Exploring India’s rising river rafting destinations

Exciting rapids and beautiful sceneries beyond Rishikesh and Manali

Though Manali and Rishikesh are well-known and popular as river rafting destinations in India, there are plenty of other gems offering the same degree of thrill and beauty, if not more. Explore beyond India's rising rafting locations to encounter the exhilarating rapids and stunning scenery. These emerging destinations offer a mix of adventure, cultural immersion, and sustainable tourism, making them must-visit spots for those seeking an unforgettable journey amidst nature's splendor.

India, featuring its varied landscapes and vast river systems, presents a multitude of thrilling river rafting opportunities beyond the well-known locations of Rishikesh and Manali. Although these popular destinations have long been favoured by thrill-seekers, numerous new locations are emerging that offer distinctive scenery, exhilarating rapids, and chances to discover the unexplored areas of India’s rivers such as the Teesta River in Sikkim, the Barapole and Kali rivers in Karnataka and the Kameng River in Arunachal Pradesh.

Teesta River, Sikkim

The Teesta River, which flows from the Himalayas in Sikkim, is famous for its raging waters and stunning scenery. It provides rapids that vary from Grade II to Grade IV, catering to both novice and seasoned rafters. The most favored rafting segment is from Makha to Sirwani or Rangpo, allowing thrill-seekers to experience an adrenaline rush while appreciating the area’s scenic beauty. The ideal period for enjoying rafting on the Teesta River is between March and May, as well as September and November, when conditions are pleasant and water levels are at their best. This time enables rafters to thoroughly enjoy the stunning.

Barapole River, Coorg

In the scenic Coorg district of Karnataka awaits another treasure for river rafting lovers, the Barapole River. It features Grade II to Grade IV rapids, delivering an exciting adventure within vibrant green woods and gentle hills. The tranquil environment of the river and its thrilling rapids create an ideal spot for adventure seekers in South India. The ideal time to raft on the Barapole River is in the monsoon season, from June to September, when the river is full and the rapids are incredibly exciting. This time not only provides an exhilarating adventure but also lets rafters see the vibrant splendor of Coorg in its complete glory.

Kameng River

Arunachal Pradesh, featuring its unspoiled scenery and clear rivers, offers a distinct rafting adventure on the Kameng River. It provides rapids classified as Grade III to Grade IV, making it ideal for seasoned rafters seeking a challenge. The river’s picturesque allure, along with the difficult rapids, creates an unforgettable experience in the Eastern Himalayas.

The optimal period for rafting on the Kameng River is between November and March, as the weather remains clear and the water levels stabilise, ensuring an exhilarating and smooth experience. This time also provides a view of the vibrant cultural legacy and diverse wildlife of Arunachal Pradesh.

Kali River

Dandeli, located in the Western Ghats in Karnataka, is a well-known spot for river rafting in South India. The Kali River, running through Dandeli, features Grade III and IV rapids, delivering an exciting experience for thrill-seekers. The vibrant green scenery, thick woods, and varied fauna of Dandeli create an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The optimal period to go to Dandeli for rafting is between November and June, as the climate is enjoyable and the river conditions are perfect for rafting. This time frame enables guests to experience the excitement of rafting while also discovering the area’s abundant biodiversity and scenic beauty.

When organising a river rafting adventure to these up-and-coming locations, it is important to take into account several crucial aspects. First, make sure to go during the optimal rafting season for every site to enhance the experience. Additionally, visitors should consistently wear appropriate safety equipment and adhere to the instructions given by local operators. Interacting with local guides who understand the river conditions can offer important perspectives on the area’s culture and history. Finally, visitors need to pay attention to the local surroundings and honour the natural habitats one finds during the journey.