RAFTING Location : Saspol and Zanskar in Ladakh Rafting Routes : River Indus and River Zanskar and Multi Polar Tributaries Major Attractions : The Beautiful Gorges and the Rapids Listed as : Most Thrilling and Adventrous Sport

Rafting In The River

Adventure Skiing

Trekking Aerosports

Golfing

Kashmir is already illustrious for its majestic and picturesque lakes and rivers. River rafting is a recent introduction in the Kashmir Valley. The rafting expedition can last from several hours or can stretch into days. River Indus and river Zanskar are few water stretches that will provoke you to take part in this sport. River rafting is capable of taking you to the extreme core areas, which are not quiet possible through the land routes. Though Jammu and Kashmir region have ample rafting options, but they do not match up to the rafting regions of Ladakh, especially Zanskar.

Oar frame raft is the equipment used for rafting. Navigated by a professional using two large oars, it can accommodate eight people to its maximum. Incisive coordination among rafters, is required to prevent the raft from getting smashed by the rocks or the waves. The peak time for river rafting is from August to September, because most of the rivers freeze during the winters. However, if you are an experienced professional, then the best time to enjoy rafting is during summers. There are many private agencies that provide training sessions, and also provide precautionary tips, before you actually indulge in this sport. One can become a skilled rafter, in just a few hours of the training. Government's permission may be required for rafting in some areas.

Rafting Destinations

Ladakh Siachen Glacier

Zanskar

Kargil

River Lidder, near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir, is the ideal place for rafting. Due to the fact, that the slopes in this river is not very steep, it is ideal for amateurs. Here the river diverts into two stretches, which is idealistic for river rafting. River Indus flowing between Spituk and Saspol, are the ideal destinations for the inexperienced, while beyond Saspol, the river gets spurting and this area requires technically sound rafters. Upshi-Khaltsi, is an important run in the Indus.

The real ecstasy lies in rafting in river Zanskar, in Ladakh, which is considered to be a very ferocious river. Initially this river will appear very calm, and the pre conceived belief seems to be a little exaggeration, but with the course of time, encompassing the giant gorges, will reveal its true vehemence. This river course is strictly suitable for only the experienced and professional rafters. The Padum-Nimmu run is the most thrilling run on the Zanskar. The another famous run is the Phey – Nimmu route, which is crosses astonishing mountains.

A Piece of Advice

It is important that you wear a jacket before embarking upon this expedition, because the water of these rives are bone chilling even during summers. Carry extra clothings and avoid cotton clothes. Polyester should be encouraged as it dries quickly. Make sure you carry a first aid box. This is an extremely challenging sport an should keep account of the warning signs and preventive measures. Make sure you have satisfactory rescue measure, before you begin this excursion.