Karnali River Rafting

The Karnali river rafting is one of the most popular rafting adventures in the Himalayas, situated in a far western part of Nepal. Mount Kailash in Tibet, the source of the Karnali is the longest river in Nepal. It’s about 1,080 km flows from north to south through deep gorges to the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, where it meets the Ganga.

There are many best rivers in Nepal for rafting excursions but comparing others, Karnali is the top river for rafting in Nepal. Rafting at Karnali is open for all months except monsoon but the very best time to run this river is mid October through to the end of November, followed by April to June. In October, the river’s water volume will be high after the monsoon rains making this a wild ride through Mountainous rapids.

Moreover, rafting along the Karnali River immerses you in the heart of the Terai region, offering both thrill and natural beauty. Karnali River rafting adventure begins at Karalighat/Sauli, following a scenic drive after Nepalgunj airport. Similarly, it concludes at Chisapani village, located near an iconic Karnali Bridge.

You may extend this journey with extra days at an add on cost, making the experience even more rewarding. Many adventurers choose to complement their rafting trip with a wildlife safari in the popular Bardiya National Park, creating a perfect blend of river excitement and jungle exploration.

In addition, the exhilarating Class III to challenging Class IV+ rapids make the ride truly unforgettable. Combining the journey with fishing or a jungle safari adds another layer of adventure. You’ll have a remarkable experience is available throughout the year, except during the monsoon season.

The best Karnali Rafting tour package itinerary details

Take a morning flight to Nepalgunja airport about 365 kilometers (227 miles) far away from Kathamndu and takes about one hour flight. Just after landing, drive with private JEEP /CAR via Surkhet–Dailekh road to Sauli passing beautiful villages, mountains, and hills. Surkhet is the regional headquarters in the Midwest region of Nepal. Stay overnight at the campsite.

Your Karnali River rafting adventure sets off from Sauli, the official starting point, and flows toward a beautiful riverside campsite. Along the way, you’ll paddle through thrilling Class III to IV rapids that keep the adrenaline high while still allowing moments to admire the pristine scenery.

Towering cliffs, lush forests, and untouched landscapes surround the river, giving you a sense of true wilderness. As the day winds down, the journey ends at a serene campsite by the riverside, where the sound of the flowing Karnali creates the perfect backdrop for rest and reflection.

On a second day, you’ll spend a full day navigating the mighty Karnali with even bigger Class IV–V rapids that promise nonstop excitement and challenge. It has a powerful waves and technical sections test your paddling skills while rewarding you with breathtaking scenery along the remote river corridor. As evening falls, you’ll relax at a riverside campsite, enjoying the tranquility of the wilderness after an adrenaline-filled day.

Experience the thrill of rafting through Karnali’s remote jungle gorges like a God house, where towering cliffs and dense forests create a wild, untouched landscape. Navigate the river’s twists and turns while spotting rare wildlife along the banks, adding a sense of discovery to your adventure. As the day ends, unwind at a serene sandy beach campsite, listening to the gentle flow of the river under the open sky.

Enjoy a dynamic rafting experience along the Karnali River, where thrilling rapids alternate with calm, gentle stretches that allow you to fully soak in the surroundings. These peaceful sections provide ideal opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, from birds to riverbank animals, set against the backdrop of untouched forests. Combination of this unique adventure and nature makes each moment on the river truly unforgettable.

Conclude your rafting journey as you glide toward the stunning confluence of the Karnali and Bheri rivers, a picturesque meeting point of two mighty waterways. Merging the currents create a dramatic and scenic finale to your expedition, perfect for capturing memorable moments. Your last night is spent at a riverside campsite, where you can relax under the stars and reflect on the thrilling adventure that brought you here.

Your Karnali River rafting adventure today concludes as you reach Chisapani village near the iconic Karnali Bridge. It presents a final chance to enjoy the river’s scenic beauty. After a final stretch of gentle rapids and tranquil waters, you’ll pause for a riverside lunch, soaking in the serene surroundings.

Following lunch, you’ll embark on a road journey back to Nepalgunj Airport, reflecting on the thrilling experiences and breathtaking landscapes of the expedition. From Nepalgunj, you’ll catch a midday or evening flight back to Kathmandu, marking the end of an unforgettable wilderness adventure. This final leg provides a perfect transition from the raw beauty of Karnali to the comfort of the city.

Alternatively, tourists can enhance their journey by extending the trip to include a thrilling safari in Bardia National Park or simply return to Kathmandu. Exploring this park provides an unforgettable adventure, with opportunities to spot elusive Royal Bengal Tiger, and experience pristine wilderness up close. This extension perfectly complements the rafting expedition, adding another layer of excitement and natural beauty to the trip.

Adventure Karnali River Rafting tour highlights

Departure & Return Departure Point:

Have in mind that we pick up all the travelers from inside the ring road such as your location in Thamel, Lazimpat, Darbar Marg, etc.

What To Expect on Rafting

This is all about Karnali river rafting adventure multiple day tours in Nepal that go over 6 nights 7 days. See the birds and feel the thrilling adventure of rafting. Experience staying overnight in a tent with a super delicious dinner together campfire.

Additional Information (TIPS AND TRICKS)

Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
A maximum of 10 people per booking in a group
Travelers with back pain, pregnant, and very old travelers are not suggested.
It’s a private/shared rafting tour activity.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 30 days before this trip departure for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 30 days before the start time will not be refunded. Please note that cut off times are based on the local time of the experience.

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