Top 10 Tips for White Water Rafting in Karnataka

The River Kali in Karnataka attracts plenty of adventurous people out to have fun outdoors on white water rafting expeditions.

Naturally, safety should be the first concern of any tourist who goes on a white water rafting trip. It is hoped that this article will provide sufficient basic tips for white water rafting activities in Karnatka.

1. Do not venture out on your own on a white water rafting trip in Karnataka. It is always best to go in a group (generally maximum in a group are 6) so that there are other people to help you out if you get injured. If you fall in the river and are swept away, others can call for help. This is especially important when you do not know the terrain in Karnataka.

2. People with heart problems and expectant mothers are not allowed to go on white water rafting trips. If you are taking kids along, find out the age limit. Usually children below 12 years are not taken on white water rafting trips in Karnataka. However, with prior notice some operators do provide rafts specifically for younger kids.

3. Always wear a life jacket and helmet.

4. Do not bedeck yourself in jewellery. Chains and bracelets can hamper your movements.

5. Always wear suitable clothing – neither too loose so it flaps and comes in your way; nor too tight & heavy as you will also be wearing a life jacket over it.

6. Since you are likely to be in the waters of the Kali River at some time or the other, it is best to wear proper footwear that will not slip. Casual flip-flops and slippers are out of question. It is best to wear lightweight comfortable footwear that is firmly strapped on your feet.

7. Never carry money – coins will just fall out and currency notes will get wet. In any case, you are not going shopping in your raft!

8. Tourists enjoying white water rafting in Karnataka would love to capture their thrilling adventure on camera. However, most white water rafting operators will insist that you not carry you camera / video-cam. In the first place you cannot put it safely anywhere in your clothing where it will not be damaged. Further, you can't exactly stop in the middle of the expedition, let go off your oar and take photos – this is dangerous for the group as a whole.

9. If you are apprehensive about dealing with very rough waters, you can opt for a shorter run that involves less wild rapids. White water rafting operators in Karnataka generally offer two to three options with varying distances. They also provide safety equipment for the white water rafting trip.

10. It would be ideal to go white water rafting in Karnataka with an operator that can provide a back-up team which can follow your group, as this will greatly help in the case of an unexpected emergency. It is best to go with a professional instructor who can give proper guidance not just in basic oar strokes but also safety measures and is aware of basic first aid.

And the best place in Karnataka to go white water rafting is Dandeli of course!