Rishikesh River Rafting

Know everything about Rishikesh river rafting in this complete guide. Learn about rafting timings, prices, packages, routes, distances, rapids, rafting season, safety rules, age limits, what to wear, and possible risks. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced adventurer, this guide will help you plan your rafting trip.

Rafting Point in Rishikesh

Rishikesh offers multiple rafting routes ranging from 9 km to 35 km, suitable for all skill levels. Beginners can enjoy shorter stretches, while longer routes like 16 km, 25 km, and the challenging 35 km Kaudiyala stretch provide stronger rapids. Key rafting points include Brahmapuri, Marine Drive, Shivpuri, and Kaudiyala.

9 KM Brahmapuri to Ram Jhula

The Brahmapuri to Ram Jhula route is the easiest rafting section in Rishikesh, making it ideal for beginners, families, children, and first-time rafters who want a relaxed river experience.

Ideal For: Beginners, families, senior visitors, and first-time rafters
Rapids: 4 small rapids
Rapid Grade: Grade 1–2
Rapids Name: Initiation, Body Surfing, Double Trouble, Hilton
Starting Point: Brahmapuri
Ending Point: Ram Jhula

12 KM Marine Drive to Shivpuri

The Marine Drive to Shivpuri route is an exciting rafting section with stronger rapids than Brahmapuri. It offers a fun mix of adventure and excitement, making it suitable for both families and young rafters.

Rapids: 6 exciting rapids
Rapid Grade: Grade 1–3
Rapids Name: Welcome, Black Money, Three Blind Mice, Crossfire, Body Surfing, Thank God
Starting Point: Marine Drive
Ending Point: Shivpuri
Ideal For: Families, young rafters, and first-time adventurers

16 KM Shivpuri to Nim Beach

The Shivpuri to NIM Beach route is one of the most popular and exciting rafting sections in Rishikesh. It includes some of the Ganga’s best rapids, making it perfect for young and adventure-loving rafters.

Rapids: 8 exciting rapids
Rapids: Return to Center, Roller Coaster, Golf Course, Club House, Cash Flow, Initiation, Body Surfing, Double Trouble
Starting Point: Shivpuri
Ending Point: Nim Beach
Ideal For: Youth, young rafters, and people trying rafting for the second time

25 KM Marine Drive to NIM Beach

The 25 KM Marine Drive to Nim Beach route is a long and adventurous rafting experience, with extended river time and challenging rapids. It is best suited for active and physically fit rafters looking for a more demanding adventure.

Rapids: 14 exciting rapids
Rapids: Welcome, Black Money, Three Blind Mice, Crossfire, Body Surfing, Thank God, Return to Center, Roller Coaster, Golf Course, Club House, Cash Flow, Initiation, Body Surfing, Double Trouble
Starting Point: Marine Drive
Ending Point: NIM Beach
Highlights: Long rafting section and strong rapids
Ideal For: Active, fit, and experienced rafters

More Info: Rafting Point in Rishikesh

Rishikesh River Rafting Price

Rishikesh river rafting price depends on the route and rafting section you choose. Prices generally start from around ₹500 and can go up to ₹2,500 per person for longer and more adventurous rafting routes.

Rafting Stretch	Distance	Price
Brahmapuri to Ram Jhula	9 km	₹500
Marine Drive to Shivpuri	12 km	₹600
Byasi to Shivpuri	15km	₹700
Shivpuri to NIM Beach	16 km	₹800
Marine Drive to NIM Beach	25 km	₹1200
Kaudiyala to NIM Beach	35 km	₹2000

More Info: Rishikesh Rafting Price

Rishikesh River Rafting Season

Rishikesh river rafting generally operates from 15 September to 30 June, giving visitors around 9 months and a few days to enjoy rafting. The exact opening and closing dates may vary depending on monsoon conditions. Rafting is generally closed from 1 July to 15 September during the monsoon season, as advised under Uttarakhand tourism regulations.

More Info: Rishikesh Rafting Season

Rafting Months in Rishikesh

Rishikesh rafting conditions change throughout the season. Water volume, river color, weather, and rapid intensity vary from month to month.

September to November

Water Volume: High
Water Color: Muddy
Weather: Pleasant
Rapids: Strong

December to February

Water Volume: Low
Water Color: Crystal clear
Weather: Cold
Rapids: Moderate

March to May

Water Volume: Medium
Water Color: Clear to crystal clear
Weather: Warm to hot
Rapids: Moderate to strong

June

Water Volume: High
Water Color: Dark and muddy
Weather: Very hot
Rapids: Strong

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Best Time for Rafting in Rishikesh

The best time for rafting in Rishikesh can vary from person to person depending on the weather and river conditions they prefer. However, September to November and March to June are generally considered the best periods. These months offer pleasant to warm weather, suitable water volume, and enjoyable rafting conditions.

Is Rafting Open in Rishikesh?

Yes, river rafting in Rishikesh is generally open from 15 September to 30 June. However, the opening or closing dates may sometimes change depending on monsoon conditions and local regulations. It is best to contact your rafting operator before planning your trip to confirm the latest status.

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Is Rafting Closed in Rishikesh?

Yes, river rafting in Rishikesh is closed every year during the monsoon season, generally from 1 July to 15 September. During this period, rafting operations are stopped due to heavy rainfall and changing river conditions, as per Uttarakhand tourism guidelines.

Rafting in Rishikesh Timing

Rafting timings in Rishikesh generally vary between summer and winter. During summer, rafting starts earlier because of warmer temperatures, while winter timings are slightly later.

Summer Rafting Timings

Morning: 7:00–8:00 AM to 10:00 AM
Afternoon: 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Evening: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM

Winter Rafting Timings

Morning: 8:00–9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Afternoon: 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Evening: 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM

The exact departure and completion time can vary depending on the rafting section or route you choose, river conditions, and operational schedules.

Rapids in Rishikesh River Rafting

Rishikesh has rapids ranging from Grade 1 to Grade 4, offering different levels of adventure. Grade 1–2 rapids are suitable for beginners, Grade 3 for intermediate rafters, and Grade 4 for experienced and advanced rafters seeking a more challenging experience.

Rapid Name	Grade	Difficulty Level
The Wall	Grade 4+	Very Difficult
Black Money	Grade 1	Easy
Three Blind Mice	Grade 3	Moderate
Crossfire	Grade 2+	Moderate
Body Surfing	Grade 2	Easy
Thank God	Grade 2	Easy
Return to Center	Grade 2+	Moderate
Roller Coaster	Grade 3+	Difficult
Golf Course	Grade 4	Difficult
Club House	Grade 3	Moderate
Cash Flow	Grade 2	Easy
Initiation	Grade 1+	Easy
Double Trouble	Grade 2	Easy

More Info: Rapids in Rishikesh Rafting

Rishikesh River Rafting Age Limit

The general age limit for river rafting in Rishikesh is around 14 to 55 years, but it can vary depending on the rafting section and its difficulty level.

9–12 KM: Generally suitable for ages 14–55 years
16–25 KM: Better suited for physically fit rafters, generally 16–50 years
Age eligibility may also depend on health, fitness, weather, and river conditions.

Minimum Age for Rafting in Rishikesh

The minimum age for river rafting in Rishikesh generally ranges from 12 to 14 years, depending on the rafting section you choose.

9 KM Brahmapuri to Ram Jhula: Children aged around 12–14 years may be suitable for this easy section.
16–25 KM routes: A minimum age of around 16–18 years is more suitable because these sections involve stronger rapids and require better physical fitness.

Maximum Age for Rishikesh River Rafting

The maximum age for river rafting in Rishikesh depends on the rafting section and your physical fitness. For easier routes like 9 KM Brahmapuri to Ram Jhula and 12 KM Marine Drive to Shivpuri, people around 55–60 years may be suitable if they are in good health.

9–12 KM: Generally suitable up to 55–60 years, depending on health and fitness.
16–25 KM: These more adventurous routes require better physical fitness and are generally recommended for people below 50 years.
Important: Age limits can vary depending on health, river conditions, and operator guidelines.

More info: Rishikesh Rafting Age Limit

Is Cliff Jumping Allowed in Rishikesh?

Cliff jumping in Rishikesh was banned in 2021 after an accident in which two visitors suffered foot injuries while jumping. Following the incident, the Uttarakhand Water Police prohibited cliff jumping to improve visitor safety.

Is Rishikesh River Rafting Open in January?

Yes, Rishikesh river rafting is open in the winter months, including December, January, and February. The water is cold during this period, but rafting is still enjoyable. We provide wetsuits and windcheaters to help keep rafters warm and comfortable while enjoying the river.

FAQs About Rishikesh River Rafting

1. Is River Rafting Safe in Rishikesh?

Yes, river rafting in Rishikesh is generally a safe adventure activity when done with an authorised and experienced rafting operator. Follow these basic safety rules:

Always wear your life jacket and helmet properly.
Listen carefully to the guide’s instructions before and during rafting.
Do not shout, stand, or make sudden movements while passing through rapids.
Follow the guide’s commands during challenging rapids.
Do not drink or consume alcohol before rafting.
Choose a rafting section suitable for your age and fitness level.

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2. Which River Flows in Rishikesh?

The Ganga River flows through Rishikesh and is the main river used for river rafting. The Ganga is formed at Devprayag, where the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers meet. From Devprayag, the combined river is known as the Ganga and continues its journey through Rishikesh.

3. Body Surfing in Rishikesh

Body surfing is a fun activity included as part of the river rafting experience in Rishikesh and is generally not charged separately. During the rafting trip, there are specific spots where tourists can safely enjoy body surfing under the guide’s instructions. Some rafting sections also have dedicated body-surfing rapids, making the experience even more exciting.

4. What to Wear for Rishikesh River Rafting?

Wear quick-dry and lightweight clothes that dry quickly after getting wet.
Choose comfortable clothing that allows you to swim and paddle easily.
Wear comfortable sandals or water-friendly footwear with a good grip.
You can wear water floaters suitable for rafting.Carry or wear a cap to protect yourself from the sun.
Avoid loose or heavy clothes that can become uncomfortable when wet.

5. Is Swimming Required for Rishikesh River Rafting?

Swimming is generally not required for river rafting in Rishikesh. Good health, basic fitness, and following your guide’s instructions are more important. The Ganga has several calm sections between rapids, allowing rafters to recover and regroup. However, you should still follow all safety instructions and wear your life jacket properly.

6. Things to Carry for Rishikesh River Rafting

Extra pair of clothes and a towel
Quick-dry clothes, cap, and water-friendly floaters
Sunscreen and a water bottle

7. Rishikesh River Rafting Safety Tips

River rafting is safe when you follow basic safety rules and listen to your guide. Always use proper safety gear, follow instructions, and choose a registered rafting operator.

Always listen to the guide’s commands and instructions.
Never enter the river without a life jacket and proper safety gear.
Do not jump into the river or rapids without the guide’s permission.
Do not shout, stand, or make sudden movements while passing through rapids.
Always book your rafting trip with a registered company and licensed or trained guides.

8. How deep is Ganga River in Rishikesh?

The depth of the Ganga varies significantly across different parts of Rishikesh and changes with the season and river flow. In winter, some sections may be around 20–30 feet deep, while during the monsoon, rising water levels can make some areas more than 50 feet deep. The exact depth depends on the location and current river conditions.

9. What to Avoid During Rishikesh River Rafting?

Do not choose a cheap rafting operator just to save money.
Always check whether the company is registered and operates with trained or licensed guides.
Make sure the guides have CPR and first-aid training.
Check that the company provides proper, good-quality safety equipment.
Never consume alcohol or drugs before rafting.
Do not ignore the guide’s safety instructions during the rafting trip.

10. Rishikesh River Rafting Price Per Person?

The Rishikesh river rafting price per person depends on the rafting section and route you choose. The approximate prices for different routes are:

9 KM: ₹500 per person
12 KM: ₹600 per person
16 KM: ₹800 per person
25 KM: ₹1,200 per person
35 KM: ₹2,000 per person