River Rafting in Kullu Manali | Cost and Other Details

Rafting in Manali, Kullu Overview

River Rafting in Kullu Manali is done along the River Beas and is considered ideal for expert rafters as well as beginners. The section of rafting starts from a small district called Pirdi and it flows through various locations like Bajaura, Sarabai, Bhuntar, Shamshi, Mohal, Raisol and Katrain.

Many service providers organize the sport of rafting in Manali and offer rafting gear on rent including raft, helmet, life-jacket and oars. Tented accommodation, campfires and bonfires are available on demand. The total cost of rafting in Kullu-Manali ranges from INR 500 to INR 2000 per person.

Must Know Before You Visit Rafting in Manali

Things to Carry :

Valid Identity Proof
Water Bottle
Firm footwear
Extra Sets of clothes
Waist Pouch
First Aid Kit (in case of contingency)

Tourists are expected to listen to the instructions of the operators and are advised to not try anything without proper guidance or consultation with the trained professionals.

Read More on Rafting in Manali

Types of Rapids

Grade 1: This is the start to the process of rafting at the Beas River in Kullu Manali. This kind of rapid is usually for beginners or people who rarely raft. This has the least risks involved, with less water turbulation and it is not located far from the next rapid.

Grade 2: As compared to the previous grade, the water current is extremely harsh and it is advised to prepare well with all the ropes because the rapids get harsher from this level.

Grade 3: The minute a person enters this level, he /she will be invited by foaming white water and the person is liable to meet sudden drops in the water level. Beating the little waves ascending to a height will ensure that a superior procedure has been arranged to balance the raft.

Grade 4: Upon entering this level, one will witness that the size of the waves becomes irregular. Long and vibrant rapids test a rafter’s skills. There will be many obstacles that will lie in the way while rafting in the Beas River.

It is important to note that while encountering this kind of rapid in Kullu Manali, the presence of trained and experienced guides is extremely important as they would have prior experience with the said grade.

Rafting Points in Kullu Manali

River Rafting is done in River Beas. From there, the rafting starts at Pirdi, which is the starting point of River Rafting in Kullu. The destination varies as per the convenience of the people due to the location and the time. The rafting route from Pirdi include Bajaura, Sarabai, Bhuntar and Shamshi, Mohal, Raisol and Katrain. The longest and the most preferred is from Pirdi to Bajaura, due to the thrill of the rapids and the time taken. It is 14 km and takes 1.5 hours. The route from Pirdi to Bhuntar is also enjoyable, which however takes less time as compared to Bajaura.

Rafting Operators in Kullu Manali

Various travel and tourism companies organize rafting in Kullu-Manali at a reasonable rate and ensure maximum safety for all the tourists. They operate mainly in different areas of Kullu-Manali region like Dhalpur, Bhuntar, Mohal, Bajaura and many other places.

Some prominent service providers are:
Shivay Tours and Travels
Look East Travels
Sky Riders Tours and Travels
Himachal Services

The tour operators are reachable and functional every day. If one wants to contact them, he/she could do so by getting in touch with them online, and they will guide a tourist how to go ahead with the booking for rafting and other requisites. It is recommended to complete the booking 1-2 weeks prior to the planned activity to avoid the rush. One can also contact the Online Travel Agencies to get a better understanding of the booking procedure. The booking can be made on the spot as well, but preference is given to people who have booked in advance.

How to reach Rafting in Manali

Air: Kullu has its own airport situated 14 kms from Manali. Other options are Bhuntar (50 km) which is connected to Delhi and other major cities by regular flight service. Shimla (231 km) and Dharamshala (240 km) are the other alternatives.
Rail: If rafting is on your calendar, then travelling by train is an easy option with Jogindernagar being the nearest railways station. Regular train services connect Manali to other major cities of India. Located 166 km away, there are alternatives including Chandigarh (345 km), Ambala (358 km) and Pathankot (325 km). From here, one can hire a cab or take bus till Raison Village.
Road: One of the most popular options of travelling to Manali is by bus. Regular bus services, both state owned and private, plies regularly between various local cities and other neighboring states. Apart from being a cheap option, it is also the convenient option. Further you can hire a cab or a bus to reach your final destination.