Whitewater Rafting

What is Whitewater rafting ?

Whitewater rafting is all about paddling a small or large raft on river rapids. The raft can be manned by one or many adventure seekers. With forward and reverse strokes, they manoeuvre the raft over the rapids. As rafts don’t have guardrails, they may have to swim when things turn choppy. All river rapids are graded according to an international standard. Each river has a particular whitewater class rating, with the maximum grade of VI being considered ‘unrunnable’ for commercial rafts. The rating scale is prepared according to the severity of the rapids and the skill and experience required for navigation.

Where to go ?

Whitewater rafting hot spots are River Ganga in Rishikesh & Shivpuri in Uttaranchal, and on River Kali in Dandeli in Karnataka.

River Ganga is every rafting enthusiast’s dream. The 70-km stretch from Devprayag to Rishikesh offers plenty of excitement. Over the last few years, several river rafting camps have come up along this stretch. Rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi in Uttar Pradesh and the Kali Ganga are challenging for the seasoned player. In the lower reaches of these rivers, beginners can learn to ride the rapids. Other popular stretches are Barkot to Lakha Mandal and Damta to Yamuna Bridge on the Yamuna. Rivers Chenab, Teesta and Rangeet are also popular with whitewater rafting enthusiasts.

October to March is the best time to go whitewater rafting on River Ganga, while November to April is the best time to go rafting on River Kali. Avoid the monsoon months. You need special permits from the Ministry of Home Affairs where rapids flow in ‘restricted zone’ limits.

What you need to know ?

Whitewater rafting can be pursued by almost anyone. However, it is important to be in good physical condition to try it, especially while navigating tough rapids. Whitewater rafting is certainly not a sport recommended for pregnant women, and people with diabetes or heart and lung impairment.

What you must carry ?

Choose a strong and light raft. Usually, rafts have inflatable compartments with vulcanised rubber bodies reinforced by nylon fabric to navigate sharp rocks. These rafts are provided by the operators/clubs that you sign up with. Pack your life jacket and helmet, sleeping bag, sneakers, quick-drying clothes, swimsuit, shorts and T-shirts, sunshades, suntan lotion, torch and two pairs of shoes. Tour operators usually provide wetsuits, life jackets, pump, patch kit and throw rope.

Whitewater Rafting : Hotspots

Whitewater Rafting : Do's and Don'ts