Koshi Barrage
In Nepali: कोशी ब्यारेज
The Koshi Barrage was built by India under a 1954 agreement to control the floods of the Koshi, long called the 'sorrow of Bihar'. Its 56 gates span the river at Bhimnagar, and the East–West Highway crosses the river on top of it.
Sunset over the vast river is spectacular, and stalls along the road sell freshly fried Koshi fish. With luck you can see Gangetic river dolphins in the pools below, and the bird-rich Koshi Tappu reserve lies just upstream.
What to see and do
Walk or drive across the barrage for views of the enormous river, and stop at the fish stalls at its ends. In winter, the river and ponds nearby hold thousands of ducks, geese, cormorants and gulls — one of the best birding spots in Nepal. Dolphins are sometimes seen below the gates.
Good to know
Photography of the barrage structure may be restricted; follow signs and security instructions. Koshi Tappu reserve lodges are a short drive away.
Quick answers
- Where is Koshi Barrage?
- Koshi Barrage is in Saptari district, Madhesh Province, in the Terai belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Koshi Barrage?
- About 70 m (230 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Koshi Barrage?
- For a 3-day trip from Biratnagar, about NPR 5,000 (≈ US$37) per person on a budget, or NPR 11,000 (≈ US$81) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 5,000 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Koshi Barrage?
- Plan 1 night there; with travel from Biratnagar and back, about 3 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Koshi Barrage?
- No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
- When is the best time to visit Koshi Barrage?
- November–March
- How do I get to Koshi Barrage?
- On the East–West Highway between Itahari and Rajbiraj. It is about 35 km (straight line) from Biratnagar.
- What is Koshi Barrage called in Nepali?
- कोशी ब्यारेज
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