Best time
October to May is the rafting season, with the best rapids from October to January when the dam releases are strong. June to September is the monsoon, when rafting stops but the forest and the waterfalls are at their fullest.
- October to January, 20 to 32°C: The best rafting months, when the dam releases keep the rapids strong.
- February to May, 22 to 38°C: Rafting continues on a gentler river; hot by afternoon but the camps stay shaded.
- June to September, 20 to 30°C: Monsoon: rafting stops, the forest is at its greenest and the falls are full.
What to pack
Quick-dry clothes and a change for after the rafting, sandals that stay on in water, insect repellent for the jungle stays, and a torch. Nights at the camps are cooler than the day suggests.
Kochi to Dandeli
Kochi to Dandeli is about 700 km, a long drive up the coast. The practical way is a flight to Goa or Hubballi and a two to three hour drive; we quote the pick-up from either airport.