Rafting craze in Seti River

If you want to do rafting, then the month March to April and October to November are taken as the best rafting seasons.  Though the weather begins to drop in November, number of rafting tourist in Seti Riverm, Pokhara is increasing. There are two rafting trials in Pokhara— ‘Chinapul’ and ‘Byas Gufa', both ends in Gaighat. It takes two to three days to complete around 22 miles long Damauli- Gaighat trials.

Senior Rafting Guide of Yeti Holidays Rameshowr Shrestha said, “Seti River is a zero thermal river that’s why it feels warm even in winter. Shrestha further claimed that safe trial and warm water are some key reasons for increasing number of rafting tourists. Seti River is perfect for aged and first timer because other rivers like Trisuli, Bhote Koshi, and Kali Gandaki are cold water river and are suitable for high rafting.”

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Despite being main attraction for tourists, the river is facing a pollution problem. According to tourism entrepreneurs, unmanaged crusher business is one of the biggest contributors for river pollution. Rafting Guide Harilal Shrestha said that during their two days long rafting journey tourists stay in a local hotel of Dharampani and next day they can enjoy nature and local culture, before starting their rafting journey. It takes three hours to reach Dharampani, which is around 12 miles far from Damauli. Then, it takes two hours to reach Gaighat from there.

Tourist Guide Rameshwor Shrestha said that Tanahun residents can take proper advantage of this rafting trial. “Tourists keep on complaining, there is a lack of restaurant. If anyone initiates a well managed restaurant, tourists are willing to spend where locals can earn handsome money out of it.”

Tourist guide Harilal Shrestha stated that “Crusher business and unmanaged dumping sites near river has been polluting river. However, concerned authorities are not taking any action for such activities.”