Darjeeling White Water Rafting

White water rafting in River Teesta in Darjeeling is just a decade old. It was first introduced in 1991. Although known as the Queen of Hills, Darjeeling is getting increasingly popular for several water sports and one that leads is White Water Rafting. River Teesta and Rangeet gush down the mountains of Darjeeling and create foaming white water and stretches with varying rapids that are excellent for rafting for both beginners and seasoned rafters. White water rafting in Darjeeling got its name from the white foam produced from the water as it gushes over the rocks and boulders. River Teesta originates from Tso Lhamo lake in North Sikkim at an altitude of over 5,330 meters, while Rangeet originates from a glacier of Mount Kabru in the lower Kanchenjunga region. Both finally meet at a place which is close to Teesta Bazar. This meeting point is known as Triveni. While rafting also takes place at Triveni, the most popular place for rafting is on river Teesta is Melli. The Teesta River, is the main drainage of Sikkim, Darjeeling, and Kalimpong Hill Region.

It has been graded on the International scale at Grade 4. The icy cold waters of the rugged Teesta have a series of rapids with varying intensity, and character. It offers one of the finest rafting stretches. The Rangit, a tributary of the Teesta, has more turbulent waters. With its multi-dimensional rapids, it offers a challenge to more experienced rafters. Many tourists actually combine rafting with camping. The valley and the landscape around the rivers create an amazing scene. From the meeting point at Triveni, Teesta flows down south and meets the plains at Sivoke, where the Coronation Bridge connects north-eastern states with rest of the country.As you raft down Teesta, the mesmerizing view of the dense forests along the slope of the mountains, the vegetation, the many different birds, fishes on the water, combined with the excitement of rafting through the torrents and foaming waters create an unforgettable experience.

You should avoid the monsoon between July to September for river rafting. All other months are good for rafting. The best time for rafting in Darjeeling is between Decembers to June. But note that during winter, water can be ice cold. Every rafter should follow these rules before going for a river rafting :

• Persons suffering from weak heart conditions, epilepsy, expecting mothers and those with serious ailments are not permitted to go rafting.
• Alcohol is not permitted at least 6 hours prior to the river trip.
• Age limit is 8 years except the float trips where it is relaxed to 5 years.
• Non swimmers are welcome; you may be restricted to certain section of the river, on the advice of the river guide or trip leader.