One of the internationally best-recognised white water river in Malaysia is the Padas River in Sabah with its Grade 3 and 4 rapids offering some of the most interesting courses for rafters.

The river flows some nine km through the Padas Gorge offering some of the most thrilling rafting adventure in the region. Like many other rivers in Malaysia, the Padas River is too dangerous for rafting during the rainy season.

Rafting trips to Padas River is usually organised by tour operators from Kota Kinabalu.