Adventure in Ladakh
River Rafting in Ladakh
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
funning 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 running is on the Zanskar
along its spectacular course through the gorge in the Zanskar mountins,
between Padum and Nimo. This is suitable only for well organized white-water
expedition, 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 an essential pre-requisite
for embarking upon a white -water expedition on river like the Zanskar.
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