River Rafting

If you're really looking for some lifetime adventure, exploring the mother nature on your own and observing the true serene environment, then River Rafting in Sikkim is greeting you with its two mighty rivers - Teesta and Rangit. Originating from the eastern Himalayan region, the Teesta river offers some of the best rafting stretches of the world. On the other hand the Rangit river, a tributary of the river Teesta, has more swirling waters that offers a challenge to experienced rafters.

Referred as the ‘lifeline of Sikkim’, the Teesta river flows from the arctic Himalayas to the plain terrain of Bay of Bengal. In Sikkim the Teesta river originates from the mystic Cho Lhamu Lake, gushing, foaming and cutting centrally through the state. Graded on the International scale at Grade IV, the icy-cold waters of the river has a series of white water rapids with varying intensity and character.

From gentle rides through wonderful mountain views, from lush green vegetation to thrilling white water, the Teesta river offers everything which a rafting enthusiast expect during an enthralling rafting expedition. Moreover, while you raft on the Teesta river you get a good chance to see the riverbanks picturesquely dotted with thick forests, some patches of terraced cultivation and lovely small villages.

Rafting Stretches on River Teesta
Makha and Rongpo : Makha and Rongpo strecth is propably the shortest run on the Teesta river, the trip will take around two and a half hours.

Dikchu and Teesta Bridge : This run is longer and more gruelling than Makha and Rongpo stretch.

Dikchu and Kali Johra (West Bengal) : A five day run, it starts from Sikkim and ends in Kali Johra located in West Bengal.

Bordang and Melli : Rafting between Borgand and Melli is another exciting option across Teesta river.

Essential Gears for River Rafting
Essential Gears required for the adventure sport of river rafting include rafts, wet suits, nylon shorts, sweater, sleeping bags, life jackets, helmet or cap, tennis shoes or sandals, gloves, first aid kit, some eatable etc. Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation (STDC) and a number of private agencies provide essential equipments to rafters on hire. Rafting courses are also offered by STDC and private operators. Whether you are novice rafter or an experienced one, you can take the assistance of the Department of Tourism and travel agencies for arranging rafting trips.

River Rafting Seasons in Sikkim
The period between October to December is considered the best season to enjoy river rafting in Sikkim.

Guidelines for river rafting in Sikkim

You must be physically and mentally fit for undertaking the adventure sport of white water rafting in Sikkim.
You are advised to always carry necessary prescription medicines such as insulin, inhalers, bee-sting kits etc.
While you are going on a rafting expedition, avoid carrying your car keys, wallets, mobile and other valuables as you might loose them.
Always remember to carry dry bags or boxes to secure small items of personal use that you may bring with you.
Also take along goggles, sunscreen lotion and a still-camera, with a strap to secure these items.
While rafting in Sikkim, avoid cotton clothing (except in summer season), as cotton clothes will take away warmth from your body. Wool, polyester fleece and other synthetic materials will keep your body warmer and they will dry faster than cotton clothes.