The Sun Koshi River, often called the “River of Gold,” is one of Nepal’s most famous and longest rafting rivers. Flowing from the Tibetan Plateau through eastern Nepal and eventually joining the Koshi River system, the Sun Koshi offers an unforgettable multi-day rafting experience through remote landscapes, traditional villages, and spectacular gorges.
Location & Access:
The rafting trip usually starts at Dumja or Khurkot, about 3–4 hours’ drive from Kathmandu, and ends near Chatara in eastern Nepal. Because of its length and remoteness, Sun Koshi rafting is typically done as a long expedition-style trip.
01: Rafting Grade & Difficulty
02: River Grade: III to IV+
03: Suitable for: Adventurous beginners, intermediate, and experienced rafters
04: The river features long stretches of continuous rapids, big wave trains, technical sections, and calmer floats in between.
Duration of Trip:
01: Typical duration: 7 to 10 days.
02: Shorter sections (3–5 days) are possible, but the full journey is highly recommended for the complete experience.
Best Season for Rafting:
01; Autumn (September–November): Best water levels, warm weather, clear skies
02: Spring (March–May): Slightly lower water, excellent scenery
Monsoon (June–August): Very high water, only for experienced rafters
Major Rapids
Some of the most exciting rapids include:
01: Meat Grinder
02: Pre-Anus
03: High Anxiety
04: Big Dipper
05: Dead Man’s Eddy:
These rapids make the Sun Koshi one of the most thrilling rivers in Asia.
Scenery & Cultural Experience:
Sun Koshi rafting is not just about adventure. Along the way, rafters enjoy:
01; Lush forests and deep river gorges
02: Sandy beaches ideal for camping
03: Views of terraced farmland and hills
04: Encounters with local Rai, Tamang, Sherpa, and Brahmin villages
05: Traditional fishing methods and rural lifestyles
Camping & Food:
01: Riverside beach camping every night
02: Fully supported trips include tents, sleeping mats, and kitchen equipment
03: Freshly prepared meals by professional river cooks
04: Campfires, stargazing, and relaxed evenings by the river
Wildlife & Nature:
01: Exotic bird species
02: Langur monkeys
03: Occasional sightings of deer and river wildlife
04: Rich aquatic life and subtropical vegetation
Required Permits:
01: No special trekking permits required
02: Rafting operators handle all logistics and safety arrangements
Safety:
01: Professional guides with international river certifications
02: Safety kayakers on difficult sections
03:Helmets, life jackets, and safety briefings provided
04: First-aid and rescue equipment carried at all times
The Sunkoshi, also spelled Sunkosi, is a river that is part of the Koshi or Saptkoshi River system in Nepal. Sunkoshi has two source streams, one that arises within Nepal in Choukati, and the other more significant stream that flows in from Nyalam County in the Tibet region of China.
You will be welcomed by our representative at International airport and transfer to hotel, check-in and rest. Overnight at hotel (breakfast included).
After breakfast, early in the morning, we will leave for our put-in point, Dolalghat. Before the rafting starts, our guides will give you instructions on how to use the equipment and tips on how to remain safe. In Dolalghat, lower Bhotekoshi meets Indrawati and forms the Sun Koshi River. We will start to raft on the Sun Koshi (“the river of gold” in Nepali). The start will be smooth with a few rapids, which will give us some practice and warm-up for the rapids that are yet to come. Towards the end of the day, you will experience the first of many Class III rapids. We will set up our camp at Pachuwarghat for the night’s rest.
When the night falls, we will set up a campfire. While basking in the warmth of the campfire, we will have little chit-chat. We will share our own stories, and if you are happy with sharing your own stories, you can do so, too
After breakfast, early in the morning, we will start from Pachuwarghat and reach Chainpur. We will face a couple of exciting Class II and Class III Sun Koshi rapids. However, as we raft, you must take your time and observe the beautiful Nepalese countryside. When we reach the Hindu holy temple, Kusheswor, the BP highway runs parallel to our rafting route. As we continue rafting down the river, you will see Majhee Gaun (which means fisher’s village in Nepali).
True to its name, the inhabitants of this village make a living by catching fish. By the time we reach Chainpur, it will be evening, so we will set our camp at Chainpur by the side of the Sun Koshi River. As you rest and loosen yourself, our team will prepare tasty food. After our meal, before sleeping, we will have some time for ourselves. We are open to all feasible ideas that entertain or inform us
This will be another exciting day for us. After breakfast, we start to paddle down the Sun Koshi. Within a short period of time, we will see Tama Koshi joining Sun Koshi, increasing its volume. At first, the waters were quite calm, and paddling was easy, but slowly, the water currents of the Sun Koshi increased, and we had to pay attention to paddling. As the evening approaches, we will stop rafting and set a camp at Jhagare.
Day four of the Sun Koshi Rafting itinerary will test our team spirit as we encounter the famous Harkapur II (Class IV) rapids. After some paddling, we will see Dudh Koshi and join Sun Koshi. Depending on the season and water levels, the rapids may or may not be runnable. We’ll make a careful group decision, as we always prioritize safety. Our Sun Koshi River camping site for the day would be the beautiful Raighat beach, where you can rest and refresh.
After breakfast, we will start rafting again and we will meet some exciting rapids such as Jaws Rapid (Class IV-), followed by the notorious “Dead Man Eddy”. The main highlight of this day’s rafting is the rapid “Rhino Rock” (Class IV). True to its name, this rhinoceros horn looks like a rapid. How we pass this rapid depends on the level of water and the guide’s decision. We will set up our camp for the night at Rasuwaghat by the Sun Koshi riverside.
As we continue rafting down the river, we will encounter tropical vegetation. Sun Koshi becomes narrower, and we will pass through a region referred to as the “Jungle Corridor,” which is full of continuous rapids. As we move ahead, we come across a series of unspoiled and serene waterfalls. Today’s camp will be near the Waterfall by the side of the Sun Koshi.
The waters of the Sun Koshi are calmer now. We can relax as we pass through smaller waves. However, on the way, we will come across two exciting rapids – Big Dipper and Black Hole (Class III). Soon, Arun and Tamor mixed with Sun Koshi at Tribeni (which means the confluence of three rivers in Nepal). A total of seven rivers have now joined Sun Koshi, and it is now called Sapta (which in Nepali means seven) Koshi. Our camp on that day will be at Tribeni.
After breakfast, we will raft for some time until we reach the famous Baraha temple. We will spend some time sightseeing, then we will paddle to Chatara – our final put-in point. We will have our lunch at a local restaurant. From Chatara, we will take a private bus and drive for about 14 to 15 hours to reach Kathmandu. We will stop our bus on the way for dinner at a Nepali restaurant.
You can choose to stop at Chitwan National Park to enjoy the wildlife. There is one more option: you may go to Biratnagar from Chatara and then fly to Kathmandu. If you want to do so, please mention it when you book your trip.
Today, you will have the opportunity to spend leisure time in Kathmandu. After breakfast at your hotel, you can freely explore around the city and shop for souvenirs to take with you back home. In the evening, we will host a farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant. You will feast on traditional Nepalese cuisine. During the dinner, you can reflect on the adventure and the memorable time you had during the expedition. You can also provide us with your feedback. After the dinner, you can head back to your hotel or enjoy Kathmandu’s nightlife.
A representative from our agency will drop you off at Tribhuvan International Airport two to three hours prior to your scheduled departure time. We hope you enjoyed your time with us.
If you want to explore more of Nepal, you can also extend your stay. You can always ask us for additional trips. We offer a wide range of white water rafting trips, multi-day expeditions, and family adventure packages.
- Expert English-Speaking Guides: Licensed and highly trained guides, certified in Whitewater River Guiding, Swift Water Rescue, and Wilderness First Aid, ensure your safety and enhance your experience with their extensive knowledge and skills.
- Dedicated Safety Kayakers: Professional safety kayakers accompany the trip to provide added security and guidance on the water.
- Gear Raft Support: A separate gear raft transports essential equipment, ensuring that personal and camp items are kept safe and dry.
- Quality Rafting Equipment: We provide top-quality, ISO/CE-certified rafting gear, including helmets, personal flotation devices (PFDs), paddles, splash jackets, and wetsuits, to keep you safe and comfortable on the water.
- Dry Bags and Pelican Cases: Secure, waterproof containers for your personal items ensure they stay dry and protected throughout the journey.
- Delicious, Freshly Prepared Meals: A variety of hygienically prepared meals, along with tea, coffee, hot chocolate and treated drinking water, are provided to keep you energized.
- Complete Camping Setup: All necessary camping equipment, including tents, sleeping bags, simple mattresses, and shelters, is provided, making your river camping experience comfortable and enjoyable.
- Round-Trip Transportation: Convenient transportation from the starting point and back to Kathmandu is arranged for you.
- River Permits: All required permits for river access are included.
- Comprehensive First Aid Kits: Industry-standard first aid kits are available on-site, ensuring quick response in case of any incidents.
- Excludes
- Additional Transportation & Accommodation: Costs for unrelated transport, accommodation, visas, travel documents, and departure taxes are not covered.
- Personal Footwear: Please bring suitable footwear as it is not provided.
- Personal Essentials: Items like swimwear, towels, and toiletries are not included, so pack what you need.
- Insurance: While our crew is fully insured, each participant must have a personal emergency medical travel plan.
- Gratuities: Tipping is not required but is appreciated if you feel our crew provided excellent service.
- Domestic Flight Ticket: domestic flight ticket from Bhairawa to Kathmandu on 8th day.
Excludes
- Additional Transportation & Accommodation: Costs for unrelated transport, accommodation, visas, travel documents, and departure taxes are not covered.
- Personal Footwear: Please bring suitable footwear as it is not provided.
- Personal Essentials: Items like swimwear, towels, and toiletries are not included, so pack what you need.
- Insurance: While our crew is fully insured, each participant must have a personal emergency medical travel plan.
- Gratuities: Tipping is not required but is appreciated if you feel our crew provided excellent service.
- Domestic Flight Ticket: domestic flight ticket from Bhairawa to Kathmandu on 8th day.
FAQAS
The Sunkoshi River rafting trip is 8 to 10 days long. Our itinerary is 8 days long. You will raft 270 km on this rafting adventure.
For Sunkoshi River rafting, we employ state-of-the-art, ISO/CE-approved equipment including helmets, personal flotation devices (PFDs), splash jackets, wetsuits and paddles. To protect personal equipment, waterproof dry bags and Pelican cases are also available.
In addition to rafting gear, we provide camping gear. We have tents, sleeping bags, mattresses that form part of our gear and these ensure a peaceful night’s lodging on the river. Additionally, the first aid kits are also readily available, for immediate response to minor injuries or medical concerns.
The Sunkoshi River Rafting adventure begins from Dolalghat which lies at 620 m. In a timeframe of 9 days, the journey ends at Chatara which sits at 115 m. During the journey, you can witness the beauty of the distinct terrains of Nepal. After your adventure ends at the beautiful Chatara, you can use ground transportation or opt for a flight from Biratnagar.
Yes, you need to get travel insurance for Sunkoshi River rafting. It is a multi-day rafting excursion. You will be in different remote areas. Since white-water rafting carries risks, it’s wise to take a policy covering adventure sports. Travel insurance provides for costs incurred due to accidents, injuries, or medical evacuations.
Likewise, lost baggage, and other unforeseen circumstances that may interrupt the journey, the financial coverage against trip cancellations or delays due to adverse weather conditions or natural disasters, or emergency evacuation is also covered.
You should check the policy and be certain that your policy includes high-risk adventure sports. It provides you with peace of mind and you can enjoy the journey while knowing that you are financially secured.
If the weather is not good while on your Sunkoshi River rafting the team leaders will assess the situation and take necessary actions to ensure safety. Adverse weather conditions like a heavy downpour can increase water levels, making rapids risky. In such cases, the guides can choose to delay rafting and find a safer campsite. They may even pause the trip for some time until the weather improves.
Likewise, conditions like strong winds or storms can also be risky. Under such conditions, the itinerary will be adjusted or even cut short. The rafting leaders are trained to handle these situations. They will always prefer caution. The rafting crew is proactive. They will make necessary arrangements to ensure safety.
Tipping the guides is expected and appreciated but not mandatory. Guides and crew members work hard to make the trip enjoyable and safe. From guiding through difficult rapids to camping, cooking and sharing interesting tales about the area, they work hard to make your experience an unforgettable one. Tipping them is a nice way of showing appreciation for their hard work.
While it is not obligatory, it is a way to appreciate the crew’s hard work.
The Sunkoshi River Rafting excursion lasts for 9 days. So, you will need the essentials to stay secure and comfortable. You should make a checklist and pack all the required items thoughtfully. Some essentials that you must pack for the rafting journey are as follows:
Sport Sandals
Lightweight shoes
Waterproof jackets
Warm fleece Jackets
Quick-dry long-sleeve shirts
Shorts
River Sandals
T-shirts
Comfortable Long Pants
Track pants
Pajamas
Swimwear for water activities
Warm hats for colder months
Mosquito repellent
Sunscreen
Lip balm
Reusable water bottle
Towel
Toothbrush
Headlamps
Flashlights
Basic first aid kit
Sleeping bag
Cash
Power Bank
Personal Medications
High Energy Snacks
Small Dry Bags
Light Day pack
Sunglasses
Sun hats
Identification Documents
Yes, you can bring a camera or phone while rafting. As Sunkoshi river rafting is a multi day adventure, you will need your smartphones. However, you should take precautions to protect them from water damage. You can store it in waterproof or dry bags. Likewise, you can also ask guides or rafting crew to store the devices safely.
The rafting guides are highly professional and can speak Nepali and English. Thus, communication will be easy for the international rafters. The guides speak fluent English. They will briefly explain safety procedures, paddling skills, and tour timetables, making all participants well-informed about the tour which will help them have a smooth experience.
Furthermore, guides provide detailed information on emergency actions and team strategies, all in English for international adventurers. Apart from ensuring safety, they enhance the experience by providing fun facts concerning areas traversed, local culture and wildlife. This makes the adventure more engaging and also informative
Responsible rafting on Sunkoshi River and being mindful of local culture adds depth to your experience. You need to stick with “Leave No Trace” principle. You can contribute to responsible travel by following little things such as avoiding plastic usage and opting for biodegradable materials. The waste should be discarded only in the designated bins.
If you don’t spot designated dustbins then make sure to carry nonbiodegradable wastes like food wrappers and plastic bottles and dispose the wastes later at designated bins. Likewise, you need to maintain a safe distance from local wildlife. You can view them from afar without disturbing their habitats.
You will visit temples during the journey. So, make sure to respect the religious sites and local customs. This helps you bond with people and have deeper connections and places visited along the way. Following sustainable practices and respecting the local culture allows you to have a once in a lifetime adventure and protect the beauty of the Sunkoshi River.
Yes, you can do the Tamur River Rafting as a solo traveler. You can book the Sun Koshi Rafting and we will arrange other solo travelers or include you in groups. Rafting and camping with other fellow adventurers from around the globe is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You can build new friends and make many memories which you will cherish forever.
You can make payments in Nepalese Rupees or US Dollars in cash. We accept online payments and credit cards too for which additional fees can be applied. You can choose any mode of payment that is easier for you when booking the Sunkoshi River Rafting package.
Yes, we provide safety briefings and training before the rafting trip. Our guides will provide a detailed safety briefing before ensuring that all participants are aware of potential risks and the way to minimize them. You will be informed about the challenges that lie ahead. This helps you know what to expect on the water.
The safety briefing will cover the wearing of safety equipment such as helmets and life jackets and paddling techniques. In addition, the practical training sessions are also held before beginning the trip. In these sessions you will learn about how to grip in case of rough waters, ensuring proper balance and maintaining good teamwork to navigate rapids efficiently.
The safety briefings ensure that everyone is well-prepared for the adventure ahead.
Yes, we can make adjustments to the Sunkoshi River Rafting Itinerary. We can craft itineraries taking your interest into account on specific river sections you’d like to cover.
Likewise, if you wish to include other activities such as riverbank camping, extra rest days or trip extension to visit nearby places we will design the itinerary accordingly. You can request customization of the itinerary in advance by filling out a customization form at our website and we will frame the itinerary in such a way that the rafting trip is memorable.
During the rafting trip, we will provide you with a variety of freshly prepared meals which will keep you energized throughout the journey. We prepare meals ensuring both quality and taste. Along with nutritious food, we also provide tea, coffee and hot chocolate which will help you stay warm and refreshed. To ensure hydration and safety, treated drinking water is provided throughout the trip.
The cost of Sunkoshi River Rafting begins from US$ 1299. The Sunkoshi River Rafting package cost includes skilled English-speaking guides who are licensed and certified in Whitewater River Guiding and Swift Water Rescue. Likewise, the dedicated safety kayakers will also accompany you during the trip.
The package includes the cost of ISO/CE-certified rafting equipment, dry bags, and Pelican cases for keeping personal items dry from water. Likewise, the cost of food and beverages is also covered by the package. The cost of needed camping equipment, round-trip ground transportation, river permits, and full first aid kits are also included in the package ensuring a hassle-free adventure.
The personal expenses are not covered by the Sunkoshi River Rafting package. Costs that are unrelated to the package such as additional transport, accommodation, visas, travel arrangements, and taxes on departure are not covered. Please note, that personal shoes are not provided, so you are requested to bring your footwear.
Likewise, the package does not cover the cost of toiletries, swimming gear, and personal towels, which you have to arrange on your own. Every participant must buy their travel insurance, and its cost is not included in the rafting package. Lastly, domestic flight tickets are not part of the package and must be booked independently.
The Sunkoshi River Rafting provides a range of rapids from Class III to Class V which varies in difficulty. The Class III rapids are moderate. They consist of exciting waves and currents. These rapids will be enjoyable. They also provide an opportunity to learn while experiencing the thrill. Class IV rapids are more powerful with larger waves.
It is suitable for advanced rafters. The Class IV rapid requires skills and good coordination. The Class V rapids are challenging. They are turbulent, fast and difficult. However, the experienced guides will look after your safety and make sure that you enjoy every part of the adventure.
The most famous rapids on this rafting trip include Meat Grinder, which is a technical and powerful Class IV+ rapid. This rapid feature features tough characteristics and is technical. Punch and Judy is also a famous rapid that features repetitive waves that make up an exciting run.
The trip also includes High Anxiety, a ride by high-volume water. In addition, the thrilling waves of this rapid, is challenging as well as exciting for the rafters. Another popular rapid is Harkapur. It is one of the most challenging and exciting Class V rapids.
We have crafted a 9 itinerary ensuring that every part of the journey is enjoyable. The adventure begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Dolalghat. After arriving you will receive a thorough safety briefing as your rafting journey begins. The first-day experience provides the foundation for the action-filled adventure ahead. You can enjoy the journey with qualified guides who guarantee safety and provide expert guidance along the way.
Then, you will raft from Day 2 to Day 8 through a series of intense rapids, and deep gorges. The sights of jungle terrains are beautiful. You will get glimpses of villages during the trip.
Likewise, you can also interact with the locals during temple visits. There are various stops along the route where you can explore waterfalls and the unique bat caves. The rafting period from Day 2 to Day 8 offers an experience that is an ideal combination of adventure and sightseeing. On Day 9, you will conclude the trip from Chatara. You will then head back to Kathmandu by road or take a flight.
The Sunkoshi River package cost includes permit fees. The permits are necessary for rafting in the Sunkoshi River and its costs are covered by the rafting package.
There will be no additional fees for permits or other related costs mentioned in the included section of the package. The amount you pay for the trip covers the most necessary stuff from ground transportation, and food during camping, to river permits, and there are no hidden extra charges during your adventure.
During an emergency situation, the top priority will be ensuring the safety of the rafters. Our guides and kayakers are well trained to handle emergency situations. They can perform a rescue operation if someone falls. On your part you need to follow the guide’s directions and ensure that you are wearing safety gear like life jackets and helmets. If anyone gets injured then our well trained crew will administer the first aid and assess if medical attention is required.
In case of other emergencies, we will contact local emergency services and nearby medical facilities. Evacuation will be arranged if the situation is more serious or immediate rescue is required.
The Safety Tips that you must follow During Sunkoshi River Rafting are as follows:
01: Be attentive to your guide’s instructions.
02: Learn basic swimming skills.
03: Maintain good physical fitness.
04: Wear a personal flotation device (PFD) or life jacket, along with a helmet, when in or near the water.
05: Be familiar with paddling techniques.
06: Learn the emergency procedures.
07: Do not consume alcoholic beverages before or during the activity.
08: Wear weather-appropriate clothing.
09: Pack all essentials.
Yes, you should sign a waiver form before joining the Sunkoshi River Rafting. Like every other adventurous activity, rafting does involve some risks. By reading the document, you can understand all the risks associated with rafting and agree with the terms that are set by the company. While safety measures are followed it is important to acknowledge the risks and sign the form confirming that you are aware of them.
Sunkoshi River Rafting
