The trip starts near the Karnali bridge at Chisapani, where the river leaves the hills, and drifts south along the park boundary. The water is broad and slow, and the guide does most of the rowing, so you can keep binoculars ready. Dolphins surface in deeper pools; they are shy, and a sighting is usually a brief grey back and a puff of breath.
Crocodiles bask on sandbanks, and in quiet stretches you may see smooth-coated otters, ospreys, river lapwings and great cormorants. On some trips guests have seen tigers or elephants crossing between islands. Lunch is on a sand bar, and the float ends at a pick-up point near the park where the jeep returns you to Thakurdwara.
Life jackets are provided and the trip suits non-swimmers and older travellers. River levels are best from October to April. During the monsoon the Karnali floods and floats stop. The sun on open water is strong, so bring a hat, sunscreen and a long-sleeved shirt.
Good for
- Families
- Seniors
- Couples
- Photographers
Questions travellers ask
Are there dolphins in the Karnali river?
Yes, a small population of Ganges river dolphins survives in the Karnali and its Geruwa channel near Bardia, mostly in deep pools downstream of Chisapani. Numbers are low and they are endangered, so sightings are not guaranteed. Calm, clear days in winter and spring give the best chance of seeing one surface.
Is the Karnali float in Bardia a rafting trip with rapids?
No. This section is flat water, so it is a wildlife float rather than whitewater rafting. Guides row the boat, life jackets are worn, and families with children over about six and seniors can join. Whitewater on the Karnali starts much further upstream in the hills, on multi-day expeditions.
When can you do the river float in Bardia?
From October to April, when water levels are stable and the weather is dry. March and April combine warm weather with good wildlife activity near the river. From late June to September the Karnali floods with monsoon water and floats do not operate. Ask us to check conditions closer to your dates.
