TIMES HONGKONG, TASIKMALAYA – The Ciwulan River has become a popular destination for whitewater sports enthusiasts, especially for packrafting. This river, which originates from the mountains in southeast Garut Regency, including Mount Cikuray, Mount Karacak, and Mount Galunggung, flows for 114 kilometers.

It stretches from the north to the south, eventually emptying into the Indian Ocean at Cipatujah, in the southern coastal area of Tasikmalaya.

The river not only serves as a vital resource for the surrounding ecosystem, but it has also become a haven for adventure seekers. Its clear waters, fed by mountain springs, provide an exhilarating experience for those interested in whitewater sports like rafting and packrafting.

Packrafting, in particular, has seen a rise in popularity since the early 2020s, according to Rianto Wijaya, a seasoned whitewater sportsman and member of KAPPA Cjea Tasikmalaya, a local adventure group.

Packrafting involves using small, lightweight, and easily foldable boats, making it ideal for exploring rivers like the Ciwulan. Its simplicity and practicality have made it a favorite among adventurers.

The activity appeals to a wide range of enthusiasts, including university students from KAMAPALA STIA Tasikmalaya, KAPPA Cjea members, and the Indonesian Riverboarding Association.

The Ciwulan River offers a variety of water conditions, from calm sections to adrenaline-pumping rapids. The best and safest time for packrafting, as Rianto advises, is on sections of the river with grade 1 to 3 rapids.

This range allows participants to enjoy the thrills of the sport while ensuring their safety. Unlike other water sports that may require complex preparation, packrafting stands out due to its convenience. The equipment is so compact that it can be transported on a motorbike, mountain bike, or carried in a backpack to remote river locations.

Beyond its appeal to adventurers, the Ciwulan River is a thriving natural ecosystem. Ai Siti Sukma, a rafting champion from Tasikmalaya, notes that the river’s rich biodiversity and the harmonious sounds of flowing water and bird songs create a serene and peaceful environment, perfect for reconnecting with nature.

As packrafting continues to gain traction, the Ciwulan River is emerging as a premier destination for adventure sports in West Java. This growth in adventure tourism not only brings excitement but also provides economic benefits to the local community through the creation of businesses offering equipment rentals, guiding services, and accommodations.

"Playing packraft while listening to the rushing water mixed with the sound of birds creates a calm and peaceful atmosphere, making the Ciwulan River an ideal place to reconnect with nature,” Ai Siti said during her visit to the destination. 

With its unique natural beauty and the thrill of whitewater sports, the Ciwulan River has the potential to become an iconic adventure destination in Indonesia espeacilly packrafting. (*)