Babai River Golden Mahseer Angling Expedition - 19 Days
| Trip code | BR-GM-19D |
| Package name | Babai River Golden Mahseer Angling Expedition - 19 Days |
| Duration | 19 |
| Max. elevation | 800 m |
| Level | Easy |
| Transportation | Private Jeep and Domestic round air transfer |
| Accomodation | |
| Starts at | Kathmandu |
| Ends at | Kathmandu |
| Trip route | <p>Kathmandu → Nepalgunj → Babai Chepang → Upper Babai → Middle Babai → Lower Babai → Babai Valley → Bardia National Park → Kathmandu</p> |
| Cost | USD 5,999 per person |
Highlights
- Target Himalayan Golden Mahseer (catch & release)
- Raft-supported drift fishing adventure
- Remote wilderness riverside camping
- Multi-zone Babai River exploration
- Wildlife safari in Bardia National Park
- Expert fishing guides & river crew
- Scenic Babai Valley canyon fishing
- Off-grid Himalayan Terai wilderness experience
Overview
This 19-day expedition explores one of Nepal’s most untouched river systems — the Babai River — famous for its healthy populations of the Golden Mahseer, one of Asia’s most prized sport fish.
Starting from Kathmandu, the journey moves into the lowland Terai region via Nepalgunj, before entering deep wilderness river corridors. Anglers fish through multiple river zones — from fast rapids to deep holding pools — using both bank fishing and raft-supported drift techniques.
The expedition is designed for serious anglers who want a true wilderness experience, combining conservation-focused catch-and-release fishing with remote camping and exploration of untouched river ecosystems. The trip ends with a cultural and wildlife transition in Bardia National Park, including a jungle safari experience.
Trip Preparation
Trip Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrive at Kathmandu via Tribhuvan International Airport. Meet and greet with your expedition team, followed by a private transfer to the hotel. In the evening, enjoy a detailed trip briefing, equipment check, and preparation for the upcoming wilderness journey. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Day 2 : Kathmandu → Nepalgunj → Babai Chepang (Ratna Highway Side)
Morning flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, followed by a scenic drive toward Babai Chepang along the Ratna Highway. Meet the river support crew, finalize fishing equipment, and complete permit formalities. Set up riverside camp and enjoy your first introductory fishing session in the Babai River. Overnight camping by the river.
Day 3 : Upper Babai Fishing
Full-day guided fishing in the upper reaches of the Babai River, targeting Himalayan Golden Mahseer in fast-flowing pools, runs, and riffles.
Day 4 : Upper Babai Fishing
Continue exploring productive holding waters, deep pools, and rapids. Focus on reading river structure and Mahseer behavior.
Day 5 : Raft-Assisted Drift Fishing
Begin raft-supported drift fishing through remote and less-accessible sections of the Babai River, covering prime but untouched fishing zones.
Day 6 : Remote Upper Babai Section
Fish pristine wilderness stretches with high Mahseer habitat potential. Experience isolated river conditions deep in the Terai wilderness.
Day 7 : Remote Upper Babai Section
Continue exploring untouched upper river sections, combining bank fishing and drift approaches in remote water.
Day 8 : Upper–Middle Babai Fishing
Full-day fishing in transition zones between upper and middle river sections, targeting active feeding Mahseer zones.
Day 9 : Upper–Middle Babai Fishing
Continue working productive holding waters, deep seams, and natural river bends.
Day 10 : Middle Babai
Fish the middle reaches of the Babai River, where water volume increases and larger Mahseer are commonly found.
Day 11 : Middle Babai
Another full day exploring river structure, eddies, and deep pools in the middle basin.
Day 12 : Lower Middle Babai
Target deeper pools, undercut banks, and current seams where larger fish stage.
Day 13 : Lower Middle Babai
Continue downstream progression through high-potential Mahseer territory.
Day 14 : Lower Babai
Focused fishing for trophy-sized Himalayan Golden Mahseer in the lower river system.
Day 15 : Babai Valley (Early Section)
Enter the scenic Babai Valley. Fish dramatic landscapes with canyon-like features and strong current systems.
Day 16 : Babai Valley (Middle Section)
Continue through the heart of the valley, combining exploration with technical fishing in structured river corridors.
Day 17 : Babai Valley (Final Section)
Final full fishing day in the Babai Valley before concluding the expedition section of the river journey.
Day 18 : Babai Valley → Thakurdwara, Bardia National Park
Exit the river and transfer to Bardia National Park region (Thakurdwara). Check into a comfortable resort, relax after the expedition, and enjoy a village walk along with a traditional Tharu cultural program. Overnight at the resort.
Day 19 : Jungle Safari → Nepalgunj → Kathmandu / Departure
Early morning jungle safari in Bardia National Park, offering chances to see wildlife such as rhinos, deer, elephants, and possibly tigers. Return to the resort for breakfast and lunch. After lunch, drive to Nepalgunj Airport and fly back to Kathmandu for international departure or onward travel.
Inclusions
What is included?
- Airport transfers (Kathmandu)
- Domestic flights (Kathmandu–Nepalgunj–Kathmandu)
- All fishing permits
- Professional fishing guides
- Rafting support crew & safety gear
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping setup)
- Full meals during expedition
- Resort accommodation in Bardia
- National park safari permit
- Ground transportation
What isn't included?
- International airfare
- Personal fishing gear (optional rental available)
- Travel insurance
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal expenses / tips
- Emergency evacuation costs (if any)
Complimentary
- Welcome briefing in Kathmandu
- Fishing tackle assistance setup
- Cultural Tharu village visit
- Expedition certificate of participation