Everything you need to know before you hit the rapids — which stretch to pick, what it costs, what to wear, and how to tell a safe operator from a dangerous one.
Rishikesh is the rafting capital of India. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people come here to tackle the Ganges — and while most have an incredible experience, some run into operators who cut corners on safety. This guide tells you everything you need to know.
The Rafting Stretches
There are three main rafting stretches in Rishikesh, each suited to a different experience level:
Brahmpuri to Rishikesh (9km) — Grade 1–2 — Beginner
The calmest stretch. Perfect if you've never rafted before or are going with kids. Takes about 1.5 hours. More about the scenery than the rapids.
Marine Drive to Rishikesh (26km) — Grade 3–4 — Intermediate
The most popular stretch. Includes rapids like Roller Coaster, Golf Course, and Club House. Takes 4–5 hours. This is what most people mean when they say "Rishikesh rafting."
Kaudiyala to Rishikesh (36km) — Grade 4–5 — Advanced
For experienced rafters only. Includes the infamous Wall rapid (Grade 5). Not recommended for beginners under any circumstances.
What It Costs
- **Brahmpuri stretch:** ₹600–₹1,200 per person
- **Marine Drive stretch:** ₹1,200–₹2,500 per person
- **Kaudiyala stretch:** ₹2,500–₹4,000 per person
Prices vary by season (higher in October–November and February–March when water levels are ideal), group size, and operator. Don't just go for the cheapest — see below.
What's Usually Included
A proper package includes: rafting, life jacket, helmet, paddles, a trained guide in the raft, safety kayakers alongside, and transport from your camp/hotel to the put-in point. Some packages include cliff jumping and a riverside lunch.
What isn't included: waterproof bags (rent for ₹50–₹100), insurance, and tips for your guide.
Best Time to Go
**October–November:** Best water levels, weather is clear and cool after monsoon. Most popular season.
**February–March:** Second best. Water is lower but cleaner and more manageable for beginners.
**June–September:** Avoid. Monsoon makes water levels dangerously high and most operators shut down.
**December–January:** Possible but cold. Water temperature drops significantly.
Safety: What to Check
Before you book, ask:
- Are your guides certified by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation or state tourism board?
- What's your guide-to-rafter ratio? (Should be 1:8 maximum)
- Do you have safety kayakers alongside the raft?
- What's your emergency protocol if someone falls in?
- Is equipment (life jackets, helmets) ISI marked or internationally certified?
Any operator who gets annoyed by these questions — don't book with them.
What to Wear and Bring
Wear: swimwear or clothes you don't mind getting completely soaked. Quick-dry fabrics are ideal. Leave cotton at home — it stays wet and cold.
Bring: sunscreen (waterproof), sunglasses with a strap, a change of clothes, and leave your phone and valuables at the camp or in a waterproof bag.
Don't bring: cameras without waterproof cases, jewelry, or anything you'd be upset to lose in the river.
The Cliff Jumping Question
Many operators offer cliff jumping as an add-on (₹200–₹500). It's popular but not risk-free. Only jump from designated spots with a certified guide supervising. Never jump from unmarked spots or when instructed by other tourists — only when cleared by your guide.
WildRoute's Take
We're building WildRoute specifically because the Rishikesh rafting space is full of operators who look the same on the surface but are very different when it comes to safety and experience. When we launch, you'll be able to compare verified Rishikesh rafting operators side by side — certifications, reviews, pricing, safety record — all in one place.
Join the waitlist at www.gowildroute.com.
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