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The Ganges is a river of immense religious and spiritual significance to Hindus, running through many of India’s most iconic cities and landmarks. But it is also one of the most popular destinations for adventure seekers, and its rapids make it the perfect place to go river rafting. The Ganges’ rafting season returns every year around February with the start of the monsoon season, bringing with it exciting new opportunities to explore its wild and untamed waters.
Exhilarating Ganges Rafting
River rafting on the Ganges is an experience like no other. It’s an exhilarating and thrilling way to explore the river and its many rapids, with the added benefit of a stunning backdrop of the Himalayan mountains. The rapids vary in intensity and difficulty, so there’s something for everyone from the most experienced rafters to complete newcomers. But even the most experienced rafters need to stay alert as the rapids can change quickly with the weather and water levels.
Rafting trips usually go from one of the many cities or villages along the Ganges, down to the Bay of Bengal. The most popular spot is Rishikesh, located in the foothills of the Himalayas and considered one of the holiest cities in India. Here, rafters can find some of the most challenging rapids of the Ganges, as well as some of the most beautiful scenery.
The Ganges is also home to some of the most abundant wildlife in India, so rafters can expect to see some incredible animals and plants along the way. Some of the animals that can be seen include langur monkeys, crocodiles, otters, gharials, wild boars, and many species of birds.
Exploring Rishikesh’s Rapids
Rafting on the Ganges is particularly popular in Rishikesh, where rafters can explore the rapids of the Holy River. Rishikesh is home to some of the most challenging rapids in India, ranging from Grade 2-4, with some of the toughest rapids reaching a Grade 5. The rapids here are known for their powerful currents and sudden drops, so they can be quite intimidating.
Rafting trips usually start at Shivpuri, a little village near Rishikesh. From here, rafters can venture down the Ganges, tackling the rapids and making stops along the way to explore the surrounding area. The trip usually ends at the small town of Laxmanjhula, where rafters can rest and enjoy some traditional Indian food before heading back to Shivpuri.
Adventuring in the River of Life
The Ganges is often referred to as the "River of Life" due to the spiritual significance it holds for Hindus. But it’s also a great place for adventurers to explore and have a thrilling time. Rafting trips on the Ganges offer a unique way to experience India, its nature and its culture, at the same time.
The Ganges rafting season is a great time for rafters to explore the rapids and enjoy the stunning scenery of the river and its banks. With the return of the monsoon season, the Ganges is sure to offer some of the most exciting adventures of the year. So if you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled thrill, the Ganges is the perfect place to go.