Family Rafting Trip in Nepal - 2 Days

2 DaysRafting trip in Nepal with family with Kids
Family Rafting Trip in Nepal
  • Duration2 Days
  • River Grade Grade III
  • Location Seti River Rafting
  • Group Size 4 Pax Min
  • Distance 145 km from Kathmandu
  • Best Season Oct to Nov & March to May

A family rafting trip in Nepal is the experience of a lifetime with a mix of adventure, nature and cultural exposure. The country has some of the most renowned rivers of the world to raft such as the Trishuli, Seti and Kali Gandaki with an ideal mix of thrilling rapids and stunning scenery.

Moreover, the rivers here offer a decent balanced experience to both novices and professionals alike. The calmer rivers with gentle currents are perfect for beginners to gain experience and confidence and the turbulent rapids are perfect to have an adrenaline kick for those who are craving for it. 

Besides the adrenaline rush, there are cultural benefits to a rafting trip in Nepal. Families are able to experience the indigenous traditions and lifestyle of riverbank villages which can be incorporated as part of the rafting tour. This provides families with a chance to gain an insider's perspective on Nepal's authentic culture.

Rafting for the family facilitates teamwork, faith and leaving the comfort zone between family members. While all the members come together to participate and enjoy the experience of navigating the rushing rivers, their bond grows stronger. They learn to trust and work as a group making the experience even more rewarding.

Nepal's rivers provide families with more than just rafting they provide a chance to immerse themselves in the country's stunning scenery. Families who raft along the rivers are surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, lush jungles and remote villages which make for a scenic backdrop. This lets you and your family connect more deeply to the majestic grandeur of nature in a more profound way.

Key Highlights of Nepali Rafting Trip

  • Nepal's rivers offer a variety of rapids to cater to all levels of experience from serene stretches to white water rapids that give an adrenaline rush. This means that everyone in the family can be included in the rafting experience.
  • The family is surrounded by stunning mountain vistas, dense rainforests, verdant hills, sandy banks and picturesque villages, so the Nepal rafting trip is as much an eye feast as an adventure.
  • Families have the opportunity to interact with the riverbank communities, thus gaining a rich cultural experience and learning about Nepal's traditions and way of life.
  • With security always in the hands of expert and experienced guides, families can relax and enjoy the rafting experience.
  • Rafting unites families through collaboration as a team, paddling river rapids together and creating unforgettable memories.
  • Families can indulge in a combination of adventure and peace with the adrenaline pumps of the rapids to peaceful moments along the river.
  • Experience the authentic, heartwarming Nepalese cultural hospitality.
  • Nepal's rivers act as a bridge connecting families with nature, culture and moments to last a lifetime.

Best Time for Family Rafting Trip in Nepal

Autumn and spring are the most suitable seasons for a Nepali rafting trip which are pre monsoon and post monsoon times respectively. As these seasons avoid the heavy monsoon rains, it prevents the rivers from becoming too swift and unstable.

The weather is perfect during spring and autumn with clear skies and mild temperatures, offering an amazing rafting experience. Likewise, the water levels in the river are just good enough that assure safety and fun while rafting. The adventure is utmost family-friendly during these seasons since the river flows fast enough to have exciting rapids but not so fast that it is challenging for beginners to handle.

The riverbanks are simply gorgeous due to the beauty that spring and autumn bring to nature. During spring, the rivers are lined with greenery and multicolored flowers, providing a colorful landscape for your exhilarating trip. During autumn, the leaves change color, adding a golden and red touch to the blue sky. The blend of ideal weather and scenic views greatly enhances the rafting experience while allowing families to bond with nature.  

The river is particularly supplemented in the autumn season by the fresh currents from the monsoon rains. Rafting is a thrilling yet secure experience during this time. The warm daylight is also perfect for camping along the riverbank paving the way for an adrenaline filled outdoor experience.

The experiences you will gain while rafting during the delightful time of spring and fall will last for an eternity and compel you to come back to such stunning rivers again and again.

Overview of Lower Seti River Rafting in Nepal

Be a part of a 2 days family rafting excursion on the lower Seti River in Nepal where adventure and relaxation go hand in hand. The river is renowned for its warm, still water and gentle rapids. Its rapids ranging from grade II to III suit well for family with both new and accustomed rafters. The lower Seti River is a short, very convenient trip that can be reached within a few hours from Kathmandu.

The trip goes through the scenic terrain of rice terraces, rural villages, waterfalls and thick jungles before it reaches the river. The rafting ends close to Chitwan National Park with other activities for discovery. It will give a good opportunity to extend your trip to a wildlife safari or cultural tour in the park.

The Lower Seti River adventure is a wonderful mix of excitement and quality time with the family. The delicious lunch and dinner by the river on both days allows you to savor local treats and fresh fruits. Likewise, you can play some fun beach games such as volleyball or frisbee for further entertainment. Families with teenagers or those who seek greater exhilaration may consider other options such as rafting in the Kali Gandaki, Upper Seti, Marsyangdi, Trishuli, Bhotekoshi etc and excursions that include kayaking or canyoning.

Major Draws of Lower Seti River Rafting

  • Relish the soft rapids giving you the perfect level of adventure and excitement without being overly wild.
  • A good introduction to rafting for children in a safe and controlled situation.
  • Scenic views of rolling hills, dense jungles, waterfalls and rural villages can be seen while floating down the river.
  • You will overnight on a scenic sandy beach with a cozy campfire creating just the right ambiance to bond among the family members under the night sky.
  • Savor fresh cooked meals, local snacks and fruits on the picturesque riverbank.
  • Plenty of chances for fun and relaxation, making it a fantastic adventure for families with kids, beginners and anyone seeking to experience the beauty of Nepal’s nature from the river.
Itinerary
Trip Plan
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Kathmandu Elevation: 1,400 meters

Damauli Elevation: 336 meters

Drive Distance: 145 kilometers

Drive Duration: 5 hours

Rafting Distance: 14 kilometers

Rapids Grade: Class II to III

The family rafting trip in Nepal from Kathmandu begins early in the morning. We will depart the capital city around 6:00 AM to 7:00 AM and take a scenic drive to Damauli which is the launch site for your river adventure. You will have scenic views of the Trishuli River, rice fields, rolling hillside and countryside settlements en route.

The drive passes through some notable places such as the Naubise, Malekhu and Mugling along the way. Upon reaching Damauli, we will enjoy a delicious lunch before beginning the rafting adventure.

Our experienced river guides greet you on arrival and help you pack and securely store your gear in waterproof dry bags. The guide will give you a comprehensive orientation on rafting gear, paddling methods and safety protocols. This important pre instruction will prepare you with the right equipment and skills for the adventure ahead. Then we will move to Sarang Ghat River that is renowned for a mix of serene stretches of water and moderate rapids.

The rafting starts with a leisurely paddle across tranquil waters, giving you a perfect opportunity to enjoy the lovely riverbanks and spot the region's diversified bird and animal species. The river winds through a beautiful forested gorge and along the way, you will catch the stunning scenery of the massive hills and forests all around and drift past small local settlements.

At the end of a river day, you will camp on the vast and open riverbank where you can relax by the campfire, share tales and enjoy a delicious meal that will be cooked for you by your guides. The soothing sounds of the river and the surrounding nature complement your sleeping at the river camps.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tented Camp

Rafting Distance: 10 kilometers

Rapids Grade: Class III

Drive to Kathmandu: around 100 km, 4-5 hours

Drive to Pokhara: around 105 km, 4-5 hours

Drive to Chitwan: around 35 km, 1-1.5 hours                 

The day begins with a fine river breakfast fueling for another thrilling rafting experience. We will return to the river again for more action. This section of the journey brings us a series of class III rapids adding a sense of adventure to the trip. You will experience the sheer adrenaline rush as you continue to paddle more towards the Trishuli River .

Around noon, the raft will pull over for a well deserved lunch break. The peaceful riverside lunch gives everyone the chance to relax, explore or take a dip in the shimmering waters. You will have plenty of other options be it taking photographs, birdwatching or simply unwinding on the shores. Once everyone is refreshed, you will get back on the water.

Gradually, we will get closer to our destination Gai Ghat. It is also the termination point of our beautiful river journey. Upon arrival at Gai Ghat, the flat Terai plains greets us where the landscape changes from rough, rocky hills to smoother sandstone and gravel deposits.

You have several travel choices to continue your journey. You can head back to Kathmandu or take a scenic drive to Pokhara both of which are almost at par distance. Likewise, you can also proceed to Chitwan which is nearby of all. All these routes have their own experiences with different landscapes and chances to discover more of Nepal.

Cost Details
Includes
  • Experienced, licensed English-speaking guides who are fully trained and certified in Whitewater River Guiding, Swift Water Rescue, and Wilderness First Aid, meeting international safety standards
  • Professional safety kayakers to support you on the river
  • Additional gear raft support to carry essentials
  • High-quality, ISO/CE certified rafting equipment, including helmets, life jackets (PFDs), paddles, splash jackets, and wetsuits
  • Dry bags and waterproof boxes to keep your belongings secure and dry
  • A variety of fresh, carefully prepared meals on the river, with tea, coffee, hot chocolate and treated drinking water
  • Camping equipment and setup, including shelters, tents, basic mattresses and sleeping bags
  • Round-trip  Bus transportation
  • River permits
  • Comprehensive first aid kits
Excludes
  • Transportation, accommodations, visas and travel documents not directly related to the trip, along with any departure taxes
  • Footwear
  • Personal items like swimwear, towels and toiletries
  • Travel insurance (we cover insurance for our team, but participants are required to have their own emergency medical travel plan)
  • Tips for guides (gratuities are appreciated if you feel our team did a great job, but they are entirely optional)
Trip Map
Family Rafting Trip in Nepal Map
Essential Information

Major Things to Know About Rafting In Nepal

The rivers of Nepal have been categorized into three broad types based on where they originate from. The ones originating from the Himalayas or the snow lakes like the Koshi, Gandaki and Karnali Rivers are the first type. All of these consist of a collection of tributaries and are famous for offering thrilling rafting experiences due to their difficult rapids as well as wonderful scenery.

The second type consists of rivers that originate in the Mahabharat range. These are smaller rivers and grow in size only during the monsoon months and are thus not suitable for rafting. Finally, the third type consists of rivers that originate in the Chure Hills which have a high water level during the monsoon but run low during the dry period making them not conductive to rafting.

Nepal rafting trips are also categorized based on the level of difficulty and the rivers are divided into six grades based on the challenge to the rafters. Grade 1 to 3 rivers are perfectly suitable for training purposes, promising a safe rafting adventure. Anyone having some rafting knowledge can be part of action filled trips in grade 4 and 5 rivers. Grade 6 rafting is highly demanding and usually only suited for expert rafters. 

Besides, you need to be considerate of the following things as well:

  • Identify the best time to raft in Nepal. Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the periods with ideal weather conditions and perfect water levels for a safe and pleasant rafting experience.
  • Safety should be always given the topmost priority. Wear protective gear like helmets and life jackets and heed the instructions given by experienced rafting operators to ensure your adventure becomes safe.
  • Nepal rafting tours last from half day to several days and you can select the one based on your time.
  • Rafting is a physical sport that requires coordination, strength and endurance especially when navigating through higher grade rapids. It is therefore wise to be physically fit so that you can reap maximum enjoyment out of the experience.
  • As a rafter, it is important to be gentle on the environment, not trash and keep the rivers and the ecosystem around clean.

What to Expect on a Family Rafting Trip in Nepal?

Diverse Level of Rapids

Depending on the river, families will get a mix of calm, easy stretches and thrilling rapids. Moderate rapids are perfect for families who are new to rafting whereas the raging rapids are excellent options for those families who are wishing to experience an intense thrill.

Shared Experiences

Rafting is a group sport where family members come together to work as a team to navigate the rapids, helping each other and supporting one another throughout the experience. This forms stronger family relationships and creates mutual memories to cherish forever.

Strengthening Family Bonds While Embracing Nature

A rafting trip for a family in Nepal presents a special chance to bond with nature and one another. The beautiful rivers for rafting blend excitement with serenity and adventure in a perfect ratio for a family. As you and your family float on the sparkling river waters the excitement of sharing this amazing adventure together brings you even more close.

Likewise, working in groups to navigate the rapids and encouraging each other throughout the ride makes the adventure very rewarding. With the narration about the surroundings from the professional guides, families are in a position to enjoy an experience that bonds them, not only with each other but even with nature.

Safety and Guidance

With full safety under the guidance of veteran guides, the families are able to take the unforgettable rafting experience with the stunning natural view and forge timeless memories. Since the well trained and professional rafting guides ensure safety at all points, families are able to sit back and soak up the experience to the fullest.

The guides also provide insights into the local environment and culture, so the journey is not just exciting but informative too.

Scenic Beauty

Families can expect to do rafting in the midst of breathtaking landscapes including thick forest hills, serene riverside villages and distant Himalayan views. The splendor of the Himalayan landscape and the scenic scenery offer a very interactive rafting experience in nature.

Cultural Discovery

Families will also have an opportunity to socialize with the locals and learn about Nepalese culture and hospitality during the trip. Village excursions as part of rafting trips can also be possible where families can sample local food and see vibrant local traditions.

Some Popular Rivers for Rafting in Nepal

Nepal's rivers are perfect for adventure rafting with spectacular landscapes, clear waters and different levels of rapids to suit diverse levels of experience. The country's varied rivers have something for all ages from gentle streams ideal for newbies and small children to tougher rapids suitable for families with young children or those seeking a rush.

For instance, the Trishuli River is famous for its medium rapids and is ideal for families seeking a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. For more thrill loving families, the Kali Gandaki offers exciting white water experiences that will get the adrenaline pumping. The ideal mix of calm and wild rapids makes it a dynamic and versatile experience for every member of the family. 

Trishuli River

The Trishuli River rafting Nepal is one of the most favorite rafting trips. The 38-kilometer-long stretch of the Trishuli River from Khudi to Bimal Nagar has relatively calm waters except during the monsoon season.

Rafting in Nepal Trishuli is highly accessible with a mix of class II and class III rapids that are just perfect for families who are in their first rafting trip. It is recommended for those seeking to enjoy visual scenery of nature while rafting.

Seti River

Seti River provides the best family rafting trip in Nepal. This river is famous for its tranquil rapids. It is ideal for beginners and families seeking a leisurely yet adventurous experience along picturesque gorges and forests. The Seti River offers a unique experience of rafting with excellent views of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges. The warm winter water of this river makes it an enjoyable rafting spot, even in winter.

Kali Gandaki River

With stronger rapids, this river provides exciting white-water experiences. It is ideal for seasoned rafters seeking an exhilarating experience amidst breathtaking mountain scenery. The journey along this river will take you through the world's deepest Kali Gandaki Gorge which originates from the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountains. Famous for its scenic beauty, the river provides a mix of adventure and beauty that is ideal for individuals seeking an unforgettable rafting experience.

Sun Kosi River

Sun Kosi provides an epic rafting adventure with long stretches of both moderate and heart stopping rapids. It takes rafters through a stunning mix of natural beauty and challenging rapids. Beginning in the clean waters of the Tibetan Plateau, the Sun Kosi snakes through a diverse range of scenery. From secluded villages and dense forests to the wide foothills of the Himalayas it offers rafters both thrills and views along the way.

Bhote Koshi River

One of Nepal's wildest rivers, Bhote Koshi is for those seeking a truly wild ride with powerful adrenaline pumping rapids. Within a short reach from Kathmandu lies the Bhote Koshi River which offers an exhilarating rafting experience. This roller-coaster ride of a river flows between calm waters and powerful rapids, making it perfect for experienced and advanced level rafters.

Marsyangdi River

Renowned for its thrilling white-water rapids, the Marsyangdi River is perfect for thrill hunters seeking an adrenaline-filled, thrilling ride through the Himalayas. With more steep and continuous rapids, it is also a good option for kayakers looking for a challenge.

Tamur River

Tamur River provides amazing opportunities for the white river rafting in Nepal. For expert rafters, the river offers a challenging run of over 120 kilometers with over 100 exciting rapids. Originating in Mount Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world, it promises a surreal rafting experience.

    Family Rafting Trip Essentials

    Rafting Gear

    • Life Jacket
    • Helmet
    • Rafting paddle
    • Headlamps or flashlight

    Clothing

    • Quick drying shirts
    • Synthetic T-shirts
    • Comfortable shorts
    • Lightweight pants
    • Swimsuit
    • Waterproof jacket
    • Long sleeved sun protective wear
    • Water shoes
    • sun hat or cap
    • Sunglasses with strap
    • Track pants
    • Fleece Jackets
    • Socks
    • Underwears
    • Comfy sleepwear (pajamas or lightweight nightclothes)

    Health and Hygiene Items

    • Sunscreen
    • Mosquito repellent
    • A reusable water bottle
    • Sleeping bag
    • High energy snacks
    • Quick drying towel
    • Lip Balm with SPF
    • First Aid Kit including basic bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relief and any personal medications.
    • Anti nausea pills

    Photography Equipment

    • Waterproof camera
    • GoPro
    • Extra memory cards and batteries for the camera
    • Smartphone
    • Chargers

    For Kids

    • Child specific life jacket
    • Kid sensitive sunscreen
    • Extra clothing as they get wet and dirty more often

    Miscellaneous

    • Dry bags – To keep your valuables like phones, cameras and clothes dry
    • Waterproof phone case
    • Binoculars
    • Travel books or games for kids
    • Lightweight daypack or backpack
    • Passport
    • Emergency contact details
    • Rafting insurance
    • Non perishable snacks like energy bars, dried fruits and nuts
    • Waterproof food storage bags
    Family Rafting Trip in Nepal - 2 Days FAQs

    Yes, family rafting in Nepal is safe, especially on rivers with medium rapids. Always choose a river based on the degree of experience your family possesses. Additionally, we ensure safety by hiring experienced and licensed guides who are thoroughly trained and certified in Whitewater River Guiding, Swift Water Rescue and Wilderness First Aid.

    For a measure of added safety, we hire seasoned kayakers to take you on the river and additional raft backups to carry supplies. We also utilize qualitative ISO/CE approved rafting equipment such as helmets, life vests (PFDs), paddles, splash tops and wetsuits so that you can enjoy the rafting with confidence.

    No rafting experience is required for this kind of family rafting trip as long as you choose rivers of suitable difficulty levels. Beginner friendly rivers have gentle rapids and guides will provide instructions and support along the trip.

    Yes! Rafting on Seti River can be enjoyed by non swimmers. Safety is our main concern and we take special care to ensure that all participants, whether they know how to swim or not. Our experienced guides give proper safety briefings and are equipped to handle non swimmers during the course of the trip.

    Yes you will need to sign a waiver form before embarking on the rafting excursion. You should be aware that despite all the safety measures, rafting is a dangerous undertaking. The signing of the form will give you a guarantee that you know the risks involved in the rafting activity and are in agreement with the safety rules and terms set by the organizers.

    It is advisable to read the document thoroughly and carefully before signing. 

    Yes, children are also permitted for rafting as long as they meet the minimum age and weight as demanded by the rafting company. Various rafting companies also offer packages for families and ensure that rafters of minor age are securely accompanied by instructors and relevant equipment. In all likelihood children as young as 5 to 8 years old can engage in family rafting tours along calm rivers.

    Grade 2 or 3 rivers are ideal for family rides since they offer an equal combination of fun and thrill without being extremely demanding. A few rivers in Nepal that fall under this grade are the Trishuli River and the Seti River.

    The cost of a family rafting trip varies with the river, duration and the number of individuals. A typical half day trip may be from USD 30 to 50 per person and multi day trips will be higher. Our 2 days lower Seti River rafting trip will cost you just USD 130 power person including a guide, river permits, food, accommodation, transportation and rafting gear. 

    We highly recommend that you get travel insurance for your rafting excursion. This will cover you for medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellations and lost luggage.

    Having insurance ensures you are financially protected allowing you to enjoy the journey without worries. While we provide insurance for our staff, it is essential for participants to get their one.

    Bring a reliable waterproof bag containing items like your phone, camera, money and other small essentials while you are on the raft. Small items like sunglasses or hats can be strapped or clipped so that they are not lost during rafting. You can also leave those items that you don't need during the rafting activity with the support team or securely store them at the campsite.

    Our rafting guides speak both Nepali and English language. They are professional, well trained and knowledgeable enough to be able to clearly explain safety procedures, paddling techniques and the trip itinerary to foreign tourists.

    During the exhilarating lower Seti River rafting trip you will sleep in campgrounds along the river. Simple but nice, they are a great way to recharge by reconnecting with nature and enjoying the beautiful views around you. Sleeping under the stars in tents with comfy mattresses and sleeping bags provides a relaxing and memorable experience.

    After a hectic day on the rivers you are served delectable meals prepared with local ingredients and with lots of affection by the campfire. A variety of fresh, well cooked food along with tea, coffee, hot chocolate and treated drinking water will provide you with the nourishment and comfort needed to enjoy the adventure to the fullest.

    We provide you with qualitative and secure equipment for your rafting trip. This includes ISO/CE approved helmets, paddles, splash jackets, flotation vests and wetsuits. For securing your personal items and keeping them dry, we also provide pelican boxes and dry bags.

    Besides, our team will also carry vital camping equipment such as mattresses, sleeping bags and additional tents to ensure a cozy night at the riverside.

    If there is bad weather during the trip, such as heavy rain or strong winds, it can make the rapids more dangerous and affect the control of the raft. Our operator group will assess the situation and alter the schedule to accommodate your safety needs. We usually postpone and reschedule the rafting excursions in such circumstances. And you should be flexible in regard to time.

    Yes, you can. We offer the liberty to tailor your trip as per your time and interest. You can simply fill in a form at our website to customize and our representatives will assist you to personalize the trip. We are happy to accommodate your needs for a memorable experience no matter whether you want to add personal activities, visit particular destinations or alter the date, time or duration of the trip

    Tipping a guide is completely optional and up to you. It is usually a way of showing appreciation for the staff's hard work. If you feel that our team has delivered you a satisfying experience, then you can tip whatever amount out of your will.

    We take US Dollars (USD) and Nepalese Rupees (NRS) as payment. Payment can be made in cash, credit card or online with an extra processing fee for online payments. You can use the payment mode that is most convenient for you for a hassle-free and easy transaction.

    To book your rafting package with us, just fill in the reservation form on our website. Payments can be in USD or Nepalese Rupees. For credit card or online payment, please note that a handling fee of a maximum of 5% will be charged. We require a 30% nonrefundable deposit to reserve your trip. The remaining amount must be paid at least 24 hours before your trip departure.

    If you need to cancel your tour, the policy below will be enforced:

    • Cancel 30 days or more before departure: 25% cancellation charge
    • Cancel 15-29 days before departure: 50% cancellation charge
    • Cancel 2-14 days before departure: 75% cancellation charge
    • Cancel less than 48 hours before departure: 100% charge

    Yes, you can join the lower Set River rafting tour as a solo traveler. We will pair you with other solo rafters or groups if you sign up alone. This will let you have ample opportunity to meet other like minded people from around the world. 

    During your rafting excursion, adhere to the following rules of safety:

    • Pay attention to your guide's instructions.
    • Be physically fit.
    • Have some swimming skills.
    • Wear a properly fitting PFD or life jacket and a protective helmet when in or near the water.
    • Know the paddling technique and emergency procedures from the guide.
    • Dress according to the weather. In cold conditions, wear a wetsuit and layers of clothing for heat. Wear sunscreen and protective clothing to prevent sunburn in hot days.
    • Stay inside the raft as the rough sections of the river may get you washed out and swept away.
    • Keep an eye on changing water levels and weather as they could affect the current of the river and the safety of your rafting trip.
    • Do not drink alcohol before or during activities.

    Absolutely! Group discounts are offered on rafting trips. Your group size will decide the discount, so the larger the group, the more savings. We will be more than happy to assist you in planning a great rafting trip for your group.

    The largest number of participants per rafting trip usually is based on how many boats and guides are available. For an enjoyable and safe experience, we usually handle groups of 20 or less. For larger groups, we will split them up into smaller sub groups, each with their own guide to make sure that everyone has fun on the trip safely and comfortably. At a minimum, there must be 4 rafters on a boat.

    No, but we recommend dressing in comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing for the rafting trip. A swimsuit is ideal and you can wear footwear such as water shoes or sandals that are fine to get wet. Likewise, dressing in accordance with the weather conditions will make you comfortable and enable you to enjoy the experience to the fullest.  

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