Two-Day Trishuli River Rafting from Kathmandu: Rapids, Camps, and Himalayan Scenery
The Trishuli River delivers two crisp days of class II–III whitewater, sandy beach camping, and big-sky valley views—just a half-day’s drive from Kathmandu. It’s guide-led, gear-included, and as cultural as it is splashy, with options to continue to Pokhara or Chitwan after you take out near Mugling.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress to get wet
Wear quick‑dry layers and secure river sandals or shoes—cotton stays cold and heavy once the Trishuli grabs it.
Monsoon changes the game
June–September brings higher, pushier flows and stronger rapids; expect upgraded safety protocols and bigger swims.
Sun and spray strategy
Long-sleeve UPF tops, lip balm, and reef‑safe sunscreen keep you comfortable on reflective water.
Listen for the commands
Forward, back, and hold-on calls keep the raft in line through features like Upset and Surprise—stay locked in with your feet.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Ride the Manakamana cable car from Kurintar for sweeping views of the Trishuli corridor and mid-hill villages.
- •Walk the short riverside path to an old suspension bridge near Kuringhat for quiet evening light and local life scenes.
Wildlife
- •White-throated kingfishers patrolling eddies
- •Rhesus macaques along the forested banks
Conservation Note
Pack out all waste and avoid single-use plastics. Hydropower development and sand mining pressure the river—choose operators who practice Leave No Trace and support local stewardship.
The Trishuli is named for Shiva’s trident and flows from sacred Gosainkunda in the Langtang region, long serving as a trade and pilgrimage corridor between the hills and plains.
Photographer's Notes
- • Charaudi put‑in beach facing upstream wave trains
- • Suspension bridge near Kurintar for wide valley shots
- • Sandy camp at dusk with river curves and ridgelines
What to Bring
River sandals or water shoes with heel strapEssential
Secure footing is crucial on wet rocks and in the raft—avoid loose flip-flops.
Quick-dry long-sleeve sun shirt (UPF)Essential
Keeps you warm in spray and protected from high-altitude sun during shoulder seasons.
Lightweight waterproof shell
Monsoon squalls and constant splash make a packable rain jacket worth its weight.
5–10L dry bag or phone pouch
Protects small essentials and electronics from waves and unexpected swims.
Common Questions
What class of rapids are on the Trishuli for this trip?
Most sections are class II–III outside monsoon; expect stronger, faster class III+ features during peak monsoon flows.
Do I need prior rafting experience?
No. Guides provide a full safety briefing and commands; basic comfort in water and willingness to paddle as a team are sufficient.
What’s included in the trip?
Private round-trip transport from Kathmandu, professional guides, rafting gear (raft, PFD, helmet, paddle), river permits, meals, and one night in a riverside resort or tented camp.
What should I bring from Kathmandu?
Quick-dry clothing, secure footwear, sunscreen, hat, personal medications, a change of warm clothes for camp, and a small dry bag if you have one.
When is the best season to go?
October–May offers stable weather and moderate flows; June–September is exciting but higher consequence due to monsoon-swollen water.
Can I continue to Pokhara or Chitwan after rafting?
Yes. Many travelers route from the take-out near Mugling directly to Pokhara or Chitwan instead of returning to Kathmandu.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 days (4–5 hours rafting each day)
Location
Charaudi, Bagmati Province
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Comfortable with 4–5 hours of active paddling and sitting in a raft; basic mobility to climb in/out on uneven, wet terrain.
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