Rafting is an extremely popular water sport which has gained a lot of prominence in the last five or six years. No longer the sport of the rich, rafting is being taken up by many adventure enthusiast nowadays, in a reasonably fit condition. Uttarakhand offers some spectacular rafting opportunities for the ardent fan. Take a look at the top rafting spots in Uttarakhand.
Classification of Rafting Grades
Grade 1-The easiest, lesser challenges, mostly occur around plains. Ideal for beginners.
Grade 2-Ideal for novice rafters. The main river passes through rocky patches. Moderate amount of challenge to the rafters.
Grade 3-Tiring and stressful rapids in the rivers. The waves bounce with high speed and navigation requires better skills and techniques.
Grade 4-The River descends into improbable curves, crevices and takes unexpected turns. Only professionals should attempt this grade.
Grade 5-The epitome of the rafting path, this requires an expert navigator’s skill and experience to maneuver through the mighty river and battle the currents and challenges thrown at him or her.
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Rishikesh- River Ganges
The Ganges, originating from Gaumukh, passes through Devprayag and reaches Rishikesh. It is one of the prime spots for rafting enthusiasts, with its subtle flow of water.
Rafting Grade- 1 through 5
Best time to visit- Late October to March. Few stretches doable even post March
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Tons River White Water Rafting :
Tons River valley is one of the most fascinating river valleys in Himalayas. It is located at Netwar village; the confluence of the Rupin and Supin rivers.
Tons river is shallow with many pour-over and tricky rapids. One needs a lots of maneuvering to stay afloat as the river is classified to have class 3 and Class 4 rapids. So its a good ” fear factor” teaser as well as a confidence booster to induldge is rafting across the TONS River valley.
Best time to visit- Between October and November
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Ranikhet- River Kosi
This is a small hamlet in the Almora district of Uttarakhand. Adventure activities include trekking, mountain climbing, and river rafting and rappelling.
Rafting Grade-1, 2
Best time to visit-Between March and May
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Kumaon- River Kali
The Kali Ganga flows all the way from the Nepal border into Kumaon, where it meets the Jori River. The water levels increase at this junction and provide a challenge to rafters. This should be taken up only by ace professionals.
Rafting Grade-4, 5
Best time to visit– March, April, October
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Pithoragarh- River Kali
A place of unsurpassed scenic beauty, Pithoragarh is located in Kumaon. Also known as the “Little Kashmir” of the region, it offers plenty of adventure sports like paragliding, rafting, trekking and fishing.
Rafting Grade- 3 and above.
Best time to visit– March to June, September to December
