Rafting Tour in Bhutan. The clean and clear rivers of Bhutan are one of the kingdom’s best-kept open secrets. Kayakers and rafters have scouted the six rivers (Wang Chhu, Sunkosh, Puna Tsang Chhu, Mangde Chhu, Kuri Chhu, and Dangme Chhu and their tributaries) fed by the Eastern Himalayas.
River Rafting and Kayaking Tour in Bhutan is a new adventure activity introduced recently in Bhutan. It is done mostly in Punakha, central Bhutan, and Manas River, in the south. Kayaking and river rafting in Bhutan is a unique experience, unlike many of the more crowded rafting options in Asia. The rafting ranges from simple grade 1 to fast-flowing rivers of Bhutan.
Why book a River Rafting tour with us?
- Guaranteed Bhutan Visa and an unlimited number of pax are accepted
- 24/7 Customer Service
- Flexible Tour Program
- Hand Picked Hotel
- No Booking Fees
- Minimum Cancellation Charges
- Friendly Tour Guide
River Rafting Tour Price
The river rafting Tour price is USD 150 per raft. It takes about 1.5 hours to complete the rafting on Mo Chu side of the river. Each raft can carry 6 people.
Rafting Tour in Bhutan Highlight
- Rafting trips often pass by ancient monasteries, traditional Bhutanese villages, and terraced rice fields, providing a unique cultural context to the adventure.
- Bhutan River Rating emphasizes sustainable tourism practices to ensure the preservation of the natural beauty and ecological balance of the rivers.
- Expert guides with extensive knowledge of Bhutan’s rivers and safety protocols ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Essential Information for River Rafting in Bhutan:
Popular Rivers for Rafting:
- Mo Chhu River (Mother River): Located in Punakha, this river is known for its gentle to moderate rapids, making it suitable for beginners and families. The rafting route takes you through scenic landscapes and passes by the Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and historic fortresses.
- Pho Chhu River (Father River): Also in the Punakha region, Pho Chhu is known for its stronger rapids and is ideal for experienced rafters. The river merges with Mo Chhu near Punakha Dzong, offering exciting rapids and beautiful scenery along the way.
- Dangmechu River in Manas: A challenging river perfect for experienced rafters, featuring class IV and V rapids. You can also check Manas Wildlife during rafting
- Wang Chhu River: Located near Thimphu and Paro, this river offers a mix of calm stretches and moderate rapids, making it suitable for both beginners and intermediate rafters.
Rafting Grades:
- Bhutan’s rivers generally range from Class I to Class IV rapids, making them accessible for various skill levels. The Mo Chhu is typically Class II, while the Pho Chhu and Drangme Chhu have stretches that reach Class III-IV, providing a mix of moderate to exciting rapids.
Duration of Rafting Trips:
- Rafting tours can range from half-day trips (usually 2-3 hours) to full-day trips. Customized multi-day expeditions are also available for those who want a more extended rafting adventure, particularly on rivers like Drangme Chhu.
Highlights of the Experience:
- Scenic Views: Bhutan’s rivers flow through deep valleys, dense forests, and around sacred sites, offering rafters panoramic views of mountains, waterfalls, and traditional Bhutanese villages.
- Cultural Landmarks: Many rafting routes allow you to pass by iconic Bhutanese landmarks like Punakha Dzong and other historical sites, adding a cultural dimension to the adventure.
- Wildlife Spotting: Rafters may catch glimpses of native wildlife, including colorful bird species like the Himalayan kingfisher, and, in some cases, herds of grazing yaks along the riverbanks.
Best Time for River Rafting in Bhutan:
- The ideal time for river rafting in Bhutan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer pleasant weather and clear skies, while the water levels are perfect for rafting. Monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rains, which can raise water levels significantly, making some rivers challenging to navigate.
Safety and Accessibility:
- Rafting in Bhutan is well-regulated, and licensed tour operators provide professional guides, high-quality safety gear, and modern rafting equipment. Safety protocols are strictly followed, ensuring a secure experience for all participants.
- While the Pho Chhu has some challenging rapids, many rivers in Bhutan are accessible to beginners. Experienced guides assess each participant’s skill level to recommend the appropriate rafting routes.
Rafting Tour in Bhutan Overview
Places of Interest
Best Places to visit in Bhutan
ITINERARY OVERVIEW
- Day 1 Arrival at Paro International Airport and drive to Thimphu. Distance 60KM | Driving time 1 Hour | Altitude 2400M Above Sea Level
- Day 2 Thimphu to Punakha. Distance 72.8KM | Driving Time 2 Hours 8 Minutes |Altitude 1200M
- Day 3 Punakha River Rafting and Kayaking. Time 1 Hour
- Day 4 Punakha to Paro. Distance 114.8 KM | Driving Time 3Hours 5 Minutes |Altitude 2300M.
- Day 5 Paro Tiger Nest trail Hike. Distance 15 KM | Walking time 4 Hours | Altitude 3120M.
- Day 6 Paro Tour. Altitude 2300M
- Day 7 Drop at Airport and See off. Altitude 2300M
Trip Highlights
- Go rafting on the Mo Chu River on a half-day white water rafting trip from Punakha, and enjoy a fun blend of flatwater and easy rapids in a scenic location.
- Enjoy the amazing views of Punakha valleys and Dzongs during rafting.
- Immerse yourself in the culture and tradition of Bhutan.
- Explore the fortress and ancient monasteries of Bhutan.