River rafting: grades, safety and what to expect
What rapid grades mean, the safety briefing that matters, how to swim a rapid if you fall in, and what to wear.
The short version
- 1Rapids are graded I (gentle) to VI (unrunnable). Most commercial trips are II to IV.
- 2Wear the life jacket and helmet properly, even if you can swim.
- 3If you fall in: on your back, feet up and pointing downstream, then swim to the raft.
- 4Listen to the guide's commands; paddling together is what keeps the raft upright.
What the grades mean
| Grade | What it's like |
|---|---|
| I | Moving water with small waves. Beginners |
| II | Clear channels, some waves and rocks. Fun for first-timers |
| III | Bigger waves, more manoeuvring. Swims are possible |
| IV | Powerful, fast rapids that need precise moves. Swims are harder |
| V | Long, violent rapids. Experts with specialist safety only |
| VI | Rarely or never run |
Grades change with water levels: the same rapid can go up a grade after rain or in the snowmelt season. Rishikesh's popular stretches on the Ganga are grade II to IV.
The safety briefing
Every trip starts on the bank with a briefing. Pay attention, even if you've rafted before:
- Life jacket (PFD): snug, all buckles done. The guide should be able to pull it up by the shoulders without it reaching your ears.
- Helmet: strap fastened, sits low on your forehead.
- Seating: sit on the side tube, feet wedged under the tube in front or in foot cups.
- Paddle: one hand always on the T-grip at the top. That's what stops it hitting someone's face.
- Commands: forward, back, stop, left back, right back, and "get down" (sit in the raft holding the line).
If you fall in
- 1
Don't panic. Your life jacket will bring you up.
- 2
Get on your back with your feet up and pointing downstream, to bounce off rocks with your feet, not your head.
- 3
Never try to stand up in fast water: your foot can get trapped between rocks.
- 4
Look for the raft or a safety kayak and swim towards it when it's calm enough. Grab the rope or paddle offered to you.
- 5
When someone pulls you in, help by kicking.
What to wear and bring
- Quick-dry shorts and a T-shirt or rash guard. No cotton or jeans.
- Shoes or sandals that strap on firmly; flip-flops come off.
- Sunscreen and a strap for your glasses.
- A full change of clothes and a towel left in the vehicle.
- Leave phones and valuables behind, or use the operator's dry bag.
Season: rafting in Rishikesh runs roughly September to June, and stops in the monsoon when the river runs high.
Put it to use: 1 river rafting adventure on Trail to Tides.
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