The Kali Gandaki
The perfect introduction to rafting in Nepal
The
Kali Gandaki, named after the goddess Kali, rises in Mustang, an
enclave of Nepal to the north of the Himalaya. As it tumbles down
between the Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna Himal, it carves the world's
deepest river gorge. Once an ancient trading route through to Tibet,
it is now a popular trekking trail.
From Baglung, the river flows through a wilderness area with few villages and people to our take-out at Mirmire. Turbulent rapids intertwine with abrupt drops as we dodge our way down intricate chutes of sparkling water, village terraces cling precariously to the slopes. Surreal snow-capped peaks hang suspended above us as we drift through somber canyons whose black walls glisten in the shadows.
The last day's rapids are the largest and a great climax to one of the best short river journeys in Nepal. Both experienced and first-time rafters will enjoy the abundant thrilling rapids of the Kali Gandaki. This trip can be combined with a trek in the Annapurna region beforehand; a wildlife safari in the Royal Chitwan National Park after the river journey is also an excellent extension.
Trip
Itinerary
Day 1 Drive to Baglung (4 hrs); start rafting
(Camp).
Day 2 Rafting and exploring the Kali Gandaki (Camp).
Day 3 Take out at Mirmire; drive to Pokhara (5
hrs).
trip overview
3 days from Pokhara
trip highlights
group size
trip cost
dates & seasons
