Rafting in Rishikesh

Rishikesh, a vibrant town in Uttarakhand, India, is a top spot for rafting adventures. Set along the holy Ganga River in the heart of “Dev Bhoomi” (Land of the Gods), it’s surrounded by green hills and a peaceful vibe. Perfect for thrill-seekers, families, or friends, Rishikesh offers exciting white-water rafting for all levels. FeelTourism’s Rishikesh rafting tour packages make your trip simple, safe, and full of fun, letting you enjoy the rush of the river and the beauty of this spiritual town.

Rishikesh, located in Uttarakhand, India, is a world-famous destination for white-water rafting on the Ganges River. Situated at 372 meters in the Himalayan foothills, this vibrant town combines thrilling rapids with stunning mountain scenery, earning its title as the Yoga Capital of the World and a top adventure hub. Rafting in Rishikesh offers experiences for all skill levels, from gentle Grade I waves to intense Grade IV challenges, set against lush forests and towering peaks. This guide covers why to choose Rishikesh for rafting, the best time to visit, how to reach, top rafting stretches and activities, a 2-day itinerary, local culture, shopping, nearby destinations, and practical tips for an unforgettable adventure.

Top Rafting Stretches and Activities

Brahmpuri 9 km River Rafting Stretch

• Stretch: 9 km river rafting trip from Brahmpuri (starting point) to Nim Beach (ending point)
• Cost: ₹600 per person
• Entry Fee: ₹20 per person (extra)
• Rafting Time: First trip starts at 8:00 AM
• Time Taken: 1 to 1.5 hours

Shivpuri 16 km River Rafting Stretch

• Stretch: 16 km river rafting trip from Shivpuri (starting point) to Nim Beach (ending point)
• Cost: ₹1,000 per person
• Entry Fee: ₹20 per person (extra)
• Rafting Time: First trip starts at 8:00 AM
• Grade: Grade II
• Time Taken: 2 to 3.5 hours

Marine Drive 27 km River Rafting Stretch

• Stretch: 27 km river rafting trip from Marine Drive (starting point) to Nim Beach (ending point)
• Cost: ₹1,500 per person
• Entry Fee: ₹20 per person (extra)
• Rafting Time: First trip starts at 8:00 AM
• Time Taken: 3 to 4.5 hours

Kaudiyala 34 km River Rafting Stretch

• Stretch: 34 km river rafting trip from Kaudiyala (starting point) to Nim Beach (ending point)
• Cost: ₹2,500 per person
• Entry Fee: ₹20 per person (extra)
• Rafting Time: First trip starts at 8:00 AM
• Grade: Grade III, Grade IV, Grade V
• Time Taken: 5 to 7 hours

Different Grades of Rapids
Rapids are classified from Grade I to VI based on their difficulty and maneuverability. In Rishikesh, rapids go up to Grade V only. People who are not strong swimmers should avoid rafting on rapids of Grade III or higher.

• Grade I Rapids: Easiest to navigate, with mild currents and no risk.
• Grade II Rapids: Feature obstacles or rocks with clear passages and easy maneuvering.
• Grade III Rapids: Technical, requiring good judgment from the guide.
• Grade IV Rapids: Thrilling and tricky, with powerful waves that can topple the raft.
• Grade V Rapids: Dangerous, with strong waves that may overturn the raft. Only experienced rafters should attempt.
• Grade VI Rapids: Extremely difficult and considered suicidal. Fortunately, Rishikesh has none.

River Rafting Inclusions

• Transportation from the Tapovan office to the rafting starting point and back from the endpoint.
• All necessary rafting gear: rafts, life jackets, helmets, dry bags, paddles, and services of trained guides.
• Activities: River rafting, cliff jumping, and body surfing.

River Rafting Exclusions

• Personal expenses.
• Transportation beyond the trip route or accommodation.
• Emergency evacuation, hospitalization, medical, or rescue expenses.
• Note: Heavyweight individuals and alcohol consumption are strictly prohibited.

Rishikesh Rafting Season

• December to February: Open for all rafting sections.
• March to May: Open and the best season for rafting.
• June: Open for 9 km and 16 km sections only.
• July to August: Closed for all rafting due to monsoon.
• September to November: Open for all sections and the best season for rafting.

River Rafting in Rishikesh Tour Packages
River rafting is safe and enjoyable for families and holidaymakers of all ages. Rafts are designed for safety with separately inflatable compartments and are virtually unsinkable. Each traveler is provided with a life jacket, helmet, and paddle. Rafting in Rishikesh is thrilling most of the year, except during the monsoon when high water levels and strong currents make it dangerous.

Rafting Package Details

Day Rafting in Rishikesh
We offer the safest and most exciting rafting experience in Rishikesh, with options from Grade I to Grade IV rapids (not all grades are available in all seasons). The Ganges rapids in Rishikesh are among the most thrilling yet safest in the world. Whether you’re new to rafting or a veteran, we have something for you. You don’t need to be a swimmer to enjoy the thrill, as our expert team ensures safety. Experience the power of the Ganges with our high-quality rafts and friendly, trained instructors.

Clubhouse to Nim Beach (9 km): ₹620 per person

• Grade: Grade II
• Duration: About 1 hour on the river
• Rapids: Jail No Bail (Grade II+), Double Trouble (Grade II), Hilton (Grade II)
• Details: Takes 25 minutes to drive to the starting point, plus 30–45 minutes for preparation, raft inflation, and safety briefing. The trip ends just after Nim Beach, with a 5-minute drive back to the office.
• Includes: Transport to Clubhouse, tea or soft drinks, rafting with professional guides, and world-class equipment.
• Eligibility: Anyone above 14 years, no swimming skills required.
• Trip Duration: 2 hours of adventure and fun.

Shivpuri to Nim Beach (16 km): ₹1,020 per person

• Grade: Grade III
• Duration: About 2 hours on the river
• Rapids: Roller Coaster (III+), Golf Course (III+), Clubhouse (III)
• Details: Takes 30–60 minutes to drive to the starting point, plus 30 minutes for preparation and safety briefing. The trip ends at Nim Beach, with a 5-minute drive back to the office.
• Includes: Transport to Shivpuri, tea or soft drinks, rafting with professional guides, and world-class equipment.
• Eligibility: Anyone above 18 years, no swimming skills required.
• Trip Duration: 3 hours of adventure and fun.

Marine Drive to Nim Beach (24 km): ₹1,520 per person

• Grade: Grade III, III+
• Duration: 3–4 hours on the river
• Rapids: Three Blind Mice (III), Cross Fire (III), Roller Coaster (III+), Golf Course (III+), Clubhouse (III)
• Details: Takes 45–60 minutes to drive to the starting point, plus time for safety briefing and gear preparation. The trip ends at Nim Beach, with a 5-minute drive back to the office.
• Includes: Transport to Marine Drive, rafting with professional guides, and world-class equipment.
• Eligibility: Teenagers and adults seeking an ultimate river adventure.
• Trip Duration: 4–5 hours of adventure and fun.

Kaudiyala to Nim Beach (Full Day Rafting, 34 km): ₹2,520 per person

• Grade: Grade III, III+, IV
• Duration: 4–5 hours on the river
• Rapids: Daniel’s Dip (III+), The Wall (IV), Three Blind Mice (III+), Cross Fire (III), Roller Coaster (III+), Golf Course (III+), Clubhouse (III)
• Details: Takes 1 hour to drive to the starting point, plus 30 minutes for preparation and safety briefing. The trip ends just before Laxman Jhula, with a 5-minute drive back to the office. The Wall rapid may flip the raft, but safety gear and guides ensure it’s exciting, not dangerous.
• Includes: Transport to Kaudiyala, rafting with professional guides, and world-class equipment.
• Eligibility: Teenagers and adults seeking an ultimate river adventure.
• Trip Duration: Full day of adventure and fun.
• Note: All trips include safety support with a highly trained team.

Why Choose Rishikesh for Rafting?

Rishikesh is a premier spot for white-water rafting, drawing adventure seekers with its powerful Ganges River rapids and scenic Himalayan backdrop. The river offers diverse stretches, from beginner-friendly Brahmpuri to expert-level Kaudiyala, ensuring options for families, first-timers, and seasoned rafters. Activities like cliff jumping and body surfing add extra thrills, while certified guides and safety gear make it accessible for non-swimmers. Rishikesh’s proximity to Delhi (250 km, 6–7 hours) and Dehradun (45 km, 1 hour) makes it a convenient weekend getaway. Beyond rafting, the town’s spiritual vibe, with ashrams, temples, and the Ganga Aarti, offers a unique blend of adrenaline and culture, setting it apart from other rafting destinations like Manali or Ladakh.

Is Rafting in Rishikesh Open?
Rishikesh river rafting is open from September to June 30 each year and closed during the monsoon (July–August) for safety due to high water levels. March to June is the best time for rafting, as the cool splash of the Ganges is refreshing in summer. Rishikesh gears up after its annual monsoon break to welcome adventure enthusiasts.

Rishikesh Rafting Opening
Rafting in Rishikesh is currently open from September to June. Adventure lovers can look forward to thrilling sessions. After the monsoon break, Rishikesh, India’s top destination for white-water rafting, welcomes visitors for fun and relaxation.

River Rafting in Rishikesh Booking

Ready for a fun weekend trip? Come to Rishikesh with FeelTourism for an awesome river rafting adventure! Rishikesh sits at the bottom of the big Himalayas and has exciting rafting on the Ganges River. No need to know how to raft or swim—our friendly guides keep you safe and make it super fun!

With FeelTourism, you get safe rafting trips, like the cool Marine Drive route, with all the gear you need. Paddle through fast waters, see beautiful mountains, and feel the thrill of the Ganges. It’s perfect for beginners or anyone who loves adventure!

There’s more to do, too! Try bungee jumping, cliff jumping, or camping by the river with FeelTourism. Want to relax? Visit nearby temples or ashrams for some calm vibes. People from India and all over the world love Rishikesh, and we make your trip easy and happy.

Book with FeelTourism today and jump into a fun, exciting adventure in Rishikesh! Let’s make memories full of laughs and thrills!

Rishikesh Rafting Information
Rishikesh, the adventure capital of India, is famous for white-water rafting and its spiritual vibe as the yoga capital of the world. At 372 meters altitude in the lower Himalayas, the Ganges flows through Rishikesh with raging beauty, creating some of India’s most famous rapids. Adventure enthusiasts flock here for rafting, with many operators offering trips across various river sections based on difficulty, length, and price. Plan your trip with care, as adventure sports require preparation.

Rishikesh Rafting Minimum Age

The minimum age for river rafting in Rishikesh is 12 years for the 9 km Brahmpuri stretch (Grade I-II rapids), ideal for kids and beginners. For tougher stretches like Shivpuri (16 km) or Kaudiyala (34 km) with Grade III-IV rapids, the minimum age is 14 years.

Things to Do in Rishikesh
As India’s adventure capital, Rishikesh offers a vibrant outdoor and spiritual experience. Here are some activities to try:

• Bungee Jumping: An 80-meter platform over the river for thrill-seekers.
• Camping by the River: Relax by the Ganges with a bonfire and sandy beaches.
• Cliff Jumping and Flying Fox: Jump into the Ganges from cliffs or zip down a harness.
• Trekking: Explore easy-to-challenging hiking trails around Rishikesh.
• Rock Climbing and Rappelling: Guided activities for adventure lovers.
• Visiting Ashrams: Tour ashrams and temples along the river for a calming experience.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for rafting in Rishikesh is September to June, when river conditions and weather are ideal:

• Spring (March–May): 15–30°C, with moderate river flow (100–150 cumecs), perfect for Grade II–III+ rapids and clear Himalayan views. Ideal for beginners and intermediates.

• Autumn (September–November): 10–25°C, offering strong currents for thrilling rafting and pleasant weather for post-raft activities.

• Winter (December–February): 5–20°C, with colder water but manageable for shorter trips like Brahmpuri or Shivpuri. Sunny days enhance scenery.

• Monsoon (July–August): Rafting is closed due to high water levels (up to 300 cumecs) and safety risks from recent floods in areas like Uttarkashi (August 2025).
  Visit midweek or in September–October or March–April to avoid crowds, especially during holidays like Holi or Diwali, when Tapovan and Shivpuri roads get busy.

How to Reach Rishikesh

Rishikesh is well-connected by air, rail, and road, with Dehradun as the nearest hub:

• By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (20 km, 45 minutes), offers daily flights from Delhi (45 minutes), Mumbai, and other cities. Taxis (INR 800–1,200) or shared cabs (INR 200–300) connect to Rishikesh.

• By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (3 km from Tapovan) has limited connectivity, so Haridwar Railway Station (25 km, 45 minutes) is preferred, with trains from Delhi (4–6 hours, Shatabdi Express), Mumbai, and Kolkata. From Haridwar, take a taxi (INR 600–1,000) or Uttarakhand Transport Corporation bus (INR 50–100).

• By Road:

  • From Delhi (250 km, 6–7 hours): Drive via Meerut and Haridwar on NH334. Uttarakhand Transport Corporation buses or private Volvos (INR 400–800) run from Delhi’s ISBT Kashmiri Gate to Rishikesh’s ISBT. Taxis cost INR 3,000–4,500.

  • From Dehradun (45 km, 1 hour): Take NH7. Buses (INR 50–100) or taxis (INR 800–1,200).

  • From Haridwar (25 km, 45 minutes): Shared cabs (INR 100–150) or taxis (INR 500–800).

• Local Transport: Use auto-rickshaws (INR 20–50) in Rishikesh for Tapovan, Laxman Jhula, or Shivpuri. Rafting operators provide transport (vans or jeeps) to starting points like Brahmpuri or Kaudiyala (15–40 km). Walking is ideal for nearby areas like Ram Jhula.

Local Culture and Cuisine

Rishikesh blends Garhwali traditions with its spiritual identity as the Yoga Capital. The Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat or Parmarth Niketan (6:00–7:00 PM) features lamps, chants, and river worship, drawing crowds. Ashrams like Parmarth Niketan offer yoga and meditation, reflecting the town’s spiritual heritage. Local cuisine includes vegetarian Garhwali dishes like Phaanu (lentil stew), Kafuli (spinach curry), Mandua Ki Roti (finger millet bread), and Kheer, served at clean eateries. Festivals like Basant Panchami (February) showcase Garhwali folk dances (Jagar, Chholiya). Respect local norms by dressing modestly at temples and avoiding alcohol, as Rishikesh is a dry zone.

Shopping in Rishikesh

Markets in Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula offer adventure-inspired and spiritual souvenirs:

• Rudraksha Beads: Used for prayer (INR 100–500).

• Handwoven Scarves: Cotton or wool by local artisans (INR 200–1,000).

• Organic Products: Ganges-inspired soaps, herbal teas, honey (INR 150–400).

• Adventure Gear: Waterproof bags or hats (INR 300–800).
  Bargain politely, as prices may be higher for tourists. Carry cash, as card payments are limited outside main markets.

Suggested 2-Day Itinerary

This 2-day plan starts from Delhi or Dehradun, focusing on rafting and cultural exploration, using Rishikesh or Shivpuri as a base with budget or mid-range accommodation.

Day 1: Rafting and Spiritual Sights

• Morning: Depart Delhi (midnight, 6–7 hours) or Dehradun (6:00 AM, 1 hour) to reach Rishikesh by 7:00–8:00 AM. Check into a budget or mid-range guesthouse in Tapovan or Laxman Jhula (INR 1,500–5,000). Have breakfast (e.g., parathas, fruits) at a clean eatery. Visit a rafting operator’s office in Tapovan (8:30 AM) for a safety briefing and gear setup (life jackets, helmets).

• Afternoon: Raft from Shivpuri to Nim Beach (16 km, Grade II–III+, 9:00 AM–12:00 PM, INR 1,000–1,200). Navigate rapids like Roller Coaster and try cliff jumping. Return to Rishikesh for lunch at a vegetarian eatery (e.g., Kafuli, INR 100–200). Explore Parmarth Niketan ashram (2:00–3:30 PM) for a meditation session or garden walk.

• Evening: Attend the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat (6:00–7:00 PM). Browse Laxman Jhula market for Rudraksha beads or handwoven scarves (7:30–8:30 PM). Dine on Garhwali dishes like Phaanu. Overnight in Rishikesh.

Day 2: Advanced Rafting and Nearby Exploration

• Morning: After breakfast (7:00 AM), head to Marine Drive for a longer rafting trip to Nim Beach (24–26 km, Grade III–III+, 8:00 AM–12:00 PM, INR 1,500–2,000). Tackle rapids like Three Blind Mice and enjoy body surfing. Return to Rishikesh for lunch (12:30–1:30 PM).

• Afternoon: Visit Neer Garh Waterfall (4 km trek, 2:00–4:00 PM, INR 300 with a guide) for a scenic hike or relax at Ram Jhula with Himalayan views.

• Evening: Optionally, drive to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple (30 km, 1 hour, 4:30–6:00 PM) for a spiritual stop. Depart for Delhi (6:30 PM, 6–7 hours) or Dehradun (1 hour) by taxi or bus, or stay another night in Rishikesh.

Nearby Destinations to Explore

• Haridwar (25 km, 45 minutes): A spiritual city with Har Ki Pauri and Ganga Aarti.

• Dehradun (45 km, 1 hour): Offers Robber’s Cave, Sahastradhara, and urban markets.

• Neelkanth Mahadev Temple (30 km, 1 hour): A Hindu temple in a forested hill, tied to Lord Shiva.

• Dhanaulti (70–100 km, 2–3 hours): A quiet hill station with Eco Park and Surkanda Devi Temple.

• Devprayag (70 km, 2 hours): The confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers, a spiritual site.

Travel Tips

• Booking: Reserve rafting trips 1–2 weeks in advance via Uttarakhand Tourism-certified operators (online or WhatsApp, 40% advance typical), especially during peak seasons (March–May, September–November). Book accommodation (INR 1,500–5,000) early for Tapovan or Shivpuri.

• What to Bring: Pack quick-drying clothes (shorts, T-shirts), sandals, sunglasses with straps, sunscreen, and a waterproof bag for rafting. Carry warm layers for evenings, water, snacks (biscuits, energy bars), and cash (INR 2,000–5,000), as ATMs are limited outside Tapovan.

• Safety: Wear life jackets and helmets at all times during rafting. Follow guides’ instructions for rapids, cliff jumping, or emergencies (e.g., raft capsize). Non-swimmers are safe with gear. Inform operators of medical conditions (e.g., heart issues). Avoid rafting if pregnant, over 100 kg, or under the influence.

• Photography: Avoid personal cameras during rafting for safety; opt for professional photography (INR 500–1,000, if offered). Use cameras for Ganga Aarti or market shots.

• Accessibility: Rafting involves uneven terrain at entry/exit points, challenging for those with mobility issues. Laxman Jhula and Triveni Ghat are more accessible but require walking.

• Crowds: Start rafting early (7–8 AM) to avoid traffic on Tapovan–Shivpuri roads. Book midweek to dodge peak-season crowds.

• Health: Stay hydrated during rafting; carry non-drowsy motion sickness medication for drives. Avoid street food if sensitive to stomach issues.

• Connectivity: Mobile networks (Airtel, Jio) work in Rishikesh, but signals may weaken in remote areas like Kaudiyala. Inform family of travel plans.