White Waters of Nepal
In the tiny kingdom of Nepal, the same beautiful mountain ranges which draw trekkers and climbers shape an incredible variety of whitewater challenges for paddlers. A series of the world’s most outstanding rivers journeys are found here. The diverse geography of this small country encompasses extremes from the highest peaks on earth to steamy lowland jungles. Nepal is only 100 miles wide but rises from near sea level on the Gangetic plain to over 29,000 feet at the top of Mount Everest. The national Parks are home to abundant population of varied wildlife ranging from wild elephant, Greater one-horned rhinoceros, leopard, blue bull sambar, numerous types of deer and the most significant of cats- The Bengal Tiger. The bird watching is some of the best on the subcontinent with over 800 species. An uncanny blend of untouched natural splendor, exotic cultures, warm settled weather and exciting whitewater makes river travel especially unique.
Kathmandu has fascinated traders for centuries and has long been the center of commerce between India, China and Tibet. Arriving in the city is a step backwards in time; temple squares and bazaars bustle with a diversity of people and wares. The possibilities for sightseeing and retail therapy are endless- shops carry unique items such as Tibetan rugs, Nepalese wood carvings, exquisite jewelry and other remarkable goods. There are more eccentric characters per square mile than perhaps anywhere else.
Traveling on a river in Nepal is a wonderful experience. The days are warm and the scenery is spectacular. We camp on beautiful beaches that have a new layer of sand deposited on them every monsoon. Once we leave the put-in, we see few indications of modern civilization as we pass through farmland and jungle. The friendly local inhabitants are as curious about us as we are about them.
Adventures here are not limited to whitewater excitement. In this fairy-tale land of temples and medieval villages a varied and complex culture has evolved, rich with distinctive art forms, joyful ceremonies, and deep religious traditions of the more than thirty ethnic groups which populate the land. Linked by a rich heritage, the peoples of Nepal have created a kaleidoscope of exotic customs and beliefs.
