Rafting season picks up momentum

RISHIKESH, A CENTER IN YOGA AND MEDITATION, HAS OF LATE EMERGED AS A GREAT HUB OF WATER SPORTS, SUCH AS rafting-in-rishikeshRAFTING, KAYAKING AND CANOEING

#Rafting activities, which after remaining suspended for about three months during the rainy season, began on September 15, have started gaining momentum in #Rishikesh region. It may be recalled that Rishikesh, which was always been a world famous centre of pilgrimage, #yoga and meditation, has emerged during the last few decades as a great hub of water sports, such as rafting, kayaking and canoeing. The gradient and speed of the flow of the Ganga water, with world-class foamy rapids, serene environment and salubrious climate make the #Rishikesh-Kaudiala-Shivpuri region as an ideal destination for water sports enthusiasts from across the country and abroad.

Though rafting activities in the region started in the 90’s of the last century, these took the form of a thriving industry with the creation of the Uttarakhand state in 2000. “ Now there are about 136 rafting companies, including some pan India rafting companies, operating in the region, providing employment to about 20,000 people, including the transporters, hoteliers and other sections of the business community. Rafting industry, which generates the revenue of hundreds of crore of rupee for the state government, the rafting companies and the locals, is the backbone of the economy of the region. Rafting industry, which was flourishing in the region, was dealt a severe blow by the unprecedented floods which ravaged the state in mid June last year. “Since the last year’s monsoon mayhem created the impression that Uttarakhand, including Rishikesh region, is not safe destination for tourists, the rafting industry came almost to a standstill. Now there are signs of revival and though the water sports lover are not turning up in as large numbers as they used to turn up before the nature’s fury struck the state last year, the industry has started recovering.” There are about 400 rafts operating in the region at present at these colourful rafts can be seen dotting the stream of the Ganga these days.”

The rafting companies undertake rafting expeditions for different types of persons on different rapids. “The 9km stretch from Ram Jhoola to Bhrampuri suits the novice, the families and the children, while the 17 km stretch up to Shivpuri is good for the youths and the rapids up to Marine Drive and Kaudiala are meant for the adventurous. Different companies offer varying packages, depending on the facilities being provided. For simple rafting the package varies from Rs.400 to Rs.1,500 per person, while for rafting, along with beach #camping and #adventure sports, the package ranges from Rs 1,500 to Rs. 2,500 per person.

Apart from offering a smoothing environment and an opportunity to enjoy the romance and thrill on water; the place also offers a scope to indulge in physical activities, such as cliff jump and rock climbing. Every thing here in Rishikesh is planned and Safe.

#Pathikworld Tours got expertise in all types of adventure activities and well experienced in activities during camping and rafting.

Get #Rafting Packages here