River Rafting in Kashmir: Lidder in Pahalgam and Sindh in Sonamarg

Snowmelt from the Himalaya turns Kashmir's rivers into cold, fast, beautifully clear rapids. A rafting run is a splashy hour of shrieks, paddling and getting soaked to a degree you will remember every time you see a glass of ice water.

Where to raft

• Lidder, Pahalgam: the best-known stretch, with short runs suited to first-timers. See the Pahalgam guide.
• Sindh, Sonamarg: runs along the river near Sonamarg, with glacier-fed water. See the Sonamarg guide.

When to go

• Late spring to early summer: high water and lively rapids.
• Mid to late summer: often calmer, which suits families.
• After heavy rain: runs may be stopped when water is too high.

2026 status

Rafting in Kashmir has been suspended before for safety reviews, and the rules can change from season to season. We have not been able to confirm the 2026 position for every stretch, so we will not quote you a price or promise a run. Ask the Pahalgam Development Authority, the Sonamarg Development Authority or your operator for the current position before you travel.

Safety checklist

• Use registered operators with trained guides.
• Insist on a helmet and a properly fitted life jacket.
• Listen to the safety briefing; it is short and important.
• Wear quick-dry clothes and carry a change; the water is snow cold.
• Check age and health limits, especially for children and older travellers.

Add rafting to your trip

We plan rafting only when we can confirm it is running, with backup options such as trout fishing or the Aru and Betaab valleys. Ask our team through Get My Travel Plan, or see the 5 nights 6 days package.