Rafting in India

What it is

Run graded rapids in a guided inflatable raft. India has some of the best commercial rafting in Asia, from an easy splash to serious expedition water.

When to go

Rishikesh runs roughly September to June and closes for the monsoon. Kolad is the opposite: the dam release makes June to September its main season. Ladakh is summer only, June to September.

First time?

No experience needed on grade II to III stretches: guides steer, you paddle when told, and everyone wears helmets and life jackets. Rapids above grade III have age and fitness minimums.

Where to do it

• Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

  the classic Ganga stretch, grade II to IV

• Kolad, Maharashtra

  dam-released Kundalika river, a monsoon favourite near Mumbai and Pune

• Teesta, Sikkim and Darjeeling

  long scenic stretches in the eastern Himalaya

• Zanskar, Ladakh

  high-altitude gorge rafting for the committed