Who with a sense of adventure doesn’t fancy kayaking and rafting? Bouncing their way over the turbulent rivers, soaking themselves to the bones, adrenaline rushing as they pick momentum – we are sure the experience will speak for itself.
The six major rivers of the kingdom – Wang Chhu, Sunkosh, Puna Tsang Chhu, Mangde Chhu, Kuri Chhu and Dangme Chhu and their tributaries – fed by the glacial-melt of the Eastern Himalayas and cutting through high valleys and low plains to meet with India’s Brahmaputra have been scouted for kayaking and rafting.
But don’t get fooled by the pristine natural settings and variety of river courses. The waterways of Bhutan are rough, raging, foaming, untamed and tumultuous.
However, there are also easy routes with slow gentle flows for beginners, and super strong currents for the mighty veterans. Despite the sport’s recent introduction to the country, it is dramatically gaining popularity. March, April, November and December are the best times of the year for you to lose your mind in the middle of a powerful Bhutanese river torrent. We already warned you how dangerously furious the rivers are.
The Royal Government and the Department of Tourism invited Gerry Mofatt and Peter Knowles, experienced rafters/kayakers in 1997 to survey the rivers of Bhutan for potential water sports routes.
They conducted surveys to grade the rivers and also trained the first ever batch of Bhutanese river-guides. Since then, other rivers such as Punatsang Chhu, Manas and Amo Chhu have been surveyed as well. TCB guidelines make certain that all operators use professional equipments and maintain a reasonable guide-client ratio. The well trained guides will ensure your safety and make sure you enjoy the adventure.
Bhutanese agents also organize walking and trekking expeditions along the scenic river banks.
