River Rafting in Sikkim

Teesta is a beautiful River, and also lifeline of Sikkim. River rafting is one of the most popular adventure activities in Sikkim. Those who have interest in river rafting, the state provides them Teesta and Rangeet. Exploring the region with these two is a different experience. Counted amongst the finest rafting stretches, these two water areas can be explored with the help of Department of Tourism as well as travel agents who are engaged in arranging river rafting trips in Gangtok, Teesta and Rangeet rivers. These are the preferred places for tourists to enjoy this adventure activity.

The main river in the north-eastern state of Sikkim, the Teesta originates at Cho Lhamu Lake and gushes down the mountains, creating foaming white rapids which are literally tailor-made for kayaking or rafting. he rugged Teesta River has been ranked on the international scale at Grade 4, owing to a series of rapids with varying intensity, in the icy cold waters. Most of the Teesta is either grade III or IV, so it,s advisable to have some experience of river running before you attempt it. Teesta offers one of the finest rafting stretches. Probably the shortest run on the Teesta is the run between Makha and Rongpo, a trip of about two and a half hours. Among the longer and more gruelling runs on the river are the stretches between Dikchu and Teesta Bridge. Rafting between Borgand and Melli is another exciting choice across Teesta River. The tributaries of the Teesta, including the Lachung Chu and the Lachen, also make for good river running. In Teesta, rafting is restricted to the winter months, between October and April. However, spring or early summer is an ideal time for river rafting. One can choose from paddle rafting and oar rafting in the Teesta River.

The Rangeet, a tributary of the Teesta, demarcates the border between the states of West Bengal and Sikkim and has more turbulent waters, primarily for kayaking. With its rolling and tumbling rapids, it offers a challenge to more experienced rafters. Good river running, however, is also possible on the river, especially in the upper reaches of the Rangeet. On both, Teesta and Rangeet, the riverbanks have dense forests, with some areas of small villages. The beaches here have plenty of white sand, and offer good campsites. 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. In case you are new to the sport, this is the right time when you should go for it. Special arrangements are made for the beginners and learners by the tourist department that enables you to grab the techniques of rafting easily. In addition to this, if you need any sort of assistance, Tourism Department of Sikkim can be consulted. To add to the spirit of adventure you experience, stay overnight at the beach camps. There are several ideal campsites in Sikkim.