River Rafting In Uttranchal
The Rapids of sacred river Ganga, offers the professional River Rafting in Garhwall as well as the amateur, the sheer exhilaration of white water rafting. The Alaknanda and the Bhagirathi, are the main tributaries of the Ganga, and meet at Devprayag, frothing from their racy descent. Their waters are Grade IV and Grade V, challenging the expert to survive the thrill.
Down river from Devprayag, the Ganga changes into a pool drop river. This stretch of almost 70 kms, is perfect for the amateur and the novice, for here, the river offers some fine Grade III rapids, and two Grade II rapids, the ‘wall’ at Bysi and the ‘Golf Course” 4 kms below Shivpuri village; each followed by deep and placid pools.
Sandy beaches line the river at intervals, allowing river rafters to pull up alongside, for a spot of relaxation. The slopes on either side, are covered with oak, pine, spruce, and fir, with an occasional village and its terraced fields, dotting the landscape. Wildlife can be sighted at a distance, especially spotted deer, monkeys and leopards. Spiritual retreats and ashrams (hermitages) overlook the river, and add a spiritual flavour to this fantastic experience. River Rafting is Operational from Mid-September to Mid-May.
In Kumaon, the Kali Ganga (Sharda) flows down from the Nepal border, through the Kumaon hills. The Kali and the Jori rivers meet at Jauljivi, where the water level increases, perfect for ace professionals. For over 110 kms from Jauljivi to Tanakpur, its rapids are Grade IV, and more. The tough three days of rafting should be attempted only, by professionals.
Lower down among the forested slopes, the river becomes calmer, offering the amateur a sporting challenge, before flowing out into the plains of Uttaranchal. In the morning enjoy a city tour of Ashrams and Temples and also a visit to Yoga and Meditation centre, afterwards drive to Rudrprayag; confluence of river Mandikini with Alaknanda. Overnight at camps. Raft down to Srinagar. Overnight at camps. Rafting down to Deoprayag where river Alaknanda merges with River Bhagirathi and forms the Ganges. Deoprayag – Kaudiyala, rafting up to Kaudiyala. Kaudiyala – Shivpuri raft down to Shivpuri. And don’t forget to end your stay in the amazing overnight camps with bonfire, food and chitchats with other tourist.
