River Rafting Garhwal Himalaya

In Garhwal region the sacred river Ganga offers the professional as well as the amateur the exhilaration of white water rafting. The Alaknanda & Bhagirathi, are the main tributaries of the Ganga and meet at Devprayag, frothing from their racy descent. Their waters are of Grade IV to V, challenging the expert to savour the thrill.

Down river from Devprayag, the Ganga changes into a pool drop river. This stretch of almost 70 kms is perfect for amateur and the novice, for here the river offers some fine Grade III rapids and two Grade IV 'Golf Course' 4 kms below Shivpuri Village; each followed by rapids, the 'wall' at Byasi and the deep and placid pools.

Sandy beaches line the river at intervals, allowing river rafters to pull up alongside. The slopes on either side are covered with oak, pine, spruce and fir, with the occasional village and its terraced fields dotting the landscape. Wildlife is visible at a distance, comprising mainly of spotted deer, monkey, leopard, while multi-hued butterflies flit among flowering bushes. Spiritual retreats and ashrams overlook the river and add to the spiritual experience.

River Running hot spots
The Bhagirathi is the most charted river, particularly the stretch between Devprayag and Rishikesh. There are exciting and safe stretches available for beginners as well as demanding rapids for experts.