Complete Guide to Rafting in Rishikesh
Rishikesh offers rafting stretches for all experience levels — a 9 km float for beginners through to a full-day 36 km expedition for thrill-seekers. The Ganga's rapids are named after the challenges they present: Roller Coaster, Golf Course, Club House, Double Trouble and the fearsome The Wall.
| Stretch | Distance | Rapids | Grade | Best For | Cost/person |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brahmpuri to Rishikesh | 9 km | 5 rapids (I–II) | Easy | Beginners, kids 8+ | ₹600–₹900 |
| Shivpuri to Rishikesh | 16 km | 10 rapids (II–III) | Moderate | Most popular stretch | ₹900–₹1,500 |
| Marine Drive to Rishikesh | 26 km | 14 rapids (II–IV) | Moderate–Difficult | Experienced rafters | ₹1,500–₹2,500 |
| Kaudiyala to Rishikesh | 36 km | 17 rapids (III–IV+) | Difficult | Adventure seekers | ₹2,500–₹4,000 |
Best Time for Rafting in Rishikesh
- September–November (Post-monsoon): Best season — crystal clear water, full river, manageable levels; October is ideal
- February–May: Second best season; snowmelt adds volume; water is cold but rapids excellent; Spring break popular
- June–August: Rafting is closed — Ganga is dangerously high during monsoon; state government bans rafting
- December–January: Open but very cold water (8–12°C); wetsuits mandatory; fewer tourists; peaceful
How to Reach Rishikesh for Rafting
- By Road: Delhi → Rishikesh (240 km, ~5 hrs via Haridwar); Dehradun → Rishikesh (43 km, 1 hr)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station connected to Delhi (Shatabdi via Haridwar); Haridwar is the main rail hub (25 km)
- By Air: Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun → 35 km / 50 min to Rishikesh by taxi (₹800–₹1,000)
- Rafting start points: Kaudiyala, Marine Drive and Shivpuri are all on the Badrinath highway north of Rishikesh
Rafting Costs and What to Expect
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Rafting cost (short 9 km) | ₹600–₹900 per person; includes equipment and guide |
| Rafting cost (popular 16 km) | ₹900–₹1,500; most recommended for first-timers |
| Full-day Kaudiyala (36 km) | ₹2,500–₹4,000; includes lunch, camping option |
| Raft + camp package | ₹2,500–₹3,800; includes 1 night tent stay at Shivpuri |
| Equipment provided | Life jacket, helmet, paddle, wetsuit (on request) |
Safety Tips and FAQs
- Always raft with RNARA-certified operators — avoid unlicensed operators offering unusually cheap rates
- Minimum age: 14 years for Grade III–IV; 8 years for Grade I–II (Brahmpuri stretch)
- Do not raft during monsoon (June 15 – August 31) — the government officially closes all stretches
- Secure all belongings in waterproof bags — many rapids can capsize the raft unexpectedly
- Book directly with camp operators at Shivpuri for best deals — market rates in Rishikesh town are 20–30% higher
FAQ: Which is the best rafting stretch in Rishikesh? The Shivpuri to Rishikesh stretch (16 km, Grade III) is the most popular for first-timers — enough thrills without being dangerous. For experienced rafters, the Marine Drive to Rishikesh run (26 km) with its Grade IV rapids is the top choice.