26km Rishikesh Whitewater Rafting on the Ganges - Day Trip Guide
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic upper-body endurance helps for sustained paddling
Overview
Float into Himalayan current and tackle ten rapids across a 26km stretch of the Ganges. This full‑morning guided run out of Rishikesh balances accessible whitewater with cultural stops and simple logistics.
26km Rishikesh Whitewater Rafting on the Ganges - Day Trip Guide
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You push off from a gravel put-in just downstream of the so-called Glass House, and the river takes charge — bright, cold Himalayan water that rides under the raft like a moving floor. Trees along the bank lean toward the current; prayer flags flutter on the bridges as villagers watch from terraces. Over the next three hours you’ll meet ten named rapids, an hour-long drive back to town, and the steady real-time education in how the Ganges moves through the foothills: sometimes lazy, sometimes propulsive.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Arrive hydrated
Drink water before the trip — you’ll expend energy paddling and river spray can mask thirst.
Dress for splash
Wear quick-dry clothing and secure water shoes; cotton stays heavy when wet.
Listen to your guide
Follow commands for paddle strokes and when to brace — timing keeps the raft upright.
Protect tech
Use a small dry bag or waterproof case for phones and keys; the raft isn’t a camera platform.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- White-throated kingfisher
- Hanuman langur (monkey)
History
Rishikesh has been a pilgrimage center on the Ganges for centuries and later gained fame as a counterculture destination; commercial rafting became common in the late 20th century as tourism grew.
Conservation
Local outfitters often participate in river cleanups; visitors should avoid single-use plastics and follow guide instructions to minimize impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Rishikesh
Recommended Gear
Quick-dry athletic top and shorts
Dries fast and won’t weigh you down when wet.
Secure water shoes or sandals with heel strap
Protects feet on rocky shores and provides traction in the raft.
Small waterproof dry bag
Keeps phone, wallet and keys safe from spray.
Sunscreen and polarized sunglasses with retainer
Reduces glare and protects skin on exposed river sections.
summer specific