River waves to delight rafters yet again in Thusharagiri

The white-water rafting as part of the second edition of the Malabar International River Festival, jointly organised by the District Tourism Promotion Council, Kerala Adventure Tourism Promotion Society, and Kerala Kayaking Academy, will begin at Thusharagiri on June 22.

The event, to be held in association with Madras Fun Tools, would be inaugurated by State Tourism Minister A.P. Anilkumar at 11 a.m., said the organisers during a press meet here on Thursday.

The organisers would operate two rafting trips of eight kilometres on a daily basis. Each trip would accommodate a maximum of six participants. The recreational adventure sport could be enjoyed by everyone over 12 years of age, said the organisers.

The sport involved navigating through river rapids with the help of an inflatable raft under expert supervision. “The experience will allow participants to enjoy the beautiful, unbridled miles of a river as the raft flows through the lush jungles and mountains,” said V.D. Joseph, one of the organisers.

The rafting tickets could be booked at the DTPC office in Kozhikode and Wayanad districts. “It can also be bought by contacting Jacopo Nordera, founder of Madras Fun Tools, at 9884814610,” said Mr. Joseph.

Rafting sessions in Thusharagiri would be held on the Iruvanjhipuzha river below the Arippara falls. Each trip would last an estimated two hours from the starting point. The rapids on the river, according to the organisers, would be rated as class III promising participants a thoroughly enjoyable and challenging experience.

“Safety of the participants will be ensured adhering to the strict international standards,” said District Collector C.A. Latha, who spoke on the occasion.

The rafting would be carried out by a team of highly experienced professionals from Expeditions India and Madras Fun Tools.

The kayaking championship as part of the river festival would take place in July. “We have already received 11 foreign entries for the kayaking championship,” said Mr. Joseph. According to him, teams from almost all states in the country would participate in various events of the championship.