Karnali is a powerful, remote Class IV–V river. It’s suited for experienced rafters or strong, fit first-timers ready to take on long paddling days, fast water, and back-to-back technical rapids. Confidence in water and a good level of endurance is a must.

The Karnali River expedition lasts about 10 days:

• Starts with a drive or flight to Surkhet, followed by a jungle trek to the put-in point

• Rafting spans over 180 km, passing through gorges, pristine jungle, and sandy beaches

• Ends at Chisapani, near the Bardia National Park
  Each day offers whitewater challenges, riverside camping, and cultural encounters in Nepal’s far west.

Expect to spend between USD 1,100 and 1,550, which includes:

• Rafting equipment and safety gear

• Camping gear and all meals on the river

• Transportation to/from the river (including flights or long drives)

• Guides, permits, and support crew
  Reputable outfitters include all costs—tips, snacks, and personal gear rental may be extra.

You’ll raft through steep jungle gorges, remote valleys, and wild river canyons, surrounded by lush forests, cliffs, and waterfalls. The area is largely untouched by tourism, giving a raw and immersive wilderness feel, with daily wildlife sightings and absolute solitude.

Karnali is Nepal’s longest and most remote river, offering a true expedition experience. Compared to the more accessible Sun Koshi, Karnali has fewer people, bigger rapids, and greater biodiversity. Unlike Trishuli’s commercial day trips, Karnali requires full immersion and rewards you with untamed nature.

No. The entire rafting route lies at low elevations (typically below 700m), so there’s no risk of altitude sickness. However, the physical challenge, sun exposure, and remote conditions require you to be well-prepared and in good health.

Yes! Solo adventurers are welcome, and most outfitters run scheduled group departures. Solo travelers can join mixed groups, making it both economical and social, and ensuring the required number of paddlers for safe expedition flow.

Karnali rafting is not recommended for young children or families with kids under 15, due to the intensity of rapids, remoteness, and length of the trip. It’s best suited for adults and adventurous teens in strong physical condition.

Meals are prepared by a mobile kitchen crew, offering fresh and hearty dishes like:

• Dal bhat (Nepali staple)

• Pasta, stir-fry, pancakes, fried rice, and soups

• Tea, coffee, and filtered water available daily
  Food is high-energy, balanced, and catered to dietary needs if requested in advance.

Once the rafting begins, you’ll be entirely off-grid—no cell signal or Wi-Fi. The digital disconnection is intentional, allowing for a true wilderness immersion. Guides carry satellite phones or radios for emergencies.

Packing correctly for this multi-day, remote river expedition is essential. While rafting companies provide rafts, helmets, life jackets, tents, mats, and sleeping bags, your personal comfort and safety depend on smart layering and personal gear.

Day Gear:

• Quick-dry shirts, shorts, and swimsuits (synthetic or rash-guard material)

• Light rain jacket or windbreaker

• Sun hat, buff/scarf, and UV sunglasses with strap

• Waterproof sunscreen and lip balm

Evening & Camp Wear:

• Long-sleeve shirts and full-length pants

• Warm fleece or down jacket

• Thermal base layers (essential for spring and autumn nights)

• Woolen socks, beanie, gloves (for late autumn/spring)

Footwear:

• River sandals or sports sandals (must have straps—no flip-flops)

• Dry camp shoes or warm socks for use in tents at night

Accessories:

• Headlamp (with extra batteries)

• Toiletries (toothbrush, biodegradable soap, towel, wipes)

• Power bank or solar charger

• Dry bags or ziplocks to store personal gear

• Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)

• Personal medications, allergy meds, motion sickness pills

Each participant usually has access to one waterproof barrel or dry bag carried by porters or on the supply raft—pack wisely!

This is a true remote wilderness expedition. There are no tea houses, shops, or phone networks once you're on the river. Every night is spent camping on uninhabited sandy beaches or jungle clearings, far from civilization.

Camping Setup:

• Tents (2-person or solo) are provided by your rafting team

• Foam mattress pads and -10°C to -15°C sleeping bags are included

• All setup and packing is handled by staff—you just paddle, rest, and enjoy nature

Meals:

• Prepared by an expert river kitchen crew every day

• Typical menu includes:

  • Breakfast: Porridge, pancakes, eggs, tea/coffee

  • Lunch: Sandwiches, pasta, fried rice, fresh vegetables

  • Dinner: Dal bhat, curry, noodle soup, or spaghetti with dessert

• Hot drinks and snacks are served throughout the day

Everything is self-contained and eco-friendly—waste is packed out, fires are controlled, and you’ll leave no trace.

Permits for the Karnali River Rafting expedition are straightforward and typically handled by your rafting operator.

Required:

1. Rafting Permit

   • Issued by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB)

   • Covers access, river rights, environmental monitoring

   • Usually included in your expedition package

2. Identification

   • Carry a copy of your passport

   • Have proof of travel insurance that includes adventure sports and emergency evacuation

Not Required:

• No trekking permits

• No national park entry if you're only rafting (even though the river passes through remote areas near Bardia National Park)

Your guide will carry group permits and registration. However, always keep a digital copy of your travel documents just in case.