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
- Chitwan Hills
- Bandipur
- Tamang Heritage Trail, Langtang Region
- Kathmandu Valley
- Around Tansen
- Tansen to Ranighat
- Nagorkot
- Shivapuri National Park
- Pokhara’s World Peace Pagoda
- 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.