Rishikesh is a haven for thrill and adventure seekers, popular for its exciting white-water rafting on the holy Ganges River. While navigating through the exhilarating rapids, you can always choose the 9 km to 16 km courses that offer not only an adrenaline rush but breathtaking views as well. With its perfect mix of tranquility and adventure, you will feel the warm welcome of Rishikesh rafting, making it unforgettable for every thrill-seeking heart.
- River Rafting Duration: Daily 2 to 4 hours
- Minimum age: 14 Years
- Maximum weight: 100 Kg
- River Rafting Timings: 9 AM to 4 PM or 10 AM to 5 PM.
Rafting in Rishikesh
- Indulge your senses into the exciting atmosphere of rafting in Rishikesh. Plunge into the adventure with this breathtaking journey where you will reign over the fierce rapids of the holy white water of the Ganges River.
- You can choose from the 9 and 16-km rafting courses, each course is filled with thrilling rapids to satiate your lust for adventure.
- Experience the grade III & IV force of water and experience the stunning landscape.
- Stay safe and secure with the trained instructor, who will help you with the essential safety gear and share tips to ensure an exciting and safe trip.
- Paddle through the white crystal waters, and marvel at the beauty of the lush greenery and majestic mountains.
- You can experience the rafting at Rishikesh with a group of 8.
Rishikesh Road Distance Chart
- Delhi to Rishikesh: 240 km
- Haridwar to Rishikesh: 24 km
- Dehradun to Rishikesh: 45 km (Via Jolly Grant Airport)
- Mussoorie to Rishikesh: 77 km (Via Jolly Grant Airport)
- Meerut to Rishikesh: 169 km
- Rudraprayag to Rishikesh: 138 km
- Joshimath to Rishikesh: 251 km
- Lansdown to Rishikesh: 108 km
Rafting Packages We Offer
1. 9 Km Rafting from Bharmpuri
- Start point: Tapovan (20 minutes to 30-minute drive).
- End point: Before Laxman Jhula.
- 30 minutes for the preparation (Guide instructions, safety briefing inflating rafts, etc.)
- It takes approximately 1 hour to finish.
- Includes minimum 4 small and safe rapids.
- Price starts from Rs. 449/-
2. 16 Km Rafting from Shivpuri
- Start point: Tapovan (30 minutes – 1 hour drive).
- End point: Before Laxman Jhula.
- 30 minutes for the preparation (Guide instructions, safety briefing inflating rafts, etc.)
- Takes approximately 2 to 3 hours (depending on the water current) to finish.
- Includes a minimum of 7 big and small rapids.
- Some Popular rapids: Roller coaster, Clubhouse, and Golf Course.
- Price starts from Rs. 599/-
3. 26 Km Rafting from Marine Drive
- Start point: Tapovan (30 minutes to 1 hour drive).
- End point: Before Laxman Jhula.
- 30 minutes for the preparation (Guide instructions, safety briefing inflating rafts, etc.)
- Takes about 3 to 4 hours (depending on water current) to finish.
- Includes minimum 9 big & small rapids.
- Some Popular rapids: Roller coaster, Clubhouse, and Golf Course.
- Price starts from Rs. 1199/-
4. 35 Km Rafting from Kaudiyala
- Start point: Tapovan (30 minutes to 1 hour drive).
- End point: Before Laxman Jhula.
- 30 minutes for the preparation (Guide instructions, safety briefing inflating rafts, etc.)
- Takes about 5 to 6 hours (depending on water current) to finish.
- Includes a minimum of 12 big & small rapids.
- Some Popular rapids: Cross Fire, Roller Coaster, Daniel’s Dip, The Wall, and Three blind mice.
- Price starts from Rs. 1999/-
Hillway Travels Packages in Detail
Take a look at the detailed overview of the Rafting in Rishikesh stretches and packages with costs.
1. Brahmapuri to Rishikesh
Brahmapuri to Rishikesh is a short course, yet very exciting for first-time rafters and people of all ages can enjoy this expedition. If you don’t know how to swim, this is the recommended stretch. You can easily cover the 9 km stretch with the guidance of the trainers.
- Stretch Length: 9 Km
- Grade of Rapids: Grade 1 and Grade 2
- Major Rapids: Club House, Hilton, Double Trouble, Terminator and Sweet Sixteen
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Cost: INR 450 per person
2. Shivpuri to Rishikesh
The Shivpuri to Rishikesh course is 16 km long and offers both excitement and adventure. This is a very thrilling stretch, for people with no basic swimming knowledge can avoid it. Rafters have to stay in tight tension while coursing through this stretch, and that’s why it’s a great option for people with previous experience in rafting.
- Stretch Length: 16 Km
- Grade of Rapids: Grade 2 and Grade 3
- Major Rapids: Golf course, Roller Coaster, Return to Sender, and Double Trouble
- Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours
- Cost: INR 650 per person
3. Marine Drive to Shivpuri
If you are looking for a thrilling and safe rafting experience, you can opt for this course. All rafters with previous experience in rafting can choose this option. This rafting section is over Barahmpuri, and it’s a short adventure.
- Stretch Length: 10 Km
- Grade of Rapids: Grade 2 and Grade 3
- Major Rapids: Club House, Hilton, Double Trouble, Golf course, and Roller Coaster
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Cost: INR 600 per person
4. Marine Drive to Rishikesh
This stretch has a moderate difficulty level, but it’s nonetheless challenging. This section includes the Grade 2 and 3 rapids. After crossing Shivpuri, the rapids become less difficult, allowing you to enjoy the serene views of the mountain and the river. There are 14 rapids in this course and this is recommended for experienced rafters.
- Stretch Length: 24 Km
- Grade of Rapids: Grade 2 and Grade 3
- Major Rapids: Black Money, Golf Course, CrossFire, and Three Blind Mice
- Duration: 4 to 4.5 hours
- Cost: INR 850 per person
5. Kaudiyala to Rishikesh
This is a stretch for expert rafters only. This course is the most exciting one, with the most challenging rapids. The rapids in this course are difficult and require great skills and a level of strength to paddle through the strong streams. There are 4 to 5 rapids in this stretch, and it’s 36-kilometer stretch that takes approximately 8 hours to complete.
- Stretch Length: 36 Km
- Grade of Rapids: Grade 3, Grade 4, and Grade 5
- Major Rapids: Daniel’s Dip and The Wall
- Duration: 8 to 8.5 hours
- Cost: INR 1800 per person
Different Grades of Rapids for Rafting in Rishikesh
The white river rafting is numbered into different grades, and the fun part is you can experience the activity at any grade. There are a total of 5 grades that are suitable for beginners to experienced rafters. Here are the difficulty grades explained.
Grade 1: This is for beginners and at an easy level. If you are tasting the water for the first time in Rishikesh, you can choose the rapids like Black Money, Good Morning, and Sweet Sixteen.
Grade 2: This is a medium difficulty level. The rapids available are Shivpuri Rapid, located between Grade 2 and 3, Terminator, Double Trouble, Hilton, and Club House.
Grade 3: The rapids at this level require better skill, and it’s highly adventurous. The rapids here are Three Blind Mice, Golf Course, Roller Coaster, Sender, and Daniel’s Dip is between grade 3 and 4.
Grade 4: Grade 4 rapid is a challenging one. It requires skills and the experience of turning the raft. The Great Wall is a grade 4 rapid.
Grade 5: Grade 5 is only suitable for specialists. This level is very difficult and extremely dangerous. Daniel’s Dip is a Grade 5 rapid.
Inclusion
- Safety Kayaker
- Professional Guide
- Transportation
- Body Surfing
- Cliff Jumping
- Transport for starting to end point
- Expert guidance before start rafting
Exclusion
- Rafting Videography and photography are not included in the package. You will have to select it as an option.
- Personal expenses.
- Any transportation or meals that are not mentioned in the inclusion.
- Any damage or breakage of items will be charged.
Camping with Rafting in Rishikesh Costs
You can always choose to camp with Rishikesh rafting. Staying overnight under the twinkling stars in the Himalayan foothills will give you a different experience. Enjoy a night under the Milky Way, and listen to the soft sound of the river, savor a night of tranquility at the camp in Rishikesh. Have a hearty dinner around the bonfire and relish the time with friends.
- Camping, Meals, and 16 KM Rafting with Cliff Jumping: INR 1300.
- Camping with Meals Only: INR 800
- Camping, Meals, and 10 KM Rafting: INR 1200
Things to Pack for Rishikesh Rafting and Camping
- Clothing: Quick-dry clothes like a synthetic T-shirt, bathing suit, or gym shorts.
- Footwear: Sturdy shoes with straps. Avoid crocs or flip-flops.
- Sun protection: Sunscreen with SPF 40 or 50. Sunglasses with retainer strap, a hat with a brim.
- Camera: A waterproof camera.
- Water: A water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Waterproof pouch: To keep your money and phone safe from water.
- Personal items: Mosquito repellant cream, sanitizer, paper soap, toilet paper, shampoo, toothbrush, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste.
- Power board: A single power board to charge your gadgets.
Rafting in Rishikesh Price
Rafting in Rishikesh costs from INR 600 to INR 3000, depending on the selected course length. The packages of Hillway Travels include safety equipment and trainers’ guidance.
- Shivpuri to Rishikesh Rafting (16 KM): INR 550
- Barahmpuri to Rishikesh Rafting (9 KM): INR 390
- Marine Drive to Shivpuri Rafting (12 Km): INR 490
- Marine Drive to Rishikesh Rafting (26 Km): INR 790
- Kaudiyala to Rishikesh Rafting (36 Km): INR 1800
Things You Must Know
- White river rafting is not suitable for women who are more than 3 months pregnant, anyone with a major surgery wound, people with broken arms or legs, or any person with chronic neck or back pain.
- Depending on the weather, the rafting trip can be canceled, and if that happens, you will be informed about the next possible slot.
- Guests are not allowed to bring sharp objects like knives, blades, or inflammable objects like alcohol, lighters, etc.
- Consumption of alcohol before or after the activity is not recommended.
- Guests can carry an extra pair of clothes.
- All participants are requested to arrive at the venue at least 45 minutes before the selected time. Latecomers will not be allowed to participate in the rafting.
- Guests from foreign countries must bring their passports and visa at the entry gate.
- ID proofs are mandatory for Indian nationals.
- Participants can store their luggage in the service provider’s office.
- Early morning is a great time for rafting, so guests are advised to arrive at that time to have the best experience.
- Changing rooms are available on the spot.
Safety Travel Tips
- River rafting is a daunting activity, but it can be the safest one if you adhere to the instructions of the expert trainers before the expedition begins.
- It’s important to understand that rafting just before sunset is not recommended because you will not reach the starting point in the sunlight.
- Wear the life jacket or the floatation device properly.
- Wear all the trainer-recommended safety equipment to ensure safety.
- While rafting, hold the paddle firmly, as directed by the trainer.
- Refrain from panicking, as it will waste time.
Best Time to Visit Rishikesh for White River Rafting
Rishikesh is situated amidst the Himalayas, and for that, the weather mostly stays comfortable all year round. However, from May to June, the weather becomes very hot, so, it’s recommendable to visit Rishikesh from September to November for rafting and touring purposes.
You can also visit from late March to early May. In July, Rishikesh celebrates the Savan festival, and during this time the area becomes overcrowded and there’s hardly any hotels are available.
How to Reach Rishikesh
Rishikesh is easily reachable by air, train, and by road. You can select any option from your destination to reach the rafting location.
- By Air: The nearest airport is in Dehradun, Jolly Grant Airport. You can board a flight from Delhi, and from there you can easily take a cab and it will take only 45 minutes to reach Rishikesh.
- By Train: The closest railway station is Haridwar Junction. From any part of India you can arrive at Haridwar station, and from there hire a cab to reach the rafting spot in Rishikesh.
- By Car/Bus: New Delhi is the nearest city to Rishikesh, it’s about 221 km. You can book an AC bus from New Delhi, Dehradun, Meerut, or Ghaziabad.
What Other Things You Can Enjoy While in Rishikesh
Rishikesh isn’t only popular for river rafting, it’s famous for many other things like trekking, kayaking, cliff diving, bungee jumping, camping, and many more.
- Trekking: If you love the thrill of trekking through mountains, then Rishikesh has to offer an abundance of it. The mountains are filled with breathtaking beauty, dense forests, and glistening rivers. Your wanderlust will be satiated by hiking tours like Dodital Gaumukh, Har-Ki-Dun, and many more. You will easily find various special packages from private operators to ensure a fun and safe experience.
- Kayaking: Kayaking is another activity you can enjoy while in Rishikesh. Depending on your energy and skill opt for a kayaking experience on the Ganges. Choose the course length in Shivpuri and Rishikesh with tour operators and you will get the best prices.
- Cliff Diving: This activity is associated with white river rafting. You can choose this option with any private tour operator in Rishikesh, and they will take you to the area where the water flow is slow. This is a fun-filled activity, that requires much courage, but once you do it, it will be an invaluable experience.
- Camping: After completing the rafting experience, you can easily enjoy the natural beauty of the Himalayas by setting up a camp at the bank of the river. Thousands of tourists enjoy camping on the sandy beach of the Ganges in Rishikesh, and you should try this out as well.
- Bungee Jumping: Looking for some extreme sports in Rishikesh, then Bungee jumping is one of them. This is not for the faint-hearted just like the cliff jumping. You will be tied and secured with ankles and ropes before jumping from a great height. The elastic rope will be there to pull you back before having a cardiac arrest. This is an experience of a lifetime, so if you are up for it, give it a go in Rishikesh.
FAQs
Q. Is River Rafting in Rishikesh Safe?
Ans. Yes, it’s very safe to do rafting in Rishikesh. There are expert trainers with you to train and teach the nooks and crannies of rafting. Also, you will be equipped with safety gear.
Q. Is There a Specific Age Limit for Rafting in Rishikesh?
Ans. Yes, the minimum age should be 14 years. It’s regulated by the authorities responsible for rafting in the specific area for the safety of the rafters.
Q. What Should We Carry for Rafting in Rishikesh?
Ans. For this journey, you must carry a valid photo ID proof, extra sets of clothes, lightweight clothes, sleepers, and water bottles.
Q. What are the Costs of Rafting Packages in Rishikesh?
Ans. The cost of rafting in Rishikesh can range from INR 600 to INR 2000 per person, based on the length of the course. The prices include safety equipment and the guidance of the trainer. Check out the details of the cost with the course length.
- Marine Drive to Rishikesh Rafting (26 Km): INR 850
- Kaudiyala to Rishikesh Rafting (36 Km): INR 1800.
- Shivpuri to Rishikesh Rafting (16 KM): INR 650
- Barahmpuri to Rishikesh Rafting (9 KM): INR 450
- Marine Drive to Shivpuri Rafting (12 Km): INR 600
Q. Is it necessary to know how to swim before going for river rafting in Rishikesh?
Ans. No, it’s not necessary to know how to swim before opting for rafting in Rishikesh. You will be equipped with a PFD or lifejacket, which will provide extra flotation if you fall in the waters.
Parting Thoughts
As the sun sets over the horizon, the glimmering light on the river will always remind you of the day’s adventure, and Rishikesh will always stand as the testament to the soul of exploration. The bond with the fellow rafters, the serene moments, and undeniably the adrenaline rush make Rishikesh river rafting a haven for thrill and adventure seekers. So, if you are wondering how to get a taste of this exhilarating journey, choose Hillway Travel rafting packages today!