Barapole is the least known of Karnataka’s white water rafting destinations. This stretch of river has more than nine Class 2‑Class 4 rapids. Barapole is set on the banks of the Kithu Kakathu River in Coorg.
The river is a turbulent one all along its route as it flows through the Brahmagiri hills to the Arabian Sea via Kerala. Barapole is approximately 270 km from Bangalore by road. The route to be followed is the road touching Ramanagram, Channapatna, Maddur, Mandya Srirangpatna, Hunsur, Kutta, Srimangala, T Shettigere, KKR Junction, and Barahole.
White Water Rafting Facilities At Barapole
The tour organizers prepare the guest for the white water experience through an orientation and safety precaution activity. Guests should follow certain basic safety precautions of wearing comfortable clothing and footwear. A torch, insect repellent, spare sets of clothes, and water proof covers for cameras should be carried.
The minimum age requirement for this trip is 13 years. Adults should be in reasonably good health and weigh less than 110 kg. Knowledge of swimming is not mandatory. The entire rapid run takes almost 2 hours, after which guests are transported back to camp.
Morning Coffee, Grasshopper, Wicked Witch, Milky Churn, and Frame Head are the names given to some of the rapids along this river. The stretch of this river as it courses through Poonya coffee estate is especially turbulent and has a class 4 rapid .The dense forest has plenty of reptiles; hence, the traveler had be prepared to encounter spiders, leeches, and snakes in the course of the trip. The stretch of rapids ends just before the river enters the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary.
Accommodation in Bara pole is basic though comfortable. The guest intending a long stay is advised to book in at any of the popular homestays in Madikeri .There is a choice of log huts, dormitory style accommodation, and tents for the adventurously inclined. The food provided at most of the camps is basic; hence, it is advisable to carry ready-to-eat food packets with you.
Other Activities At Barapole
Tadiyendamol Trek: Expert guides help you trek up Coorg’s highest peak, Tadiyendamol. The route wanders through dense forests infested with leeches. The trekker is advised to wear rain proof clothing and comfortable foot wear.
Nagarahole Wildlife Sanctuary: The Nagarahole Wildlife Sanctuary is the natural habitat of elephants, panthers, and barking deer. This is the only sanctuary I south India where tigers have been spotted.
Iruppu Falls: The Iruppu falls are a roaring cataract of water in the Brahmagiri hills. A trek to the top of the falls is extremely challenging and meant for seasoned trekkers only.
Places Of Tourist Interest Around Barapole
Madikeri, which is about an hour’s drive from Barapole, has many places of tourist interest as follows:
- Talacauvery
- Bhagamandala
- Abbey falls
- Raja’s seat
- Dubare Elephant Camp
The class of rapids at Barapole are comparable to those at Rishikesh. This river is one of the best kept sites for adventure sport in South India.
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