Current Summary
According to a September 24 ETV Bharat report, Uttarakhand's 2026-27 river rafting season began on Thursday, with rates fixed between Rs 1,000 and Rs 3,500 depending on the route. The Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board held an opening event at Shivpuri in Rishikesh on September 23, distributing licences to registered rafting firms; commercial operations began the following day. Under the revised rate list, the Phool Chatti to Neem Beach (or Kharasrot) stretch is the cheapest route, while the longer Kaudiyala to Neem Beach trip costs Rs 3,500. Under the Uttarakhand River Rafting/Kayaking Rules, 2014, firms have been granted temporary permission for 45 days from September 23, with permanent permission to follow once they complete required procedures and pay prescribed fees. The tourism department is also focusing on guide training, including Wilderness First Aid and CPR training, and licensing compliance. The state plans to promote regulated rafting beyond the Ganga on rivers including the Kali, Tons, Gori, Kosi, Alaknanda, Pindar, Saryu, Ramganga, Bhagirathi and Dhauliganga. The report does not disclose the total number of licensed operators or further details of the guide training programme.
What We Know
- Uttarakhand's 2026-27 river rafting season began September 24, with commercial operations starting a day after the formal opening event.
- Rates range from Rs 1,000 to Rs 3,500 depending on the route.
- Phool Chatti to Neem Beach (or Kharasrot) is the cheapest stretch; Kaudiyala to Neem Beach, the longest route, costs Rs 3,500.
- The Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board held the opening event at Shivpuri, Rishikesh, on September 23, distributing licences to registered rafting firms.
- Under the Uttarakhand River Rafting/Kayaking Rules 2014, firms have been given temporary permission for 45 days from September 23, pending permanent permission after fee payment and procedural completion.
- The tourism department is running Wilderness First Aid and CPR training for guides this season.
- The state plans to expand regulated rafting to other rivers including the Kali, Tons, Gori, Kosi, Alaknanda, Pindar, Saryu, Ramganga, Bhagirathi and Dhauliganga.
What Is Still Unclear
- The total number of rafting operators licensed for the season.
- Further details of the guide training and certification programme.
What Changed
- 24 Sept, 07:10 amSignal detected: Uttarakhand's River Rafting Season Begins With New Rates for Tourists
Background
Rafting on the Ganga near Rishikesh is regulated under the Uttarakhand River Rafting/Kayaking Rules, 2014, which requires operators to hold licences and follow safety and pricing norms set by the state tourism department.