Teesta River Rafting in Melli, West Bengal - An Amazing Experience
Updated December, 2018
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Rafting is always on my wishlist. I knew that rafting was undertaken in Teesta but never got any chance as I mostly travel solo.
So when we group of 5 friends returning from Sikkim, we decided to experience that awesomeness. This was not planned and we took a prompt decision when we saw rafting boats and adventure huts.
The rafting camps are in Melli, a small town on the West Bengal-Sikkim border near the River Teesta.
River Teesta flows down the Himalayan mountains and stretches with changing rapids that are excellent for rafting for both beginners and pro rafters.
The serene atmosphere and elegant green banks of Teesta attract many people to visit Kalingpong and the surrounding areas of Northern West Bengal.
We went in January which is a perfect time for rafting. Clear turquoise and ice-cold water gave us more thrill.
White Water Rafting In Teesta
There are many adventure sports agents you can find in Melli.
Special river rafting vacations are organized by these agents for families also. It will be an adventure of a lifetime and you will carry the memories of the trip forever. Most people who experience the adrenalin rush of white water rafting come back for more each year.
The average price is around INR 4 to 8k for a group of 6 people. They gave us 2 options for 4km rafting and 6km rafting. The rafting stretch is of 6km in 3 hrs.
We took the 6km option as we wanted to enjoy the water more and the experience is exceptional & stimulating.
Around 4 rapids in the Teesta river are of grades 1, 2, and 3. This is apt for beginner rafters.
River Rangit has higher-grade rapids due to the rough waters and intense flow. If you are experienced rafter and skilled swimmer then its best to attempt river rafting in Rangit.
For non-swimmers and first-timers:
1) Melli to 29th Mile (1.5 hours)
2) Melli to Kalijhora (3 hours)
For swimmers and experienced rafters:
1) Tarkhola to Melli (2 hours)
2) Tarkhola to 29 Mile (3 hours)
Around 2 pm we started out rafting. The experienced staff instructed us on the various techniques that are necessary to navigate the beautiful Teesta river, including safety instructions and precautions.
Life jackets are mandatory and the guides check thoroughly that it was worn properly. Actually they check wheater it is tight enough or not.
our decision of doing rafting was spontaneous that's why we were in our casual outfit jeans and tees. But it is recommended to wear light clothes like shorts, t-shirts, and water shoes. No flipflop is allowed.
We didn't have proper shoes so we went barefoot.
The best time for Teesta river rafting is winter. November to March. In monsoon, the activities are not conducted due to the high current & flow in water.
The best attire for rafting is Nylon shorts or pants and nylon t-shirts. If you are planning on the summer swimsuit is perfect.
That was our first time rafting so we were super excited and also a little bit scared. But the instructor cheered us handing over the paddle, assured us every will be okay and it will be super fun.
We went to the water chanting a mantra "Jai Teesta" to get blessings from the river - it's a belief of the local people that the river will keep us safe. 2 guides are also with us.
More exciting parts are the rapids. It came suddenly and we paddled harder. We were the only one who was rafting, so there was no scope for us to see how the raft looked while in that aggressive part of the river.
We enjoyed the rapids more than anything.
After those rapids, there was still water where we all jumped to the water and enjoyed the chilled water.
Teesta White Water Rafting is one of the thrilling adventures one should not miss in West Bengal. This was my wishlist tick and memorable. If I got a chance surely I will do it again.
Tips
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You can hire a photographer there, you can't take your phone or camera while rafting. They share photos on Pendrive or email or on your phone.
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Wear comfortable clothes. Do not carry any valuables. If it is lost it is lost forever.
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If you see no other groups or you are visiting in off-season Negotiate!! You will get a little bit of a discount for sure.
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Don't try to be a hero. Listen to the instructor carefully and follow what you are told to do. Do not try to copy their stunts. They are the pro. They know the river but you don't.
Just follow your heart, prepare yourself and enjoy the nature!!