Rishikesh: There is good news for rafting enthusiasts as the 2026-27 Ganga rafting season in Uttarakhand is set to begin from September 24, 2026. The season-opening ceremony will be held a day earlier, on September 23, at Shivpuri.
According to the latest instructions issued by the Ganga River Rafting Management Committee, Tehri Garhwal, a special opening ceremony has been proposed at Shivpuri at 4 PM on September 23. The event will be attended by senior officials from the Uttarakhand government, including the Principal Secretary, Planning and Managing Director of UIIDB, and the Secretary, Tourism.
When Will Rishikesh Rafting Start?
While the official opening ceremony will take place on September 23, river rafting activities on the Ganga will formally begin from the forenoon of September 24, 2026.
This means tourists planning a rafting trip in Rishikesh will need to wait until September 24 for regular rafting operations to begin.
Why Was the Rafting Season Delayed?
The new rafting season follows the monsoon period, during which rafting activities are suspended due to changing river conditions and safety concerns.
The start of the 2026-27 rafting season will now mark the return of adventure activities on the Ganga after the seasonal break.
Rishikesh Rafting 2026: Key Dates
- September 23, 2026: Rafting season opening ceremony at Shivpuri at 4 PM
- September 24, 2026: Regular Ganga river rafting activities to begin
- Rafting season: 2026-27
Tourists planning a Rishikesh trip for rafting can therefore start looking at bookings from September 24, subject to operational and river conditions.
Rishikesh Ganga Rafting 2026 The start of the new rafting season is expected to bring adventure enthusiasts back to popular rafting stretches around Rishikesh. Visitors should choose authorised rafting operators and follow all applicable safety guidelines before entering the river.
FAQs About Rishikesh Ganga Rafting 2026
When will Rishikesh Ganga rafting start in 2026?
Rafting in Rishikesh may resume from September 23, 2026, subject to the required official approval and suitable river conditions.
Why was Rishikesh rafting delayed in September 2026?
The reopening was delayed because continued rainfall contributed to high water levels in the Ganga, prompting authorities to assess the river before allowing rafting operations to restart.
Which are the popular rafting stretches in Rishikesh?
Popular stretches include Brahmapuri, Shivpuri, Marine Drive and Kaudiyala, although the routes available can depend on river conditions and official permissions.
What is the age limit for rafting in Rishikesh?
Under the applicable Uttarakhand rafting regulations, participants below 14 years and above 60 years are not permitted to take part in river rafting.
Is rafting available throughout the year in Rishikesh?
No. Rafting operations are affected by the monsoon and river conditions. The operating season generally falls outside the peak monsoon period, and reopening depends on safety assessments and official permission.
