The Marsyangdi

The Marsyangdi is a magnificent, blue whitewater river with a spectacular mountain backdrop. Kayakers rave about it. It’s a full-on, continuously technical river (Class 4+), like a large nonstop slalom, needing experienced river staff and shore support. Companies normally run it as a three-day trip from near Khudi or Bhulbule (along the Annapurna Circuit trek) down to the Kathmandu–Pokhara highway, and many combine this with a scenic three-day trek from Begnas Tal (near Pokhara) to Khudi. The river is particularly beautiful in November, when levels are reasonably low and the mountain views are usually clear. The new dam at Phaliya Sanghu, some 14km by road south of Beisisahar has, sadly, broken the Marsyangdi into two sections of whitewater, separated by a short drive around the dam, and the road traffic along the bank is increasing (though it is still relatively small) – but it remains a classic.