Fascinating Escapades

Two adventure activities, rafting in pious Ganga and an exciting trek to Gartang Gali in Gangotri National Park, added more thrill to my recent Ganga walks in Uttarakhand.

Rafting in pious Ganga

I blended rafting with walking in Rishikesh to experience the roaring Ganga in rapids and to float on calm Ganga, besides soaking in the breathtaking panorama. A beautiful feel indeed.

There are many rafting options in and around Rishikesh, the world famous destination for yoga and adventure activities. Rafting holds top position among adventure activities in Rishikesh. Kodiala, Shivpuri and Brahmpuri are prominent stretches for rafting to choose from. Kodiala stretch has the most intense rapids. I chose a stretch with less intense rapids. Charges are usually Rs 1000 to 2500 per person depending upon the rafting distance and package.

Gartang Gali Trek

Gartang Gali, one of the most popular treks in Uttarakhand, was opened to visitors in 2021 after 59 years. Located in the picturesque Nelong Valley near the Indo-China border, the 150-year old Gartang Gali wood-lined stairway was built by Peshawari Pathans, who created an architectural masterpiece by cutting the granite of a vertical rock face. This route was traditionally used by merchants trading between India and Tibet.

Perched at around 11000 km, hanging from a rocky ledge, Gartang Gali offers stunning vistas of Jad Ganga that rushes down below. A challenging trek of 2.5 km through dense forest leads to Gartang Gali.

It is said, this is the bridge that Austrian climber Heinrich Harrer of Seven Years in Tibet fame had used to escape to Tibet from India, during World War II. His story later inspired the Hollywood film of the same name starring Brad Pitt.

Gartang Gali entrance is next to the iconic Lanka bridge on Gangotri highway. Entrance ticket is Rs 200 for Indians.