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Adventure Of Rishikesh
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Camping In Rishikesh

Best Time for Rafting in Rishikesh​

Located in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas and graced by the Ganges, Rishikesh has earned the title of India’s river rafting capital. With rapids varying from mild to wild, it’s no surprise that this adventure sport draws thousands of travellers every year. The mesmerising riverbanks, surrounding the Garhwal ranges, and the spiritual ambience of the place further add to the excitement of rafting in Rishikesh. However, the season in which you are undertaking this activity can affect your experience to a large extent. That is why we are here to provide you with a complete guide to Rishikesh river rafting seasons!

The rafting season in Rishikesh begins from September to October and continues until mid-June. A short monsoon break, depending on water conditions and safety standards. Spring, summer, and autumn are ideal seasons for this sport, offering perfect conditions for rafting and beautiful views of the surroundings. During this period, you can explore everything, from beginner-friendly 9 km routes from Shivpuri to intense 70 km journeys from Devprayag. Being one of the top activities to do in Rishikesh, river rafting perfectly combines the serenity of the holy Ganges and the stunning Himalayan atmosphere. 

So, here we are, covering everything you need to know before going rafting with Thrillophilia's Rishikesh tour packages. In this article, you can learn about the ideal seasons for enjoying the best rafting experience, popular routes, essential safety tips, and everything else. Whether you are a first-timer looking to taste the thrill of this activity or an adrenaline-junkie aiming to conquer higher grades of rapids, all Rishikesh rafting seasons offer an experience that is both safe and soul-stirring.

Essential Information for Rishikesh Rafting Season:
  • Age Limit: 12 years onwards (for stretches more than 9 km, the minimum age limit is 14 years
  • Weight Limit: 40–100 kg
  • Operating Season: September/October to June 20th every year
  • Price Range: Approx. INR 600 to INR 9000 or more (depends on route and distance covered)
  • Rafting Entry Fee: Around INR 20 by GNR - Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam-authorised rafting management. (included in most rafting packages)
Why Rishikesh for River Rafting?
Rishikesh isn’t just another rafting destination, it is the rafting capital of the country.  With the holy Ganges flowing through the mountains and into the heart of Rishikesh, this river offers world-class rapids that cater to all. Rafting on these holy waters provides a unique combination of spiritual charm and jaw-dropping scenic beauty, making your journey deeply enriching. Upon this, the surrounding mountainous landscapes and thrilling rapids enhance your rafting experience like no other.

Rishikesh offers several professionally managed rafting tours with trained instructors, top-notch safety gear, and multiple route options. Adding to that is the fantastic chance of camping by the river, enjoying bonfires, indulging in yoga retreats, and exploring adventure sports like bungee jumping and cliff diving.

With every stroke of the oar and every wave passing, all rafting seasons in Rishikesh promise the rush of adrenaline and the calm of nature working together. That’s why Rishikesh remains the most trusted and thrilling river rafting spot in India.
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Best Rishikesh Rafting Packages

34 Ratings
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  • 3H
  • Rishikesh
  • 3H
34 Ratings
Excellent 34 Ratings
5.0
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₹ 858 ₹ 600
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Location: Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Timings: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Rafting is an amazing sport of adrenaline and with the presence of the Himalayas at the northern frontier of India, the rivers in the region have a raging nature and that is why Rishikesh in Uttarakhand is the best place in the country to experience White Water Rafting, that too on the rapids of the river Ganga. This activity brings to you different options of rafting in Rishikesh to choose from, so you can take on the kind of adventure that you would want. Grab this oppurtunity with your friends or family to face the rapids of the ganga and have cliff jumping and body surfing as an additional activity to do.

Available Package Option:
Kodiyala Down (35km)
Rishikesh to Kodiyala down to Laxman Jhula
Rapids- 
The wall (IV), Three blind mice (III+), Crossfire (III), Roller coaster (III+), Golf Course (III+), Club house (III)

Marine Drive Down (24km)
Rishikesh to Marine Drive down to Laxman Jhula
Rapids- 
Three blind mice (III+), Crossfire (III), Roller coaster (III+), Golf Course (III+), Clubhouse (III)

Shivpuri Down (16km)
Rishikesh to Shivpuri down to Laxman Jhula
Rapids- 
Roller coaster (III+), Golf Course (III+), and Clubhouse (III).

Brahmpuri Down (10km)
Rishikesh to Brahmpuri down to Ramjhula
Rapids- 
Jail No Bail (Grade II+),  Double  trouble (Grade  II)  and Hilton  (Grade II)

How to reach:
The meetup point is located within the and is accessible local/private transport The meetup point will be disclosed once the booking is done.

Read more

Best Season for River Rafting in Rishikesh

02

River Rafting in Summer

March-April
  • Avg temperature- 20 to 25 degrees C
  • Water temperature- 15 to 25 degrees C
  • Climate and weather- Pleasant and cool winds with gentle sunshine
This is the Rishikesh rafting season when the sport of river rafting gains momentum, and more people come here to try this activity. The comfortable water temperatures and weather make it an ideal time for a bashing session of rafting in Rishikesh. However, what makes it the best rafting season is the increased volume of water in the Ganges that truly makes your experience memorable.

May-June
  • Avg temperature- 25 to 35 degrees C
  • Water temperature- 20 to 30 degrees C
  • Climate and weather- Sunny days, with cool breezes at night
Due to the hilly landscapes, the temperature does not reach extreme points, thereby offering a sunny experience during the day hours. The water temperatures reflect these conditions, making this one of the best rafting seasons in Rishikesh for families and kids to indulge in this sport.

Note- The Closing date of the river rafting season is June 20th
03

River Rafting in Winter

October-November
  • Avg temperature- 15 to 25 degrees C
  • Water temperature- 15 to 20 degrees C
  • Climate and weather- Cool weather with chilly nights
This season sees high demand among tourists since the rafting season opens again after the monsoons subside. The climatic temperatures and water temperatures get cooler, thus offering a refreshing and exciting experience to all rafters.

December-January- February
  • Avg temperature- 10 to 20 degrees C
  • Water temperature- 10 to 15 degrees C
  • Climate and weather- Chilly weather, with extremely cold nights
If you are interested in adding an extra layer of thrill to your river rafting experience, then you can try out this activity during the winter months. The chilly water conditions and reduced flow of the Ganges promise to level up the difficulty of even the easiest stretches.

Note- The Rishikesh rafting season opens as per inspection results of the water conditions, carried out by the Rafting Association in collaboration with UK tourism board.

You Can Also CheckoutBungee jumping in Rishikesh

Things to know while River Rafting in Rishikesh

04

Grades of Rafting

River rafting rapids in Rishikesh are generally categorised in 4 parts, Grade I, Grade II, Grade III, and Grade IV, all of which have increasing difficulties in ascending order. In this section, you can get a detailed idea about what to expect on each of these grades, how the experience will be, and major rapids to try from each grade.

Grade I: 
  • Difficulty level- Easy
  • Popular Rapids- Sweet Sixteen (Brahmpuri), Good Morning (Shivpuri/Brahmapuri), Black Money (Marine Drive)
Kind of Experience- 
  • Grade I rapids are easy to navigate and perfect for families or first-timers.
  • Short stretches, small waves, and easy obstacles make this level of rapids a great choice for kids as well.
Grade II
  • Difficulty level- Easy-Moderate
  • Popular Rapids- Club House (Brahmapuri), Double Trouble (Shivpuri), Hilton Rapid (Brahmapuri)
Kind of Experience-
  • These stretches exist with clear passages but uneven ground, making the rapids slightly more difficult to cross.
  • En route, there are stretches where tourists can enjoy cliff jumping.
  • It would be better to have a guide/instructor accompanying you in these rapids, especially if you are a first-timer.
Grade III
  • Difficulty level- Moderate-Difficult
  • Popular Rapids- Crossfire (Shivpuri/Marine Drive), Roller Coaster (Shivpuri), Golf Course (Shivpuri)
Kind of Experience- 
  • You can experience irregular waves in grade III rapids that rise as high as to splash over the whole raft.
  • The passages are narrow, and travellers can encounter big obstacles and rocks.
  • Only experienced rafters are recommended to cross these rapids, since they require good navigation skills and experience.
Grade IV
  • Difficulty level- Difficult
  • Popular Rapids- Daniel’s Dip (Kaudiyala), The Great Wall (Kaudiyala)
Kind of Experience-
  • Being the toughest of all rapids, you can expect high-speed river flow and big waves while navigating these rapids.
  • The rocky stretches and uneven ground add to the difficulty, and the boats have a greater chance of flipping over.
  • This can be the best choice of rapids if you are an expert or a professional looking for some exciting adventures.
Also Checkout: 5 Days 4 Nights Rishikesh Tour Packages
05

Routes for Rafting in Rishikesh

Brahmpuri Rafting
  • Starting/ending point- Brahmpuri Club House to NIM Beach
  • Distance covered- 9 km
  • Rapid Grade- Grade I to Grade II
  • Price range- Around INR 600
  • Time required- 1-2 hours
This is the easiest scratch for rafting, making it ideal for beginners, kids, and first-timers to try rafting. You can also book this activity while camping in Rishikesh to notch up your vacation!

Shivpuri Rafting
  • Starting/ending point- Shivpuri to NIM Beach
  • Distance covered- 16 km
  • Rapid Grade- Grades II to Grade III
  • Price range- INR 1000 approx.
  • Time required- 2-3 hours
The best way to experience rafting in this stretch is by going camping in Shivpuri, as it will save you the hassle of travel. You can start right near your camp and have easy access to the activity. 

Marine Drive Rafting
  • Starting/ending point- Marine Drive to NIM Beach
  • Distance covered- 26 km
  • Rapid Grade- Grade II to Grade III
  • Price range- INR 1500 approx
  • Time required- 3-4 hours
Offering a moderately difficult stretch for river rafting, this route can be a great choice for those looking forward to levelling up their experience. Ideal for intermediate rafters, this route can offer you optimum challenges to test and polish your skills.

Byasi Rafting
  • Starting/ending point- Byasi to NIM Beach 
  • Distance covered- 30 km
  • Rapid Grade- Grade III and above
  • Price range- Around INR 2500
  • Time required- 4-5 hours
This is a lesser-known stretch for river rafting in Rishikesh, ideal for those who are looking for a relatively peaceful experience without the usual tourist rush. It is recommended to have prior rafting experience before taking on this route since it poses some difficult (yet thrilling) stretches.

Kaudiyala Rafting
  • Starting/ending point- Kaudiyala to NIM Beach
  • Distance covered- 35 kms
  • Rapid Grade- Grade III and above
  • Price range- INR 2500 approx.
  • Time required-  5-5.5 hours
If you are an experienced and well-trained rafter, you can undertake this treacherous stretch for an unforgettable experience. With irregular waves and boulder-filled routes, travellers can have a highly adventurous time navigating the rapids on this 35 km stretch, which is a popular choice for adventure sports in Rishikesh.

Devprayag Rafting
  • Starting/ending point- Devprayag to Rishikesh NIM Beach
  • Distance covered- 70 kms
  • Rapid Grade- Grade III and above
  • Price range- INR 9000 onwards
  • Time required- 2 days (since it is an expedition)
This is the longest and toughest route for river rafting in Rishikesh. It is strongly suggested that only professionals and highly skilled rafters with good physical fitness and stamina undertake this journey. Travellers are required to camp overnight and set out rafting again to complete the distance within 2 days. There are all-inclusive packages offered by several operators as well, so travellers can opt for them.

Essential Information to Note While Rafting in Rishikesh

06

Equipment & Things to Carry for Rafting in Rishikesh

Equipment Provided:
These are the following equipment is provided by the tour operators for a fantastic river rafting experience in Rishikesh-
  • Life jackets
  • Helmets
  • Oars
  • Raft
  • Guide and instructor
What to carry for River Rafting in Rishikesh ?
Wondering about what to pack for a seamless rafting experience? Well, here goes the list of mandatory items-
  • Bathing suits or shorts and t-shirts for a comfortable experience
  • Water shoes or sneakers for footwear.
  • Extra towel, change of clothes, and swimming goggles
  • Sunscreen and sun-goggles that are fitted and suitable for rafting
  • Energy bars for quick refreshments, along with a water bottle
Also CheckoutPlaces to Visit in Rishikesh
07

Precautionary Measures and Safety Tips

No matter the season of rafting in Rishikesh, these measures must be observed while trying this activity-
  • Listen very carefully to the guide and follow their instructions.
  • Wear light, quick-dry clothes that repel moisture.
  • Make sure that your shoes/sandals are comfortable for the activity.
  • Your helmet and life jacket must be fitted and buckled at all times.
  • It is a team activity, so bond with your mates and help each other when in need.
Book Now3 Days Rishikesh Tour Packages
08

New Updates on Rafting in Rishikesh

The rafting operations in Rishikesh are going to be centralised for better functioning and management. For this, a new base station is to be created, the preparations for which is already underway. This will ensure a standardised booking system, attracting more travellers and enthusiasts to try this activity

Additionally, this INR 100 crore project is assumed to open up 1500 job opportunities, thereby sustaining the economic development of the region through tourism.

You Can Also BookFlying Fox in Rishikesh
09

What to avoid while rafting in Rishikesh?

Here are some of the things that you must avoid while rafting in Rishikesh-
  • Do not stand on the raft.
  • Avoid routes that can harm the raft or cause inconvenience (floating debris or boulders).
  • Avoid being intoxicated while undertaking this adventure activity.
  • Do not accept oversized life jackets or damaged items.
  • Pregnant women, asthma patients, and heart patients are discouraged from indulging in this activity.
  • Avoid wearing cotton clothes as they may make you fall sick due to the cold.
  • Do not wear flip-flops or other loose shoes.
Book NowGiant Swing in Rishikesh

People Also Ask About Rishikesh

  1. Which month is best for river rafting in Rishikesh?

    The summer months from March to June make for the ideal Rishikesh rafting season. During this time, the water rapids are at their best, the water flow is high, and the temperatures are also perfect. Rafting during this season can also offer you the chance to spot wildlife and birds in the surrounding jungles, and even try other activities like cliff jumping.
  2. When does the rafting season close in Rishikesh?

    Rafting season in Rishikesh closes on June 30th every year, and reopens around September or October, depending on the water and rapid conditions. This is because trying this activity during the monsoon season poses the risk of accidents and calamities, which are best avoided.
  3. What is the price for rafting in Rishikesh?

    The price for river rafting in Rishikesh starts from INR 600 and can go up to as high as INR 9000 or more. This price range depends on the route chosen, the distance covered, and whether or not other facilities like transportation and stays are included. 
  4. Do I need to get my own life jackets while rafting in Rishikesh?

    No, you do not need to get your own life jackets or other gear like helmets and oars while rafting in Rishikesh. All the equipment is provided by the operators, however, you must check if they are in perfect condition before accepting them.
  5. Is river rafting safe in Rishikesh?

    Yes, river rafting is a safe activity to try in Rishikesh. Guides and instructors accompany every raft that leaves the base station. Safety training and life jackets are also provided to all rafters for precautionary reasons. 
Newly Added Rishikesh Experience

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Places To Visit In Rishikesh

More Rishikesh Attractions

Ganga Aarti Rishikesh Tera Manzil Temple, rishikesh Beatles Ashram, rishikesh Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, rishikesh Neer Garh Waterfall, rishikesh Shivpuri, rishikesh Gita Bhavan, rishikesh Bharat Mandir, rishikesh Swarga Ashram, rishikesh Vashistha Cave, rishikesh Kunjapuri Temple Trekking, rishikesh Rishikund, rishikesh Muni Ki Reti, rishikesh Sivananda Ashram, rishikesh Omkarananda Ashram, rishikesh Swami Dayananda Ashram, rishikesh Sadhana Mandir, rishikesh Osho Gangadham, rishikesh Vishwa Shanti Yoga, rishikesh Maa Yoga Ashram, rishikesh Rishikesh School Of Yoga Vyasa Yoga Peeth, rishikesh Shiva Yoga Peeth, rishikesh Rishikesh Adventure Park, uttarakhand Anand Prakash Yoga Ashram, rishikesh Patanjali International Yoga Foundation, rishikesh Lakshman Jhula, rishikesh Ram Jhula, rishikesh Parmarth Niketan Ashram, rishikesh Triveni Ghat, rishikesh Camping In Rishikesh Parmarth Niketan Ashram, rishikesh Gita Bhavan, rishikesh Beatles Ashram, rishikesh Bungee Jumping Rishikesh Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, rishikesh Shivpuri, rishikesh Flying Fox Rishikesh Neer Garh Waterfall, rishikesh Ganga Aarti Rishikesh Rafting In Rishikesh Camping In Rishikesh Bungee Jumping Rishikesh Flying Fox Rishikesh Jumpin Heights, rishikesh Jumpin Heights, rishikesh Rafting In Rishikesh Sivananda Ashram, rishikesh Kunjapuri Temple Trekking, rishikesh Vyasa Yoga Peeth, rishikesh Vishwa Shanti Yoga, rishikesh Tera Manzil Temple, rishikesh Muni Ki Reti, rishikesh Maa Yoga Ashram, rishikesh Patanjali International Yoga Foundation, rishikesh Osho Gangadham, rishikesh Rishikund, rishikesh Swami Dayananda Ashram, rishikesh Vashistha Cave, rishikesh Swarga Ashram, rishikesh Rishikesh School Of Yoga Sadhana Mandir, rishikesh Bharat Mandir, rishikesh Omkarananda Ashram, rishikesh Anand Prakash Yoga Ashram, rishikesh Shiva Yoga Peeth, rishikesh
"Nestled in the midst of 9 hills offers breathtaking views of the Ganges. The camping experience is great. Hospitable staff. Food is decent. Weather is great. Its a little far off and drive might be a bit tiring considering lot of stoppages in the road up here due to road construction. If you expect it to be along the river on a beach then you shall be disappointed. In fact its located at a steep height from the road and for guys from the plains it shall be a pretty steep climb of 50 odd steps with luggage. For the price it offers a lovely memory. "
31 August 2019
Excellent
Camp located around hills which gave such a amazing view.. Gaurav and staff was so good..and so helpful and make us comfort so we can enjoy our full. Food, camp, cleaning and view all are amazing.. Thank you guyz..the camping was unforgettable for me and my friends..
25 June 2015
Excellent
The trekking experience was fine and good. To be honest, the trek was really good. We had a great time. It was one of the really nice treks that I have had.
13 June 2015
Excellent
We were hoping to feel tired and worn out but surprisingly despite the tough trek it was nice and enjoyable and we were with high energy levels even after the trek. This was definitely a nice trekking experience. We had some great memories to take back home and share. I really loved the whole travel too as it was a road trip for us.
10 April 2015
Excellent
I am out of words. This was a great trekking in Uttarakhand. The place is splendid and classy beauty. This is what a perfect vacation looks like.
22 March 2021
Very Good
Overall it was a nice experience at the camp. The members were supportive & cordial. The foods were tasty & good too. But the reception needed to improve soon as we reached Rishikesh for rafting.
26 February 2021
Excellent
The operator has enjoyed monopoly in India in bungee jumping for more than a decade now and truly deserves the same because of their world class infrastructure, equipment and trained staff. As for the activity, it is so thrilling in itself that gives the person a lifelong bragging right. The only suggestion I want to give to the operator is to manage the jumps of their guests on a strict first come first serve basis using a token number or something like that to avoid arguments among the guests at the jumping site.
08 February 2021
Excellent
It was an awesome experience overall. We went through the picturesque canal road and reached there. The camphouse was huge and the best part was that we were the only one there. The food is one of the best we've had in the Himalayas and I have visited the entire himachal. The breeze, the river view and pool are best. They took us to a nice small trek in the evening. Easy access to activities also. Service wise also these guys are the best, they let us connect our phone to the speakers for our music. Tents of nice qualities. Amazing time we had there.
15 January 2021
Excellent
Had a great experiance. We did trekking, rafting, bonfire and the place, view was really nice.
06 January 2021
Superb
Amazing experience. Has a great view of Ganges, surrounded by hills. The drive from Rishikesh isn't that great because of ongoing road construction plus reaching the campsite itself would be a small trek for some people. Great staff, good food. I traveled solo, met an amazing family there, so all in all it was a fun trip.

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