The Ganges is divided into 4 stretches:
The entire run is approximately 50-60km. The private operators prefer to run each
separately. However, there is no reason why you can't run stage 2, 3 and 4
together. In fact, this is the most happening stretch as far as rapids are
concerned, so if you have a good team of rafters, you will enjoy doing it in
one run.
Deoprayag - Kaudiyala
Deoprayag is about 22km from Kaudiyala by road. The river in this part is very calm and serene with no real rapids.The biggest rapids are grade III. Do this stretch if you wish to relax, bodysurf, and just want to learn to row as a team.
Kaudiyala - Neem Beach
This entire stretch has some of the best rapids on the Ganges. From Kaudiyala, you start with the massive Wall rapid. It is just that, a towering wall of water. If you are lucky, as I was when I caught a 6 foot wave, you will catch a big wave here. Further down, during stages 3 & 4, there are other big rapids such as Three Blind Mice , Roller Coaster and Golf Course. Satisfaction Guaranteed!!!
The best time to run this river is in the fall (August-end October). While private operators organize tours well into the winter, try to avoid it that late. After early November the river water is far too cold, and there is not enough sun during the day, for the trip to be enjoyable. Also avoid the monsoon season.
