Rafting in Rishikesh Guide - Book Safest Rishikesh Rafting Tours at Best Cost

Best Rishikesh Rafting Guide 2025

Rishikesh Rafting

River rafting is a sport which does not only fit adults but safe and fun adventure activity which can be enjoyed by families and kids (mainly from Brahampuri) as well. There are many authorized and certified river rafting operators, experts and instructors available in Rishikesh to make your rafting experience safe and full of adventure. Rafting in the turbulent waters of the Ganga River is an experience that you will keep for the rest of your life.

There are multiple rafting spots from where you can start and enjoy rafting, depending upon the length of rafting and its grade. Adventure lovers can choose a grade according to their preferences and expertise.

Rafting in Rishikesh is not only famous among Indians as a weekend getaway but also a popular spiritual and adventure destination for foreign tourists as well.

How to Book River Rafting in Rishikesh?

Booking a river rafting adventure in Rishikesh is simple. For a hassle-free rafting experience in Rishikesh, book your adventure with eUttaranchal Travel Network or other reputed operators.

Choose the Right Rafting Stretch: Rishikesh offers different rafting routes based on difficulty level:
- Brahmpuri to Rishikesh (9 km) – Beginner
- Shivpuri to Rishikesh (16 km) – Moderate
- Marine Drive to Rishikesh (26 km) – Challenging
- Kaudiyala to Rishikesh (35 km) – Expert
Select a Trusted Rafting Operator
Ensure safety measures like life jackets, helmets, and trained guides.
Online Booking: Visit travel websites like eUttaranchal or local adventure operators' websites.
Check inclusions like transportation, meals, safety gear, and accommodation (if needed).
Most rafting operators provide pickup and drop services to the starting point.

Are you ready for the thrill? Contact Number for Booking Rafting in Rishikesh : +91-7303934771

Why is Rishikesh is best for Rafting?

River Rafting in Rishikesh is an ultimate adventure experience that will get your pulse racing to make it one of the most unforgettable trips of your life.
In recent times Rishikesh has become a haven for rafting and kayaking enthusiasts from all over the world.

Rafting in River Ganges: River Ganga is the holiest river in India and doing rafting or living in camps near Ganga is itself a rejuvenating experience. Rishikesh River rafting is offered breathtaking scenery, different grades of rapids, the experience of a terrific adventure to river rafters.
Team Building: It helps your team members gel with each other and that will help in their work in office as well. The rafting activity involves teamwork and all team members work towards the same goal. It helps corporate to motivate their employees and helps in increasing the performance.
Building long-lasting friendships: There is plenty of time to bond during camping and rafting. People often strengthen their friendly relations during such activities whether it is trekking, rafting or camping.
Boost Mental health: Rafting gives you a positive attitude, fighting spirit and a lot of happiness once. Overcoming your fears and defeating the challenges is always a mental booster.

Rishikesh Rafting Season 2025

Season of Rafting in Rishikesh: September 2024 to June 2025
Best time for White Water Rafting in Rishikesh: October to April

Popular River Rafting Points In Rishikesh

1. Brahampuri Club House Rafting (9 Kms)

Cost per person: Rs 600
Approx Time: 1 - 2 Hours
River Rafting Distance: 9 Kms

The stretch from Brahmpuri Club House to Rishikesh NIM Beach is the easiest and the shortest one, around 9 kms. It is a Grade I rafting expedition and is meant for beginners. People of age groups from 12 to 60 years can enjoy this expedition. The stretch is perfect for family and student groups. It hits some of the enjoyable rapids on the Ganga i.e. Initiation, Double Trouble, Hilton and Terminator. Rafting is suitable for kids and elderly people from Bhrahampuri to Rishikesh. It is nearly like a good boating experience with a lot of fun as it is in River Ganga.

2. Shivpuri Rafting (16 Kms)

Cost per person: Rs 1000
Approx Time: 2 - 3 Hours
River Rafting Distance: 16 Kms

It is located from 18 kms from Rishikesh. The rafting season in Shivpuri starts in mid October and ends in June. Rafting from Shivpuri till NIM Beach in Rishikesh is a 16 kms rafting stretch and covers some of the exciting rapids. Shivpuri Rafting ideally costs Rs. 1000 per person. This cost includes pick up from rafting office in Rishikesh, travel to Shivpuri, cost of rafting guide and all required equipment. It is the best selling rafting as there are many camps nearby which offer camping with rafting from Shivpuri.

3. Marine Drive Rafting (26 Kms)

Cost per person: Rs 1500
Approx Time: 3 - 4 Hours
River Rafting Distance: 26 Kms

The sailing distance is around 27 km and it takes about 2 hours to the destination. The rafting expedition from Marine Drive to Rishikesh NIM Beach is of moderate level with few extra rapids in comparison to Shivpuri ones. During your rafting session you can enjoy cliff jumping on river Ganga and hit some enjoyable rapids such as Three Blind Mice, The Wall, Crossfire Roller Coaster, Golf Course, Clubhouse, Initiation, Double Trouble, Hilton & Terminator.

4. Kaudiyala Rafting (35 Kms)

Cost per person: Rs 2500
Approx Time: 4 - 5 Hours
River Rafting Distance: 35 Kms

It is right to call this place is quite challenging as it offers the right dose of adventure to rafters. Covering a distance of 35 km, this stretch includes a total of 13 rapids of both Grade III and IV that put your strength and stamina to the test for about 1-4 hours. Rocks, high and irregular waves are the high points of this rafting stretch from Kaudiyala to Rishikesh. These rapids are meant for well-trained rafters.

5. Devprayag (75 Kms) - 2 Days Rafting Expedition

Cost per person: Rs 9000 onwards
Approx Time: 2 Complete Days
River Rafting Distance: 70 Kms

Rafting from Devprayag requires good physic and stamina. The rafting from Devprayag to Rishikesh is done in 2 days. On the first day, you will be rafting around 35 kms via Beas Ghat and reaching Kaudiyala for a night stay. Next day another 35 kms of stretch will be done till Rishikesh.

Rishikesh Rafting Grades In River Ganges

White Water Rafting in Rishikesh Uttarakhand

Grade I: Easy, Small Waves, No Big Obstacle
One of the most popular river rapids of Grade I is 'Sweet Sixteen'. It is the most favored rafting point for adventurous and family holiday's fun. It is some of the popular grades in Rishikesh include Brahmpuri is the easiest and shortest one point for rafting which covers around 9 kms. It is the closet point from Rishikesh to set out on your rafting tour.

Grade II: Moderate Difficulty with Clear Passages
The rapids at Shivpuri have been categorized into Grade I and Grade II. These grades are of medium or moderate difficulty. It requires bit guidance for the rafters. They exist in those parts, where the river passes through slight rocky or uneven regions. It covers around 16 kms. It starts at Shivpuri and ends at Laxman Jhula. Shivpuri River Rafting has adventurous Rapids. Tourist can enjoy cliff jumping on the way.

Grade III: Difficult, Narrow Passages, Irregular High Waves
The CrossFire and Three Blind Mice are the Grade III rapid that brings serious obstacles by including multiple high, irregular waves and rocks. Marine Drive is the third starting point or the third closest point to begin on a rafting expedition from Rishikesh. The fun and adventure of river rafting usually begin with the Grade-III rapids. Within here, you can find the bigger waves that require good navigating techniques and proper guidance. It starts from marine drive to Rishikesh.

Grade IV: Difficult, Very Powerful Waves
Rafting gets more action-packed and exciting while paddling through the Grade-IV rapids. Offering challenging waves, uneven flow of the water and sudden drops, these rapids, at times can topple the raft easily. The adventure of the Ganges from Kaudiayala to Rishikesh spans over a distance of 36 km. There are 13 excellent rapids along this stretch. An excellent example of these rapids is 'The Wall', where 9 out of every 10 raft boats flip over. Generally, tourist prefers grade IV for rafting.

If you want to feel the real action of adventure then Rishikesh is the right place for you. Here safety measurements also were taken for the tourist so they can feel safe during rafting. After all "safety comes first". Before rafting instructor always gives some instructions to the tourist. Therefore, do not make the mistake of underestimating their expertise about the rafting techniques and river rapids. Listen to them properly and act as advised to enhance the joy of river rafting even more.

Famous Rapids You Can Experience During Rafting In Rishikesh

There are around 16 Rapids from Kaudiyala to Rishikesh during the rafting of 36 kms in River Ganga. There are up to grade IV types of rapid are here at Kaudiyala to Rishikesh Rafting. Grade II rapid is little fast flow than Grade I. Grade III rapids are adventurous and expert advice is needed. In Grade IV rapid you can see white water along with rocks.

Rapids from Kaudiyala to Rishikesh River Rafting

List of Rapids in Rishikesh Rafting

Black Money Rapid (Grade I)
Sweet Sixteen Rapid (Grade I)
Good Morning Rapid (Grade I)
~~Body Surfing (Grade I)~~ banned as of 23 Mar 2025
Club House Rapid (Grade II)
Initiation Rapid (Grade II)
Double Trouble Rapid (Grade II)
Hilton Rapid (Grade II)
Terminator Rapid (Grade II)
Shivpuri Rapid (Grade II+)
Three Blind Mice Rapid (Grade III)
CrossFire Rapid (Grade III)
Roller coaster Rapid (Grade III)
Golf Course Rapid (Grade III)
Return to Sender Rapid (Grade III)
Daniel’s Dip Rapid (Grade III+)
The Great Wall Rapid (Grade IV)

Rishikesh Rafting Safety Tips & Precautions

No doubt that rafting is fun but at the same time it is good to be aware of the risks involved and also about safety. If you follow some basic precautions you can enjoy rafting safely. Keeping in mind the safety of travelers the rafting is closed during monsoon season as well. The following are some Do's and Don'ts during Rafting.

Things To Do During Rafting In Rishikesh

Wear Light: Dress accordingly! Wear light, airy and quick-drying garments as it makes the rafting expedition more thrilling. Remember to bring an extra pair of clothes that you need to wear after the sport.
Wear a life jacket: It is a mandate for all who undertake the expedition. Make sure the jacket is snug and buckled throughout.
Wear a Helmet and all the safety equipment provided.
Wear proper shoes: Do not wear flip- flops, and slippers. Old sneakers, water shoes or sandals with ankle straps are the best types for water rafting.
Help your fellows back: If your fellow rafters unintentionally fall into the water, do pull them back to the raft. Even if you don't know them, don't ignore them also.
Pay attention to the instructor: Listen to your instructor's safety precautions carefully as they are going to keep you safe.
Rafting is a Team Activity. Always paddle with the team and not individually.

Things You Should Avoid During River Rafting

Do not stand: During a moving current, do not stand up at all. If you fall by chance. You can float on your back with toes pointed up facing downstream.
Don't drink: Do not drink or bring alcohol during the trip. It is dangerous as you may feel drowsy. It is harmful for all.
Don't be overconfident about your skills or do heroic stuff to impress others during rafting.
Avoid unwanted particles: If you see fallen debris or tree branches on the river, avoid them and take a different route.
Do avoid cotton clothes: As the atmosphere remains windy, wearing cotton clothes may catch you cold. For cooler months, wear wetsuits or woolens to keep you dry.
Do not wear damaged or oversized life jackets.
Pregnant women, Asthmatic and heart patients are not allowed for River Rafting. Avoid Rafting if you any kind of fracture, injuries or any other medical complications.

Lastly and most importantly, never go for rafting alone!! Enjoy with your friends, family or colleagues.

Things To Carry While Rafting At Rishikesh

Bathing Suit or Shorts, T-shirt or Sandos,
Sunscreen Lotion, Antiseptic Cream, Sunglasses,
Swimming Goggles, Old Sneakers / Neoprene,
Waterproof Camera or Waterproof Bag for Camera and other devices,
Energy Bars/Energy Drinks, Zip Lock Waterproof Bags,
Towel and Extra Undergarments, Plastic Bags (for wet things),
Woolen clothes (during winters), Quick-drying shorts or swimming costume,
Sunglasses with retaining cord, Extra batteries
Use mosquito repellents and lotions during camping

Other Adventure Activities you can enjoy in Rishikesh during/with Rafting

Cliff Jumping: Cliff jumping is free fall jump into river Ganga from 30 feet height rock. Adventure enthusiast rafters never miss this wonderful jumping. It tests your mental abilities and strength, so give up the fear and come in gear. Everyone can enjoy this activity during rafting without any charges. But always follow your rafting guide’s safety instruction before your jump
.
Rock Climbing in Rishikesh: Rock Climbing actually lets you face challenges and check the physical strength and skills. It involves climbing up at a straight mountain with the help of cords and natural grips.

Rock Climbing and Rappelling can be done at Byasi (Easy - 40 Feet), Phoolchatti (Difficult - 80 Feet). Charges for Rock Climbing and Rappelling starts from Rs 200 per person per activity
Camping in Rishikesh: The are numerous campsites from Rishikesh to Devprayag consisting of low budget camps, deluxe camps and few super luxury camps with premium costing. All the camps promote camping with
rafting packages to school groups, corporates, small groups, family groups and to individual travelers as well.
Canoe Kayak: Kayaking can also be enjoyed after rafting in Rishikesh, and it all depends on your level of skill and energy.
Jungle and Waterfall Trekking/Hiking: There are few waterfalls around Rishikesh which can be reached by hiking. The trek goes within the forests and you can enjoy bird watching, wildlife species during the hike. The treks vary from 3 to 7 kms, depends on which waterfall you want to explore.
Body Surfing in River Ganges/Ganga: This is another free activity which can be done during rafting when most of the rapids are done. Body Surfing is Banned during Rafting in Rishikesh, due to few recent accidents and misshapenings.
Bunjee Jumping in Rishikesh: Bunjee Jumping has been started by Jumping Heights in Rishikesh, located in Mohan Chatti (15 Kms Far from Laxman Jhoola Rishikesh). Since inception, it has been a popular destination for adventure lovers.

Activity Cost: 83 Meters height Bungee Jump: Rs 3500, Flying Fox: Rs 1700, Canyon Swing: Rs 3000 (all charges are per person per activity, prices are subject to change)

Rafting Base Station will be developed in Rishikesh with Rs 100 Crores

The Rafting Base Station project aims to address infrastructure gaps, enhance tourist experiences, and boost economic development by centralizing rafting operations and improving facilities. The project is expected to create approximately 1,500 jobs.

A systematic system for booking rafting adventures is yet to be established at the rafting starting points such as Brahmapuri, Shivpuri, Kaudiyala and ending points such as Neem Beach, Laxman Jhula and Janki Jhula.

The project aims to centralise rafting operations at ISBT and provide standardised booking system and enhanced facilities to attract high-paying tourists and boost economic development. The project envisages development of a centralised rafting base station equipped with essential amenities such as toilets, proper changing rooms and roadside food shops to enhance tourist experience.

Rishikesh River Rafting in Different Months/Season

Rafting in January
In Rishikesh, January and February stands out as one of the chilliest months, with daytime temperatures ranging from 11 to 20 degrees Celsius and nighttime temperatures dropping to 5-8 degrees Celsius. The river water temperature decreases, becoming quite cold. Despite this, river rafting remains open, offering crystal-clear waters for enthusiasts to enjoy.

Rafting in February
February marks the onset of spring in Rishikesh, bringing forth blooming flowers and vibrant shades of green. While temperatures begin to rise, refreshing cool breezes persist, invigorating the atmosphere of Rishikesh. The river temperature remains low, but the climate permits gearing up for various activities.

Rafting in March, April
River rafting gains momentum in Rishikesh starting in March. The climate is mild and pleasant, bringing smiles to the faces of adventurers. Temperatures fluctuate between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, with gentle sunlight adding warmth to the atmosphere. The weather remains suitable in April, with daytime temperatures around 30 degrees Celsius and nighttime temperatures below 18 degrees Celsius.

Rafting in May, June
During May and June, the weather stays sunny but not excessively hot during the daytime, while the nights remain pleasant with cool breezes. It's an ideal time for families and children over 12 years to indulge in rafting at Shivpuri or Brahmpuri Rafting Points. Temperatures typically range between 30 to 45 degrees Celsius. Thanks to its hilly terrain, the climate in this region doesn't reach extreme points, making it an exhilarating hill station with a diverse range of adventurous options for tourists.

Rafting in July, August
During July and August, river rafting and other water adventures are temporarily halted. Heavy rainfall during these months results in the River Ganga's water flow becoming turbulent, generating strong currents. With the safety of tourists in mind, rafting activities are suspended during the monsoon season.

Rafting in September
In September, the water level in the River Ganga decreases, but the precise date for the commencement of rafting is determined after inspections conducted by the Rafting Association in collaboration with the tourism department of Uttarakhand. Initially, the simpler and shorter rafting routes below Grade 3, such as Brahmpuri and Club House Rafting, are opened, followed by Shivpuri Rafting. Kaudiyala rafting is the last to become available.

Rafting in October
October emerges as the preferred month for river rafters and adventure enthusiasts. Rishikesh returns to its usual state with the serene flow of the River Ganga. Tourists find the river rapids thrilling, setting the stage for an extraordinary rafting experience of a lifetime. The climate becomes pleasant during the day and comfortably cool at night.

Rafting in November
November marks the onset of winter in Rishikesh, yet river rafting expeditions remain open for booking, and tourists eagerly anticipate capturing their adventurous moments. The untamed and exhilarating river rapids of the Ganga keep the adrenaline pumping among adventure seekers. River rafting is available until the end of the month due to favorable weather conditions and the demand from tourists.

Rafting in December
December brings cold and breezy weather to Rishikesh, with nighttime temperatures dropping to around 8 degrees Celsius and daytime temperatures staying below 20 degrees Celsius. Additionally, the water temperature ranges from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius. Despite the chill, the crystal-clear water allows for an exhilarating white water rafting experience in December. Wet suits are provided during the winter months—check out our Rishikesh rafting guide for the winter season.

Check Rishikesh Weather - Rishikesh Packages

Rishikesh Rafting FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the opening date for rafting in Rishikesh?

A: Rishikesh rafting activities opened in the month of October 2023. Rafting, Camping and other water sports activities are now opened in Uttarakhand. Check out the latest Travel Guidelines for Uttarakhand.

Q: Is there any age restriction for the river rafting in Rishikesh or it can be enjoyed by anyone?

A: River rafting in Rishikesh is fit for the people of all age groups except the minors. Rafting can be enjoyed from 12 years to 60 Years old in some selected rafting zones only with Grade I and II rapids. For longer rafting stretches minimum 18 years old are allowed for rafting in Rishikesh. Please follow the rafting age limit restrictions for kids and elderly people for their own safety.

Q: What is the best time for river rafting in Rishikesh?

A: The best time for river rafting in Rishikesh starts from post monsoons (mid-September) till early summers (May). For crystal clear white water rafting November to March is a suitable time. During monsoons, it is not allowed to raft in the Ganges as the level of the river rises and is unsafe for rafting.

Q: Is paddling necessary during Rafting? What if that I do not want to paddle?

A: Rafting is team activity and paddling is required to enjoy the thrills with good velocity. However, there are 1 or 2 non-paddling positions in every raft, and you can discuss and choose those positions if you do not want to paddle during rafting, due to any reason.

Q: How far is Shivpuri from Rishikesh?

A: Shivpuri is just 19 km from Rishikesh and can be reached easily by road. The Shivpuri rafting is of 16 kms.

Q: How much it cost to do rafting in Rishikesh?

A: The approximate cost for per individual ranges between Rs. 1200-2000. The package offered for the rafting by the state costs around Rs. 1200 per individual.

Q: Is there any weight limit for river rafting?

A: Yes, Underweight and Overweight tourists are not allowed for rafting due to safety reasons. The minimum weight for rafting is 45 kgs and maximum weight should be not more than 100 kgs for rafting.

Q: Is pre-booking of rafting is required? How Can we book rafting in advance?

A: We recommend pre-booking so that you get your preferred time slot for rafting. During peak season and weekends, the rafting slots get sold out way in advance. And those who have few slots available tend to charge at premium rates. You can check all available rafting in Rishikesh here and book online as well: Kaudiyala rafting, Marine Drive rafting, Shivpuri rafting and Brahmpuri rafting.

Q: Can we do photography or Vlogging (videography) during rafting?

A: Yes, you can do photography or vlogging during rafting with the help of GoPro (Water Resistance Camera) by mounting it on the helmet or any other spot with the help of your guide which help you to fix it. One could also shoot a videos and pictures on mobile phones, but this can be done only in the peaceful stretches not during the rapids. Once you hit the rapids, you should stow your phone away in a waterproof bag with your guide which is available on the raft.

Q: Can we do rafting in groups?

A: Yes, you can do rafting in groups. Maximum 8 person are allowed in one raft.

Q: Can I do rafting from Devprayag to Rishikesh in one stretch?

A: No, it is recommended that you break your rafting journey at Kaudiayala. Complete details of Devprayag to Rishikesh rafting is given here.

Q: How many rafters are ideal for rafting? Can Rafting done in the group?

A: Rafting can be done with a minimum of 2 persons and it goes till 8 persons (depends on the size of the raft). More than 8 persons in a raft are not recommended and can have safety issues. Yes, rafting is the group adventure activity.

Q: What packages are available for Rafting in Rishikesh?

A: There are rafting only packages, rafting with camping, rafting with camping + other adventure activities, Rafting multi-day expeditions available. You can select the packages as per your skill, requirement, and budget.

Q: What about mobile connectivity in the area?

A: The mobile connectivity in the whole area is very good and all the mobile networks (Airtel, Idea, Vodafone, BSNL) work well during your rafting trip. Though there might be some stretches where the network might be weak as well.

Q: Do we have to carry the medication during the river rafting trip from our side?

A: Yes, it is highly recommended that you carry the necessary medications with you during your trip, which include insulin, inhalers, bee sting kits, etc. As there are no medical shops in the whole stretch neither near the river nor on the main Badrinath highway. It is always advisable to carry your first aid kit and medications you use on a daily basis as well.

Q: I do not know swimming, can I go for river rafting?

A: Yes, knowledge of swimming is not necessary for rafting. You can enjoy rafting if you do not know how to swim. you will be provided with the life jacket during the river rafting activity and it will help you to float for hours. Non Swimmers equally enjoy the rafting.

Q: Should I carry my camera during the rafting activity in Rishikesh?

A: Though it is not advisable, considering safety issues. But. Yes, you can, make sure it is compact and waterproof, and you are holding it tight. Gopro cameras are good for capturing the thrills, but use it during easy rapids and not on Grade III+ rapids. For general cameras or mobile phone, you can give them to your instructor, he will keep them in its dry pouch and will give you when water is still. Do follow the instruction from your rafting guide in regard to the use of the camera during rafting.

Q: Is it suitable to do rafting in winter months, when it is very cold?

A: Yes, Winters (November, December, January and February) is the best time of the year for White Water Rafting on Ganges. The water will be crystal clear, with more rapids due to low level of water. There is a common myth, that during winters the water of Ganga river will be very cold but it does not and with bright sunny days, you will enjoy the rafting in winters.

Q: What is the minimum age for rafting in Rishikesh?

A: A child should be minimum of 12 years of age for rafting and other water sports activities in Rishikesh. For rafting more than 9 kms, minimum age of eligibility is 18 years.

Q: Can Senior Citizens do rafting in Rishikesh?

A: No, Senior Citizens (above 60 years old), even if they are physical fit are not allowed to rafting in Rishikesh, as per Govt Rules.

Q: How should I select a rafting operator with so many options and price variations?

A: For rafting, safety should be the prime concern than the pricing. Always choose authorized rafting operators who have licensed rafts. Authorized rafting operators have certified guides with international certificates for rafting, kayaking, swimming, and life-saving skills. The cost of rafting will be higher if you are going with them. However, you might also see some cheap and low-cost budget rafting operators as well, offering rafting in Rishikesh on discounted rates. They compromise on the experience of guides, quality of rafts/paddles and life-saving equipment, doing multiple trips in a day, does not have certified guides (who charge more than the normal) and some even have minors as rafting guides. Choose your rafting guide in Rishikesh wisely and do not risk your life for a few bucks.

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