Nepal, with its jaw-dropping landscapes, towering peaks, and roaring rivers, beckons adventure enthusiasts from all corners of the globe. Among the multitude of heart-pounding activities it offers, white water rafting stands tall as an absolutely unforgettable experience and one that I have to strike off my bucket list.

Having departed from Kathmandu to Pokhara by jeep, we are looking forwards to one stop along the way – the Trishuli Riverside Resort at Benighat, Dhading, and from the moment we arrive, we’re hit with an electric surge of excitement!

Our guide and ‘pilot’ Krishna ensures our life jackets and helmets are securely fastened, gives us a rapid-fire briefing on ‘commands’ safety, paddling, and what to anticipate, hands us our oars, and boards us on to the rubber dinghy. We precariously perch on the edge of the rubber dinghy. Balancing on this vessel feels like a wild dream, and little do I know how wild it’s about to get.

As our raft pushes off from the riverbank, the air is charged with palpable excitement. The cold and murky waters of the Trishuli, flanked by lush greenery and terraced hillsides, form an awe-inspiring canvas for our adventure. Our expert guide, a seasoned rafter who seems to know every twist and turn of the river, boosts our confidence to the max.

Barely three minutes into the river, we hit the first rapid, and before I can blink, I’m plunged headfirst into the roaring waters of the Trishuli. 

Adrenaline courses through my veins, and I don’t even register the icy chill of the water because my entire being is in shock! I surface spitting and spluttering and find myself being  swept  away from the dinghy, and my companions can’t decide whether to laugh or gasp.

They rush to my aid, hauling me back aboard like a sack of soggy potatoes. I’m still trembling and sputter and giggle my way through the rush of it all. But, oh boy, what an exhilarating start to the ride! My tummy still does a flip watching this video.

The Trishuli River, like many in Nepal, offers an array of rapids, each with its own character and challenges. From the exhilarating rush of Grade III rapids to the heart-pounding adrenaline of the Grade IV sections, the river provides an adrenaline-packed rollercoaster ride that leaves us simultaneously thrilled and humbled.

Between conquering these rapids, we seize the opportunity to soak in the serene beauty of the Nepalese countryside. This journey connects us deeply with both nature and the local culture, enriching our adventure.

At one point, we sidle up to a steep cliff, and some of our group decides to canyon down. I opt out this time, having had my share of adrenaline rushes, but the calmer waters provide the perfect opportunity for relaxation as we all enjoy these tranquil moments.

After nearly four hours of thrilling rafting, we approach our endpoint, and the sense of accomplishment is overwhelming. White water rafting in Nepal has proven to be an unforgettable journey, blending heart-pounding excitement, natural beauty, and cultural immersion. It’s an experience that will forever remain etched in my memory, a testament to the unparalleled adventures Nepal has to offer to those willing to explore its wild waters.

Back in the jeep, we continue our journey towards Pokhara, cherishing the memories of an electrifying day on the Trishuli River.