Rafting in Nepal is one of the most popular adventure activities one could try in Nepal. Nepal is home to numerous swift-moving rivers that burst from the Himalayas and carve deep gorges before reaching the broad plains where they slow down and meander leisurely towards India. Many of these rivers are excellent for rafting, and some are regarded as the best in the world. Rafting in Nepal is an intriguing way to explore the nation because the rivers wind through some of the most beautiful scenery, such as snow-capped mountains, terraced hillsides, sparkling waterfalls, lush green valleys, and typical, quaint tiny Nepali villages.
Rafting Rivers in Nepal
The rivers open for rafting in Nepal can be categorized into three major river systems in Nepal: Karnali River System in Eastern Nepal, Gandaki River System in Central Region of Nepal, and Karnali River System in Western Nepal.
Karnali River System
- Humla Karnali,
- Seti,
- Karnali,
- Bheri, and
- Mugu Karnali
Gandaki River System
- Kali Gandaki,
- Budi Gandaki,
- Marsyangdi,
- Trishuli,
- Narayani,
- Seti,
- Madi, and
- Daraundi
Koshi River System
- Arun,
- Tamor,
- Dudh Koshi,
- Bhote Koshi,
- Tama Koshi,
- Sun Koshi, and
- Indravati
Best Rafting Seasons in Nepal
White-water rafting is possible throughout the year in Nepal, however it is advised to steer clear of the activity during the monsoon as the river is likely to be flooded and pose a major risk to the rafters. February through June as well as September through December may be the ideal times to go rafting in Nepal.
Spring
The water level in the rivers can be extremely low in the springtime following the lengthy and dry winter. Large rivers like the Karnali, Trishuli, and Gandaki can be rafted on because the water levels there are suitable for rafting. The rafts may become stuck in the rocks on rivers like the Bhote Koshi, Seti, and Madi, which have very few rapids and low water levels.
Summer
Secondly, rafting will be possible during the pre-monsoon season due to the water levels’ moderate rise. The prime monsoon season should be avoided at all costs, and most rivers are off limits to rafting and other water sports.
Autumn
The ideal time of year to go rafting in Nepal is in the fall. As the end of the monsoon means that rivers have high water levels but are no longer in danger of flooding or landslides. At this time of year, the rivers contain exhilarating rapids that provide rafters the adrenaline they’re after.
Winter
Since the water is adequate and at a moderate level, people also choose to go rafting in Nepal during the winter. However, it may be quite chilly, and the water might be cold. So, it is advised to make extra preparations to keep warm as soon as you get off the raft if you choose to go rafting in Nepal during the winter.