Seti Karnali Fishing and Rafting Expedition—12 Days


  • 12 days

  • Mar-June, Sep-Nov

  • II to IV

  • 172 kms

One of the important tributaries of the Wild Karnali River, Seti Karnali is a remote river in the far-west Nepal however the airstrips at Nepalgunj, Dipayal and Chainpur make the access to the river relatively easier than our thinking. Splendid white beaches for camping, views of distant mountains and peaks like Api and Saipal, beautiful sceneries with plenty of wildlife viewing and encounter with some big bouncy rapids are the some major reasons of Seti Karnali Rafting. In certain sections, rafters are kept busy by the succession of rapids encountered at every bend. Starting with a steep gradient, it gradually eases as it flows down. Making Put-in-point at Gopeghat, Seti Karnali ends its rafting trips at Chisapani. October to December and February to May are considered as the best time to raft Seti Karnali.
Seti Karnali River is also famous for fishing trips in Nepal. Seti Karnali is the combination of the Rivers Seti and Karnali, where Seti flows from southern parts of Api Himal (7132m) and Saipal (7031m) and join with lower Karnali. The geographical structure of the river is remote. From the touristic view it is the less crowed touring place but it is famous for fishing and rafting.

In 5 days long fishing trips the golden mahseer (Tor putitora) and the silver mahseer (Tor tor), Sahar, Bokar, giant catfish, and Asla are our target to catch and play. In different destination we will fishing for different fishes.

Keynotes of available fish in Seti Karnali River:

Copper Mahseer (Locally known as “Katle”):
Altitude Range: 76-784 meters above sea level

Putitor Mahseer (Also known as Golden Mahseer or Himalayan Salmon):
Habitat: Mainstream of Seti Karnali, preferring pool/run areas and swift gorges
Altitude Range: 135-1,650 meters above sea level
Ecological Importance: Considered a vulnerable species and at risk of extinction due to dam construction and pollution, such as in the Sunkoshi River
Angling Thrill: Famous for its fighting spirit when caught, providing an exhilarating battle for anglers of all levels
Preferred Habitat: Found in fast-moving waters, particularly rocky and stony substrates in highland streams

Goonch (Bagarid Catfish):
Previous Habitat: Previously popular in the Sunkoshi River before the construction of dams
Habitat Preference: Found in fast currents, especially in deeper pools near faster currents (not found in small streams)

Snowtrout (Locally known as Asala) and Indian Carplet (Commonly called Dhawai)

Seti Karnali Fishing and Rafting Expedition—12 Days-map

Itinerary

  • Day1

    We will fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (1 hour) and approximately 8 hours to Gopghat from Nepalgunj, or Dipayal Bridge which is approximately 7 hours from Nepalgunj  which is put-in-point and we will set our camp there.

  • Day2

    Early in the morning after taking breakfast, we will commence rafting from Gopghat to the Dipayal, setting our next day camp there. Or, if we start from Dipayal we will raft down to set camp before reaching Budhi-Ganga confluence. Camp can be decided as per the senior guides and his team inspection and the decision

  • Day3

    We will continue our rafting to Budhi Ganga confluence. We will set another camp there. On this day of angling, we will try fishing the Masheer species, Goonch and Asala too.

  • Day4

    This is our first fishing camp, so will stay one more day. During the day, we will again put down our lure fishing along with our angle and hooks against the Masheer groups like Golden, Copper and Phalame, also Goonch.

  • Day5

    Early morning, we could do fising for around 2 hour before having breakfast, then we will paddle down to Scorpion Beach Camp before Seti karnali and Karnali confluence. We will set our camp for overnight.

  • Day6

    After rafting downstream for approximately one and a half hours, we will carefully assess the viable fishing spots along the way. Based on our calculations and the duration of our expedition, we may choose to set up another camp at a suitable location. This allows us to maximize our fishing time and make the most of our planned days on the river.

  • Day7-8

    Our adventure begins as we embark on a thrilling rafting journey near Doban, Karnali Confluence on the Seti Karnali River. After rafting down to our designated area, we will set up our camp and prepare for two days of fishing in this exceptional location. Renowned as the best spot for fishing and specifically targeting the prized Golden Mahseer, the fishing opportunities in this area are unparalleled. The most probable fishing regions extend for approximately 17 kilometers before reaching the confluence, ensuring ample chances to catch the majestic Golden Mahseer. 

  • Day9

    On the ninth day, we will continue our rafting journey, navigating through smaller rapids and taking in the breathtaking scenery along the way. We will make our way to Jamuna village, where we will set up camp for the night. We will also try our fishing luck in the mighty Karnali as well, which is also famous for many fishes like Masheer and Goonch.

  • Day10

    From Jamuna village, we will continue our rafting journey and enjoy a relaxing day on an unspoiled beach. The frequency of rapids will decrease, allowing us to fully take in the stunning surroundings and unwind after a few days of thrilling rafting.

  • Day11

    We will continue rafting down the Karnali River, taking in the beauty of the region and relaxing throughout the journey. The frequency of rapids will continue to decrease, and we will set up camp at some distance above the Bheri Confluence for the night.

  • Day12

    On the final day of the rafting trip, we will reach Chisapani. From here, you have the option to drive back to Kathmandu or embark on a 2-day jungle safari in Bardiya National Park. Alternatively, you can fly back to Kathmandu from Nepalgunj.

What to Bring

  • Shorts / ½ pant
  • Sport Sandals
  • Shirts that will dry quickly
  • Swim suit
  • Warm layers (fleece, trousers)
  • Towel
  • Toiletries
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Camera and batteries/chargers
  • Water Bottles
  • Flashlight
  • A little cash

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 while going, public bus on return, option to fly from Biratnagar – Kathmandu)
  • River permits.
  • Industry standard first aid kits
  • Team photos (photos videos by our team)
  • Included meals
    • Day 1 =  Lunch & Dinner
    • Day 2- 6 =  Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • 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.

Departure Dates

  • 21 Sep 2024 Saturday
  • 5 Oct 2024 Saturday
  • 22 Oct 2024 Tuesday
  • 15 Nov 2024 Friday

You can also choose any date that you want from our booking page.

info@nepalriverrunner.com
+977-9851188261

We support LGBT movement