Nepal Rafting Trips & Itineraries

Explore 8 rafting trips designed by local kimkim specialists to get ideas for your trip to Nepal.

Itching to go to Nepal but not sure if a long-distance mountain trek is for you? Another adrenaline-pumping adventure that’s sure to please is a white-water rafting trip. There are many options in this country for river fun, be it a day-trip on the Trisuli, located close to Kathmandu, or a multi-day adventure down the class IV+ rapids of the Karnali, the longest river in Nepal. Or mix sightseeing in the Everest Region with a few days in the lake city of Pokhara. You can follow this with an easy trip down the class III rapids of the Seti River and cap it all with a jungle safari in Chitwan National Park.

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Kali Gandaki river near Kusma
Map of Kali Gandaki River Rafting - 6 Days
Kali Gandaki River Rafting - 6 Days

This medium-length rafting expedition is an excellent way to take advantage of Nepal's post-monsoon rivers. Leaving from the popular lakeside town of Pokhara, you'll brave class III and IV rapids with an expert guide, camp and dine under the stars on riverside beaches, and kayak on smooth sections of the Kali Gandaki. This makes a fun addition to a trekking trip, or a stand-alone journey for travelers short on time.

Kalinchowk views
Map of Kalinchowk Multi-Sport Adventure - 8 Days
Kalinchowk Multi-Sport Adventure - 8 Days

The Kalinchowk Adventure Itinerary combines a great 3-day trek in the Himalayan foothills, including mountain biking and rafting, and a taste of Kathmandu's cultural highlights. This is the perfect trip if you're short on time, but want to experience some of the best action sports Nepal has to offer. You'll move along trails with amazing vistas as well as get a closeup view of the Sherpa culture.

Enjoy your evenings on one of Sun Kosi's white sandy beaches. (Photo credit: Maila Gurung)
Sun Kosi Rafting & Kayaking Trip - 11 Days

Taking you through the heart of Nepal, this river trip is rated one of the top ten river journeys in the world by National Geographic. Well off the beaten track, you'll spend your days enjoying great whitewater, warm weather and the evenings camping on pristine, white sandy beaches.

Trisuli Rafting & Kayaking: 1-2 Days
Trisuli Rafting & Kayaking: 1-2 Days

The Trisuli is Nepal’s best river for day trips. Located centrally between Kathmandu, Chitwan, and Pokhara, it’s the perfect way to break up a long bus journey to your next destination. Why sit on a bus for 8 hours when you can raft half of it! It’s one of the most popular day trips in Nepal and is great for everyone, all year round.

Karnali Rafting & Kayaking - 13 Days
Map of Karnali Rafting & Kayaking - 13 Days
Karnali Rafting & Kayaking - 13 Days

This is the longest and largest river in Nepal, springing from the sacred mountain of Mount Kailash in Tibet. This trip combines 4 epic days of intense whitewater followed by a more gentle float where you can soak up all the mind-blowing scenery. Finishing at Bardia National Park, you can combine this trip with a few days in the park on safari looking for tigers.

Machhapuchhre Himal, Pokhara, Nepal
Map of Nepal Adventure: Rafting & Safari  - 10 Days
Nepal Adventure: Rafting & Safari - 10 Days

Mixing outdoor and jungle activities with a healthy dash of comfort and service, this trip will take you through the best of Nepal—with time for both adrenaline rushes and relaxation. The adventure starts in Kathmandu with a flight over the mountains, continues to the country's oldest temples, and leaves time for views of the Annapurna range, where thirteen peaks scrape the sky. Two days of rafting send you through the jungle to finally discover the abundant wildlife of Chitwan National Park.

(Photo credit: Maila Gurung)
Tamur Rafting & Kayaking Trip - 14 Days

This has to be the ultimate adventure trip in Nepal. Combining a breathtaking Himalayan trek (with views of Everest can we add!) with some world-class whitewater. Three days exploring Kathmandu and 11 days off the beaten track, and very much in the wild! You’ll need a great sense of adventure for this trip as the rapids are non-stop for the first few days and pretty hardcore. If you’re looking for a trip to get your heart pounding – this is the one!

View of Phewa Lake, Pokhara, and the Annapurna range from the World Peace Pagoda
Map of Best of Central Nepal: Rafting & Trekking - 4 Days
Best of Central Nepal: Rafting & Trekking - 4 Days

Begin your trip in lively Kathmandu before setting off toward Pokhara for a half-day of rafting on the Trishuli River. Spend time exploring Pokhara and enjoying the great views of the Annapurna range before returning to Kathmandu. This is a great itinerary for all ages and rafting experience and provides a well-rounded taste of Nepal in a short amount of time.