Best Adventure Activities in Rishikesh Besides Rafting
When you think of Rishikesh, river rafting is probably the first adventure that comes to mind—and rightfully so. But the “Yoga Capital of the World” isn’t just a hub for spiritual seekers and rafting lovers. It’s also a thrill-seeker’s paradise, offering a wide range of adventure activities that go beyond the rapids of the Ganges.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, here are the top adventure activities in Rishikesh you must try—besides river rafting.
1. Bungee Jumping: Leap into the Void
If there’s one adrenaline-pumping experience that rivals rafting in Rishikesh, it’s bungee jumping at Mohan Chatti. This is India’s highest fixed-platform bungee (83 meters) and run by Jumpin Heights—a certified adventure sports operator.
- Location: Mohan Chatti (about 15 km from Rishikesh)
- Height: 83 meters (273 feet)
- Who Should Try It: Adventure junkies, solo thrill-seekers
- Safety: Highly professional and follows international standards
Tip: Book your slot in advance during the peak season (Oct–June) to avoid long wait times.
2. Giant Swing: A Different Kind of Freefall
Think bungee jumping is too intense? Try the giant swing, where you’re harnessed like in bungee but instead of a freefall, you swing like a pendulum across a wide arc. It’s less intense on the spine and more fun as a group activity.
- Location: Same platform as bungee (Mohan Chatti)
- Swing Arc: Up to 100 meters
- Can Be Done Solo or Tandem
3. Flying Fox: Soar Over the Valley
For those who want to fly like Superman, Flying Fox is the ultimate zipline experience. Glide at speeds up to 140 km/hr over the Ganges valley.
- Length: Over 1 km
- Who Should Try: Families, couples, groups
- Fun Fact: You can do it tandem with friends or go solo
4. Cliff Jumping: Raw and Rugged
Often combined with rafting tours, cliff jumping is a spontaneous thrill that involves jumping off natural rock cliffs into the Ganges. It’s perfect for those who want an unfiltered adrenaline kick.
- Jump Height: Usually 20–30 feet
- Safety: Life jackets mandatory, guided by rafting experts
- Best Spot: Marine Drive to Shivpuri rafting stretch
Note: This activity is river-level dependent. Avoid during monsoon.
5. Trekking: Explore Hidden Trails
Surrounded by hills and forested trails, Rishikesh is a gateway to Himalayan trekking. Choose from nature walks to moderate day hikes:
Popular Trails:
- Neer Garh Waterfall Trek: Short, scenic, and refreshing
- Kunjapuri Temple Sunrise Trek: Panoramic views of snow-capped peaks
- Patna Waterfall Hike: Ideal for families and beginners
Bonus: Combine yoga with trekking at wellness retreats in the hills.
6. Kayaking: Paddle at Your Own Pace
If rafting feels too intense or you want to paddle at your own rhythm, try kayaking on calmer stretches of the Ganga or nearby tributaries.
- Suitable For: Intermediate to experienced paddlers
- Training Available: Yes, at certified schools
- Best Time: Post-monsoon season when waters are clearer
7. Rock Climbing and Rappelling
Adventure camps in and around Rishikesh offer rock climbing and rappelling sessions—great for team building, fitness, and personal challenge.
- Where: Shivpuri, Mohan Chatti, and some eco-camps
- Difficulty: Beginner to intermediate levels
- Gear: Provided on-site by certified trainers
8. Paragliding (Nearby Option)
Though not in the town center, paragliding near Rishikesh (Pauri or Dehradun) is gaining popularity for those who want a bird’s-eye view of the Himalayas and valleys.
- Type: Tandem flights with instructors
- Season: October to March
- Duration: 10 to 30 minutes flights
9. Camping by the Ganga: Nature with a Twist
Combine adventure with comfort in riverside camping. Activities like beach volleyball, bonfires, short hikes, and kayaking are often bundled in the package.
- Best For: Families, couples, groups
- Accommodation: Luxury tents to eco-camps
- Added Fun: Stargazing, riverside meditation, and sunrise yoga
10. Mountain Biking: The Scenic Rush
Cycle through winding hill roads, hidden trails, and forest paths around Rishikesh. It’s a unique way to combine fitness, exploration, and fun.
- Rentals Available: Yes, near Laxman Jhula and Tapovan
- Popular Routes: Tapovan – Neelkanth Road, Rajaji Forest trail
Final Thoughts
Rishikesh is much more than a rafting destination. It’s a thriving hub of land, air, and water-based adventures that offer excitement, challenge, and memory-making moments. Whether you want to jump off a cliff, glide above forests, or hike through the Himalayas, this town has something for every kind of adventurer.
So next time you plan your trip, go beyond rafting—and embrace the full thrill Rishikesh has to offer.
