North India’s Great Himalayas are well known for the abundance of bumbling mountains and valleys full of flowers and a plethora of adventure activities.
Himachal Pradesh and its tiny hamlets are no exceptions to that. Trekking, mountaineering, rock climbing, and bungee jumping are available to serve the tourists at a few of Himachal Pradesh’s most famous tourist spots.
But it is whitewater rafting that has stayed on top of the popular charts. “Rafting” is a rather exhilarating sport in which you float on a brightly painted inflatable raft, struggling to steam down the thunderous waters of the mighty rivers.
Such an experience can never be put into words; it is a feeling to hold in your memory forever. Various parts of Himachal Pradesh have tremendous natural beauty that offer a wide range of rivers where rafting is conducted.
Here is a list of 10 best river rafting spots in Himachal Pradesh.
Top 10 Places for River Rafting in Himachal Pradesh
Manali
River rafting is one of the most thrilling adventure sport in the scenic area of Manali. It is an absolutely safe spot for novices. Rafting on the Beas River is done on some really wild rapids of levels 1 to 3.
Here, you can enjoy some exciting rushes downstream. One wonders at the majestic countryside that surrounds the river while floating in the frothy waters of the Beas River.
River rafting costs about INR 1600 in Manali. The package consists of a wonderful 7 km river rafting stretch downstream along the Beas River.
2. Shimla
The Satluj River rafting is popular amongst many rafting enthusiasts who travel to Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. River Rafting at Shimla is undoubtedly one of the best experiences that will enthrall you.
This level-3 rafting is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in Shimla. It flows near Tattapani, which is famous in Himachal Pradesh for its sulphur springs, offering rafting stretches of 9 km, 12 km, and 20 km.
Tattapani
Tattapani is a small village on the right bank of river Sutlej In Mandi District, Himachal Pradesh. In the local language Tatta means hot, and Pani means water. The place is famous for its hot water springs of sulfur.
You can start white river rafting from the village of Harloti to Chaba. You can cover a length of 12km by paying only Rs.1200/- per person.
The instructors here are obsessed with safety, and you will be provided with life jackets and helmets. All your valuables, mobiles and cameras will be sealed in a waterproof bag.
After all the necessary pre-checks and clearing hurdles, it will take around 2 hours to raft through deep gorges. You will be slashing your way through an extremely beautiful and crystal-clear Sutlej river.
Videos and photos can be taken via the camera placed on the rafter’s head.
Kasol
The junction of the Beas and Parvati Rivers was one of the most popular places of interest in Kasol. People from all over come here to get in touch with nature and enjoy the laid-back attitude of this mountain hamlet.
All the adventure seekers flock over to enjoy river rafting. River rafting is a distinct and enthralling rafting adventure that can be done at the confluence of Beas and Parvati in Kasol. The region’s charm enhances the experience even more.
Mcleodganj, Dharamshala
The Chamba River is a famous tourist destination. In addition to its remarkable historical architecture, and stunning greenery, this city is well-known for its rafting activities. It has become a dream destination for any adventurous soul in Chamba.
Grade 2 and Grade 3 river rafting are only accessible in Dharamshala, thus they may not be the most suitable options for total beginners.
To participate in the rafting activity on the Chamba River, one must have prior knowledge and experience in the area. So you will not actually allowed to traverse the waters on your own.
Kullu
The river rafting along Kullu’s Beas River is a fun experience. The transparent waters of this river and its moderate turbulence make this place an excellent spot to go for stream rafting.
The place is great to witness the all-around view and culture of Kullu. The rafting season in Kullu begins in April and ends by June, just before the monsoon hits.
There are also grade 4 and grade 5 river rafting experiences available at this place. This is therefore an absolute adventure hub for many thrill-seekers who love facing a challenge against nature and conquering it.
Auli
River rafting at Auli on the Alaknanda River is a spiritual experience. You will be captivated by Auli’s snow-capped mountains. The Alaknanda is one of the major tributaries of the Ganga. It runs through Auli, lending to it a beautiful landscape.
Auli has become one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the world. Rafting in Auli is allowed only for six months, from October to March.
Lahaul Spiti
With its rugged beauty, Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh offers an exhilarating experience for white-water rafting. Towering mountains surround the Spiti River, and the dramatic landscape provides a great setting for adventure seekers.
Typical rafting stretches between Rangrik and Sichling offer spectacular rapids weaving through an equally barren yet beautiful landscape.
The average rafting activity covers a distance of 180 km. The challenge posed by the cold, glacial waters makes this an awesome activity for any thrill seeker wanting to experience a close connection with nature.
In Spiti, the white-water rafting activity can preferably be enjoyed in the summer months when river flow is ideal.
Dalhousie
River rafting is famous in Himachal Pradesh and in Dalhousie, it is very exciting. That is primarily because of the beautiful backdrop it has. Dalhousie offers amazing white-water rafting in the Saal and Ravi rivers.
The entire sport is well governed and organized by capable instructors. Relish the tranquility and warmth of the rivers singing in harmony amidst the hills while partaking in this water sport.
Chamba
The government of Himachal Pradesh is also working on the possible introduction of river rafting in Chamba now. River rafting here would be such an experience along with the mighty Ravi and Saal rivers flowing through this area.
The monsoon months of June to October are generally regarded as the perfect time for river rafting in Chamba.
The State Government and the tourism department are now gearing up to popularize river rafting as a sport by holding a months-long river rafting carnival on the selected stretches of Ravi in that region.
The carnival will be divided into Sprint, Slalom, and marathon rafting.
What Is The Best Season to Experience River Rafting in Himachal Pradesh?
April to June and September to November are the best times for river rafting in Himachal Pradesh. Generally, in these seasons, the weather is mild and the rapids vary between moderate and vigorous.
Yet, weather substantially influences river conditions, so check with local rafting operators before making plans.
What Are The Important Tips for River Rafting In Himachal Pradesh?
- Wear the appropriate dresses or clothing, such as a life jacket and a helmet, depending on the weather.
- Do what your rafting guide tells you, as he will be skilled and experienced to ensure your good self.
- The climate is very unpredictable in Himachal Pradesh, so pack the rafts in layers.
- Check your pastime manners with “Leave No Trace” standards on-going rafting.
- Rafting can be a daunting activity, hence put up a pleasant, helpful outlook outside to make sure it becomes fun and safe for all.
The Bottom Line
So, are you ready for the amazing experience of Himalayan rafting? If so, pack your bags and go rafting among the majestic mountains and glittering rapids with your friends.
Also read: 15 Best Adventure Activities to Do in Manali
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