Seti Karnali River Rafting and Fishing

Starting Point

Starting Point Nepalgunj 

Duration

Duration 12 Days

Difficulty

Difficulty Moderately difficult

Activity

Activity White water rafting 

Max. altitude

Max. altitude 784 meters

Best Season

Best Season Mar-June, Sep-Nov

Distance

Distance 172KM

Group Size

Group Size Minimum 1, Maximum 14

Ending Point

Ending Point Chisapani 

Highlights of the Seti Karnali River Rafting and Fishing

  • Exploration of remote waterbodies: The Seti Karnali trip lets you raft and fish in the most popular rivers, allowing you to explore them more deeply.
  • Scenic route for camping: Though a bit distant, the view of the mountains, forests, and villages makes for a sight as you enjoy peaceful days of adventure with your friends and family.
  • Wide range of opportunities for fishers: As a fisher, you will have a wide range of opportunities to find different fish species.
  • Chance to witness local traditions: Seti Karnali fishing and rafting expedition lets you witness local traditions.

Seti Karnali River Rafting and Fishing Overview

The Seti Karnali River Rafting and Fishing of 12 days is a wholesome journey. One of the important rivers of the Wild Karnali River, Seti Karnali is a remote river in far west Nepal; however, the airstrips at Nepalgunj, Dipayal, and Chainpur make access to the river relatively easier than we think. White beaches for camping, views of distant mountains and peaks like Api and Saipal, scenery with plenty of wildlife viewing, and encounters with some big bouncy rapids are significant reasons for 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. The Seti Karnali River is also famous for its fishing trips in Nepal. Seti Karnali combines the Rivers Seti and Karnali, where Seti flows from the southern parts of Api Himal (7132m) and Saipal (7031m) and joins with the lower Karnali. The geographical structure of the river is remote. In a different destination, we will fish for other fish.

12 Days Seti Karnali River Rafting and Fishing Itinerary

Day 01: Kathmandu to Nepalgunj to Dipayal Bridge

On the first day of your Seti Karnali fishing and rafting itinerary, 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 the put in point, and we will set our camp there. You can acclimate and adjust yourself mentally and physically for the trip.

Day 02: Raft from Gopghat to Dipayal and go to Budhi Ganga Confluence

After breakfast, we will begin rafting from Gopghat to Dipayal early in the morning, setting our next day camp there. If we start from Dipayal, we will raft down to set camp before reaching the Budhi Ganga confluence.

Camp can be decided per the senior Seti River tour guide and his team’s inspection and decision. Before you fish, you can consult with your fishing guide as to how you can sustainably engage in the activity.

Day 03: Raft in Budhi Ganga Confluence

We will continue rafting to the Budhi Ganga confluence and set up another camp there. The Budhi Ganga confluence is all about raw and rural adventure, as on this day of angling, we will also try fishing for the Masheer species, Goonch, and Asala.

And since it is located in both Bihar, India, and Nepal, you can experience a blend of Indian and Nepalese culture when we speak of the cultural aspect.

Day 04: Fish in Budhi Ganga Confluence

This is our first fishing camp, so we will stay another 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, Phalame, and Goonch.

Another way to make your trip even more interactive and fun would be by collecting data on the fish species and the environmental conditions of these species’ habitat.

Day 05: Go to Seti Karnali and Karnali Confluence

In the early morning, we could fish for around two hours before having breakfast. This day might just be the best one for anglers, as there are plenty of fishing opportunities in the Seti Karnali.

In addition to this, we will paddle down to Scorpion Beach Camp before the Seti Karnali and Karnali confluence. We will set up camp overnight.

Day 06: Camp at Karnali Confluence

After rafting downstream for approximately one and a half hours, we will carefully assess the viable fishing spots. Based on our calculations and the duration of our expedition, we may 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. You can reflect on your fishing trip at your Karnali camp by the end of the trip.

Day 07 - 08: Raft in Seti Karnali 

Our adventure begins as we embark on a thrilling rafting journey near Doban, Karnali Confluence, on the Seti Karnali River. After rafting to our designated area, we will set up our camp and prepare for two fishing days in this exceptional location. Renowned as the best spot for fishing and explicitly 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.

Day 09: Go to Jamuna Village 

On the ninth day, we will continue rafting, navigating smaller rapids, and taking in the breathtaking scenery. We will go to Jamuna village, where we will camp for the night. We will also try our fishing luck in the mighty Karnali, which is famous for many fish like Masheer and Goonch.

After you have completed your trip for the day, you can also participate in cooking activities while also learning local recipes with exotic ingredients from the locals.

Day 10: Spend a Relaxing Day Rafting Near Jamuna Village 

We will continue our rafting journey from Jamuna village 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.

By the end of the day, you can come up with all the things you have done and can do in your trip in the remaining days. This day is just as preferred by those seeking to bond with other adventurers.

Day 11: Raft Down Karnali River

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

Moreover, you can also take amazing photos of the local towns and the Karnali river along with it’s surrounding before and after you’re done rafting.

Day 12: Go to Chisapani and fly back to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj

On the final day of the rafting trip, we will reach Chisapani. If you want, you can extend the journey to go for a Chisapani Nagarkot trek, which is one of the most famous ones in Kathmandu Valley.

You can also simply 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.

Keynotes of available fish in the Seti Karnali River

Copper Mahseer (Locally known as “Katle” ):

  • Habitat: Indigenous region of the Seti Karnali river
  • Altitude Range: 76,784 meters above sea level
  • Ecological Importance: Considered a predator within the ecosystem and faces threats due to dam construction and other environmental and habitat threats to the aquatic animals
  • Angling Thrill: Popular for its strength when placed on a hook
  • Preferred Habitat: Found in fast-flowing rivers and prefers rocky bottoms of the water body

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 widespread 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)

  • Habitat: Indigenous fish species to the Himalayan aquatic group.
  • Altitude Range: 300 to 3,323 meters above sea level
  • Ecological Importance: Known for creating the perfect balance in high-altitude freshwater ecosystems, but endangered due to pollution and competition with brown trout species.
  • Angling Thrill: Challenging to catch, but becomes a prized catch when you’ve succeeded.
  • Preferred Habitat: Found among aquatic plants and algae.

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

Seti Karnali River Rafting and Fishing Map

Seti Karnali River Rafting and Fishing-map Download Map

Why combine Seti River Fishing and Rafting?

  • Exceptional rafting experience: Seti River rafting is a standout element of your trip. The best part about this journey is that you can easily access it from Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • More exploration in a limited time: You will have more time to explore the remote rivers and locations of the region during the Seti River fishing and rafting journey.
  • Experience traditional fishing: While you may have explored different fishing locations, Karnali fishing spots are truly exceptional.
  • Suitability for families: Seti River fishing and rafting are suitable for families. Even if you’re traveling with children and people of older ages, you won’t have to compromise on experiences.

Cost of the Seti Karnali River Rafting and Fishing

The cost is from $995 to $2,305 per person, depending on group size and transport type.

Package Size Cost per Person Transport Type
2 people     $2,305 Private only
3-5 people     $1,830 Private/Public
6-9 people     $1,200 Public
10+ people     $995 Public

How do you prepare for a fishing and rafting expedition in the Seti Karnali?

  • Plan the timing properly: You need to plan the timings of your day correctly during the Seti Karnali fishing and rafting expedition. When you’re careless with the timing, you may not be able to enjoy the journey to the maximum. Travelers can enjoy a smooth trip when they follow a proper schedule.
  • Get gear and consult with the tour operator: Before you begin your trip, be sure to contact your tour operator about the gear you will need to bring on your own. Then, you can manage the ones you need to bring yourself. Our agency will provide most of the necessary gear for rafting expeditions in the Seti Karnali.
  • Become physically and mentally capable: You must become physically and mentally capable of taking on the journey when a traveler is not physically or mentally ready or tends to fail to take on that adventure successfully. Hence, this is a very important factor to consider.
  • Learn about the rules: When on the Seti Karnali adventure, travelers need to learn the rules of fishing and rafting properly. Not following certain regulations can lead to serious injuries and even fatalities.
  • Collaborate with a reputable tour operator: Last but not least, travelers should collaborate with a reputable tour operator when they’re on the journey. Doing this will save you from lots of hassle in the future.

FAQs About Seti Karnali River Rafting and Fishing

What is the best season for the Seti Karnali fishing and rafting expedition?

Autumn is the best season, and spring is another excellent choice for this journey. The sky is clear, the water is mild and timid, and the scenery is fantastic. There is also no threat of heavy rainfall. Hence, no landslides! Also, you don’t always have to worry about the temperature going too low when you engage in outdoor activities or camp. And, it’s not too hot either.

What should be considered during the Seti Karnali fishing and rafting trip? 

During the Seti Karnali fishing and rafting trip, you need to consider a few facts. These include taking good care of your health and safety, food habits, the season to travel, and the correct operator to choose. Also, be sure not to physically stress yourself or overwork your body a day before your rafting trip.

Is the Seti Karnali rafting trip a mainline raft trip?

The Seti Karnali rafting trip cannot be considered a mainline raft trip. You won’t find an excessive crowd here, as you do in a destination like the Trishuli River. Also, unlike other thrilling and challenging whitewater rafting trips, the Seti Karnali rafting’s Class III rapid may not serve the purpose for adrenaline junkies.

Is the Seti Karnali rafting and fishing trip suitable for children?

The Seti Karnali rafting and fishing trip is suitable for children above 8. It is not suitable for children younger than that age group as they need to spend several days on the journey, which children below that age group cannot do in a healthy manner, both physically and mentally.

Should I prebook the Seti Karnali fishing and rafting packages?

Yes, you can choose to prebook the Seti Karnali fishing and rafting packages with us beforehand. While many keen adventurers tend to get in touch with us two or three days before their journey, contacting our representative at least a week or two in advance can be helpful.

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