6 best places for river rafting in India

The beginning of March brings hopes to all the adventure enthusiasts in India. This is the time when people don’t actually feel bad about the approaching summers. In fact, they seek for opportunities that would let them enjoy the exciting activities that are offered in different parts of India. The trend of adventure sports in India is still in its initial phase, but it’s catching up fast amongst the young generation. Out of all the adrenaline pumping adventures, river rafting is one such activity that has gained popularity over last few years. Ideal for anyone who’s up for a thrill ride through the gushing waters of rivers, there are plenty of places for river rafting in India. Mentioned below is a list compiled for you.

1. Ganges River – Rishikesh

Rishikesh is an adventure house, offering activities such as rafting, trekking, rock climbing and more. When it comes to white water rafting, it is possibly one of the best places to try the sport in India. Stretching from Shivpuri to Lakshman Jhula, approximately 16 kilometers in total, there are as many as 13 rapids that can be experienced in the River Ganges. The camps are placed in Shivpuri (a sandy beach) from where you can enjoy the views of crystal clear water from the Ganges.

Rapid Grade: 1 to 4

Suitable for: Beginners as well as experts

Best time to go: October to May

Click here for hotels at Shivpuri in Rishikesh

2. Beas River – Manali

Manali is yet another good rafting destination in India. Stretching from Pirdi and continuing up to 14 kilometers down to Jhiri, sailing on the River Beas is an exhilarating experience. The views of the Pir Panjal Range along the way are spellbinding. The journey would take an hour and a half, but the memories will stay for a lifetime. The rafting is available throughout the year except from July to September.

Rapid Grade: 1 and 3

Suitable for: Beginners as well as experts

Best time to go: April to June

3. Zanskar River – Ladakh

If you thought Ladakh is all about bikers, trekkers and mountain lovers, then you are up for a surprise. Ladakh offers rafting on Zanskar River, which starts from Padum and ends at the Zimo region. During the rafting route, you will come across the stunning views of remote and unseen areas of Ladakh, and at the end, you will see the river emerging into River Indus. There are other routes as well, like from Phey to Nimo, Upshi to Kharu, Upshi to Nimo and Phey to the Indus-Zanskar confluence at Nimo.

Rapid Grade:Grade 1, 3 and 4

Suitable for: Someone with basic knowledge of rafting and experts

Best time to go: July to August

4. Brahmaputra River – Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh

Image Credits: outlookindia.com

This is one of the longest river rafting routes in India. Starting from Tuting and stretching up to Pasighat, which is approximately 180 kilometers distance, the expedition lasts for 3-5 days. There are some exciting rapids, namely Ninguing, Pulsating Pulsi, Toothfairy and Karo Killer that you will have to face during rafting. Camping is available along the Brahmaputra River, surrounded by tropical forests, gorges and beautiful scenery.

Rapid Grade: Grade 4 and 5

Suitable for: Experts

Best time to go: November and December

5. Kundalika River – Kolad

A hotspot rafting destination in Maharshtra, Kolad is located within the depths of the Sahyadri mountain range. Like the Zanskar River, the rafting season on Kundalika River is limited to a particular season. It is only during monsoons that the rapids are formed in the river, and it turns wild enough for you to enjoy the rafting.

Rapid Grade: Grade 3 and 4

Suitable for: Beginners as well as experts

Best time to go: July to September

6. Teesta River – Bhalkhola, Sikkim

Teesta River, the river flowing through Sikkim, Darjeeling and Kalimping Hill is an ideal one for rafting for veterans. The turbulent Rangit, a tributary of the Teesta has rocks and stones around the water, thus blessing it with a string of rapids. You might also witness multi-dimensional rapids which are a challenge to the novice as well as skilled rafters.

Rapid Grade: Grade 2 to 4

Suitable for: Beginners as well as experts

Best time to go: October to April

If we missed out on any of your favourite rafting spots, do mention it in the comments below.