River Rafting in Kullu | Hari Har Adventure

 For all water enthusiasts, river rafting in Kullu is one of the most exciting adventure sports in Himachal Pradesh, and you can enjoy it with your friends and family. This is a group activity which will definitely provide you the adrenaline rush as you float in the white water.

As you navigate through the fast-moving waters, you’ll be surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Kullu Valley, with lush green landscapes and towering mountains on either side. Rafting is not only about adventure activities in Kullu but also about connecting with nature and enjoying the serenity that the river provides.

Professional instructors are always there to guide you, ensuring a safe yet exciting experience. You can enjoy river rafting depending on the length and timing i.e. short, medium, and long stretches. You will pass through pine and deodar trees on one side while having a magnificent view of Himalayan mountains. It is a unique rafting of 7 kms and 14 kms that gives you ever-lasting memories and experiences.

1. Why choose Kullu for River Rafting

Now that everything is clear, let’s move on to the river rafting scene in Kullu. The four rivers in Himachal that provide rafting opportunities are the Beas, Chenab, Satluj, and Ravi. Generally, Kullu rafting is divided into six groups according to the degree of difficulty. The best waters for various types of rafting are found in Beas.

The river originates in the Rohtang Pass and, as it flows downstream, bestows blessings upon the Kullu Valley. So the Beas River becomes one of the best places in North India for rafting when the proper kind of stability is present for 15 km in Kullu.

2. Best Time for River Rafting in Kullu

Summer Season :  March to June

Monsoon Season : Avoid July to mid-September due to hoghwaterlevels and safety concerns.

Winter Season :  Late September to February is alsosuitable, though water levels are lower.

3. Popular Rafting Stretches in Kullu

1. Pirdi to Bajaura (14 km)

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours

2. Pirdi to Sharabai (10 km)

Duration: Around 1 hour

3. Pirdi to Bhunter (6 km)

Duration: Approximately 45 minutes

4. Pirdi to Jhiri (15 km)

Duration: Approximately 1.5 minutes

4.How to reach Kullu for River Rafting

By Air:

Kullu – Manali Airport (Bhuntar Airport) is the closest airport to Manali. One can take a cab or taxi or private bus to reach desired destination in Manali.

By Road:

Roadways are the cheapest and the most convenient means to reach Manali. Both state buses & the private buses connect this city with other major parts of the country like- Delhi, Chandigarh, etc.

By Train:

Joginder Nagar Railway Station is the closest railway station to Manali. From the station, one can take a bus or taxi to reach the location.

5. Safety Tips For Rafting In Kullu

• 7 people are enough in a raft:A raft should only hold seven people, including the guide, per the guidelines because packing a raft with more people than it can hold will increase the risk of capsizing. Experts say that carrying more than seven passengers makes it harder to maneuver the raft because of the increased weight, which increases the risk of an accident. If at all you have a bigger group, you can divide in two rafts.
• Avoid river rafting when water is at high levels:The local government closes the rafting season every year for two months, from July to September, because rafting in high waters is dangerous when the Beas River’s water level rises as a result of monsoon rains.Nevertheless, periods of intense and continuous rain can cause water levels to rise even during the non-monsoon season. Furthermore, it has frequently been observed that operators take needless chances by taking customers rafting in the rain or with high water levels. Never go rafting when the water level is high or when it has been raining non stop for several hours.
• Grab a wetsuit:Additionally, experts advise that it’s always safer to go rafting wearing a wet suit because the river water gets pretty chilly, especially starting in October. Even though it’s uncommon for someone to become hypothermic after the raft capsizes, it’s still best to be cautious.
• Don’t attempt rafting if you have any medical conditions:The majority of safety experts advise that even if you are not a swimmer, you can go rafting as long as all safety precautions are followed. However, individuals with specific medical conditions, such as those suffering from epilepsy, asthma, or heart disease, ought to refrain from rafting. Additionally, pregnant women should not go rafting.It is your responsibility to let the guide know if you are not a swimmer so that he gets an idea of whom to first in the event of an emergency.
• Avoid drugs or drinks if you want to do river rafting: Finally, but just as importantly, never go rafting when under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The people seated in the raft guide’s raft are also subject to the no-drug, no-alcohol policy. Rafting in Kullu has seen its fair share of incidents wherein individuals lost their balance while in a raft and fell into the river while high on drugs or alcohol. You don’t want to wind up there, we are sure.

6.Things to carry for River Rafting

When it comes to your rafting experience, there are a few things that are both required and permitted. Your possessions will be stored in a rucksack during high tide, so you won’t have to worry about them. You’ll also have time to take photos and videos. This is a list of everything you can bring, but remember to pack light.

• Personal Medicines
• Valid ID Proof
• Video Camera/gopro
• Personal towel.
• Extra clothes set
• Extra Chappals/shoes
• Waist pouch
• Swim suit.

Conclusion

River rafting provides a thrilling and memorable adventure, combining nature exploration with an adrenaline rush. It’s a great way to challenge yourself, connect with nature, and create lasting memories, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rafter. Prioritizing safety and choosing the right destination is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.