KATHMANDU: Rafting has officially been launched on the Kaligandaki River, flowing through Beni, the district headquarters of Myagdi, to attract domestic tourists attending the 8th Myagdi Festival.
The short-distance rafting service began on Wednesday, covering the route from Jaleshwor in Beni to the inlet near the open stage.
The initiative is a collaborative effort between Nepal River Explorer Pvt. Ltd. and local operators.
Gam Pun, the operator of Gandaki Hotel in Kalipul, shared that rafting services are typically offered during winter but have now been introduced to enhance entertainment options for festival visitors.
“River rafting is being offered for a short distance at an affordable fee to cater to festival attendees,” said Pun.
The rafting charges are set at Rs 800 per person for the Jaleshwor-to-Beni route and Rs 600 per person for the Bagarphant-to-inlet route.
Rafting guide Santosh Giri described the area’s hilly terrain and riverfront settlements as ideal for the activity, adding that long-distance rafting trips could also be arranged for interested groups. Currently, two boats, each with a capacity of eight passengers, are in operation.
While the initial priority is the Galeshwor-to-Beni route, there are plans to expand rafting services to cover longer distances, including routes from Maldhunga to Nayapul and even to Mirmi, depending on demand.
Subin Shrestha, President of the Myagdi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, emphasized the potential of rafting to promote tourism in the region.
“Efforts are underway to establish regular rafting services from Galeshwor Dham to Beni, passing through Dobhan, Maldhunga, Nayapul, and Mirmi,” Shrestha said, highlighting the activity’s role in enhancing Myagdi’s tourism appeal.
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