The Wild West - Karnali
The Wild West - Karnali
The Last Free-Flowing RIVER
The Last Free-Flowing Giant of the Himalayas
When people talk about the wild side of Nepal, they’re really talking about Karnali – the country’s longest, mightiest, and most soulful river. This is the ultimate expedition for paddlers who want it all: remote wilderness, world-class whitewater, laughter, campfires, monkeys, and a big slice of Nepali heart.
Itinerary
Day 0
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
Day 9
Day 10
Brief Information
Cost includes:
- Transportation to and from the river
- International Rafting Federation-certified guides and safety kayakers
- Gear raft support
- All necessary rafting 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:
- Domestic flights
- 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 and driver, bar bill, etc
Things to Consider Before & During Your Time in Nepal
Roads are bumpy and unpredictable — patience is part of the adventure. Trust the journey (and your driver!).
Bring enough personal medications for the entire trip — pharmacies don’t exist in the middle of nowhere.
Internet is rare or non-existent in remote areas — disconnect and enjoy being truly off-grid.
Avoid drinking untreated water — bring purification tablets or use filtered water we provide.
Be cautious with street food and uncooked items — as tempting as it looks, it’s not worth spending your expedition battling food poisoning or diarrhea. Stick to cooked meals and bottled or boiled water.
Never overpack — it’s just going to be a burden for everyone, including you.
Leave footprints, not traces. Respect the rivers, mountains, and the people who live here.
Come with an open, respectful mindset toward local culture and traditions.
Facilities are minimal in remote regions — embrace simplicity and celebrate the wild instead of comfort.
Carry enough cash — ATMs and card payments can vanish as fast as the phone signal.
Keep your permits and documents handy — sometimes you’ll need to show them at checkpoints.
Stay calm when plans change — things don’t always go as scheduled, and that’s okay. Nepal has its own rhythm.
Enjoy the journey, not just the destination. Every detour and delay is part of the story.
Stick with your group — wandering off isn’t just unsafe, it’s unnecessary in landscapes this vast.
Switch off everything and tune in to the moment. This is why you came here.
Be mindful of altitude and hydration — drink plenty of water and take breaks when needed.
Tipping is not mandatory but always appreciated — your guides and crew will remember your generosity long after the trip.
Smile often — it’s the universal language here and opens more doors than words ever could.
Personal Gear
Pack smart and keep it light. The river will provide everything else!
Lightweight quick-dry shirts & shorts
Warm layers (fleece or down jacket for evenings)
Waterproof jacket & pants
River sandals or sturdy water shoes
Light trekking shoes or camp shoes
Few pairs of socks and underwear
Swimwear
Sun hat / cap & buff / neck gaiter
Sunglasses with strap
Sunscreen & lip balm (high SPF)
Personal toiletries & towel
Headlamp with extra batteries
Reusable water bottle
Personal first aid / medications
Dry bags for camera / valuables
Power bank (no charging for a few days)
Passport & a few passport photos
Cash money in case you want to buy bananas for monkeys or snacks along the road 😄
Snacks or comfort food (optional)
Optional
Camera / GoPro
Book or journal
Light sleeping bag liner (we provide the main bag)
Earplugs (for the snorers and non-snorers alike 😄)
FAQs
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!
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!
People 14 years or older can join the trip. This ensures everyone is physically capable and can follow safety guidelines.
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!
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!
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!
Of course! Just let us know, and we can help with arrangements.
