A beautiful tapestry of Hindu temples and Buddhist monasteries, the snow-clad mighty Himalayas, green forests and white rivers is what comes to one's mind when they think of Nepal. Cradled between two large countries of India and China, Nepal might be small in size but should not be underestimated. Astounding views are not the only things that the state has to offer, for if you are an adventure seeker Nepal is unbeatable. The chivalrous beauty of this place is doubled with the package of unlimited fun and excitement of the adventurous sports available here.
Let your hearts beat with a thrill as you undertake some of the most enticing outdoor activities here in Nepal. A steep adrenaline rush is guaranteed if you indulge in any of these sports. So, get out of your comfy beds in the hotels and do something worth remembering a lifetime. You would have done some of these activities in other countries, but the main fact lies in doing these in Nepal, a country boasting of the ravishing Himalayas. Here is a detailed list of such amazing thrillers.
1.Trekking
Ah! this is the first thing which comes to your mind when you think of adventure in Nepal. Quite reasonable, for here you have the golden opportunity to discover the Himalayas. Eight of the ten highest peaks in the world lies in Nepal - which is why it is a paradise for trekking enthusiasts all over the world. About 2,00,000 trekkers flock to Nepal every year in search of excitement and adventure. The Himalayan terrain provides for some of the most stunning trekking routes. No wonder why trekkers all over the world place Nepal on top of their checklist. As you begin on your marvellous journey, you will be in complete awe of the majestic beauty of the Himalayan ranges. Also, the antiquated lifestyle of these mountain dwellers will leave you in amazement.
Best Places for Trekking in Nepal:
1. Everest Base Camp 2. Annapurna Circuit 3. Poonhill trek 4. Manaslu Trek 5. Gokyo trek (east of the Everest Base Camp) 6. Upper Mustang 7. Upper Dolpo 8. Makalu base camp 9. Kanchenjunga
Cost
Long Treks: NPR 65,000 and NPR 5,46,000 (for eight to ten days). This is inclusive of permits, a guide, some transport to the trailhead (start of the trek), accommodation and meals (including your guides). Short Treks: NPR 6000 to NPR 7000 a day.
2. White Water Rafting
Nepal has one of the world's best whitewater rafting sites. Splash with the cool waters here as you go through one of the most exciting river rafting and kayaking experiences. The adrenaline rush reaches its acme as you row through serpentine ways, flanked by rocks and boulders. The water of most of the rivers here cascades from the snow-capped Himalayas into the river valley underneath. Emerald forests and blue skies make your river rafting journey even more beautiful. Watersports lovers, you definitely cannot miss this- the thrill here is way beyond your imagination.
Best Places for Rafting in Nepal:
1. River Seti 2. River Trishuli 3. River Sun Koshi 4. River Karnali.
Cost
10-Day trip: NPR 80,000 Day trip: Including transport and lunch usually cost around NPR 7000.
3. Paragliding and Parahawking
Do you want your heartbeat to race as you soar high in the blue Nepalese skies? Paragliding is an adventure you must not miss in Nepal. The panoramic views of the villages, monasteries, lakes, emerald jungles and temples are exhilarating. Fly with other birds like the Himalayan griffins, eagles, and kites. Another highlight is a recent sport called Parahawking. You can feed the birds as you fly by keeping a piece of meat on your gloved hands.
Best Places to go Paragliding in Nepal:
1. Himalayas 2. Annapurna range 3. Pokhara is the best place to do paragliding since the city has phenomenal sights. The lakes here look like blue dots as you glide in the sky. The take-off point is Sarangkot and Lakeside, Khahare, and Khapaudi is the landing point.
The rich biodiversity of Nepal has opened avenues for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Ride on an elephant's back or roam the dense jungles in a jeep- it is completely your choice. The southern lowlands of the country, widely known as Terai, are home to some of the most exotic species in the world. About 16% of the country's area is under natural reserves, national parks and wildlife sanctuaries - you have plenty of lands to explore the natural wilderness of the country. The endangered species to spot here are the crocodiles, one-horned rhinos and elephants. And, in case, you come across the magnificent Royal Bengal Tiger, you really are quite fortunate!
Jungle Safari Price: Starting from NPR 2000 to NPR 17,000
5. Canyoning
Canyoning is a water sport you must not miss in Nepal. The high altitude and the unique topography of the place means a canyoning experience you would never have had in your entire life. The rivers in Nepal are the cradle for the most thrilling and exciting adventures, and canyoning is one of them. As you climb over the karat rocks, you will be delighted to see the prepossessing scenery in the background. More importantly, the amazing waterfalls cascading into shallow pools here is what makes canyoning all the more alluring.
Best Place to go Canyoning in Nepal
1. The waterpark at the Jalbire Canyon 2. Bhotekoshi Valley (about 100 km from Kathmandu) 3. Kakani ( about 35 km from Kathmandu) 4. Marsyangdi valley 5. Sisneri (about 30 km from Kathmandu)
Cost
Day trip: Starting at NPR 4700 for Indian nationals (this includes both way transportation by bus, lunch and canyon activities). Other similar packages offered by other agencies usually costs around NPR 9000 to NPR 20,000 depending on the group size and other amenities provided.
6. Bungee Jumping
Bungee Jumping is one of the most heart-pounding experiences in the world. Fall off the steepest ravines and enjoy a free fall like nowhere else in the world. The bungee jump in Nepal was designed by one of New Zealand's leading bungee consultants. The friendly and experienced jumpers here ensure you have a safe freefall combined with a thrilling adrenaline rush. Adventure seekers, this is definitely your call!
Best Place to go Bungee Jumping in Nepal
1. Last Resort (160 metres) 2. Hemja (20 minutes from the Lakeside in Pokhara)
Cost
Last Resort: Starting from NPR 8500-NPR 9000 for one day (including equipment and one meal). Hemja: NPR 6500-NPR 7000.
7. Mountain Flights
Are you running short of time but still want to behold the spectacle of snow-clad mountains? Well, you do not need to do it on foot, for the mountain flights here have got you covered. You will be stupefied by the glorious peaks of mountains, the dense vegetation and the turquoise lakes. There are constant flights every day which enable you to fly close to the spectacular mountain ranges. Really lucky to see the peaks so closely with such less effort!
Best Place for Mountain Flights in Nepal
1. Buddha Air (50 minutes)
Cost
Locals and SAARC Citizens: NPR 11,550 Foreign nationals: NPR 16,000.
8. Rock Climbing
This is an adventure sport which has gained widespread popularity in recent years. The mountainous terrain in Nepal offers a really unique and exciting rock climbing experience. Beads of perspiration appear as you climb the rugged slopes, but every drop of sweat is worth the fun and adventure. The country has some excellent rock climbing options - for beginners, intermediate and professional climbers. Challenge yourself with these rocks in Nepal, and you will simply love it. As you wind to the top, the thickly growing vegetation nearby welcomes you with open arms.
Best Places for Rock Climbing in Nepal
1. Astrek Climbing Wall in Thamel, Kathmandu 2. Pharping (also called Hattiban) 3. Nagarjun Forest (a 20 minutes drive from Kathmandu) 4. Bimal Nagar (a 15 minutes drive from Bandipur) 5. Nagarkot 6. Namche Bazaar
Cost
Full-Day Pass at Astrek: NPR 400 Rental facilities: For harness and shoes are also available for NPR 100 each.
9. Heli-Skiing
Get a mind-stirring panoramic view of the mountain world in Nepal as you slide down the untouched, pristine slopes. Heli-Skiing has become quite popular these days, and those looking out for some electrifying experience in Nepal will not be disappointed. The powdered snow simply adds to the thrill and joy of exploring the remote mountain slopes. The fantastic Nepalese Himalayas allow you to witness their majesty and glory as you enjoy skiing here. Avid skiers, this is the right place for you to put your skiing skills to the test!
Best Places for Skiing in Nepal
1. Annapurna range 2. Mount Fishtail 3. Dhaulagiri 4. Makulu 5. Cho Oyu 6. Kanchenjunga 7. Dolpo Region
Cost
Seven-day package: Approximately NPR 8,00,000
10. Zip Flyer
Buckle up your belts for here in Nepal you will have the most thrilling ziplines to venture on. The steep and long zip lines here guarantee you minutes of acute thrill and adventure. You will be amazed by the dark green forests and the tall mountain ranges overlooking them. Nature's exceptional beauty here makes the zip flying experience even more memorable.
Best Places for Zip Flying in Nepal
1. Sarangkot (1625 metres) and continues till Hemmja Plain at a height of 960 metres. It is 1860 metres long, and the thrill here is unmatchable to anywhere else in the world.
Cost
Locals and SAARC citizens: NPR 8200 for Indian nationals whereas for other Foreigners: NPR 9000. Weight Limit: 35 kg to 140 kg.
Adventure junkies, you will fall in love with Nepal's outdoor activities. The plethora of activities here guarantee unlimited fun and excitement. The Himalayan country, with its phenomenal sights and mountain,s ensure hardcore adventure opportunities.