Karnali River Rafting

A one-day trek from the adjoining road leads you to Karnali River – largest and longest river of Nepal. On the river, a chain of challenging class 4 to 5 rapids takes you through narrow canyons and dark forest full of varied flora and fauna, finally leaving you close to Bardia National Park, where you can combine your Karnali River rafting adventure with a safari trip and maybe spot some of the park’s one-horned rhinos and elusive tigers.

Fact Sheet
‘River Karnali’ – meaning ‘Holy Water from
the Sacred Mountain’ (10 days)

Location, Transportation and Timetable
From Kathmandu to Kalyandada via Birendranagar involves a 22 hour bus journey. (Or a one hour flight to Birandranagar, on additional cost, then a 2 hour bus journey). From Kalyandada there is a 2 to 3 hour trek to Kareleghat, the starting point for rafting on Karnali River. Porters transport all the rafting gear and other requirements for the river trip. The 180km river action takes between 6 to 7 days. Bus transportation is provided from the ending point of Karnali river rafting at Chisapani to either Pokhara (10 hours) or Kathmandu (16 hours). There is an orientation meeting early in the evening before the trip, providing you with a chance to ask any questions you may have, to meet your member rafters and your raft guide and team.

Description
The lowland trek combined with some of the most stunning canyons found in Nepal makes Karnali rafting/kayaking one of the most unforgettable river trips available in this country and it is often a favorite river trip of guides and rafters alike. There is a wide diversity of fauna and flora including dense forests, jungle and also remote villages.

After monsoon rains the rapids of Karnali River are challenging and massive, though comparatively straightforward. As the river flows through some quite narrow canyons the flow of the water increases, as does the frequency of the rapids. In low water the demands on the rafter are more technical, though equally thrilling.

Karnali rafting is an perfect trip for those wanting a more unique experience of Nepal, dramatic landscape, great river action and all the benefits of a long river trip in Nepal. It has the added advantage of the ending point being perfectly situated for those wishing to visit Bardia National Park. Karnali River is one of the best river in Nepal for fishing as well!

What we provide?
Beside with our high quality self-bailing rafts, we provide helmets, plastic paddles; wetsuits, lifejackets, and first aid kit. We serve plentiful, healthy and hygienically prepared food and drinks. Tents and sleeping mats are also provided. Sleeping bags can be supplied upon request. All our equipment is of the top quality, clean and well maintained.

What to bring?
We kindly request you to bring with you shorts and a T-shirt or swimwear for on the river, suitable footwear for wearing in the raft, warm clothing for the evenings, a towel, sun block and your camera. A flashlight is also useful.

What you need to tell us?
You are kindly requested to tell us if you are a non-swimmer, or not very confident in the water. Also it is important that you inform us of any medical conditions that may affect your well being on the trip.
Don’t forget to request vegetarian meals if required.

Safety
Higher Limits Trek takes the safety of its customers very seriously. All our guides are licensed, with many years of experience on the rivers of Nepal. All are trained in CPR, First Aid and advanced river rescue techniques.