Bhote Koshi River Rafting is one of the most thrilling and challenging white-water rafting experiences in Nepal. The Bhote Koshi River, which flows from Tibet into Nepal, is known for its stunning natural beauty and its exhilarating rapids. It is a popular destination for both seasoned rafters and adventurers seeking an adrenaline-packed river adventure.
Key Features of Bhote Koshi River Rafting:
1. Location:
The Bhote Koshi River originates from the Tibet Autonomous Region of China and flows into Nepal, through the eastern hills of Nepal's Sindhupalchok District. The river is easily accessible from Kathmandu, Nepal's capital, and it takes approximately 3 to 4 hours to drive from Kathmandu to the river’s put-in point.
2. Difficulty and Rapids:
Bhote Koshi is renowned for its challenging rapids, making it a top choice for experienced rafters. The river features a series of Class IV to V rapids, meaning it has intense, fast-moving waters with significant obstacles like large rocks and sudden drops. These rapids provide an exciting challenge for those with prior rafting experience. Some of the notable rapids include "Gerbil in the Plumbing," "Jungle Corridor," and "Dumji".
3. Scenic Beauty:
The rafting trip on the Bhote Koshi River also offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes. Rafters can enjoy the stunning scenery of lush green hills, forests, and waterfalls, combined with the rugged terrain of the river gorge. The area is also home to several villages, giving visitors a glimpse into the rural lifestyle of the region.
4. Duration:
The rafting trip on the Bhote Koshi typically lasts between 1 to 3 days, depending on the itinerary. There are shorter one-day trips for those with limited time, and multi-day expeditions for those looking to explore more remote stretches of the river.
- One-day trip: The most common trip is a one-day rafting adventure that covers around 20 to 25 kilometers of the river, from the starting point at Barabise to the end point near Chaku or Duwachaur.
- Multi-day trips: For more experienced adventurers, there are multi-day rafting trips that might involve camping along the river, offering a deeper experience of the natural environment and more time to tackle the rapids.
5. Best Time for Rafting:
The ideal time for Bhote Koshi rafting is during the dry seasons of September to December and March to May. During these months, the river levels are stable, and the weather is more predictable, offering the best conditions for rafting. During the monsoon season (June to August), the river can become extremely dangerous due to heavy rainfall and high water levels.
6. Safety:
While Bhote Koshi offers intense rapids, safety is a top priority. Most rafting companies provide detailed safety briefings before the trip, and participants are required to wear life jackets, helmets, and other safety gear. Experienced guides lead the expeditions, and they are trained in swift water rescue techniques.
7. Rafting Packages:
Many travel agencies in Nepal offer Bhote Koshi rafting packages, which include transportation from Kathmandu to the river, equipment rental, professional guides, meals, and camping (for multi-day trips). Some packages may also offer the option to add other adventure activities like canyoning or trekking.
8. Adventure Beyond Rafting:
Bhote Koshi is not just about rafting. The region also offers opportunities for other outdoor activities such as trekking, bungee jumping (at The Last Resort, located near the river), and canyoning. These activities, combined with the river’s wild rapids, make the Bhote Koshi area a complete adventure destination for thrill-seekers.
Bhote Koshi River Rafting is an unforgettable adventure for those seeking excitement and challenge in Nepal's natural beauty. The powerful rapids, combined with the awe-inspiring scenery, make it a top destination for rafting enthusiasts from around the world. Whether you’re looking for a short, adrenaline-pumping experience or a more immersive multi-day adventure, Bhote Koshi offers something for every type of adventure seeker.
Trip Outline
Day 01: Kathmandu to Lamusangu dam
Day 02: Continue Rafting & Drive to Kathmandu
Detail itinerary
Day 01: Kathmandu to Lamusangu dam
8 Hrs L/D Resort
We take a trip to 95 km. east from Kathmandu is the starting point Lomosangu- Dam of the trip. This is a spectacular drive through villages and if weather permits, you will have fantastic mountain views i.e. Ganesh Himal, Langtang etc, we raft the first 10 km of the MOST exciting stretch of the river and then return to the start to play again the same stretch the next day rather than continue with only half a day paddling to the end. Drives back to our camp
After breakfast a quick pack up and set out (approx. 9 to 10 a.m.) run white water hit again a class 3 rapid starting from upper section. You have the second chance to show how your raft team can work well together in challenging rapids. We have lunch on the river and continue the action until the take out point Dolalghat Bazaar about 2 to 3 p.m. and bus back to Kathmandu.
What's included?
- Rafting fee
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Rafting Guide
- Rafting Gear
- Transpotation
What's not included?
- Personal Bar Bills
- Private room