The rivers in the upper Himalayas are among the best in the world for rafting sports. White water rafting or river running is being increasingly offered by a number of tour operators and travel agencies, and the package will include food, equipment, accommodation and an expert guide. Most agencies allow anybody over the age of 14 to book on river rafting trips, but the less experienced may not be allowed on certain stretches of the river. You would require permits or licenses for rafting in the restricted areas close to India's international borders.
The Himalayan rivers are virtually inaccessible during the winters, so the best time to go river rafting in these areas is in summer (May to November). The monsoon and melting snow in the mountains result in higher waters in the rivers during spring and early summer, so the best months to go river rafting for the less experienced are August and September when waters are lower and more manageable. In other places of India you can go river rafting all year.
The Ganges River and its tributaries: the Kali Ganges, the Indus, the Teesta and the Rangeet are some of the rivers on which river running has been developed. Most of these have good riverside camps, and are well frequented by organised rafting groups during peak season. Other rivers in north India, where there are possibilities for river rafting includes: the Sutlej, the Chenap, the Chandrabhaga, the Beas, and the Spiti rivers. In the northeast of India, the Rangeet river is known primarily for Kayaking, however good and challenging river rafting is also possible, especially in the upper reaches of the Rangeet.
If you are into beach holidays, and heading towards Goa, Dandeli at the northern tip of Karnataka is one of the best centers for watersports, especially river rafting. The Kali River flows through the area, which is situated around 600 meters (1,800 feet) above sea level and surrounded by thick tropical forests. The Kali River offers a great opportunity to paddle through numerous exciting technical class 3 rapids. The Kali River is also know as a place for kayaking and canoeing in beautiful surroundings with a flourishing bird life and exotic animals to be seen from the boats. White water rafting is also done on the Kundalika River in the Sahayadris, in Maharashtra, and on certain stretches of the Cauvery River at Bheemeshwari and the Coorg near Dubare.
