About Arun River Rafting

Arun River Rafting is an exciting adventure amidst stunning natural beauty where the river originates from the Tibet Autonomous Region and flows through eastern Nepal. Rafting on this river takes you through deep gorges, lush forests, and picturesque villages, offering a unique combination of adrenaline-pumping action and scenic serenity. The Arun’s rapids ranging from Class III to V, providing a thrilling ride for experienced rafters while also offering calmer stretches for moments of relaxation and reflection. Along the way, rafters can witness the untouched beauty of the Himalayas, experience local culture, and enjoy the remote, tranquil atmosphere far from urban hustle.

This river is located in eastern Nepal, which is also known for its thrilling white-water rafting experiences, and offers some of the most challenging and scenic rafting routes in the region. Rafting on the Arun River is ideal for those seeking a combination of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion. It offers an exciting adventure for experienced paddlers, with challenging class III to V rapids. The river’s remote locations also insure an off-the-beaten-path experience, making it a perfect choice for those seeking both excitement and natural wonder. This river rafting is an ideal choice for thrill-seekers looking to explore one of Nepal’s most pristine and wild rivers.

The journey typically begins from Tumlingtar and winds through remote villages, allowing rafters to experience the unique landscapes and the local cultures of the region. The trip usually lasts between 5 or 8 days, which is depending on water conditions, and provides a perfect mix of adrenaline-pumping rapids and scenic beauty, including cascading waterfalls and deep gorges. Rafting in the Arun River offers various levels of difficulty where this river is known for its powerful rapids and breathtaking scenery. This river rafting is the most refreshing where you will forget all about your worries and feel relaxed while rafting in the white-water.

Arun River Rafting Grades

Rafting on the Arun River in Nepal offers a mix of rapids graded from Grade II to Grade IV. Here is a breakdown of those grades:

Grade II (Easy): These are small, straightforward rapids with minimal risk. They are ideal for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed experience. The water is relatively calm, with occasional small waves and easy-to-navigate sections.

Grade III (Moderate): These rapids are more challenging, with fast-moving water and larger waves. They require some skills and teamwork, but they are manageable for those with basic rafting experience, and rafters need to stay alert and work together to navigate the swift currents and obstacles.

Grade IV (Advance): These are powerful, fast-moving rapids with significant drops and large waves. They demand good technique, quick decision-making and strong teamwork. Rafting in Grade IV rapids is more physically demanding and requires experienced guides and participants who are prepared for a thrilling adventure.

The Arun River’s mix of rapids makes it an exciting and diverse destination for rafters of varying skills levels, with opportunities to enjoy both easier sections and more challenging, adrenaline-pumping rapids.

Outline Itinerary

Day 1Arrive in Kathmandu

Day 2Kathmandu flight towards Tumlingtar and trek towards Kartike Ghat

Day 3Rafting towards Tumlingtar

Day 4Whole day rafting

Day 5Whole day rafting

Day 6Whole day rafting

Day 7Last day raft on the Arun River and fly to Kathmandu

Day 8Departure day

Day to day details itinerary

Useful Information

The best time for Arun River rafting

For Arun River rafting, the best time is during the pre-monsoon season, from late September to early December. After the monsoon, the river’s water levels stabilize, creating ideal conditions for rafting. During this period, the weather is generally pleasant, with clear skies and moderate temperatures, providing a great environment for outdoor adventure. The water flow is still high enough to offer an exciting challenge with class III to IV rapids, making it suitable for intermediate adventurers.

Another good time for rafting on the Arun River is from March to May, as the water levels are lower than in the post-monsoon season, but still navigable for rafting. The weather is warmer and dry, offering an excellent opportunity for those who prefer a more moderate challenge. However, the rapids are less intense compared to the monsoon period, making it a better choice for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed rafting experience. Regardless of the season, it is always recommended to check water conditions and consult with local guides for the best experience.

Is the Arun River Rafting safe for beginners?

For beginners, rafting on the Arun River is generally not ideal, as it features sections with challenging rapids rated as class III and IV, which requires strong paddling skills and experience with white-water conditions. Those rapids can be powerful and unpredictable; with fast currents that make navigation difficult. Without prior rafting experience, beginners may find it hard to manage the rough waters and could be at risk of injury or capsizing. The river’s remote location also complicates rescue operations, making safety a critical concern.

However, there is some section of the Arun River that might be more manageable for beginners, especially if done under the supervision of an experienced guide. Many rafting companies offer guided trips, providing safety gear and expert instruction to help newcomers navigate the river’s less difficult stretches. While it is possible for beginners to enjoy a rafting experience on the Arun River, it is important to have their right guidance and start on calmer sections to ensure safety and enjoyment.

Arun River Rafting

Trip Details