River Rafting In Rishikesh; A thrilling Guide For The Adventure Seekers

Tucked away in the foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh is a small town that is well known for its serene views and of course the thrilling and adrenaline-pumping river rafting experiences. The holy Ganges offer a different aspect of the trill blended with its purity that is just a haven for enthusiasts. With every splash, the Ganges brings you another level of excitement. But before we go any deeper into the Ganges, let’s take a look at a few measures that are essential and will help while you lay out the plan for rafting trips in Rishikesh.   

The typical season for rafting in Rishikesh is post-monsoon but during December and January, the chilled weather makes your experience less fun. So the best time to plan your trip is from September to November and February to June, it’s the time when the weather is pleasant. 

River Rapids:

Rapids are the fast-flowing and turbulent sections of the river. The Ganges run up to a length of nearly 2.5km. consists of rapids that are classified into 5 different categories. The first 3 rapids are the most common and people who are not good swimmers are suitable for the first 3 rapids but not for the last 2. 

Grade I Rapids: These rapids are the easiest to deal with and have mild water currents and a minimal amount of risk associated.  

Grade II Rapids: The grade ll rapids are where the rocks and other obstacles are clearly separated so the rafters can have a clear way.

Grade III Rapids: This grade here now requires professional guidance and is slightly more difficult than the first two. 

Grade IV Rapids: This grade now is known for the thrill that it has to offer and these rapid can be tricky while the waves use all their power to capsize the rafts. 

Grade V Rapids: This is the last of the rapids in Rishikesh and can be quite hazardous. Only the experienced experts can get their way through this without toppling. 

Fortunately, Rishikesh does not have any further rapids that are considered to be extremely tricky and dangerous even for the experienced. 

Rafting Options:

Rishikesh has a variety of options to offer that are suitable for all ages and levels of experience. Let’s see what all options they have-

1. Brahmapuri to Rishikesh 

This stretch is mild in nature and is fitted for those who have issues facing water adventure sports. It takes about one and a half hours to complete this trail and is about 9km. long. The key rapids are body surfing, sweet sixteen, Hilton & terminator, and Double Trouble. It’s the best option for beginners to get an experience of white water rafting without facing a lot of thrills. 

2. Shivpuri to Rishikesh 

This stretch is 16km. from Shivpuri to Rishikesh and has an intermediate level of difficulty that makes is fit for adventurous rafters this takes about 3.5 hours to complete including the rapids ll and lll like a roller coaster, return to sender and golf course. This offers a perfect blend of fun and thrill as it’s not overly challenging and can be enjoyed fairly. 

3. Marine Drive to Rishikesh

Just like the Shivpuri stretch, this is also an intermediate level of difficulty. This offers 14 rapids of the grade III that follow up on each other making it exhilarating. After the rapids, there is a long stretch of relatively calm rafting that allows you give relax and enjoy. The key rapids include the black money, crossfire and three blind mice, this stretch is 24km. long and takes about 4.5 hours to complete. 

4. Kaudiyala to Rishikesh 

This is strictly for the experts and experienced as it offers grueling and demanding adventure. The wall of rapids on this route is one of the most challenging and breathtaking rapids around the globe. This is 34 km. long and takes about 8 hours to complete. This stretch tests your strength and determination and not to forget, your rafting skills. The major rapids here are the wall and Daniel’s dip, which features grade ll, lV and V. 

At last, we can conclude by saying that river rafting is a thrilling and adventurous sport that caters to all levels of rafters. With all the beautiful scenery and the exciting challenges, it no doubt that Rishikesh has become the hub of all adventure seekers. So it doesn’t matter if you are a beginner or an expert, this place is just right for you. It offers you the opportunity to make memories that will stay with for a lifetime. 

Know The Jungle; Exploring The Zones Of The Jim Corbett National Park

All nature enthusiasts out there, get ready to experience nature like never before! If you’re craving some excitement and adventure in life, Jim Corbett National Park is a destination that is just the one for you. Popular for being one of the most acknowledged wildlife habitats, it offers you the chance to observe and live as close to nature as possible. So whether it’s the tigers that fascinate you or the elephants that attract you, this sanctuary holds a lot of natural gems that are waiting to be discovered.  

Tucked in the soothing lands of Uttarakhand, Jim Corbett National Park has a lot to offer when it comes to the natural beauty and the adventurous safaris. What makes it stand out is the numerous safari zones and locations that unveil the unknown about the jungle. 

In the upcoming sections, we will be diving into the secrets of the Dhikala zone, the adventures of the Bijrani zone, the beauty of Jhirna zone, the splendours of the Durga zone, the excitement of the Sonanandi zone and many more. These zones are known to be the best encounter points with tigers, leopards, birds, etc. 

Whether you are a pro or just a beginner in the world of adventures, joining us on Corbett’s safari zones will prove to be one of the best decisions of your life. So get ready to make some lifetime memories, it’s time to explore the unveiled secrets of the jungle.  

Bijrani Safari Zone 

The Bijrani zone in the Jim Corbett National Park offers a beautiful and captivating experience. With the lush green trees around, you will feel as if you are in the very heart of nature where the air talks with the wildlife. As you pass through the trail, you’ll be thrilled throughout as you may spot tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, monkeys or even birds that’ll fill you with awe. The gentle whispers of the green leaves blended with the humming of the birds will provide you with the best soothing music to your ears and mind. It’s a gorgeous yet exhilarating journey that allows you to make a connection with the wild. 

Dhela Safari Zone

This zone is also known as a paradise for all wildlife enthusiasts. It’s not just renowned but is also a hot spot for encountering wild cats so close that it’s just like a dream come true for thrill seekers. 

And it doesn’t end here, Dhela is a diverse ecology that teems with the wildlife. Apart from tigers and leopards, you will also spot elephants, deer, and maybe rhinos. To catch these wild creatures when they’re most active, visit the park in around June to November. It’s a simple yet exciting adventure that promises to provide you with the most unforgettable memories from the heart of nature.  

Dhikala safari zone

This one is perfect to be described as the gem in Jim Corbett National Park’s crown. The area spreads across 310 sq. km. and it’s a realm where the majestic natural reign invites you to retrieve all your senses at the hands of nature.

Here, in the middle of this beautiful landscape, you are prone to discover the rare spectacle of tigers, elephants, leopards and other predators. The best time to visit is in the months between November and April. 

You have a plethora of options to choose your adventures, from exploring the jungle by walking or even through the extravagant jungle safaris or even you could and enjoy the view from an elephant’s back. Monsoon is just not a good idea to pay a visit here (July-September) due to flooding so plan your trip wisely to take back most of it. 

Durga Devi Safari Zone

This place is just the perfect delight haven for all nature lovers. As you wander through the trails, the possibility of encountering wild cats and other animals is genuinely thrilling. 

The soothing sounds of the birds create a harmonious background and every step on the trail draws you deeper into the heart of the wilderness. Participating in activities like hiking, bird watching, trekking etc. will enable you to find your true self with a profound connection with nature. It’ll give you an experience that’ll not be possible to be described in words but will surely leave a huge impact in your heart. 

Jhirna Safari Zone

Jhirna Safari Zone offers a genuine heart-touching experience and is one for all nature enthusiasts. You will always be thrilled to know that at any moment you could spot a tiger a leopard or even an elephant. The engine sound of the jeep makes it more anticipating and curiosity struck as the leaves whispers always indicate an unexpected encounter. It’s an original sense of adventure that leaves you feeling grateful for the beautiful memories that you’ve made in the animal kingdom. 

Sitabani Zone

Sitabani zone is not just one of the other zones in the Corbett but it’s the profound encounter with nature’s finest. Here, the wildlife roams freely painting a vivid picture of the wilderness.

In the core of Sitabanizone, the sky is filled with beautiful species of birds which makes it a paradise for the birdwatchers. From the vibrant Red Junglefowl to the decent Grey-headed Fish Eagle, this zone has a lot to offer when it comes to an avian display.

There’s a lot one can do here like trekking and visiting the ancient Sutabani Temple, blending culture and nature together perfectly. It’s an escape that your heart will always thank you for. 

Sonanadi Safari Zone

This is a place where the nature actually comes to life. The animals move freely around and the symphony of birdsong captivates your journey while encountering amphibians and reptiles add to the trill of the journey. The best time to visit is between November and June when you are offered safari adventures, immersive nature walks and whatnot. It’s a tapestry of life and an unforgettable odyssey into the wilderness.  

What to do around Kosi River In Jim Corbett?

When we hear the name ‘Jim Corbett National Park’ the echoes of water flowing, roars of tigers and lush green forests cross our minds. Among its numerous natural wonders, the Kosi River is seen as the hidden gem in this wilderness. Situated in the village of Ramnagar, this Himalayan river, popularly known as ‘Kosila’ among the locals, is of length 168 meters and serves as a lifeline for the farmlands of Kumaon village. But not that, this river provides sustenance to all the wild lives of the national park.

Now, let’s talk about the exciting activities that take place around the Kosi River and discover the hidden gems of the wilderness. 

River Rafting

If you are someone who is always on their toes for some adventure, then river rafting in the Kosi River is a must-try experience. River rafting is a must-have experience that delivers an adrenaline rush like no other, and the waters of Kosi River in Corbett is just perfect for that. It buries you into the heart of adventure, as you go through the spine-tingling, rock-studded rapids. However, it’s important to note that river rafting in Corbett is a seasonal water activity, mostly done during the monsoon season, in the absence of heavy downpours.  The Kosi River gracefully sets the stage for an unforgettable rafting experience that promises to satisfy both beginners seeking new experiences and seasoned professionals looking for an adrenaline-packed challenge.

Angling and Riverside Bliss

For those looking for a more pleasureful way to connect with the river, the dazzling waters of Kosi invite you to sit by the riverside and chill with your people. You can dip your feet into the cool waters while you enjoy the beautiful scenery around you or engage in the art of penning down your thought, whichever way suits you as this mesmerising ambience is a paradise for writers, inspiring them to bring the best out of them. The Kosi River is also home to a species of fish called Mahseer, which attracts a variety of migratory birds who come to feast on this aquatic delight.

Bridge Slithering

Attention thrill-seekers hold on to your breaths! Bridge slithering is a very interesting rope activity that involves participants leaping from a Jhula bridge near the Garjia Temple. Before diving into the water, you will be sliding down until 6 feet above water. Hanging above the glittering waters of the Kosi river is an exciting way of establishing a connection with it. 

River Crossing

If you’re someone who is into an adventure that requires balance and courage, river Crossing is the best experience for you. Guarded with all the gears and safety equipment, you’ll cross the river, balancing on a thin string while being tethered to a rope that extends from one end of the river to the other. It’s a thrilling way to encounter Kosi’s gentle currents.

The Kosi River in Jim Corbett is a package of adventure, fun and excitement that offers a variety of experiences. From thrilling river rafting to beautiful riverside moments and adrenaline-pumping bridges slithering, this river has something for every nature enthusiast. Kosi River therefore provides a lovely and memorable experience, whether you are seeking adventure or just a getaway from routine life. 

Trekking trails of Kanatal: A beautiful journey amidst the wilderness

Kanatal is one of the most scenic and beautiful locations in the state of Uttarakhand that offers a natural escape from daily life as well as provides a soothing environment for one to rejuvenate the spirit. The temperature here ranges from 10°- 20° in the summers and 5°-10° during the winters, and it becomes a haven for those who seek a break in the lap of nature. Apart from a scenic beauty that attracts most of the visitors, it has, a lot of thrilling activities to offer, one of which is trekking.  

Sarkunda Devi Trek

One such trek is to Sarkunda Devi. This trek just not only offers heavy physical exercise but also offers a great religious experience to the visitors. Embarking the journey by visiting Sarkunda Devi Temple is the best way you can start your adventure. This temple is located just 5 kilometers away from the city and expands the comfortable 2-kilometer stretch giving you the ideal opportunity to immerse yourself within the natural essence. This trek is moderately difficult. This temple is an ancient heritage and is dedicated to Goddess Sati who was the first wife of Lord Shiva. Here you can create a connection with the surroundings as well as the divine with a peaceful state of mind that offers an insight within yourself and leads to self-realization. 

Chamba and Dhanaulti Trek

Next on the list, we have a trek to Chamba and Dhanaulti. This further adds to the layer of excitement on the journey. Dhanaulti is located just 22 kilometres away from Kanatal, which emerges a perfect combination of trekking and adventure. It takes about half a day to complete this trek, and it offers mystically beautiful views that respite from the hustle and bustle of the routine and it slowly sinks into the conscience like a lovely dream. This journey, however tiring it is, provides you with cherished memories filled with moments of quiet and comfort. 

Kodai Jungle Trek

Moving forward, we have the expedition to Kodai Jungle. This is a comparatively easier trek that offers a perfect balance of adventure and nature walks. This trail goes through the heart of Jungle and route Chamba, which spans to about 5 to 6 kilometres. The vibrant colours of nature are eye-catching and the jungle, adorned with wild orchids and dense vegetation, is a view that none can afford to miss. Apart from the views of mesmerizing valleys and mountains. This trek offers a glimpse of diverse species of wild animals, including boars, Musk deer, kakar and ghoral. This indeed becomes a treat for all the wild lovers. The minimal intrusion of humans in this landscape makes it a more authentic and natural way to connect with the raw beauty of nature. 

At last, we may conclude by saying that the treks in Kanatal transcend the boundaries of all physical activities by becoming an unforgettable experience that rejuvenates the spirit and engages with all the senses of the mind. From spirituality to culture, Natural beauty to wilderness, this place offers you a plethora of memories and opportunities to explore the location as well as yourself. Each step taken brings you close to the heart of nature and creates memories that you will cherish forever. This place offers you the opportunity to explore, experience and connect with the solace in the unspoiled beauty of Dev Bhoomi, the Uttarakhand region.