Rafting in India
River rafting in India is one of the most popular adventure sports in the country. There are several places in the north of India such as in Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Sikkim that are great for water rafting.
The rivers here are fed by melting snow from the mighty Himalayas and this, coupled with breath-taking views of mountains on either side, makes the rafting experience in India unique and enjoyable.
In central and south India, adventure enthusiasts head to Maharashtra, Karnataka and Coorg for white water rafting.
River rafting in Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand in North India is home to numerous mountain-fed rivers which are ideal for rafting. Most of the rivers here are fast paced, making it exciting for rafting lovers. The rivers which offer the best experiences in Uttarakhand are the Ganga, Alaknanda, Bhagirathi or Yamuna
The holy town of Rishikesh is one of the world’s best rafting destinations. There are different stretches of varying length and intensity that you can choose from, all offering you a water rafting experience best suited to your experience, group, and time limitation.
The most famous rapids in Rishikesh are Return to Sender, Roller Coaster, Three Blind Mice, Double Trouble, Tee Off and Golf Course, and these range from Grade I to IV. All river rafting packages here offer cliff-jumping and body surfing at the end of the rafting trip, once you get to more peaceful waters.
River rafting in Maharashtra
Located in the lap of the Sahyadri mountain range, Kolad is home to the Kundalika river which is the fastest river in the South and is perfect for rafting.
Kolad is conveniently located at a 2.5 hour drive from Mumbai or Pune and offers a stretch of 15-16 km, with several rapids ranging from Grade II to III. The benefit of rafting here is that the river is not dependent on the weather.
Every morning at about 09:00 hrs, the nearby Bhira dam releases water, and the Kundalika river turns into a seething, churning beast. The adrenaline rush of rafting through thick forests on a powerful river will give you an exhilarating experience and a memorable weekend break.
River rafting in Ladakh
Rafting here is unlike any other place in the country. You cut through the mesmerizing landscape as you ride the Indus and Zanskar river. While battling the white frothy waves of these rivers, you are treated to some of the most unique and breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains and the Ladakhi deserts.
The Zanskar river route is one for the rafting enthusiast. It offers challenging rapids that go till Grade V, putting your skills to the test. The route begins in Sarchu and terminates at Nimmo.
You pass through ancient gorges towering rock walls and the Ladakhi desert to keep you company. You travel by many secluded villages on the banks of the river; their slow paced lives in complete contrast to the racing rivers.
River Rafting in Himachal Pradesh
When summer brings with it all the heat and humidity, the best way to escape is by rafting in Himachal Pradesh, specifically Manali. The Himalayan rivers are unparalleled when it comes to rafting.
Riding through the rivers, you will look with peeled eyes at some of the most stunning landscapes hiding in the mountainous regions. The average distance is between 7-14 kms and you tackle Grade II and III rapids
River rafting in Karnataka
This rafting experience takes place in Dandeli, on the border of the beautiful state of Karnataka. Known for its vibrant forests and spectacular wildlife, it involves riding the river Kali. When the water is at a respectable level, adventurers can go on coracle rides and whitewater rafting
In this multi-day adventure, you'll live out in nature in a forest lodge and head out every day to try your hand at different adventure activities. Your package includes rappelling, zip-lining, kayaking, a coracle cruise in the river, and nature walks, as well as one thrilling jungle safari.
As you retire to your lodge in the evening, relax by the bonfire or the riverside as you get well-deserved rest.
River Rafting in India – Other locations
There are numerous other beautiful rafting locations in India. The Teesta River in Sikkim and Darjeeling, Brahmaputra River in Arunachal Pradesh, River Barapole in Coorg, Karnataka and the Beas River in Kullu-Manali are some of the top-rated river rafting hotspots in India.
Another exciting experience is the Indus River in Jammu and Kashmir that flows through the desert landscape as does the Zanskar river in Ladakh. Rafting on the whirling river offers stunning views as your raft winds its way between stark mountain walls, each a few hundred feet high.
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