northern India expedition

Explore the Thrilling World of Whitewater Kayaking with Adrian Mattern

Whitewater kayaking enthusiast Adrian Mattern is not just pushing the boundaries with his daring expeditions and first descents; he's transforming the sport with every paddle stroke. On his recent kayaking adventure in India, Mattern managed to successfully blend exhilarating challenges with breathtaking explorations, showcasing why India is a premier destination for kayaking enthusiasts.

Unforgettable Kayaking Expeditions in India's Remote Rivers

During his latest trip to India, Adrian participated in the Megha Kayak Festival on the Umtrew River in Meghalaya, a perfect kickoff for a month of groundbreaking adventures. The journey continued in Arunachal Pradesh, one of India's most secluded and thrilling regions for whitewater kayaking. Along with his crew, Adrian embarked on pioneering descents of uncharted rivers, confirming that in India, "nothing is certain, but everything is possible."

Kayaking in Meghalaya: Combining Sport with Exploration

In Meghalaya, Adrian's objective was clear: to kayak as much as possible and explore new rivers. The team tackled the Kopilli River, facing threats from potential dam constructions, and the renowned Kynshi River, where Adrian revisited a challenging six-meter waterfall that had previously bested him. This return was not just a rematch but a conquering of past fears, ending with a triumphant and peaceful reconciliation with the challenging waters.

First Descents on the Umiam River

The highlight of the Meghalaya leg was the first descent of the Umiam River, a venture made possible by coordinates provided by British kayakers Joe and Stan Rea-Dickens. Adrian and his team meticulously prepared, assessing key river sections and water levels to ensure a safe and exciting expedition. This meticulous planning paid off, allowing them to navigate the river with minimal portaging, enjoying a perfect mix of rapids, waterfalls, and slides.

Adventurous Kayaking in Arunachal Pradesh

The adventure intensified in Arunachal Pradesh, where the monsoon season had swollen the rivers to record levels. This unusual water volume opened up tributaries of the Brahmaputra River that are usually dry, setting the stage for several multi-day first descents through isolated valleys surrounded by alpine jungles. The simplicity of their daily routine—paddle, eat, camp, sleep, repeat—underscored the raw and exhilarating experience of expedition kayaking.

Capturing the Essence of Whitewater Kayaking

Adrian Mattern's expeditions are more than just sports; they are a profound journey into the capabilities of human spirit and endurance. Each stroke in these remote waters isn’t just about navigating through the wild—it’s about embracing and overcoming the challenges that nature throws, proving time and again that the spirit of adventure truly knows no bounds.

Join Adrian on his next kayaking adventure and discover why whitewater kayaking is an unparalleled pursuit for those seeking the ultimate adrenaline rush and deep connection with nature.