Kali Gandaki River Rafting Expedition
- 3 days
- extreme
- Up to 12
- March - May and Sept - Dec
We navigate the technical Class III and IV rapids of the Kali Gandaki River through the world's deepest gorge.
At a glance
Trip overview
We lead this technical 3-day white water rafting expedition down the Kali Gandaki River, flowing between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs through the deepest gorge in the world. Our route cuts past isolated settlements, hanging waterfalls, and dramatic rock formations shaped by centuries of glacial melt. This river is known for continuous Class III and IV rapids that demand active paddling and water confidence.
This trip suits experienced paddlers and physically active travellers comfortable in turbulent water. We encounter major technical features including the 'Little Brother' and 'Big Brother' rapids, requiring precise commands from our lead instructors and dedicated safety kayakers on every run. Between stretches of heavy water, we navigate calmer sections that offer views of rugged canyon walls and remote riverside terrain.
Our team provides all technical rafting gear, safety equipment, and camp logistics while we spend two nights at riverside tented camps. We manage ground transport from Pokhara to the put-in point near Beni and arrange the return transfer following our take-out below Seti Beni.
Why this trek
Trip highlights
World's Deepest Gorge
We raft directly through the immense canyon carved by the Kali Gandaki River between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks.
Class III and IV Rapids
We tackle continuous technical whitewater, including the challenging 'Little Brother' and 'Big Brother' drops.
Riverside Camping
We sleep in tented camps set up on sandy river beaches under the stars alongside the rushing water.
Mountain Panoramas
We paddle beneath towering Himalayan summits and past numerous waterfalls cascading down steep canyon walls.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1
Pokhara to Riverside Camp via Beni
Meals: B
Day 1
Pokhara to Riverside Camp via Beni
Meals: B
We depart Pokhara by road for a three-hour drive to Beni, where we unload our gear, eat lunch, and conduct a comprehensive safety briefing. After learning essential paddling techniques, we load our rafts and push off into the current. Shortly after starting, we encounter our first major tests: the Class IV rapids known as 'Little Brother' and 'Big Brother', scouted carefully with our safety kayakers leading the descent.
We continue downstream past the confluence of the Modi Khola, arriving at our evening campsite. Our crew prepares dinner while we unpack the rafts, settle into our tents, and rest along the riverside.
Day 2
Riverside Camp to Riverside Camp
Meals: B / L / D
Day 2
Riverside Camp to Riverside Camp
Meals: B / L / D
We wake to the sound of the river and hot coffee prepared by our team before packing our gear and eating a hearty breakfast. Today involves an action-packed schedule of continuous rapids, wave trains, and technical maneuvering through narrow canyon passages. We stop on a sandy beach at midday to rest, eat lunch, and swim in the shallows.
After lunch, we resume our descent through remote river sections, navigating changing water volumes before pulling ashore at our second night's campsite.
Day 3
Riverside Camp to Seti Beni and Return to Pokhara
Meals: B
Day 3
Riverside Camp to Seti Beni and Return to Pokhara
Meals: B
Our final morning begins with a gentle paddle across calmer waters and manageable wave trains, giving us an opportunity to try out river kayaking or swimming. By mid-morning, we reach our take-out point just below Seti Beni.
We load our transport for the return drive to Pokhara, arriving in time for a hot shower and an evening debriefing session with our team.
Inclusions
What’s included
Included
- All ground transportation by private AC vehicle
- Meals as specified in the itinerary
- Rafting guides, safety kayakers, and support crew
- All rafting, camping, and safety equipment
- All river permits and local entry fees
- Government taxes and service charges
Not included
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- International flights and Nepal entry visa
- Travel insurance covering high-altitude river rescue
- Tips and gratuities for guides and support staff
Before you go
Good to know
Swimming & Experience
We strongly recommend prior rafting experience and confident swimming ability for this trip. The river features continuous technical water, and participants must be comfortable swimming in moving current if an unplanned capsize occurs.
Safety Protocols
Our professional rafting guides carry comprehensive first aid kits and throw bags on every boat. Safety kayakers accompany our rafts through all major rapid sections to provide immediate assistance on the water.
Clothing & Gear
We supply all helmets, personal flotation devices, paddles, and rafts. You should pack quick-drying synthetic clothing, secured footwear suitable for getting wet, and warm layers for the evenings in camp.
Accommodation on the River
We provide two nights of tented camp accommodation on sandy river beaches. Our crew sets up camping gear, dining tents, and toilet facilities at each stop.
Route
Route overview
Altitude
Altitude profile
Pack list
What to pack
Water sandals or secure trainersEssential
Footwear
Must stay securely on your feet in rushing water.
Quick-drying synthetic shirtsEssential
Clothing
Avoid cotton, which retains moisture and causes cooling.
Quick-drying shortsEssential
Clothing
Comfortable for active paddling.
Warm fleece or jacketEssential
Clothing
For cool evenings at the riverside camp.
Sleeping bagEssential
Camping
Rated for moderate mountain temperatures.
Personal water bottleEssential
Safety
1-litre capacity for hydration between meals.
Personal first aid and medicationsEssential
Safety
Include personal prescriptions and blister care.
Passport and insurance detailsEssential
Documents
Required for registration and emergency coverage.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
What level of experience is required for Kali Gandaki rafting?
We recommend prior rafting experience and good swimming ability due to the technical nature of the Class III and IV rapids.
What safety equipment do you provide?
We provide properly fitted helmets, high-buoyancy personal flotation devices, professional rafts, and dedicated safety kayakers.
Where do we sleep during the rafting trip?
We spend two nights in tented camps set up by our crew on sandy beaches along the riverbanks.
How do we travel to the river and back to Pokhara?
We arrange private air-conditioned vehicle transport from Pokhara to Beni for the put-in, and from Seti Beni back to Pokhara at the end.
What personal items should I pack?
Bring quick-drying shorts and shirts, sturdy strap-on sandals or water shoes, warm evening clothing, a towel, and personal toiletries.
Are meals provided on the river?
Yes, our crew cooks three hot meals a day using fresh local ingredients, complemented by treated drinking water.
Still have a question? Message us and our trip planner will reply within a working day.
Book your trip
Pick any start date on the calendar. We block the trip out over 3 days and confirm the plan with you before payment.
Start dateTrip runs
Ready to book Kali Gandaki River Rafting Expedition?
Talk to a Himalaya Treks planner about departure dates, group discounts, or a customised private departure.