Rafting in Sri Lanka: Essential Gear and Where to Find It
Introduction
Rafting is an outdoor sport which involves the moving over the water in a lightweight rubber boat. Being endowed with beautiful sceneries and many rivers Sri Lanka has crept on to the radar of thrill seekers specially the rafters. As it will be seen it is always advisable to ensure that you use appropriate equipment when riding the bike. This blog post will explain in detail everything that would be required for rafting in Sri Lanka and where to get them.
Picking the proper rafting equipment
The prospective rafter should ensure that he or she has the necessary gear should he or she plan to undertake a whitewater rafting exercise any season in Sri Lanka. Here’s a list of essential items:
Life jacket: A life jacket is as important as a helmet in any water sport activity. It offers floatation which is crucial if the client is involved in an accident on water. Select life jacket that you are able to comfortably wear for long time without it becoming uncomfortable on you.
Helmet: A helmet saves your head from impacts with stones, logs or something that might be on the river or along its course. Consider a helmet that is light in weight, tough, and is well aerated.
Wetsuit or neoprene shorts and shirt: In warm water a wetsuit is often needed, but in cooler water one should wear neoprene shorts and shirt. They include the type of garments that assists in keeping a balance body temperature and avoiding cases of hypothermia.
Paddle: It will take a paddle in order to navigate the raft through the water. A paddle should also be in proportion to the paddler, and the type of rafting that is to be done.
Spray skirt: A spray skirt is also used to avoid water from getting into the raft and dripping on you. It will need to be either for cold climate or if you will be facing challenging rapids on the river.
Footwear: Strong shoes with traction, like water shoes or sandal will be useful. Stay away from shoes like flip flops and other ‘open toed’ shoes.
First aid kit: It is also important to carry with you a first aid kit any time you travel out of your house. It should include simple first aid items including a first aid box, antiseptic wipes, paracetamol, aspirin, and a torch.
Sunscreen: Cover up for UV rays using sunscreen to ensure that it has a good SPF to help you beat the sun.
Sunglasses: Sunglasses protect the eyes from the radiation of the sun as well as debris.
Waterproof bag: A waterproof bag can be used to put your personal items like phone, wallet or keys in a safe manner.
Optional Gear
While not strictly necessary, the following items can enhance your rafting experience:
- Camera or GoPro: Take pictures with a camera or GoPro, that will help to explore the view while riding.
- Dry bag: Unless you want your items wet and damaged use a dry bag for your valuable items.
- Energy bars and drinks: Energize and hydrate with energy bar and drink.
- Whistle: A whistle can be also used for calling for help if you are trapped in few words, an emergency situation occurs.
Market for Purchasing Rafting Equipment’s in Sri Lanka
There are several options for purchasing or renting rafting gear in Sri Lanka:
Sports Stores and Outdoor Shops: One may find many sports stores and outdoor shops in Sri Lanka dealing equipment used for rafting. Some of the most popular ones are those of patagonia, dakine and oneill.
Online Retailers: In Amazon, Decathlon and other online shops there are various kinds of rafting gears for sale at reasonable prices. However, bear in mind the delivery period as well as the possibility of having to pay customs charges.
Renting Gear from Rafting Companies: Some of the Sri Lanka rafting companies provided the services provided concerning rental of gear. This may be advantageous if one does not wish to own equipment as many meet this need at the same time.
Ten Strategies for Selecting the Finest Rafting Equipment
When selecting rafting gear, consider the following factors:
- Type of rafting: Different types of rafting will be determined by the gear, which you are going to use, also the degree of difficulty. For instance, if you anticipate to undertake inconveniences during this process, then expect to require a higher level of gear preparedness.
- Quality and durability: Using good quality gears will help you get the best equipment since they are durable. Thus look for products that belong to well-established brands.
- Proper fit: Make sure your equipment is snug and it stays on you well. Clothing that are a little tight on the body such as life jackets or helmets can be dangerous.
- Budget: When selecting the rafting equipment you should consider your financial ability and then go for the more essential pieces.
Rafting in Sri Lanka: Popular Destinations
As for the whitewater rafting, there are many options for anyone visiting Sri Lanka with complete beginner options to fully advanced and technical runs. Here are some of the most popular rafting destinations in the country:
Kitulgala
Of the various places to go rafting in Sri Lanka, Kitulgala is without doubt, the most popular. Sited in the central highland of Sri Lanka, Kitulgala has different classification of rapids that vary from Class II to Class IV. This is made more beautiful by the presence of forests as well as water falls around the Kitulgala valley.
Kelani River
The Kelani River located in the western area of the Sri Lankan Island presents a far less challenging and more interesting rafting trip. Having more tamed water than in Kitulgala, the Kelani River proves to be perfect for families and relaxed riders more.
Mahaweli River
But for expert rafter and those who are in for a big thrilling ride Mahaweli River is the spot. The longest river of Sri Lanka is Mahaweli, with technical Class IV and V rapids and requires some average strength and ability. The river is situated at rather desolate area which gives rafting a magnificent view of the nature.
Rafting is one of the most adventurous sporting activities that people around the world would require in their lifetime.
While whitewater rafting is generally a safe activity, it’s essential to follow certain safety precautions:
- Listen to your guide: You also have an outing doctor, who understands the river and its hazards. He must necessarily obey their orders.
- Follow safety instructions: Always listen to the safety briefing and the demonstration before going for rafting adventure.
- Swim well and be comfortable in the water: However, though life jackets is included, it is advisable to have minimum swimming skills.
- Wear appropriate gear: Please wear a life vest, helmet and a wetsuit before you get into the water.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Remember there are certain risks that must be observed like there can be rocks, logs or branches hanging low as a client rides through.
Conclusion
Rafting in Sri Lanka beats all yearning and desire it is one of the most thrilling experiences in Sri Lanka. Adventures are all about safety, just make sure to have the right gear and follow all safety rules and then the fun starts. Whether you are a customer or a seasoned rafter, there is much to make for in the rivers of Sri Lanka. And here is the end of the preparation, so get set to go with the flow of rapids!
