Experience the Thrill of River Rafting in Rishikesh

At Rishikesh, the sun doesn’t shine on you, but inside you… And the rivers do not flow by you, but through you. You live all the years of the past, in a matter of minutes. You start to think of the present, as the last day of your life. Your heart throbs wildly, in an incomprehensible contrast to the mystical chanting of the sages; and the mad gush of the river sounds like a requiem. Life takes the form of time, and you wish that the seconds were under your control. Rafting in Rishikesh is just the thing for those adrenaline crazy, adolescent hearts.

Rishikesh is a very popular spot for white water rafting and other adventure activities. Every year, thousands of tourists flock to the World Capital of Yoga, to find their lost spirits, and dwell in the lap of nature. Meanwhile the more sporty spirits, take out their rafts for a ride and their guts for a challenge. It is a magical battle against the fast flowing cold currents of the Ganges. White water rafting has different levels of difficulty, depending on your training. Small training modules are also available for amateurs, whereby they are equipped to battle the ferocity of the Ganges. Punching and High Siding through the madness, most rafters have returned from Rishikesh, with a renewed love for life. The best time to visit Rishikesh for rafting is from September to November and from March to May. It covers several kilometers, the path being interspersed with rapids which range from Level 1 to Level 5.

Various local travel agencies offer Rishikesh tour packages to enjoy rafting, which usually include a rafting trip, overnight camping, and a trek among the hills.

The Gateway to Himalayas, Rishikesh also has to offer, an array of other adventure activities. It is the first destination in India to have a Bungee Jumping point, constructed under expert designers from New Zealand. One could also indulge in hiking, mountain biking, cliff jumping, rock climbing, kayaking, rappelling as well. Skiing can be done at Auli, approximately 8-9 hours’ drive away from Rishikesh, from January up till March. It is also one of the best slopes in Asia. Those with a desire to romance the supernatural ethos could also camp quietly on the banks of Ganges.

Rishikesh also presents a host of other services like Ayurveda and Reiki treatments, astrology services etc. A dip in the Holy waters of the Ganges is a must. It is sure to be a great spiritual experience. Those on a spiritual quest could also visit the Lakshman Jhoola, Trayambakeshwar Temple, Shiv Mandir, Bharat Mandir, Rama Jhoola etc. You could also shop around the flea markets, which sell various religious paraphernalia, and clothes.

The welcoming country folk at Rishikesh will flaunt with pride, the coming of the Beatles to their little town. The more musically literate Mozarts will sing The Happy Rishikesh Song for you.

Getting to Rishikesh is possible by rail and road. The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport (about 15 kms.), which currently handles two flights from Delhi. Getting to Rishikesh by a car from daily airport is the most feasible hassle free option. For travelling around in Rishikesh, autorikshaws, called Vikrams are the best option.

Most accommodation and restaurants can be found in Lakshman Jhula, High Bank and Swarg Ashram. The Holy City is a vegetarian hub by law, and does not sell alcohol. However most restaurants in Lakshman Jhoola will serve you vegetarian delicacies, made from the nature’s best products. A lot of ashrams, like the Swarga Ashram, provide accommodation along with Yoga classes. Rishikesh is where adventure is ridiculously easy to find. And rafting in Rishikesh could be your ultimate and most happening experience in life!