Rishikesh, dubbed the “Yoga Capital of the World,” also has something to offer thrill seekers, especially folks who enjoy adventure sports. Famed for its captivating river rafting, this spiritual town is nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas and set alongside the Ganges River, which features different grades of rapids. From novices to experts, everyone enjoys Rishikesh river rafting.

This blog post, however, discusses the best places for river rafting in Rishikesh, safety measures, and the best time for the sport.

Rafting in Rishikesh

Like all forms of sports, Rishikesh River rafting has various types of stretches that cater to different skill grades. Following is the selected list of the most popular rafting stretches of the Ganga river:

1. Brahmpuri to Rishikesh (Grade I & II – 9 km)

Best for novices and short trips with family
The rapids are very gentle. Perfect stretch for the first-time rafters
It takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to complete

2. Shivpuri to Rishikesh (Grade II & III – 16 km)

Perfect for modestly seasoned thrill seekers who want heart in their sport
Includes very high-energy rapids called "Return to Sender" and "Roller Coaster"
Duration: Approximately 3 hours

3. Marine Drive to Rishikesh (Grade III & IV – 24 km)

Great for seasoned rafters who are looking for the next level of extreme.
It takes approximately 4 hours to complete.
Includes principal rapids like "Three Blind Mice" and "Crossfire."

4. Kaudiyala to Rishikesh (Grade IV & V – 35 km)

Best suited for trained rafters in quest for extreme adventure.
Has exceedingly famed rapid “The Wall”
Requires high endurance and professional guidance

Best Time for Rafting in Rishikesh

The ideal time for river rafting in Rishikesh is:

September to June: Great time to raft, optimal conditions for weather and level of water.
Avoid monsoons (July & August): Risky conditions due to high levels of water and current strength.

Safety Tips for Rafting in Rishikesh

Rafting is quite the experience, but ensure to prioritise safety foremost. Here are some top safety tips for rafting:

Wear a life jacket and helmet at all times.
Book with a licensed rafting operator that has professional guides on staff.
Always obey any directions given to you by your instructor.
Avoid any physically strenuous activities for a short period before rafting if you have heart-related medical issues.
Do not eat heavy meals or drink alcohol prior to rafting.

What to Pack for Rafting in Rishikesh?

To prepare for the rafting expedition, it is important to remember the following suggestions for packing:

Drying clothing (pants and T-shirts should not be made of cotton)
Strong sandals or shoes that are suitable for water.
Sunscreen for the face, and glasses with the straps.
Water-resistant backpack to keep important items safe
Additional clothes to change after the rafting exercise

Other Adventure Activities in Rishikesh

Other than whitewater rafting, Rishikesh has many options for adventure enthusiasts:

Bungee Jumping at Mohan Chatti (the highest Bungee Jump in India)
Camping with bonfire nights by the Ganges river.
Trekking to Neer Garh Waterfall for some nature therapy
Zip-lining over the Ganges for an aerial thrill

Where to Stay in Rishikesh?

For the best experience, the Clarks Inn Express, Rishikesh, is the ideal hotel for this region. This hotel provides:

Conveniently located near preferred places of adventure
Satisfactory level of comfort in the hotel with well-furnished facilities
Delicious dining options for a relaxing meal post-rafting
Affordable packages for a budget-friendly yet luxurious stay

Rishikesh rafting is a must-try experience for adventure enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, the rafting routes in Rishikesh cater to all skill levels. Make sure to follow safety guidelines and plan your trip during the ideal season for an ultimate adventure.

To complete your trip with comfort and convenience, book your stay at Clarks Inn Express, Rishikesh. Enjoy seamless hospitality while exploring the thrill of river rafting in the heart of the Himalayas!
Plan your Rishikesh rafting trip today and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best time for rafting in Rishikesh?
The best time for river rafting in Rishikesh is from September to June, as the weather is pleasant and the water levels are ideal. Avoid monsoons due to strong currents.

2. Is rafting in Rishikesh safe for beginners?
Yes, rafting is safe for beginners if done under professional guidance. The Brahmpuri to Rishikesh route is best suited for first-timers.

3. What is the minimum age requirement for rafting in Rishikesh?
The minimum age for rafting in Rishikesh is 14 years for most routes. Some beginner-friendly stretches allow children aged 12 years and above.

4. Do I need prior experience for rafting in Rishikesh?
No prior experience is needed for beginner and intermediate routes. However, advanced routes like Kaudiyala to Rishikesh require experience and strong physical endurance.

5. How much does river rafting in Rishikesh cost?

Rafting prices vary based on the stretch:

Brahmpuri to Rishikesh – Rs600 - Rs800 per person
Shivpuri to Rishikesh – Rs1000 - Rs1500 per person
Marine Drive to Rishikesh – Rs1500 - Rs2000 per person
Kaudiyala to Rishikesh – Rs2500 - Rs3000 per person

Best Rafting Places in Rishikesh