Rafting in Rishikesh is the perfect activity for travelers wanting an adventure on the Ganges River! It’s an exciting way to embrace nature and see Rishikesh. Whether it’s your first time rafting or it’s a hobby, this guide has everything you need to know to embark on this incredible journey!

You have to try rafting in Rishikesh if you are lucky enough to visit the city! This guide has the answers to all of your questions, like the best time to go rafting, types of rapids, safety, what to wear, finding a good tour group, what to expect during the day, and more!

First of all, Rishikesh is in the northern part of India in Uttarakhand and is a popular tourist destination for outdoor enthusiasts and spiritual seekers. While there’s a lot of things to do in and around the city, white water rafting in Rishikesh is truly an unforgettable adventure!

Rafting in Rishikesh involves taking a tour group up the famous Ganges River and riding the currents through the surrounding areas and into the city. It’s the perfect opportunity to embrace nature, cleanse yourself in the sacred Ganges, and see Rishikesh from a beautiful view.

I had gone rafting twice before going rafting in Rishikesh, and I was by no means an expert! It’s perfect for beginners and fun for thrill-seekers alike. I’d highly recommend it for anyone who is looking for a nature-type activity and an adrenaline rush! And if you’ve never rafted before, I promise, it’s not so scary!

This post is all about rafting in Rishikesh.

Rafting in Rishikesh: Tips and FAQ’s

Why is rafting in Rishikesh so special?

Rishikesh is a beautiful city on the foothills of the Himalayas and on the banks of the Ganges River! That being said, it’s no question why it’s such a popular tourist destination. 

The area is famous for its stunning nature and lush greenery surrounded by mountains. The Ganges River is also extremely important to India and has been a source of life for thousands of generations. It’s a sacred river and one dip is believed to purify your soul and bring you closer to enlightenment.

Rafting in Rishikesh combines the fun and excitement of rafting while also giving you a chance to see the stunning views, immerse yourself in the river, and see the city from a new perspective!

Is it safe for beginners?

Yes! Most people who go rafting in Rishikesh are tourists who have very little or no experience ever rafting. The tour guides are completely prepared for this and will take you on a path that is suitable for your skill level. 

Rafting in Rishikesh is ideal for many travelers because there are many path options depending on what level you are looking for. There are more difficult courses for more experienced rafters too. 

Overall, it’s very safe and the perfect place for travelers looking to try rafting for the first time. The guides will also go over safety instructions and protocols before you start the adventure!

What kind of rapids can I expect?

You can find a wide range of rapids while rafting in Rishikesh. It will depend on what stretch of the Ganges you choose and also the water level when you go. Your guide will help you decide the best course for you depending on your skill level and what kind of experience you are seeking.

Rishikesh has options from Grade 1 (minimal waves, no obstacles, perfect for first-timers) all the way up to Grade 4 (really difficult and only for very advanced rafters). I did a Grade 1 course and it was a blast! Still an adventure but completely manageable and not terrifying.

The most common route for rafters is from Shivpuri to Rishikesh. It’s 16km and very easy for beginners with beautiful views! There are shorter routes and more challenging ones, but for most tourists this is perfect.

When is the best time to go rafting in Rishikesh?

September – November and March – May are the best times to go rafting in Rishikesh. These are the times with reasonable weather, clear skies and no rain.

Don’t go rafting from mid November – February as it’s winter time and freezing cold.

Rafting is also not allowed from June – October because it is monsoon season, meaning it rains every day and the water is not suitable for rafting.

How can I find a good tour group to go with?

There are literally so many tour groups that can take you rafting! Just be sure to prioritize safety over price. Most tour groups are authorized and have certifications in water sports and safety. If you see a tour group offering a suspiciously low price, it’s better to avoid them as they may not have the same safety certifications as other groups.

If you are staying at a hotel, you can always ask them as they probably have a one or two to recommend. I stayed in the Tapovan area of Rishikesh and the main street was totally filled with different tour groups that offer rafting, so it is very easy to find.

How many people can go in a group?

The rafts can hold 8 people plus the guides. If you are a group of 6 or less, you will likely be combined with other tourists in a raft.

How experienced are the guides?

The guides are typically very experienced and well-trained. They know the river very well and the challenges.

Rafting in Rishikesh is a popular tourist activity, and guides are used to bringing groups that have no experience with rafting. They are prepared to make it safe and also a fun time! Along with guiding you through the river, they will also start different cheers and keep the energy high. You will see groups cheering if you sit along the river and watch rafters go by!

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes, you should book in advance. If you are planning to do rafting in Rishikesh on a weekend or during peak season, you should book far ahead of time to get the best time slot and price. At the very least during a less busy time, you will need to contact the tour company a day prior to arrange the time and plans.

Are there age or any other restrictions for rafting in Rishikesh?

Most tour groups allow people 12-14 and older to go rafting. People over the age of 60 are not allowed to raft (regardless of their health) due to government rules.

You should not go rafting if you have any serious heart or health issues, or if you are pregnant. If you need to carry any medications with you, most tour guides will have a dry pouch they can take it in. Talk with your tour group if you have any questions about your health!

What does the day look like and how long does a typical rafting session last?

You will decide a pick-up point with your tour group to start the day, likely in Rishikesh at their company or else near your hotel. They will pick you up in a big jeep and take you to the starting point of the course you have chosen. Be prepared that traffic can get pretty slow during peak season so it can be a while (it can take an hour or more!)

Rafting sessions will vary on what route you go on and the distance you choose. For most people rafting from Shivpuri to Rishikesh, it’s about 2-3 hours of rafting. 

Afterwards, the jeep will pick you up from the end point and bring you back to where you started the day.

Can I swim in the Ganges? Can I raft even if I don’t know how to swim?

Yes and yes! The guides will give you opportunities to get out of the raft when the water is safe so you can swim and float along the river. You are required to wear a life jacket the entire time, so even if you don’t know how to swim it is safe.

If you are a beginner, it is highly unlikely that your raft would tip over on the easy courses in Rishikesh. But in any case, the guides will prepare you for what to do in case that happens before you start the journey.

This part of the river is very clean. It’s coming from the mountains and you’re at the foothills of the Himalayas!

What should I wear for rafting in Rishikesh?

Wear light-weight, quick-dry clothing. I wore yoga capris and a quick drying athletic t-shirt. My husband wore shorts and a t-shirt. You should also bring extra dry clothes to change into afterwards.

I don’t recommend wearing a swimsuit because most people are more covered (meaning this for ladies). Also depending when you go it can be quite cold. But you could wear a swimsuit under shorts and a tank if you want.

Wear old tennis shoes, water shoes, or sandals with a strap on the back. Don’t wear flip flops or other sandals that might fall off!

The guides will give you helmets and life jackets which you are required to wear the entire time.

Can I bring my phone or camera?

Yes, but double check with your guides! Most guides will carry a dry pouch for phones and will tell you when is a safe time to get them out and take pictures.

You can also carry a dry pouch for yourself if you prefer. Just be really careful that it’s kept dry and you don’t drop it in the river! A go-pro or waterproof camera is also a great option.

What should I bring with me?

Along with wearing light-weight, quick drying clothes, bring a change of clothes for afterwards. You can also bring sunglasses, dry pouch, phone, money, and snacks (for the ride to and from if you want).

Don’t bring anything especially important like a passport as there is always the risk it could get wet or lost.

How much does it usually cost?

The price will depend on which area you want to go rafting in Rishikesh and the distance you want to travel. Expect to pay around 1000-2000 per person for the typical tourist beginner experience.

Most importantly, have fun rafting in Rishikesh!

It’s an adventure and a memory you’ll always treasure. If you have any questions, you can always ask your guide and they will be happy to help! It can be scary at first, especially if you’ve never gone rafting before, but it is totally worth it!

Have a great journey and leave a comment if you have any other questions, I’d love to help! If you’re traveling around Uttrakhand or other places in the northeast, check out these Best Places to Visit in India by State!

This post was all about rafting in Rishikesh.