Madi and Seti rivers turn into topdraw water tourism destination

Madan Wagle / Tanahu: Madi and Seti rivers are becoming a premier topdraw destination in water tourism Nepal, officials say.

According to Tanahun Tourism Development Committee, the number of tourists indulging in nautical sports and recreation in Madi and Seti rivers has increased in recent times.

Majority of the tourists who engage in rafting, kayaking in the rivers come from United States, Japan, united Kingdom, China, Thailand and India among others, informed tourist guides in the region.

Tourists who arrive after visiting Kathmandu and Pokhara begin to raft from Byas Cave and cover a distance of 32 kilo meters, from the cave to Gaighat, over 2 days and 3 nights.

At present, 10 to 12 rafting boats occupied by tourists run the course daily, senior rafting guide Hari Lal Shrestha said.

Rapidrunner, Paddle Nepal, Caren and Doni are among the leading organizers of rafting and kayaking expeditions in Seti and Madi rivers, according to the guides.

According to a US citizen, 70-year-old Carol Thomson, rivers of Nepal and abundance of flora and fauna have fascinated her. “I wish to enjoy this experience to the fullest as it is the first time I have undertaken a rafting expedition,” Thomson said.

Thomson and other seven tourists from US are in the expedition team, Shrestha informed.

After reaching Gaighat, usually the tourists embark on a trip to Chitwan or Kathmandu or Pokhara. Courtesy: The Himalayan Times