Touch down in the vibrant city of Kathmandu, where our friendly team will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your comfortable hotel. Spend the day relaxing, adjusting to the altitude, and soaking in the first impressions of Nepal. You’ll also have time to pick up any last-minute items like flip-flops, hats, favorite snacks, or personal gear you planned to buy locally.

In the evening, join us for a welcome dinner and expedition briefing. Meet your guides and fellow adventurers, review the journey ahead, and get ready for the epic whitewater experience that awaits.

Start the day with a quick stop at a local bakery for coffee and pastries, then catch one of our favorite domestic flights—a scenic 45-minute journey with stunning views of the Himalayan range. Upon landing in Nepalgunj, we’ll hit the road for a 3-hour drive to Surkhet, a peaceful town nestled on a hilltop overlooking both the southern plains and distant Himalayan peaks.

Our lodge offers panoramic views, perfect for unwinding—or if you're up for it, sunset paragliding is an unforgettable option.

Rise early for a peaceful sunrise and a hearty breakfast, then take a scenic 3-hour drive to the Karnali River put-in. Upon arrival, you’ll meet the river crew, gear up, enjoy the first river lunch and kick off the adventure with your first rafting stretch on the Karnali.

Today’s paddle is short - just enough to get comfortable on the water and soak in the surroundings. We’ll find a beautiful riverside campsite, settle in, and ease into the rhythm of expedition life under the stars.

Today we dive into the heart of the Karnali, tackling some of its first big-volume Class III+ rapids. As the river picks up momentum, so does the thrill. Expect some powerful waves and the wild beauty that makes this river legendary.

Between rapids, enjoy calm stretches where you can take in lush jungle scenery, spot monkeys or exotic birds, and fully immerse yourself in nature. We’ll stop for lunch along the river and end the day at another stunning riverside campsite, surrounded by the sounds of the forest and flowing water.

By now, you're in rhythm with the river, and Day 5 delivers a mix of exciting Class III–IV rapids. While the big continuous sections are still ahead, today offers plenty of fun whitewater to keep things lively.

We’ll paddle through remote canyons and dense jungle, soaking in the beauty of one of Nepal’s wildest landscapes. As always, we end the day at a peaceful riverside campsite, deepening our connection with the river and the journey.

The Karnali turns up the volume today with long, continuous Class IV sections and powerful wave trains. This is the kind of whitewater that makes Karnali legendary—non-stop fun, technical lines, and big smiles all around.

Surrounded by wild canyons and dense jungle, the river delivers both adrenaline and awe. We’ll finish the day at another secluded riverside campsite, buzzing from the ride and ready for more.

After the big rapids of the past days, today’s paddle is mellow and meditative. The Karnali eases into gentler flow, giving us time to reflect, enjoy the jungle scenery, and soak in the remoteness of the valley.

It’s a peaceful day on the river, perfect for swimming, spotting wildlife, and savoring the calm after the storm. As always, we wrap up with a beautiful riverside camp under the stars.

With the big whitewater behind us, Day 8 is all about flow and freedom. We drift through remote, untouched wilderness, with chances to swim, float, and fully unwind. The Karnali now moves gently, offering space for reflection and connection.

Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife along the banks and enjoy long breaks on sandy beaches. We’ll spend one of our final nights camping in the heart of nature unplugged and completely present.

Today, the Karnali reveals its final contrasts. We paddle through raw jungle landscapes and remote villages, but gradually, the riverbanks begin to shift. Larger settlements, modern bridges, and farmland hint that civilization is drawing closer.

It’s a powerful day of reflection—the wild beauty of western Nepal slowly giving way to the world beyond. We’ll soak in the last quiet stretches of river and camp one final night under the stars, savoring the end of this unforgettable expedition.

As the Karnali flattens out, we drift into Nepal’s southern plains, passing villages and fields before reaching the iconic Chisapani Bridge—the finish line of our epic river adventure.

From here, you have options:

• Hop on a bus or take a short flight back to Kathmandu
• Or head to Bardia National Park for an overnight jungle retreat, perfect for well-earned relaxation

Those choosing Bardia will enjoy a peaceful night and a morning jungle safari, returning to Kathmandu the next day, just in time for our farewell party with the crew.

After days on the river, it's time to treat your body and soul. Enjoy a relaxing day in Kathmandu with options for a spa treatment, massage, or even a fresh pedicure, you’ve earned it!

In the evening, we’ll gather for a final team dinner, sharing stories and laughter from the expedition. Afterward, we hit a local spot for live music and a little boogie-boogie to celebrate our journey one last time, Nepal-style.

After breakfast, we’ll arrange your transfer to the airport for your journey onward, whether you're flying home or off to your next adventure in Nepal. With fresh memories, new friendships, and a heart full of river magic, you leave richer than you arrived.

Namaste and see you on the next trail, river, or mountain!