Kaligandaki is one of the biggest tributaries serving about 54% of the total water to massive rivers like Gandaki, which descends down to the Ganges and Brahmaputra. It originates from two rivulets Kak and Beni which meet up at Kobang and forms Kaligandaki. The main source to the river is at the border with Tibet at an elevation of 6268m at Nhubine Himal glacier in the Mustang region of Nepal. Rafting has been a practice in Kaligandaki since 1981 AD. It is supposedly the holiest river in Nepal.
Rafting in Kaligandaki is a challenging task, as it is one of the deepest gorges in the world. The starting and ending point for this would be Pokhara, although the put-in point is Maldhunga, a 3-hour drive from Pokhara. The river action is about 90 km, which leads to the put-out point Mirmi, an hour drive from Pokhara. The packages for this adventure offer a 3 day trip with overnight camping.
Seasons and levels of rafting
|
Seasons |
Grading |
Water Volume |
|
September-November |
4+ |
Approx. 550 cumecs |
|
April-June |
4+ |
Approx. 200 cumecs |
The beautiful scenery on this remote river makes Kaligandaki rafting/kayaking trip a favorite among those looking for a short to medium-length trip. The Kaligandaki passes through narrow gorges, alongside tumbling waterfalls and jungle. The local dwellers of the nearby traditional Magar and Chhetri villages often venture down to the riverside to meet the rafters with a traditional and friendly 'Namaste!'. There are plenty of opportunities to see the extraordinary Annapurna Mountain range and a variety of wildlife and temples on the river banks.
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