Category : Water Sports
Major Area : Himalayas
Best time : Summer season
About River Rafting
India presents umpteen opportunities for adventure sports enthusiasts, but
perhaps none better than the thrilling and exciting sport of river rafting.
If adventure is what you love and often imagine yourselves on the hot seat
while watching a group of people sway past the gushing streams on Discovery
channel, then we have just the kind of dose of adrenaline you need. Also
known as white water rafting, the sport provides ultimate thrill and the
opportunity of challenging the might of the river. Numerous rivers and
streams originate from the Himalayan glaciers and come gushing down to the
plains with all their force, providing excellent rapids for river rafting in
process. A sport for the lion-hearted, not all dare to challenge the
intensity of the streams as it comes foaming, swirling and cutting against
the rocks. While the description may sound a bit grave, there are also other
more calm stretches of the river that offer exciting opportunities for
beginners and amateurs.
Major River Rafting Regions in India
River Rafting in Himachal Pradesh
Famous for its numerous raging rivers, the north Indian state of Himachal
Pradesh offers umpteen opportunities for the thrilling spot of river
rafting. Spread all through the charming state, the rivers provide exciting
opportunities for both professionals and amateurs. Some of the major rivers
in Himachal Pradesh that offer opportunities of river rafting are the Satluj
(near Shimla), Chandrabhaga (Lahaul), Beas (near Kullu) and Ravi (near
Chamba).
River Rafting on Ganges
The river Ganges probably offers the best rafting opportunities for
adventure sports enthusiasts. After originating from Gangotri in the
Himalayas, the river comes crashing down with all its force. While many of
the rapids are meant only for trained professionals, the amateurs can also
enjoy an enthralling session after just a few hours of training. The 36 km
stretch from Kaudilya to
Rishikesh
which is full of rapids is most favoured amongst rafters.
River Rafting on Teesta
River Teesta runs through the exotic locales of Sikkim in north-east India.
As the river comes down to the plains it offers a series of rapids that
range at various intensity levels from challenging to easy. The breathtaking
natural beauty that gives you company all the way is an added advantage.
River Rafting in Ladakh
Some of the best stretches for the sport of river rafting can be found in
the Himalayan city of
Ladakh in
Jammu & Kashmir. The Indus and
its tributaries are the first choice for many river rafting enthusiasts with
the stretch between Spituk and Saspol often witnessing the arrival of people
along with their river rafting gear.
River Rafting on Zanskar
If you are a pro at the sport and want something even bigger and more
exciting, then head off straight toward the Zanskar river. The stretch
between Padum and Nimo is an exciting option that also involves camping in
the wild regions.
River Rafting on Brahmaputra
Brahmaputra comes crashing down the Himalayas across Tibet and into the
north Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, in process providing excellent
opportunities for rafters. The region is not easily accessible, but once
there, the thrill and excitement will make it feel worth the effort.
Tips for River Rafting
- River rafting is a sport which can be easily learnt with just a few
hours of practice under the guidance of a trained professional. It is
essential therefore to get training from a rafting institute, which are
located near all the major river rafting destinations in India.
- Carry along items include dry bags to safeguard your belongings from
water, essential medicines, insulin, sunscreen, sunglasses etc.
- Clothes should be such that dry easily and quickly.
- Avoid carrying things such as car keys etc. while rafting, as loss of
these may land you in trouble.
- A trained professional should always be kept along, especially when
encountering challenging stretches.
