The Karnali River

  • Updated on May 9, 2026
  • Nature Sports
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One of the finest high-volume rafting and kayaking trips in Nepal, the Karnali is the country's longest and largest river, and together with its tributaries, drains much of the far west — a region many refer to as the 'Wild West.' This lower section of the river more than lives up to that reputation, flowing through spectacular, remote, jungle-clad canyons with powerful whitewater, wild and sparsely populated landscapes, some of the most pristine jungle scenery in Nepal, and exceptional opportunities to encounter wildlife in its natural habitat.

Highlights

   
Difficulty (November) Class 4 (5)
Start Point Dungeswar (Alt. 560m)
End Point Chisapanihat (Alt. 195m)
Distance 183 km (115 miles)
River Days 7
From Kathmandu 2 days
Average Gradient 2m/km (20 ft/mile)
Volume (November) 300 cumecs (10,800 cfs)
Best Season Mid-October, November–December, February–May

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