Frequently Asked Questions

Q : How fit do I need to be for the trip? How difficult is it overall and how challenging is the whitewater?
A : Anybody with an aptitude for the great outdoors, average fitness level and no serious health problems can do it. The Zanskar is an intermediate river suitable to first-time rafters. It is rated Class IV in places due to its remote location and high altitude. The river is our highway to exploring an otherwise inaccessible area. The rapids start out mild and gradually increase in difficulty as the week goes on. Control of the raft is always in the hands of your experienced guide, who will instruct you on rafting basics, paddling techniques and teamwork.

Q : What is the routine / schedule on the river ?
A : We raft every day (except one) after breakfast until early afternoon averaging 15-20 miles each day. After lunch and camp set-up, we will explore the countryside and inhabitation and the Buddhist monasteries tucked away on steep cliffs. Afternoon activities after rafting, lunch and camp set-up, are optional and other activities include relaxing in camp taking in the scenery, reading a book etc. We will have one “Layover Day”, at midpoint during the river journey. The entire day is spent trekking up the picturesque Markha valley.

Q : What kind of accommodation and meals can I expect on the trip ?
A : In the “meet point” town of Leh you will stay in one of the best hotels - the Lha-Rimo, on a twin occupancy basis (single supplement extra). All your meals and accommodation are included in the price. The hotel meal menus are fixed and cater to all tastes. On the river journey and transit, the stay is inrest houses for 2 nights, but mostly in tented accommodation. Tents provided are of "alpine design" for 2 persons and singles, complete with self-inflating mattresses for ultimate camping comfort. There is a dining tent and awning, folding chairs, stools and tables. A toilet tent is provided, complete with toilet paper. There is a full "American spread" for breakfast, with cereal, eggs biscuits / toast etc. River lunches are packed sandwiches and an assortmentof "the works", with all the nutrition and calories you need. Our cook tent andkitchen staff provides freshly cooked meals at each and every camp, cateringto both Indian and western tastes. Drinking water is sourced from springs and treated with iodine.

Q : Am I expected to help in the camp set-up and daily chores?
A : You can help our staff put-up and take down your tent if you like. But everything else, including cooking, washing-up, set-up of toilets, dining tent,packing and loading is taken care of by the staff and guides.

Q : Why spend two days in Leh on the way in ? We could save on time and costs?
A : The 2 day stay is to allow your body to acclimatize to new heights, since you have flown in from Delhi (780 ft. above sea level) to Leh (11,500 ft above sea level). You should not exert yourself for the first 48 hrs. Drink plenty of water and let your body adjust to the oxygen-starved atmosphere. During this stay short walks to the nearby monasteries and the market in Leh are in order, with no hectic or strenuous activity.

Q : Can the 3 day drive to the start of the river trip, be shortened?
A : The 3-day drive is actually one of the high points of the journey. It is just as much a part of the grand experience of this area.Few mountain drives in the world offer immersion into such varied and breathtaking landscapes, full of unique cultural encounters and geological wonders. We do not drive more than 6 hrs per day so that you can enjoy the scenery, take photos, check out the monasteries and interact with the locals at a relaxed, comfortable pace.

Q : What do we wear on the river ? What do we bring and how do we pack?
A : You will be provided with a "list of things to bring", at the time of booking All your personal gear and sleeping bags are packed in our large water proof gear bags, ensuring complete water tightness. Smaller dry bags, or "easy access" waterproof bags are also provided by us, for your cameras, sun block and things you would want to access during float parts of the river trip. You will be provided with 3mm neoprene wetsuits designed for white-water use and are mandatory (you could bring your personal one if you so desire). We also provide neoprene gloves, nylon splash jackets, personal floatation devices, and helmets for optimal protection against the icy Zanskar waters.

Q : What are the day and night temperatures and what sort of weather can I expect on the trip
A : Weather is fair this time of year. Maximum day temperatures are usually in the 80’s and night temperatures, usually not lower than 40 degrees F. Due to high altitude and rarified atmosphere conditions the sun can be very harsh and we recommend an adequate supply of sun block for sensitive skin. Of course “usual weather conditions” can vary in this type of environment and you will need to come adequately prepared, for adverse weather. Equipment
list to follow.