Kaudiyala to Rishikesh: The Full Rafting Route

Most guests book the 24km Marine Drive to NIM Beach run. Guests who want a longer, bigger day can start further upstream at Kaudiyala instead, adding two of the river's biggest rapids, Daniel's Dip and The Wall, above the standard stretch.

The river above Kaudiyala

The Ganga itself begins at Devprayag, where the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers meet, one of the most striking confluences in the Himalaya. From there it's about 29km down to Kaudiyala, where the guided rafting day actually starts.

The route, stage by stage

From Kaudiyala, the river runs roughly 20km down to Shivpuri, then a further 8.4km to NIM Beach, the same take-out as the standard run. It's a longer day on the water than the Marine Drive stretch, 5 to 6 hours depending on conditions and group pace.

The rapids, in order

• Daniel's Dip (III+) — named after Mark Daniels, who dumped his crew here. A large bottom hydraulic with a clean line on either side, if you take it right.
• The Wall (IV) — the river runs left along a tall cliff and pours into a large recirculation, a "hole" in river terms. It's as famous as the rafting itself. Ask your guide for the stories.
• Three Blind Mice (III+) — three rapids back to back. Listen for your guide's commands, the paddling doesn't stop until you're through.
• Crossfire, Bodysurfing, Return to Sender — a run of Grade II-III rapids that keep the pace up without the intensity of The Wall.
• Roller Coaster (III+) — a long wave train with big hits at the top and the exit. Feet braced, no lily-dipping.
• Golf Course (III+) — a steep drop with a history of flips, followed by more big waves waiting at Club House downstream.
• Tee Off, Club House, Jail No Bail, Double Trouble — the run into Rishikesh, easing back down to Grade I-II before the take-out.

Who this is for

Same safety standards as the standard run: PFDs at all times, a full briefing before launch, a dedicated safety kayaker on the water, and no swimming ability required. It's simply a longer, higher-grade day for guests who want more river. For the full grade breakdown of every rapid, see rafting grades explained.

See the full On The Ganga guide, the trip-planning guide, or book your dates directly.