Babai River Fish Catch & Release Expedition

  • 5 Days
  • Kathmandu/Kathmandu
  • October to April

Why You’ll Love Babai River Fish Catch & Release Expedition

  • Discover one of Nepal’s beautiful hidden rivers, the Babai River (~200 km), which is less crowded than other tourist spots.
  • Get on the panoramic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj that offers a top-down view of Nepal’s diverse terrain.
  • Visit a remote fishing spot along the Babai River that flows through the Bardiya National Park (968 sq km).
  • Catch and release top freshwater species like Golden Mahseer (Tor putitora), Goonch Catfish (Bagarius yarrelli), Indian Major Carps, and Channa species using fly-fishing or bait methods.
  • Spot wildlife like rhinos, wild boar, elephants, Rhesus Macaque & Langurs, gharials, deer, and exotic birds along the riverbanks and in the jungle.
  • Immerse yourself in Tharu culture, visit local villages, and learn about their customs.
  • Spend part of the day fishing and the rest swimming, birdwatching, or just chilling by the river.
  • Extend your trip with add-ons like jungle walks, canoe rides, birdwatching, and more rafting.

Overview of Babai River Fish Catch & Release Expedition

If your idea of “catching feelings” involves a fishing rod and a Mahseer, then the Babai River Fish Catch and Release expedition is just the adventure you need. This adventure is all about catching various species of fish, including Golden Mahseer and Rohu, then gently letting them go back into the river. Our expert guides will help you reach the best fishing spots, while the support team takes care of meals, camp setup, and equipment. It’s a fun and eco-friendly way to enjoy fishing and support the conservation of river wildlife.

Besides fishing, there are also other fun and enjoyable activities included in the package. You will raft down the Babai River, explore dense forests, and camp by the riverside each night. You will also go for jungle safaris where you might spot elephants, deer, or even Bengal tigers. And with over 400 species of birds in the area, birdwatching becomes a peaceful thrill, despite the adrenaline.

This way, each day in a 5-day Babai River Fish Catch and Release Expedition itinerary is filled with fishing and rafting, while your nights are spent camping on sandy riverbanks under the stars. You’ll sleep to the sound of the flowing river and wake up surrounded by nature. It’s a journey through a peaceful nature that is fully packed with adventure, wildlife, and moments that you’ll never forget. If you are looking for a unique and scenic river adventure, then this is the one you should try. Below is the detailed itinerary for the 5-day Babai River expedition. You can take a look.

5 Days Itinerary of Babai River Fish Catch & Release Expedition

 Day 1: Arrival & River Kickoff

Your journey to the Babai River Fish Catch and Release Expedition starts from Kathmandu. You’ll take a flight to Nepalgunj, where you’ll be picked up from Nepalgunj Airport in Terai and driven to the starting point of the Babai River expedition. After reaching the site, you’ll meet some expert guides who will give a short and helpful briefing about rafting and fishing. Then comes the equipment setup. You’ll ride on a central oar raft, while the support crew sets up a cata-raft for carrying gear and helping along the way.

With everything ready, you’ll begin rafting on the Babai River, crossing beautiful Babai valley, enjoying beautiful jungle views, and clean river waters. As the day passes, the team will help you set up a riverside camp under the stars, where you can relax, capture photos, and prepare for the exciting days ahead. You’ll sleep in tents by the riverbank and enjoy freshly cooked Nepali-style meals prepared by the crew on your very first day.

Days 2-4: Full Days of Angling & Exploration 

Over the next three days in Fishing trip, you’ll spend your full time exploring the pristine Babai River and the Bardiya National Park. Each morning starts with fresh air and positive vibes as you continue the full-day river expedition. You’ll place a bait in some of the prime fishing spots of the river and catch amazing fish. A designated kayaker stays close to help whenever your hook gets stuck or your line tangles, so you can focus on the catch, not the hassle.

As the raft moves downstream, the adventure goes beyond fishing. The surroundings of Bardiya National Park offer a chance to spot rare wildlife such as Asian elephants, one-horned rhinos, gharial, Gangetic dolphins, and even the Royal Bengal tiger. Bird lovers can also keep their eyes out for over 400 bird species, including hornbills, kingfishers, and eagles flying above the riverbanks. The river itself passes through forests, grasslands, and remote wilderness, making every step feel like a new discovery.

Evenings are spent at riverside camps, where you’ll relax around a fire, enjoy freshly prepared local meals, and sleep in tents under a sky full of stars. The sound of animals, the flow of the river, and the peaceful environment make every night feel refreshing and relaxing.

Day 5: River Conclusion & Departure 

Your final day begins with a morning fishing session, where you’ll get your one last chance to cast your hook and catch some good fish. Early hours are often best for angling, with a variety of fish species like Golden Mahseer, snakehead, Indian trout, and catfish more active in the cooler water. As you complete your fishing, you’ll raft through the final stretch of the Babai River, heading towards Babai Bridge. Along the way, you may still catch a glimpse of wild animals drinking by the banks and a flock of birds flying overhead.

The final rafting journey is beautiful and emotional, passing through the forests and grasslands of Bardiya National Park one last time. It’s a moment to witness everything for the last time, the rare wildlife and the rich biodiversity of this region. By midday, you’ll reach Babai Bridge, where the expedition to the Babai River ends, and now it’s time to return to Kathmandu. You will be taken to the Nepalgunj Airport, where you can take your flight to Kathmandu and move towards your home.

Note for Babai Package: There are flexible options available for the number of days you wish to stay and try your fishing luck. The cost can be revised accordingly, and we will provide our best offer while collectively maintaining the service and your budget. 

What's Included?

River Adventure

  • Guided rafting & fishing expedition led by professionals
  • Rafting Setup: Central oar-supported raft for guests
  • Support Equipment: Cata-raft for associates & a dedicated kayaker for fishing assistance

Accommodation & Meals

  • 3 nights of adventurous riverside camping
  • Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Private Transportation

  • Pickup and drop off at Nepalgunj Airport

Permits & Leadership

  • All necessary permits for the National Park, Rafting, Camping, & Fishing
  • 1 Nepali group leader accompanying the guests

This expedition is a premium, all-inclusive adventure that requires special logistics, making it more costly due to:

National Park & Special Permits:

  • Babai River is inside Bardia National Park, requiring expensive permits for entry, camping, rafting, and fishing.
  • Individual park permits are charged per person per day, adding to the total cost.

Private & Professional Rafting Setup:

  • Central oar raft for guests ensures a relaxed, high-quality experience.
  • Cata-raft for support & gear provides additional safety and convenience.
  • Dedicated kayaker to assist anglers with stuck hooks and ensure smooth operations.

 Mandatory Local Natural Guide & Ranger:

  • A local natural guide is required to navigate the protected areas and educate guests about the local ecosystem.
  • A ranger from Bardia National Park is required to ensure compliance with conservation regulations and provide wildlife protection (as the area is home to tigers, elephants, and other wildlife).

 Farewell dinner after the trip.

What's Not Included?

  •  Travel/medical insurance & emergency evacuation costs
  • Personal expenses (alcohol, hot water, donations, tips)
  • Additional services outside the standard package

Why Choose a Catch & Release Expedition?

Catch and release is not just a way to fish; it’s a way to protect nature. Instead of keeping the fish, you’ll return them to the river so they can keep growing and help maintain the balance of the Babai River’s ecosystem. This is especially important for species like Golden Mahseer, which is currently listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. By choosing catch and release, you’re helping to protect the river life, and your trip becomes part of Nepal’s goal to promote eco-friendly tourism through its 2025 Eco-Tourism Action Plan.

The Babai River flows through Bardia National Park, which is home to 53 mammal species and more than 400 species of Birds. Fishing with care means you won’t disturb this rich wildlife or damage the environment. It’s the best way to enjoy adventure while also protecting the river and animals that live there, which helps to make your trip exciting and unforgettable.

What Fish Species Can You Expect in the Babai River?

Fish Species Local Name Interesting Facts
Golden Mahseer Sahar One of the most valued fish for sport fishing in South Asia, known for its power and beauty
Snow Trout Asala Prefer colds, fast-flowing streams, often found in hilly rivers like the Babai
Catfish Bam/ Goonch Large, strong fish found in deep pools, popular among experienced anglers
Indian Torrent Catfish Gadhera Lives in rocky oxygen-rich streams, recognized by its flat head and whiskers
Copper Mahseer Bakhe Sahar Smaller than Golden Mahseer but equally fast, often found in mid-hill rivers
Minor Carps Bhitte/Pothi Common, small-sized fish, a good indicator of healthy freshwater systems
Rohu Rahu A popular edible fish in South Asia, found in the slower part of the river
Freshwater Eel Bamme Snake-like fish are found on muddy bottoms and are mostly active at night.
Kalaban (River Barb) Kalaban Known for its speed and silver shine, often found in schools (large groups).
Silver Carp Chandi Sahar Herbivorous fish that help to control algae are sometimes spotted in calmer parts of the river

5 Days Babai River Fish Catch & Release Expedition Cost

The total cost for the 5-Day Babai River Fish-Catch and Release Expedition is USD 1390 per person. This includes private transportation from Babai River to Nepalgunj Airport, and the entire guided expedition, covering rafting gear, expert fishing guides, camping equipment, food, and support crew. Every part of the trip is arranged to give you a smooth and safe fishing adventure in the Bardiya region.

A part of the cost goes directly to conservation efforts, like the Bardiya National Park permit fees and local community support. These permits are essential to enter and explore the protected areas legally. Here is a breakdown of the national park permit cost.

Types of Permit Nepali (Rs) SAARC countries  Non-SAARC countries 
Park Permit 100 NPR 750 ($5.48) NPR 1500 ($10.95)
Camping Permit 500 NPR 1500 ($10.95) NPR 3000 ($21.90)
Rafting Permit 200 NPR 2000 ($14.60) NPR 4000 ($29.20)
Fishing Permit 200 NPR 1500 ($10.95) NPR 2500 ($18.25)

Note: For experiencing similar types of adventure at different locations at a flexible cost, you can try the Tamur River Expedition offered by our agency.

Can You Enjoy the Babai River Without Fishing?

Yes, the Babai River Expedition is just as rewarding, even if you don’t do fishing. You can enjoy rafting, all while spotting deer, monkeys, as well as Royal Bengal tigers along the way. It is also the best place for bird lovers, with over 400 species including hornbills, kingfishers, and peafowl. At night, just relax under the beautiful sky by the campfire, enjoy photography, and read a book or journal beside the river.

After the expedition, you go on a jeep safari at Bardiya National Park, one of the famous national parks in Nepal, where a large number of tigers are found. Take a short jungle tour or visit the nearby Tharu village to learn about their culture and traditions. Nature lovers can enjoy butterfly watching (over 300 species) or spot rare trees and plants like sal, khair, sissoo, silk cotton, and fig trees, which are perfect for eco-travelers, learners, and explorers. To witness rarer wildlife, you have to go to the Himalayas, go for the Everest Base Camp trek, and experience a once-in-a-lifetime journey.

Gear and equipment needed for the Babai River Fish Catch

Fishing Gear Rafting and Safety Equipment
  • Fishing Rod & Reel
  • Fishing Line (20-30 lb test)
  • Barbless Hooks
  • Assorted Lures & Baits
  • Hook Remover/ Pilers
  • Landing Net (rubber mesh)
  • Polarized Sunglasses
  • Fishing License/Permit
  • Central Oar Raft
  • Cata-Raft
  • Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
  • Helmet
  • Dry Bags
  • Waterproof Containers
  • First Aid Kit
Camping gear Personal Essentials
  • Tents (2-person or 1-person)
  • Sleeping Bag & Mat
  • Headlamp / Torch
  • Portable toiletries Kit
  • 1 small bottle of Insect Repellent (50-100 ml)
  • 2-3 Trash Bags/ Ziplock Bags
  • 2-3 pairs of quick-dry T-shirts (choose brands like Columbia or The North Face
  • 2 pairs of Quick-dry Trousers / Shorts (use brands like Columbia or Quechua)
  • 1 Light Fleece or Jacket (try Patagonia, Arc’teryx, or Decathlon)
  • 3-4 pairs of sports socks (try Darn Tough, Smartwool, or Quechua
  • 1 pair of hiking shoes (choose shoes of Salomon or Merrell)
  • 1 Wide-brim Hat or Cap ( any UV protection cap)
  • Polarized sunglasses (try brands like Oakley, Maui Jim, or Decathlon)
  • Sunscreen and Lip balm (SPF 30 or above)
  • 1 Power bank (10,000-20,000 mAh)

FAQs About Babai River Fish Catch & Release Expedition