Ganges River Rafting & Elephant Safari


10 days/9 nights

Originating in the Himalayas, the Ganges is an ideal river for rafting in India. Its many tributaries add to the volume of water while its step and pool make it one of the safest expeditions. Additionally, the Ganges is considered the most sacred river in India, worshipped by Hindus as Mother Ganga. Together with an elephant safari in Corbett National Park, one of India's legendary wildlife reserves, enjoy an extraordinary journey through the foothills of Northern India.

Grades: II, III, IV 

Season: September—May

Highlights

Rafting on the sacred Ganges River

Cliff jumping, kayaking, and bonfires in India's diverse terrain

Elephant safari in Corbett National Park

Itinerary Details: 10 days/9 nights

Day 1: Delhi Arrival 

Namaste. Welcome to India! Arrive at Delhi International airport. You will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.

Delhi is a bustling metropolis that incorporates the ancient with the modern. Amidst the skyscrapers, the monuments stand as a silent reminder to India's legacy. Driving from the airport, you will be impressed with Delhi's spacious, tree-lined streets and garden parks. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2: Delhi—Camp

Depart early in the morning for your first class train journey to Haridwar (4.5 hours). Upon arrival, transfer to the rafting camp in nearby Rishikesh. After lunch you will be briefed about camp rules and safety, followed by a 9km raft from Malakunti. In this section, encounter the Three Blind Mice (III) and Cross Fire (II). Dinner around a bonfire. Overnight at camp.

Day 3: Camp

After breakfast, spend a leisurely morning kayaking on the river. Post lunch, raft 10km to NIM beach, encountering the Golf Course (III+) and Roller Coaster (III). Also enjoy cliff jumps into the river. Dinner around a bonfire. Overnight at camp.

Day 4: Camp

This morning, enjoy a short hike that follows the ancient pilgrim route to Badrinath. The rafts will be waiting at the end of the trail for the final run on the river. Today encounter the biggest rapids of the Ganges, the Wall (IV). Bonfire and farewell dinner. Overnight at camp.

Day 5: Camp—Corbett

Depart early in the morning with a pack breakfast and drive through the Rajaji National Park. This is a beautiful drive through diversified terrain—be on the lookout for wild elephants! In the afternoon, arrive at Corbett National Park, one of the most legendary reserves in India for tigers, elephants, and 580 species of birds. Overnight at the magnificent Corbett Riverside Resort on the Kosi River.

Day 6: Corbett

After an early breakfast, your elephant safari begins! Depart for the tiger trail, observing the Ramganga River, marsh crocodiles and hundreds of species of birds. Arrive at Dhikala and enjoy lunch in the open grasslands. Continue to the Dhikala Jungle Rest House for your overnight stay.

Day 7: Corbett

Awake early in the morning to the sweet and melodious sounds of dancing birds. Start your safari early in hopes of viewing a tiger with its prey or a cheetal deer grazing in the open grassland. Pass through the Mandal Valley, a picturesque valley in the Himalayan region. Enjoy your lunch and a short rest along the shores of the Mandal River. Continue to the wooded hillside for incredible bird watching, including the mountain hawk eagle, lesser spotted eagle, brown hawk owl and more. Overnight at Rathuadhab Forest Guest House.

Day 8: Corbett

Today explore the Sonanadi Sanctuary, also known as the River of Gold. Visit the Palain River and Mondiapani before enjoying lunch at a historic forest rest house. Continue to Bamboo forest, a beautiful oasis near the Palain River where you can observe wild elephants playing and bathing. In the evening, celebrate your journey with a traditional farewell dinner. Overnight at Halduparao Forest Rest House.

Day 9: Corbett—Delhi

Transfer to Kotdwar for your 1st class rail journey to Delhi. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Delhi.

Day 10: Departure

After breakfast, enjoy the sights of Old Delhi: Raj Ghat, a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi; Red Fort, a marvel in red sandstone; and Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. In the evening, transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Bon Voyage!

Inclusions

  • Hotel accommodations in Delhi with daily breakfast
  • 3 day/3 night rafting expedition with camp accommodations and daily meals
  • 4 day/4 night safari in Corbett National Park with resort/guest house accommodations and daily meals
  • 1st class train ticketing from Delhi – Haridwar and Kotdwar - Delhi
  • A/C vehicle and driver, per the itinerary
  • Comprehensive touring with an English speaking guide
  • Entrance fees to the monuments
  • Elephant/Jeep ride to Amber Fort
  • Safari services as listed in the itinerary
  • Airport transfers with assistance
  • Road/interstate taxes, fuel surcharges, and parking fees

Exclusions

  • International Airfare
  • Delhi departure tax
  • Any items of a personal nature
  • Additional meals
  • Gratuities
  • Visa Fees

Supplemental Information

  • A visa is required to visit India. 
  • To protect your travel investment, Sodha Travel strongly recommends Travel Insurance.
  • Visit our FAQ page for additional information on traveling to India.

Ganges River Rafting & Elephant Safari Map