5 Holy Rivers - Advanced Kayaking Program

About this program

Five of the Ganga's principal tributaries — the Alaknanda, Bhagirathi, Pindar, Mandakini and Dhauliganga — each hold outstanding whitewater. This 10-day itinerary strings together the strongest stretches of all five, covering about 200 kilometres of Himalayan river.

It is a compact way to taste the variety of Uttarakhand's classic runs in a single journey: different valleys, different characters of water, and enough mileage to settle into a paddling rhythm. The trip is aimed at intermediates who already have a working foundation and want time on bigger, more varied Himalayan whitewater.

The program is based at Shivanandi River Lodge in Rudraprayag. Quality kayaks and safety kit, internationally certified guides, meals, and transport between sections are arranged for the full duration of the trip.

The five rivers

Each river is a major tributary of the Ganga. The itinerary picks the most rewarding kayaking stretches rather than trying to paddle every kilometre.

• Alaknanda — the home river at Shivanandi, with classic Himalayan whitewater close to the lodge
• Bhagirathi — powerful mountain water with a distinct character of its own
• Pindar — a steep, scenic tributary that adds a wilder valley to the mix
• Mandakini — another of the region's signature runs, joining the Alaknanda at Rudraprayag
• Dhauliganga — remote high-Himalayan paddling that rounds out the five-river circuit

Highlights

• Ten days linking the standout sections of five Himalayan rivers
• Around 200 km of whitewater, with Class IV stretches in the mix
• Internationally certified guides and quality kayaking equipment
• Meals and transport arranged throughout the program
• Base at Shivanandi River Lodge on the Alaknanda

Shivanandi River Lodge

Eligibility

• Solid whitewater kayaking background — this is not a beginner course
• Comfortable on Class III water, with Class IV as the upper end of the itinerary
• A working combat roll, or the ability to recover and swim safely when needed
• Above age 16
• Ability to swim and float comfortably in deep water with the help of a PFD
• Must not have medical conditions that prevent hard physical activity on expedition days

Safety

Our courses are conducted with high safety standards:

• Learning sessions in a safe and comfortable environment
• Effective and well tested methods of teaching and progression
• Instructors with decades of experience in white water
• Instructors are certified first aid and CPR providers and whitewater rescue experts
• High quality, international standard equipment

Fees

Steps to book

Follow these steps to confirm your spot in the course:

• Fill out the enquiry form on this page with your details.
• Our team will contact you to confirm your eligibility for the course.
• Make 50% advance payment and complete the course registration form to reserve your slot
• Receive your slot confirmation

Gallery

Pictures from the 5 holy rivers.

Things to Carry