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 by allowing licensed rafting companies to operate and issuing certifications to qualified river guides.

Benefits

• Rafting companies are permitted to operate legally.
• Licenses issued to river guides provide employment and revenue benefits.

Eligibility

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

Application Process

Offline:

Applications for River Ganga can be submitted between 1st July and 31st July; for other rivers, applications are accepted throughout the year.

1. For running the firm: Submission of application letter, insurance, registration, proof of three years’ experience, and a fee of ₹1,000/-.

2. For River Guide:

• Age: 18 to 50 years.
• Qualification: Minimum 10th (High School) pass.
• Must be capable of swimming and hold valid First Aid Certification.

Applications are scrutinized by the Department and placed before the Technical Committee. Decisions are communicated within 45 days.

Documents Required

For Firm Operation:

• Application Letter and Prescribed Form
• Insurance Certificate of the Firm
• Registration under Firms Societies Act
• Uttarakhand Travel Business Registration Certificate
• Proof of Three Years’ Experience in Adventure Activities
• Details of staff and safety equipment (rafts/kayaks)
• Application Fee Receipt (₹1,000/-)

For River Guide License:

• Medical Fitness Certificate
• Proof of Age (18–50 years)
• Educational Certificate (Class 10 Pass)
• Swimming Capability Proof
• Valid First Aid Certification (Red Cross/St John’s Ambulance, etc.)