Trip Facts

Duration

1-2 days

Trip Grade

Moderate

Country

Nepal

Maximum Altitude

640 m

Group Size

4–16

Starts

Dolalghat

Ends

Chatra

Activities

Whitewater Rafting

Best Time

Sep–Jan

Highlights

  • Exciting whitewater rafting on the Sunkoshi River (Class III–IV waves)
  •  Beautiful scenery: dense woods, rocky gorges, and towns on the banks of rivers
  •  Immersion in Nepali culture in nearby towns
  •  A short one- to two-day trip that’s good for people of all skill levels
  •  Rafter guides with a lot of experience and safety help

Overview

One of the most exciting things to do in Nepal is rafting down the Sunkoshi River.  The Sunkoshi, also called the “River of Gold,” flows through dramatic landscapes and is the right mix of adventure and natural beauty.  This rafting trip lasts for one to two days and starts at Dolalghat and finishes at Chatara. Along the way, adventurers will see dense jungles, steep gorges, and traditional villages.

There are Class III to IV waves on this river, so it’s good for both new and experienced rafters.  Along the way, you can relax on the calm parts of the river, take in the stunning views of the mountains, and talk to people from the area to learn about their way of life and culture.  Safety is very important, so certified guides and the right gear are given.

If you want an exciting day trip or a short, exciting getaway from Kathmandu, Sunkoshi River Rafting is the best option.

Itinerary

You will depart from Kathmandu early in the morning and drive approximately 2–3 hours to Dolalghat, the starting point of your rafting adventure. After a safety briefing and gearing up with helmets and life jackets, you’ll begin your rafting journey. The river gradually picks up pace as you tackle your first set of rapids, including exciting sections like the Meat Grinder and High-Anxiety Rapids. Along the way, you will pass through lush forests, riverside cliffs, and small villages where locals welcome travelers with smiles. After a day full of adventure, you’ll camp by the riverbank, enjoy a warm dinner, and share stories around the campfire under the starry Nepali sky.

After breakfast by the river, you’ll continue your rafting journey through more thrilling rapids, including Dead Man Eddy and several smaller Class III rapids. The river also offers calmer sections where you can relax, enjoy the scenery, and even take photos of the beautiful mountains and jungle landscapes. By afternoon, you will reach Chatara, the end point of the rafting trip. After a short debrief and farewell with your guides, you will drive back to Kathmandu, arriving in the evening with unforgettable memories of your Sunkoshi River adventure.

Note: The itinerary can be adjusted for a 1-day rafting option, covering the most exciting rapids in a single day.

Cost Details

Included

  • Transportation from Kathmandu to Dolalghat and back
  • Experienced rafting guides and safety staff
  • Rafting equipment: raft, paddles, helmets, and life jackets
  • 1-night camping (for 2-day package) with meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Emergency medical kit and safety briefing

 

Excluded

  • Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, souvenirs)
  • Tips for guides and support staff
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)
  • Any optional activities outside the rafting itinerary

 

Useful Information

  • Moderate level of difficulty; good for newbies with help
  •  September through January is the best time to go because the water levels are best in the fall and winter.
  •  Size of the group: 4 to 16 people per raft
  •  Clothes and gear that dry quickly, water shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat
  •  Safety: Helmets, life jackets, and certified rafting guides are given. Being able to swim is helpful but not required.
  •  Accommodations: Camping along the river is free for overnight trips, and basic services are available.
  •  Snacks and water: Bring water bottles and small snacks with you; on multi-day trips, meals are given.
  •  Respect nature, don’t litter, and use eco-friendly goods to be environmentally responsible.

 

FAQs

Yes, the rapids are mostly Class III–IV, and certified guides ensure safety for beginners.

The best season is September to January when water levels are ideal for rafting.

Basic swimming skills are helpful but not mandatory; guides provide safety support.

Quick-dry clothes, water shoes, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, personal medication, and a waterproof bag.

Yes, meals are included for overnight camping trips: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The 1–2 day trip covers approximately 35–50 km of river, depending on the itinerary.

Yes, transportation from Kathmandu to Dolalghat and back is included.

Children over 12 can join with parental supervision and life jackets.