Sun Koshi Rafting

Sun Koshi River Facts

Grade for Autumn: Oct - Dec III to V

Grade for Spring: Feb to May III to IV

Possible operation: Round the year

Departure: Fix and on request

Rafting days: 10 days (KTM to KTM)

Entrance by: Drive 3 hours east to from Kathmandu

Put-in point: Dolalghat

Put-out point: Chatara

River distance: 270 km.

Optional trips to: Drive to Biratnagar and take a flight to Kathmandu or drive to Chitwan National Park or Koshi Tappu for an excellent safari or drive back to Kathmandu.

Numbers of pax: Minimum 6 persons

Trip Price: Contact Us

Sun Koshi River Rafting

Highlights

  • Thrilling class III to IV+ rapids
  • Scenic journey through remote valleys and lush forests
  • Breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks
  • Multi-day adventure with riverside camping
  • Opportunities for wildlife and birdwatching
  • Cultural interactions with local communities
  • Experienced guides ensure safety and a memorable trip
  • The Sunkoshi River, is a whitewater river located in Nepal. It is one of the longest and most popular rivers for rafting in Nepal, and is known for its challenging rapids. The river is a popular destination for rafting enthusiasts of all levels, from beginners to experienced rafters.

    Sunkohsi River Rafting The Sunkoshi River originates from the Tibet-Nepal border, and its course meanders through the eastern regions of Nepal before finally merging with the Ganges River in India. The rafting journey typically starts from Dolalghat, which is about a 3 to 4 hours' drive from Kathmandu, and concludes after several days of rafting at the take-out point near the town of Chatara.

    Rafting Difficulty

    Sunkoshi River Rafting is classified as a class III to IV+ river, making it suitable for both experienced rafters and adventurous beginners. The river offers a mix of exciting rapids with moderate challenges, ensuring an adrenaline-pumping experience without being overly technical.

    Scenery and Surroundings

    The Sunkoshi River takes rafters on a captivating journey through some of Nepal's most remote and unspoiled regions. The picturesque landscapes encompass terraced farmlands, lush forests, and traditional villages, providing an intimate view of Nepal's cultural and natural heritage. Throughout the trip, rafters are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including the eastern Himalayas and other snow-capped peaks.

    Camping and Riverside Experience

    Sunkoshi River Rafting is a multi-day adventure, and participants camp alongside the river each night. Camping under the starry skies, surrounded by nature's tranquility, adds a sense of adventure and relaxation to the trip. The campsites are carefully chosen to offer the best views and amenities for a comfortable stay

    Wildlife and Birdwatching:

    As the river winds through lush forests and wildlife-rich regions, rafters may have the opportunity to spot various bird species and wildlife. Common sightings include eagles, vultures, deer, and sometimes even monkeys along the riverbanks.

    Cultural Encounters

    The Sunkoshi River journey also presents opportunities to interact with local communities and observe their unique customs and traditions. Rafters may have the chance to visit remote villages and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Nepalese people.

    Best Time for Rafting

    The ideal time for Sunkoshi River Rafting is during the post-monsoon season, from September to November and the pre-monsoon season, from March to May. During these months, the water levels are conducive to rafting and the weather is pleasant, making for an enjoyable and safe rafting experience.

    Safety Precautions

    Given the nature of the river and the remote terrain, it is essential to undertake Sunkoshi River Rafting with an experienced rafting operator. Professional guides with expertise in navigating the river ensure safety and provide necessary guidance to make the journey memorable.

    I hope this overview has given you a better understanding of Sunkoshi River rafting. If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.

    10 Days Sunkoshi River Rafting Itinerary

    A pre-departure meeting to answer any questions, arrange timings for the departure and meet the team over a glass of rum (or two) is held the night before.

    Day 1: 7:00am departure to rafting starting point, Dolal Ghat
    3hrs drive to Dolalghat, rafting starting point and short rafting camp in Tarang Gaon

    Day 2: Tarang Gaon to Dumja village rafting approx. 4 hours
    The gathered villagers shall cheer you as you drift away slowly gathering momentum, slowly leaving behind the Langtang ranges. Sunkoshi is considered as a Holy river by the Nepalese Hindus, the river flows into the Holy Ganges in India, soon we hit the very technical rapid called Khuei Bhai rapid, strewn with rooks and boulders, hence, considerable care is need. Camp for the night near the Mahadev temple, reputed to be the first Shiva temple in Nepal.

    Day 3: Dumja village to Khunkot rafting approx. 6 hours
    WET AND WILD.immediately we are hitting the rapids passing enroute the fishing village of Kodaris' and the Chamera Bhir were you see hundreds of bats screaming and clinging to the walls of the cliffs, some good fun filled rapids takes up to Khunkot where we camp for the night.

    Day 4: Khurkot to Likhu Khola rafting approx. 5 hours
    Habitations dwindle, few poor Rai villages' enroute, exciting rapids in the afternoon with good photo prospects

    Day 5:Likhu Khola to Harkapur village rafting approx. 6 hours
    Today, we pass through deep gorges punctuated with exciting rapids unfolding pleasant floats in the afternoon troops of Langur and Rhesus monkeys can be seen romping the riverbanks.

    Day 6: Harkapur village to Rai Ghat rafting approx. 6 hours
    Today is one of the most exciting and challenging days of the expedition encountering some very demanding rapids where you witness the skills of our guides, we pass through 'Bridge rapids' and 'Krishna rapids' stopping to carefully plan our strategy through the next rapids. Mr. Mangal Gurung was the first rafter to successfully take rafts in 1979 and he has the distinction of being the 1st Nepali to raft the Sunkoshi, it was a no mean success, hence, the rapid is named after him 'MANGAL RAPID'. Floating past the confluence of the Dudh Koshi, we hit the last rapid for the day, 'Roller Coaster' a hair rising rapid.

    Day 7: Rai Ghat to Bander Ghat rafting approx. 6 hours
    Hold tight, the ride is not over yet.as past the point of Sap Su Khola is a rapid with the greatest drop Huge 'holes', 'eddies' and churning 'stopper waves' demands team work and hard paddle.

    Day 8: Bander Ghat to Bonjur Ghat rafting aprox. 6 hours
    We take to the rapids again, busy all morning earnestly thanking for the lunch break, emerging from the Mardheku gorge the river spreads wide, less agitated after its confinement between steep cliffs and gorges.

    Day 9: Bonjur Ghat to Barahchhatra rafting aprox. 6 hours
    Today the whole stretch is a mixture of fun filled rapids and calm undulating floats, you are somewhat relived, yet sad that the trip is coming to an end, all good things ultimately does.

    Day 10: Short rafting reaches out points Chatara
    after lunch takes night bus to Kathmandu or drive to Biratnagar Airport to take a flight back to Kathmandu.

    Note: Rafting itinerary can be changed as per different situation.