About Karnali River Rafting
The Karnali River runs through the undiscovered Wild West of Nepal. It is considered Nepal’s largest and longest waterway. In fact, the river has origins at snowy Mount Kailash to the northwest of Nepal in remote Tibet. Kailash is a sacred peak with great religious significance. Hindus regard it as the very home of Shiva and Parvati and the center of the universe itself. Floating along the Karnali’s waters in far western Nepal will be an experience of a lifetime.
The waters plunge down from the snowy mountains and through green foothills as they make their way to the fertile plains. Of the many choices we offer for river running from east to west, the Karnali River is one of the most remote and exciting adventures. It is not easily accessed which makes it even more of an alluring experience undertaken by few. The river takes rafters through charming valleys, exciting rapids, relaxing currents, and inviting beaches. Drifting down the Karnali River can also be the perfect way to unwind and refresh after a long trek or to simply escape life on the solid ground for a while.
Our river rafting adventures are both thrilling and safe, suitable for all levels. The valleys we raft through and their rivers offer a rejuvenating blend of smooth waters and rugged rapids.
As we float along the Karnali we take in all the beauty Nepal has to offer including rural farmland, lush landscapes, jungles, remote villages, glimpses of white peaks and perhaps observing wild animals in their natural settings. Nepal’s diverse landscape offers something spectacular at every bend in the river. The Karnali reaches Bardia National Park with rare and exotic wildlife and a visit to the park before or after a rafting adventure is an ideal combination.
A great length of the Karnali is available for rafting, and we have many options for a rafting adventure, up to a week and longer and from easy stretches to thrilling chutes and drops. The Karnali can be rafted at any time of the year and even in the monsoon when the extra flow provides more excitement.
The river adventure is broken up by slow-paced rest stops on sandy beaches for meals and a resort camp under the starry skies.
Throughout the excitement, we follow the highest safety standards and have your well-being as our top concern. Our journeys are safe and enjoyable. Our crew of trained specialists has years of experience guiding on this river and we provide the best gear and are always accompanied by safety kayakers looking out for you.
Please Note: There are additional options for more exploration in the area that can follow a river adventure including trekking, a Bardia jungle safari and more. If you have the time and the interest, just let us know and we can combine this rafting trip with other adventures.