23 November,2016 08:18 AM IST | | mid-day online correspondent
With winter setting in, river rafting in Kolad can make for an excellent weekend break near Mumbai
Maharashtra is not only blessed with the azure Arabian Sea and emerald Western Ghats, but also with placid rivers flowing from one city to another. Mumbai, the capital, is home to innumerable vacationers and working professionals. Whatever the reason of visit is, everybody wants to get a slice of nearby destinations adorning the financial capital. Alibaug and Mahabaleshwar can be in everybody's list, but one can also opt for an offbeat escapade. And Kolad village is the answer to such an offbeat weekend getaway near Mumbai. Kolad is popular amongst Mumbaikars for the mighty Kundalika River and river rafting activity. With winter setting in, river rafting in Kolad can make for an excellent weekend break near Mumbai.
Before proceeding for river rafting near Mumbai, take a look at this handy rafting guide:
Best time to visit: November to February is the best time to visit Kolad and enjoy river rafting. The weather in the village remains pleasant and water is also devoid of turbulence.
Grades of rapids in Kundalika River: When the water passes through mountains, they experience drops. In total there are six rapid in the 12 km long stretch of rafting. Grade 1 is the easiest of all and inexperienced rafters can easily take part in this stage. The rapids at Grade 5 have large waves and powerful currents. The last grade, i.e, Grade 6 is the most difficult one and is therefore rarely navigated. Mostly the rapids will come across Grades 2, 3 and 4, though these have clear passing water too.
River rafting precautions: River rafting carries with it a fair amount of risk. So, be amateur or experienced rafters, everybody should carry along a safety standard guidebook. Firstly, take a briefing from the instructors. Secondly, do not hesitate in raising queries to the instructors before embarking into the rafting expedition. Thirdly, wear helmets and life jackets positively before the rafting starts. Fourthly, amateur rafters should make sure they do not go till the last grade, keeping the adversities in mind.
When to start rafting: The best time of the day to start rafting is 9:00 am. Kundalika River rafting in Kolad continuous for around 2-3 hours.
Post rafting activity: You will definitely get tired and might be drained out of energy. After the rafting make sure you have a proper lunch and relax for sometime.
Kolad is located off the Mumbai-Goa highway. Rafting in Kundalika River on the lap of this serene village is your answer to a pleasant yet adventurous outing near Mumbai.
