A Complete Guide to Rafting in Rishikesh

Rishikesh is a beautiful town in the Himalayan foothills of Uttarakhand, India. Known for its peaceful riverbanks, spiritual atmosphere, and thrilling adventures, Rishikesh is a dream destination for travelers. Among all the activities, white-water rafting on the Ganges River is one of the most exciting and unforgettable experiences you can enjoy.

If you’re planning to try rafting for the first time or looking to experience the thrill once again, this guide covers everything you need to know.

1. Best Time for Rafting in Rishikesh

Rafting in Rishikesh is best enjoyed from March to June and from late September to December, when the river conditions and weather are perfect for adventure.

September to November: After the monsoon, the rapids are lively and the weather is pleasant.
December to February: Cooler temperatures with calmer river flow, perfect for those who prefer milder conditions.
March to June: Warmer days and thrilling rapids, ideal for adventure seekers.

Rafting is usually not available during the monsoon (June to early September) because the water levels are too high and risky.

2. Choosing the Right Rafting Stretch

Rishikesh offers different rafting stretches depending on how adventurous you want to be:

Brahmpuri to Rishikesh (9 km): A gentle stretch, ideal for beginners and families. (Grade I-II)
Shivpuri to Rishikesh (16 km): Medium-level challenge, great for those seeking some excitement. (Grade II-III)
Marine Drive to Rishikesh (24 km): Longer and more thrilling with bigger rapids. (Grade III-IV)
Kaudiyala to Rishikesh (36 km): A highly challenging stretch for experienced rafters. (Grade IV+)

Select the stretch based on your comfort, experience, and adventure level.

3. Important Safety Tips for Rafting

Adventure is fun, but staying safe is essential. Here are some key tips:

Always wear a life jacket and helmet provided by the operator.
Listen carefully to the safety instructions before starting.
Practice basic paddling techniques with your guide.
Stay calm if you fall into the water; float on your back with your feet downstream.
Avoid rafting if you have serious health problems like heart conditions or recent surgeries.

Always choose an experienced and certified rafting company to ensure proper safety standards are followed.

4. What to Bring for Your Rafting Trip

Packing light but smart will make your trip more comfortable. Here’s what you should bring:

Quick-dry clothes (avoid cotton).
Sturdy shoes like river sandals or sports shoes.
Sunscreen and sunglasses with a strap.
Waterproof camera if you want to capture the fun.
Drinking water to stay hydrated.
Change of clothes for after rafting.

Avoid carrying valuables like wallets, phones, or jewelry on the raft.

5. Rafting Cost in Rishikesh

The price for rafting varies based on the stretch you choose:

Short routes like Brahmpuri–Rishikesh usually cost around INR 800–1000 per person.
Longer and tougher routes like Marine Drive–Rishikesh or Kaudiyala–Rishikesh can go up to INR 2000–3000 per person.

Most packages include all necessary gear, guides, and transportation back from the endpoint.

6. Trusted Rafting Operators in Rishikesh

Choosing a good rafting company ensures you have a safe and memorable adventure. Here are some trusted names:

Red Chilli Adventure
Himalayan Adventure Institute
Aquaterra Adventures
Aspen Adventures

Always check if the operator has certified guides and properly maintained equipment before booking.

7. Things to Do After Rafting

Once your rafting adventure is over, Rishikesh has plenty more to offer:

Witness the beautiful Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat.
Explore the peaceful surroundings of Beatles Ashram.
Visit the iconic Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula bridges.
Join a yoga class or relax with an Ayurvedic massage.
Take short treks to Neer Garh Waterfall or Patna Waterfall for some nature time.