The Kali Gandaki, named after the goddess Kali, rises in Mustang, an enclave of Nepal to the north of the Himalaya. As it tumbles down between the Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna Himal, it carves the world's deepest river gorge. Once an ancient trading route through to Tibet, it is now a popular trekking trail. This is one of the finest raftable rivers in the country. With interesting places to visit en route, the river running on Kali Gandaki is very interesting. The class 4, 5 rapids and the wildlife sightings make the trip worthwhile.
From Baglung, the river flows through a wilderness area with few villages and people to our take-out at Mirmire. Turbulent rapids intertwine with abrupt drops as we dodge our way down intricate chutes of sparkling water, village terraces cling precariously to the slopes. Surreal snow-capped peaks hang suspended above us as we drift through somber canyons whose black walls glisten in the shadows.
The last day's rapids are the largest and a great climax to one of the best short river journeys in Nepal. Both experienced and first-time rafters will enjoy the abundant thrilling rapids of the Kali Gandaki. This trip can be combined with a trek in the Annapurna region beforehand; a wildlife safari in the Chitwan National Park after the river journey is also an excellent extension.
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