The adventure hub of India is located in Uttarakhand. One of India’s most famous tourist destinations. Rishikesh is famous for offering extreme adventure sports like Rishikesh rafting, bungee jumping, and others, divine spirituality, breathtaking natural landscapes, and ultimate peace.
Often referred to as the world’s Yoga capital, rafting in Rishikesh has gained immense popularity worldwide, not only for offering world-class adventure sports for adventure addicts and thrill seekers but also for exceptional yoga and meditation sessions for spiritual wellness and attaining emotional balance, an amazing blend of thrill and rejuvenating mind and body.
Who wouldn’t want to challenge themselves, overcome their fears, and feel a sense of achievement while engaging in one of the most popular adventure activities in Rishikesh: Rishikesh River Rafting?
Indulge in rafting in Rishikesh on the majestic river Ganges, flowing through Rishikesh, stunning backdrops of the magnificent Himalayas, refreshing hills and valleys that enhance the lush greenery, and beautiful waterfalls and streams that add to the scenic charm of Rishikesh. Here’s a complete guide to Rishikesh rafting—everything you need to know before going for a rafting experience.
Why is Rishikesh the best destination for River Rafting?
The unique experience of rafting on the gorgeous river Ganges and the visually appealing natural surroundings, including the Himalayas, lush greenery, and glimpses of ancient temples and ghats, offer you a unique location and experience.
Let’s learn more about why to visit Rishikesh for Rafting.
Easy Accessibility
Well-connected by road, rail, and air from Delhi, Dehradun, Haridwar, and Chandigarh.Convenient travel options from all major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata.
Stunning Natural Beauty
The rafting journey offers breathtaking Himalayan views, lush greenery, and serene riverbanks. Along with this, Rishikesh also offers Thrilling Adventure Activities to try, such as cliff jumping, ziplining, and camping, which add extra thrill to your experience.
High Safety Standards
- Certified and licensed rafting guides.
- High-quality gear (helmets, life jackets, paddles, wetsuits).
- Strict safety protocols for beginners and advanced rafters.
Spiritual Touch
River rafting on the sacred river Ganges will make you connect instantly to the divine power and sense a spiritual energy that is enough to rejuvenate your body and soul. To deepen the experience, some Affordable Rishikesh Travel Packages also include yoga and meditation sessions along the riverbanks.
Holy Ganges River: River rafting on the sacred river Ganges will make you connect instantly to the divine power and sense a spiritual energy that is enough to rejuvenate your body and soul.
Rapids for Every Skill Level
- Starting from Grade I (easy, beginner-friendly) to Grade V (extreme, professional level).
- rafting in Rishikesh has it all. This makes it perfect for first-time rafters, families, backpackers, and hardcore adventure seekers. If you’re staying longer, you can also experience the Best Thrilling trail through our trekking packages, including Kedarkantha and Nag Tibba, which combine mountain adventure with scenic beauty.
Popular Rafting Routes in Rishikesh
Rishikesh is considered the river rafting capital of India, offering stretches of the mighty Ganga with rapids that range from easy to extreme. Each rafting route has its own level of difficulty, scenic views, and thrill factor, making it a paradise for both beginners and seasoned adventure seekers. Below are the most popular river rafting routes in Rishikesh:
Brahmpuri to Rishikesh
River Rafting for Beginners: For people who want a beginner-friendly river rafting experience in Rishikesh, the Brahmpuri to Rishikesh river rafting is the one you should go for. It is easy and suitable for first-timers.
Grade I & II Rapids: While on your Brahmpuri to Rishikesh river rafting journey, experience the river Ganges’ mild waves with grade I & II level rapids, ideal for those wanting calming adventures and who are new to this sport.
Shortest Rafting Route: If you’re more into shorter rafting adventures, the Brahmpuri to Rishikesh is the shortest rafting route in Rishikesh, offering exciting, occasional splashes of the Ganges River with stunning views around you.
Cost-effective River Rafting: Due to the shortest route, the Brahmpuri to Rishikesh river rafting is for budget-conscious individuals and is appropriate for students and backpackers with no compromise on adventure.
Rafting from Bhrahampuri to Rishikesh (Beginner-Friendly)
- Distance: 9 km | Duration: 1–1.5 hrs
- Rapids: Grade I–II
- Suitable for: Beginners, families, children (14+), elderly
- Best time: Mid-September to June
Shivpuri to Rishikesh
Moderate-Level River Rafting: If you’re looking for a moderate-level river rafting experience in Rishikesh, Shivpuri to Rishikesh river rafting you can go for, which offers great adventure.
Major Rapids: In the Shivpuri to Rishikesh river rafting experience, you’ll experience different types of major rapids like double trouble, return to sender, roller coaster, and golf course.
Grade II & III: The grades in this rafting route are more adventurous than the Brahmpuri rafting route. This river rafting experience will be neither too easy nor too difficult.
16-kilometre Stretch: The Shivpuri to Rishikesh river rafting demands sufficient physical strength due to its long stretch, which keeps increasing your excitement level.
Rafting from Shivpuri to Rishikesh (Moderate)
- Distance: 16 km | Duration: 2–2.5 hrs
- Rapids: Grade II–III (Double Trouble, Roller Coaster, Golf Course)
- Suitable for: Adventurers with good stamina
- Best time: Late September to June
Marine Drive to Rishikesh
River rafting for the experienced: The Marine Drive to Rishikesh River rafting is a moderate to difficult level of river rafting in Rishikesh, which is not suitable for beginners or first-timers.
Total 12 Rapids: The participants get to experience a total of 12 rapids, including major and minor ones that keep increasing their excitement every minute. Rapids such as crossfire, black money, three blind mice, and a golf course.
Grade II & III: The Marine Drive to Rishikesh river rafting offers you grades II and III rapids on the roaring Ganges river while giving you the best possible backdrops for an overall amazing experience.
26-kilometre stretch: The river rafting from Marine Drive to Rishikesh is physically demanding and needs a proper fitness level, as this long stretch may leave you tired if you’re not fit enough.
River Rafting from Marine Drive to Rishikesh (Intermediate to Difficult)
- Distance: 26 km
- Duration: 4 hrs
- Rapids: Grade II–III (Crossfire, Black Money, Three Blind Mice)
- Suitable for: Fit individuals with prior rafting experience
- Best time: October to May
Byasi to Rishikesh
Challenging river rafting: 35 kilometres from Rishikesh, Byasi to Rishikesh offers one of the most challenging Ganges river rafting experiences in Rishikesh, as it is a 6-7 hour-long river rafting for extreme adventure lovers, not for beginners or first-timers.
12 Rapids: Participants get to experience a total of 12 rapids that give them an adrenaline rush and extreme thrill. The different rapids on the Byasi to Rishikesh rafting route include The Wall, Eddy Whirlpool, and Daniel’s Dip.
Grade III & IV: The Grade III & IV rapids provide a thrilling adventure with increased difficulty
35-kilometre stretch: This 35-kilometre-long stretch is extremely challenging physically and mentally and is strictly meant only for experienced rafters and not suitable for beginners, kids, the elderly, and soft-hearted individuals
River Rafting from Byasi to Rishikesh (Hardcore Adventure)
- Distance: 35 km
- Duration: 6–7 hrs
- Rapids: Grade III–IV (The Wall, Eddy Whirlpool, Daniel’s Dip)
- Suitable for: Experienced rafting enthusiasts
- Best time: September to May
Kaudiyala to Rishikesh
For experienced rafters: The river rafting from Kaudiyala to Rishikesh is meant just for experienced rafters, as this route provides the most difficult challenges that end up offering you a heart-pumping adventure, not for weak-hearted people.
Rishikesh’s longest rafting route: The Kaudiyala to Rishikesh is a 36-kilometre-long stretch and is the longest river rafting route in Rishikesh, which offers adventure junkies the most thrilling experience to be remembered forever.
The toughest rafting: Undoubtedly, being the longest river rafting route, this becomes the most difficult one too. So you should be prepared for every challenge it offers.
Total 14 Rapids: In the Kaudiyala to Rishikesh river rafting journey, you experience the most rapids and one of the most exciting and difficult in the world. Also, the grades go up to IV, like Hilton, three blind mice and more.
River Rafting from Kaudiyala to Rishikesh (Longest & Most Challenging)
- Distance: 36 km
- Duration: 6–7 hrs
- Rapids: Grade I–IV (Hilton, Three Blind Mice, Golf Course)
- Suitable for: Physically fit, experienced rafters
- Best time: Mid-October to Mid-May
How to Prepare for River Rafting in Rishikesh
How to Prepare for River Rafting in Rishikesh
Whether you’re rafting with family, friends, a partner, or on your own, keeping a few key tips in mind can ensure a smooth, safe, and enjoyable experience.
Physical Preparation
Improve stamina with regular workouts, cardio, and strength exercises.
Mental Preparation
like yoga and meditation can help build calmness, confidence, and focus.
What to wear for Rishikesh Rafting
What to wear for Rishikesh Rafting
Clothing: Opt for quick-drying clothes and avoid cotton, as it absorbs moisture and takes longer to dry, which can leave you feeling cold.
Footwear: Lightweight and quick-drying shoes and sports sandals or shoes that don’t absorb water. Avoid wearing heels or flip-flops.
Safety Tips for River Rafting in Rishikesh
Safety Tips for River Rafting in Rishikesh
Focus on the Rafting Guide: Pay attention to your rafting guide’s instructions to ensure safety and avoid any sort of risk.
Safety Measures: Memorise emergency procedures given by your rafting guide to stay calm and positive during such situations and overcome risks.
Safety Gear: Wear your safety gear or equipment properly, and let your rafting guide check if it is properly fitted for maintaining safety during your river rafting session.
Protect your Skin: Don’t forget to apply sunscreen with a good amount of SPF to protect your skin from harmful UV rays and sunburn.
Stay Hydrated: It is essential to stay hydrated throughout your Ganges river rafting journey, and carry water bottles to avoid weakness or uneasiness.
So, follow the above-mentioned River rafting safety tips in Rishikesh and enjoy an amazing time in Rishikesh!
Who Can Go Rafting in Rishikesh?
There are certain things to keep in mind for rafting in Rishikesh for a more comfortable and pleasant experience.
Age: Children over 14 years old without any medical conditions that could limit their rafting experience are eligible for river rafting in Rishikesh, based on the difficulty level appropriate for their age.
Medical Conditions: People suffering from the following kinds of medical conditions must avoid River Rafting:
- Respiratory Issues
- High blood pressure
- Severe neck or back problems
- Epilepsy
- Pregnancy
- Recent surgery or injury
- Severe motion sickness
Other health conditions: People with respiratory or heart health conditions or any other medical issue that may affect their river rafting journey must avoid river rafting in Rishikesh.
Doctor’s consultation: It is necessary to consult your doctor before taking part in Rishikesh river rafting for a safe and enjoyable river rafting experience.
Other Adventure Activities in Rishikesh
Rishikesh is not only famous for the Ganges river rafting but also offers several other adventurous activities like:
- Bungee Jumping
- Camping in Rishikesh
- Giant Swing
- Zip Lining
- Reverse Bungee
- Trekking in Rishikesh
Wildlife safari that will double your excitement and will make every minute in Rishikesh worth remembering.
Conclusion
So what are you waiting for? Get ready for the thrill of your life! Plan your unforgettable Rishikesh getaway with friends and family!
Book your customizable Uttarakhand tour package with Offbeat Vacation and enjoy a hassle-free experience with exclusive discounts and unbeatable offers.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Offbeat Vacation ensures a memorable trip to Rishikesh with personalised Rishikesh itineraries and the best deals. Don’t miss out—reserve your spot now and make the most of your Rishikesh adventure.
FAQs
What is the age limit for River rafting in Rishikesh?
The age limit for River Rafting in Rishikesh should be above 14 years. If you’re below 14 years, you must not attempt river rafting for safety purposes. The maximum age limit for river rafting in Rishikesh is 60 years. Subject to the rafting grades, rapids and level of difficulty.
Who can I go rafting with?
People with good health conditions with no health issues that will hamper the rafting experience, like heart and high blood pressure patients, respiratory issues, pregnant women, patients with neurological disorders, etc. However, it is advised to confirm with the river rafting guide before attempting the river rafting adventure.
Is River Rafting dangerous?
Rishikesh River Rafting is an amazing and safe experience with several rapids that add to the adventure. Like any other adventurous sport, rafting also comes with its risks, which depend on the kind of rapids and their grades. To reduce the risk, you are advised to follow the instructions given by the trained rafting staff and stick to the age and health limits.
Can I go rafting if I don’t know how to swim?
You won’t miss out on this exciting outdoor adventure since you will be secured with life jackets that will help you float on water in the event of a fall in the Ganges River.
What are the best months for rafting in Rishikesh?
If you’re planning to go rafting in Rishikesh, September to early May is the best time for rafting in Rishikesh, as the weather is neither too chilly nor too hot. Rafting can be done in winter, but the water is icy cold, which does not suit everyone.
What should I carry for River Rafting in Rishikesh?
Carry some extra sets of clothes, towels, quick-drying clothes, sunglasses, and a waterproof pouch for River Rafting in Rishikesh.
What are the different rapid grades in Rishikesh?
Rapids play a major role in river rafting; the unpredictable flow of water in rapids makes your rafting experience more thrilling and adventurous. The more the rapids, the more fun and excitement. Class III- IV level rapids are pretty dangerous and tough. In Brahmpuri, 9 km rafting, one has to cross 3 rapids in total; at Shivpuri, 16 km rafting, the number of rapids increases to 8. Marine Drive 26 km river rafting has 12 rapids to cross.
Can first-timers or beginners attempt rafting?
Yes, it is fine for a beginner or a first-timer to attempt River Rafting, as there is no advanced or specific training involved. The participants need to just carefully listen to the rafting guide’s instructions and follow them appropriately.
What should I wear for Rishikesh’s river rafting?
The weather and the time of the year matter a lot in choosing what to wear. As in winter, a comfortable wetsuit would be the best option to wear. In summer, try to wear dry or waterproof clothes; that would save you from being wet for long hours.
How far is Shivpuri from Rishikesh?
Shivpuri is around 19 kilometres from Rishikesh and is easily accessible by road. The Shivpuri to Rishikesh rafting stretch is 6 kilometres.
What is the price of River Rafting in Rishikesh?
The price ranges somewhere between 1200 and 2000, depending on the package and the adventure tour operators you choose.
Can we do River Rafting in groups?
Yes, river rafting in Rishikesh can be done in groups, and a maximum of 8 people are allowed in a raft.
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