Route Guide · November 2026
WHERE DOES RIVER RAFTING START IN RISHIKESH?
A GUIDE TO RAFTING STARTING POINTS
Most people picture rafting in Rishikesh as hopping into a boat right in town. In reality, you start upstream and paddle your way back down the Ganga.
Explore the Starting Points01 - The Basics
How Rishikesh Rafting Starting Points Work
Your rafting starting point in Rishikesh decides how far you travel, how big the rapids get and how long you spend on the water. Here's a simple guide to the Rishikesh rafting starting points so you know exactly what you're booking.
Every trip runs downstream towards Rishikesh. Your operator drives you up the Rishikesh–Badrinath road to a beach or riverside spot, gives you a safety briefing, and then you're off. The further upstream the rafting starting point in Rishikesh, the longer the run.
There are four main Rishikesh rafting starting points: Brahmapuri, Shivpuri, Marine Drive and Kaudiyala. Here's how each one compares.
| Starting Point | Distance | Typical Grade | Approx. Time on Water |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brahmapuri | 9 km | Grade I–II | 1.5 hours |
| Shivpuri | 16 km | Grade II–III | 2.5–3 hours |
| Marine Drive | 25 km | Grade III | 3.5–4 hours |
| Kaudiyala | 36 km | Biggest rapids | Most of a day |
02 - The Gentle Start
Brahmapuri: The Short and Gentle Start
The Brahmapuri rafting starting point (also spelt Brahmpuri) sits closest to town. The run covers about 9 km, with mostly Grade I–II rapids and around 1.5 hours on the water.
Families, nervous first-timers and anyone short on time love the Brahmapuri rafting starting point. You still get splashes and a few lively rapids, just without the long day.
03 - The Popular Pick
Shivpuri: The Most Popular Rafting Point
The Shivpuri rafting point is where most visitors begin. The 16 km stretch brings Grade II–III rapids and takes roughly 2.5 to 3 hours.
The Shivpuri rafting point is busy for good reason. It mixes calm sections with exciting rapids, so mixed groups of beginners and thrill-seekers all have fun. The state tourism board even opened the 2026–27 rafting season at Shivpuri, which shows how central this stretch is.
Not sure how Shivpuri stacks up against the shorter and longer runs? Our Brahmpuri vs Shivpuri vs Marine Drive comparison breaks down the three most popular stretches side by side.
04 - The Long Ride
Marine Drive: A Longer Ride on the Ganga
Head further upstream and you reach the Marine Drive rafting point. This run covers about 25 km, with rapids up to Grade III and around 3.5 to 4 hours of paddling.
The Marine Drive rafting point suits confident groups who want more time on the river and don't mind a few tired arms by the end.
05 - The Full Day
Kaudiyala: The Longest Rafting Starting Point in Rishikesh
The Kaudiyala rafting point is the furthest upstream of all the Rishikesh rafting starting points, giving you about 36 km of river. It packs in the biggest rapids of the Rishikesh stretch and usually fills most of a day, often with a lunch break on a river beach.
Choose the Kaudiyala rafting point if you're fit, comfortable in moving water and want the full Ganga experience. Some trips include a chance to tackle The Wall, though guides decide this on the day based on water levels and permissions.
Globesome runs a weekend full-day trip on exactly this stretch — see the 36 km Kaudiyala to Neem Beach rafting trip for departure times, inclusions and booking details.
06 - Decide
How to Pick Your Rafting Starting Point in Rishikesh
- First-timers and families: the Brahmapuri rafting starting point keeps things short and easy
- Most groups: the Shivpuri rafting point offers the best balance of fun and challenge
- Confident paddlers: the Marine Drive rafting point gives you a longer run
- Adventure seekers: the Kaudiyala rafting point delivers a full day on the river
Whatever you pick, ask your operator whether their guides hold recognised qualifications, such as International Rafting Federation certification. Water levels can also change which Rishikesh rafting starting points are open, so always follow your guide's call on the day. If you can't swim, our guide to rafting in Rishikesh for non-swimmers explains how life jackets and the right stretch keep you safe.
07 - Final Word
Conclusion
Picking the right rafting starting point in Rishikesh comes down to your fitness, your group and how much time you have. Globesome runs a weekend full-day trip from Kaudiyala to Neem Beach with certified guides, a hot beachside lunch and photos from the water included.
Choose from these Rishikesh rafting starting points wisely, wear your life jacket and enjoy every rapid. Planning your dates? Check the best time for rafting in Rishikesh before you book.
08 - Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
01Which rafting starting point is best for beginners?
Brahmapuri suits most beginners because it's short, with gentle Grade I–II rapids. If you feel a little braver, the Shivpuri rafting point is another good choice, offering more time on the water while staying manageable for first-timers with a guide.
02Do I need to travel to the starting point myself?
Usually not. Most operators collect you from a meeting point in Rishikesh and drive you upstream to your launch spot. Check pickup timings when booking, and arrive early so you don't miss the safety briefing before your trip starts.
03How long is the Kaudiyala rafting trip?
The Kaudiyala rafting point gives you around 36 km of river, the longest run near Rishikesh. Most trips take the best part of a day, including a lunch break on a river beach, depending on water levels and group pace.
04Can non-swimmers raft from any starting point?
Non-swimmers often raft on shorter, gentler stretches like Brahmapuri. Life jackets are compulsory, and guides stay close throughout. Always tell your operator you can't swim well before booking, so they can recommend a suitable stretch for your comfort level.
05When is the best time to raft in Rishikesh?
The main season runs from late September to June, when water levels are safe. Rafting stops during the monsoon months. Spring and autumn usually bring pleasant weather and steady rapids, making them popular times for every stretch of the river.
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Picked Your Starting Point?
Book Your Rishikesh Rafting Trip with Globesome.
Tell us which stretch you have in mind, and our team will confirm availability, timing and everything you need for the day.