Our Rafting Trip on the Kaligandaki River

Our rafting trip was organized by Paddle Nepal, a highly experienced rafting company known for its strong emphasis on safety.

Each raft had a licensed guide on board, while kayakers followed to assist anyone who might fall out (and to capture photos and videos of the group).

The guides not only prioritized our safety but also infused the experience with enthusiasm and energy, elevating the trip to an even more enjoyable and memorable adventure.

We began by taking a 3-hour bus ride from Lakeside, Pokhara, to the starting point of our adventure.

Upon arrival, we had lunch by the river, followed by a safety briefing. Once we were geared up, it was time to set out on the river.

The rafting itself was exhilarating! Some stretches featured whitewater rapids and fast-moving currents, which provided thrilling, adrenaline-filled moments.

In calmer sections of the river, we had the chance to swim and float alongside the rafts, enjoying the serene beauty of the surroundings.

Along the way, we glimpsed stunning mountain views, spotted monkeys, rafted under several suspension bridges, and waved to locals by the riverbanks.

Each evening, we pulled ashore to set up our camp on sandy beaches. We had the option of sleeping in tents or under a tarp propped up by the rafts. We chose the latter, enjoying the fresh air and the simplicity of the setup.

While the guides prepared dinner on the beach, we played volleyball and card games, and shared stories. After dinner was enjoyed together, and dusk fell, a bonfire was lit, and we spent hours chatting and soaking in the warmth under a blanket of stars.

This rafting trip was truly one of the most memorable experiences of my time in Nepal.

The combination of adrenaline-filled rapids, friendly guides, scenic riverside camps, and fantastic weather made it unforgettable.

I would confidently say (and I’m sure the other students who joined would agree) that this trip was absolutely worth the money.

Not only was it an incredibly fun and unforgettable experience, but it was also well organized and offered so much:

• Professional guides
• Sleeping bags and sleeping mats
• Tents/raft shelters
• Dry bags/boxes
• Splash jackets
• Safety gear (life vests and helmets)
• All meals for the weekend
• Snacks and hot drinks
• Transportation

For future Kulturstudier students, I wholeheartedly recommend this adventure—it's an experience you'll cherish forever.