River Rafting in Rishikesh Timing Today (Live Update Guide 2026)

River rafting in Rishikesh today with balanced water flow and morning departure
Live Status Update
Last Updated: February 23, 2026
Rafting operations are running under standard seasonal timing unless affected by sudden weather conditions or dam discharge changes.

River rafting in Rishikesh today typically starts between 7:30 AM and 9:00 AM, depending on the route such as 10 km rafting, 16 km rafting from Shivpuri, or longer stretches like 26 km and 36 km rafting.

Afternoon departures usually run between 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM, subject to water level and government safety permissions.

Rafting Status Today

Rafting Operations:
Open during seasonal window (September–June)

You can read the complete rafting season in Rishikesh guide for month-wise details.

Closed during monsoon (July–August)
Temporary pauses possible during heavy rainfall or high water release

If you are planning to go today, confirm your slot before leaving.

What Is River Rafting Timing in Rishikesh Today?

Rafting runs in two main daily slots — morning and afternoon — depending on route selection and river conditions.

Below is the standard timing structure followed on operational days.

Today’s River Rafting Timings (Route Wise)

RouteStarting PointMorning SlotAfternoon SlotDurationDifficulty
10 kmBrahmpuri9:00 AM2:00 PM1–1.5 hrsEasy
16 kmShivpuri8:30 AM1:30 PM2–2.5 hrsModerate
26 kmMarine Drive8:00 AM1:00 PM3–4 hrsModerate–High
36 kmKaudiyala7:30 AM12:30 PM4–5 hrsAdvanced
Rishikesh rafting routes including Shivpuri, Marine Drive and Kaudiyala starting points
Popular rafting starting points in Rishikesh including Shivpuri, Marine Drive and Kaudiyala.

Important:

  • Reporting time: 30–45 minutes before slot
  • Late arrivals may miss departure
  • Slots are limited per day due to permit regulations

You can check the latest river rafting price in Rishikesh before booking.

Is Rafting Open Today in Rishikesh?

Rafting is operational throughout the official season (late September to June).

It may be temporarily paused if:

  • Water level crosses safety threshold
  • Heavy upstream rainfall
  • District administration orders
  • Dam water release surge
  • Safety inspection by authorities

On normal clear-weather days, rafting continues as scheduled.

Route-Wise Timing Details Today

10 Km Rafting Timing (Phoolchatti)

  • Beginner-friendly
  • Flexible morning and afternoon options
  • Mild rapids
  • Ideal for families

16 Km Rafting Timing (Shivpuri)

  • Most booked stretch
  • Popular rapids like Roller Coaster & Golf Course
  • Morning slot offers better river strength
  • Afternoon slightly calmer

This route fills fastest during weekends.

26 Km Rafting Timing (Marine Drive)

  • Early reporting required
  • 3–4 hours on river
  • Suitable for physically active participants
  • Afternoon runs depend on water flow

36 Km Rafting Timing (Kaudiyala)

  • Longest commercial stretch
  • Strict morning departure
  • Not recommended for beginners
  • May not operate daily depending on river discharge

Morning vs Afternoon – Which Timing Is Better Today?

FactorMorning RaftingAfternoon Rafting
TemperatureCooler and fresherWarmer and comfortable
Water FlowSlightly stronger currentSlightly calmer flow
Crowd LevelModerate (less rush on weekdays)Higher on weekends
Best ForAdventure seekers & thrill loversBeginners & relaxed experience
PhotographyBetter natural lightWarmer golden tones

Morning rafting is generally considered the best experience.

Morning vs afternoon river rafting experience in Rishikesh comparison
Morning rafting offers cooler weather and stronger flow, while afternoon rafting provides warmer and calmer conditions.

What Affects Today’s Rafting Timing?

Several real-time factors influence operations:

  1. Seasonal window
  2. Tehri dam discharge
  3. Rainfall in upper Himalayan belt
  4. Safety clearance inspections
  5. Daily rafting permit limits

Timings are fixed, but cancellation depends on safety conditions.

Month-Wise Rafting Status Overview

MonthRafting StatusWater LevelBest For
JanuaryOpenCold & ModerateAdventure lovers
FebruaryOpenBalancedCouples & Small Groups
MarchOpenIdeal FlowBeginners
AprilOpenModerate–StrongMixed Experience
MayOpenStrongThrill Seekers
JuneOpenStrongExperienced Rafters
JulyClosed (Monsoon)HighNot Operational
AugustClosed (Monsoon)HighNot Operational
September (Early)Usually ClosedHighSafety Review Phase
September (Late)ReopensModerateSeason Start Travelers
OctoberOpenBalancedBest Overall Experience
NovemberOpenBalancedFamilies & Groups
DecemberOpenColdAdventure Seekers
Rishikesh rafting season showing normal water level vs monsoon high water flow
Rafting in Rishikesh remains closed during monsoon due to high river levels and resumes in late September.

If today falls between September and June, rafting generally operates normally.

During monsoon, adventure activities are paused. You can explore camping in Rishikesh or nearby sightseeing instead.

Important Instructions Before Leaving Today

  • Reach 30 minutes early
  • Carry valid government ID
  • Wear quick-dry clothing
  • Avoid alcohol consumption
  • Follow safety briefing carefully

Confirm your slot before leaving your hotel to avoid waiting at the rafting base.

Rafting safety briefing and reporting point in Rishikesh before departure
All participants attend a mandatory safety briefing before starting rafting in Rishikesh.

You can secure your slot through our river rafting booking in Rishikesh page.

People Also Ask – River Rafting in Rishikesh Timing Today

Is rafting open today in Rishikesh?

River rafting in Rishikesh is open during the official season from late September to June. It may close temporarily if water levels rise due to heavy rain or dam release. On normal clear days, rafting operates in morning and afternoon slots.

What are today’s rafting timings in Rishikesh?

Rafting in Rishikesh today typically starts between 7:30 AM and 9:00 AM for morning batches. Afternoon departures usually run between 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM depending on the route and river conditions.

Can I do rafting in Rishikesh in the afternoon?

Yes, afternoon rafting is available on most operational days. It usually begins between 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM. Afternoon slots are slightly warmer and suitable for beginners, but they can fill quickly on weekends.

What time should I reach for rafting today?

You should reach the rafting reporting point at least 30 to 45 minutes before your scheduled departure. This allows time for safety briefing, life jacket fitting, helmet distribution, and group assignment.

Is morning rafting better than afternoon in Rishikesh?

Morning rafting is generally preferred because the weather is cooler and river flow feels stronger. Afternoon rafting offers warmer water and a relaxed experience. Both are safe when operated under permitted water levels.

Is rafting cancelled during rain in Rishikesh?

Rafting is not automatically cancelled due to light rain. However, it may be suspended if water levels rise beyond safety limits or authorities issue temporary restrictions after heavy rainfall.

Which rafting route is available today?

Available routes depend on water level and government permissions. The 10 km and 16 km routes operate most regularly. Longer routes like 26 km and 36 km may operate only when river conditions are suitable.

Do I need advance booking for rafting today?

Advance booking is recommended, especially during weekends and holidays. Limited daily permits are issued, and morning slots usually sell out first during peak tourist season.

Final Summary

If you’re searching for river rafting in Rishikesh timing today, the key is:

  • Check seasonal window
  • Confirm live slot availability
  • Arrive early
  • Choose route based on experience level — if unsure, start with the complete Rishikesh rafting guide for a full comparison.

Rafting slots are limited daily. Morning departures usually fill first, especially on weekends.

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