Rafting in Rishikesh runs on the Ganga along the Badrinath highway. The four common stretches are about 9, 16, 26 and 35 km long, and they finish near NIM Beach by Laxman Jhula. The season usually runs from mid-September to mid-June. First-timers usually start with the 9 km or 16 km stretch; the longer ones suit fitter, more confident groups.
This guide explains how the stretches differ, when to go, who rafting suits, what to check about safety, and how we arrange rafting from Tapovan.
The four rafting stretches
Trips start at beaches upstream of Rishikesh and finish near NIM Beach. The further upstream you start, the longer and more demanding the trip.
| Stretch | Approx. distance | How demanding | Time on the river | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brahmpuri | About 9 km | Gentle | 1–2 hrs | First-timers, young families, anyone nervous about water |
| Shivpuri | About 16 km | Moderate | 2–3 hrs | A common first rafting trip, with real rapids |
| Marine Drive | About 24–26 km | More challenging | 3–4½ hrs | Fit groups who want bigger rapids |
| Kaudiyala | About 35 km | Most demanding | Most of a day | Experienced, fit adults and confident swimmers |
Distances and timings are approximate and vary with the operator and the water level.
How to choose. If you are new to rafting, or nervous about water, start with a shorter stretch. It builds confidence, and most people come back wanting more. If you want a proper rafting experience without getting worn out, Shivpuri is the one to pick. The longer stretches, Marine Drive and Kaudiyala, are for experienced rafters and fit people. Kaudiyala is a full-day trip, so pick it only if everyone is fit and a confident swimmer.
When is the rafting season in Rishikesh?
Rafting usually runs from mid-September to mid-June, depending on when the river has dropped after the monsoon and been cleared for the season. It is closed through the monsoon because the river is too high. Shorter stretches usually open first; Marine Drive and Kaudiyala tend to follow as the water drops.
| Months | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Mid-Sept–Nov | The season opens. The best rapids come from mid-October, as the monsoon water recedes. The water is cool. |
| Dec–Feb | Cold, with fewer crowds. Wetsuits are usually offered. |
| Mar–mid-Jun | Warmer, and the best months to beat the heat. A popular time for the longer stretches. |
Exact dates change each year with the monsoon and the official clearance for the river. Ask us before you fix your plans.
Who is rafting in Rishikesh suitable for?
Most healthy people can raft the shorter stretches. The right stretch depends on age, fitness and swimming ability, and the rules differ between operators.
- First-timers and non-swimmers. Usually fine on Brahmpuri and Shivpuri with a life jacket and a guide. Kaudiyala normally expects basic swimming.
- Families. Age limits apply. Commonly the minimum is 14 for Shivpuri and Marine Drive and 18 for Kaudiyala, and some operators allow younger children on Brahmpuri.
- Couples and friends. Shivpuri is the usual choice; Marine Drive if you want more rapids.
- Schools and colleges. We plan group trips separately. Tell us the group size, ages and dates, and we will send a proposal.
- Health. If anyone has a back, neck, shoulder or heart problem, or is pregnant, tell us before booking and check with a doctor first.
How safe is rafting in Rishikesh?
Rafting is an adventure activity with real risk, and you can end up in the water on any stretch with rapids. What lowers the risk is the quality of the operator and the match between the stretch and your group, not the brochure. Before you book with anyone, ask:
- Who exactly runs the trip, and what registrations or permits do they hold for river rafting?
- How are the guides trained, and how long have they rafted this stretch?
- Does everyone get a life jacket and helmet in good condition, and is there a safety briefing before you start?
- How many people go in each raft, and what rescue or support is on the river?
- What happens if the water level is high or the weather turns?
- Is this stretch right for the youngest, oldest and least confident person in your group?
If an operator cannot answer these clearly, choose another one.
Who runs the rafting we arrange?
Adventure Factory is a trip planner and curator based in Tapovan, Rishikesh. We do not operate every activity ourselves. We arrange rafting with local operators who hold the registrations and permits required for the activity, and the operator runs the trip on the river. We plan it with you: which stretch, which date, and what suits your group.
How much does rafting in Rishikesh cost?
Rafting is priced per person, and the price depends on the stretch, the season, your group size, transport and what is included. There is no single standard rate. Operators advertise very different prices for the same stretch, so compare what each price includes, not just the headline number.
Ask whether these are included:
- Transport to the start point and back
- Life jacket, helmet and wetsuit in cold months
- A trained guide for your raft
- Photos or video
- Refreshments
- Any extra fees or taxes
We price our trips by your dates and group size. Send us those details and we will reply with options and a quote. You can read more on how our pricing works.
What to wear and carry
- Wear: swimwear or quick-dry shorts and a t-shirt, and secure footwear that can get wet, such as sports sandals. Avoid jeans and loose jewellery.
- Carry: a change of clothes, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses with a strap and drinking water.
- Leave behind: wallets and valuables. Take a phone only in a waterproof pouch, and only if the operator allows it.
- Cold months: bring warm layers for before and after. A wetsuit or thermal wear is usually provided.
- Do not raft after drinking alcohol.
How to book rafting with Adventure Factory
- Message or call us with your dates, number of people, ages, and whether anyone cannot swim.
- We suggest a stretch and an operator, and send a quote for your group.
- You confirm the date and pick-up details.
If the river is closed or unsafe on your day, the trip can be rescheduled or cancelled.
WhatsApp or call: +91 99101 74883
Tripti Boutique Hotel, Main Badrinath Highway, Tapovan, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Want something longer than a rafting day? Plan a custom trip with us, or get in touch.
Rafting in Rishikesh: common questions
Is rafting in Rishikesh suitable for beginners?
Yes. The 9 km and 16 km stretches are the usual choice for first-timers, and rafts normally go out with a trained guide.
Can non-swimmers go rafting?
Usually yes on the shorter stretches, wearing a life jacket. Kaudiyala normally expects basic swimming.
What is the minimum age?
Commonly 14 for Shivpuri and Marine Drive and 18 for Kaudiyala; it varies by operator.
How long does a rafting trip take?
From an hour or two on the water for Brahmpuri to most of a day for Kaudiyala. Add time to travel to the start point.
Where does rafting start and finish?
It starts at beaches along the Badrinath highway upstream of Tapovan and finishes near NIM Beach by Laxman Jhula.
What if it rains or the river is high?
Rafting can be paused or cancelled when conditions are unsafe. In that case, a refund will not be guaranteed.
By Adventure Factory. Last updated 2 November 2026.