The Dawn Boat Safari

Local fishermen offer slow drifts along the downstream Teesta, an intimate way to experience river life. These informal arrangements typically last 1-2 hours and cost Rs. 500-1000 depending on duration and negotiation skills. As the sun rises, the mist peels off the water, revealing Bar-headed Geese, Ruddy Shelducks, and Great Crested Grebes. The boatmen are surprisingly knowledgeable about the avian visitors; ask them to take you to the “islands” in the middle of the river.