Kaudiyala to Rishikesh — 36 KM Rafting

Kaudiyala is where the Ganga still feels wild. Thirty-six kilometres upstream of Rishikesh, the road drops to a stony put-in and the river opens into a green corridor of forest and cliff with almost nothing man-made in sight. From the first paddle stroke you are committed to the longest commercially run stretch on this river.

This run stacks the big-name rapids early — the ones that flip rafts and make legends of first-timers who hold their line. Between them come long, glassy pools where the gorge goes quiet, the guides swap stories, and you can slip into the water and float on your life jacket while the raft drifts beside you.

Because of the distance and water volume, Kaudiyala is our pick for repeat rafters, fit groups and anyone who has already done a shorter stretch and wants the real thing. Expect a full day out: transport upstream, a long safety briefing, lunch on a beach, and a slow, satisfied drive home.