Henna Art in Rishikesh
Come and learn traditional Indian henna, also called mehndi, with Anju at Om Homestay. She has been doing henna for more than 20 years and she is happy to show you the patterns, step by step. No experience needed.
You can try henna art in Rishikesh at Om Homestay in Upper Tapovan, with our host Anju. She is a self-taught artist with more than 20 years of experience. Beginners are welcome. Prices and timings are not fixed on this page, so message us on WhatsApp with your date and we will tell you what is possible.
Learn Mehndi in a Friendly Homestay
Henna is a big part of Indian life. It is put on hands and feet for weddings, festivals and celebrations, and every pattern has a feel of its own. Many of our guests have seen it in photos but never tried it, and they ask us if they can learn a little during the trip.
That is what this is. It is not a big class with a lot of people. You sit with Anju, look at some traditional designs, and she guides you while you try. You can ask her anything, from how the cone is held to what the different motifs mean.
Meet Anju
Anju taught herself henna and has done it for over 20 years. She makes traditional designs and likes sharing the art with guests who are curious. She is relaxed, patient and good with beginners.
Please message us before you come so we can check her time. We do not want you to plan around a session that is not confirmed.
What You Can Expect
Traditional designs
See common Indian mehndi shapes and patterns, such as flowers, leaves, vines and fine detail lines.
Hands-on practice
Try drawing your own design with Anju beside you, not just watching someone else.
A memory to take home
Many guests say the henna on their hands is the thing they remember from Rishikesh.
How it works
Message us
Send your preferred date and how many people are coming.
Tell us about your skin
If you have sensitive skin or any allergy, say so now, before anything is applied.
Choose a style and try
Look at patterns with Anju, pick what you like and draw with her help.
Let it dry
Ask Anju how long to keep it on and how to look after it so the colour comes out dark and lasts.
Henna Art Gallery
A few photos from sessions at Om Homestay.
Traditional hand designAnju applying henna
Patterns on the feet
Small details and motifsA word about safety
Tell us about any skin problem or allergy before the session. Please stay away from “black henna” cones sold on the street. They can contain chemicals that cause bad skin reactions. Real henna is brown or orange-brown, never black on the first day.
Combine Henna With Your Stay in Rishikesh
Henna fits nicely between yoga in the morning and an evening walk to the Ganga aarti. If you are staying in Upper Tapovan, you can ask us about it when you book your room. If you like Indian food too, ask about our North Indian cooking class, also with Anju.
Henna Art in Rishikesh: FAQs
Who teaches the henna art session?
Anju, our host. She is a self-taught henna artist with more than 20 years of experience.
Is it okay for beginners?
Yes. You do not need any experience. Anju shows you the patterns and guides you step by step.
Where does the session take place?
At Om Homestay in Upper Tapovan, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. We send directions when you message us.
How much does it cost and what are the timings?
There is no fixed price on this page. Send us your date and group size on WhatsApp, and we will confirm availability, timing and charges.
I have sensitive skin. Can I still do it?
Please tell us before the session about any sensitivity or allergy, and we will talk about it. Do not use “black henna”, as it can cause allergic reactions.
Do I need to be staying at Om Homestay?
Please ask us. Availability depends on the day and on Anju’s time, so message us first.
Try Traditional Henna in Rishikesh
Send us a message with your date and we will tell you if Anju is free. It is a small, quiet and creative thing to do in Tapovan.