Kayaking and Rafting Tours

Overview

The crystal clear rivers of Bhutan are one of the country’s best kept open secrets. Fed by the glacial-melt of the Eastern Himalayas, six major rivers (Wang Chhu, Sunkosh, Puna Tsang Chhu, Mangde Chhu, Kuri Chhu and Dangme Chhu and their tributaries), have been scouted for kayaking and rafting.

They cut through high valleys and low plains to meet up with the Brahmaputra River in India. The pristine natural setting and the sheer variety of the rivers’ courses provides a unique opportunity to explore Bhutan’s beautiful wilderness. Adventurous travellers will not be disappointed by the rugged, untamed waterways of Bhutan. The rivers are plentiful with strong currents varying between slow, gentle flows in some places – and powerful, raging torrents can be found throughout the country. Although adventure sports and tourism are relatively recent introductions to Bhutan, they are rapidly gaining in popularity.

The river courses available in Bhutan offer something for all visitors, regardless of experience: There are easy routes for beginners and hair-raising runs for the veterans. The best time for rafting and kayaking is from March to April and November to December.

Safety

We will do everything to ensure that you enjoy the adventure while minimizing the risks.

KAYAKING AND RAFTING ROUTES

1. Paro Chhu (Bondey – Isuna Bridge)

Location: Paro Valley,
Western Bhutan Length: Approximately 10 km (3 hours)
Difficulty: Class III-IV
Flow: About 500 cfs
Season: March – April
Craft: Kayaks recommended due to narrow and steep rapids

2. Upper Pho Chhu (Wangthangkha – Samdingkha)

Location: Punakha Valley, Western Bhutan
Length: Approximately 7 km (2 hours)
Difficulty: Class III-IV
Flow: 2000 -3000 cfs
Season: March – April, October – November
Craft: Kayaks and Rafts

3. Mo Chhu – Tashitang Devil’s Gorge Section (Tashithang- Below Punakha Dzong)

Location: Punakha Valley, Western Bhutan
Length: 12 km, 5 -7 hours with scouting
Difficulty: Class V Flow: 1000 cfs
Season: February/December.
Craft: Kayaks only (too steep for rafts) (Caution: Higher than medium flows makes this run dangerous. High water runs are not recommended for amateurs)

4. Mangde Chhu – Upper Section (Yundo Choling Palace- Langthel)

Location: Trongsa, Central Bhutan
Length: Approximately 5 km (2 hours with scouting)
Difficulty: Class IV
Flows: Approximately 3000 cfs
Season: March – April, November – December
Craft: Kayaks