Rafting In Rishikesh: The Ultimate Guide Before Braving The Waves Of The Ganges

It's best to visit Rishikesh post-monsoon, between September to November and then from February to June. Winter months are to be especially avoided since the low temperature would not let you have a proper rafting experience. However, February to May is considered the best time to do rafting in Rishikesh, even though, the rafting remains open throughout the year except for the monsoon season, which starts mid-June and lasts till September.

The stretch from Brahmapuri to Rishikesh is suitable for rafting for people of all ages, considering the journey isn't as bumpy in comparison to other stretches. For those who are trying to raft for the first time or are afraid of water, white water rafting in Rishikesh will be enjoyable from Brahmapuri To Rishikesh and is pretty safe too! 

Length: 9 kilometres

Duration: 1.5 hours

If you are a rafting amateur who doesn't have much experience with rafting before, then you might want to skip this one. This stretch is only for the experienced. The long stretch is not only exhausting but also difficult. It is a test of the rafters' strength, determination, and skill so don't take it lightly. The Wall, one of the rapids on this stretch is regarded as one of the world's most difficult rapids so think twice before braving the waves.

Length: 34 kilometres

Duration: 8 hours

This is of intermediate difficulty so beginners can rejoice. The stretch, however, includes fourteen rapids (fast-flowing and turbulent sections of the river). The fact that the grade III rapids come one after the other makes it difficult. However, after the difficult section, there is a long stretch of less strenuous rafting. This gives the rafters plenty of time to unwind and take in the scenery.

Length: 24 kilometres

Duration: 4.5 hours

The stretch from Shivpuri to Rishikesh is of intermediate difficulty level and is a perfect combination of thrill and pleasure for rafters. The rapid waves can cause the rafters to skip a beat time and again so some caution would be nice. This stretch is not recommended for the faint hearted or those with no swimming ability,  so plan your visit accordingly.

Length: 16 kilometres

Duration: 3.5 hours

Red Chilli Adventure organises regular rafting trips in Rishikesh. Their itinerary includes driving down to Shivpuri to raft down to NIM beach and also includes body surfing and cliff jumping. Their jeep then drives you back to their office on Laxman Jhula Road which is also the meeting point for the start of the journey.

Price: Starting at INR 1,500 per person

White World Expeditions offers rafting trips for almost all the stretches. You will be accompanied by an experienced and licensed river guide on the river. Their trips are mostly recommended for families and for beginners too. They also have kayaking, mountain biking, trekking and many other activities.

 Price: Starting at INR 750 per person

Outbound Adventure offers a one-day rafting trip which includes rafting from Marine Drive to NIM Beach, a 24 km stretch for around six hours to reach Laxman Jhula, which is the most famous and one of the peaceful places in Rishikesh. They have other offers also covering other famous stretched so make sure you check their website to get a complete idea before booking your adventure.

Price: INR 1,500 for 24 kms

Paddle India like other operators also offers group packages (costing around 1NR 4,000 for four people) and has different packages depending on the stretch you want to cover. Their Kaudiyala package also includes lunch, pick and drop from the meeting point facilities. Apart from instructors, they also deploy professional kayakers to ensure maximum safety for the rafters which is a huge plus.

Price: Starting at INR 900