KATHMANDU: Nepal Association of Rafting Agents (NARA) is organising the 14th Himalayan White Water Challenge Competition starting from November 27 for the promotion of adventure tourism in Nepal.

NARA shared that continuity has been given to adventure rafting this year as well to escalate the number of tourists visiting Nepal even in this complicated situation following the devastating earthquake of April 25.

At a press conference organised here, NARA Chairperson Chandra Bahadur Dahal informed that some 500 participants from Nepal and 20 foreign countries including Australia, Canada, America, Germany, Norway, China and India are taking part in the three-day competition to be organised in the Trishuli River.

Chairperson Dahal said that the competition would be fruitful to impart a message to the international community that rafting is safe in Nepal even after the earthquake and about 16 rivers are open for rafting.

The competition is to be organised in Fisling and Kurintar of the Trishuli River in Chitwan. The winner will receive a purse of Rs 600,000.

It may be noted that three out of 10 best rivers for rafting are in Nepal. The Bhotekoshi, Sunkoshi and Karnali rank fifth, seventh and 10th best rivers for the purpose.

An investment of Rs 2.5 million has been made for the competition, Chairperson Dahal informed, adding that 700 river guards for the security of the tourists has been arranged for the event.