Commercial rafting launched on Mahakali river in Kanchanpur

Kanchanpur: Commercial rafting services have officially started on the Mahakali River in Kanchanpur. The service was launched on Monday from the Khalla Musetti area of Bhimdatta Municipality-9, with five rafting boats in operation.

The initiative has been organized by the NGO Needs Nepal in collaboration with Bhimdatta Municipality, the Nepal Tourism Board, and other stakeholders.

Although the Mahakali River forms a border, commercial rafting had not previously been available on the Nepali side. Various organizations and local authorities have been working since 2077 BS to establish rafting, which had only been limited to testing in the past. Rafting guide Bhat stated that it has now officially started as a commercial activity.

Rafting will operate regularly until the onset of the rainy season. Local youth, who have completed guide training, are actively participating and have practiced at various locations along the river.

The inauguration program on Monday was attended by Nepal Tourism Board member Narendra Dev Bhatta, Bhimdatta Municipality Mayor Padam Bogati, Dodhara Chandani Municipality Mayor Kishore Kumar Limbu, and other public representatives and locals. More than a dozen rafting packages were sold on the inauguration day itself.

The rafting route covers approximately three kilometers from Musetti to Khalla and takes 15 minutes to half an hour. Participants can enjoy a mix of thrilling rapids and serene river views along the journey.