White Water Rafts | White Water Rafting

Rafting or white water rafting is a challenging recreational outdoor activity using an inflatable raft to navigate a river or other bodies of water. This is usually done on white water or different degrees of rough water, in order to thrill and excite the raft passengers. The development of this activity as a leisure sport has become popular since the mid-1970s. It is considered an extreme sport, as it can be dangerous.

White Water Rafts:

The modern raft is an inflatable boat, consisting of very durable, multi-layered rubberized or vinyl fabrics with several independent air chambers. The length varies between 3.5 m (11 ft) and 6 m (20 ft), the width between 1.8 m (6 ft) and 2.5 m (8 ft). The exception to this size rule is usually the packraft, which is designed as a portable single-person raft and may be as small as 1.5 metres (4.9 ft) long and weigh as little as 4 pounds (1.8 kg).

Rafts come in a few different forms. In Europe, the most common is the symmetrical raft steered with a paddle at the stern. Other types are the asymmetrical, rudder-controlled raft and the symmetrical raft with central helm (oars). Rafts are usually propelled with ordinary paddles and typically hold 4 to 12 persons. In Russia, rafts are often hand made and are often a catamaran style with two inflatable tubes attached to a frame. Pairs of paddlers navigate on these rafts. Catamaran style rafts have become popular in the western United States as well, but are typically rowed instead of paddled.

Grades of White Water Rafting:

Below are the six grades of difficulty in white water rafting. They range from simple to very dangerous and potential death or serious injuries.

Grade 1:

Very small rough areas, might require slight maneuvering. (Skill Level: Very Basic)

Grade 2:

Some rough water, maybe some rocks, might require some maneuvering. (Skill level: basic paddling skill)

Grade 3:

Whitewater, small waves, maybe a small drop, but no considerable danger. May require significant maneuvering. (Skill level: experienced paddling skills)

Grade 4:

Whitewater, medium waves, maybe rocks, maybe a considerable drop, sharp maneuvers may be needed. (Skill level: whitewater experience)

Grade 5:

Whitewater, large waves, large volume, possibility of large rocks and hazards, possibility of a large drop, requires precise maneuvering. (Skill level: advanced whitewater experience)

Grade 6:

Class 6 rapids are considered to be so dangerous as to be effectively unnavigable on a reliably safe basis. Rafters can expect to encounter substantial whitewater, huge waves, huge rocks and hazards, and/or substantial drops that will impart severe impacts beyond the structural capacities and impact ratings of almost all rafting equipment. Traversing a Class 6 rapid has a dramatically increased likelihood of ending in serious injury or death compared to lesser classes. (Skill level: successful completion of a Class 6 rapid without serious injury or death is widely considered to be a matter of great luck or extreme skill)

Techniques for White Water Rafts:

Rafts in white water are very different vehicles than canoes or kayaks and have their own specific techniques to maneuver through whitewater obstacles.

Punching:

Rafts carry great momentum, and on rivers hydraulics that are dodged by canoes and kayaks are often punched by rafts. This involves the rafting crew paddling the raft to give it enough speed to push through the hydraulic without getting stopped.

High siding:

If a raft is caught in a hydraulic it will often quickly go sideways. In order to stop the raft flipping on its inside edge, the rafters can climb to the side of the raft furthest downstream, which will also be the side of the raft highest in the air leading to its name. In this position the rafters may be able to use the draw stroke to pull the raft out of the hydraulic.

Capsizing:

Dump truck:

Rafts are inherently stable crafts because of their size and low center of mass and often they will shed gear and passengers before they actually capsize. In the industry if a raft dumps some or all of its passengers but remains upright, it is said to have dump trucked.

Left over right or right over left:

Rafts almost always flip side over side. If the left tube rises over the right tube, the raft is said to have flipped left over right and vice versa.

Taco:

If a raft is soft, or underinflated, it may taco, or reverse taco. Rafts are said to have tacoed if the middle of the raft buckles and the front of the raft touches or nearly touches the back of the raft. This often is a result of surfing in a hydraulic. A reverse taco is when the nose, or stern of the raft is pulled down under water and buckles to touch the middle or back, or nose of the raft.

End over end:

Occasionally rafts will flip end over end. This is usually after the raft has dump trucked to lighten the load, allowing the water to overcome the weight of the boat flipping it vertically before it lands upside down. Rafts will usually taco and turn sideways, making an end-over-end flip a very rare flip in most rafts.

Re-righting:

Flip line:

The flip line technique is the most used in commercial rafting where flips are common. The guide will take a loop of webbing that has a carabiner on it and attach it to the perimeter line on the raft, Standing on top of the upside down raft they will hold the line and lean to the opposite side from where the flip line is attached, re-righting the raft.

Knee flipping:

Capsized rafts that are small enough with little or no gear attached can be knee flipped. This involves the rafter holding the webbing on the underside of the raft, and pushing their knees into the outer tube, and then lifting their body out of the water, leaning back to overturn the raft.

T rescue:

Much like the kayak technique some rafts are large enough that they need to be overturned with the assistance of another raft or land. Positioning the upturned raft or land at the side of the raft the rafters can then re-right the raft by lifting up on the perimeter line.

Tricks:

Rock splats:

If the rafters load the back of the raft, they can paddle the raft into a rock on the river, having it hit the bottom of the boat instead of the nose; if done correctly this can raise the raft up vertically on its stern.

Surfing:

Commercial rafts often use waves on rivers to surf.

Nose dunks:

Large rafts can enter hydraulics called holes from downstream and submerge their nose, or reverse taco. This can be a safe way to get rafters wet in a hydraulic.

Pirouette:

A move executed by either a sweep or draw stroke, sending the raft spinning with the current. Often useful for avoiding obstacles.

Safety:

White water rafting can be a dangerous sport, especially if basic safety precautions are not observed. Both commercial and private trips have seen their share of injuries and fatalities, though private travel has typically been associated with greater risk. Depending on the area, legislated safety measures may exist for rafting operators. These range from certification of outfitters, rafts, and raft leaders, to more stringent regulations about equipment and procedures. It is generally advisable to discuss safety measures with a rafting operator before signing on for a trip. The equipment used and the qualifications of the company and raft guides are essential information to be considered.

Like most outdoor sports, rafting in general has become safer over the years. Expertise in the sport has increased, and equipment has become more specialized and increased in quality. As a result the difficulty rating of most river runs has changed. A classic example would be the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon or Jalcomulco River in Mexico, which has swallowed whole expeditions in the past, leaving only fragments of boats. In contrast, it is now run safely by commercial outfitters hundreds of times each year with relatively untrained passengers.

Risks in white water rafting stem from both environmental dangers and from improper behavior. Certain features on rivers are inherently unsafe and have remained consistently so despite the passage of time. These would include "keeper hydraulics", "strainers" (e.g. fallen trees), dams (especially low-head dams, which tend to produce river-wide keeper hydraulics), undercut rocks, and of course dangerously high waterfalls. Rafting with experienced guides is the safest way to avoid such features. Even in safe areas, however, moving water can always present risks—such as when a swimmer attempts to stand up on a rocky riverbed in strong current, risking foot entrapment. Irresponsible behavior related to rafting while intoxicated has also contributed to many accidents.

One of the most simple ways to avoid injury while out of a raft, is to swim to an Eddy (a calm spot behind a rock in the water which the current disperses around) to avoid being taken downstream.

To combat the illusion that rafting is akin to an amusement park ride, and to underscore the personal responsibility each rafter faces on a trip, rafting outfitters generally require customers to sign waiver forms indicating understanding and acceptance of potential serious risks. Rafting trips often begin with safety presentations to educate customers about problems that may arise.

White water rafting is often played for the adrenaline rush and this often becomes a problem for people and their own safety. White water rafting accidents have occurred but are not common.
Due to this the overall risk level on a rafting trip with experienced guides using proper precautions is low. Thousands of people safely enjoy raft trips every year.

Environmental issues:

Like all outdoor activities, rafting must balance its use of nature with the conservation of rivers as a natural resource and habitat. Because of these issues, some rivers now have regulations restricting the annual and daily operating times or numbers of rafters.

Conflicts have arisen when rafting operators, often in co-operation with municipalities and tourism associations, alter the riverbed by dredging and/or blasting in order to eliminate safety hazards or create more interesting whitewater features in the river. Environmentalists argue that this may have negative impacts to riparian and aquatic ecosystems, while proponents claim these measures are usually only temporary, since a riverbed is naturally subject to permanent changes during large floods and other events.

Rafting contributes to the economy of many regions which in turn may contribute to the protection of rivers from hydroelectric power generation, diversion for irrigation, and other development. Additionally, white water rafting trips can promote environmentalism. By experiencing firsthand the beauty of a river, individuals who would otherwise be indifferent to environmental issues may gain a strong desire to protect and preserve that area because of their positive outdoor experience.

White Water Rafting Pictures:

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White Water Rafting in Teesta | White Water Rafting in Teesta & Rangeet River

White Water Rafting is an Adventure Hill Sport, which is relatively new in the Darjeeling Hills having introduced in 1991. Since then the sport has gained immense popularity all over the region. Beckon the strong hearted as Darjeeling is also home to the mighty River Teesta and Rangeet whose turbulent currents make a formidable challenge to even the seasoned rafter. There is however a wide range in the intensity of the rapids making it adequate for all, the young and the aged to enjoy the spectacular scenery while leisurely snaking down the river. The Dept. of Tourism, DGHC has successfully promoted this sport and has acquired well trained members and quality equipment ensuing a safe and pleasant ride to all visitors.

Tourist should spare a day during their stay in Darjeeling and take a one and half hour drive down to Teesta Bazar to enjoy this Hill Sport. "Assumption of Risk and Release" bond has to sign before undertaking the trip.

The Teesta River, is the main drainage of Sikkim, Darjeeling, and Kalimpong Hill Region. It has been graded on the International scale at Grade 4. The icy cold waters of the rugged Teesta have a series of rapids with varying intensity, and character. It offers one of the finest rafting stretches. The Rangit, a tributary of the Teesta, has more turbulent waters. With its multi-dimensional rapids, it offers a challenge to more experienced rafters.

On both the rivers, the riverbanks have deep forests, with some patches of terraced cultivation, and small villages. Plenty of white sandy beaches exist, offering good campsites. Rapids of classification 2 to 4 are interspersed with placid floats, making rafting an enjoyable experience.

Foreign Tourists in Darjeeling

Foreigners are required to carry their passport as it has to be produced while signing the "Assumption of Risk and Release" bond and also before crossing the Teesta Bridge.

Checklist for White Water Rafting

• Set of dry clothes
• Extra pair of sneakers, waterproof, sandals, canvas shoes
• Sun cap, sun glasses
• Half pants, Swim suit.
• Water bottle
• Sun tan / Sun block lotion
• Towel
• Dry Shoes and socks
• Warm Jacket
• Personal toiletries
• Specific medicine
• Flash light

White water rafting in Darjeeling got its name from the white foam produced from the water as it gushes over the rocks and boulders. In Teesta rafting is confined to the winter months, between October and April. Spring or early summer is ideal for river rafting. Paddle rafting and oar rafting can be done in the Teesta River.

Caution for Water Rafting:

Alochol is not permitted at least six hour prior to the river trip. People suffering from epilepsy, weak heart condition or any other serious aliment are discouraged from rafting. Accomodation can be availed at Chitrey Wayside Inn for overnight stay.

Formalities for Water Rafting:

All foreign clients are to carry their passport which will be required at the ‘Teesta Bridge’ while crossing and also enter details of the same on Bond Form.

Important:

Persons suffering from weak heart conditions, epilepsy, expecting mothers and those with serious ailments are not permitted to go rafting.

Consumption of any intoxicant is not permitted. Age limit 14 years on all sections except the float trips, where it is relaxed to 10 years.

Non-swimmers are welcome but may be restricted to certain sections of the river, on the advice of the River Guide/Trip Leader.

Course for White Water Rafting:

For non-swimmers:

1. Melli to 29th Mile (1.5 hours).

2. Melli to Kalijhora (3 hours).

Only for swimmers:

1. Tarkhola to Malli (2 hours).

2. Tarkhola to 29 Mile (3 hours).

You can know more about of Darjeeling at http://darjeelinginformation1.blogspot.com/

Images of White Water Rafting in Teesta & Rangeet River:

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White River Water Rafting | White Water Rafting | White Water Rafting In India

White water rafting in India is almost exclusively confined to the northern rivers which flow southwards from the Himalayas, gushing between densely forested mountains and through steep gorges. Rivers such as the Alaknanda, Bhagirathi, Indus, Zanskar and Teesta offer `raft-worthy’ rapids, and a trip down a river can be a great way to see the countryside. Whether the expedition’s just a few hours of getting soaked and experiencing the thrills of a high-action Hollywood flick- or it stretches over a few days in which you spend time camping and trekking as well- this is an experience not to be forgotten.

White water rafting or river running, as an alternative way of spending your vacation, is being increasingly offered by a number of tour operators and travel agencies, including government tourist offices. Prices are generally reasonable, and will include food, equipment, lifejackets, helmets, an expert guide, and accommodation. Check on what you’re paying for, and whether any additional charges are likely to be levied. It also makes sense to scout around a bit before taking a decision on which agency you’re going to book with.

Most agencies allow anybody- as long as you’re over 14 years of age- to book on river rafting trips. For basic trips, which pass through quieter waters, it isn’t even necessary to know swimming, although those who can’t swim may not be allowed on certain stretches of the river. Expectant mothers and people who suffer from epilepsy or other serious ailments, will usually not be allowed.

When to go for White Water Rafting:

The Himalayan rivers, being the main river rafting routes, are virtually inaccessible during the winters. Some, like the Zanskar, are frozen over, and most of the others are too cold too allow rafting. Getting soaked could lead to a long and perhaps dangerous bout of hypothermia- or worse.

The monsoon brings heavy rain to the lower reaches of the Himalayas, and melting snows in the mountains result in higher waters in all of the rivers. Summers, therefore, though a good time to go river rafting, can be a little unsafe, especially for novices who haven’t travelled on a river in spate. For novices, August and September- when waters are lower and more manageable- are the best months to go river running; veterans can opt for expeditions earlier in the summer. Spring or early summer is also usually suitable for river running.

The Teesta is one of the few rivers where river rafting is confined to the winter months, between October and April.

What to bring for White River Water Rafting:

A love for adventure and a passion for the great outdoors is top priority. More practical things to pack include a good sunscreen, dark glasses, shorts, T-shirts (or other light, quick-dry clothing) and suitable shoes- sneakers or heavy duty rubber sandals may be a good idea. Also pack in a windproof jacket, a light sweater, towels, and a flashlight- and don’t forget the first aid box and the camera!

Essentials:

River rafting in some areas may require special permits from the government. Areas close to India’s international borders, such as Nubra, Sikkim, Lahaul and Spiti may be off-limits to foreigners without a valid permit. Before venturing out with your oar and your life jacket, make sure you’ve got all the necessary permits which are needed. Permits can usually be obtained fairly easily from District Commissioners, District Magistrates or other senior officials. Enquire at the Ministry of Home Affairs in New Delhi to figure out whether you need a permit, and who can give it to you.

Accommodation:

Riverside tent camps exist along all the main routes, especially in Garhwal. These will generally consist of Swiss tents where accommodation is on a shared basis, with separate dry-waste toilet tents. All camps have their own arrangements for dining and entertainment- the latter invariably consisting of bonfires, beach volleyball and singing. Some of the longer runs may include stops en route at riverside villages or other settlements.

In Ladakh, Lahaul, Sikkim and some of the less developed areas, pitching a tent will usually be the only course open for rafters.

Rafting Runs:

There are two main sets of routes along the rivers, graded I to III (for amateurs) and IV to VI, for veterans. The Zanskar and the Indus, both in Ladakh, are graded I - III, while the more southern stretches of the Beas, Chenab, Sutlej and Teesta are graded IV – VI. Briefly,

Grade I: Small, easy waves; mainly flat water

Grade II: Mainly clear passages; some areas of difficulty

Grade III: Difficult passages; narrow in places and with high waves

Grade IV: Very difficult, narrow and requiring precise manoeuvring

Grade V: Extremely difficult. Very fast-flowing waters which can be manoeuvred only by experts

Grade VI: For all practical purposes, unmanageable- even suicidal

The Ganga and its tributaries; the Kali Ganga, the Indus, the Zanskar, the Teesta and the Rangeet are some of the rivers on which river running has been developed. Most of these have good riverside camps, and are well-frequented by organised rafting groups during peak season.

Other than these, there are other rivers, nearly all in northern India, where there are possibilities for river rafting. These include the Sutlej, the Chenab, the Chandrabhaga, the Beas and the Spiti rivers- all of which offer good river running, but have not been explored to a great extent, or (as is the case of the Sutlej and the Chenab) are practically off limits at present because of instability and unrest in the region of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Ganga

The Kali Ganga (Sharda)

The Indus

The Zanskar

The Teesta

The Rangeet

The Ganga

1. Kaudiyala - Shivpuri (Alaknanda):

About 28 km upstream from the town of Rishikesh, on the Alaknanda, is one of India’s best known and most popular- stretches for white water rafting. The stretch between Kaudiyala and Shivpuri has several camps, each catering to river rafting outfits. Most of these operate between October to March, through the winter. The run starts at Kaudiyala and passes through thickly wooded hills; along the way are two of the river’s best rapids- one known as the `wall’ and the other called the `golf course’- which are succeeded by deep, tranquil pools. The river route makes it way past riverside temples, under the Laxman Jhoola. The run finally terminates at the dam beyond Rishikesh.

Rishikesh, which is about 257 km from Delhi, is well connected to most of northern India by road; the nearest railhead is at Hardwar, while the nearest airport is Jolly Grant, at Dehradun. There are regular buses to Rishikesh from Delhi, Hardwar and Dehradun. Once in Rishikesh, you can hire a vehicle to get to the river camp- in most cases, however, the tour operator will make arrangements for transport from Rishikesh to Kaudiyala. Besides the travel agencies who book Kaudiyala-Shivpuri trips, the Garhwal. Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) and UP Tourism also offer river runs along the stretch.

2. Rudraprayag-Rishikesh (Alaknanda):

Situated at the confluence of the Alaknanda and the Mandakini- two of the main tributaries of the Ganga, Rudraprayag is known to many wildlife buffs as the place where the famous Jim Corbett shot a man eating leopard in 1926. Although no longer as thickly wooded as it once was, Rudraprayag is still close enough to the jungles to make it a very charming place- and the starting point of an exhilarating, if strenuous, bit of river running.

Starting a little beyond the main town of Rudraprayag, the river makes its way through a series of rapids, narrow gorges and quieter stretches, passing through the towns of Srinagar and Devprayag (at the junction of the Alaknanda and the Bhagirathi). Further on, the river reaches Kaudiyala, from where the stretch to Shivpuri and on to Rishikesh is a fairly demanding one. The entire expedition takes about four or five days, depending upon the pace.

What is particularly appealing about the Rudraprayag-Rishikesh run is that other than the adventure of river rafting on one of India’s best stretches, it also offers the chance to see the densely forested Himalayan foothills at close quarters. Furthermore, the river passes through the heart of `sacred’ India- with plenty of opportunity to visit old temples. Anyway, river rafting on the Alaknanda can mean loads of dips- intentional and otherwise- in the holy river!

There are regular buses to Rudraprayag from Rishikesh and Hardwar.

3. Tehri-Shivpuri (Bhagirathi/Alaknanda):

The Tehri-Shivpuri run, on the Bhagirathi river, is considered to be one of India’s best runs scenic and heart-stoppingly exhilarating. Beginning at the town of Tehri, the district headquarters of Tehri Garhwal, this run goes down the Bhagirathi river, passing through foaming rapids- mostly grade III or IV- till it reaches Devprayag. At Devprayag, the Bhagirathi merges with the Alaknanda, beyond which the river becomes- in places- more manageable than in the upper reaches. Passing Kaudiyala, the run goes on to Shivpuri, and then to Rishikesh (for more details, see the Rudraprayag-Rishikesh run, above).

Tehri is connected by bus to other major towns in northern India, including Rishikesh, Hardwar and Dehradun.

Other popular stretches for rafting on the Ganga and its tributaries are:

On the Alaknanda:

Kaliasaur to Srinagar (16 km, lower grades)
Srinagar to Bagwan (20 km, lower grades)

On the Bhagirathi:

Matli-Dunda (12 km, a mixture of grades)
Jangla-Jhala (20 km, a mixture of grades)
Harsil-Uttarkashi,Dharasu-Chham(12 km, a mixture of grades)

On the Mandakini:

Chandrapuri-Rudraprayag (26 km, higher grades)

The Kali Ganga (Sharda)

Jauljibi-Tanakpur:

The Kali Ganga’s name is rather misleading- for it has nothing, actually, to do with the Ganga. The Kali Ganga, known in its lower reaches as the Sharda, flows into India from the neighbouring country of Nepal. Hurtling down from the foothills of the Kumaon region, the Kali Ganga meets the Gori river at Jauljibi, where this run starts. A taxing stretch of river running, this route- all of 117 km- passes through some of the fastest and most dangerous rapids along the river. Most of the river is Grade IV – or higher- and should be considered only after you’ve had some experience of river running.

The run down to Tanakpur takes about three days, and if you’ve still not had your fill, you can extend it to the lower reaches of the river, which are easier going.

Jauljibi, which is the start of the run, is connected to major towns in Kumaon by road.

The Indus

Much easier and quieter than the Ganga and its tributaries, the Indus is suitable for Grade II and III trips. The river, which originates in Tibet, flows down through Ladakh, past Leh, and then passes into Pakistan.

1. Upshi-Khaltsi:

The Upshi-Khaltsi run is somewhat long, but not too difficult. Most of the river along this stretch consists of grade I and II rapids, although there are some grade III rapids too. The run starts at Upshi, which lies upriver from Leh, along the road which leads south to Manali. From Upshi, the river makes its way westwards to Khaltsi, along the road to Kargil.

2. Spituk-Saspol:

Spituk, just short of Leh and on the bank of the Indus, is the starting point for an easy and short trip downriver. The route goes up to the village of Saspol, near Alchi, and comprises a run of a few hours. A short and scenic run, the Spituk-Saspol route is relaxed enough to allow you to admire the beauty of the Indus Valley; beyond Saspol, however, the river starts getting a fraction wild, and is recommended only for experts.

Easier runs on the Indus include the run between Hemis and Choglamsar, a three-hour jaunt which goes through quiet, calm waters, and passes through the riverside villages of Stakna, Shey and Thikse, before ending at Choglamsar, just short of Leh city.

Leh, the capital of Ladakh, is connected by air to Delhi, Srinagar, Jammu and Chandigarh. In the summer months, road traffic also links the town to Manali in Himachal Pradesh and to Srinagar, although the latter route is not recommended because of the unrest in the Kashmir Valley. Within Ladakh, buses ply between the main towns and villages, and vehicles can be hired in Leh to get to the more inaccessible areas.

The Zanskar

Born from the merging of the Stod and Tsarap rivers, the Zanskar arises near the border between Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir, and makes its way northward, to meet the Indus at Nimmu. A beautiful stretch of water, the Zanskar isn’t as wild and wicked as its southern sisters, the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi. It does have some grade III and IV rapids, but they’re fewer and more far between.

Among the most exciting runs on the Zanskar is the Padum-Nimmu run, a trip which takes several days and involves having to camp out in the wild. It’s replete with exciting rapids, and is suggested only for those with a fair bit of experience in white water rafting.

Another good run is the Phey – Nimmu route, easier than the Padum-Nimmu one- it’s mostly Grade II or III. The main attraction of the run is that it passes through astoundingly beautiful mountains, many of them with tiny villages and imposing old monasteries nestling among the valleys. The run starts at Phey and ends about 36 km from Leh, at Nimmu. Nimmu is situated at the confluence of Ladakh’s two main rivers- the Indus and the Zanskar.

Zanskar’s administrative centre, Padum, is accessible from Kargil, to which it is connected by road during the summer months. Buses run between the two towns on alternate days between July and October, and vehicles may be hired in Kargil to do the trip.

Note: In both Ladakh as well as Zanskar, public transport and other facilities- including tourist accommodation- are very limited. In addition to this, parts of the area, especially those lying close to India’s international borders, require special permits to be obtained. To overcome all these difficulties, it’s essential to go through a specialised agency which organises river runs. They’ll make all the necessary arrangements, including permits, transport, equipment and accommodation. Many such agencies have their offices in Leh, and some also have offices in other cities in India, such as New Delhi.

The Teesta

The main river in the north-eastern state of Sikkim, the Teesta originates at Cho Lhamu Lake and gushes down the mountains, creating foaming white rapids which are literally tailor-made for kayaking or rafting. Although this river isn’t (as yet) as well- charted or developed as those in Garhwal or Kumaon, it’s swiftly acquiring a reputation as a good stretch for white water rafting. Most of the Teesta is either grade III or IV, so it’s advisable to have some experience of river running before you attempt it.

Probably the shortest run on the Teesta is the run between Makha and Rongpo, a trip of about two and a half hours. Among the longer and more gruelling runs on the river are the stretches between Dikchu and Teesta Bridge; Dikchu and Kali Johra (in West Bengal, a run of almost five days); and between Bordang and Melli. The tributaries of the Teesta, including the Lachung Chu and the Lachen, also make for good river running.

The Rangeet

The Rangeet demarcates the border between the states of West Bengal and Sikkim, and is known primarily for kayaking. Good river running, however, is also possible on the river, especially in the upper reaches of the Rangeet. The stretch between Likship and Teesta Bazaar (where the Rangeet meets the Teesta) is particularly popular, as is the stretch from Naya Bazaar to Teesta Bazaar. The runs between Jorethang and Bhaney Khola; Sikip to Jorethang; and Jorethang to Melli are short stretches where rafting can be done. More accomplished rafters can combine these runs and do a longer trip between Sikip and Melli.

Sikkim’s capital, Gangtok, is connected by road to the rest of India, and there are frequent buses to Gangtok from Darjeeling, Siliguri, Kalimpong and Bagdogra. Bagdogra, near Siliguri, is the nearest airport; it’s about four and a half hours’ drive from Gangtok.

Note that special permits are required by foreigners visiting Sikkim. 15 day permits are issued, both by Indian embassies overseas as well as by Regional Registration Offices, Sikkim Tourism Information centres, and Resident Commissioners of the Government of Sikkim within India.

Further information on river rafting routes, equipment, organising agencies and more can be obtained from the Indian River Runners Association (606, Akashdeep, Barakhamba Road, New Delhi; Tel: 331 3229). Alternatively, you could approach the Tourism Departments of the corresponding states- Jammu and Kashmir (for the Indus and Zanskar); Uttar Pradesh (for the Ganga, its tributaries and the Yamuna); Sikkim (for the Teesta and the Rangeet) or other Tourism Development Corporation offices. The Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) is especially active in organising river running; it holds regular courses too, which can be very useful for first-timers. If you’re heading for very out-of-the-way places, especially in Ladakh, it’s usually best to keep the Tourism Department informed of your itinerary.

Do remember you’re heading for the wild, unspoilt outdoors; keep them that way. Respect the beauty of the land, and don’t do anything that’s likely to harm the environment. Don’t leave a trail of litter and waste behind you; carry your own fuel, food and supplies, and don’t use detergents or other chemicals which could wash into the river and pollute it.

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