River rafting in Rishikesh – A must experience for adventure junkies

Posted on April 9, 2017 by Ghoomophiro

River rafting is already the favorite water sport for the adventure junkies. Although it’s done under supervision and the accidents happen rarely, it still scares the weak hearted tourists to some extent. Rishikesh is one spot in the northern India that is somehow considered idol for the river rafting sport. The ever electric and gurgling current of Ganges is enough to give a thrilling ride.

How to reach Rishikesh

Rishikesh being one of the most popular tourist destinations in that part of the country happens to be well connected to other big cities via road, air, and railways. Jolly Grant airport located in Dehradun is the nearest airport to Rishikesh, approximately 35 kilometers away. When it comes to the railways, Haridwar railway station happens to be nearest which is approximately 25 kilometers away. You can then hire a cab or a taxi to enter Rishikesh. However, journey by road would be the best bet. Rishikesh has a good network of buses linking it with important places such as Haridwar, Dehradun, and New Delhi.

The season

During the post-monsoon seasons, the overall fun of rafting ten folds and it dates from September and extends up to June. Although, winters also allow the rafters to have some fun but still, it would be best if you try and avoid them as the water would be unbearably chilly.

The spots

There are many rafting spots in Rishikesh where the rafters can have some of the best fun they ever had with water spots. They are classified by the rapids or currents of the rivers. The highest grade rafting is the most difficult while as low the rapid is, so is the difficulty and danger level.

Brahmpuri to Rishikesh- The grade 1 rafting is quite easy and mostly preferred by the beginners and the less adventurous ones. In the distance of about 9 kilometers, the current of the river remains stable and that makes it suitable for almost every age group. The estimated time it takes to finish one trip is about 1.5 hours and the cost per person is RS. 450.

Shivpuri to Rishikesh- The grade 3 and 4 current of the river makes it one of the most thrilling rafting experiences one can have at any place in the country. The route has some high octane hurdles which just add up to the thrill of the raft. The 16 kilometers raft takes about 3 hours to be done and over with and charges about RS. 650 per person.

Marine Drive to Rishikesh- Now this one is scary. The grade 4 and 5 raft is hard on the nerves and not definitely for the shallow of hearts. This is the highest level to push your adrenaline. The rafting route is the longest in the city at 24 kilometers and it takes about 4.5 hours to finish. The per-person cost is also the highest as it goes up to Rs. 850 per person.

Do try Bungee Jumping

There is much more to this place than just rafting. Bungee Jump in Rishikesh is the highest Bungee Jump in India with a total height of 83 meters. Try Bungee Jumping amidst the calm Ganges on your next visit. Experiencing the adrenaline rush of Flying Fox is also worth it!

Although rafting is fun, but it’s also very dangerous and the beginners must go for the lower grades first.

It is advisable not to take the rafting sport carelessly. Do follow some safety guidelines such as do not try to go on a rafting trip alone. You should hire a guide or an instructor. Avoid going rafting in the dark. Make sure you plan your rafting in a way that you have plenty of time to get back to the campsite before darkness falls.