Operation of River Rafting / Kayaking Activities

The scheme “Operation of River Rafting / Kayaking Activities” is implemented by the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board under the Department of Tourism, Government of Uttarakhand. The scheme aims to promote safe and regulated adventure tourism in the state by allowing licensed rafting companies to operate and issuing certifications to qualified river guides.

Rafting companies are permitted to operate, and licenses are issued to river guides, providing revenue benefits to the state and economic benefits to tourism businesses.

1. The applicant must be a resident of Uttarakhand for at least ten years or a native of the state.
2. The applicant should possess advanced practical and technical knowledge of aero sports.

Offline

(1) Applicants seeking permission for River Rafting/Kayaking can apply between 1st July and 31st July for the River Ganga, and throughout the year for other rivers.

1. For running the firm:

• Application letter
• Prescribed application form
• Insurance of the firm
• Valid registration under the Firms/Societies Act
• Uttarakhand Travel Business Registration Certificate
• Three years of experience in adventure activities
• Details of the staff working in the firm
• Details of rafts/kayaks/safety equipment
• Application fee as per rules: Rs. 1000/-

1. For River Guide:

• Be in good health
• Age should be between 18 and 50 years
• Minimum educational qualification: Must have passed 10th (High School) class
• Be capable of swimming
• Every guide must hold a valid First Aid Certification issued by Red Cross, St. John's Ambulance, or other recognized organizations

(1) After due scrutiny of the applications by the Department, they are placed before the Technical Committee.
(2) After inspection by the Technical Committee, all applicants are informed about the permission, along with reasons, by the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board within a maximum period of 45 days.

For Rafting/Kayaking Firm Operation:

1. Application Letter
2. Prescribed Application Form
3. Insurance Certificate of the Firm
4. Valid Registration Certificate under the Firms Societies Act
5. Uttarakhand Travel Business Registration Certificate
6. Proof of Three Years’ Experience in Adventure Activities
7. Details of the Firm’s Working Staff
8. Details of Rafts/Kayaks/Safety Equipment
9. Application Fee Receipt (₹1000/-)

For River Guide License:

1. Medical Fitness Certificate (proving complete health)
2. Proof of Age (18–50 years)
3. Educational Qualification Certificate (Class 10 Pass)
4. Swimming Capability Proof (self-declaration or training certificate if applicable)
5. Valid First Aid Certification (from Red Cross/St John’s Ambulance/other recognised institutions)