Karnali River Rafting - 10 Days Expeditions

10 DaysKarnali River Rafting – Nepal’s Ultimate Whitewater Expedition
Karnali River Rafting
  • Duration10 Days
  • River Grade Grade V
  • Location Karnali River Rafting
  • Group Size 4-12 Pax
  • Distance 507 KM
  • Best Season Oct to Nov and March to May

Karnali River Rafting – Nepal’s Ultimate Wild West Whitewater Adventure

Karnali River Rafting is one of Nepal’s most thrilling and unforgettable river adventures, taking you deep into the remote and spectacular wilderness of western Nepal. Known as Nepal’s longest and largest river, the Karnali rises near the sacred Mount Kailash in Tibet before flowing through Nepal’s dramatic mountains, deep canyons, forests, and untouched landscapes. This multi-day Karnali River Rafting expedition combines exciting whitewater rapids with peaceful floating sections, making it an ideal adventure for travelers seeking both adrenaline and wilderness.

The first section delivers an unforgettable whitewater rafting in Nepal experience, with powerful rapids and continuous excitement often described as a roller-coaster ride. As the journey continues, the river becomes calmer, allowing you to enjoy spectacular scenery, pristine beaches, dense jungle, and remote valleys far from the crowds. The changing landscape makes the Karnali rafting trip remarkably diverse and rewarding.

One of the major highlights is reaching the wilderness surrounding Bardia National Park, one of Nepal’s finest wildlife destinations. The river journey offers opportunities to experience an extraordinary combination of Karnali River adventure, jungle, wildlife, and untouched nature. With dramatic scenery, challenging rapids, peaceful river sections, and a true feeling of exploration, the Karnali River Rafting Expedition is widely regarded as one of Nepal’s finest rafting adventures.

Whether you are an experienced rafter or an adventure traveler looking for an authentic Nepal river rafting experience, Karnali promises an unforgettable journey into Nepal’s wild west.

Highlights of Karnali River Rafting

  • Nepal’s Longest River Adventure – Explore the mighty Karnali, Nepal’s longest and largest river.
  • Thrilling Whitewater Rapids – Enjoy powerful rapids and exciting whitewater action for an unforgettable adventure.
  • Remote Wild West of Nepal – Discover untouched landscapes, deep gorges, forests, and remote valleys.
  • Exciting to Relaxing Journey – Experience a perfect mix of adrenaline-filled rapids and peaceful river floating.
  • Pristine Wilderness & Beaches – Enjoy unspoiled scenery, beautiful sandy beaches, and spectacular natural surroundings.
  • Bardia National Park – Finish your rafting adventure near the famous Bardia National Park, rich in jungle and wildlife.
  • Ultimate Nepal River Expedition – Experience one of Nepal’s finest rafting journeys, combining adventure, nature, wildlife, and exploration.

Karnali River Rafting – Nepal’s Ultimate Whitewater Adventure

Karnali River Rafting is one of the best adventure experiences in Nepal for travelers seeking thrilling rapids and untouched wilderness. The Karnali is Nepal’s longest and largest river, flowing from the sacred Himalayan region near Mount Kailash in Tibet into the remote western landscapes of Nepal. The rafting expedition takes you through dramatic canyons, rugged mountains, dense forests, and pristine valleys. With powerful whitewater, scenic surroundings, and remote river beaches, a Karnali rafting trip offers an authentic adventure far away from Nepal’s busy tourist routes.

Exciting Whitewater Rapids and River Adventure

The first part of the Karnali River Rafting Expedition is filled with exciting whitewater action and powerful rapids. The river’s strong current, dramatic drops, and continuous rapids create an unforgettable experience for adventure lovers. Often described as a thrilling roller-coaster ride, this section provides plenty of excitement while surrounded by spectacular natural scenery. As the expedition progresses, the rapids gradually become gentler, creating a perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. It is an excellent choice for travelers searching for whitewater rafting in Nepal and a truly wild river experience.

Remote Wilderness, Beaches and Untouched Nature

One of the biggest attractions of a Karnali rafting trip is the incredible variety of landscapes along the river. After the exciting rapids, the journey becomes more peaceful, allowing you to enjoy remote valleys, dramatic cliffs, pristine sandy beaches, thick forests, and unspoiled wilderness. The absence of busy roads and large settlements gives the expedition a genuine feeling of exploration. Floating through these untouched landscapes provides opportunities to appreciate Nepal’s natural beauty from a completely different perspective. For nature and adventure lovers, Karnali River Rafting in Nepal offers an unforgettable escape into the wild.

Karnali River Rafting to Bardia National Park

A major highlight of the Karnali River Rafting Expedition is reaching the wilderness near Bardia National Park, one of Nepal’s famous wildlife destinations. The journey combines exciting river adventure with spectacular jungle scenery and opportunities to experience the natural environment of western Nepal. After days of rafting through remote landscapes, reaching the Bardia region creates a rewarding end to the expedition. Travelers can combine their Karnali River Rafting adventure with a wildlife experience, making this trip ideal for those who want to discover Nepal’s wild west through rafting, jungle, nature, and exploration.

Itinerary
Trip Plan
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Kathmandu Altitude: 1,400 meters

Drive Distance: 565 kilometers

Drive Duration: 16-18 hours

Our 10-day Karnali rafting expedition will begin with a drive out of the Kathmandu Valley, heading towards Surkhet. You will be departing early afternoon. As the journey between these two places is quite long, you will be driving the whole night and reach the destination on the other day. Depending on your vehicle choice be it a private car, bus or jeep will pick you up from your hotel or a pre-decided pick-up point in Kathmandu for a scenic overland journey towards Surkhet.

The first part of the drive will follow the Prithvi Highway to Pokhara. The journey will take you through small towns of Naubise, Damauli, Mugling, Kurintar and Siddhartha Nagar with beautiful views of terraced fields, dense forests and Trishuli and Marsyangdi River.

You will travel to Beni from Pokhara. Beni is a picturesque town in Myagdi District. The drive will be scenic as you will travel towards Annapurna Range foothills. Beni is 2 to 3 hours' ride from Pokhara and you will have stunning views of rivers and mountains while traveling.

The trip continues farther from Beni on the Chinchu Jajarkot Highway by the Bheri Rivertowards Surkhet in the Karnali Province. It is a rougher ride because this segment of the journey is more off-road and therefore, it takes longer. Look for scenery to change from the hills to the relatively flat, rural countryside towards Surkhet.

You will most likely reach Surkhet late in the evening the day after you take the ride. Rest and unwind after the exhausting day of driving with dinner at your hotel or guesthouse where you will spend the night.

  • Meals: Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Nepalgunj Altitude: 150 meters

Flight Duration: around 1 hour

Drive Distance: around 75 kilometers

Drive Duration: 2-3 hours

For those opting to fly, you can skip the first day itinerary which is a two-day road journey to Surkhet by taking a direct one-hour flight to Nepalgunj. We will depart Kathmandu early in the morning after a hearty breakfast at the hotel. Catching a flight from the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will head to Nepalgunj, where you will continue your journey towards the Karnali River for the upcoming rafting expedition.

The flight is filled with scenery as you fly over the diverse captivating landscapes of hills, towns, villages, forests and mountains and come down onto the flat plains of Nepalgunj. After landing at the Nepalgunj Airport, you will reassemble with the rest of your crew members and gather any equipment that is required for the rafting adventure. You will also meet your guide and transport team who will assist you in proceeding to the next part of your journey.

Shortly after your arrival in Nepalgunj, you will have a good meal before taking a scenic drive to the put-in site of the Karnali River, where your rafting expedition commences. The ride winds across charming remote hamlets, lush forests and riversides offering you a remarkable experience of stunning Nepali countryside.

Reaching at Karnali River, we will overnight on its peaceful shore and feel the peace of nature along with the splendorful visions of the moon and stars on the first night.

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

Day 3 is the beginning of your rafting experience in the Karnali River in its raging and foamy rapids. This serene and isolated river presents some powerful and challenging rapids and thus is an ideal location for thrilling rafting excursions. Your 507-kilometer Karnali River rafting expedition will begin officially filled with thrills and beauty.

After a safety briefing and a quick gear check, we will embark on the course of the river through some medium rapids that will serve as an introduction to the more formidable challenges to follow. As you paddle past stunning scenery, you will get the enthralling sight of the riverside tropical green forest, steep cliffs and charming villages. Tonight, we will camp by the river's scenic pristine beaches, under the star canopy, in preparation for the exciting rafting days ahead.

You will journey deeper along the river on day 4 with rapids growing more challenging, so the ride is exciting as well as demanding. The sound of the water grows louder and you will continue rafting with your powerful paddle stroke and complete concentration. On each passing day, you will tackle tough Karnali rapids that in return give you the most exhilarating and adrenaline pumping experience.

You will come face to face with gigantic waves, vertical slopes and also sharp turns when you navigate the turbulent waters of a river amidst breathtaking wilderness. The thrill is most pronounced as you navigate these dominant rapids. At the same time, the unspoiled and virgin natural beauty of the riverland offers a lovely contrast to the intensity of the journey leaving you in awe of both nature's power and serenity.

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

Chisapani Altitude: 200 meters

Drive Distance: around 40 kilometres

Drive Duration: 2 hours

We are on the final day of our river adventure and day 9 of the Karnali River rafting itinerary. After having a camp rest in the morning, we will get back onto the river one more time to negotiate the final run of rapids. The rapids are not as intense as those you have had until now and provide you with a chance to enjoy the serenity of the river as you row toward the take out point.

You will have a sense of achievement in concluding this wonderful Karnali River rafting adventure successfully. After reaching the take out location we will all celebrate the victory with pride as a team getting off of the raft.

We will leave the river once we complete unloading and packing our gear. From here you will have the choice to return to Kathmandu or further enjoy the adventure by discovering Bardiya National Park.

Departing from Karnali River, we will embark on the road trip to Chisapani. The drive is picturesque in leading you through countryside villages and landscapes which gives you ample time to unwind from the rafting adventure.

As you arrive at the charming riverside village of Chisapani, you are welcomed by its peacefulness. With scenic and tranquil atmosphere and proximity to Trishuli River Chisapani is perfect to unwind at after the thrilling rafting activity.

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

Drive Distance: around 420 kilometers

Drive Duration: around 16 hours

Flight Duration: 1 hour

Following a fulfilling and unforgettable journey down the Karnali River, it is now time to return back to Kathmandu. Based on your choice, there are two convenient options for your return: by road or flight.

If you want to come back to Kathmandu by flight the journey will begin with a transfer from Chisapani to the nearest airport which will be most probably Surkhet or Birendranagar Airport. You will take a ride for around 3 to 4 hours from Chisapani to the airport to catch a flight to Kathmandu.

Flying over the scenic landscape of Nepal, you will gradually land at the wide urban sprawl of the Kathmandu Valley. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representatives will receive you for your transfer to the hotel marking the end of the journey. This is a more comfortable option and gets you back to Kathmandu with ease and comfort.

For the scenery lovers, a scenic drive from Chisapani to Kathmandu is the ideal means of appreciating the Nepal's diverse landscapes one more time. Rural villages, forest, terraced fields and winding mountain roads lie ahead on this journey.

In Kathmandu, there will be a little bit of free time where you can move around the city or just rest at your hotel. You might also spend time shopping for souvenirs, visiting some nearby attractions or just relaxing in one of the fine cafes or restaurants of the capital.

  • Meals: Breakfast
Cost Details
Includes
  • Private or shared transportation as per the selected itinerary, including Kathmandu–Surkhet road travel or Kathmandu–Nepalgunj flight option.
  • Airport, hotel, and rafting-point transfers by suitable vehicle.
  • Experienced, professional, and trained Karnali River rafting guide and support crew.
  • All necessary rafting equipment, including raft, paddles, safety gear, helmets, and life jackets.
  • Comprehensive river safety briefing and equipment check before rafting begins.
  • Full-board meals during the expedition as mentioned in the itinerary: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
  • Camping accommodation along the Karnali River, including camping equipment and riverbank campsites.
  • Hotel/guesthouse accommodation in Surkhet as specified in the itinerary.
  • River expedition support, including camp setup, meals preparation, and rafting logistics.
  • Transportation from the Karnali River take-out point to Chisapani.
  • Assistance with packing and transporting rafting equipment throughout the expedition.
  • Applicable local staff, rafting crew, and basic trip management services.
Excludes
  • International and domestic airfare unless specifically included in your selected package.
  • Nepal visa fees, travel insurance, and personal medical or evacuation insurance.
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, internet, drinks, snacks, and shopping.
  • Alcoholic beverages and bottled or packaged drinks unless specifically mentioned.
  • Personal rafting clothing and footwear, such as quick-dry clothes, river shoes, and thermal layers.
  • Emergency evacuation, medical treatment, rescue costs, or expenses caused by unforeseen circumstances.
  • Additional hotel accommodation and meals required because of flight delays, road closures, weather, or other unexpected events.
  • Tips and gratuities for rafting guides, drivers, cooks, porters, and support staff.
  • Optional Bardia National Park safari or wildlife activities after completing the rafting expedition.
  • Any services, activities, transportation, accommodation, or meals not specifically mentioned in the itinerary or inclusions.
What to Bring
  • Shorts or half-length pants
  • T-shirts
  • Quick-dry long shirts (polypropylene is recommended)
  • Track pants or other comfortable long pants
  • Warm fleece and a waterproof jacket for cooler weather
  • Pajamas or something comfortable to sleep in
  • Swimwear for water activities
  • Warm hat for cold months
  • Sport sandals or water-friendly shoes that stay secure on your feet
  • Optional lightweight shoes; heavy boots are not necessary
  • Travel towel
  • Sunscreen and lip protection
  • Mosquito repellent
  • Water bottle
  • Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
  • Personal toiletries
  • Basic personal first aid kit
  • Sleeping bag (complimentary rental available if needed)
  • A bit of cash for small treats, tips, or to capture moments with a local photographer
Dates and Availability
Select a Departure Month
Departure Date
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Departure Date
Oct 15, 2026 - Oct 24, 202610 Days
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Guaranteed
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US$1250US$1299Save US$49
Departure Date
Oct 25, 2026 - Nov 03, 202610 Days
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US$1250US$1299Save US$49
Departure Date
Oct 31, 2026 - Nov 09, 202610 Days
Status
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US$1250US$1299Save US$49

Karnali River Rafting Fixed Departure 2026 – Booking Open!

Experience the ultimate adventure on Nepal’s longest and wildest river! Our Karnali River Rafting fixed departures for 2026 are now open for booking. If your group size is above 6+ People people we can run trip as per your interst date, you dont need to wait for Departure Date. 

Trip Map
Karnali River Rafting Map
Essential Information

Best Karnali River Rafting Adventure in Nepal

Karnali River Rafting is a perfect choice for travelers looking for an exciting and remote adventure in Nepal. Known as Nepal’s longest and largest river, the Karnali flows through the spectacular western region, offering powerful rapids, dramatic landscapes, deep canyons, forests, and peaceful river sections. This multi-day rafting journey combines adrenaline, nature, and exploration in one unforgettable experience. Away from crowded tourist areas, the Karnali rafting trip provides a genuine wilderness adventure and an excellent opportunity to discover the untouched beauty of Nepal’s Wild West.

Thrilling Whitewater Rafting on the Karnali River

The Karnali River Rafting Expedition offers some of the most exciting whitewater experiences in Nepal. The opening sections of the river feature powerful currents, challenging rapids, and continuous action that can feel like a natural roller-coaster ride. Experienced rafting crews guide travelers through the exciting sections while surrounded by spectacular mountain and canyon scenery. As the river journey continues, the rapids become more moderate, allowing you to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. This combination makes Karnali whitewater rafting an excellent adventure for thrill seekers.

Explore Nepal’s Remote Wild West by Raft

A Karnali rafting adventure takes you far away from Nepal’s busy cities and popular tourist routes into the remote Wild West. The journey passes through isolated valleys, rugged cliffs, dense forests, and pristine river landscapes that remain largely untouched. With few roads, settlements, and signs of modern life along many sections, the expedition creates a genuine sense of wilderness and discovery. Travelers can enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the river while experiencing some of Nepal’s most dramatic natural scenery. It is an ideal Nepal adventure tour for those seeking something truly different.

Scenic Karnali River Journey Through Untouched Nature

The changing scenery is one of the greatest attractions of Karnali River Rafting in Nepal. The expedition travels through dramatic gorges, mountain landscapes, thick forests, remote valleys, and beautiful riverside areas. After the exciting whitewater sections, calmer stretches of the river provide time to appreciate the surrounding wilderness. The pristine environment and limited human development make the journey feel like a true expedition into nature. For photographers, outdoor enthusiasts, and adventure travelers, the Karnali River journey offers countless opportunities to experience and capture the raw beauty of western Nepal.

Relax on Pristine Beaches Along the Karnali River

The Karnali rafting trip is not only about challenging rapids and adrenaline. Along the calmer sections, travelers can discover beautiful sandy river beaches surrounded by peaceful wilderness. These pristine locations provide an ideal atmosphere for relaxing, enjoying the scenery, and experiencing the natural rhythm of the river. The contrast between powerful whitewater and tranquil beaches makes the Karnali expedition particularly rewarding. Spending time beside the river, surrounded by forests, cliffs, and untouched landscapes, adds a memorable camping and nature experience to this remarkable river rafting adventure in Nepal.

Karnali River Rafting and Bardia National Park

One of the most attractive features of the Karnali River Rafting Expedition is its connection with Bardia National Park, a famous wildlife destination in western Nepal. The rafting journey eventually reaches the wilderness around the park, creating an excellent opportunity to combine river adventure with jungle exploration. Travelers can extend their trip with a Bardia Jungle Safari and discover Nepal’s rich wildlife and natural landscapes. Combining rafting and safari creates a diverse Nepal holiday featuring whitewater adventure, jungle scenery, wildlife, and peaceful wilderness in one unforgettable journey.

Karnali River – From Mount Kailash to Nepal

The Karnali has a fascinating geographical and spiritual connection with the Himalayas. The river rises in the sacred Himalayan region near Mount Kailash in Tibet before flowing south into Nepal. As it travels through western Nepal, it becomes a powerful river surrounded by dramatic mountains, deep valleys, forests, and remote landscapes. This remarkable origin adds cultural and geographical interest to the Karnali River Rafting experience. Travelers are not simply navigating a river; they are following one of the great waterways of the Himalayan region into the spectacular and less-explored landscapes of Nepal.

Perfect Mix of Adventure and Relaxation

A major advantage of the Karnali River Rafting Nepal experience is its natural balance between excitement and relaxation. The journey begins with challenging whitewater sections that provide plenty of thrills for adventure lovers. Later, the river gradually becomes calmer, creating opportunities to float peacefully and enjoy the surrounding wilderness. This changing pace makes the expedition more than a nonstop rafting challenge. You can experience powerful rapids, quiet river stretches, beautiful beaches, forests, and remote landscapes during the same journey. It is an excellent option for travelers who want both adventure and nature in Nepal.

Authentic Multi-Day River Expedition in Nepal

Unlike short rafting trips close to major tourist cities, Karnali River Rafting is a genuine multi-day river expedition designed for travelers who want deeper exploration. Spending several days on the river allows you to experience changing landscapes, exciting rapids, peaceful floating sections, remote beaches, and untouched wilderness. The journey provides a stronger connection with nature and a true feeling of adventure and exploration. With its remote setting and spectacular scenery, the Karnali rafting expedition is especially appealing to experienced adventurers and travelers searching for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience in Nepal.

Why Choose Karnali River Rafting in Nepal?

Choose Karnali River Rafting for an unforgettable combination of whitewater excitement, remote wilderness, scenic beauty, and wildlife. From powerful rapids and dramatic canyons to peaceful beaches, dense forests, and the wilderness near Bardia National Park, every stage of the journey offers something different. The expedition takes you into Nepal’s Wild West, where the landscape remains remarkably pristine and far from crowded tourist destinations. For adventure seekers looking for one of the most memorable Nepal rafting tours, the Karnali River offers an extraordinary journey filled with nature, excitement, exploration, and lasting memories.

Karnali River Rafting - 10 Days Expeditions FAQs

The Karnali River offers a mix of rapids ranging from Class III to Class V that are suitable for amateur and professional rafters alike. There are moderate rapids in some sections as well as more challenging ones in others. Average fitness and basic swimming skills are required to ride the rapids safely.

While having experience can be helpful in navigating the intense Karnali River rapids, you don't compulsorily need it. Many first-timers have done it safely with proper training and guidance from experienced rafting guides. Our guides will train and prepare you properly for the adventure and provide instructions along the way.

The Karnali River rafting tour is typically 7 to 10 days depending on your tour package. The tour includes rafting on different sections of the river, camping along the riverbanks and viewing the natural and cultural landscape of the region.

Yes, rafting on the Karnali River is safe when proper safety measures are followed. It is mainly the adventure for experienced rafters featuring steep rapids ranging from Class IV to Class V. However, enthusiast rafters can join the adventure with proper caution and under the guidance of professionals.

Our crew of fully qualified guides who are certified in Whitewater River Guiding, Swift Water Rescue and Wilderness First Aid ensures your safety as well as add to your overall experience with their indepth knowledge. Likewise, every trip has professional safety kayakers to go along with you and First aid kits are also available on site for quick action in case of an emergency.

We equip you with high-quality and safe rafting gear to make you feel comfortable and secure throughout the trip. This includes ISO/CE approved helmets, paddles, splash jackets, life jackets and wetsuits. You can keep your personal belongings dery and secure in pelican boxes and dry bags provided by us. Our team also carries necessary camping gear including sleeping bags, mattresses and additional tents to ensure your experience of camping along the river is enjoyable and cozy.

Yes, private rafting trips are offered subject to availability and the size of your group. Private tours provide you with a personalized experience with more flexibility in terms of pace, stops and activities.

Weather can change quickly on the river and guides are trained to handle this. If there is a sudden change in weather, the guide will assess the situation and can alter the trip accordingly.

Yes, the Karnali River is surrounded with abundant ecosystem and you expect to see dolphins, crocodiles, birds and wildlife during the rafting trip. The river runs through the protected area of the Bardiya National Park where you encounter a rich variety of wild creatures.

Yes, we strongly recommend that you purchase insurance before your rafting adventure. It will protect you from medical issues, trip cancellations, delayed bags or evacuation. Rafting insurance will enable you to have a good time enjoying the adventure without any concern about unexpected situations.

During the rafting trip, it is our advice to have a waterproof container to store your valuable stuff like a phone, camera, cash and other important small things. Those things that you won't require on the raft can be securely stored with our support team or at the camp. We also provide a gear raft that carries camping and personal essentials dry and safe. 

We provide you with all the equipment that you require for a smooth river camping experience like tents, sleeping bags and mattresses. Our team will do everything they can to ensure you have a comfortable experience.

Likewise, we provide a selection of hygienically prepared food along with tea, coffee and hot chocolate to keep your energy levels up. Clean treated drinking water is also always there for you to drink.

Yes, we offer the flexibility of customizing your rafting tour to your own schedule and needs. If you need to alter the duration, add activities or visit certain places, we will help you make it so. Simply fill out a form on our website and our agents will assist you in customizing a trip to your needs.

Tipping your rafting guide is not mandatory. If you feel that you would like to show appreciation for the excellent service your guide has provided you and allowed you to have an amazing experience, it is up to you to do so with a tip of your choice.

Yes! You can be a part of our rafting tour even if you are alone. We will pair you with another solo traveler or group of rafters to join for the rafting adventure. This way, you could interact with new people from other parts of the world and experience the fun of rafting and teamwork with them.

We normally take 16 or fewer people per rafting excursion. In case you are in a big group, we can divide the group into sub groups and assign a guide for each group. This makes it possible for every individual to enjoy a comfortable and safe rafting experience. However, there should be at least 4 rafters to a raft.

Price From US$1250US$1299
SaveUS$49
Group Discount Price
Number of travelerPrice per person
4 - 5 pax
US$1250
6 - 8 pax
US$1150
9 - 12 pax
US$1099
13 - 16 pax
US$999
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Shankar Adhikari
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