The Ganga River runs through the mighty Himalayas and offers a variety of rapids and intimate views of the wilderness.  White water rapids are mixed with passages of calm water and the absolute quiet of deep gorges. The challenge is also the rapids itself, as a hike out of it can take four hours or more so you cannot quit at any time and drag your gear out. The river rafting runs 36 kilometer from Kudaiyala to the end of the rafting location at Rishikesh, so you must be committed to rafting a planned route. The outdoor adventure companies offer guided rafting and river excursions through Kudiyala to Rishikesh.

Essential Items for rafting

    Raft or boat

    Paddles

    Life jackets/helmets 

    Food

    Water

    Waterproof bags

    Protective clothing

    Sun hat

    Sunglasses

    Hiking shoes

Step 1

Plan your ideal dates well in advance. Most people raft during the summer, when there is summer vacation and climate get very hot. The river water will help everyone cool off. Spring is cooler for hiking and seeing the trees and flowers bloom, but the temperature is cooler especially at night. In autumn the rafting in Ganga is quieter, and there are less tourists, but the days are also shorter and nights are cold.

Step 2

Choose an outdoor adventure company like realadventureguru.com for river trip, if you are going on your own. A One to Two day trip down starts at Kudiyala, and ends 36 Kilometer downstream after impressive views of the various grades of rapids.

Step 3

Decide on the length of your trip and read all web guidelines carefully. Single day commercial trips are offered down river with a guide. The company will handle all necessary permits, equipment and route information. The company website has a complete list of approved rafting tour packages.

Step 4

Outdoor company Rent or organize the necessary equipment for your trip. Small rafts are typically around 18 feet long and hold four to five people plus an experienced rower to guide the raft through the rapids. Paddle rafts are smaller but allow everyone to work together paddling through the white water, with the experienced member giving instructions from the stern.

Step 5

Study a map of the river where major rapids are described and create a general outline for each day on the river. Determine how far the group can go each day, which spots are good for picnic breaks, short hiking trips and overnight camping. Check that you will have enough food and water and space to store it, and be sure everyone is aware of the plan is case of emergencies, such as capsizing or personal injuries. Being ready in advance will make the trip less stressful and enjoyable.