The most thrilling activities in Rishikesh are white water rafting on the Ganga, bungee jumping at Mohan Chatti, the flying fox and giant swing, cliff jumping, short Himalayan treks and riverside camping. Most adventure sports run from about September to June and pause during the monsoon, when the river is too high and fast.
Rishikesh in Uttarakhand is known as the Yoga Capital of the World and the gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas. It sits about 240 km from Delhi, close to Haridwar and Dehradun, which makes it one of the easiest adventure trips from north India. Here is an updated guide for 2026. More destination guides are in our travel section.
- Thrilling activities in Rishikesh: quick facts
- 1. White water rafting on the Ganga
- 2. Bungee jumping at Mohan Chatti
- 3. Flying fox and giant swing
- 4. Cliff jumping and body surfing
- 5. Trekking: short trails and Himalayan routes
- 6. Camping by the river
- Balance the thrills with a slower evening
- Frequently asked questions
Thrilling activities in Rishikesh: quick facts
| Activity | Where | Best season |
|---|---|---|
| White water rafting | Ganga, from Brahmpuri, Shivpuri, Marine Drive or Kaudiyala to Rishikesh | September to June |
| Bungee jumping | Mohan Chatti, about 15 to 20 km from town | Most of the year, weather permitting |
| Flying fox and giant swing | Mohan Chatti and Shivpuri area | Most of the year |
| Trekking | Kunjapuri, Neer Garh, and longer Garhwal treks | October to June (high treks vary) |
| Camping | Shivpuri and the road towards Byasi | October to June |
1. White water rafting on the Ganga
Rafting is the reason most adventure travellers come to Rishikesh. Trips start upstream and finish near the town, so you choose your stretch by how much time and challenge you want.
Also read10 Best Places to Try Cocktails in Bali: 2026 Bar Guide
- Brahmpuri to Rishikesh (about 9 km): Gentle, with small rapids. Good for families and first-timers.
- Shivpuri to Rishikesh (about 16 km): The most popular stretch, with well-known rapids such as Roller Coaster and Golf Course.
- Marine Drive to Rishikesh (about 24 km): Longer, with more rapids, including Three Blind Mice and Club House.
- Kaudiyala to Rishikesh (about 36 km): A full-day run for experienced rafters, with the toughest water on this section of the river.
Rapids here range from grade I to grade III and IV depending on water level. Rafting is usually suspended by the state during the monsoon, roughly July to mid-September, and resumes once the river settles. Always wear the helmet and life jacket provided and book with an operator licensed by Uttarakhand authorities.
2. Bungee jumping at Mohan Chatti
Rishikesh has a fixed-platform bungee jump at Mohan Chatti, set on a cliff above a river gorge. The jump height is 83 metres, which the operator promotes as the highest fixed-platform bungee in India.
Jumpers are weighed and briefed before the jump, and there are age and weight limits, so check these with the operator when booking. The site also overlooks forested hills, which makes it popular with people who come only to watch.
3. Flying fox and giant swing
A flying fox is a zipline on which you are strapped in a harness and sent across a valley at high speed. The giant swing drops you off a platform before the rope swings you in a wide arc over the gorge.
Both are good options for people who want a rush without the full bungee drop. They can be done solo or in tandem, and are offered at the same adventure parks near Mohan Chatti and Shivpuri.
4. Cliff jumping and body surfing
Many longer rafting trips include a stop for cliff jumping from a rock ledge into a calm section of the Ganga, and body surfing through a small rapid in a life jacket. These are optional, and guides decide whether conditions are safe on the day.
Non-swimmers should tell their guide in advance. The water is cold for most of the year, even in summer, because it comes from the glaciers upstream.
5. Trekking: short trails and Himalayan routes
Rishikesh works as a base for both half-day walks and longer treks deeper in the Garhwal Himalayas.
- Kunjapuri Devi Temple: A popular sunrise trip with wide views of the Himalayan peaks on clear days.
- Neer Garh Waterfall: A short walk from the Lakshman Jhula side to a series of small pools.
- Valley of Flowers: Part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reached by road to Govindghat and then on foot. It is generally open from June to October, with peak blooms in July and August.
- Kuari Pass: A moderate multi-day trek known for views of Nanda Devi and nearby peaks.
For longer treks, go with a registered trekking company and check permits and weather warnings, especially during the monsoon.
6. Camping by the river
Camps along the road from Shivpuri towards Byasi offer tents, meals, bonfires and packaged rafting trips. They suit groups of friends, couples and families who want to stay outside the busy town.
Pick a camp registered with the state tourism department, ask about safety measures and avoid camps that encourage swimming in strong currents. Alcohol and non-vegetarian food are restricted within Rishikesh town limits, so check camp rules if this matters to you.
Balance the thrills with a slower evening
After a day of adventure, the evening Ganga aarti at Triveni Ghat or Parmarth Niketan is a calm way to end it. The Beatles Ashram, where the band stayed in 1968, is another popular stop. For tips on staying active and safe on such trips, see our health section.
Further reading: Rishikesh.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time for rafting in Rishikesh?
The main rafting season runs from about September to June. October, November, March and April are the most comfortable months. Rafting is usually stopped during the monsoon.
How high is the bungee jump in Rishikesh?
The fixed-platform bungee at Mohan Chatti is 83 metres high, according to the operator, and is promoted as the highest of its kind in India.
Can non-swimmers do river rafting in Rishikesh?
Yes. Non-swimmers can raft on easier stretches such as Brahmpuri or Shivpuri, as long as they wear a life jacket and helmet and follow the guide’s instructions.
How many days are enough for adventure activities in Rishikesh?
Two to three days are enough for rafting, one high-adrenaline activity and a short trek or temple visit. Add more days for longer Himalayan treks.
Sources: Uttarakhand Tourism, Incredible India, UNESCO: Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks.
