A gentle float on the Jia Bhoroli
The Jia Bhoroli is the Assam name of the Kameng, which rises in the Himalaya of western Arunachal and reaches the plains at Bhalukpong. In winter it runs clear and cold over smooth stones, with gentle riffles rather than rapids along the Nameri stretch. Local boatmen run soft inflatable rafts on a section of a few kilometres.
The float is unhurried. You sit back while the boatman steers, watching for river lapwings, ibisbills in some winters, mergansers, cormorants and kingfishers, with forest on one bank and pebble islands on the other. The river is also known for golden mahseer, the large game fish that gives Wild Mahseer its name, and catch-and-release angling is possible with permits in season.
Life jackets are provided, and the float is suitable for children and older travellers in calm conditions. We pair it with a morning walk in Nameri, ending with a picnic on a shingle bank before returning to the estate for a quiet afternoon.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
Is rafting on the Jia Bhoroli safe?
The Nameri stretch is a gentle float in winter, with small riffles rather than rapids, and boatmen are experienced. Life jackets are provided and must be worn. Rafting stops during the monsoon and after heavy rain, when the river rises quickly.
What is the Jia Bhoroli?
It is the Assamese name for the Kameng River, which flows from western Arunachal Pradesh into Assam at Bhalukpong and joins the Brahmaputra near Tezpur. It forms the western boundary of Nameri National Park and is known for clear water and golden mahseer.
Can I fish for mahseer at Nameri?
Catch-and-release angling for golden mahseer has a long history on the Jia Bhoroli, subject to permits and seasonal rules. Arrangements change, so we check the current position before planning angling. Most guests prefer the river float and birdwatching.
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