White Water Rafting

White Water Rafting usually refers to rafting that happens at the foot- hills of a mountain range when a river falls southwards through steep gorges and bursts into silvery rapids that serve as the perfect backdrop for some exciting water adventure. In my opinion, the best time for river rafting in Northern India is from September to November or from March to April and there is enough water in the upper reaches of the river to enjoy rafting.

White water rafting is a popular sport and with the entry of organized players; tourists have gained immensely as they no longer need to scout for food, equipments, life jackets, helmets, accommodation and the help of an expert guide at nominal costs. Stiff competition in this sector has kept the costs down and averted the possibility of monopoly by any company in this sector.

Young children below the age of 14 are forbidden from such tours and some tours, which are conducted on dangerous stretches of a river, require tourists to know swimming before they are admitted for such tours. Pregnant women and those who suffer from serious ailments like high blood pressure, epilepsy are not allowed for white water rafting tours as this sport can be very risky for their lives.

The pleasure associated with this sport far outweighs the risks associated with it and those who have enjoyed white water rafting admit that the entertainment and enjoyment far exceeds the expenditure incurred. The adrenalin rush, which one gets by maneuvering your boat through gushing rapids, is simply exhilarating. The thrill of meandering through overflowing rapids that hit your face with unceasing regularity is an experience that you will cherish for the rest of your life.

White water rafting also serves as an efficient stress buster and a welcome break from the monotony of every day life. Such an invigorating experience helps tourists to de-stress and return to their homes with renewed vigor and strength. While embarking on any white water rafting trip tourists should carry with themselves sunglasses, sunscreen lotions, shorts, T-shirts, sneakers etc. Rest of the equipment like life jackets is usually provided by the tour operator, as it is mandatory by law.

It would be a great idea if you can obtain some accommodation in one of the riverside camps. Unlike city hotels these camps may be short on amenities but they provide a once –in-a-lifetime experience of life in a jungle. City bred tourists rarely get such an experience and if you are one of those lucky ones to get such an opportunity then you should grab it with both hands.