Adventure things to do in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India

Nestled at the foot of the Himalayas, along the banks of the Ganges, Haridwar has been on the bucket list of many an Indian and non-Indian traveller. While it is one of the most important pilgrimage spots for Hindus, Haridwar is also very close to Rishikesh, where adventure-seekers gather to experience rafting in Rishikesh.

Things to do in Haridwar: Valley of Flowers

The Valley of Flowers trek is a moderate trek and is great for both first-timers as well as experienced trekkers looking to visit. Despite the ease and popularity of this trek, the beauty of the valley remains pure and untouched. Every few days, some blooms fade, while new buds open up, creating a rainbow of perpetually changing colour. The sight of the Valley of Flowers, full of colourful blossoms of various hues and shades, nestled between rugged Himalayan slopes, is one that you will cherish forever. Apart from this, there are waterfalls, glaciers, towering mountains, mighty rivers and quaint villages to be explored.

Things to do in Haridwar: Kedarkantha trek

Kedarkantha is a beautiful ridge mountain peak in the Tons River Valley, Uttarakhand, India. Because of its elevation of 12,500 feet, the summit offers stunning 360-degree views of some of the highest Himalayan peaks like Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, and Black Pearl in the Himalayas. On a trek to Kedarkantha, you will pass through the Govind Wildlife sanctuary and national park, so you can expect to see plenty of flora and fauna.

Things to do in Haridwar: Rafting in Rishikesh

If you’re in Haridwar, do make time for a rafting trip to Rishikesh. Rishikesh rafting is one of the best spots to go rafting because the Ganges is wide, green, and cold here. Rishikesh rafting is popular here because of the different grades of rapids on offer. While rafting in Rishikesh, depending on the section of the river you choose, you could experience everything from the milder Grade I and II, to the epic boiling stretch of the Grade IV rapids. At the end, you’ll head for a quiet stretch of the river, where you can take a dip, or try your hand at body surfing or cliff jumping.

Best season for Rishikesh rafting

The best time for rafting in Rishikesh is during the summer months of March, April and May, when the cold water is very tempting. But during the monsoon months, all the way till September or October, rafting in Rishikesh is fun thanks to the added force of the water. After that, you can still go rafting, but the water gets very cold.

Rishikesh rafting: Camping and rafting packages

Every day, hordes of adventure seekers arrive, seeking Rishikesh rafting trips. Just outside the main area, there are campsites set up to cater to these travellers. Most of these campsites offer Rishikesh rafting and camping packages. Depending on your budget, you can stay in tents, cottages, or rooms. Your Rishikesh rafting and camping package usually involves all meals, a campfire in the evening, and a Rishikesh rafting session the next day.