Rafting
On The River Indus
While water levels are high, between the end of June and late August,
Leh's more entrepreneurial travel agents operate rafting trips on the
river Indus. The scene is still in its infancy, and the routes tame by
comparison with Nepal's, but floating downstream in a rugged and
beautiful landscape.
The Two River Stretches
Two different stretches of the river are used: from Spitok to the
Indus Zanskar confluence at Nimmu, and from Nimmu to the ancient
temple complex at Alchi. Experienced rafters may also want to try the
more challenging route between Alchi and Khalsi, which takes in the
kilometre long series of rapids at Nurla.
Several agents around Fort Road offer white water rafting on the
Indus, but all are acting as agents for Delhi based operators who
bring the equipment up during the season. Tickets should be booked at
least a day in advance, preferably through the operators themselves.
Rafting Centres
The three best-established and most reliable companies in Leh are:
· Ri Mo Rafting, who work from the Hotel Kang La Chen near The Ecology
Centre; highland adventures, on the first floor of the Hotel Ibex
Complex.
· Indus Himalaya, opposite the Hotel Yak Tail on Fort Road.
Note: Make sure while booking that the price includes transport
to and from the river, rental of life vests and helmets, and meals,
and that the raft has a waterproof strong box for valuable.
River Rafting in
Ladakh
River
rafting in Ladakh is quite unlike anywhere else in the world. It
provides the best opportunity to enjoy and experience the natural
beauty of the spectacular landscape with deep gorges, towering
snow-capped peaks, hilltop monasteries, hillside villages, and
glimpses of the unique wildlife. Ladakh offers a range of rafting
options on the Indus and its major tributaries. The best stretch for
professionally guided runs in white water is on the Indus
between Spituk and Nimu or Saspol, which rates 2
to 3 in the international river grading scale of 1 to 6.
Upstream of Spituk, the Indus has the easiest stretch up to Karu,
which is ideal for basic training or "scenic floating".
In recent years, running the Indus has become an attractive option
to complement with sightseeing, and features on the itinerary of most
visitors. Several travel agencies offer all-inclusive rafting
packages. Ask for details at the Tourist Office at Leh.
The most
difficult but exciting rafting option is available on the Zanskar
River, along its spectacular course through a gorge in the Zanskar
Mountains, between Padum and Nimu. This is suitable only
for well-organized white-water expeditions, prepared for about a week
of rafting and camping in absolute wilderness. Participants are
required to be trained rafters themselves while the arrangements
should be assigned to a dependable professional agency. Adequate
arrangement for rescue back-up is an essential prerequisite for
embarking upon this white-water expedition.
