TRISHULI WHITE WATER RAFTING

2 DAYS – RIVER DISTANCE: 40kms.

Grade (high water): III – IV

The gorge of the Trishuli – just 2.5 hours from Kathmandu – embodies a blend of celestial vistas, varied wildlife as well as whitewater fun. Big bouncy waves, hefty holes, and tricky chutes all go towards making an exhilarating ride to remember with a combination of grade II+ and III+ rapids with some IV’s in the post-monsoon season . . . Rapids such as Snell’s Nose, Teen Devi, Ladies Delight, Upset and the aptly named Surprise rapid.

On our overnight rafting schedule the evening’s campsite is nestled on the sandy banks of the river. We have dinner surrounded by the tranquil setting of the Trishuli valley. We sit by candlelight discussing experiences and playing ludicrous games. The next day the rafting ends with lunch before boarding our bus to Bandipur.

Stopover in between – The Trisuli Centre

While rafting, the perfect refreshing break in between is the Trisuli Centre located in a picturesque village called “Bandare.” It is a joint venture between the village and Himalayan Encounters in which facilities for travellers mingle with the local activities. This co-operation has already created Bandare’s first clean toilets (the bio-gas which is used for cooking), a reliable fresh water system, a sturdy all-purpose shelter (porters and bus riders) as well as a green eco-friendly environment. There has also been a return to traditional vernacular building methods and materials creating terraces and verandas from which the beauty of the valley can be enjoyed.

Also it has many good excuses for a longer stay:

• The 120 metre trail-bridge that spans the river.

• The water-falls at Rain-bow Ravine.

• Wood-carving and brass-work communities.

And - really a must see-the amazing ‘BIG FIG’, Nepal’s grandest ancient tree, the huge spreading banyan.

BANDIPUR – Jewel of a small ancient, naturally fortified mountain town . .
130kms (4hrs) from Kathmandu. It is close to the take-out of Trishuli rafting.

Bandipur is well worth at least a day or two of your time. You’ll love its eagle’s nest location, its lazy walks through idyllic farms and orange groves, its simple architecture and its people surprised and pleased to see you. You’ll never forget rising before the dawn for the utterly stunning one hundred mile pink-tinged skyline panorama – and another before twilight.
Its sense of a unique history too; for at one time it was a prosperous center of trade between lowland and highland and between British India and Tibet.

Bandipur stands at the end of a steep track, on the escarpment 7kms to the south of the Kathmandu – Pokhara road . . . the arrival of which, in 1972, was the death knell of Bandipur’s influence.

The Bandipur Old Inn is a fine example of traditional Newari architecture built entirely of timber and warm red brick. The Inn has absolutely the most stunning views of the Annapurnas plus a colourful prime location in this ancient hill top town. It will be a memorable experience to sit back and relax in this quaint inn in an old idyllic town.

For further details contact Himalayan Encounters -4700426/335

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