The River of Gold - Sunkoshi
The Sunkoshi River, famously called the “River of Gold,” offers an epic 270 km multi-day rafting adventure ranked among the top ten river expeditions in the world. Starting at Dolalghat and ending in Dharan, the journey takes you through stunning landscapes—lush hills, untouched gorges, remote villages, and dense jungles—before finishing in Nepal's Terai plains.
The river boasts a mix of heart-pounding rapids like Harkapur (Class V), “Meat Grinder,” “High Anxiety,” and “Roller Coaster,” alongside calm stretches for relaxing paddles. Its confluences with tributaries like the Bhote Koshi, Tama Koshi, and Arun amplify its flow and energy, creating a dynamic and ever-changing ride.

Camping on pristine beaches, connecting with riverside communities, and sharing stories under the stars make this journey more than just a river run—it’s a lifetime adventure packed with thrill, culture, and natural beauty.
Small size group (4-12)
Nov-Dec / March-April
Private Transportation
Difficulty - Moderate
Duration - 11 Days
Starting from $1550
Itinerary
Day 1 - Namaste! Nepal
Welcome to the enchanting land of Nepal! As you step off the plane, our friendly team will be eagerly awaiting your arrival to whisk you away to your comfortable hotel in Kathmandu. Take some time to rest and prepare for the incredible adventures that await you.
Day 2 - Put In
Today marks the beginning of our river journey! We head out to Dolalghat, where we launch onto the Sunkoshi. The river starts with a rush, as we get our first taste of the rapids. Paddle through exciting Class 3/ 3+ rapids, making our way downriver as the stunning Nepali landscape unfolds around us.
Day 3 -Meat Grinder
The river takes on a new character today with some intense Class 4 rapids, including the infamous "Meat Grinder". Hold on tight as we navigate these fast, powerful waters. We'll make camp near Khurkot.
Day 4 - Ride the Rapids
Today's the day to tackle one of the Sunkoshi's most challenging rapids: "High Anxiety". It’s a high-adrenaline ride with a mix of technical moves and raw power. After navigating the rapid, we continue downstream towards the confluence with the Likhu Khola, where two rivers meet in a dramatic display of force.
Day 5 - Harkapur Hustle
Get ready for one of the most famous rapids on the Sunkoshi – Harkapur, a Class 5 beast! This is the biggest commercial rapid in Nepal and is sure to test your skills. After conquering this wild ride, we’ll head towards the confluence with the Dudh Koshi, where the river picks up even more power as we move further downstream.
Day 6 - Tamur Confluence
It’s another day of fast-moving water as we navigate through challenging Class 3 and 4 rapids. The river here has a more unpredictable character, with waves crashing and swells forming along the way. The confluence of the Arun River will be a sight to behold as it joins forces with the Sunkoshi, bringing its own energy to the mix.
Day 7 - Tribeni Trinity
Today, we encounter one of the most beautiful and dramatic spots of the journey: the Tribeni Confluence. The Arun, Tamur, and Sunkoshi Rivers meet here, creating a mighty force of water and a stunning sight. Paddle through some thrilling rapids and take in the natural beauty around you. We’ll set camp and enjoy the peace of the river after a day of excitement.
Day 8 - Calm Before the Plains
The rapids ease up a bit today, giving us a chance to relax and enjoy the gentler sections of the river. But don’t be fooled; this doesn’t mean the adventure is over. We’ll glide along through picturesque stretches, eventually arriving at the town of Chatara, where we’ll celebrate the completion of this epic journey with some time to unwind.
Day 9 - Back to Hustle and Bustle
Time to head back to Kathmandu. We’ll wrap up the expedition with a drive through beautiful landscapes and small villages, reflecting on the river's journey. Our return to Kathmandu marks the end of our river adventure, and it’s time to swap stories with fellow adventurers and savor the memories.
Day 10 - Relax And Reflect
Today is all about relaxing and reflecting. Wander through the lively streets of Thamel for shopping or grab a drink at a local bar. In the evening, we’ll come together for a final team dinner to celebrate the amazing journey we’ve had!
Day 11 - Departure
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight marking the end of your adventure in Nepal.
It's a wrap! Namaste! and safe travels!
Cost includes:
- Transportation to and from the river,
- International Rafting Federation-certified guides and safety kayakers,
- Gear raft support,
- International certified equipment,
- Dry bags and pelican boxes to keep your personal items dry and safe on the river
- All the meals and treated drinking water water during the expedition,
- Tents, simple matress and sleeping bags,
- River permits,
- First aid kits
Cost excludes:
- Lunch and Dinner whilst staying in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Entry fee while cultural visit in Kathmandu.
- International flights to Nepal.
- Bottled drinks (mineral water, any cold drinks, and alcoholic drinks) whilst on river.
- Your travel insurance.
- Expenses of personal nature such as tips for guide, porter and driver, bar bill, etc.
- Any additional activities not in the itinerary.
Things to consider while in Nepal and before coming to Nepal:
- Roads can be unpredictable and bumpy in Nepal—be patient and trust the journey.
- Forgetting personal medications is risky—pack enough for the entire trip as pharmacies are non-existent in these remote areas.
- There’s little to no internet here—disconnect and enjoy the timeless beauty of the wilderness.
- Drinking untreated water can ruin your adventure. Always use purification methods.
- Never overpack.
- Leave footprints not traces.
- Have healthy mind set to respect local culture.
- Remote areas mean minimal facilities—embrace the adventure over comfort.
- Switch off everything and soak in the moments.
- Carry enough cash because sometimes ATMs and other form payments could not work.
- Dont forget your river permits and all the other required documents.
- Stay calm in unexpected situations; panicking never helps, and solutions are always around the corner.
- Don’t rush to the finish line; the magic is in enjoying every step of the journey.
- Stick with the group; wandering off isn’t just unsafe, it’s unnecessary in such vast landscapes.
WHAT TO BRING:
- Personal river gear (helmet, PFD, paddle, etc.)/ Also provided by the company
- Quick-drying clothes
- Swimwear
- River sandals or water shoes
- Warm layers (fleece, thermals, sleeping bag)
- Waterproof jacket
- Sunglasses with a strap
- Sunscreen
- Wide-brimmed hat or cap
- Personal medications
- Toiletries (biodegradable soap, toothpaste, small towel)
- Reusable water bottle
- Dry bags
- Comfortable hiking clothes
- Lightweight hiking boots or sneakers
- Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- Snacks and energy bars
- Travel insurance details
- Camera or GoPro with waterproof casing
- Power bank
- Cash in small denominations
- Positive vibes
| What year? | Date | Max Pax | Price per person | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | October 12th | 14 | $1250 |
FAQ´S
What level of experience is required for rafting or kayaking in Sunkoshi?
Our rafting trips are perfect for all experience levels, from beginners to seasoned adventurers, with expert guides providing all the necessary instruction. However, for kayaking, you should be a confident Grade 4 paddler, as the rapids can be challenging. If you’re unsure about your skills, our team can help assess your readiness!
Are there options for solo travelers?
Currently, we do not offer specific options for solo travelers. Our trips are designed for groups, so it's best to join with friends or family to fully enjoy the adventure!
Are there age restrictions?
People 14 years or older can join the trip. This ensures everyone is physically capable and can follow safety guidelines.
What type of accommodation can I expect?
In Kathmandu and other major cities, you can enjoy luxury, comfortable hotels. While on the river, we’ll be camping in tents with sleeping bags and sleeping mattresses for a cozy and adventurous experience under the stars!
What safety measures are in place during the adventure?
We prioritize your safety with IRF-certified guides and top-notch equipment. Our team is trained to handle various situations, ensuring you have a safe and enjoyable adventure. Plus, we always carry a first aid kit to address any needs that may arise!
What should I pack for the trip?
Bring your toiletries, personal meds, and any other personal items you might need. We have dry bags to keep your belongings safe and dry. While we provide all the river gear and camping essentials, you’re always welcome to bring your own. We recommend trying to pack light for easier adventuring!
What is the best time of year for these trips?
The sweet spot for rafting and kayaking on the Sunkoshi is from September to December and March to May. With perfect water levels and awesome weather.
How physically demanding are the trips?
Trips vary in difficulty, but a general level of fitness is recommended! Our guides will ensure everyone is safe and comfortable!
What if I have dietary restrictions?
Let us know in advance, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs!
Can I extend my stay in Nepal?
Of course! Just let us know, and we can help with arrangements.