Rivers have always been a crucial component of human life. From their infinite depths, our stories emerged. Their waters have served as a moving exhibit of life on their banks, sometimes calm and tumultuous. They are limitless, ageless, and timeless. They have inspired authors, and travel enthusiasts are encouraged to imitate the real-life heroes and protagonists of classic cultural tales generated by the countless iconic riverbank voyages in cult and mainstream history and pop culture.

　　India offers diverse river trekking experiences across stunning regions. In the Himalayas, treks along rivers like Zanskar in Ladakh and Tons in Uttarakhand combine rugged beauty with adventure. South India boasts tranquil trails like the Cauvery River trek near Coorg. In the Northeast, Meghalaya’s Umngot River offers crystal-clear waters and scenic trekking routes. The Western Ghats host lush trails alongside rivers like Sharavati and Kali in Karnataka. Each region blends pristine landscapes with unique cultural and natural encounters. Here are some river treks you can sign up for on your next holiday.

　　The Sharavati

　　Follow the Sharavati River from its origin in an estuary to the Arabian Sea via a combination of treks, boat rides, and walks. The route showcases historical islands, the course of the river, and the various landforms created by the river. The treks are by BuDa Folklore, an organisation dedicated to conserving the rich biodiversity and folk tales of the indigenous people of Uttar Kannada.

　　The Kaveri or Cauvery

　　Explore the numerous islands that are created along the Kaveri, some of which are only accessible by river trekking and barefoot jungle walking. The trip follows the Kaveri as it enters the fascinating portion of its journey through Karnataka after starting in the Brahmagiri Mountains of the Western Ghats. The walk travels through valleys, deep canyons, and dense forests.

　　The Zanskar

　　The Chadar Trek takes place over the frozen Zanskar River in Ladakh every winter. Among the toughest treks in India, it lasts approximately six to ten days and reaches altitudes up to 10,900 feet. The trek was revived in 2023 after a two-year hiatus owing to the pandemic. The name of the trek comes from the appearance of a frozen Zanskar River (a tributary of the Indus flowing through Jammu and Kashmir). The ice layer on its frozen surface looks a lot like a white chadar (or sheet). The trek route is down the remote Zanskar gorge, where walls rise a few thousand feet out of the riverbed. Find more information visit www.ladakh-tourism.net/.

　　The Ken-Betwa And Sindh

　　Why not take some time out to explore rivers thoroughly The Moving Upstream Fellowship programme by Veditum attempts to bring new perspectives through which we can look at India's river ecosystems and the lives of riparian communities. The river walks document India's rivers extensively, understanding the implications of waterworks development and collecting accounts of the lived realities of riparian communities.

　　The Umngot, Meghalaya

　　Meghalaya offers an unforgettable adventure through lush landscapes, deep gorges, and crystal-clear waters. The Umngot River, famous for its surreal transparency, is a popular trek spot near Dawki. Known for its enchanting beauty, the trek allows explorers to walk along the riverbanks, cross traditional bamboo bridges, and enjoy the surrounding hills. Another notable trek is along the Wahkhen River in the remote Khasi Hills. Meghalaya, often called the "Abode of Clouds," features numerous rivers and hidden waterfalls, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Best explored in the cooler months, these trails are ideal for adventure seekers and photographers.