River rafting in Rishikesh is one of those experiences that you keep replaying in your head long after the trip is over. The rush of cold Ganga water hitting your face, the instructor yelling “paddle hard,” your heart doing that weird thing where it wants to stop but also beat faster at the same time. I went through all of this during my Shivpuri trip, and in this second part of the adventure bathing series, I want to share what river rafting and cliff jumping at Rishikesh actually feel like, along with all the practical details you need to plan your own trip in 2026.
If you have not read the first part yet, I recommend starting there. It covers river bathing in the Ganga and canyoning at Shivpuri. You can read it here: Adventure Activities in Rishikesh – River Bathing, Canyoning and More.
Quick Info: River Rafting and Cliff Jumping in Rishikesh at a Glance
| Activity | Details |
| Location | Shivpuri to Rishikesh, Uttarakhand |
| Best Time | October to June (closed during monsoon) |
| Rafting Season | 15 September to 30 June |
| Rafting Cost (Shivpuri 16 km) | Rs 1,000 per person + Rs 20 entry fee |
| Rafting Cost (Marine Drive 24 km) | Rs 1,500 per person + Rs 20 entry fee |
| Cliff Jumping Cost | Usually included with rafting package |
| Duration (Shivpuri stretch) | 2.5 to 3 hours |
| Duration (Marine Drive stretch) | 4 to 5 hours |
| Swimming Required? | No, life jackets provided |
| Age Limit | 14 to 50 years |
| Weight Limit | 35 kg to 100 kg |
| Nearest City | Dehradun (45 km), Delhi (240 km) |
What Are the Rafting Stretches Available in Rishikesh?
Rishikesh offers five different rafting stretches along the Ganga, each varying in distance, difficulty, and the number of rapids you encounter. The starting points range from Brahmpuri (closest to Rishikesh, easiest rapids) all the way to Kaudiyala (longest and most intense). Here is a quick breakdown of each stretch so you can choose based on your comfort level and how much adrenaline you are looking for.
| Starting Point | Distance | Duration | Rapids Grade | Cost Per Person (2026) |
| Brahmpuri | 9 km | 1 to 1.5 hours | Grade I-II | Rs 600 + Rs 20 fee |
| Shivpuri | 16 km | 2.5 to 3 hours | Grade II-III | Rs 1,000 + Rs 20 fee |
| Marine Drive | 24 km | 4 to 5 hours | Grade III-IV | Rs 1,500 + Rs 20 fee |
| Byasi | 30 km | 5 to 6 hours | Grade III-IV | Rs 2,000 + Rs 20 fee |
| Kaudiyala | 34 km | 6 to 7 hours | Grade III-IV | Rs 2,500 + Rs 20 fee |
Keep in mind that the Shivpuri stretch is the most popular choice for first-timers. It has enough rapids to get your heart pumping without being so intense that you spend the whole time being scared. The Marine Drive stretch is what I did, and honestly, it was the best decision I made. 4 to 5 hours on the water, right through the heart of the hills, with rapids like Black Money, Cross Fire, and the famous Golf Course rapid.
How Was My River Rafting Experience at Rishikesh?
It was Day 2 of our Shivpuri trip, and many of us woke up early for nature walks around the camp. After some chai, a couple of rounds of volleyball, and breakfast, it was finally time for the main event: river rafting.
We hiked back to the road where our vehicle was waiting to drop us at Marine Drive, the starting point for this mammoth 4 to 5 hour wet and wild experience. For the first time, our group was split up. The familiar faces were replaced by strangers from other groups. Out of around 100 people present that morning, only 4 from our original group stayed together in one raft, with 4 new members joining us. There were a few objections, but the instructors were firm about mixing the groups.
The instructor gave us clear instructions on paddling techniques and safety rules. The raft launched smoothly. It required little force at the beginning, the water was calm. But then the first rapid came. I was sitting in front, and I quickly realized there was no foot support up there. The instructor noticed me scrambling for grip and just smiled. That cheeky smile told me everything I needed to know about what was coming 🙂
What Does It Feel Like When the First Rapid Hits?
As the first rapid approached, sitting in the front seat and watching the wave form was something else entirely. My heart was in my mouth. One splash, and I was completely drenched. For a moment I thought, why the hell am I here? But then I got my senses back, told myself to stay calm, and braced for the next one, which was bigger. With controlled nerves, the second rapid went smoothly, and from that point on, I started enjoying every bit of it.
The raft sailed over the Ganga right through the hills, as if we were on some new kind of pathway. A pathway with wavy waters, no traffic, and one that made you wet every few minutes. It was a different feeling, something far more intense than the canyoning experience from the previous night. After 3 or 4 rapids, I felt like there could be nothing better than this. A little bit scary, a little bit fun 🙂
What Is Body Surfing During Rafting Like?
To take things a step further, I jumped into the water during a calm stretch and held onto the lifeline ropes along the side of the raft. Floating on the Ganga in the middle of the wilderness, looking up at the forested hills, I went into a kind of trance for about 20 minutes. The water was cold, the current was gentle in that stretch, and it felt like the river was carrying me through a different world.
Then the instructor called me back in. A major rapid was approaching. He called it Golf Course, if I remember correctly. There were special instructions for this one because the water level was high that day, and the guide believed there were real chances of the raft flipping. We were all anxious. The milky white waters ahead looked fierce. The person sitting next to me whispered that he did not understand a word the guide said because he did not speak Hindi. That added another layer of nervousness to the whole situation 🙂
Less than 2 minutes of heart pounding action, and by God’s grace, we made it through, completely drenched. We saw a few rafts ahead of us that had toppled. The operators actually stopped the groups behind us and asked them to cross that section on foot to avoid any casualties. The rest of the journey up to Rishikesh was calm and serene, just simple paddling with the hills watching over us.
What Is Cliff Jumping at Rishikesh and How Does It Work?
Cliff jumping is exactly what it sounds like. You climb up to the top of a large boulder or cliff along the river bank, and you jump straight down into the water below. In Rishikesh, cliff jumping spots are usually 15 to 40 feet high. Most operators include a cliff jumping stop as part of the rafting package, so you do not have to pay extra for it. Keep in mind, though, you do need to be wearing a life jacket, and the instructors will be in the water below to help if needed.
How Was My Cliff Jumping Experience?
As soon as the rafting ended and the crew started loading the rafts onto pickup trucks, one of the instructors came over and asked a bunch of us to follow him. He led us through a zigzag path to the top of a huge boulder. Then he smiled, took a running start, and jumped right off into the river below.
We looked down. He was waving at us from the water, calling us to jump. And that is when it hit me, this was cliff jumping.
My friends stepped back a little, but I cautiously went to the edge and looked down. It was a good 15 to 18 feet drop straight into the Ganga. And I do not know how to swim. The adrenaline was pumping, and everyone behind me started cheering me on. A round of prayers, a deep breath with a tightly sealed mouth, and I threw myself off the boulder.
2 to 3 seconds of freefall. My heart stopped, I think. A big splash. I was deep underwater, and for a moment I could not find the surface. It took another 3 to 4 seconds to come back up, and I was so relieved to find myself alive. Water was everywhere, in my eyes, nose, ears, mouth. But I was grinning like crazy 😀
That fall makes your brain work at incredible speed. In those few seconds of freefall, I swear I remembered things from years ago. It was a moment to overcome fear, a moment to feel different, a moment I will carry with me for a very long time. My friends followed after me, and soon others from the group were jumping too. We kept at it until the light faded and we could barely see each other from a distance. The evening ended with a bonfire and a lovely dinner before we crashed for the night.
Something changed in me that day. I no longer feared deep water as much, even though I still do not know how to swim. There is something about facing a fear head-on that rewires your brain a little bit. In case you are wondering whether non-swimmers should try cliff jumping, yes, absolutely. The life jacket keeps you afloat, and the instructors are right there in the water. Just make sure you seal your mouth and nose before the jump.
How Much Does River Rafting Cost in Rishikesh in 2026?
River rafting prices in Rishikesh are quite affordable, especially when you compare it to adventure sports in other countries. Here is a detailed cost breakdown for 2026 so you can budget your trip properly.
| Item | Cost (2026) |
| Brahmpuri Rafting (9 km) | Rs 600/person |
| Shivpuri Rafting (16 km) | Rs 1,000/person |
| Marine Drive Rafting (24 km) | Rs 1,500/person |
| Byasi Rafting (30 km) | Rs 2,000/person |
| Kaudiyala Rafting (34 km) | Rs 2,500/person |
| Entry Fee | Rs 20/person (all stretches) |
| Cliff Jumping | Usually included with rafting |
| Camping (Shivpuri, per night) | Rs 1,200 to Rs 3,000/person |
| Bungee Jumping (Mohanchatti) | Rs 3,700/person |
| Giant Swing | Rs 3,500/person |
The rafting cost includes pickup from the rafting office in Rishikesh, transport to the starting point, the rafting guide, life jackets, helmets, and all required equipment. You do not need to bring anything except a change of dry clothes and waterproof bags for your phone and wallet. Most operators also offer GoPro video recording for an additional Rs 500 to Rs 1,000.
What Are the Best Rapids to Experience in Rishikesh?
The Ganga in the Rishikesh stretch has rapids ranging from Grade I (easy, gentle waves) to Grade IV (intense, requires experienced paddling). Here are some of the most famous rapids you will encounter depending on which stretch you choose.
Shivpuri Stretch (16 km): Roller Coaster (Grade III), Return to Sender (Grade III), Golf Course (Grade III), Double Trouble (Grade II), and Hilton (Grade II). The Golf Course rapid is the one that flipped rafts during my trip, so do not take it lightly.
Marine Drive Stretch (24 km): All the Shivpuri rapids plus Black Money (Grade III), Cross Fire (Grade III), Three Blind Mice (Grade III), and The Wall (Grade III). This is the stretch I would recommend if you want the full experience. 4 to 5 hours of rafting with over 12 rapids is hard to beat.
Kaudiyala Stretch (34 km): Includes all of the above plus Daniel Dip (Grade IV), The Wall (Grade IV), and several unnamed Grade III rapids. This stretch is for experienced rafters or those who really want to push their limits. I would not recommend it for first-timers.
What Safety Tips Should You Follow for Rafting and Cliff Jumping?
Adventure sports carry inherent risks, and river rafting is no exception. Having done it myself and seen rafts flip during the same session, here are some practical safety tips that I strongly recommend.
1. Always wear your life jacket properly. This sounds obvious, but I saw people loosening their jackets during calm stretches. Do not do this. A rapid can come up fast, and a loose jacket will ride up over your head during a fall.
2. Listen to every word the instructor says. During the Golf Course rapid, the person next to me could not understand Hindi and missed critical safety instructions. If you do not speak Hindi, tell the instructor beforehand so they can explain in English.
3. Hold the paddle correctly. Your grip on the paddle determines whether you stay in the raft or fall out. The T-grip at the top should always be in your hand, never let go of it even during rapids.
4. If you fall into the water, float on your back. Feet downstream, toes up. Do not try to stand in moving water because your foot can get trapped between rocks. Let the current carry you and wait for the rescue kayak.
5. For cliff jumping, seal your mouth and nose. I learned this the hard way. Water rushing into your nose from a 15-foot drop is not a pleasant feeling. Cross your arms over your chest, feet together, and jump straight, not at an angle.
6. Check the operator’s credentials. Make sure your rafting operator is certified by the Uttarakhand Tourism Department. Government-certified operators follow proper safety protocols including safety kayaks, first aid kits, and trained rescue swimmers.
How to Plan a Rafting Trip to Rishikesh from Delhi in 2026?
Planning a rafting trip from Delhi is straightforward. Rishikesh is about 240 km from Delhi, and most people either drive or take a bus to Haridwar/Rishikesh. Here is a practical step-by-step plan.
Getting There: From Delhi ISBT Kashmere Gate, UPSRTC and Uttarakhand Roadways buses leave frequently for Rishikesh (6 to 7 hours, Rs 400 to Rs 700). You can also take a Volvo or private sleeper bus overnight (Rs 800 to Rs 1,500). If driving, take NH58 via Meerut and Haridwar. The roads are excellent throughout.
Where to Stay: If you want the full adventure experience, stay at one of the riverside camps in Shivpuri. Camping packages start from Rs 1,200 per person per night including meals, bonfire, and basic amenities. Budget hotels in Rishikesh town start from Rs 800 per night, and mid-range options run Rs 1,500 to Rs 3,000 per night.
Booking Rafting: You can book rafting on the spot in Rishikesh, but during peak season (October to November and March to May), I recommend booking in advance through your camp or a certified operator. Weekend slots fill up fast, especially on the Marine Drive and Kaudiyala stretches.
Suggested Itinerary: For a weekend trip, leave Delhi on Friday night by bus, arrive Rishikesh Saturday morning, check into a Shivpuri camp, do rafting on Saturday afternoon, cliff jumping included. Sunday morning, explore Rishikesh (Lakshman Jhula, Ram Jhula, cafes), and head back to Delhi by evening. If you have 3 days, add canyoning and a waterfall trek. You can read about canyoning and river bathing experiences in Part 1 of this series.
What Is the Best Time for River Rafting in Rishikesh?
The rafting season in Rishikesh runs from 15 September to 30 June. During the monsoon (July to mid-September), all river activities are suspended because the water level rises dangerously and the current becomes too strong for safe rafting.
October to November: Post-monsoon, the water level is still high, rapids are at their strongest, and the weather is perfect. This is considered the best time for experienced rafters who want intense rapids. The water is a bit murky from the monsoon, but the adrenaline factor is highest.
March to May: The most popular time for rafting. Weather is warm, water is crystal clear, and rapids are moderate. This is ideal for first-timers and families. However, weekends can get extremely crowded during this period.
December to February: Rafting is open, but the water is freezing cold. If you are okay with that, this is the least crowded time, and you can often negotiate better prices with operators.
What Other Adventure Activities Can You Do in Rishikesh?
Rishikesh is rightly called the Adventure Capital of India, and rafting is just one of many things you can do here. If you are spending 2 to 3 days, I would strongly recommend trying at least a couple of these alongside rafting.
Bungee Jumping at Mohanchatti: India’s highest fixed-platform bungee jumping is at Jumping Heights in Mohanchatti, about 15 km from Rishikesh. The platform is 83 meters (273 feet) high. Cost is Rs 3,700 per person. Minimum age 12, weight between 40 and 110 kg. I have not done this personally yet, but friends who have say it is absolutely worth it.
Canyoning: I covered this in detail in Part 1 of this series. It involves rappelling down waterfalls, sliding down natural rock chutes, and jumping into pools. One of the most underrated adventure activities in Rishikesh.
Kayaking: Available on the Ganga, starting from Rs 3,000 per day. Requires minimum 3 days of training. This is for people who want a deeper connection with the river beyond just rafting.
Waterfall Treks: Neergarh Waterfall is the most popular, a short 2 km trek from the main road. Free entry, beautiful swimming spot during dry months.
Giant Swing: Also at Jumping Heights, Mohanchatti. You swing from 55 to 83 meters above the Ganga valley. Cost is Rs 3,500 per person.
What Did This Trip Teach Me About Adventure and Fear?
Looking back, this Rishikesh trip changed something fundamental in me. Before the cliff jump, I was genuinely scared of deep water. I could not swim, and the idea of jumping 15 feet into a river would have made me laugh if someone suggested it a day earlier. But I did it. And the moment I surfaced, gasping for air with water in every orifice, I felt a kind of freedom that is hard to describe.
Adventure sports are not about being fearless. They are about being afraid and doing it anyway. The rafting taught me teamwork and trust. You are in a raft with strangers, and your safety depends on everyone paddling together when the instructor says so. The cliff jumping taught me that most fears are bigger in your head than in reality.
Hence, if you are on the fence about trying rafting or cliff jumping in Rishikesh, my sincere advice is to just go for it. You do not need to know swimming. You do not need to be super fit. You just need the willingness to step out of your comfort zone, and Rishikesh makes it easy to do exactly that.
If you have done rafting or cliff jumping at Rishikesh, feel free to share your experience in the comments below. And if you are planning a trip to Uttarakhand beyond Rishikesh, check out some of our other guides for the region. See you on the road, my friend 🙂
Related Reading
- Adventure Activities in Rishikesh – River Bathing, Canyoning and More (Part 1)
- Delhi to Tungnath and Chandrashila – Complete Travel Guide
- Top 10 Offbeat Places in Uttarakhand
- Top 5 Easy Treks in Uttarakhand for Beginners
- Snowfall Near Delhi – 10 Places to Visit in Uttarakhand
Last Updated: March 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does river rafting cost in Rishikesh in 2026?
River rafting in Rishikesh costs between Rs 600 and Rs 2,500 per person depending on the stretch. The most popular Shivpuri stretch (16 km) costs Rs 1,000 per person plus a Rs 20 entry fee. The Marine Drive stretch (24 km) costs Rs 1,500 per person. These prices include transport to the starting point, guide, life jacket, helmet, and all equipment.
Do I need to know swimming for rafting or cliff jumping in Rishikesh?
No, you do not need to know swimming. Life jackets are mandatory and provided by all operators. I personally do not know how to swim and have done both rafting and cliff jumping in Rishikesh without any issues. Trained rescue swimmers are always present in the water during cliff jumping.
Is cliff jumping in Rishikesh safe for beginners?
Yes, cliff jumping in Rishikesh is safe for beginners when done with a certified operator. The cliffs range from 15 to 40 feet, and beginners are usually taken to lower cliffs first. Instructors check the water depth before each jump, and rescue swimmers are positioned in the water. Always wear your life jacket and jump feet-first with your arms crossed.
What is the best time for river rafting in Rishikesh?
The rafting season runs from 15 September to 30 June. The best time for intense rapids is October to November (post-monsoon, high water). For first-timers and families, March to May is ideal with clear water and moderate rapids. December to February is open but very cold. Rafting is closed during monsoon (July to mid-September).
What is the most thrilling rafting stretch in Rishikesh?
The Kaudiyala stretch (34 km, 6-7 hours) is the most thrilling with Grade III-IV rapids including Daniel Dip and The Wall. For a balance of thrill and accessibility, the Marine Drive stretch (24 km, 4-5 hours) is highly recommended. It includes over 12 rapids with famous ones like Golf Course, Black Money, and Three Blind Mice.
What should I wear for river rafting in Rishikesh?
Wear shorts and a quick-drying t-shirt (synthetic, not cotton). Strap-on sandals or water shoes that stay on your feet are essential. Do not wear flip-flops, they will come off in the rapids. Carry a separate dry set of clothes in a waterproof bag. Apply sunscreen as you will be on the water for hours. Leave valuables, phones, and wallets at camp or in waterproof pouches.
Is river rafting in Rishikesh dangerous?
River rafting with a certified operator is generally safe. The rapids on the popular Shivpuri stretch are Grade II-III, which is moderate difficulty. However, there are risks. I personally witnessed rafts flipping during the Golf Course rapid when water levels were high. The key safety measures are: always wear your life jacket properly, follow the guide’s instructions, and book only with Uttarakhand Tourism certified operators. Avoid unlicensed operators who may cut corners on safety.
Can I combine rafting with camping in Shivpuri?
Yes, combining rafting with camping in Shivpuri is the most popular way to experience Rishikesh adventure sports. Most Shivpuri camps offer packages starting from Rs 1,200 per person per night that include accommodation in tents, buffet meals, bonfire, and sometimes rafting. The Ganga river is right next to the camps, making it extremely convenient. Book in advance for weekends as camps fill up quickly during October to May.
4 Comments
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Can we go rafting in FEB – MARCH ..if yes then could you please provide contact details of the organizer for those rafting trips..
Devansh, I am not sure if you can raft in Feb but yea, March and April is when the season begins for them. Sorry, I do not have a reliable contact which I can share with you for the same.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
i done this as like you and same place in june 2012 . i have not write this yet but seeing your post i can feel again that adventure
Hey Manu,
That’s the beauty of Traveling and then blogging about it. We tend to relive those moments again and again through one or other’s experiences 🙂 … Thanks for visiting here and liking the articles.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma