Karnali River Fishing Expedition – 11 Days
| Trip code | KRF-11 |
| Package name | Karnali River Fishing Expedition – 11 Days |
| Duration | 11 |
| Max. elevation | 1200 m |
| Level | Grade 1-4 |
| Transportation | Private jeep and domestic round air transfer |
| Accomodation | |
| Starts at | Kathmandu |
| Ends at | Kathmandu |
| Trip route | Kathmandu – Surkhet – Rakam Karnali – Chisapani – Kathmandu |
| Cost | USD 2,800 per person |
Highlights
- 🎣 Golden Mahseer & Goonch Catfish Fishing – Two of Asia’s most sought-after freshwater giants.
- 🚣 Raft Access to Remote Fishing Spots – Away from crowds, deep into the wilderness.
- 🏕 Riverside Camping – Prime fishing access right from your tent.
- 🐊 Wildlife Viewing – River dolphins, gharials, otters, and rare birds.
- 🛶 Class III–IV Rapids – Optional thrilling paddling between fishing stops.
- 🌏 Cultural Encounters – Visits to isolated Karnali villages.
Overview
The Karnali River Fishing Expedition – 11 Days, organized by Karnali Rafting & Adventure Pvt. Ltd., is the ultimate Himalayan angling experience for those with limited time but an appetite for adventure.
The Karnali River, Nepal’s longest and most powerful waterway, is legendary among anglers for its trophy-sized Golden Mahseer and Goonch Catfish. Flowing through remote jungles, dramatic gorges, and untouched villages, the Karnali offers not just fishing — but a complete wilderness immersion.
On this expedition, we combine professional fishing guidance with rafting support to access the most secluded fishing pools and deep runs. Each day brings new fishing opportunities: fast-water rapids ideal for Mahseer, deep swirling pools perfect for Goonch, and tranquil stretches for casting from the raft.
Evenings are spent camping on pristine river beaches under a blanket of stars, enjoying fresh meals cooked by our river crew. Along the way, you’ll spot rare wildlife, meet friendly locals, and experience the unspoiled beauty of Nepal’s far west.
With catch-and-release ethics, high-quality fishing and rafting equipment, and decades of river expertise, Karnali Rafting & Adventure Pvt. Ltd. ensures your fishing trip is safe, sustainable, and unforgettable.
Trip Preparation
Trip Itinerary
Day 1 : Kathmandu → Surkhet (Flight) → Tallo Dungeswor (Drive)
- Pickup from Tribhuvan International Airport or hotel in Kathmandu.
- Morning flight Kathmandu → Surkhet (1 hr).
- Drive by 4WD jeep (~6–7 hrs) to Tallo Dungeswor (put-in point).
- Riverside camping and trip briefing.
Day 2 : Rafting & Fishing Begins (Tallo Dungeswor – Riverside Camp)
- Safety briefing & paddling practice.
- Start rafting through Class II–III rapids.
- Fishing in calm pools and eddies.
- Camp on sandy riverside beach.
Day 3 : Into the Wilderness
- Morning fishing session.
- Rafting through Class III–IV rapids.
- Riverside camping with campfire dinner.
Day 4 : Big Rapids & Fishing
- Fishing in prime pools.
- Raft through God’s House and other thrilling rapids.
- Overnight camp on remote beach.
Day 5 : Fishing & Village Encounters
- Early fishing at bends and channels.
- Raft past remote villages, wildlife viewing.
- Camp in wilderness beach setting.
Day 6 : Adventure on the Karnali
- Rafting through continuous Class IV rapids.
- Fishing during calmer stretches.
- Jungle riverside camping.
Day 7 : Lower Karnali Section
- River widens into calmer water.
- Focus on fishing (Golden Mahseer & Goonch Catfish).
- Rafting and overnight camp on wide sandy bank.
Day 8 : Fishing & Relaxation
- Morning and evening fishing.
- Leisurely rafting, swimming, birdwatching.
- Riverside camping.
Day 9 : Wilderness Fishing Day
- Full-day fishing in best deep pools and runs.
- Relaxed rafting in between.
- Farewell beach campfire & dinner.
Day 10 : Towards Chisapani
- Final stretches of rafting & fishing.
- Camp near take-out point close to Chisapani.
Day 11 : Chisapani Take-Out → Nepalgunj (Drive) → Kathmandu (Flight)
- Morning: Raft short final section to Chisapani take-out.
- Drive ~1 hr to Nepalgunj airport.
- Same-day flight Nepalgunj → Kathmandu.
- Pickup at Kathmandu airport and transfer to hotel.
- Overnight in Kathmandu (trip officially ends).
Inclusions
What is included?
✅ Private ground transfers & optional domestic flights
✅ Professional fishing & rafting guides
✅ Fishing permits & conservation fees
✅ Rafting & camping equipment
✅ Meals during expedition
✅ Hotels in Kathmandu, Surkhet, and Chisapani
✅ First aid & safety equipment
✅ National park entry fees
✅ Pre-departure briefing
What isn't included?
❌ International flights
❌ Nepal visa fees
❌ Meals in Kathmandu & Surkhet (except breakfast)
❌ Alcoholic beverages & personal snacks
❌ Travel insurance (mandatory)
❌ Personal fishing gear (optional if you have your own)
❌ Extra hotel nights outside itinerary
❌ Optional tours (Bardia NP, Kathmandu sightseeing)
❌ Tips for crew
Complimentary
🎁 Karnali Fishing Expedition T-shirt or Cap
📸 Trip photos & short fishing videos
🏅 Certificate of Achievement
🌸 Nepali welcome garland
🧣 Farewell Khada scarf
☕ Morning/evening tea & coffee at camps