Canoeing and Kayaking in India

For enthusiasts who love to play with and dare to challenge the currents of majestically flowing water bodies across India, canoeing and kayaking is just a perfect water sport. Canoeing, a sport of impelling a canoe through water, is a fun on the radiant golden Indian sea beaches along the Indian coastline, the lakes situated in the North and the North Eastern Indian states offering some fantastic amenities of water sports. Kayaking is just like backpacking on an off beaten path, except that this time your adventure is on the sea. While canoes can accommodate only two people, kayaks have room for one or two people. These sports provide the best opportunity for sports lovers to come close to nature. You can enjoy canoeing and kayaking throughout year but avoid monsoons.

Enjoy canoing and kayaking in these regions of India:

Canoeing in Uttranchal
Canoeing in Darjeeling
Canoeing in Jammu and Kashmir
Canoeing in Karnataka
Canoeing in Haryana

Some of the best sites for canoeing in Uttaranchal include Lake Renuka along the Uttaranchal border, areas in Rishikesh and Dakpathar, lakes of Nainital and Saat Tal and Ramganga in Corbett National Park. Yet another place is the Tehri Dam of Tehri in Uttaranchal. This dam is pegged to be an ideal spot for canoeing not only in the country but in the entire sub-continent as a whole. Teesta river is a major site in Darjeeling for canoeing. Its strong currents and deep gorges will be perfect for canoeing and kayaking.

Jammu and Kashmir have Dal Lake the most beautiful and second largest lake in Jammu and Kashmir, Nagin/ Nageen Lake, where the waters are edged by willow and poplar tress whose reflection is mirrored in the lake, Wular Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia, Manasbal Lake, a natural and perennial source of water, for enjoying adventurous water sports. Experience the thrill of canoeing and kayaking on River Kali, the life line of central Karnataka, at Dandeli in Karnataka. The beautiful surroundings are home to a wide range of wildlife. In Haryana special water sport activities are planned for enthusiasts at Tikkar Tals at Morni Hills, Grey Pelican Yamuna Nagar and Damdama Lake.

Canoeing and kayaking a lot depends on weather and water level. One has to be conscious about his safety and comfort too. The basic requirements include a swimsuit and towel, shades, hat and sun block, a warm top, some spare clothes for change, a water bottle,food and an enthusiasm to seek great adventure on the sea. Also get a helmet, spray skirt with shock cords (for the kayaker), life jacket, throw line, maps in waterproof case, signaling devices, flashlight with extra batteries and bulbs, first-aid kit, pocket knife, matches in waterproof container, required licenses, permits and ID.


So, get ready to move on the cool blue waters bringing loads of thrill to the adventurer in you. The thrill of the game is to make your way through tranquil waters to reach your destination when cool breeze play with your hair and cold water splatter your face.