Thamel Gahiti, Kathmandu, Nepal
Earth Matter Treks & Expedition Nepal
  • Destination

    Nepal

  • Regions

    Between the mountain ranges of Dhaulagiri in Nepal and Nanda Devi in Uttarakhand.

  • Activity

    Rafting

  • Accomodation

    Hotel/Lodge

  • Transportation

    Flight/Drive

  • Duration

    10 Days

  • Trip Grade

    Class III (Intermediate)

  • Altitude

    Approximately 1,400 meters (4,600 feet) above sea level

  • Best Season

    October to December and from March to June.

  • Start/End Point

    Sauli (A remote village in the far western region of Nepal)

Destination Region Activity Accomodation Transportation
Nepal Between the mountain ranges of Dhaulagiri in Nepal and Nanda Devi in Uttarakhand. Rafting Hotel/Lodge Flight/Drive
Duration Trip Grade Altitude Best Season Start/End Point
10 Days Class III (Intermediate) Approximately 1,400 meters (4,600 feet) above sea level October to December and from March to June. Sauli (A remote village in the far western region of Nepal)

Trip Overview

Rafting on the Karnali River in Nepal is an exceptional experience, known for its stunning scenery and challenging rapids. The Karnali River is the longest river in Nepal, originating from the Tibetan Plateau and flowing through the remote and rugged landscapes of the western part of the country.

Trip Highlights

  • Scenic Beauty: The Karnali River flows through some of the most picturesque and untouched regions of Nepal. Rafters can enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas, dense forests, and traditional villages along the way.
  • Rapids: The river features a mix of Class III to Class V rapids, making it suitable for experienced rafters looking for an adrenaline rush. The rapids are powerful and provide an exhilarating experience.
  • Wildlife: The Karnali region is rich in wildlife, including various species of birds, monkeys, and even the elusive Bengal tiger. Rafters often spot wildlife along the riverbanks.
  • Cultural Experience: The journey often includes visits to remote villages, offering a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the local Tharu and Magar communities.
  • Multi-day Expedition: Rafting trips on the Karnali River typically last from 7 to 10 days, covering around 180 kilometers (112 miles) of river. These expeditions include camping on riverbanks, providing a complete wilderness adventure.

Itinerary

  • Activities: Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel.
  • Highlights: Explore Kathmandu, visit local markets, and prepare for the trip.
  • Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu.

  • Activities: Take a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a town in western Nepal.
  • Highlights: Relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.
  • Overnight: Hotel in Nepalgunj.

  • Activities: Drive from Nepalgunj to Sauli, the starting point of the rafting trip.
  • Highlights: Scenic drive through the countryside, meet your rafting team, and receive a safety briefing.
  • Overnight: Riverside camp at Sauli.

  • Activities: Begin rafting on the Karnali River, tackling initial rapids and getting accustomed to the river.
  • Highlights: Encounter your first set of Class III and IV rapids.
  • Overnight: Riverside camp.

  • Activities: Continue rafting, facing more challenging rapids and enjoying the stunning scenery.
  • Highlights: Navigate through notable rapids like "God’s House" and camp on a sandy beach.
  • Overnight: Riverside camp.

  • Activities: Raft through more intense rapids, take breaks for swimming and relaxing.
  • Highlights: Experience the thrill of Class IV and V rapids.
  • Overnight: Riverside camp.

  • Activities: Continue your journey down the river, enjoying both the adrenaline rush and the tranquility of the surroundings.
  • Highlights: Explore nearby villages and interact with local communities.
  • Overnight: Riverside camp.

  • Activities: Raft through some of the most scenic and remote parts of the river.
  • Highlights: Spot wildlife along the riverbanks and enjoy the serene environment.
  • Overnight: Riverside camp.

  • Activities: Finish the final leg of the rafting trip, reaching Chisapani.
  • Highlights: Celebrate the completion of the rafting adventure, pack up gear.
  • Overnight: Riverside camp or lodge in Chisapani.

  • Activities: Drive from Chisapani to Nepalgunj and take a flight back to Kathmandu.
  • Highlights: Relax and reflect on the rafting experience.
  • Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu.

  • Activities: Transfer to the airport for your departure.
  • Highlights: Last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Kathmandu if time permits.

Cost Inclusion/Exclusion

Cost Inclusion

  • Domestic flights (e.g., Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and return). Ground transportation (e.g., from Nepalgunj to Sauli and from Chisapani back to Nepalgunj).
  • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj (typically 2-3 star hotels).
  • Riverside camping during the rafting expedition (tents, sleeping bags, and mats provided).
  • All meals during the rafting trip (usually includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks).
  • Experienced rafting guides with knowledge of the Karnali River
  • Necessary permits for rafting and camping.
  • Briefings on safety procedures and rafting techniques.

Cost Exclusion

  • Internation Flights: Airfare to and from Nepal.
  • Nepal entry visa fees.
  • Beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) not included in the meals.
  • Personal items such as toiletries, souvenirs, and laundry.
  • Personal travel insurance.