Rafting Information

Rafting information

Nepal is the place that allows you to experience the best rafting on the white water of glacier-fed Himalayan rivers with warm water and beautiful nature all over the place. The rivers that are most frequently rafted and are Trishuli (1-3 days), Seti (2 days), Bhote Koshi (1 day), Kali Gandaki (3 days), Marshyangdi (1-2 days), and Sun Koshi (7-9 days), are quite different from each other in terms of duration, difficulty, and scenic beauty. While spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are generally considered the best seasons, the monsoon season (June-September) can be particularly hazardous. The rivers are categorized according to skill level, ranging from beginner to expert, with rapids graded II to V. Nepal took the first step in commercial rafting in 1976 by fusing adventure with camping on unpolluted beaches, experiencing the local culture in the hinterland, and having the magnificent view of mountains, thus making the country a prime rafting destination.

Safety
We take the safety of our clients very seriously. All our guides are licensed, with many years of experience on the rivers of Nepal. Before going on the water, they will give you a complete safety talk and demonstration of how to deal with any situation that might occur whilst on the river. Before the start of the journey, you will be supplied with and required to wear a helmet and a life jacket. Our guides make the trip fun for you, but at the same time, they don’t take unnecessary risks. Though on some rivers we run high-class rapids, they are all within the limits of our guides. Of course, there are occasions when accidents do happen; at that time, they will provide you with first aid treatment.

The Guide
We offer raft guides who are trained to international standards and have spent several years rowing for leading rafting companies.

The Food
As a member of our guiding team, we take along a cook who prepares for you delicious and healthy meals to keep your tummy well fueled along the trip. Our cook is qualified and knows all the precautions to take when cooking for travelers and ensures a high standard of food hygiene. He will cook for you a variety of meals for the campfire. The water is treated to make it safe for drinking. If you require something harder to drink, then you have to bring this yourself.

Transport
Naturally, rivers don’t flow in a straight line from one town to the next, so you will be required to cover some road distance to reach the start point of the river. You will be transported using private buses to the river. During the transport time, you will be accompanied by the rafting team. Depending on the length of the road trip, you will stop for food and toilets. Any snacks or drinks you require for the bus trip need to be provided by you.

Accommodation
Rafting is a fully supported adventure. You will be outside camping. Campsites will be on the riverbanks, normally on sandy beaches. Tents and basic sleeping mats will be supplied for you; you can sleep in them or outside as you choose. As the rivers are away from the roads, all the equipment and food are brought along by the rafting team. They will set up the campsite with a kitchen and dining area, a campfire for nighttime, and of course, toilet facilities.

What you need to tell us
Please tell us if you are a non-swimmer or not very confident in the water. Also, you must inform us of any medical conditions that may affect your well-being on the trip.

The weather
During the main rafting seasons in Nepal, you will find the weather to be warm and with minimal rainfall. In February and after late October, the weather can become cold, especially in the evening. You should bring along warm clothing to wear when not on the river. The rafting company will supply you with spray jackets to help keep you dry and warm whilst on the river at these times.

Best time for Rafting in Nepal
For rafting, October through mid-December and March through early May are the best times. At this time, you will have great mountain views, clear sky, and rewarding natural scenery. In winter, it is possible, but you have to watch out for hypothermia. At this time, you certainly should expect cold water and perhaps think in terms of wetsuits and dry tops. Monsoon time is dangerous, bringing heavy rains that flood the rivers, so people wouldn’t want to be kayaking or rafting at this time.