These people have long considered this place as their own and have made major contributions to preserving the pristinity of the sanctuary.Their life is exemplary to a lifestyle not driven by materialism and technology (not that technology is unwelcome - this blog post would not have been possible without a computer and the internet).
Before tourists can board a raft, they need to reach a rafting base camp.This involves a trek that lasts a few kilometres (wait, what?) through forest glades. While spotting wild animals here is entirely a matter of chance (although remains of unfortunate bison that fell prey to tigers might be a frequent sight), smaller inhabitants of The Periyar Tiger Reserve like butterflies and colourful insects are aplenty- a great way to hone one's macro photography skills!! On arriving at the base camp, tourists make their way onto the bamboo rafts along with forest guides (they are great raconteurs) and armed guards (to protect you from vicious crocodiles in the Periyar -- we're kidding there aren't any). The bamboo rafts then make their way to the catchment area.
 The Periyar Lake, being artificially formed, does not have rapids, so do not expect to experience the pure terror usually associated with white water rafting. Add it to the fact that nobody uses a raft made out of bamboo for white water rafting, unless they fancy swimming the rest of the distance once the raft is wrecked. But Thekkady more than makes up for this lack of adventure with its astounding beauty capable of inspiring one to move lock, stock and barrel into Thekkady and spend the rest of their days appreciating this beauty. Tree stumps that eerily remind one of icebergs are frequently visible throughout the lake. They stand as the last remaining evidence of forest land that was submerged once the lake was created with the construction of the Mullaperiyar dam over a century ago. One could arguably derive a sense of adventure from the prospect of sitting at water level in a bamboo raft with water spilling over into the raft -- there are people who would scurry away at the mere thought of this. But this is perfectly natural and not a cause for concern.
As always Hotel Tigers' Roare is by your side for any kind of assistance that you might require in to go bamboo rafting in Thekkady.