Cikandang River lures rafting enthusiasts

The Cikandang in Garut regency is among dozens of rivers in the country popular with rafters. Located in a remote area, however, the river is not as popular as the Citarik or Cicatih rivers, also in West Java. However, the Cikandang offers many benefits for water sports enthusiasts, especially rafters.

Cikandang River is still a pristine area, located far from residential houses. Its water is clear and the view around the river is fabulous. While rowing down the river, rafters can see andesite and sloping riverbanks (andesite is a fine-grained, extrusive igneous rock).

The most beautiful canyon along the Cikandang River is located some two kilometers before Cijayana Beach, where the rafting session ends. The canyon is huge and wide and as it is located on the bend of the river, the water is relatively calm in certain spots, providing rafters a good spot for a dip.

Besides the riverbanks, rafters can also see beautiful paddy fields and forests along the river, whose water flows from the upper river sourced in Mount Papandayan.

What makes Cikandang River special is its water level, which is relatively constant throughout the year. During the dry season, rafters can still find challenging rapids and drops.

Unlike other rivers, rapids and drops can be found in many places along the river so you don't have to wait long for them. Soon after cruising over calm water, you will quickly traverse stones and boulders in fast currents fraught with danger, and finally jump into calmer waters.

The grade of difficulty on the Cikandang River is classified as a three to four, from a maximum of six (grade one is for beginners and grade six is for advanced rafters). In some spots, the currents are regular and slow, but in other spots they are fast, irregular and dangerous.

There are also some whirlpools, which require special skill to overcome. Rafters have to produce quick maneuvers and be ready in pressing situations. If rafters lose their cool, their raft could flip over, putting them in danger.

The challenging seven-hour adventure in Cikandang finishes with some sight-seeing at the beautiful Cijayana Beach.

Although rafting along the Cikandang River is a challenging adventure, its relative isolation has prevented many rafting enthusiasts from enjoying the river. In order to increase interest, rafting operators, including Amphibia Outdoor Provider, provide extra activities for trips down the Cikandang River.

"There is a barbecue, campfire, acoustic music and sight- seeing on a tea plantation," said Bonky from one of the rafting operators. -- A'an Suryana