20 Mar 2023 12 min to read
The natural beauty of Nepal tempts everyone. Many visit Nepal for mountain expeditions or trekking but there are plenty of other activities to carry out for. Nepal is abundant in river resources. Hence, Nepal is also famous for whitewater river rafting. An ideal destination for river rafting with choices to do rafting in rivers from east to west. There are many rivers for rafting in Nepal but here we discuss only 6 adventurous river rafting in Nepal.
River rafting in Nepal is undoubtedly an adrenaline rush experience. It offers a great thrilling experience for all adventure enthusiasts. While river rafting, enjoy an exhilarating ride down some of the most challenging rapids. In the course of river rafting, get mesmerized by the natural beauty, diverse flora and fauna, beautiful landscapes, and snow-covered mountains in the vicinity.
River rafting in Nepal offers a unique experience in both slow-paced and fast-paced rivers with great rapids that are intense. There is also an option for multi-day river rafting expeditions. Not only river rafting but kayaking is also there. Some famous and adventurous rivers for rafting in Nepal are Trishuli, Bhotekoshi, Sunkoshi, Tamur, Kaligandaki, and Karnali. Experienced guides lead this river rafting and ensure a safe and memorable trip.
Bhotekoshi River Rafting
Bhotekoshi river rafting is an adventurous-filled rafting experience that is just 3 hours away from Kathmandu. An ideal destination for all rafting lovers. The river offers grade III-IV+ rapids which is a thrilling experience. The river is deep, and steep with high gorges.
Bhotekoshi River rafting trips last for two days, with the option to extend the trip to include a trek or a visit to the nearby Bhote Koshi bungee jumping site. The river flows through narrow gorges, stunning landscapes, and remote villages, offering a unique perspective of Nepal’s natural beauty and culture.
Distance: 20 km
Put-In Point: Lamosanghu
Put-Out Point: Dolalghat
Rapid Grade: III & IV+
Raft Duration: 2 days
Trishuli River Rafting
Trishuli is one of the most popular and crowded among our 6 adventurous river rafting in Nepal. For first-time rafters, Trishuli is an ideal destination for rafting. The river is gentle with grade II and III rapids.
While rafting, enjoy the picturesque natural beauty of landscapes, various gorges, and lovely terraces & farmlands. Stay the night at the riverside camp. Make the time more memorable by eating, drinking, dancing, and singing. It is perfect for those looking for a more leisurely experience.
Distance: 60 km
Put-In Point: Charaudi
Put-Out Point: Mugling
Rapid Grade: III
Raft Duration: 2 days
Tamur River Rafting
Tamur river is in a remote region compared to Trishuli & Bhotekoshi. But, it offers a great thrilling experience. The river flows through dense forests, deep gorges, and traditional villages This Tamur river is a multi-day river rafting experience. It offers a great adrenaline experience with a rapid of grade IV and V-.
This Tamur rafting is a great roller coaster ride with more than 100 rapids. Its steep canyon walls, its constricted channel between wild, looming cliffs, its mysterious, unending gorges, and its mighty rapids leading from one to the other add up to a magnificent adrenaline-filled experience of your life.
Tamur River rafting trips typically last for six days. You can combine the trip with a Kanchenjunga trek as well. It offers a unique opportunity to explore Nepal’s unspoiled wilderness and cultural heritage.
Distance: 135 km
Put-In Point: Dovan
Put-Out Point: Chatara
Rapid Grade: IV & V-
Raft Duration: 6 days
Karnali River Rafting
Karnali is the longest river in Nepal. This Karnali river rafting is a multi-day river rafting with grade V rapids. It is a great combination of adventure and exploration of nature. Explore Nepal’s natural beauty and cultural diversity.
During this rafting, witness long stretches of virgin wilderness, lush forests, serpentine gorges, thundering waterfalls, and steep canyons. The river flows through pristine forests, remote villages, and breathtaking landscapes. Karnali River rafting trips last for seven days. You can extend the trip and combine it with other treks in that region.
Distance: 180km
Put-In Point: Sauli
Put-Out Point: Chisapani Bridge
Rapid Grade: V
Raft Duration: 7 days
Sunkoshi River Rafting
Sunkoshi River is one of the longest and most scenic rivers in Nepal, offering a multi-day rafting experience that combines adventure and cultural immersion. The river is located in the central part of Nepal, near the border with Tibet, and offers Grade III-IV rapids, making it ideal for experienced rafters looking for a challenging and scenic trip.
The broad, fertile river valleys, deep gorges, steep, looming cliffs, dense forests, and beautiful villages add excitement during the rafting. There is nothing here to spoil your craving for the ultimate water experience. You will have the first-hand experience of a large swathe of Nepal’s natural beauty and culture. And also experience ethnic diversity in the course of the journey during the Sunkoshi rafting which lasts for 9 days.
Distance: 235 km
Put-In Point: Tarang Gaon
Put-Out Point: Chhatara
Rapid Grade: IV & V
Raft Duration: 9 days
Kaligandaki River Rafting
Kaligandaki river rafting is not only famous for rafting but for kayaking as well. This multi-day rafting is filled with adventure. The rapid grades III-IV with spectacular scenery while rafting is magical. This river rafting is suitable for both novice and experienced rafters.
The thick foliage in the surrounding cliffs, temples, and shrines in every confluence, and a beautiful village combination offer diverse experiences. For the rafters and kayakers, the biodiversity range during the three-day trip starts at Nayapul and ends at Mirme.
Distance: 55 km
Put-In Point: Nayapul
Put-Out Point: Mirme
Rapid Grade: III-IV
Raft Duration: 3 days
Best Time for River Rafting in Nepal
It is possible to do river rafting during all seasons in Nepal. But, considering the safety, weather, and overall factors the best time for river rafting in Nepal are Spring (mid-Mar-Jun) and Autumn (mid-Sep-early Dec) seasons.
During these seasons, the weather is clear, bright, dry, and warm. Hence, it is ideal for river rafting. The winter season (Dec-Feb) is also good for river rafting in some rivers like Trishuli. But, the water is chilling cold. So, with proper planning one can try river rafting in Trishuli.
During the monsoon season (Jun-Jul), it is very adventurous but at the same time, it is challenging due to high rapids. Only experienced adventurers try out river rafting during this season. We recommend you consult the experts and make a proper plan if you plan to river rafting during this season. Always keep up-to-date with guides and rafting companies for information on weather and river conditions.
Classification of River Rafting Difficulty Grades in Nepal
Grade I: No obstacles as the river current is small and slow
Grade II & III: Rapids are medium-sized, small obstacles as rivers are fast moving
Grade IV: Great teamwork for strong paddling requires as whitewater sections are continuous and have long waves
Grade V: Suitable for experienced rafters as the river current is powerful and has big holes in the rivers
Grade VI: It is impossible to do rafting in such grade rivers
Things in Consideration for river rafting in Nepal
River rafting in Nepal is adventurous. But, still, some things need to be in consideration for river rafting in Nepal. Below are some points to keep in mind before participating in river rafting in Nepal:
Select a trustworthy rafting company
For a better and safe rafting experience, select a trustworthy rafting company. There are uncountable rafting agencies in Nepal. Make sure to select a rafting company that has a good safety record, experienced teams, and safe & well-preserved equipment.
Select the right rafting river
There are several rivers for rafting in Nepal. All rafting rivers offer various rapid grades. Before rafting, do proper research and select the right rafting river that fits your skill level.
Rafting Equipment
Check all the rafting equipment carefully. Make sure all provided equipment is well-maintained and in good condition. Some rafting equipment is helmets, life jackets, wetsuits, and plastic paddles. Also, carefully check for the condition of the rafting boat.
Weather conditions
Select the right month for river rafting in Nepal. Before going river rafting, check the weather conditions. As per the weather condition, the rapid of the river may fluctuate. So, only do rafting under the proper weather conditions.
Health Condition
Rafting is highly demanding. Hence, one must be in good health condition both mentally and physically. Consult a doctor and do some health check-ups if necessary. It is a plus point if you know how to swim.
Pack appropriate clothes
For rafting, pack appropriate clothes that fit best with the weather and for the river. If necessary pack a swimsuit or water-protecting clothes. Also, pack a towel, clothes for change after rafting, and a slipper and shoes.
Instruction of the Guide/Instructor
After considering all things for rafting, now carefully follow the instruction of the guide. Listen carefully and make sure to keep yourself safe while enjoying the rafting. If any doubts, don’t hesitate to ask the instructor. Ask again and again until all doubts are clear.
Be Brave and Daring
Rafting is fun but thrilling at the same time. Don’t panic while rafting. Be brave and daring. Inform the instructor in advance if you have any health issues or don’t know how to swim. Have faith in yourself as well as the safety provided by the instructor and rafting company.
Respect the culture and the environment
If you are in Nepal for rafting, it is the best idea to respect the culture and the environment of the place you are traveling. While river rafting in Nepal, in the vicinity it takes you through the amazing natural environment. The lush green forest, small villages, and picturesque beauty surrounded by snow-covered mountains add magic while rafting. So, respect the culture of the people you meet and do proper waste management for a clean environment of the surroundings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does it cost for river rafting in Nepal?
There is no fixed cost for river rafting in Nepal. It is because there are many rafting rivers with different rapid grades. And due to this, the cost varies. Other costs may vary depending on the group size, rafting duration, accommodation, and mode of transport to reach the rafting destinations.
Can we do river rafting in Nepal during the monsoon season?
The answer is Yes as well as No. The monsoon season here in Nepal is from June-July. During monsoon season, the river rapid is high and in most of the rivers, it is riskier to do rafting. In some rafting rivers like Trishuli during the monsoon season, you can do river rafting. But before that, plan carefully and consult with a rafting company and listen to the guide’s instructions carefully. The other rafting rivers like Kaligandaki, Sunkoshi, Bhotekoshi, etc. are considered highly riskier. Still, you can find some daring people performing river rafting. You can also do river rafting in other rivers of Nepal but under strict supervision and guidelines, and with proper planning. Consider your safety first.
How long does it take for river rafting in Nepal?
There is no exact time duration for river rafting in Nepal. Some river rafting takes less than a week and some may take more than a week. It is due to the long time to reach the rafting distance and the start and end point of the river distance is also long. So, some river rafting in Nepal takes 2-3 days to complete and some may take 7-9 days to complete.
Which rivers are popular for river rafting in Nepal?
Mainly Bhoteskoshi, Sunkoshi, Kaligandaki, Karnali, Tamor, Trishuli, Marshyangdi, Upper Seti, and Bheri rivers are popular for rafting in Nepal.
What is the difficulty grade of river rafting in Nepal?
The maximum difficulty grade of river rafting in Nepal is 5. The river flow is high, rapid, and powerful. In some places, there are long waves and big holes in the river which is challenging and thrilling at the same time.
What items are we provided for rafting?
First of all, choose a trustworthy and experienced rafting company with good safety records. Many rafting companies provide you with safety helmets, lifejackets, wetsuits, plastic paddles, standard self-bailing rafts, and a first-aid kit. A good accommodation with tents or sleeping bags or a small lodge for a night stay. During the night stay, they provide you with healthy and hygienic foods.
What items should we bring for river rafting in Nepal?
Pack appropriate clothes like shorts, a T-shirt, swimwear, comfortable slipper, warm or light clothes for the night’s stay, a towel, a personal hygienic kit, and a camera. Besides this, bring the items that are essential for you.
Is it safe to do river rafting in Nepal?
Yes, it is safe to do river rafting in Nepal. Book with a reliable rafting company as they have a licensed guide with years of experience. Also, they all are well-trained in medical treatment like CPR, first-aid treatment, and advanced river rescue practices.
What are the facilities for accommodation, meals, and transportation during river rafting in Nepal?
During river rafting in Nepal, accommodations are mostly tented camps or lodges. For meals, you get breakfast and dinner. As a means of transportation, there is a facility for public or private vehicles to get to the rafting destination.
