Rishikesh isn’t just a spiritual haven — it’s also India’s ultimate playground for thrill-seekers. Surrounded by the Himalayas and the mighty Ganga, the town offers everything from white water rafting to cliff jumping, making it a top destination for unforgettable adventure experiences.
1. White Water Rafting
Why visit: This is Rishikesh’s most iconic adventure activity, offering a thrilling ride through rapids on the Ganges.
Highlights: – Rapids from Grade I to IV – Routes like Brahmapuri, Shivpuri, and Marine Drive – Optional cliff jumping and body surfing
Timing: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Oct to June)
Entry: ₹600–₹1500 per person (based on stretch)
2. Bungee Jumping at Mohan Chatti
Why visit: India’s first fixed-platform bungee, offering a 83m drop — not for the faint of heart!
Highlights: – Certified safety standards – Scenic drop zone in a forest valley – Adrenaline-pumping free fall
Timing: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Closed Tuesdays)
Entry: ₹3700 per jump (excl. video & certificate)
3. Giant Swing
Why visit: A thrilling alternative to bungee, where you swing across a vast gorge after a free fall.
Highlights: – 83m arc swing from a high platform – Dual or solo option – Great for couples or groups
Timing: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Entry: ₹3600 per person
4. Flying Fox
Why visit: Soar across the valley like Superman, reaching speeds up to 140 km/h over the Ganga.
Highlights: – Longest zipline in Asia (1 km) – Tandem and solo options – High-speed descent with great views
Timing: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Entry: ₹2000 per person (tandem); ₹3000 (solo)
5. Cliff Jumping
Why visit: Dive from a rocky ledge into the icy waters of the Ganga — the perfect mix of fear and fun.
Highlights: – Jumps from 10–30 feet – Usually combined with rafting – Safe and instructor-supervised
Timing: Included during rafting trips (Oct to June)
Entry: Included in rafting package or ₹300 separately
6. Kayaking on the Ganga
Why visit: Paddle solo or in a tandem kayak through calm or rapid stretches — perfect for water lovers.
Highlights: – Beginner to advanced routes – Guided by certified instructors – Great for fitness and nature lovers
Timing: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Entry: ₹1200–₹2500 per session
7. Trek to Neer Garh Waterfall
Why visit: A short trek with a moderate incline that rewards you with scenic falls and natural pools.
Highlights: – 1.5 km forest hike – Multiple tiers of waterfalls – Great for beginner trekkers
Timing: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: ₹30 per person
8. Rock Climbing and Rappelling
Why visit: Test your climbing skills on natural rock faces near the Ganges with expert guidance.
Highlights: – Rock faces near Shivpuri – Safe gear and instructor-led – Combo packages available with other sports
Timing: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: ₹1000–₹2000 per session
9. Paragliding (nearby)
Why visit: Though not directly in Rishikesh, paragliding spots nearby offer stunning aerial views of the valley.
Highlights: – Fly over hills and forests – Tandem flights with trained pilots – Combine with Haridwar or Dehradun trip
Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (weather dependent)
Entry: ₹3500–₹5000 per person
10. Camping & Bonfire at Shivpuri
Why visit: Spend a night under the stars, with tents, bonfires, and outdoor games in a riverside setting.
Highlights: – Riverside tent stays – Music, BBQ, and stargazing – Safe and family-friendly setups
Timing: Check-in from 2:00 PM; Check-out by 11:00 AM
Entry: Packages from ₹1000–₹2500 per person (includes meals)
Feature Image:- Photo by NARINDER PAL on Unsplash
