Typical Day on the Siang
On a typical trip, find yourself: Being one of fewer than 100 people each year able to raft the Siang Rafting down cascades and magnificent rapids on the upper Brahmaputra, one of the world's top rivers Encountering Mishmi tribals who must walk nine days to reach the river Sampling local food like deer, mithun, rat, and rice-beer (Optional!) Camping under the stars on white-sand beaches Savoring Indian sweets next to the shimmering Siang
We begin our river journey in Yingkiong, a remote town high in the Eastern Himalayas. After a thorough safety session, we set off through deep river canyons encountering big volume class IV rapids, separated by calmer pools. In these stretches we learn about any one of a myriad of topics: the geology of the region, India 's people and customs, its history and mythology. Mornings always begin with the echo of a conch, calling us to coffee and a mixture of Assam and Darjeeling teas. At lunch we stop on a sandy beach, for an organic, deli-style meal complete with Indian treats and an informative talk on Indian culture, dance, or music. Evenings find us camped riverside dining on tasty Indian dishes. Accompanying dinner we might enjoy a traditional Thadiya dance, a fire-spinning performance, a tabla-sitar recital, witness an Aarti ceremony, listen to tales from the Ramayana, or just get to know each other! During the days, we hike to scenic overlooks and waterfalls, float under swaying bamboo bridges hanging high above, visit templetowns such as Ponging Yingkiong, and arrive at confluences with other rivers, such as theYamne and the Yamgo. On the upper Brahmaputra, we experience the might of the Siang, the waters of which are said to make the drinker as powerful as a horse. We culminate with a morning drift to Pasighat. After a week of life on the river, we find ourselves again interacting with locals, describing our travels and experiences.
Travel Tips
Visa RequirementsEveryone entering India must obtain a tourist visa prior to traveling. Visas can be obtained through the Indian Embassy or a private visa service. As of the time of this writing U.S citizens were charged 60usd for a tourist Visa good for up to 6 months in India. In addition, your passport must be valid for up to 6 months after your trip date is scheduled. For more information please contact the Indian Embassy at www.indianembassy.org
WaterUnfortunately, water for consumption while traveling internationally is not always as reliable as your water at home. It is imperative that we all pay close attention to our own personal hygiene and staying healthy before and throughout the river expedition. Please be religious about washing your hands throughout the trip, especially before and after eating and using the toilet. Tap water and water served from unknown sources before and after the trip is not to be trusted. Stick with bottled water only! You may choose to bring your own water purification system or tablets. However, there will always be plenty of clean water available throughout the river portion of the expedition.
WeatherThe Brahmaputra River Valley has a mild to temperate climate, with temperatures ranging from 50-80 degrees Fahrenheit) between November and April. This is the dry season when we are on the river, although, the mornings can be dewy and we do expect to be getting wet. The combination of water and crisp weather means we will take extra care in staying warm and dry.
MoneyThe national currency of India is the Rupee (Rs) and at the time of this writing, the exchange rate is 56Rs to 1USD and 79Rs to 1GBP. It is always advised not to accept disfigured or torn bills. It’s also a good idea to carry a mixture of cash and travelers checks. As well as an exchange booth upon arrival at the Delhi International airport, there are ATM’s available in all major cities and credit cards accepted at larger hotels and restaurants. In Delhi, tipping is accepted at restaurants and hotel room services. Somewhere between 5-10% is appropriate.
BeveragesHydration is always of the utmost importance for us on all river expeditions. Especially due to the high temperatures and physical exertion necessary throughout the trip. In addition to water, we provide a modest amount of cocktails, wine and juice mix. If you plan on consuming a larger amount of alcoholic beverages, specific sodas or juices, please let your trip leader know in order to find everything you need before the trip. If there are specific brands you are looking for its best to find them in Duty free on your way to the destination.
What To Bring
-Sunscreen-Sunglasses (with retainers)-waterbottle (with carabiner to attach to raft)-Headtorch (headlamp or flashlight)-CAMERA!-Small Backpack (to carry clothing items on plane to Arunachal Pradesh)-Warm, fleece jacket or wool sweater-Raingear-1 pair long pants and shirt for camp-A couple of pairs of lightweight pants, shorts and shirts -2 pairs polypropilene top/bottoms (1 pr. midweight and 1 pr. expedition weight) -Warm hat, socks and gloves (fleece or wool)-Brimmed hat for sun protection-Swimsuit/shorts-Book/journal-Toiletries-River footwear (river shoes or river sandals that will stay on your feet!) -Hiking shoes/boots
Optional:-Video camera-Sandals for traveling -Binoculars
Global Descents Provides:-All transfers from Dehli and return.-Deluxe accomdations -Quality individual expedition tents, sleeping pads, sleeping bags for each individual -Wetsuits and splash jackets-All meals from Dehli to return-Highly qualified guide team-Good, clean fun
If cancellations are made prior to 4 months from departure, 10% of the expedition price will be non refundable. Between 4 months and 2 months from departure, 25% of the expedition price is non refundable. Inside 2 months and outside a month from departure, 50% of the expedition price will be non refundable. Inside a month from departure, 100% of the expedition price will be non refundable. Changes to your expedition can only be made between 4 months and 2 months. Changes inside two months are subject to a $250 per person charge. Inside a month expeditions are non changeable.
