Rishikesh, situated at the foothills of the Himalayas in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand, is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts. The town is known for its scenic beauty and offers a range of adventure activities for people of all ages and abilities.
River Rafting
River rafting is one of the most popular adventure activities in Rishikesh. The town is located on the banks of the holy river Ganges, which offers a thrilling experience for rafting enthusiasts. The most popular rafting stretch in Rishikesh is the 16-kilometer long stretch from Shivpuri to Rishikesh. This stretch is classified as Grade II to III+ and is suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters. The rapids on this stretch include Roller Coaster, Golf Course, and Double Trouble, among others.
Bungee Jumping
Rishikesh offers one of the highest bungee jumping platforms in India. The jump is from a height of 83 meters and is a thrilling experience for adventure enthusiasts. You’ll free fall for a few seconds before the bungee cord stops you, giving you an adrenaline rush like no other.
Zip-lining
Zip-lining is another adventure activity that you can enjoy in Rishikesh. The zip-line starts from a height of 120 meters and takes you over the beautiful forested area, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The experience of soaring through the air at high speeds is a thrilling experience for adventure seekers.
Trekking
Rishikesh is surrounded by lush green forests, and there are many trekking trails that you can explore. You can choose from short treks to long multi-day treks, depending on your preference and fitness level. Some of the popular trekking trails in Rishikesh include the Neer Garh Waterfall trek, the Kunjapuri Temple trek, and the Chandrashila trek.
Rock Climbing
Rishikesh offers several rock climbing sites for beginners as well as experienced climbers. The rocks here are perfect for both bouldering and traditional climbing. The Shivpuri and Lakshman Jhula areas are popular rock climbing sites in Rishikesh.
Kayaking
If you’re looking for a more peaceful adventure, you can go kayaking in the calm waters of the Ganges. Kayaking is a great way to explore the natural beauty of the region at your own pace. You can choose from short kayaking trips to longer ones, depending on your preference.
Camping
Rishikesh offers many camping sites, allowing you to spend a night under the stars in the lap of nature. The campsites are usually set up along the banks of the river Ganges and offer a serene and peaceful experience. You can enjoy activities like bonfires, barbecues, and stargazing at the campsites.
Mountain Biking
Rishikesh offers many opportunities for mountain biking enthusiasts. The town is surrounded by scenic mountain trails that offer a thrilling experience for mountain bikers. You can rent a bike and explore the trails at your own pace or join a guided tour.
In addition to these adventure activities, Rishikesh also offers other experiences like white water rafting, cliff jumping, rappelling, and more. The town has something to offer for everyone, whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a nature lover. It’s important to choose a reputable adventure tour operator and follow all safety instructions provided by them to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.