If you are an adventure seeker who loves all things with uninhibited energy, River rafting near Bangalore is a sport that you must add to your list of adventures to do in life. Bangalore is often known to be an adventure hub among the major cosmopolitan cities of India and offers various adventures to live up to its reputation. With many outdoor spots in the vicinity that boast of splashing rivers and picturesque landscapes, Bangalore has lately become one of the most exciting places to try river rafting for the adrenaline junkies. Tourists can look forward to river rafting near Bangalore at various places to relish an adrenaline rush. These prominent places for river rafting are Bheemeshwari, Coorg, Dandeli, Sitanadi, Sharavati, Kondaji and Kabini river. All these places present a unique experience for the tourists and offer a mesmerising holiday surrounded by pristine scenery and indulging in your favourite sport. While some of these spots challenge you with grade 2-4 rapids, some are quite tranquil that help in navigating the meandering rivers easily. Located just a few hours away from the city, river rafting near Bangalore is a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and provides a delightful way to relax and unwind.
One can enjoy a rafting escapade in Bangalore under the supervised guidance of expert rafters. The rafting tours take the safety precautions very carefully and allow the tourists to just enjoy themselves. The beginners are also given basic lessons in paddling before venturing out into the rough waters. The thrilling activity can be enjoyed even by non-swimmers and around 6 people can enjoy together on a single rafting trip near Bangalore. Only those who are suffering from any health disease or heart ailments are advised not to partake in river rafting. River rafting Bangalore tour packages start at INR 1000 and can go up to INR 5000 per person. These packages differ in prices according to the facilities offered like camping, trekking, birdwatching, breakfast and dinner etc. Other amazing activities which tourists can enjoy the package are kayaking, wildlife safari, nature walk, angling, kayaking, coracle rides etc. The trips can be booked online and one can choose the date and time according to them. The best time to go for river rafting near Bangalore is from the month of June to September when the monsoons are in full spirit.
A refreshing retreat from the mundane daily life, river rafting is an exceptional retreat to enjoy with friends and family. The throbbing white waters of the rivers near Bangalore captivate the tourists with their surreal ambience. Moreover, the adventurous experience is an excellent way to revive your senses. It gives you the chance to conquer your fears and manoeuvre through the treacherous rivers in the most exhilarating way. The gorgeous flora and fauna of the landscape offer a visual treat for the eyes and the experience goes down the memory lane as one of the best moments of life.
People Also Ask About Rafting in Bangalore
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What are the best places for river rafting near Bangalore?
1. Bheemeshwari: The lush 8-kilometres long stretch of Cauvery River at Bheemeshwari is one of the most popular rafting locations near Bangalore. The river stretch offers class 2 & 3 rapids along with some unpredictable spots that only add to the exhilaration and challenge.
2. Chikamagalur: Imagine rafting in a location that’s surrounded by one of the densest forests in the world. Bhadra River at Chikmagalur offers whitewater rafting in stretches ranging from 8-40 kilometre long stretches with class-3 rapids.
3. Dandeli: A favourite with expert rafters, River Kali here offers a 12-kilometre long stretch with class 2 & 3 rapids. This stretch is especially known for some unexpected turns, making the experience even more exciting.
4. Coorg: The Barapole River here offers interesting rafting options ranging from still rafting to rapids in class 2-4 given interesting names like Morning Coffee, Milky Churn, Grasshopper, etc. This lush stretch surrounded by Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary makes the experience even better.
5. Honnemaradu: The backwaters of Sharavathi River are a haven for rafting enthusiasts. Though the waters are not too choppy, they offer some unexpected turns that keep the experience challenging. Rafters can enjoy class 2-3 rapids here.
6. Kabini: It is not uncommon for rafters to spot a herd of elephants while rafting in this tributary of River Cauvery. It offers class 2-3 rapids perfect for beginners and experts.
7. Gokarna: What will probably be one of the most exciting adventures of your life, rafting at Gokarna is a once in a lifetime experience. The Karwar Beach here is dotted with unexpected twists and turns and unpredictable waters keeping rafters at their edge, adding a lot to the challenge -
Which places are famous for rafting near Bangalore?
Engaging in a river rafting experience as the waters come gushing down from the hills is an experience which is going to last in your memories for a long time to come. The wonderful waterfalls and the pristine valleys which offer an excellent location for such an adventurous activity are found in plenty if you are discovering the suburbs of Bangalore.
The best places for river rafting near Bangalore are:
- Barapole, Coorg
- Bheemeshwari
- Kabini
- Kondaji, Davanagere
- Sitanadi, Agumbe
- Sharavati, Honnemardu
- Dandeli
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Is a Coorg a good destination for rafting?
Yes, Coorg is a wonderful location for rafting and you will love to experience this activity here. River rafting is becoming one of the most sought after activities in Coorg. You can try the Barapole River rafting which you can find in the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary and Dubare Elephant Camp. It will cost you about Rs 1,000 per person.
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What level of rapids are there in Barapole River?
The rapids of Barapole River are known for their turbulent currents. The entire stretch of river has more than nine Class 2-Class 4 rapids which means medium waves, some rocks and requires adequate skills from paddling to maneuvering through the Whitewater River.
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Can we do rafting in Bheemeshwari?
River rafting in Bheemeshwari is one of the famous activity one can not afford to miss. Also known as the Cauvery Fishing Camp, the eight kilo meter stretch River Cauvery which flows through here is famous for class 2-3 rapids. The experience is both exciting and challenging and you will not be able to help yourself but admire the tranquil landscape.
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Why is Dandeli famous for rafting? What type of rapids will we get there?
Rafting is one of the most famous activities to be done in Dandeli. It is an adventurous activity where even non swimmers and amateurs feel safe as they enjoy and experience the thrill.
The rafting trail at Dandeli which stretches to about 12 kilometers is famous for grade 2 and grade 3 rapids. The Grade 2 rapids are comparatively easier to maneuver with, some bumps here and there but they are relatively easy passages. However the grade 3 rapids require expert maneuvering skills to move amidst the rocks on the river.
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What is the best time for rafting in Coorg and Dandeli?
- In Coorg: For rafting in the Barapole River in Coorg, the best time is from the month of June to the month of September. The best time to visit the Dubare rafting campis from mid-June to mid-September.
- In Dandeli: If you are looking for rafting in Dandeli, it is best to go when the water is in abundance in the rivers. So we suggest you to plan your trip from the months of January to March to enjoy the best experience.
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What type of clothing should we carry for a rafting vacation?
While going for rafting, it is advisable that you wear comfortable clothes like tracksuits or sportswear. You should also wear sports shoes while dressing up which helps you keep up with the activities. You should also remove any piece of jewelry or watches so that they may not get washed away in the currents.
It is advisable that you also carry a pair of dry clothes too while going for rafting to change into later on.
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Will we have any guide for rafting?
Yes, you will be accompanied by a guide while rafting. There are professional guides to give you safety tips and acquaint you with the signals to be used while rafting as well as make you practice basic strokes. You are also given a safety briefing where you are usually shown a video before the rafting activity and then only you can go on with the adventure.
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Will there be any life jackets provided to me for rafting?
Yes, life jackets are one of the essentials that is included in the safety gear when you go rafting. These are easily floatable jackets that are provided for your safety while rafting. The guides acquaint you on how to wear these life jackets and how to handle any emergency when you are out in the river while rafting.
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Am I expected to have some sort of physical fitness for rafting?
You are only required to have moderate fitness levels for rafting. But we advise you to let your guides know if you suffer from any ailments or have any medical conditions so that they can guide you better with the prerequisites for the rafting activity.
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Can a person with spectacles do river rafting?
You will be maneuvering along narrow passages and the ride may be bumpy upon the rocks cutting through the river while rafting. But you can do rafting even if you wear spectacles. However we advise you to use contact lenses or arrange for spare pair of spectacles since there is always a chance for spectacles to be knocked off while rafting.
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Can children do river rafting? Is it safe for them to raft?
Children under the age of 14 are not allowed to try this activity. However, those who are older can engage in river rafting which is a safe activity, as long as you follow the safety instructions properly and are assisted by a professional guide.
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How can I make payment for rafting? Can I book online?
You can make a payment for rafting through electronic mode via Debit Card/Credit Card or through NEFT mode. You can book online with the tour operator to book your slot on the date and time of your choice.
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Will there be any medical facility in case of any emergency druring rafting?
Each company that conducts river rafting also have medically trained professionals in case of emergency who can assist you immediately. They also take you to the nearest medical clinic or hospital so that you can get treated immediately.
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Can we have alcohol before going for rafting?
No, alcohol is strictly prohibited when you are going for a rafting activity. For your safety, we strongly advise you not to do that as you may endanger the lives of everyone around you including yourself. Most tour operators ask the tourists to sign an indemnity bond which makes you privy to the declaration of not being under the influence of alcohol before the trip.
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Can I go for rafting if I don’t know swimming?
Yes, you can certainly go for rafting even if you don’t know swimming. You are accompanied by a professional guide and familiarized with all the safety instructions before you go on the trip. The rafting trails near Coorg are comparatively easier and quite an exciting experience for amateurs.
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Can I carry my camera during the rafting?
Yes, you can carry a camera during the rafting trip but we suggest you to bring a waterproof camera. However we advise you to hold it carefully while you are riding through the rapids down the river and keep it protected in a waterproof case.
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Places To Visit In Bangalore
Lalbagh is one of the oldest botanical gardens in India and is also a major tourist attraction in South India. Located in South Bengaluru, the Lalbagh Botanical Garden is not only one of the largest botanical gardens in India, but also the first of its kind, with planned routes, glasshouses and ornamental flowers growing throughout the property.The garden itself is spread over an area of 240 acres and its construction was commissioned by the famous ruler Hyder Ali. It was finally completed by his son- Tipu Sultan- who designed the gardens keeping in mind the beautiful gardens of Sira in Tumkur District in Karnataka.Lalbagh is home to exotic flowers that were imported by the Sultan from countries like France, Persia, Arabia, Afghanistan, etc. Therefore, flowers that were previously never seen in India were first witnessed in this historical garden. Trees that were imported by Tipu Sultan from all over the world can still be found growing here.Apart from the exotic trees, visitors can also catch sight of some rare birds such as the Myna, pond heron, purple moorhen, parakeets, Brahminy kites, the common egret and much more. Apart from the stunning flora and fauna of the Lalbagh Botanical Garden, it has another striking attraction, which is the Lalbagh rock. This rock, which is said to be over 3000 years old, is one of the oldest rocks in the world and can be found in the center of the garden.
At the intersection of MG road and Residency road lies Brigade road which is considered a shopping paradise for the city dwellers. There is a long stretch of standalone shops, individual retailers, and outlet selling almost everything you need making it one the best Bangalore sightseeing. This commercial hubs houses myriads of global brand outlets as well and it has been a hub for celebrating New Year in the almost every year.
In the technology-driven, futuristic Silicon Valley of India, monuments of historical significance boasting of a glorious past are also abundant. The historical heritage of the city is so magnificent and eminent that it rises to prominence on its own. One such landmark is the Tudor style Bangalore Palace.The Palace is a perfect representation of the lavishness and splendour with which India's most resilient dynasties ruled. Famous for its opulent architecture and amusement activities, the Palace is visited by several visitors every day. The colossal Palace boasts of massive courtyards, bright interiors, kingly grounds, splendid spiral staircases, stately towers and a luscious garden in a proud display of posh regality.Anyone who admires classic architecture and artistry would be delighted to experience it first hand at this Palace. It also houses an amusement park in its enclave to the delight of many younger visitors. Having been a private residence to the Wodeyar family, Bangalore palace offers a linear perspective into the royal life of the forepassed era. It is plush with a vibrant and varied collection of ancient royal artefacts, paraphernalia, hunting trophies and family photos.The Palace houses some of the most famous paintings of the 19th Century, including the works of one of India's most celebrated artists Raja Ravi Verma. The Palace grounds very often become venues for concerts and festivals. World-renowned artists like Enrique and Guns N' Roses have graced the palace grounds with their talent and presence. The Palace hence combines the richness and luxury of royal history with the vivacious and exuberant demeanour of the youth. Bangalore Palace HistoryOriginally a property of Reverend J Garrett, the principal of a school in the cantonment town at that time, the area where the Palace is now located was purchased from him by the British Guardians of Maharaja Chamarajendra Wadiyar for 40,000 rupees. The construction of the palace began in the year 1874. Mr John Cameron of Lalbagh was assigned the task of landscaping Palace along with its surroundings. The complete construction of the palace was completed in the year, 1878.The Palace saw many additions and modifications in its architecture in subsequent years. Maharaja Jayachamaraja Wadiyar added a few portions like the twin external staircase, the platform for musicians etc. outside the Durbar Hall. In 1970, HH Jayachamarajendra Wodeyar transferred ownership of the property to two companies, Chamundi Hotels and Shree Venkateshwara Real Estate Enterprises. However, this transaction was later shown to be fraudulent. A legal battle followed between this deal and Jayachamarajendra's son, Srikanta Datta. The five sisters of Srikanta Datta are now in possession of sections of the 28 acres of the Palace. In the year 1990 Srikant Datta finally compromised with the Chamaraju group and got back his part of the property including the main Palace except for 45 acres that the Chamaraju group still retains. Architecture:The Palace showcases exquisite wooden interiors surrounded by pristine walls. The Palace is enclosed within beautiful gardens. The architecture is a medley of Tudor style and Scottish style and has gothic undertones. A lot of physical artefacts inside are of British origin. It is said that the architecture of this building is inspired by that of the Windsor Castle and other architectural marvels of England and Normandy. The most prominent features of the Palace like the two-level granite structure of the fortified towers and turreted parapets take direct inspiration from the Tudor building styles. The entrance is decorated with grand Roman arches. The exterior of the building is covered in eccentric shapes and angles. The exterior walls are of a blushing cinnabar shade that gives the building a quaint Victorian vibe. The floor of the open courtyard of the Palace is adorned with granite seats covered with azure ceramic tiles. The ground floor also contains a beautifully decorated ballroom.The first floor of the Palace has a distinct chamber known as the Durbar Hall attached to an ornate staircase.This hall is famous for the enormous elephant head that is mounted in it and its gothic style tinted glass windows.
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