Ladakh is a land like no other. Bounded by two of
the world's mightiest mountain ranges, the Great Himalaya and the
Karakoram, it lies athwart two other, the Ladakh range and the Zanskar
range. Ladakh lies at altitudes ranging from about 9,000 feet (2750m)
at Kargil to 25,170 feet (7,672m) at Saser Kangri in the Karakoram.
A range of rafting options is available on the Indus and its major tributaries.
The best stretch for professionally guided runs in white water is on the Indus
between Spituk and Saspol.
Beyond Saspol, the river becomes difficult and funning it requires technically
skilled participants and careful organisation.
Upward of Spituk, the Indus has the easiest stretch up to Karu, ideal for basic
training and for day-return "scenic floating" for amateurs.
In recent years, running the Indus has become an attractive alternative to trekking
and features on the itinerary of most visitors. Several agencies in Leh offer
attractive rafting packages. Ask for details at the Tourist Office at Leh.
They will also be able to provide some rafts on hire. The most difficult but
exciting option for river running is on the Zanskar along its spectacular course
through the gorge in the Zanskar mountins, between Padum and Nimo.
This is suitable only for well organized white-water expedition, prepared for
several days of river running and camping in absolute wilderness.
Participants are required to be trained rafters themselves while the arrangements
should be assigned to a dependable professional agency.
Adequate arrangements for rescue coverage is an essential pre-requisite for
embarking upon a white -water expedition on river like the Zanskar.
River Rafting in Ladakh, Ladakh Adventure Reservation
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