Sun Koshi Rafting Expedition
The Sun Koshi rafting expedition, on the "River of Gold", is one of the classic multi-day river journeys in the world. Over about 8 days on the water, you raft roughly 270 km from Dolalghat in the hills east of Kathmandu, through remote gorges and villages, to Chatara on the edge of the Terai, running big Grade III+ to V rapids and camping every night on white sandy beaches.
Suitable for adventurous, fit participants; previous rafting experience is helpful but not essential. Experienced river guides, safety kayakers, all equipment, riverside camps and meals, transport and the flight back from Biratnagar are included.
Trip highlights
- About 270 km of river from the hills to the plains
- Big Grade III+ to V rapids
- Camping on sandy beaches
- Remote gorges and villages
- Experienced river guides and safety kayakers
Short itinerary
View detailed itinerary- Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu 1,400 m
- Day 2 Drive to Dolalghat, start rafting 600 m
- Day 3 Rafting day 2
- Day 4 Rafting day 3
- Day 5 Rafting day 4
- Day 6 Rafting day 5
- Day 7 Rafting day 6
- Day 8 Rafting day 7
- Day 9 Raft to Chatara, drive to Biratnagar, fly to Kathmandu 1,400 m
- Day 10 Departure from Kathmandu 1,400 m
Sun Koshi Rafting Expedition overview
Quick answer: this expedition takes 10 days from Kathmandu, with about 8 days on the Sun Koshi from Dolalghat to Chatara (about 270 km). Rapids range from Grade III+ to V. It costs from US$1,290 per person. Best seasons are September–November and April–June.
The Sun Koshi is a pool-drop river: big, bouncy rapids followed by calm stretches where you can swim, relax and take in the scenery of hills, forests and villages that see very few outsiders. The biggest rapids can be scouted, and some can be portaged. Read our rafting guide.
At a glance
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 10 days (about 8 on the river) |
| Distance | About 270 km |
| Put-in / take-out | Dolalghat / Chatara |
| Rapids | Grade III+ to V |
| Best time | September–November, April–June |
| Cost | From US$1,290 per person |
Day-by-day itinerary
What’s included
Included
- Airport transfers and 2 nights in a Kathmandu hotel with breakfast
- Transport to Dolalghat and from Chatara to Biratnagar
- Flight Biratnagar – Kathmandu
- Experienced river guides and safety kayakers
- Rafts, paddles, helmets, life jackets and dry bags
- Riverside camping equipment
- All meals on the river
- River permits and local fees
- All government and local taxes
Not included
- International flights and visa
- Travel insurance covering white-water rafting (compulsory)
- Sleeping bag (can be rented)
- Drinks and personal expenses
- Tips for river crew
Useful info
Who can join?
Fit, adventurous participants who can swim and are comfortable in big water. Previous rafting experience is helpful.
Safety
Experienced guides scout the biggest rapids, safety kayakers accompany the rafts, and some rapids can be portaged. Water levels vary by season; we only run when conditions are safe.
Travel insurance
Your insurance must cover multi-day white-water rafting.
Packing list
- Quick-dry clothes and swimwear
- River sandals with heel straps
- Warm layer and fleece for evenings
- Sun hat, sunglasses with strap and high-factor sunscreen
- Head torch
- Waterproof camera
Add-ons & trip options
Choose add-ons and quantities on the booking form.
More options, quoted on request:
- Shorter trips on the Trishuli or Seti.
- Koshi Tappu birdwatching after the river.
Frequently asked questions
10 days from Kathmandu, with about 8 days on the river.
About 270 km, from Dolalghat to Chatara.
Grade III+ to V; the biggest can be scouted or portaged.
Helpful but not essential; you must be fit and able to swim.
September–November and April–June.
From US$1,290 per person.
In tents on riverside beaches.
Drive to Biratnagar and fly to Kathmandu.