Introduction
North India’s great Himalayas, with their towering mountains and bumbling rivers, provide a wide range of adventurous activities to participate in. Himachal Pradesh and its mini hamlets are no different. Various adventure activities are available at the top tourist places in Himachal Pradesh, such as trekking, mountaineering, rock climbing, and bungee jumping. But it is, indeed, the river rafting in Himachal that attracts the maximum crowd.
In a nutshell, rafting is an activity in a colourful inflatable raft that spans the thunderous waters of a river. There aren’t enough words to explain the joy of living such an adventure. It is an experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Himachal Pradesh has several places rich in natural beauty and provides a diverse range of rivers for rafting. Five such enticing hill towns and rivers associated with them for rafting are listed below.
Top 5 Places for River Rafting in Himachal Pradesh
1. Beas River – Manali
River rafting is one of the most thrilling and heart-pounding activities in Manali’s stunning region. It is an ideal spot for beginners and a fantastic opportunity for those seeking daring escapades. The Beas River, which offers thrilling rapids of Grades 1, 2, and 3, is where river rafting is done in Manali. The breathtaking scenery on either side of the river makes travellers wonder as they float in the Beas River’s bubbling waves.
- Cost for River Rafting
In Manali, river rafting costs INR 1585. With this package, you will indulge in a 7 KM river rafting stretch on the Beas River and take in the flowing water waves.
2. Satluj River – Shimla
Rafting enthusiasts frequently travel to Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, to raft on the Satluj River. Shimla’s river rafting is undoubtedly one of the best and an enthralling experience. This level-3 rafting adventure in Shimla’s tranquil and beautiful natural setting is unique. The river passes close to Tattapani, which is home to Himachal’s sulphur springs. Here, stretches of 9 km, 12 km, and 20 km are available.
- Cost for River Rafting
The cost of river rafting in Shimla is 1050 INR per person. Before participating in a river rafting activity in Shimla, you must have prior expertise.
3. Saal and Ravi Rivers – Dalhousie
Himachal Pradesh is well known for its river rafting activities, and Dalhousie, like the other hill cities in the region, can also claim thrilling river rafting thanks to its stunning scenery. This is one of the numerous well-known adventure sports in Dalhousie that takes place on the Saal and Ravi rivers. The entire sport is overseen and conducted under the direction of qualified instructors. Enjoy the tranquilly and warmth of the rivers that run around hills while you partake in this water activity.
As you explore the charming hill town of Dalhousie, be sure to take in everything it offers. Make sure to reserve the most luxurious homestay in the town, Elgin Hall, which offers a boutique property that is family-friendly and offers a tea lounge, a library, a kids’ play area, a game room, as well as the luxury of outdoor activities. This will make the entire trip more comfortable and hassle-free.
- Cost for River Rafting
Activity costs for participating in river rafting will cost around INR 1000-1500/person.
4. Parvati River – Kasol
The junction of the Beas and Parvati River is one of Kasol’s most well-known attractions. People travel here from all around to take in the breathtaking landscape and unwind in the tranquil surroundings of this mountain hamlet. All the adventure seekers flock over to keep ahead of the river rafting. It is a unique and exhilarating rafting adventure that can be done at the intersection of the Beas and Parvati rivers in Kasol, with the area’s beautiful splendour that adds to the experience’s appeal.
- Cost for River Rafting
The cost of rafting ranges from INR 1800 to INR 2500 and includes transportation to and from the camp or the place of pickup, as well as the cost of life jackets and basic instruction.
5. Chamba River – Mcleodganj, Dharamshala
The Chamba River in Dharamshala is a popular tourism destination in addition to the town’s stunning greenery. In addition to its outstanding historical architecture, this city is well-known for its rafting activity and has become a dream for any adventure seeker in Chamba.
As Grade 2 and Grade 3 river rafting are only available in Dharamshala, they may not be the best options for complete beginners. Therefore, to participate in the rafting activity in the Chamba River, one must have prior knowledge and experience in the same.
- Cost for River Rafting
The usual cost of this activity often ranges from 850 to 2000 INR for each individual. The price may change as well, based on the services you choose.
Best Seasons to Experience River Rafting in Himachal Pradesh
In Himachal Pradesh, April to June and September to November are the ideal times to go river rafting. For those who enjoy rafting, these seasons offer mild weather and rapids that range in severity from moderate to vigorous. However, depending on the amount of rain, river conditions might fluctuate, so it’s always a good idea to check with local rafting operators before making travel plans.
Essential Tips for River Rafting In Himachal Pradesh
- Wear the proper attire and equipment, including a life jacket, helmet, and clothing that is appropriate for the weather and the water’s temperature.
- Make sure to follow your rafting guide’s directions because they will have the experience and knowledge to assure your safety.
- The climate in Himachal Pradesh is unpredictable, so pack extra layers of clothing.
- When rafting, make sure to minimise your impact on the environment by adhering to the “Leave No Trace” principles.
- Rafting may be a challenging activity, so keep a happy and cooperative outlook to make sure that everyone has a fun and safe time.
Read More: 7 Hidden Places In Dalhousie Very Less People Know
The Bottom Line
You must have been captivated by the blog. So, are you ready for the breathtaking experience of Himachal’s rafting? If so, then pack your stuff and go rafting amid the majestic mountains and sparkling rapids, and enjoy this thrilling activity with your buddies.