Kali Gandaki River Rafting

Starting Point

Starting Point Maldhunga

Duration

Duration 3 Days

Difficulty

Difficulty III to IV

Activity

Activity White water rafting

Max. altitude

Max. altitude 2,500m

Best Season

Best Season Mar-June, Sep-Nov

Distance

Distance 55KM

Group Size

Group Size Minimum 1, Maximum 14

Ending Point

Ending Point Pokhara

Why You’ll Love Kali Gandaki River Rafting

  • Riverside camping: On the Kali Gandaki river rafting trip, you can camp by the riverside
  • Travelers can chill with their friends and family under the starlight by a campfire.
  • Scenic attractions: Travelers can get the most panoramic view of the mountains when they go on a trip with Kaligandaki river rafting.
  • Adventure through Kali Gandaki river rapids: Going on an adventure through Class 3 and 4 rapids can make for an adventure of a lifetime.
  • Interesting Terrains: The rafting trip will take you through different terrains and landscapes, making the journey more than just an adventurous experience but also an aesthetically pleasing one.
  • Exploration of wildlife: This journey will introduce you to different species of birds, butterflies, and Himalayan wildlife.
  • Deep gorge experience: The Kali Gandaki Gorge is the deepest in the world. During this journey, you can explore it from up close.

Kali Gandaki River Rafting Overview

Kali Gandaki River Rafting has to be one of the best experiences you can have as an adventurer in Nepal. The Kali Gandaki river rafting, which begins its journey from the Tibetan plateau, is named after the Goddess Kali, who is considered a divine mother by the Hindus. Paddling along the 55-kilometer-long river gives you an exciting experience as you go through fast-moving class 3 and 4 rapids that will make your heart beat faster. The put-in point of this expedition is Maldhunga (3.5 hours from Pokhara), and the take-out point is Mirmi (5 hours from Pokhara). Kali Gandaki Gorge is the deepest gorge in the world.

The river passes down the plains of Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna range, and alongside the river, you will find tumbling waterfalls in which you can play. Relax around the fire on the sandy white beach campsites with your rafting team at the end of the day. The best seasons for a better experience are September to December and March to May. If you’re looking for a short, adventure-filled trip, the Kali Gandaki River adventure sports, including river rafting and other potential activities, are just right for you!

Kali Gandaki River Rafting Itinerary

Day 1: Pokhara to Modhi Khola

Following our Kali Gandaki River rafting itinerary, we will drive to Maldhunga from Pokhara. Before we hit the raft, our professional guides will prepare the rafting equipment and brief you about the raft and safety measures. Today, we will hit Big Brother, Small Brother, and many other rapids. Our campsite for the first day will be at a sandy riverside in Modi Khola, where you will eat food prepared freshly by our team in front of a campfire under the night sky.

Day 2: Modi Khola to Purti Ghat

After a heartwarming breakfast, we float down the river. We will tackle the Good Morning Rapid and some class 3 and 4 rapids while witnessing the breathtaking view of the Himalayas and waterfalls before reaching Purti Ghat, the campsite for the day. Rafters will also pass traditional Magar and Brahmin habitats, terraced hills, etc. Purti Ghat is a scenic location where you can sit and reflect on all that has happened during the day under the moonlit sky.

Day 3: Purti Ghat to Pokhara

Today, we will raft towards Setibeni, and as usual, we will hit small rapids. Paddling around Setibeni, we will see some black rocks called Shaligram, which the Hindus worship as manifestations of Lord Vishnu. We continue to raft until we reach our take-out point, Mirmi. From there, we head back to Pokhara by bus, which takes about five hours.

What are the necessary Gears for Rafting in the Kali Gandaki River?

  • Helmet
  • Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
  • Paddle
  • Gloves
  • Synthetic shorts / ½ pants
  • Sport Sandals
  • Shirts that will dry quickly
  • Wetsuit
  • Sunhat/ Cap/ Beanie
  • Warm layers (fleece, trousers)
  • Towel
  • Toiletries
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Waterproof action camera like GoPro and batteries/chargers
  • Water Bottles
  • Flashlight
  • Headlamp
    Sleeping bags
    Throw bag
    Whistle (for emergencies)

What’s Included

  • Professional English speaking licensed guides highly trained and safety certified to international standards in Whitewater River Guiding, Swift Water Rescue, and Wilderness First Aid
  • Professionally trained and certified safety kayakers.
  • Gear raft support
  • Quality rafting and kayaking equipment, including boats, kayaks, helmets, paddles, PFDs, dry bags and Pelican boxes.
  • Accommodation in a camp and all necessary facilities including two man tents, shelters, simple mattress and sleeping bag, toilet tents, etc.
  • Treated drinking water
  • Two-way transportation (private bus, option to fly from Pokhara – Kathmandu)
  • River permits.
  • Industry standard first aid kits
  • Team photos (photos videos by our team)
  • Included meals
    • Day 1 = Lunch & Dinner
    • Day 2 = Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
    • Day 3 = Breakfast & Lunch

Types of food provided:

Throughout our expedition, we provide treated stream water for drinking. We employ crews with great culinary ability and provide breakfast, lunch and dinner during the expedition in a buffet style. So, yes you have the freedom to choose what you like. If you have special dietary needs, please let us know about it at the time of booking, so that we can arrange accordingly.

Sample menu for the expedition

  • Breakfast: Tea, Coffee, White chocolate, Muesli and Cornflakes, Yogurt. Eggs, Toast, Hashed potatoes, Pancakes, Porridge etc.
  • Lunch : Bread, Cheese, Salami, Tuna, Sardines, Baked beans, Salads, Fresh fruits and Biscuits
  • Dinner: Pasta, French fries, Curries, Steamed or Fried vegetables. We may provide Nepali Dal, Bhat in rotation for longer trips.

What’s Not Included

  • Visas, flights, other taxes etc.
  • Personal items like toiletries, clothing, camera etc.
  • Alcohol and other packed food.
  • Insurance policy: paddlers need to have their own insurance since we only provide insurance to our crew.
  • Tips for guides – we pay our guides and porters fairly but if you want you can tip them personally.

Kali Gandaki River Rafting Map

Kali Gandaki River Rafting-map Download Map
Download Map

How hard is Kali Gandaki River Rafting?

The Kali Gandaki River’s difficulty level can be considered moderate. However, this one may be challenging if you are a beginner who has not gone on a trip. Since your journey will be guided by our experienced guide and representatives, even as a beginner, you will be made comfortable and can complete the Kali Gandaki river rafting successfully. You must still be mentally and physically sound to complete the trip.

Class 3 and 4 rapids of the Kali Gandaki River may not sit well with those who want to experience something mildly entertaining in the river. It would not be wrong to say that the Kali Gandaki river rafting is primarily suitable for those with an eye for adventure, which is very thrilling! The rapids make the rafting trip bumpy and fast. You need to keep in mind that the highest the rapid can get is Class 4. Hence, the speed can get slow and fast throughout your journey at different moments with different rapids.

Safety Tips for Kali Gandaki River Rafting

The following are the safety tips you need to keep in mind for Kali Gandaki river rafting:

  • Tour with a reputable company: You must tour with a reputable company during the Kali Gandaki rafting trip. If you’re looking for someone you can trust for a safe and comfortable journey, then be sure to contact us at Nepal River Runner!
  • Always wear safety gear: You must wear adequate safety gear to enjoy the rafting trip safely. Travelers are often prone to the dangers of rapidly running river currents, which may cause accidents unknowingly. Without safety gear, even the mildest accident can turn severe.
  • Follow your guide: Travelers need to follow their guides at all times. Not following their instructions can cause injuries and other trouble or hassles in the journey.
  • Don’t drink and raft: You should be careful not to drink when rafting. If you’re drunk or are on drugs, then the chances of intoxication taking over your senses and you getting into an accident are very high.
  • Learn about the river rapids: Before going on this trip, you must know that the Kali Gandaki River has different rapids. Without knowing this, the rafting trip may not be as safe.
  • Learn about the potential hazards: Plenty of hazards could affect your journey on the Kali Gandaki River. These potential hazards mainly relate to your health or safety, so know the dangers and act cautiously.
  • Learn to swim: Learning how to swim can benefit travelers for several reasons. Some such reasons are that you may catch an accident when the river rapids are too fast or lose your balance. While these are only case scenarios, knowing how to swim is a great way to remain mentally assured.
  • Stay hydrated: You must remain healthy and fresh throughout the trip. When hydrated, you tend to feel more energized, making it easier to continue the rafting trip.

FAQs About Kali Gandaki River Rafting

What is the best season for Kali Gandaki river rafting? 

The best seasons for Kali Gandaki river rafting are spring and autumn. The season sees fantastic scenery, the holy river is just as serene, and you will get a terrific view of the Himalayas when rafting. The weather will be just as perfect, and there will be less chance of dangerous accidents during the journey.

Can I raft in Kali Gandaki as a beginner?

Yes, you can raft in the Kali Gandaki as a beginner. However, you need a supervisor to help you complete the journey seamlessly. You can also take on the journey with a group of rafters who are confident about rafting and those who will heighten your brave spirits.

Is Kali Gandaki safe to raft? 

Yes, Kali Gandaki is relatively safe to raft. It has been considered one of the best rivers for rafting to date. With guided tours, the river has been safer than ever. The growing tourism and adventure activities have a lot to do with the river’s growth in safety.

What is an interesting fact about the Kali Gandaki River besides the rafting experience? 

The most interesting fact about the Kali Gandaki River is that it is also popular for being a river dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali. Since it is also named after the goddess, the river is considered auspicious for crematory rites.

How old does a rafter have to be to raft in the Kali Gandaki River? 

A child over the age of 8 can raft the Trishuli River, which is easier. However, the Kali Gandaki River is moderately difficult, and a child must be over 16 to raft here. If you or anyone in your family is over the age of 60, it is recommended that you avoid or reconsider the trip due to health and capacity factors.

BOOK NOW

This package can be booked from our booking page in any day you like.

info@nepalriverrunner.com
+977-9851188261

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