Rafting

Have you tried rafting in the fast-flowing rivers in Nepal? If not, you are seriously missing out on this place’s thrill!

Adventure tourism has always been a forte of this beautiful country, which is rich in natural elements ranging from high mountains to water bodies that are apt for water sports. You can kayak on a still lake or enjoy the thrill of fast-flowing rivers. Whitewater rafting, cannoning, and kayaking are often on the list of travelers who come to Nepal for fun and adventure.

Being the second most prosperous country regarding water resources, river tourism is a major attraction. But this wasn’t always a thing until the establishment of commercial rafting companies in 1976. Currently, more than a dozen rafting companies operate rafting and all other water activities around different regions of the country.

Popular Rafting Destinations in Nepal

As we know, Nepal has multiple rivers, each of which is suitable for rafting and related water sports. Let’s take a look at a few of them:

Trishuli River

Just a few hours’ ride away from Kathmandu, Trishuli River has long been a popular rafting for many. Along with experiencing the adventurous white-water rafting, you can also enjoy the sceneries around and en route to your destination.

Besides, you can easily access major tourist destinations like Pokhara and Chitwan from this location. You can also combine it with thrilling activities like jungle safaris, village walks, trekking, or motorbiking.

Kali Gandaki River

Among all the water sports destinations, many consider the Kaligandaki River Rafting the best. It offers you an option to paddle along the 60-kilometer-long river and strong river currents to give you the thrill of white-water rafting.

The best thing about Kali Gandaki River rafting is the spectacular views of the surrounding mountain ranges. You will be able to catch a glimpse of the Annapurna ranges and Mount Dhaulagiri. Camping by the sandy river beach, nearby traditional villages, waterfalls, and suspension bridges are other attractions of this location.

Bhotekoshi River

If you want to experience the real thrill of white-water rafting, there’s no better option than Bhotekoshi River. In fact, it is one of the steepest river rafting in Nepal and has a constantly fast-flowing river current to add to this thrill. However, the experience isn’t just limited to the expert in adventurers.

There are a few spots with calm water and controlled flow to suit the pace of beginners. To be precise, the rafting in this river can go up to 4 rapid levels. Apart from rafting, the place is best fitted for bungee jumping, tented camping, and other thrilling activities.

Sun Koshi River

Having crystal clear water and gigantic river waves, Sun Koshi River is also one of the more looked-up destinations for white water river rafting. Since the rapids on this river are predictable despite being rapid, rafting in this river is fit for both beginners and expert adventurers.

It is also a good location for those who have beautiful scenery away from the hustle of human settlement. Since it is one of the longest rafting trips in Nepal, you can plan a longer trip with an itinerary that includes an excursion to nearby attractions.

Marshyangdi River

Whether you want to go kayaking or surf along the white-water rapids, the Marshyangdi River, raging down the Annapurna, is the best choice. The river has a continuous rapid of levels 4 and 5 and also passes through narrow gorges and canyons to give you an unforgettable, thrilling experience.

You can also explore the Manang Valley while on this adventurous trip.

Things to Keep in Mind While Rafting in Nepal

There is no doubt that adventure activities such as rafting are packed with unlimited fun and thrill for a lifetime. However, it is necessary to be aware of certain things while on the route:

Put on a Correct Attire

You will most likely want to wear a bikini or shorts since you will get soaked in water while rafting. But don’t make this mistake!

To prevent scratching yourself, it is better to wear full-coverage clothes that can dry easily. Cotton clothes and body suits are the best attire for any sort of water activity.

Always Wear Your Life Jacket and Helmet

No matter how experienced an adventurer you are, safety must always be your prime concern. This is also true of rafting!

You need to wear a life jacket to prevent from drowning just in case you get into an accident. Make sure to wear a helmet as well.

Never Attempt to Raft Alone

Rivers in Nepal are quite unpredictable, which means the current might change suddenly, making navigation challenging. Since most rivers have strong currents, rafting alone can be quite risky in such a scenario.

It is always better to raft as a group and with a guide.

Follow the Proper Instructions

Whether you are an expert or a beginner, nobody knows a river than a guide who has been instructing there for a while. Thus, while on the adventure, listen to the guidelines and follow the instructions as guided.

Know When to Go

Despite the abundance of river bodies suitable for the sport, not all are suitable for the adventure of rafting. During the monsoon season, water levels rise multiple times above normal, making it unsafe to be near the rivers.

The time between September and December is best for enjoying the thrill of the water bodies. Summer is also a good time to consider safety, but the water current isn’t suitable for whitewater rafting during this time.

Put Your Safety First

Whenever you are out in the water, make your safety a priority. Follow all the rules and guidelines and put on safety gear. In case of accidents or emergencies, save yourself first and rescue other people later.

Just in case you get into a troublesome situation, do not hesitate to help.