Top 5 Adventure Sports in #NepalNow

Nepal is synonymous with trekking and to a lesser extent, cultural holidays. There is much to see here- from the Himalayas to the Terai plains, Nepal compacts a diverse range of experiences into its limited square kilometers. However, did you know that Nepal also is the destination of choice for adrenaline junkies? Here’s a look into how the Himalayan kingdom is redefining itself as an adventure sports destination.

1. Sky-Diving

Imagine diving off a helicopter at 23000 ft above the Himalayan peaks with the Everest looming large in the background. Everest Skydive is now possible, with sessions available every October-November. One of the highest commercial aerial event and voted No. 9 in the ‘Best Adventure Events’ by CNN, Everest Skydive definitely takes the cake when it comes to extreme adventures in the Himalayas. Owing to its success, the same team has also brought Pokhara Skydive among our midst, where you will dive from a height of 13000 ft to soar above the ‘City of lakes’ with the Machapuchhre and Annapurna in the background.

Open – October –November

Cost – Begins from $22000 for Solo Skydive and $25000 for Tandem Skydive

Rush Points – 10/10

2. Bungy & Swing

Head to The Last Resort for the world’s longest freefall off a 170 m high suspension bridge to kiss the raging Bhote Koshi river below.

If hanging upside down while tied to the ankle does not necessarily appeal to you, opt for the Canyon Swing – the world’s highest swing jump for an equally electrifying thrill. Either way, you are guaranteed major bragging rights!

Open – All year round

Cost – Begins from $94

Rush Points – 8/10

3. Paragliding

Paragliding gives you an opportunity to soar above the greenery of Pokhara valley for a fraction of the cost of a Sky-dive. You still get a bird’s eye view of the Himalayas and additionally you can also opt in for a few aerial acrobatic-moves from your pilot. But be warned, the opt-in clause sends the Rush points into overdrive!

Open – September- November and February- April

Cost – Begins from $90

Rush Points – 7/10 for Tandem Flights

9/10 for Tandem Flights with Aerial Acrobatics

4. Zip-Lining

The latest addition to Nepal’s adventure sports scene, Zip-Lining in Nepal is as extreme as zip-lining can be. Not only is it “the world’s steepest, tallest and fastest zip line”, it also is in Pokhara, the Gateway to all Annapurna adventures.

Open – All year round

Cost – Begins from $ 68

Rush Points – 7/10

5. White-Water Rafting

You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to rafting, with commercial trips run on 10 rivers through the length of Nepal. By far the most popular choices are Trisuli and Bhote Koshi river due to their accessibility from Kathmandu. Day-trips to both rivers are possible with a typical rafting trip comprising of 3-5 hours of rafting in grade II –IV rapids.

Open- February – December

Cost – Begins from $65

Rush Points – 8/10