Whitewater Rafting

History

Long before cars and buses, rafts were used to carry people from one place to another. They were made from logs, reeds, or planks that were firmly tied together.

Today, rafting is an exciting sport that is held on some of the most dangerous rivers in the world. It is called white water rafting because the force of the water creates a layer of white foam on the surface. These rough patches of water are called rapids. There are six levels of rafting based on this. Grade 1 is the easiest and Grade 6 is the most difficult and dangerous. Rafting became a part of the summer Olympics in 1997.

Rules

Never go rafting unaccompanied. It is safer and more fun to go rafting in a group. Always wear a life jacket. Even if you are a good swimmer the currents are very strong and a life jacket will help you float.

You must never go barefeet while rafting. Buy a pair of well-fitting waterproof shoes and test them in the water before you start.

Did You Know?

For the last six years Jeff Wise has been developing one of America’s first white water rafting parks. Complete with hiking trails and camping spots the park will have Grade 5 rapids. The Penrith Whitewater Stadium that was built specially for the Sydney Olympics in 2000 inspired Jeff to build a similar one in the US.

Whitewater Rafting in India

In India, some of the best spots for rafting are in the North, on the Himalayan rivers like the Bhaghirati, the Indus and the Zanskar. To the east, Arunachal Pradesh is well known for its beautiful rafting spots.