Gongabu, Kathmandu, Nepal
Earth Matter Treks & Expedition Nepal
  • Destination

    Nepal

  • Regions

    Eastern region of Nepal

  • Activity

    Rafting

  • Accomodation

    Hotel/Lodge

  • Transportation

    Drive

  • Duration

    8-10 Days

  • Trip Grade

    Moderate/Challenging

  • Altitude

    270 kilometers (170 miles)

  • Best Season

    Post-monsoon season (September to November) and the pre-monsoon season (March to May)

  • Start/End Point

    Dolalghat-chatara

Destination Region Activity Accomodation Transportation
Nepal Eastern region of Nepal Rafting Hotel/Lodge Drive
Duration Trip Grade Altitude Best Season Start/End Point
8-10 Days Moderate/Challenging 270 kilometers (170 miles) Post-monsoon season (September to November) and the pre-monsoon season (March to May) Dolalghat-chatara

Trip Overview

Rafting on the Sunkoshi River in Nepal is a thrilling adventure that takes you through some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country. The Sunkoshi is known for its challenging rapids, including Class III to Class V rapids. Some of the famous rapids include Meat Grinder, High Anxiety, and Jaws. The river offers a mix of moderate to challenging sections, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters. However, some sections can be quite technical and require skillful maneuvering.

Trip Highlights

  • Scenic Beauty: The Sunkoshi River flows through stunning landscapes, including remote villages, terraced fields, and dense forests. The journey offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan foothills.
  • Cultural Experience: Rafting on the Sunkoshi provides an opportunity to experience the local culture and lifestyle of the Nepali people. You'll pass by traditional villages and can interact with the locals.
  • Wildlife: The river and its surroundings are home to diverse wildlife, including various species of birds and animals.
  • Rapids: The Sunkoshi is known for its challenging rapids, making it an exciting adventure for experienced rafters. Some well-known rapids include Meat Grinder, High Anxiety, and Jaws.

Itinerary

  • Depart from Kathmandu early in the morning and drive to Dolalghat, the starting point of the rafting journey.
  • Arrive at Dolalghat, have breakfast, and meet your rafting team and guides.
  • Receive a safety briefing and instructions on rafting techniques.
  • Start rafting on the Sunkoshi River.
  • Raft for a few hours and set up camp on the riverbank for the night.

  • Each day involves rafting down the river, navigating through rapids and enjoying the scenic views.
  • Stop for lunch at a scenic spot along the river.
  • Continue rafting in the afternoon and set up camp at a new riverside location each night.
  • Evenings are spent around the campfire, enjoying meals and relaxing.

  • Raft for a few hours in the morning, enjoying the final stretches of the river.
  • Reach the take-out point at Chatara.
  • Pack up and transfer to a vehicle for the journey back to Kathmandu.
  • Arrive in Kathmandu in the evening, marking the end of the rafting trip.

Cost Inclusion/Exclusion

Cost Inclusion

  • Rafting Equipment: The cost usually covers the rental of rafts, paddles, helmets, life jackets, and safety gear.
  • Meals: Most packages include meals during the rafting trip, starting from breakfast on the first day to lunch on the last day.
  • Accommodation: Camping accommodation along the riverbanks, including tents and basic facilities.
  • Guides and Staff: The services of experienced rafting guides and support staff are included.
  • Transportation: Transportation from Kathmandu to the starting point of the rafting trip and back to Kathmandu at the end of the trip is typically included.
  • Permits and Fees: The cost usually covers any necessary permits and entry fees for the rafting route.

Cost Exclusion

  • Personal Expenses: Any personal expenses such as souvenirs, snacks, or drinks not included in the meals provided.
  • Travel Insurance: It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers adventure activities like rafting, which is usually not included in the trip cost.
  • Tips: Tips for guides and staff are not usually included in the trip cost but are appreciated.
  • Additional Activities: Any optional activities or excursions not included in the standard itinerary may cost extra.
  • Extra Services: Additional services such as massages, laundry, or extra meals not included in the standard package.