Trishuli Rafting & Kayaking: 1-2 Days
Highlights of Trishuli River Rafting & Kayaking (1–2 Days)
- Exciting yet beginner-friendly rapids – Enjoy a fun mix of Class II–III rapids, with occasional Class IV waves in higher water seasons.
- Easy access from major cities – Conveniently located between Kathmandu and Pokhara, making it perfect for short trips.
- Beautiful river scenery – Paddle through lush green hills, terraced farms, river gorges, and traditional villages.
- Optional riverside camping – Experience an overnight stay on sandy beaches with campfire and fresh meals (2-day trip).
- Suitable for all levels – Ideal for beginners, families, and intermediate paddlers with professional guides and safety support.
- Swimming & relaxation breaks – Calm sections of the river allow time to swim and enjoy the natural surroundings.
- Flexible adventure – Can be easily combined with trips to Pokhara or Chitwan for a complete Nepal travel experience.
- Best seasonal conditions – Most enjoyable during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–December).
Overview of Trishuli Rafting & Kayaking: 1-2 Days
Trishuli River rafting and kayaking (1–2 days) is one of Nepal’s most popular and accessible white-water adventures, perfect for travelers seeking a short yet thrilling outdoor experience. Conveniently located between Kathmandu and Pokhara, the river is easily reached within a 3–3.5-hour drive, making it ideal for those with limited time. The Trishuli offers a mix of exciting Class II and III rapids, with occasional Class IV sections during higher water seasons, balanced by calmer stretches where participants can swim, relax, and take in views of lush green hills, terraced farmland, and small riverside villages. A typical 1-day trip begins with morning transportation to the rafting starting point, followed by a detailed safety briefing and paddling instructions from professional guides, then 3–4 hours of rafting through well-known rapids interspersed with scenic float sections before returning the same day.
The 2-day option provides a more immersive experience, allowing participants to camp overnight on a sandy riverbank or stay at a riverside lodge. Evenings often include freshly prepared meals, time to unwind by the campfire, and opportunities to enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings. The following morning usually features another rafting session before concluding the trip. Suitable for beginners, families, and intermediate paddlers alike, Trishuli rafting and kayaking can also be easily combined with travel to Pokhara or Chitwan. The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–December), when water levels, weather, and overall river conditions are most favorable for an enjoyable and safe adventure.
Detailed itinerary
Typically, the Trisuli is operated as a day trip. A typical day excursion with GRG’s Adventure Kayaking would follow this route.
At 6.30 am, you’ll leave from Kathmandu (alternative transportation can be arranged from Pokhara or Chitwan if necessary). The journey to our put-in position just takes three hours. Where we begin will vary depending on the season (during the monsoon, for example, we will run twice as far as in other months).
We typically begin in a little village named Chauraudi. Your guides will serve you a cup of Nepali tea while they prepare things for the journey. After receiving your gear (helmet, life jacket, and paddle), you’ll be led out to the beach for a thorough safety briefing during which you’ll learn what to expect from the rest of the day. Then the adventure begins: four hours of large, bouncing rapids with great swimming holes, breathtaking scenery, and cliff jumps.
For a quick lunch of pasta, salad, and bread, we stop halfway down the road on a sandy beach. Then we take off once more; the following section of river has eleven significant rapids.
When we arrive at our departure location, which is typically Kuring Ghat, you can change into dry clothing. After that, you can decide whether to spend the night at our riverside camp or carry on to Kathmandu, Chitwan, or Pokhara.
We will show you around our camp, pour you a delicious cup of tea, and lead you to your tent if you choose to stay the night. You’ll enjoy the evening with other visitors and our guides around a campfire and the stars once dinner is served at 7 o’clock.
The following morning, you can choose to take the bus to your next destination, go rafting again, try our canyoning, go kayaking, or go on a day trek through our nearby communities.
FAQs – Trishuli River Rafting & Kayaking (1–2 Days)
No prior experience is required. The Trishuli offers mostly Class II–III rapids, making it suitable for beginners. Professional guides provide a full safety briefing and basic paddling instructions before starting.
The river is considered moderate, with fun and manageable rapids. During high water seasons, some rapids may reach Class IV, adding more excitement for adventurous participants.
A typical 1-day trip includes around 3–4 hours on the water. The 2-day trip includes additional rafting on the second day, along with an overnight stay.
The minimum age is generally around 12 years, but it may vary depending on water levels and the rafting company’s policy.
Basic swimming skills are helpful but not mandatory. All participants wear life jackets, and safety kayakers accompany the group.
Bring quick-dry clothing, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses with a strap, water shoes or sandals, a change of clothes, and personal toiletries (for 2-day trips).
The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–December), when water levels and weather conditions are ideal.
Most packages include transportation from Kathmandu, and sometimes onward transfers toward Pokhara or Chitwan can be arranged.
Yes, rafting on the Trishuli is generally safe when conducted with licensed guides and proper equipment. Participants must follow all safety instructions at all times.
Yes, Trishuli rafting is commonly combined with trips to Pokhara or Chitwan, making it a flexible addition to a Nepal travel itinerary.