This initial page gives a breakdown of the basics of the main rivers of Nepal. It gives the pro's and
con's of each river and may help you to decide the best river for you. In addition the table below shows
the River, it's highest grade (i.e. that of the hardest rapid) and the usual number of days needed to
run the river. The price is included at the end and is just a guide. Check-out the Websites on the Rafting Operators
page for current departure dates and prices. You can also check the Prices page which has up to date
information on current local departure prices.
Finally remember that river days vary during the
season and depend on whether you are exploring by raft or kayak.....some of the five/six day trips have
been done in three during the post monsoon weeks! Also check-out the disclaimer below.
The Karnali is an absolute gem of a river......travel in remote western Nepal gives a true sense
of adventure; Big volume rapids; Amazing scenery and wildlife; Pleasant trek to river*; Deep river gorges
add to the remoteness.....but......Long journey there and back 20+ hours; not good if time is a factor
(takes 2 days travel Plus river days)
The Sun Kosi takes longer to do than the Karnali, the level of rapids build up steadily as the
trip progresses; 3 hours from Kathmandu; stunning scenery and great rapids lower down. The level is often
described as 95% steady, 4% entertaining, 1% engaging.....but.......it's a long journey back by bus (20
hours); not good if time is a factor - the trip could take 9-10 days with a day and a half added for
travel.
The Kali Gandaki is shorter than the preceding two. It is only 3-4 hours from Pokhara; No warm
up here - straight into big rapids within half an hour of the put-in; Big rapids most days with not too
much flat water; short trip means costs are lower......but.....It can seem to be over all too quickly
- you may want more than 3 days on river;
The Bhote Kosi, to some, is the best for a short burst of pure adrenaline. Close to Kathmandu;
Steep, pool drop rapids, one after another; Short trip keeps costs low; If you can't find a level that
makes you scared just keep going further upstream and I guarantee you will do; Purpose built tented resorts
are appearing offering other activities nearby - Bungee etc. On the downside the commercially run section
is short.
The Seti is a short river journey, ideal for a family float, kayak clinic or as a novice introduction
to river adventures in Nepal. If Run from Damauli it is a 2 day trip, from Dule gouda it is a 3 day trip
and the grade rises considerably to 4+. Lovely warm water due to hot springs, short trip keeps cost down,
ideal as a self sufficient trip for kayakers. On the negative points some rapids are rocky in low water.
The Marsyandi
is truely awesome. Interesting journey by bus, then a short trek,
and then 2 or so days of rapids that are continuous and engaging.
We counted 40+ rapids per day some days! Magnificent mountain scenery
is the icing on the cake for this great river. Not too good for kayakers
who've had no warm up, Class 5+ bus ride to Besishahar will probably
make you ill. This river has recently been affected by a hydroelectric
scheme meaning the 4 day trip is not now possible. Two days of class
boating are still available above the new dam. This river now compares
in grade and length to the Bhote Khosi, except it has the fantastic
backdrop of the Annapurna mountains.
The Trisulican be run on the same day as you leave Kathmandu and the trip can be made to last
4-5 days by running down into the Chitwan national park. It's a good river to warm up on before travelling
elsewhere. It is however heavily run by less experienced agents trying to make a quick buck. In high
levels most of the rapids are washed-out.
The Modi Khola runs out of the Annapurna sanctuary and can be run from Landruk which is on the
trek that goes up to base-camp. It is not commercially rafted as it is too narrow, but would make a great
alternative start to the Kali Gandaki. It is usually run later than other rivers (Nov. onwards)
* The Modi khola is included as a Kayaking river, it is not commercially run by rafting operators.
Tamur section is still being written - email me if you need info.
More Current Prices are on the Prices
page - Click Here.
Disclaimer - The information within these pages cannot ever be 100% accurate. Rivers and rapids
change from year to year. Always check locally for sections of river altered by the monsoon or otherwise.
The author of this site accepts no responsibility for any loss or injury caused to any person as a result
of information or advice from this site or any subsequent e-mail customised itineraries.
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