Ketahun River Rafting

Evolution of Tourism: From Transportation Route to Prime Destination

Historically, the Ketahun River played a vital role for the Rejang people in Lebong. In the past, this river was the main transportation route for carrying agricultural products like coffee and gold from the interior to the coast. However, with the development of land infrastructure, the river's function began to shift.

The transformation of the Ketahun River into a rafting tourism destination seriously began in the early 2010s. The Lebong Regency government, along with local nature lovers' communities, started mapping potential rapids. Today, Ketahun River Rafting has evolved from a mere hobby for local communities into a leading tourist attraction capable of drawing national and international tourists, and it frequently hosts regional rafting championships.

Recreational Experience and Main Activities

The main attraction of this place is, of course, the sensation of navigating its rapids. The Ketahun River has unique characteristics with rapids classified from Grade II to Grade IV, making it suitable for both beginners and professionals.

1. White-Water Rafting: Tourists will be taken on a route approximately 12 to 15 kilometers long. The starting point usually begins from Talang Ratu Village, Rimbo Pengadang District. Along the journey, participants will encounter rapids with unique names derived from local wisdom, which demand solid teamwork to maintain the boat's balance.

2. River Tubing: For those seeking a more personal and relaxed experience, river tubing is available in calmer sections of the river. Using modified inner tubes, visitors can float with the current while enjoying the chirping of birds on tree branches.

3. Wildlife and Nature Observation: While resting between rafting sections, visitors can often spot wildlife such as brahminy kites, long-tailed macaques, and if lucky, tracks of endemic Sumatran fauna along the riverbanks within the TNKS area.

Facilities and Visitor Comfort

The management of Ketahun River Rafting has provided adequate facilities to ensure visitor comfort and safety:

• International Standard Equipment: Each tour package includes protective helmets, life jackets (PFDs), paddles, and high-quality inflatable rafts.
• Professional Guides (Skippers): Each raft is accompanied by certified guides who understand the river's contours and rescue procedures.
• Basecamp and Changing Rooms: Areas for changing clothes, bathrooms, and secure storage facilities are available.
• Local Transportation: Pick-up services from the finish point back to the starting point are usually included in the tour package.
• Local Cuisine: After a tiring rafting session, visitors are typically served Lebong's signature dishes like Lema (fermented young bamboo) and authentic Lebong coffee served by the riverside.

Family-Friendly Destination

Although synonymous with extreme sports, Ketahun River Rafting still has a family-friendly side. The management provides a special "Family Rafting" package that chooses routes with calmer rapids (Grade I-II). This route is safe for children over 7 years old with strict supervision. This activity is very effective in building children's courage and strengthening family bonds through teamwork while paddling. In some shallow, calm sections of the river, families can stop for a swim or simply play in the water along the rocky banks.

Cultural Significance and Community Role

The Ketahun River is not just a tourist object; it is a symbol of Lebong's community identity. For the local residents, this river is considered a gift from God that must be preserved in its purity. The existence of rafting tourism directly promotes the community's environmental awareness. Villagers are now actively keeping the river clean from plastic waste because they realize that a clean river is a sustainable economic asset.

Culturally, the community often holds thanksgiving rituals by the river at certain times, which tourists can sometimes witness. The involvement of local youth as rafting guides has also opened up new employment opportunities and reduced the rate of urbanization in Lebong Regency.

Visitor Information and Best Time to Visit

To get the maximum experience at Ketahun River Rafting, here are some important tips:

• Best Time to Visit: Visits are highly recommended during the dry season or transition period (April to October). During this time, water levels tend to be stable and the water color is clearer. During the peak of the rainy season, water levels can rise drastically, sometimes leading to the closure of rafting activities for safety reasons.
• How to Get There: From Bengkulu City, the land journey to Lebong Regency takes approximately 3 to 4 hours. This journey itself is a visual treat as it passes through winding roads with views of protected forests and tea plantations in the Kabawetan area (if taking a specific route).
• Personal Preparation: Bring a change of clothes, sunscreen, and water shoes (mountain sandals). Ensure your physical condition is optimal.
• Booking: It is highly recommended to make a reservation at least 3 days before arrival, especially on weekends or national holidays, as the availability of boats and guides is limited.

Ketahun River Rafting is a perfect blend of physical adventure and spiritual tranquility. Here, the roar of water hitting rocks blends with the silence of the forest, creating unforgettable recreational memories in the heart of Sumatra Island. For anyone visiting Bengkulu, conquering the Ketahun rapids is a must to complete the experience of exploring the Land of Rafflesia.