Trisuli River (Trishuli River)

The Basics

Only a 3-hour drive from Kathmandu, the Trisuli River is a popular destination for kayaking and rafting day trips. The river runs through a forested, steep-sided valley with villages and farmland along the banks. The water is relatively warm (no wet suits needed), and the rapids are good fun but not too powerful. Multi-day kayak clinics are held on the Trisuli River. Most visitors go on organized day trips, with transportation, activities, and food included.

Things to Know Before You Go

• While the Trisuli can be visited in a single day from Kathmandu or Pokhara, it’s more enjoyable and relaxing to spend the night at a riverside camp, either in a tent or more formal accommodation.

• Villages on the northern banks of the Trisuli are quieter, as they are on the opposite side of the river to the road.

• While day trips are common, traffic jams and roadwork can cause significant delays.

How to Get There

Take an organized trip from Kathmandu or Pokhara, or opt for public transit. From Pokhara, a tourist bus leaves from the Tourist Bus Park. From Kathmandu, take a tourist bus from Kantipath Road; there’s also a local bus from New Bus Park. Tourist buses are safer and less crowded than local buses, but there’s only one early departure per day. Ask to be dropped off at a particular camp or town along the highway.

When to Get There

The Trisuli River can be rafted and kayaked from March to November. It is one of Nepal’s few rivers that can still be enjoyed during the monsoon (June to September), although water levels can be very high. March-May and October-November are preferable months for a visit.

Jalbire Waterfall

Waterfall lovers will enjoy canyoning at Jalbire, which is located in the hills a few miles past Mugling. Abseil down waterfalls, slip down natural smooth-stoned slides, jump into plunge pools, and picnic on the rocks at this fun natural activity park. Canyoning trips to Jalbire are run by Kathmandu and Pokhara-based operators.