Kundalika (Kolad) River Rafting - A Weekend Adventure Getaway

Thinking of traveling to Rishikesh to experience the Adrenalin Rush and Thrill of River rafting? Hold On. You can feel it in your own backyard - KOLAD! If you have a bigger group / team, then there is unlimited fun guaranteed.

Kolad is a peaceful yet vibrant location in the Sahayadri ranges that offers adventure sports like rafting, rappelling, kayaking, rock climbing and many more. But of course, Kolad River Rafting has gained prominence in the recent years. This village in the Raigad district of Maharashtra presents the picturesque nature before the visitors with utmost happiness and excitement. The Kundalika River is one of the fastest flowing rivers in the south that makes it water ideal for adventure filled rafting. There are tricky rapids in the river that will promise you adventure at its best.

Best Time for Rafting:

Weather in and around Kolad is good all round the year. However, you should visit this place during the monsoon season from June - September for an amazing experience. The surroundings are more greener, the cascading waterfalls and roaring water in the river adds to a thrilling rafting experience.

How to Reach:

You can reach Kolad from Mumbai (150 KM) or Pune (120 KM) and will take approximately 2.5 - 3 hours. Mode of transport - Own private vehicle or bus.

Route from Pune:

Pune – Paud Road – Pirangut – Paud –Mulshi Dam – Tamhini Ghat – Kolad.

Route from Mumbai:

Mumbai – Pune Express Highway -> Khopoli – Pali Road ->Turn left onto NH66 (Mumbai – Goa Road) -> Continue Driving – Turn Right for Kolad.

Rafting Cost:

Rafting operations at Kundalika river are carried out by a team of Rafting Guides of Mercury Himalayan Explorations who originally conduct rafting in Rishikesh and in various parts of India on Pan India basis. There are different packages available based on the activities you select, group size, etc. Below are the packages offered by the Kundalika Rafting group:

1) Kundalika River Rafting 12 Km, 2.5 Hours

Rs 600 per person, Weekdays, Rs 1,000 per person, Weekends

2) River Rafting, Lunch, Commando Crossing, Burma Bridge (Buffet Lunch Veg & Non Veg)

Rs 800 per person, Weekdays, Rs 1,250 per person, Weekends

3) Kundalika River Rafting, Lunch, Kayaking, Zipline, River Crossing

Rs 1,250 per person, Weekdays, Rs 1,700 per person, Weekends

4) Overnight Stay Packages: River Rafting, Night Stay with All Meals, Bonfire, Music & Burma Bridge, Commando Crossing

Rs 2,200 per person, Weekends, Rs 1,600 per person, Weekdays

Note: Make sure you carry enough cash as they might have issues with their swipe machines and there are no ATMs in the vicinity.

Kundalika River White Water Rafting:

The source of Kundalika River is from Tamhini Ghat and it flows through Kolad village and is a perfect place for rafting. This rafting activity is conducted between two dams which are about 12 km apart. Rafting starts from the lower side of Bhira Dam and runs into Dolwahal Dam. You need to report at the Rafting starting point at 8:30 AM in the morning. This is the time when water is released from the dam which is ideal for rafting. They provide life safety jackets and helmets that'll help you keep safe. After brief but important instructions from your rafter and guide, get set to row your rafts.

The actual activity starts by 8:45 AM. Kolad River rafting promises you with a nerve thrilling experience by taking you through different levels of grades. You will be facing grade level II and III rapids. The moment you enter this level, you will be welcomed by raging white water. Brace yourself as you are likely to meet sudden drops. Beat the small waves rising high in order to lead forward without any tumbling. While manoeuvering through these grades.

Nearly after an hour of fighting the raging water, you'll finally enter silent waters. Jump in the river and allow your muscles to relax after the hard work they put in. If you don't, your guide will push you in, so just take the leap of faith! Swim, float, whether you know swimming or you don't, enjoy the surroundings and nature. After a fun filled 2.5 hours and nearly 12 KM, reach the end point.

If its raining, what better than treating yourself with the tasty Wada Pav, Bhaji (Pakoda) and a steaming cup of tea. Get back to the starting point change over and enjoy unlimited Veg / Nonveg Lunch. You can also indulge in other activities like kayaking, river zip line, Cammando Activities, Burma Bridge crossing, etc.

Start on the return journey after a memorable experience by 2-3 PM in the afternoon. If you choose the monsoon season, make sure to stop by the famous waterfalls in Tamhini Ghat and witness the widespread greenary and natural beauty.

Note:

1) Make sure you have a heavy breakfast so that you don't tire down during the rafting activity.

2) Carry enough cash as they might have issues with their swipe machines and there are no ATMs in the vicinity.

3) The unlimited lunch offered in the package is pretty ordinary, so you can go back to Tamhini Ghat and have sumptuous food.