If you are looking for a holiday packed with adventure, fun and thrills; you have to look no further. Whitewater rafting holidays are what you need for that adrenaline rush. And you do not even have to think outside India when thousands of people from around the world rush to this country for taming the hungry rapids. The most famous and mighty rapids are focused in Northern India which makes the region a hotspot rafting destination. Every year, millions of rafters, amateurs and experienced make the best of their rafting holidays in the mighty waters of India. Listed below are the top picks of rafting destinations you should not miss out on.
1. River Rafting in Rishikesh
There is a lot that we know about the divine Ganga but there is a more turbulent side to this holy river that only a rafter can experience. The 16km stretch from Shivpuri to Lakshman Jhula in Rishikesh involves rapids ranging from Grade 1 to Grade 4. There are over 13 rapids with interesting names along the course that have invited celebrities from around the world. Rishikesh is undoubtedly the number one rafting destination in India. Visit the rapids between September and June for maximum fun and chills.
2. River Rafting In Indus
The Indus River in Ladakh originates near Kailash Mountains, passes through exotic mountain passes before flowing into Pakistan. June to late August when the water levels are high is the best season for whitewater rafting. While many of the areas along the course introduce grade 1 and 2 rapids; there are some stretches that also show you the thrills of grade 5 rapids. Zanskar River is a remote tributary of the Indus that is the most visited rafting destination. At least five days of intense rafting besides many days of jeep rides through exotic Himalayan forests, make Zanskar rafting one of the most sought after in India.
3. River Rafting in Sikkim
If river rafting in Rishikesh gives you the chills; you must visit the Teesta and Rangit Rivers in Sikkim. The Teesta is one of the most rugged rivers in the country and poses a challenge even to the most experienced of rafters. This is the main river of Sikkim and has mighty rapids. The Rangit is a tributary of Teesta and is equally turbulent. October to April is the best time to raft in these rivers.
4. River Rafting in Uttarakhand
Garhwal located in the Western part of Uttarakhand is not just a picturesque town but is home to the spectacular Tons River. The Tons is a turbulent tributary of Yamuna and runs with more fury. If you are an experienced rafter and want to go through the chills of grade 3 to 5 rapids; Tons is where you need to head to for your whitewater rafting holidays. Reckoned as one of the most challenging rafting expeditions in the country; this destination is not for the faint of hearts.
India is land of numerous rafting destinations; some explored and many unexplored. From Tuting in Brahmaputra River in Arunachal Pradesh to the rapids in Bhagirathi; rafting in India is an adventure sport with more chills than any other.
