Selangor River is famous among tourists and locals for enjoyable water rafting. In 1990s it has gained reputation to have reached the level of Olympic standards kayak sports. Just one hour drive from the capital KL(Kuala Lumpur), Selangor River continually provides great wild whitewater ride to many outdoors fanatics until at present.
During the late 1990s until the year 2003, the construction of Selangor Dam to supply water to Kuala Lumpur has relocated the tribes who lived in the forest nearby the river and put a stop to rafting. Visitors started to diminish as well as the economic conditions and ecology in that place.
But during 2005, kayaking and whitewater rafting has been restored in that area. Tourists and locals started to flock during weekends to enjoy and relax at Kuala Kubu Baru and view the Selangor Dam.
There are two sections of whitewater action at Selangor. One is the upper river (for grade II-III) which provides the run while the water is low. The other one is the lower river (grade II-IV) which’s the ideal water liver portion to run where spills and thrills has made rafting or kayaking very popular over there.
The entire length of 7 kilometers you can spend your day relaxing with friends. The water here is so fresh and water is cold ideal for great relaxation.
You can also go for day or night activities at Kutu Hill, Chilling, canyoneering or waterfall abseil, Waterfall trek, and camping or teambuilding. Just nearby is the world famous location for bird seeing, Frasers Hill.
All ex-KKB and per pax rafting rates as of March 2010 when water levels are great, at 60-70% chance of rafting starts with RM180 for 5-10pax, RM175 for 11-19pax, and RM170 for 20pax and up. Raft seats consist of 8 persons, 6 visitors and two guides.
You can also arrange for private transport from KL for a rate of around RM700.
Here is the usual itinerary:
0930: Gather at Post Office in KKB and from here guide will lead you to initiate fun training session on rafting safety and technique.
1020: And fun starts form this point! The rafts have to halt before each rapid because of large drops and so that guides can also have a look at the run. Along the way there’ll be a short break for snacks including lunch until 1 or 2 pm.
The fun package includes 1 buffet lunch, safety equipment, rafting equipment, and river guide. You can have your photos on CD for additional RM3. But this depends whether the guide brings a camera or you can bring your camere.
Remember that insurance is not included in the package. You should bring with you extra clothes, strapped sandals or water sports shoes, personal medication, toiletries, sun block lotion, insect repellent, and towel.
The ideal time to visit is during rainy season when dam water overflows providing great opportunity to raft. However, Selangor River is dependent on when water is released from Selangor dam and it is the decision of the authority to control it. But if the water is not suitable, the guide will bring you to another alternative just one hour away.
You can get there by car from Kula Lumpur. You can take the PLUS highway going out at Rawang or take old trunk road towards North to Ipoh. You can use the old highway to cut through Rawang town northwards to Ipoh. You will se a road sign 21 km from Rawang town leading a right turning proceeding to KKB. The turn is just near ahead when you notice on the right side a Chinese Cemetery located after a Shell gas station. Right after the right turning, follow the way until you reach a intersection of traffic light then turn left at the lights and go up hill into Kuala Kubu Baru town and look for the Post Office located on the first or second lane.
You can also get a ride through bus to KKB however there is no definite schedule since drivers have to wait for more passengers before proceeding.
You can also reach there by commuter train. Try to check http://www.ktmb.com.my for the schedule to Rawang or Kuala Kubu Baru including the rates. You will spend around two hours of travel. Guides will then pick you and disembark at station for a rate of RM15 per person.
