Rishikesh, often called the Adventure Capital of India, is a spiritual town tucked in the Himalayan foothills of Uttarakhand. While it’s renowned for yoga and serenity, river rafting in Rishikesh has put it on the global map as a hotspot for adrenaline junkies.
Each year, thousands of thrill-seekers flock to this riverside haven to experience white water rafting on the mighty Ganga River. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rafter, the rafting stretches in Rishikesh offer something for everyone—from Grade I rapids for families to Grade IV rapids for hardcore adventurers.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about river rafting in Rishikesh — including best packages, safety tips, best time to go, gear checklist, and the top rafting stretches.
🌊 Why River Rafting in Rishikesh?
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✔️ One of the safest and most scenic rafting spots in the world
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✔️ Features rapids of various difficulty levels (Grades I–IV)
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✔️ Affordable rafting and camping combo packages
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✔️ Proximity to Delhi, Dehradun, and Haridwar
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✔️ Backdrop of Himalayas and spiritual energy of Ganga
🧘 Rishikesh offers a rare blend of spiritual calm and adventurous thrill.
📅 Best Time for River Rafting in Rishikesh
| Season | Conditions | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| March–June | Warm weather, strong rapids | Peak season, ideal for all levels |
| September–November | Post-monsoon freshness | Scenic beauty & strong currents |
| December–February | Cold water, fewer crowds | Dry suits recommended; limited packages |
| Monsoon (July–August) | Closed (for safety) | Rafting banned due to strong currents |
✅ Pro Tip: Book in advance during long weekends and holidays.
🛶 Top Rafting Stretches in Rishikesh
Here are the most popular rafting stretches, listed by difficulty and length:
1. Brahmapuri to Rishikesh – Easiest (9 km)
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Grade I–II rapids
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Ideal for: Families, children, elderly
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Duration: 1–1.5 hours
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Commercial keywords: Family rafting Rishikesh, easy rafting Rishikesh
2. Shivpuri to Rishikesh – Most Popular (16 km)
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Grade II–III+ rapids like Roller Coaster, Golf Course
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Ideal for: Beginners to intermediates
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Duration: 2–2.5 hours
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Keywords: Shivpuri rafting package, rafting from Shivpuri to Rishikesh
3. Marine Drive to Rishikesh – Moderate (24 km)
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Grade III–IV rapids
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Includes thrillers like Three Blind Mice and Crossfire
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Duration: 3–4 hours
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Keywords: Marine Drive rafting Rishikesh, 24 km rafting stretch
4. Kaudiyala to Rishikesh – Advanced (35 km)
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Grade IV+ rapids like The Wall
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Ideal for: Seasoned rafters only
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Duration: 4–5 hours
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Keywords: Advanced rafting India, Kaudiyala rafting booking
💼 Popular Rafting Packages in Rishikesh
| Package | Duration | Price (Approx) | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 km (Brahmapuri) | Half-day | ₹500–₹800 | Guide, gear, transport |
| 16 km (Shivpuri) | Half-day | ₹800–₹1,200 | Guide, gear, video (optional) |
| 24 km (Marine Drive) | Full-day | ₹1,000–₹1,500 | All inclusive |
| Rafting + Camping Combo | 1N/2D | ₹1,200–₹2,500 | Tents, meals, activities |
| Luxury Rafting Tours | 2N/3D | ₹3,000–₹6,000 | Cottage stay, bonfire, rafting |
🏕️ Tip: Many local operators offer customizable rafting and camping packages with zip-lining, cliff jumping, and jungle treks.
🧯 Rafting Safety Tips You Must Follow
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✅ Always wear a certified life jacket and helmet
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✅ Choose licensed and certified river guides
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✅ Follow paddle instructions strictly
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❌ Never raft under influence of drugs or alcohol
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✅ Know the basic hand signals for communication
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✅ Stay seated, hold the T-grip on the paddle firmly
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✅ Use appropriate clothing — no sarees or loose garments
⚠️ Check weather conditions before confirming bookings, especially during early winter or post-monsoon.
🎒 What to Pack for River Rafting in Rishikesh
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Quick-dry t-shirts & shorts
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Water shoes or floaters
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Waterproof bag (for valuables)
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Sunscreen & sunglasses (with strap)
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Change of clothes
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Towel and toiletries
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Power bank & GoPro (optional)
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Personal ID proof
🏕️ Where to Stay in Rishikesh: Rafting-Friendly Options
📍 Budget Camps (₹500–₹1000 per night)
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Riverside tents with basic meals
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Ideal for college groups, solo travelers
📍 Mid-Range Eco Resorts (₹1200–₹2500)
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Adventure camps with attached washrooms
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Bonfire, zip-lining, and guided tours included
📍 Luxury Retreats (₹3000–₹8000)
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River-facing cottages, yoga retreats
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Ideal for couples, families, corporate retreats
🌄 Nearby Attractions: Laxman Jhula, Neer Garh Waterfall, Beatles Ashram, Triveni Ghat
🎯 Why Choose Rishikesh for River Rafting?
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Only place in India offering commercial white-water rafting with multiple stretch options
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Combines nature, culture, and thrill
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Affordable for all budgets
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Accessible by road, train, and air
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Thriving adventure tourism ecosystem
✨ Combine rafting with yoga retreats, café hopping, bungee jumping, or spiritual tours.
🚗 How to Reach Rishikesh
| Mode | Details |
|---|---|
| By Road | 6-hour drive from Delhi; regular Volvo buses available |
| By Train | Nearest station: Haridwar (20 km) |
| By Air | Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (35 km away) |
📋 Do’s and Don’ts for Rafting in Rishikesh
✅ Do’s:
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Listen to your instructor carefully
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Check your gear before the ride
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Eat light before rafting
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Respect the river — it’s sacred to locals
❌ Don’ts:
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Don’t remove life jackets or helmets during the ride
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Don’t panic if you fall overboard—float on your back
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Don’t litter in the Ganges
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Don’t attempt higher-grade rapids without experience
🤝 Trusted Operators for Rafting in Rishikesh
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Red Chilli Adventure – Known for safety standards
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Jumpin Heights – Offers rafting + bungee combo
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Outbounds Adventure – Group-friendly packages
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Aspen Adventures – Luxury stays + guided rafting
🧾 Make sure your operator is certified by Uttarakhand Tourism and trained in first-aid and rescue.
✨ Conclusion: Ready for the Ride of a Lifetime?
River rafting in Rishikesh is more than an adventure—it’s a soul-stirring journey through the sacred Ganges surrounded by the foothills of the Himalayas. Whether you’re a first-time rafter or an experienced thrill-seeker, there’s a stretch and a package that fits your adrenaline appetite.
🧭 Ready to paddle into the rapids? Book your rafting package now and experience the thrill of Ganga like never before.
