What is the best season to go rafting in Rishikesh?

Rishikesh in Uttarakhand, India is a year-round destination for river rafting enthusiasts. The Ganges River that flows through the city offers exciting rafting experiences throughout the year. However, each season has its own advantages and disadvantages for rafting.   

The best season to go rafting in Rishikesh depends on factors like water levels, weather conditions, crowd levels, accommodation prices and festival calendar. The main seasons are:

Winter (December to February)

Pros:

• Low water levels: The water level in the Ganges River is at its lowest during winter. This makes for a calmer rafting experience suitable for beginners and families.

• Clear water: The lower flow of water means it is clearer, allowing you to see the river bed and rocks. This enhances the visual experience.

• Pleasant weather: Winter in Rishikesh sees pleasant sunny days and cool nights with temperatures between 5 to 20 degrees Celsius. This makes outdoor activities more comfortable.   

• Lower crowds and prices: Fewer tourists visit Rishikesh in winter, resulting in lower crowd levels and accommodation prices.   

Cons:

• Shorter days: The days are shorter during winter, leaving less time for rafting. Sunset is around 5:30 pm.

• Cold water: Though the air may be warm, the river water remains cold throughout the year. Wearing a wet suit is recommended.

Spring (March to May) 

Pros:

• Moderate water levels: The water level in the Ganges starts rising in spring, making for a more exciting rafting experience. Rapids also form during this time.

• Longer days: With days getting longer, you have more sunlight hours for rafting. Sunset is around 6:30 pm.

• Pleasant weather: The weather remains pleasant and comfortable for outdoor activities with temperatures between 15 to 30 degrees Celsius.

• Fewer crowds: Spring sees fewer tourists compared to summer and autumn.

Cons:

• Unstable weather: Spring can see unstable weather with occasional rain, hail and thunderstorms. This can impact rafting.

• Higher prices: Accommodation prices in Rishikesh start to rise in spring.

Summer (June to August)

Pros: 

• High water levels: The monsoon rains swell the Ganges River, resulting in the highest water levels of the year. This makes for an exciting and thrilling rafting experience with big rapids.  

• Long days: With the longest days of the year, you have plenty of sunlight hours for rafting. Sunset is around 7 pm.

Cons:

• Unpredictable weather: Monsoon rains mean the weather can be unpredictable with frequent showers impacting rafting. Carry a raincoat.   

• Crowded rivers: Summer sees the highest tourist footfall in Rishikesh, resulting in crowded rivers during rafting.  

• Highest prices: Accommodation prices in Rishikesh peak during summer.

Autumn (September to November)

Pros:

• Moderate water levels: As monsoon rains subside, the water level in the Ganges starts to reduce, resulting in a more balanced rafting experience.

• Pleasant weather: The weather remains pleasant and comfortable with temperatures between 15 to 25 degrees Celsius.  

• Fewer crowds: Tourist numbers reduce after the summer season, resulting in less crowded rivers.

• Lower prices: Accommodation prices in Rishikesh start coming down after the summer peak.

Cons:

• Shorter days: The days start to get shorter in autumn with sunset around 5:30 pm. This leaves less time for rafting.

In summary, the best season to go rafting in Rishikesh depends on your preferences and what you prioritize. Winter offers the calmest rafting experience while summer has the most thrilling rides due to high water levels. Spring and autumn offer a good balance between weather, crowds and prices.