Nainital, the quaint little hill station in Uttarakhand is known for its picturesque hills and serene beauty. This weekend getaway destination is popular for its lakes and offers a variety of thrilling adventures for thrill seekers. If you are looking for adventurous water sports like river rafting, Nainital in Uttarakhand is one of the best places. The gushing rivers around Nainital amidst the majestic mountains provide the perfect setting for river rafting. In this blog, let us take you through Nainital rafting areas where you can experience an adrenaline-pumping rafting experience.
Nainital Rafting – Popular River Rafting Destinations
Uttarakhand is dotted with several pristine rivers of the Himalayas that offer the perfect river rafting experience for thrill seekers. Here are 5 rivers that are popular for river rafting in Uttarakhand.
Kosi River
Originating from the Someshwar Valley, the Kosi River meanders through the lush greenery of the Himalayas and is the main river near Nainital. The crystal-clear waters of The Kosi River are perfect for adventure sports like river rafting. Several spots on the river allow you to seek an adventurous Nainital rafting experience.
Important Things to Know
Rafting Condition – Rapids range from easy to challenging
Level – Ideal for both beginners and experienced rafters
Best Time to Visit – March to May
Ramganga River
Ramganga River originating from the Lower Himalayas of the Garhwal range is another popular river for rafting. With an elevation of 3110 meters above sea level, this quaint river offers breathtaking views and pristine waters for river rafting. This river passes through the Jim Corbett National Park and is home to various biodiversity. Thus if you love bird watching or want to spot wildlife, this is the best Nainital rafting place to visit. You can also enjoy boat safaris on the Ramganga River.
Important Things to Know
Rafting Condition – Rapids ranging from easy to challenging
Level – Ideal for both beginners and experienced rafters
Best Time to Visit – March to May
Kalsa River
The Kalsa River is a glacial stream near the Nainital area of Uttarakhand. This pristine river flows through forests and hamlets and is home to thriving biodiversity in the Himalayas. You can enjoy a variety of activities around the river like bird watching, doing picnics on the river banks, camping and rafting.
Important Things to Know
Rafting Condition – Rapids ranging from easy to challenging
Level – Ideal for both beginners and experienced rafters
Best Time to Visit – Avoid Monsoon and Winter season
Ramnagar
Ramnagar is dotted with rapid mountain rivers that are ideal for river rafting around Nainital. It is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts. It doesn’t matter if you are an amateur or pro, Nainital rafting in the rapid rivers can be adventurous for you. River rafting is a heart-pounding sport as the streams meander through forests, mountains, and rock outcrops.
Important Things to Know
Rafting Condition – Rapids ranging from easy to challenging
Level – Ideal for both beginners and experienced rafters
Best Time to Visit – March to May
Gomti River
The picturesque Gomti in Uttarakhand is known for its ethereal appeal. You get a taste of Himalayan rural life as the Gomti River meanders through valleys and villages after emerging from the slopes of Nainital.
This holy river is revered by numerous devotees for its banks are lined with numerous temples and ghats.
Apart from rafting you can explore the area on leisurely walks or even by boat losing yourself in the tranquillity.
Important Things to Know
Rafting Condition – Rapids ranging from easy to challenging
Level – Ideal for both beginners and experienced rafters
Best Time to Visit – March to May
Gaula River
Known as the ‘River of Gold’, the Gaula River is a beautiful river around the Nainital area in the Kumaon. It originates in the Kumaun Lesser Himalaya in Sattal Lake of Nainital District, Uttarakhand, flowing through Kathgodam and Haldwani before merging with the Ramganga River, a tributary of the Ganga River. Locally it is also known as Gola River, Kichha, and Baigul.
As you descend along the river you can witness the picturesque locales around the Gaula. Apart from rafting, the banks of the Gaula River are ideal for romantic walks and photography.
Important Things to Know
Rafting Condition – Rapids range from easy to challenging
Level – Ideal for both beginners and experienced rafters
Best Time to Visit – March to May, avoid monsoon and winter
Tips for a Thrilling and Safe River Rafting in Uttarakhand
River rafting is an adventure sport and it always helps when you are prepared. Here are some tips to keep in mind while you go river rafting in Uttarakhand.
- Outfitter – Select a licensed river rafting outfitter who follows proper safety measures.
- Fitness – While Nainital rafting doesn’t require extreme physical exertion, you still need to maintain basic fitness and swimming requirements.
- Attire – Choose quick-drying, comfortable clothing while you go river rafting in Nainital. Avoid cotton and opt for materials like modal, nylon, or polyester. Opt for shoes with good grip.
- Leave Valuables at the Hotel – You shouldn’t carry any valuables like a phone or cash while you go rafting. You can leave them at the hotel, car, or designated lockers at the rafting locales.
- Follow Instructions – Pay close attention to your guide’s instructions to stay safe.
- Paddle Together – It is a team sport, it helps when you coordinate with your team and paddle together.
- Stay Calm – In case you fall into the river, stay calm and let the professionals reach with help. Panicking can lead to mistakes
Nainital is a mesmerizing hill station with beautiful locales and amazing river rafting adventures. While planning a Nainital rafting experience, do not forget to book your stay at Blue Book at Gethia – a luxury hotel in Nainital.
Enjoy the serene beauty of the lush greens of Kumaon and the hospitality at Blue Book. With luxury rooms and scrumptious meals, your stay at Blue Book is sure to be etched in memory. You can easily visit any river rafting site in Uttarakhand from Blue Book at Gethia by car.
Come enjoy the Kumaoni hospitality at Blue Book Gethia.
