Budhigandaki Rafting

Pokhara Rafting

3
Hours
From US$ 60
US$ 40
Save
US$ 20
Group Discounts Available
  • 2 - 2 pax
    US$ 80
  • 4 - 4 pax
    US$ 70
  • 6 - 6 pax
    US$ 60
  • 8 - 12 pax
    US$ 50
  • 13 - 24 pax
    US$ 40
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5.0
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Experience Pokhara Rafting on the exciting Upper Seti River, just a 35-minute drive from Pokhara. Enjoy thrilling whitewater rapids, beautiful natural scenery, and an unforgettable half-day adventure with experienced river guides and essential safety equipment. Perfect for adventure seekers looking to add an exciting rafting experience to their stay in Pokhara.

Destination
Nepal
Activities
Rafting
Group size
2-30
Grade
Class III
Best season
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November)
Starts and ends
Pokhara / Pokhara
Transportation
Private Transportation
Adventure route

Pokhara – Lakeside → Hemja Pul (Upper Seti River) → Yamdi Dam → Pokhara – Lakeside

Highlights

  • Approximately 35 minutes' drive from Pokhara
  • Whitewater rafting on the Upper Seti River
  • Convenient half-day adventure
  • Scenic Himalayan foothill landscapes and river views
  • Professional river guides and safety equipment
  • Return transport to Pokhara after rafting

Overview

Pokhara Rafting is an exciting half-day whitewater adventure on the Upper Seti River, located just approximately 35 minutes from Pokhara Lakeside. It is an ideal choice for travellers who want to experience Nepal's thrilling river rapids without committing to a full-day rafting trip.

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to the rafting starting point at Hemja Pul. After meeting your professional river guides, you will receive a safety briefing and essential rafting equipment before launching onto the river.

Enjoy an exciting journey through flowing whitewater, playful rapids, and beautiful natural surroundings. Following the rafting trip, you will reach the designated take-out point near the dam, where your vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to Pokhara.

With convenient transport, experienced guides, and a half-day schedule, Pokhara Rafting is an excellent addition to your Pokhara holiday. It is suitable for adventure-loving travellers, couples, friends, and groups, subject to river conditions and the operator's safety requirements.

Important Note

Pokhara Rafting on the Upper Seti River is subject to weather conditions, water levels, and river safety assessments. The rafting route, duration, and difficulty may change depending on current conditions. Participants must follow the instructions of professional river guides and wear the provided safety equipment throughout the trip. Please bring suitable clothing, secure footwear, and a change of clothes. We recommend booking in advance and confirming your departure time and meeting point. For safety reasons, trips may be postponed, modified, or cancelled if river conditions are unsuitable

Adventure Itinerary

Duration: Half Day | River: Upper Seti | Starting Point: Hemja Pul

Hotel Pickup and Drive to Hemja Pul

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel in Pokhara. Enjoy a short drive of approximately 35 minutes to Hemja Pul, the rafting starting point on the Upper Seti River. Meet your rafting crew and prepare for an exciting whitewater adventure.

Safety Briefing and Preparation

Upon arrival, your professional river guides will provide a safety briefing covering paddling commands, river safety, and emergency procedures. You will receive the necessary rafting equipment, including a helmet and life jacket, before entering the river.

Upper Seti River Rafting Adventure

Start your rafting journey on the Upper Seti River and experience exciting whitewater rapids surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. Paddle through flowing river sections, work together with your team, and enjoy the thrill of whitewater rafting under the guidance of experienced river professionals.

Finish Rafting at the Dam

After completing the rafting section, arrive at the designated take-out point near the dam. Change into dry clothes and collect your belongings before returning to Pokhara.

Drive Back to Pokhara

Your vehicle will transfer you back to your hotel or the agreed drop-off point in Pokhara. Enjoy the rest of your day after an exciting half-day river adventure.

End of Trip: Pokhara Rafting concludes in Pokhara.

Note: The actual rafting duration, take-out location, and itinerary may vary depending on river conditions, water levels, and operational arrangements.

Not satisfied with this itinerary? Make your own.
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Need To Know

Route details:

  • Departure: Pick-up from your hotel in Pokhara.
  • Starting point: Hemja Pul / Bamboo Bridge on the Upper Seti River.
  • Rafting route: Paddle through exciting whitewater rapids along the Upper Seti River.
  • Take-out point: Yamdi Dam.
  • Return: Drive back to your hotel in Pokhara.

The drive to the starting point takes approximately 30–35 minutes, and the rafting section typically takes around 1–2 hours, depending on river conditions

  • Location: Upper Seti River, Pokhara, Nepal.
  • Duration: Half-day rafting experience, including transportation, preparation, and rafting.
  • Transportation: Approximately 35 minutes by vehicle from Pokhara to the rafting starting point at Hemja Pul.
  • Rafting Experience: Enjoy exciting whitewater rapids with qualified river guides.
  • Difficulty Level: Depends on river conditions and water levels; confirm suitability with your rafting operator before booking.
  • Swimming Ability: Basic swimming ability is helpful, but you must follow the guide's safety instructions regardless of your swimming skills.
  • Safety Equipment: A properly fitted life jacket, helmet, and paddle are provided for the rafting activity.
  • What to Bring: Swimwear, quick-drying clothes, secure footwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes.
  • Personal Belongings: Leave valuables at your hotel or secure them safely before departure.
  • Weather and River Conditions: Trips may be delayed, modified, or cancelled if water levels or weather conditions are unsafe.
  • Age and Health Requirements: Participants must meet the operator's age, health, and safety requirements. Inform the operator of any relevant medical concerns before the trip.
  • Return to Pokhara: After rafting, transportation returns you to Pokhara.
  • Booking Advice: Confirm your departure time, meeting point, inclusions, and current river conditions when booking.

Important: Whitewater rafting is an adventure activity with inherent risks. Always follow your guide's instructions and wear your safety equipment throughout the trip.

Includes

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off in Pokhara (as agreed)
  • Transportation to and from the river
  • Professional rafting guide
  • Rafting equipment, including helmet and life jacket
  • Safety briefing and river instructions

Doesn't Include

  • Personal expenses
  • Meals and drinks
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for guides and crew
  • Any services not mentioned in the inclusions

Upcoming Departure Dates

No fixed departures

Packing List

  • Swimwear or quick-drying clothes
  • Secure sandals or river shoes
  • Towel and a change of clothes
  • Sunscreen and sunglasses with a strap
  • Water bottle
  • Waterproof bag for personal belongings
  • Personal medication, if needed
  • Cash for personal expenses

Note: Helmets, life jackets, and paddles are provided for the rafting trip.

Why Book with Us?
  • Expert local river guides with decades of experience.
  • Top-quality rafting equipment and safety gear.
  • Best price guaranteed on all trips.
  • No hidden fees or booking charges.
  • Small group sizes for a personalized experience.
  • Sustainable and responsible rafting practices.

Reviews

Hakim
Hakim

An Amazing Whitewater Adventure

Pokhara rafting was one of the highlights of our Nepal trip! The Upper Seti River offered exciting rapids and beautiful scenery. Our guide was professional, friendly, and made the entire experience enjoyable. Highly recommended!

website
12th Oct 2026
Adam
Adam - Australia

Excellent Guides and Safety

We had a fantastic rafting experience with Budhi Gandaki Rafting. The guides explained the safety procedures clearly and supported everyone throughout the journey. The team was welcoming, experienced, and professional.

website
29th Sep 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions

General Trip Questions

Pokhara rafting takes place on the Upper Seti River, with the trip typically starting near Hemja Pul and finishing at the designated take-out point near the dam.

Pokhara rafting is a half-day adventure, including transportation, safety briefing, preparation, and time on the river. The actual rafting duration depends on river conditions.

The Upper Seti River rafting starting point near Hemja Pul is approximately a 30–35-minute drive from Pokhara, depending on your pickup location and traffic.

Yes, beginners can participate when river conditions are suitable and the trip meets the operator's safety requirements. Professional guides provide instructions before rafting begins.

Swimming experience can be helpful, but requirements depend on river conditions and the operator's safety assessment. Always inform your guide about your swimming ability and follow all safety instructions.

The Upper Seti River can feature exciting Grade III–IV whitewater, depending on the section and water conditions. Your rafting operator should confirm the current difficulty level before departure.

Bring swimwear or quick-drying clothes, secure footwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes. Helmets, life jackets, and paddles are provided for the rafting activity.

The package can include transportation to and from the river, a professional rafting guide, essential rafting equipment, and a safety briefing. Confirm meals, hotel pickup, and other inclusions when booking.

Spring and autumn are popular seasons for rafting in Nepal. However, rafting on the Upper Seti River depends on local weather, water levels, and safety conditions throughout the year.

You can contact Budhi Gandaki Rafting by phone, email, or through our website to check availability and arrange your trip. You can also visit our office in Thamel, Kathmandu, for booking assistance. We recommend confirming your travel date, pickup arrangements, price, and river conditions in advance.

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Associated with
  • Nepal Government Ministry of Culture, Tourism & Civil Aviation
  • Nepal Tourism Board