Rishikesh: 16km Rafting Adventure with Rapids & Pickup

Summary

Whitewater thrills, riverside laughs and a wild Ganges ride in Rishikesh

You’ll plunge through seven rapids on a 16km rafting trip near Rishikesh, guided by locals who know every twist of the Ganges. Jump in for body surfing or cliff jumping if you’re feeling bold. Includes private pickup, gear, safety briefing—and plenty of laughter along the way.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the river sounded from the jeep window—kind of like distant applause, but sharper. We’d just bounced out of Rishikesh, heading north to Shivpuri with our guide Vikram pointing out little shrines tucked into the rocks. He kept grinning every time someone asked about the “Roller Coaster” rapid. I think he enjoys seeing people nervous before they’ve even touched the water.

Getting ready took longer than I thought—there’s this careful ritual with helmets and life jackets, everyone fumbling with straps and laughing at each other’s attempts to look brave. The air smelled bright, if that makes sense—like wet stone and sunblock. When we finally pushed off, the current grabbed us right away. The first splash hit colder than I expected; my toes went numb for a second. Vikram shouted instructions over the water (“Paddle forward! Harder!”) as we charged into Golf Course rapid. Someone behind me screamed—could’ve been me honestly—and then we were all just soaked and grinning.

Somewhere between rapids, there was this weirdly calm stretch where birds darted low over the surface and you could actually hear yourself breathe. Vikram offered us a chance to jump in for body surfing—I hesitated, but ended up floating beside the raft anyway, river tugging at my arms. The sun felt different on wet skin, almost electric. At one point he tried teaching us how to say “thank you” in Hindi but I’m pretty sure I butchered it; he laughed anyway.

The last bit before Laxman Jhula bridge was quieter than I expected—like everyone was saving their words for later or just letting it all sink in. Back on land, we piled into the jeep again (still dripping), headed back toward Red Chilli Adventure’s office. My hands tingled for ages after from gripping the paddle so tight. I still think about that cold shock of water and how alive it made everything feel—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Rafting and adventure activities in Rishikesh

• Drive 30 minutes to Shivpuri
• Prepare for rafting and safety briefing
• Raft 16km down river with rapids
• Enjoy body surfing and cliff jumping
• Jeep drive back to office

Top questions

How long does the Rishikesh rafting trip take?

The rafting stretch is about 2 hours on water plus around an hour for driving and preparation.

What is included in this 16km Rishikesh rafting tour?

The day includes private transportation, all fees and taxes, raft rental with life jacket, paddle and helmet.

Where does the rafting start and end?

The trip starts near Shivpuri and finishes just before Laxman Jhula bridge in Rishikesh.

Are there big rapids on this route?

Yes, you’ll tackle seven rapids including Roller Coaster (III+), Golf Course (III+), and Club House (III).

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

The tour includes private transportation from Red Chilli Adventure’s office; public transport options are nearby too.

Can beginners join this rafting experience?

This stretch is considered safe but travelers should have moderate fitness; not recommended for certain health conditions.

What’s included

Your day covers private transportation to Shivpuri and back from Laxman Jhula area to Red Chilli Adventure’s office, all necessary fees and taxes taken care of up front, plus use of raft with life jacket, paddle and helmet—so you’re set for every splash along the Ganges.