Rafting · Nuwakot
Trishuli River Rafting from Nuwakot
Nepal's most accessible whitewater — fun, splashy Trishuli rapids near Nuwakot for all levels.
Rafting the Trishuli River near Nuwakot is the easiest way into Nepal's whitewater. The river offers fun, splashy rapids in a green river valley, runs alongside the main highway for easy access, and is gentle enough for beginners and families while still giving a real river adventure. It is one of the country's most popular day and overnight trips.
The short answer
Book a half-day, full-day or overnight Trishuli trip and you'll get mostly Class II–III rapids — lively, wet and forgiving — through a scenic gorge. Trips are simple to arrange from Kathmandu, Pokhara or a Nuwakot stay, and pair well with a quiet visit to the sacred Devighat confluence where the Trishuli meets the Tadi below the town.
What to expect on the river
The Trishuli's rapids carry names like Upset, Ladies' Delight and Surprise — splashy and exciting without being seriously technical in normal water. Between rapids the river slows to drift past terraced hills, suspension bridges and riverside villages, with sandy beaches for lunch stops and, on longer trips, overnight camping under the stars. High monsoon flows turn the river faster and more powerful, best left to experienced groups.
The river is also one of Nepal's most scenic and storied stretches of water. It flows down from the high Himalaya, gathers the holy waters of the Devighat confluence below Nuwakot, and threads a green gorge lined with temples, ferries and farming hamlets. Many trips end at Kuringhat, Mugling or Charaudi along the highway, making logistics simple. Because the put-ins and take-outs sit right on the road, you can run the river without committing to a long expedition — ideal if you're folding rafting into a wider trip through central Nepal.
Planning your trip
- Levels: Mostly Class II–III; great for first-timers, bigger and bouncier in high water.
- Length: From a couple of hours up to a two-day camping trip; pick to suit your time.
- Operators: Always go with a licensed company using qualified guides, helmets and life jackets.
- Season: Autumn and spring are ideal — see our guide to the best time to visit Nuwakot.
Good to know
- Wear quick-drying clothes and secure footwear; bring sunscreen and a dry bag for valuables.
- Be honest about your swimming ability in the safety briefing.
- Combine rafting with the hilltop Nuwakot Durbar for a history-and-adventure day.
For the bigger picture, read our national guides to Trishuli River rafting and rafting in Nepal, then see the full Nuwakot travel guide and our roundup of the top things to do in Nuwakot.
Frequently asked questions
How hard is rafting on the Trishuli River?+
The Trishuli is one of Nepal's gentler, more accessible whitewater rivers, with mostly Class II–III rapids that are fun and splashy without being technical. It suits first-timers, families and groups, while still offering livelier sections in high water for those wanting more of a thrill.
Can you raft the Trishuli as a day trip?+
Yes. Because the river runs alongside the Kathmandu–Pokhara highway, short half-day and full-day trips are easy to arrange, and many travellers add a Trishuli run to a Nuwakot visit or a journey between the two cities. Overnight trips with riverside camping are also popular.
When is the best time to raft the Trishuli?+
The river runs year-round, but autumn (October–November) and spring (March–May) offer the best mix of pleasant weather and good water levels. The monsoon (June–September) brings high, powerful flows for experienced rafters, while winter is cooler but still runnable.
Is Trishuli rafting safe for beginners?+
With a reputable operator, qualified guides, helmets and life jackets, the Trishuli is a good first whitewater experience. Always choose a licensed company, follow the safety briefing and be honest about swimming ability. The river's forgiving character is exactly why it is so popular with newcomers.
