Ladakh is indeed a heaven on earth, blessed with stunning natural beauty. The scenery is spectacular, but that’s not all there is to this area. This picturesque location is perfect for thrill-seekers, thanks to its abundance of exciting experiences and outdoor activities. River rafting in Ladakh is one of these activities, attracting visitors from all over the world. Do you want to experience the pinnacle of adventure treatment? Don’t fret, stay with us at our heritage hotel in Ladakh and enjoy all there is that Ladakh can offer. We have gathered all you need to know to organise a rafting trip in Ladakh and enjoy the region’s stunning scenery, ancient ruins, and prestigious indo-Indo-Tibetan culture.
Best Time For River Rafting In Ladakh
Ladakh is located on the course of the Indus River, which travels straight across the region from north to south. The river freezes over in the winter, but from June through August it flows at tremendous speed after melting from the ice. The majority of the rapids here are class I and II, but there are a few spots where you may experience class III+ and dangerous class V+ rapids as well. On the Indus River, popular rafting routes include:
River Rafting On the Indus River
From northwest to southeast, the Indus River makes a direct path across Ladakh. This river’s source is Tibet, and while it freezes over in the winter, it speeds along at great distances between June and August. Although class I and II rapids make up the bulk of the waterway, class III and high-class V rapids can be found in a few spots. The following sections of the Indus River are well-known for whitewater rafting:
- Phey – Nimo Route
This Phey – Nimo rafting route begins in the village of Phey (12 kilometres from Leh) and concludes at the Indus-Zanskar border (36km from Leh). This course includes some moderately difficult rapids (grades II and III). While rafting the Phey – Nimo route, you may take in the picturesque hamlets, ancient monasteries, and breathtaking mountains.
- Upshi – Kharu Route
When compared to the Phey-Nimo route, the Upshi – Kharu route is very easy, especially for novice rafters. This route includes Class I and II rapids. Rafting on the Upshi – Kharu route begins in Upshi, 90 km southeast of Leh, and continues to Kharu, in the southern section of Manali.
- Phey – Saspol Route
Phey is located 8 kilometres south of Leh, and the rafting trip on the Phey – Saspol route begins there and ends at Saspol on the Leh-Srinagar Highway. Along with the thrill of the ride, you can take in the stunning scenery of the landscapes dotted along the Indus River.
- Kharu – Spituk Route
Kharu – Spituk is the name of a rafting route that begins 45 kilometres southeast of Leh and ends in Spituk. Kharu – Spituk is a great place to try rafting for the first time. Though difficult, even inexperienced rafters can handle the rapids.
- Saspol – Khaltsey Route
The Saspol – Khaltsey route is the pinnacle of river rafting difficulty and will provide you with an experience you won’t soon forget. It is suitable for novice and expert rafters alike, and during the summer months, in particular, it will take you along some of Ladakh’s most breathtaking routes.
River Rafting On Zanskar River
For a thrilling rafting experience, head to Ladakh, where the Zanskar River runs north. Rafting the wild waters of the Zanskar River is an adventure like no other. Rafting down this river is the most thrilling and challenging activity available in all of Ladakh. The Zanskar River offers two different rafting trips.
The first is the well-known passage from Chilling to Nimmu, which features Class IV+ rapids. Rafting is more exciting thanks to the wild waves. The scenic Zanskar valley is another highlight of any rafting adventure.
This valley is a beautiful destination in the far east of Jammu and Kashmir. The Zanskar Mountains are all that stand between this valley and Ladakh. In addition to rafting, visitors to Zanskar Valley can explore the region’s neighbouring settlements.
Featured image credits: earthhimalayanholidays.com
