Nepal's Outdoor Activities

Nepal is probably the world's greatest outdoors destination.  The towering Himalaya mountains offer world class trekking, mountain biking, rafting, kayaking, paragliding and more.  Almost all these activities cost less than half the price in Nepal as they do in the US or New Zealand.

Trekking in Nepal

Nepal is the worlds greatest trekking destination.  From a single stroll in Pokhara, 2 to 21 days in the Annapurna or the trek to Everest Base Camp, there is something for everyone.  The hills of Nepal are littered with lodges where you can stay, adding to a unique experience.  Guides, porters and equipment are available in all trekking regions.

Short treks and day Hikes

If multi-day trekking isn't your thing then consider some of the short or single day treks.  The areas around Pokhara and Kathmandu are the best places for shorter treks.

Top 10 places for day hikes

1. Chitwan Hills
2. Bandipur
3. Tamang Heritage Trail, Langtang Region
4. Kathmandu Valley
5. Around Tansen
6. Tansen to Ranighat
7. Nagorkot
8. Shivapuri National Park
9. Pokhara's World Peace Pagoda
10. Around Pokhara (Rupa Tal, Begnas Tal and Sarangkot)

Mountain Biking in Nepal

Nepal has a incredible diverse terrain perfectly suited to mountain biking.  Nepal is gaining more and more recognition for its mountain biking and national and international events on the rise.  The Kathmandu valley area is probably the best place. Mountain bikes in Nepal are generally cheap bikes made in India, and not suitable for serious off road riding.  Proper bikes are available locally for NRs700 per day, or you might want to consider bringing your own bike.

Rafting and Kayaking in Nepal

Nepal is one of the best places in the world for rafting and kayaking, with outstanding river journeys for all experience levels. Warm water, a subtropical climate (without any bugs) and huge white sandy beaches that are ideal for camping add to the appeal.  September to December is the best time, after that the water and air gets cold. Beginners can try a 4 day kayak clinic course for US$180.  Rafting requires less initial instruction.  There are rivers all over Nepal with amazing views.  Pokhara is a good place to sign up. Bring cheap underwater cameras from home to take pictures when rafting or kayaking.

Bungee Jumping in Nepal

The 'ultimate bungee' straddles a mighty 160m drop into the gorge of the Bhote Kosi at The Last Resort, 12km from the Tibetan border.  It's one of the worlds longest bungee jumps, even higher than any in New Zealand.  It costs US$80 from Kathmandu including all transport and lunch.

Canyoning

Canyoning is a combination of abseiling, climbing, sliding and swimming that has been pioneered in the canyons and waterfalls near The Last Resort and Borderlands.  Both companies run two-day canyoning trips for about US$100.

Paragliding

Pokhara is the place to head for as Sarangkot offers perhaps the best paragliding in the Indian subcontinent.  With a Himalayan backdrop where could be better?  Flights are a single tandem experience, or a multi-day solo affair.  November to January are the best times to paraglide.

Rock Climbing

Kathmandu has rock climbing schools, others are also on the road from Kathmandu to Pokhara and also in Manang.