Whitewater Rafting in Himalayas

Himalayas, the land of such diverse adventure sports is also the favorite destination for river rafting, otherwise known as 'white water rafting'. The rivers in the upper Himalayas are the best in the world for river rafting sports. The Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi rivers have many gradients of rapids, suited to both, the amateur and the professional. Just like India Nepal also has a wide range of river rafting regions. Some of the major rafting sites of India are Rishikesh, Kaudiyala, Ladakh, Asan Barrage, and Devprayag. Among the rivers there is Teesta, Beas, Zanskar and Brahmaputra. River rafting in Jammu and Kashmir gives you varied options like the Indus River and its major tributaries.

The best stretch for professionally guided runs in whitewater is on the Indus between Spituk and Saspol. Beyond Saspol, rafting becomes so it requires very skilled people. It is said that Zanskar River is the most difficult river for rafting. The course of the river is through the gorge in the Zanskar Mountains, between Padum and Nimo regions. Ganga is suited to both the amateur and the professional. Ganga near Rishikesh in Uttaranchal is a popular spot for white water river rafting. Nepal also has some excellent opportunities for rafting, as there are numerous rivers, which offers river rafting. River rafting can be great fun for adventure lovers. Normally if you are fit and healthy and not afraid of water then rafting can be your type of sport. To become a skilled rafter you just need a few hours of rigorous training. And training can be available at many tourist agencies and state departments.

Tips for River Rafting

• You should carry your small items in boxes so that it not replaced.
• You should carry a first aid box with you and necessary medications such as bee-sting kits, insulin, inhalers, etc.
• Avoid carrying small items like cell phones, wallets and car keys.
• You should also carry sunglasses with strap so that it doesn't fall and to protect your eyes from ultra violet rays and sunscreen to protect your skin. Disposable waterproof cameras are easily available, easy to take along with you and take good quality pictures.
• Rafting clothes you should carry during summer are nylon shorts, simple swimsuit, sport shoes or sandals, and a hat. During spring and autumn you require some additional clothing. Don't wear cotton cloths while rafting, except in summers as cotton takes away the warmth from your body. Materials like wool, polyester, nylon and other synthetic materials will keep you warmer and will dry faster than cotton.