Karnataka as a state provides in abundance for the adventure buffs. With most sites nestled in absolute dense locales of the Western Ghats, or by beach towns, the thrill and adrenaline rush provided is unparalleled! Be it white water rafting of the more turbulent rivers or just rafting with milder rapids for the noobs, this adventure sport has taken over thrill seekers.
If you are the one who always wants to ditch their apartments and live in a backpack, seeking adventure, this article is just for you. Many believe that the foothills of Himalayas serve as the perfect playground for the rafters, but that’s where they go wrong. Karnataka is an adventure hub. With breath-taking views of the Western Ghats, the escapade is unmatched. Here are the 10 Best White Water Rafting Places in Karnataka to awaken the adventurer in you: Life vest on? Ready? Off we go.
1. Bheemeshwari
If you’ve got one day to escape from reality, this is the place to be. The Cauvery River flows gently yet falls steeply along its course. The white river has an unpredictable swift to it which makes it even more stimulating to navigate your way. The river stretches for 8kms. If you are amongst those who easily get scared of such activities yet you are not willing to go back home without entering the fierce waters, it’s your chance to overcome your fears. You can even get off the raft and take a swim in the pristine waters. The exquisite wildlife just adds to the whole experience.
2. Dandeli
One can’t forget to mention Dandeli when it comes to adventure sports. It is said to be the best place in Karnataka to test your skills and up your rafting game. There are certain unexpected slopes and turns on the river bed which only indicates more kicks. The river is vast and stretches for almost 10 km. make sure you do a rain check before planning a trip here because the waters depend a lot on rain.
3. Barapole, Coorg
Nah, Coorg is not only famous for its coffee. The water at Coorg roars incalculable currents. The dense and lush green forests provide a perfect backdrop. They have also given the rapids creative names – Morning Coffee, Milky Churn, Grasshopper, Wicked Witch, Frame Head and so on. While you are at it, you might want to consider visiting the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary and witness spectacular flora and fauna it houses, the rafting ends at the entrance of the Sanctuary.
4. Kabini
Kabini is known for its wildlife. A herd of elephants is a common sight so keep your cameras on for that perfect Instagram picture. A pristine tributary of the Cauvery River, rafting in Kabini gives you the experience of enthralling rafting with a view of the exotic wildlife. Whether you are an amateur, semi-pro or professional, Kabini is a place for everyone.
5. Kondaji
Just a short distance from Davangere, the course at Kondaji is not really for the rapids but for the appealing views. Kondaji is the ideal place for rafters who seek tranquillity and calmness in the waters. Rafting here is more of sightseeing tour of the wildlife it has to offer when you float swiftly down the ghats. While crushing through waters lookout for the birds, on river banks, it is a treat for the eyes.
6. Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur is a cozy hill station. The aroma of coffee plantations here enters your head and lingers. The undulating water at Chikmagalur makes up an ideal white water rafting location. River Bhadra gushes rapidly. The sound calls out to the rafters. Rafting here is not crafty yet exhilarating.
7. Marawanthe
Marawanthe is a pristine beach location with golden sands. It is also listed as one of the best picnic spots outside Mangalore. When it comes to river rafting, Marawanthe is an underdog gaining popularity. Rafting around the coastline while the sun is bright forms just the perfect picture in my mind. Also, one can take a coracle ride on the Suparnika river, on the other side of the beach. (Note: Not a usual place for rafting)
8. Sitanadi, Agumbe
Sitanadi is for those the serious rafters looking for challenges. The waters over here are highly unforeseeable. Situated amidst the tropical forests of Western Ghats, river Sita here gets vehement in the monsoons intimidating the bravest. If you go on and explore, the area also has breath-taking waterfalls. It is one of the most challenging experiences of river rafting.
9. Sharavati, Honnemardu
The Sharavati River in Honnemaradu is famous for its Jog Falls and also a haven for adventure sports. Numerous Islands surround the waters, so the place is ideal for a day’s camping trip too. White water rafting or kayaking in the pristine waters of Sharavati is not so challenging. The river flows gently but does have unexpected twists and turns, enough to give you an adrenaline rush. The place is also rich in its superlative flora and fauna. Plan a weekend’s trip to Honnemardu to get the most of it.
10. Gokarna
If you are at Gokarna, spending a day lying on the beach and how about doing something offbeat and stirring? Head over to Gokarna for an adventurous time. The waters here are unpredictable. The uneven terrain and rock formations just add to the excitement. Plan a long trip if you feel like because this place is only a 2-hour drive away from Dandeli, doubling the amusement.
Also, Read:Â These Are The Lesser-Known Islands Of Karnataka You Should Definitely Explore Once
While one moment you are gasping for air on the water surface, the other moment the next set of rapid waves pushes you under the water. You feel like you are tumbling around in a washing machine. After the activity gets over and the uninhibited adrenaline inside you dies down, you just want to do it all over again. Don’t just sit around and binge on Netflix, get away from the mundane life, escape reality and make the most of your life. If adventure is your thing, then rafting is the best way to unwind and relax. Beat the heat and also the waves. Cheers!!
Note: Listen to the safety instructions carefully. The instructors are not joking around. The helmet and life jacket should be worn at all times during the session because it’s the only thing saving you from drowning.
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