We had an amazing river rafting experience in the Teesta river. This river flows through Sikkim and West Bengal and passes through Bangladesh and finally enters the Bay of Bengal. This was during the rainy weather when the river was up, and the ride was wild! The water here was a crystal-clear blue water. I consider my rafting experience in Teesta river as one of the best adventurous activity of my life.
We hired a river rafting boat which was provided by the local trained river guides. We paid 4000 INR (~52 US$) for the total trip. The trip covers a total distance of 4 KM along the challenging turbulence flow of water. The guides provided us the life jackets and a pair of Oars. Before the start of the ride, the guides briefed us all on the do’s and don’ts and other related tips for using the raft and oars. Cellphones were not allowed on board because of the safety issue and all the belongings were kept in our bags which were locked.
The experienced trained guides sat at the back of the boat to ensure our safe trip along the Teesta river. According to the guides, Teesta river has been rated under the “Safe Rafting” category and is ranked at Grade 4 on the international rafting scale. The water was chilly during our ride and I personally found it to be more intense and turbulent. The surrounding sites along the river were worth a watch.
Even though, I have a fear of water (Aquaphobia) and I don’t know the swimming but still I enjoyed the rafting journey and had a great experience which will be with me for lifetime.
