Himalayan Trek and Rafting
Himalaya Trek and Rafting

This expedition combines the best of trekking and river running in the Indian Himalayas...
Who are you
Jim Smith 

The Challenge
Himalayan trekking and rafting expedition

How long will it take
16 days

What was the distance
N/A

How much did it cost
£1,199 / $2,000

Who is the organiser
http://www.intoindia.com/



What was it like
The five day trek included in this expedition takes us to the intriguing Roopkund Lake (5029m). In 1942 local forest staff made a amazing discovery when they found over 300 skeletons at Roopkund Lake (5029m). Until 2004 scientists, historians and archaeologists continued to be puzzled by these remains. There were many theories about these people, who were they, where were they going and what were they doing at this high altitude. Were they traders, pilgrims or warriors? What killed them? Modern DNA testing answered some questions and giant hailstones, the size of cricket balls were identified as the cause of death. This trail goes through woodland, flora filled pastures and hamlets with great views of Nanda Ghungti (6310 m), Changabang (6864 m) & Trishul (7120 m) peaks.

The Kali river expedition is a fantastic introduction to white-water kayaking or rafting in India. It is ideal for kayakers who want to go on holiday with friends that have no kayaking experience, as they can raft instead. This picturesque river has long rapids with fun wave trains followed by relaxing flat sections making it a very safe rafting holiday. The river forms the border between India and Nepal. Generally we have lunch in Nepal and then set up camp on a large sandy beach in India. The river is full of fish including the impressive Himalayan Mahseer. If you can catch one, we will cook it! There is great wildlife in the area and you may be lucky enough to spot leopard, bear, elephant, monkey and some of the 500 different species of bird.

Day 1
Arrival in India.
You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel. Spend the afternoon and evening relaxing in your hotel room or taking in the sights of Delhi. Overnight Hotel
Day 2
Delhi to Rishikesh (330 m): 5/6 hrs
Take the train to Haridwar and then drive to Rishikesh. Afternoon rafting.
Day 3
Rishikesh to Lohajung (2290 m): 8/9 hrs.
Drive from Rishikesh to Lohajung.
Day 4
Lohajung to Didina (2525 m) 4/5 hrs
Trek from Lohajung to Didina.
Day 5
Didina to Ali Bugyal to Bedni Bugyal (3350 m)
Trek from Didina to Bedni Bugyal via Ali Bugyal.
Day 6
Bedni Bugyal to Bhagubasa (4100 m) 4/5 hrs
Trek from Bedni Bugyal to Bhagubasa.
Day 7
Bhagubasa to Roopkund Lake (5029 m) to Bedni Bugyal 7/8 hrs
Trek to the Roopkund Lake and then return to Bedni Bugyal.
Day 8
Bedni Bugyal to Wan (2436 m) to Lohajung 5/6 hrs
Trek to Wan and then drive to Lohajung.
Day 9
Lohajung to Pithoragarh: 8 hrs
Drive from Lohajung to Pithoragarh.
Day 10
Pithoragarh to Jauljibi to Chakidri Beach: 5/6 hrs.
Drive to Jauljibi and then raft to Chakidri Beach
Day 11 Chakidri to Matola: 3/4 hrs. 
Raft from Chakidri to Matola.
Day 12
Matola to Niddle: 4/5 hrs.
Paddle from Matola to Niddle beach.
Day 13
Niddle to Susila: 5 hrs.
Paddle from Niddle to Susila beach.
Day 14
Susila to Pari: 4 hrs.
Paddle from Susila to Pari beach.
Day 15
Chooka to Boom to Kathgodam: 6 hrs.
Paddle to Boom and then drive to Kathgodam. In the evening catch the train for Delhi.
Day 16
Arrive Delhi – Depart India.
Arrive in Delhi in the early morning. Transfer from the train station the international airport in time for your flight home. Trip ends.
How should you train

It helps to be in good shape for an expedition like this. As you’ll be both trekking and rafting / canoeing you’ll need a good overall level of fitness. You could spend some time in the gym working on your main mussel groups, legs, back chest, arms etc. Having a strong core is always useful both for trekking (with weight on your back) and also for the water sections. You should also work on your cardio, the fitter you are the more enjoyable the expedition will be.

If you can practice what you’ll be doing you’ll find it really useful. Try weekends away trekking, if you’re inexperienced start on some basic mountains, then try more complicated routes as you get better. Try the same with Kayaking or rafting. The more you do before you leave the better prepared you’ll be for the expedition.
Any other useful hints / links

Talk to the guys at Into India for more information 

The following is what we recommend you take, and is a guideline of what to bring. You are responsible to have the necessary personal equipment you need for this expedition.

Mountain Wear
Walking boots. If you are buying new boots for this trip please ensure they are well broken in before hand. Few things will make you more miserable during the trek than blisters.
Two pairs of thick socks and two pairs of thin socks.
Two or Three cotton t-shirts to wear in the evenings.
2 pairs of lightweight trousers or pants, one for trekking and one to wear at night
1 pair of shorts.
A good thermal (polypropylene) layer consisting of long johns and pullover.
Two light weight fleeces or wool jumpers.
A heavy fleece or down jacket.
Rain and wind proof jacket and trousers.
A warm sleeping bag, preferable 3/4 season’s.
A thermorest if you have one. We provide karrimats for all clients.
A woolen hat to wear in the mornings and evenings.
A sun hat with a wide brim to cover the face and neck.
Sunglasses.
Suncream at least factor 30.
A pair of gloves.
A camera.
A book and/or writing paper.
Underwear, we recommend you bring enough so you are comfortable at all times. Washing can be arranged in any of the large towns on your itinerary upon request.
Duffel bag or large rucksack to carry to gear while trekking. We recommend you use something strong and sturdy, as this bag will be carried by a porter or packed on a mule or yak.
Daypack: This is a small rucksack to carry the gear you will need while trekking. Camera, spare jacket, waterproof jacket, water bottle, pack lunch etc.
Water bottle.
Small towel for washing.
Wallet and /or money belt with compartment for coins.
Toiletries, N.B as little as possible, if you are travelling with friends try to share toiletries.
Headlamp or small torch with spare batteries.
River Wear for Rafters
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