Choose the Best Stretch for Rafting in Rishikesh

The capital of white water rafting in India, Rishikesh calls out to the adventure buffs from all over the world. There isn’t a better feeling than swirling in the emerald water of Ganges that runs parallel to the lofty chain of mountains. While whirling through the rapids on a urethane float called a Raft, you will forget everything and shall literally ‘Go with the flow!’ An out of the box experience for a first-timer and a hearty one for veterans, white water rafting in Rishikesh is simply a must-do in India.

There are basically four rafting points in Rishikesh that differs in distance, difficulty level and number of rapids and grade of rapids (I, II, III, and IV) and in order to fully enjoy rafting it is a must to know which point or stretch would be better for an individual. Therefore, we bring to you the details of each rafting point that will help you make the right decision. Let’s swirl together to find the RIGHT KIND of FUN for you!

Brahampuri to Rishikesh

Stretch: 9kms

Duration: 1.5hrs to 2hrs

Major Rapids: Body Surfing and Sweet Sixteen

This rafting stretch is ideal for any amateur rafter. Also, if you are first timer and have a slight phobia of water, this stretch will help you overcome it. It takes at least 1.5 to 2 hours to cover the stretch, where you will find Grade I and II rapids like Body Surfing, Sweet Sixteen, Double Trouble, Hilton and Terminator. These rapids are mild and can be crossed without even flinching; they offer just the right amount of excitement for old people, families, school groups and kids. The Ganga takes you nice and slow on its emerald water and gives the opportunity to look at the lofty mountains and the numerous yoga centres and hotels that run parallel to the river making the city ever so fascinating. Mild water splashes, cool breeze and the dip in the water (optional) are added fun elements on this stretch. Brahampuri to Rishikesh stretch is ideal for rafting with a family that has older people and kids (8 years old and above); it is also appropriate for beginner level rafters.

Shivpuri to Rishikesh

Stretch: 16kms

Duration: 3hrs to 3.5hrs

Major Rapids: Return to Sender, Golf Course, Roller Coaster, Double trouble etc.

Rafting gets better if you choose Shivpuri to Rishikesh stretch. It is a 16kms stretch that has Grade II and III rapids like Return to Sender, Roller Coaster and Golf Course. River Ganga seems to show its frolic side with rapids becoming fierce and the rocky barriers starting to obstruct the raft. The strikingly fast flowing water conduces to the adventure of rafting. The rippling boat over stern water certainly brings the goose bumps and the sound of the rapid that is about to approach makes one’s heart skip a beat. As you whirl past one rapid after the other, your paddles becoming weighty and breath heavier, and you shall definitely learn the meaning of true adventure. Shivpuri to Rishikesh is one of the most popular rafting stretch in Rishikesh as it is neither too difficult nor too easy; it offers the right blend of thrill and ease. This stretch is perfect for adventure buffs, second-timers and youngsters who would like to add excitement to their rafting experience.

Marine Drive to Rishikesh

Stretch: 24kms

Duration: 4.5hrs to 5hrs

Major Rapids: Three Blind Mice, Black Money and Cross Fire

The whimsical River Ganga in this stretch takes the rafters on an unforgettable adventure ride. In Marine Drive to Rishikesh stretch one encounters Grade II and III rapids like Black Money, Three Blind Mice, Shivpuri Rapid and Cross Fire which are difficult yet full of excitement. It is an arduous 24kms stretch that demands lot of strength and energy to complete. The fast-flowing water becomes notorious when you move toward a rapid; you may hang in the air sometimes and every so often feel that a bucketful of water is thrown in an instance on you. About 14 rapids in total are faced by a rafter in this stretch; some are minor while others will compel you to change your idea of adventure! The stretch after Shivpuri becomes less rigorous allowing you to relax and contemplate the beautiful surroundings. Marine Drive to Rishikesh stretch is ideal for people who have already tried rafting and hold expertise; this stretch prepares you for the Kaudiyala to Rishikesh stretch as well.

Kaudiyala to Rishikesh

Stretch: 36kms

Duration: 7hrs to 8hrs

Major Rapid: Daniel Dip and The Great Wall

Adventure at its best! Kaudiyala to Rishikesh stretch is strictly for experts. This unbridled 36kms stretch faces one of the most difficult rapids in Rishikesh called ‘The Wall’. Being a Grade IV+ rapid, it demands ample of strength, team effort and precision to cross it. There are about 13 rapids between Kaudiyala to Rishikesh rafting stretch and along with The Wall Daniel’s Dip and the Eddy Whirlpool churns up the adventure for this stretch. The water becomes perilous and the rapids ever so sinister giving rafters a tremendous dose of thrill and shrill throughout this ride. The raging sound of the Wall from half a mile is enough to make even an expert rafter anxious. The cold sweat and fast pumping heart defies all expertise and experience in a flash of second as the Wall is infamous for flipping 9 out of 10 boats effortlessly. Each year several expert rafters attempt Kaudiyala to Rishikesh stretch in the hope of getting success; many of them have even managed to realize their dreams thereby becoming an inspiration for others. As dangerous as it sounds, this stretch is equally exhilarating and is absolutely once in a lifetime experience.

Note:

The best season for white water rafting adventure in Rishikesh is between mid September and November and again between March and May. Best Rishikesh rafting packages would include rafting and camping coupled with other adventure activities like bungee jumping, cliff jumping and fox flying.

You can never be short of fun if you have opted for rafting in Rishikesh and after reading this blog, we hope you have found the rafting stretch suitable for you. We suggest that you plan a trip during the above mentioned months to avail yourself of an incredible holiday in Rishikesh. Also, make a careful choice while picking a stretch so that the fun remains uninterrupted. Happy Whirling!!