River Rafting

A range of rafting options is available on the Indus and its major tributaries. The best stretch for professionally guided runs in white water is on the Indus between Spituk and Saspol. Beyond Saspol, the river becomes difficult and running it requires technically skilled participants and careful organisation. Upward of Spituk, the Indus has the easiest stretch up to Karu, ideal for basic training and for day-return “scenic floating” for amateurs. In recent years, running the Indus has become an attractive alternative to trekking and features on the itinerary of most visitors. Several agencies in Leh offer attractive rafting packages. Ask for details at the Tourist Office at Leh.They will also be able to provide some rafts on hire. The most difficult but exciting option for river rafting is on the Zanskar river along its spectacular course through the gorge in the Zanskar mountain, between Padum and Nimo. This is suitable only for well-organised white-water expeditions, prepared for several days of river running 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 arrangements for rescue coverage is pre-requisite for embarking upon a white-water expedition on a river like the Zanskar.