Trisuli Rafting Kayaking Trip

Highlights

• Experience a unique and exhilarating mode of transportation, foregoing the conventional bus journey in favor of an unforgettable river adventure.
• Journey through a breathtaking landscape, traversing impressive gorges and majestic canyons that will leave you in awe.
• Enjoy the thrill of rafting and kayaking year-round, as the conditions on the river are consistently favorable for these exciting activities.
• Enhance your adventure by combining rafting and kayaking with other adrenaline-pumping activities such as canyoning and tranquil camping experiences.
• Acquire essential kayaking skills with beginner lessons available in the immediate vicinity of the river.
• Paddle through the stunning gorges, keeping a watchful eye out for the diverse and captivating local wildlife that inhabits the surrounding ecosystem. Observe the beauty of nature while navigating the currents.

Detailed itinerary

A trip down the Trisuli River is often undertaken as a single-day excursion, providing a condensed yet immersive experience. The following itinerary outlines what a typical day trip might entail, especially when organized with experienced outfitters. This is a sample itinerary for a day with capable and experienced rafting and kayaking professionals.

The day typically begins with an early departure from Kathmandu at approximately 6:30 am. However, alternative transportation arrangements can be readily arranged for those originating from Pokhara or Chitwan, ensuring flexibility and convenience for all participants. The drive to the put-in point is a relatively short one, usually taking around three hours. The precise starting location can vary depending on the time of year and prevailing water conditions. For example, during the monsoon season, the rafting distance is often extended to accommodate the increased water volume.

The usual embarkation point is located in the charming and picturesque village of Chauraudi. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a welcoming cup of traditional Nepali tea, while the guides diligently prepare the necessary equipment for the river adventure. Participants will then be provided with essential safety gear, including helmets, life jackets, and paddles, and escorted to the riverbank for a comprehensive safety briefing. During this briefing, the guides will thoroughly explain what to expect during the day, covering topics such as river navigation, safety protocols, and potential hazards. Following the briefing, the real adventure begins: four hours of thrilling rapids, interspersed with opportunities for refreshing swims, breathtaking scenery, and exhilarating cliff jumps. The experience offers a blend of adrenaline and awe-inspiring natural beauty.

Approximately halfway through the rafting adventure, a well-deserved break is taken on a pristine sandy beach. Here, a delicious and refreshing lunch is served, typically consisting of fresh salad, crusty bread, and flavorful pasta. After lunch and a brief period of relaxation, the journey continues, with another ten significant rapids awaiting on the next stretch of the river, offering even more excitement and challenges.

Upon reaching the designated take-out point, usually Kuring Ghat, participants have the opportunity to change into dry clothing and freshen up. From here, there are several options available: guests can choose to stay overnight at a riverside camp, immersing themselves further in the natural surroundings, or continue their journey onward to Kathmandu, Chitwan, or Pokhara, depending on their travel plans.

For those who opt for the overnight stay, a guided tour of the camp will be offered, followed by a comforting cup of tea and an introduction to the comfortable tents. Dinner is typically served at 7 pm, providing a communal dining experience where guests can socialize with fellow travelers and the knowledgeable guides, all under the vast expanse of the starlit sky, accompanied by the warm glow of a campfire. This is an opportunity to fully immerse in the outdoor experience.

The following morning, guests who stayed overnight can choose to catch a bus for their onward journey, or they can extend their adventure with another day of rafting, exploring the surrounding area through canyoning, kayaking, or embarking on a scenic day hike to explore the nearby local villages and experience the culture of the region.

Best season

One of the most appealing aspects of the Trisuli river is its consistent suitability for rafting and kayaking, regardless of the time of year. Whether it’s the monsoon season, when the water levels surge, creating formidable rapids, or the winter months, when the river transforms into a more technically challenging course, the Trisuli consistently delivers an exceptional and rewarding experience.

Experience required

Thanks to the unique ‘pool drop’ character of this river, prior rafting or kayaking experience is not a prerequisite. This makes it an excellent choice for novice paddlers eager to explore the natural beauty of Nepal from a unique perspective. The Trisuli River is ideal for families, groups of friends, or even seasoned paddlers seeking a warm-up before tackling more challenging Himalayan rivers. The environment provides for an engaging experience for a wide variety of adventure seekers.

Accessing this river

The Trisuli is one of the most easily accessible rivers in Nepal, which contributes significantly to its popularity, especially on Saturdays, when it attracts a large number of Nepali visitors eager to enjoy the river. Its proximity to Kathmandu, a mere three-hour drive along the main highway to Pokhara, makes it a convenient destination. Furthermore, the regular passage of tourist buses ensures that transportation to and from the river is exceptionally easy.

Accommodation & meals

If you decide to extend your day trip into an overnight adventure, a variety of accommodation options are available to suit different preferences and budgets. A growing number of rafting companies are establishing riverside camps, offering guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural environment and enjoy a tranquil evening by the river. These camps offer a uniquely engaging and immersive experience.

This opens up exciting opportunities for engaging in a full day of canyoning, kayaking, or hiking in the surrounding area. The opportunity to expand your outdoor exploration with more immersive activities is appealing to many visitors. Or, for those seeking a more luxurious experience, several hotels are located in the proximity.