10 Most Popular River Rafting Destinations In India

OT Staff & Waquar Habib

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

India’s rafting capital, Rishikesh offers Ganges rapids from Grade I–IV. Beginners and pros alike enjoy scenic runs, riverside camps, yoga, and easy access from Dehradun or Haridwar.

Tourists enjoying rafting in Rishikesh | Avinash Kumar/Unsplash

Teesta River, Sikkim

Flowing through Sikkim’s green valleys, the Teesta features Grade II–IV rapids and stunning mountain views. Ideal from March to June, rafting trips start near Rangpo with licensed guides.

The Teesta river cuts through the valleys in Sikkim | Author

Zanskar River, Ladakh

The Zanskar’s icy waters offer India’s most dramatic rafting, with Grade III–V rapids and towering gorges. Expeditions run June to August, demanding fitness, permits, and experienced rafting crews.

Rafting in Zanskar River | tejaswipoludasuphotography/instagram

Bhagirathi River, Uttarakhand

A sacred yet challenging river, Bhagirathi features Grade II–IV rapids near Uttarkashi. Scenic Himalayan stretches and short weekend trips make it popular between April–June and September–November.

A view of the Bhagirathi River | umeshgogna/instagram

Sutlej River, Himachal Pradesh

Originating in Tibet, the Sutlej cuts through Himachal’s rugged valleys with Grade III–V rapids. The Kinnaur stretch offers serious thrills, requiring strong paddlers and professional expedition teams.

Rafting in Sutlej River | rapid_adventures/instagram

Beas River, Himachal Pradesh

The Beas near Kullu–Manali offers gentle to moderate rapids (Grade II–III). Perfect for first-timers, the Pirdi–Jhiri route combines adrenaline with breathtaking mountain and pine forest views.

Beas River near Manali in Kullu Valley | Shutterstock

Kali River, Karnataka

Flowing through Dandeli’s forests, the Kali River has Grade III–IV rapids ideal for quick, fun sessions. Expect lush scenery, playful drops, and safe runs guided by trained experts.

Kali River, Karnataka | lokesh_r_k/instagram

Barapole River, Coorg

Tucked in Kodagu’s coffee country, Barapole’s Grade III–IV rapids promise short, intense rides. Rafting peaks post-monsoon (July–September), blending natural beauty with the region’s signature aroma of coffee estates.

People rafting at Barapole River | indianarmy_sportsandadventure/instagram

Siang River, Arunachal Pradesh

The Siang, upper Brahmaputra, offers India’s toughest rafting with Grade IV–V rapids. Remote camps, tribal hamlets, and pristine forests make this expedition an unforgettable wilderness experience.

Rafting on the Siang river | Flickr: rideandclimbadventure

Tons River, Uttarakhand

India’s most thrilling white-water run, the Tons features Grade III–V rapids through narrow gorges. It’s best for experienced rafters seeking multi-day expeditions between April and June.

Tons River, Uttarakhand | euttaranchal/instagram

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