Adventures of Bahu Bali Part 1- Whitewater Rafting on the Ayung
Rafting on the Ayung
river, near Ubud. An experience to savour, and physical exercise too- it tests
you to just climb down to the river and up again. The rafting looks easy by
comparison-child’s play! We had a couple of kids with their Mom and Dad on our
raft, in fact.
The guide walks you
down to the river after giving you a life jacket, and an oar. The walk to the
scenic river-bed is quite deep, at least 300 steps down. And then, a set of
instructions later, you are into the rapids. Rowing forward and backward is
part of the instruction, but also some Chiki Chiki (bouncing on the seat to
send the air to another part of the raft, maybe), and Boom Boom (crouching down
to the bottom of the raft, to rebalance the centre of gravity, I guess) are two
interesting manouvres that were practiced, and used.
There is a stop along the
way for a rest and a drink, and there are photographers who click and sell you
pics of the ride also. A waterproof bag is also carried by the guide to save
your camera if you are carrying one- essential!! The last time I tried rafting
was on the Ocoee river in Tennessee.
Follow the
instructions, and enjoy the ride- we did! Some evidence..
Making "rapid" progress in the pics above, and taking a break (below)
Prepping with the jacket (above) and walking down to the river through scenic road (starting point), below.
