Top 10 exciting destinations to go for River Rafting in India

River rafting in India has become one of the most popular water sport. Only an adventurer at heart understands and realizes what it’s like to navigate raging water and treacherous rapids. If you haven’t tried this exhilarating water activity yet, pack your bags and get ready to become an explorer this summer. 

Plunging into raging rapids, maneuvering through violent river currents with oars, bouncing over stubby rocks, clinging to the raft tightly during secretive curves and razor-sharp edges, being drenched in icy-cold waters, screaming one’s lungs out in long perilous stretches, and quashing fears while facing nature’s risky gamble is doubly worth every penny spent!

Crossing the rapids, navigating through the raging water, and finally arriving at the destination offers adventurers one of the most thrilling experiences possible. Water sports have become increasingly popular in India over the years. Because of the shared sense of adventure, it is an ideal activity for large groups and corporate outings with team bonding opportunities. Here are some options to consider if you’re thinking about going river rafting.

Best Places for River Rafting – 

1. Beas, Manali 

Manali has long been a popular year-round tourist destination in northern India. Skiing, paragliding, bungee jumping, and ice skating are among the most popular activities in Manali. Few people are aware that Manali has some of the best rafting spots in the world. A fascinating adventure awaits you as you travel along with the Beas River’s winding flow. You can take in the breathtaking views on both sides of the river while navigating your raft through the calm waters. Newcomers can simply go Manali rafting, and if you’ve been itching to try some adventurous activities, now is the time.

The ideal 20-kilometer stretch from Manaki to Jhiri near Bajaura en route Manali from Bhuntar is one of India’s best rafting stretches. However, there are some short stretches of the Beas River in the Manali region that are suitable for beginner rafting. Pirdi has a dedicated water sports center, which offers a variety of adventure activities in Manali. The sports center also offers rafting, kayaking, and canoeing courses. So, are you ready for the best river rafting in India and especially in Manali? And if you’re interested in a trek then please check The Astounding and Adventurous Beas Kund Trek.

2. River Ganga, Rishikesh 

If you’re looking for another adrenaline rush, river rafting in India and particularly in Rishikesh should be at the top of your list. Rishikesh is well-known for attracting large numbers of tourists each year, the majority of whom are pilgrims and adventure seekers. The Ganges tributaries are known for having rapids up to the fourth grade, so whether you are a novice or an experienced rafting enthusiast, you will have a great time here. The strategic location of the Ganges and the unadulterated nature you gaze at adds to the fun of this adventure.

The route from Rishikesh to Bramhpuri is the most popular rafting route in Rishikesh. This is the shortest route, only 9 kilometers long, and it features several breathtaking vistas as well as level 1 and level 2 rapids. Another popular rafting route is from Rishikesh to Shivpuri. This 15-kilometer course includes grade three rapids. If you want to spice up your rafting adventure, take the Rishikesh to Marine Drive route. This 25-kilometer course is famous for having over 12 rapids with a grade of three or higher. For all the adrenaline junkies, please check 15 Best Things to do in Rishikesh, to make your trip worth cherishing.

3. Gokarna

Gokarna is one of the many places where you can go for white water river rafting in India. It is a popular Hindu pilgrimage site, with renowned sites such as the Mahabaleshwar Temple and the Koti Teertha. You can also enjoy a relaxing seaside vacation at one of Gokarna’s many beaches. White water rafting on the Dandeli River in Dandeli, on the other hand, will be the highlight of your Gokarna vacation. 

River rafting in Gokarna has grown in popularity due to the high-intensity river, good weather, and the availability of good agencies. If you want to make some unforgettable memories, head to the Dandeli River and participate in the rafting trip. To make your trip worth cherishing, please check 12 Fun and Cool Things to do in Gokarna.

4. Kolad

Kolad is a popular tourist destination in Maharashtra, owing to its emphasis on water-based adventure sports and related activities. With a plethora of waterfalls, lush foliage, and fascinating Sahyadris, it is the epitome of beauty. Kolad is a tranquil yet active area that offers adventure activities such as rafting, rappelling, kayaking, rock climbing, and many more, but Kolad River Rafting has recently gained popularity in the tourism sector.

There are hundreds of tour operators available to give you the best and most authentic rafting experience possible. Experienced raft guides will provide you with detailed instructions and training prior to the activity. The river’s difficult rapids will provide you with an exciting ride. It is one of the south’s fastest-flowing rivers, making it ideal for rafting and other adventure sports and activities and also the best place for river rafting.

5. Indus, Ladakh

 The Indus River, which flows through northern Ladakh before entering Pakistan, is its most well-known feature. Though river rafting in Leh is still in its early stages, the rapids are of such magnitude and ferocity that rafting in them is a fantastic experience.

Because of the towering mountains, chilly winds, fresh fragrances in the air, icy rivers, and a sense of possibilities that hangs in the air, white water rafting in Ladakh is a very dramatic experience. Because the rivers have rapids ranging from level I to IV, you can choose the rapid based on the level of difficulty you are willing to accept. Check out these 9 Gorgeous Camping Places in Leh and Ladakh.

6. Bhagirathi, Uttarakhand

Raft down the Bhagirathi River, feeling the rush of the Ganga’s primary tributary. The activity’s exhilaration is among the best you’ll ever experience. The thrilling rafting trip down the Bhagirathi River is an excellent way for adventurers to satisfy their hunger. The waves carry you through rustic villages, through a magnificent valley, and right into the confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers before meeting the Ganga.

Nature at its most beautiful can be seen as the river flows directly through the heart of the Himalayas. Bhagirathi is known for its lush foliage and is also famous for the activities like skiing, river rafting in India.  So pack your bags and get ready for a river adventure.

7. Teesta, Sikkim

The Teesta River is a tributary of the Brahmaputra River that flows 315 kilometers from the eastern Himalayas near Chunthang, Sikkim. The Teesta River is one of the most well-known river rafting destinations in India, with deep ravines and whitewater rapids.

The mesmerizing view of the dense forests along the slopes of the mountains, the vegetation, the many different birds, fishes on the water, combined with the amusement of rafting through torrents and foaming waters provide an unforgettable experience as you raft down Teesta.

Teesta River rafting is ideal for both paddle and oar rafting and provides new excitement for adventure seekers. Sikkim’s swift waters glisten and beckon. This churning, frothing water is the most fascinating idea for white water rafting. Get ready for a thrilling adventure that will take you into the heart of Himalayan fury as you battle elemental forces.

8. Kameng, Twang 

Raft along the strong currents of the Kameng River for an adrenaline-pumping experience amidst the rich tribal culture, the glory of Mother Nature, thick forests, luxurious riverine system, and amazing biodiversity.

Experience the thrill and rush of rafting on the Kameng River, known to be amongst the best places for river rafting. Kameng River is surrounded by a serene North-East habitat. The beguiling and entrancing river, formerly known as the Bhareli River, is waiting to be explored with its varying grades of rapids. The most remote of the wilderness areas offers white river rafting, a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you completely awe-inspired. So pack your bags and prepare for the most enthralling experience of your life.

9. Lohit River, Arunachal Pradesh

The Lohit River enters India in India’s easternmost inhabited tip, at a place named Kibithu, close to the Chinese border. In its upper alpine stages, it is a medium-volume continuous Class 4+/5 river that becomes a pool drop towards the finish of the journey. It has been the site of a few rafting adventures. Lohit River Rafting is still an unspoiled jewel of whitewater rafting and an explored destination for river rafting in India.

10. Barapole, Coorg 

South India has its own share in the adventure! The Barapole River is one of the best places for river rafting available in Coorg. The Barapole River, which runs through Coorg, is an excellent river rafting spot in India.

The spans are divided into two sections: upper and lower river sections. Rapids IV to V is located in the upper section, while Rapids VI to VII is located in the lower section. The Barapole River rushes through lush forests, offering rafters a breathtaking view of the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. A note for all the adventure junkies then, please check The Complete Guide to River Rafting in Coorg.

Few FAQ’s for your river rafting trips-

1. Is river rafting dangerous?

Absolutely not. River rafting is a safe yet adventurous activity if you’re following all the instructions given by the instructor. Rishikesh happens to be one of the safest zones for river rafting as skilled rafting guides will accompany you on your journey. River Rafting in India is very safe, all that it requires is your vigilance and righteousness to perform your thrill activity. 

2. Which is the best place for river rafting in India?

The best place for river rafting in India is Rishikesh, if you are looking for adventure and beauty simultaneously then Rishikesh is the one-stop solution. There are now a plethora of well-known river rafting destinations in India where you can indulge in the sport to your heart’s content. Joining the line, Gokarna, Ladakh, Twang, Coorg are some best places for river rafting. 

3. What to wear when going for river rafting?

You can wear all kinds of apparel but the only thing you need to take care of in mind is to avoid wearing cotton clothes. Stick with technical clothing, clingy clothes are a better option than loose clothes. Since, when you will get down in the water the loose clothes will be filled with water and you won’t be able to comfortably sit on the boat. The same goes for your bottom. Wear proper shoes and socks. Abide by the rules and regulations, you will get the best experiences in the best places available for river rafting in India.