Ayung River

The longest river in Bali, Ayung is renowned for its quiet beauty. It flows 68.5 kilometers from the northern high mountains to Sanur, passing through Bangli, Badung, and Gianyar. Flowing through clefts between sheer, rocky cliffs, Ayung forms a truly mesmerizing site to behold while travelling with Bali trip packages from India. Traveling along the river, one also comes across reliefs cut across the rocky mountain walls, depicting elaborate scenes from Mahabharata.

The river's maintenance owes much to the local dwellers that live along the area. Ayung River has a strong bond with Balinese people, particularly in rural areas. The Ayung river is best known as a whitewater rafting site among tourists, and is probably the most renowned spot in Bali for the sport. The flow here is moderate and the rapids gentle throughout the year, making it well suited for those absolutely new to the sport as well.

The rapids here range from Grades 1 to 3, and come with the added bonus of absolutely resplendent views. The cliffs surrounding Ayung in this region are also embedded with a few small waterfalls, adding to the charm of your experience.

• Whether new to the sport or a seasoned expert, you can now make the best of Ayung as you embark on a rafting adventure in the Ubud river.
• Admire the stunning green scenery that passes you by as you travel along the river.
• Keep an eye out for the elaborate reliefs depicting mythological scenes that adorn the rocky cliffs on either side of the Ayung River.
• Splash through the little waterfalls that adorn the rocks along the Ayung as you travel along on your rafting boat.

Owing to its gentle current, the Ayung River remains fit for rafting sports throughout the year. However, we would suggest visiting during the drier months, between April and September, just to make sure that your expedition goes off without a hitch.

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Things to keep in mind while rafting in Ayung River

• Appropriate clothing to enjoy rafting: Like any adventure sports, rafting requires one to wear loose fitting clothes, preferably of cotton. Since there’s nearly every chance of your shoes getting wet, sandals or waterproof shoes would be a better option than sneakers or other clothed footwear.
• Physical Fitness: Although rafting in Ayung does not require much expertise, having a minimal level of physical fitness would be recommendable. Rafters can always prepare themselves with a mild exercise routine in the days leading up to the rafting experience.
• Sitting position: For the sake of balance, rafters are meant to sit at the very edge of the boat rather than at the very center.

Places to eat near Ayung River:

• Sumbar Hidup: A traditional cafe, Sumbar Hidup serves a range of generous meals at pocket friendly prices. The vibe here is rustic, casual, and the Padang dishes are to die for.
• Terracotta: Set across the lush green fields of Ubud, Terracotta combines traditional dining with views. The fare here, which combines a whole range of international and Indonesian delicacies, are prepared with the utmost finesse. Terracotta also features a pool with provisions for poolside dining.
• Temuku Ubud Restaurant and Bar: Serving a range of traditional Indonesian meals and cafe-food, Temuku Ubud caters to every kind of taste and customer. The outdoorsy vibe at the restaurant significantly enhances the experience of dining here. The restaurant also features a well stocked bar and beverage menu.

Also Check: Best Hotels in Ubud

The Ayung River section best suited for rafting is located just 20 kilometers away from central Ubud. The only way to access the region would be to hire a car or a scooter, and you can easily reach the river in about 1 hour.

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