• Modified on Mar 18, 2024

The outstanding untamed diversity and wide range of strange cultures make Nepal a flawless place for exploration and trekking. Nepal being an adventure seeker's Shangri-la in Asia, is known for the astonishing unique Himalayan trekking trails and mountainous regions, is one of the best destinations to pick if you are up for getting gratified in the adventure vacations. Whether you are seeking strenuous trekking and hiking in Nepal or simply enjoy the blood-pumping activities. Nepal is sure to offer you the most suitable choices where you can forget all your thoughts and worries to enjoy what Nepal has to present.

Nepal is interchangeable with adventure. A large number of adventure lovers come here to partake in rafting, trekking, mountain climbing, and bungee jumping along with other adventure choices such as rock-climbing, Slacklining, Kayaking, and Zip-line flying. Among the Top holiday destinations in the world enrolled by Tripadvisor, Lonely Planet, and other popular travel guides, Nepal comes within the top 5 standings. Nepal is a virtuously blessed nation that has a natural beauty that is beyond imagination, and a culture that you can't find in any part of the globe.

The adventure activities include quests and travel to the most unknown and remote places and enjoying each and every moment. In recent years, the sensation of extreme sports is gradually picking its pace in the little Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal. In this wonderland, you can experience some of the most mentally and physically demanding adventure sports in an exotic destination. Trekking has been the special product of Nepal and is still chosen by adventure seekers coming from different corners of the world. Jungle safari in the flat lands of the Terai is selected to encounter the rare species of birds and animals that have been conserved under the National Parks of Nepal. White water rafting on the mystic rivers flowing from the mighty Himalayas and crossing the distinct section of Nepal's topography is equally famous. Mountain biking in the outstanding terrains of hills and mountains is another awesome wonderful adventure sport in Nepal. Paddling the rural routes of the rarely visited areas you will explore grinning local faces living a genuine life in amiability and practicing their own culture along with their own multifarious language in different regions of Nepal. Similarly, you can enjoy the stimulating experience of bungee jumping over the high bridge of Bhote Koshi or Kali Gandaki river, one of the world's most outlandish raging rivers that rushes down from the Himalayas. Nepal has so much to deliver and here are the top adventure sports to experience in Nepal.

Table of Content

Trail running in Nepal 

As the world is getting attracted to trail marathons, Nepal is also considered the perfect destination for trail running. As our Nepalese women trail runner Mira Rai has achieved so many recognitions in the international market, the craze for trail running in Nepal has also increased in recent years. The geographies are sensational, and the high altitudes brutal. Nepal must be the country with the most peculiar affinity between the availability of spectacularly beautiful trail running topography and great infrastructure for trail running. Apart from being competent to run almost anywhere and find basic accommodations, what makes trail running in Nepal special are the people and their culture. You will be astounded by the spectacular views that you encounter during your trail running. Nepal is dwelling on quite a few track races. Most races are arranged by trekking companies rather than proficient trail race organizers. The most recognized one is the Everest Ultra Marathons. Some of the other popular trail running routes in Nepal are:

  • Upper Mustang Trail Race (happens in April)
  • Mardi Himal Segment: Forest Camp to High Camp (7.4 km)
  • Nagarkot to Kattikey Nature Trail (4.7 km)
  • Langtang Valley to Kyanjin Ri (17.5 km)
  • Everest Ultramarathon (60 km)

The most elongated trail in Nepal is Manaslu-Tsum Valley- Annapurna Trail. This trail is around 300 km long and takes a moderate 133 hours to finish. So, if you are planning for the trail running in the best terrains in the world, then Nepal can be on your bucket list. 

Mountain Biking in Nepal 

Nepal offers some world-famous bike trails that are full of challenges and exhilarating activities. On this lifelong trip, you get to explore the incredible scenery of nearby surroundings which you can't encounter from helicopters or vehicles. You get a prospect to explore little villages along with the authentic lifestyles of locals and observe their daily life closely. Throughout your biking journey, you pass via age-old valleys, villages, breathtaking hills, and rivers that will surely take your breath away. Mustang is regarded as one of the world's best and most formidable cycling destinations. Upper Mustang hosts the world's highest altitude bike race, "The Yak Attack". The riders ride at an average altitude of 4,000 m. Mountain bikes are readily available for rent in the multiple rental outlets in and near Kathmandu and Pokhara. Mountain biking is also deemed the fastest-growing sports action in Nepal. The typical mountain biking routes near Kathmandu valley are Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, Hattiban, Daman, Chisopani, and Dakshinkali. Furthermore, there are specific places in Nepal outside the valley like Annapurna and Mustang Region. The best time to go mountain biking in Nepal is between mid-October and late March. As in these seasons, the atmosphere is temperate which offers warm days and cool mornings and nights. Some of the well-renowned biking trails in Nepal are:

Bungee Jumping in Nepal

Nothing can excel the heart-pounding elements of bungee jumping. Nepal has some of the world's highest bungee sites among which Bungee Jump over the Kaligandaki is the world's second-highest and Bhotekoshi is the world's third-highest bungee jump. Kushma Bungee Jump is Nepal's most elevated and world's second-highest bungee spot at the height of 228 meters. This bungee spot is encountered on the border of the Baglung and Parbat districts of Nepal. These two districts are hooked by the 520-meter suspension bridge in the George of Kaligandaki river. Besides this, The Last Resort (160 m) and High-ground Bungee Jump (70 m) are the other two bungee jump spots in Nepal. The best time to hop is in the morning. This ideal adventure sport will offer the visitors the real adventure of falling from a high altitude at natural places. This bungee experience is sufficient to give you shudders and is regarded as the most trending adventure sport in Nepal. Some of the major Bungee Jumping spots in Nepal are:

  • The Cliff (Kushma, Parbat)
  • High-Ground Bungee (Pokhara)
  • The Last Resort (Tatopani, Sindhupalchowk)

man bungee jumping

Paragliding in the vast sky  

Pokhara is considered the central hub for air sports. If you choose a slightly excessive altitude, endeavor paragliding in Pokhara. You can do it solo or in pairs with a pilot. You will hover over a lake at 2,000 ft with a background of some of Nepal's most elevated mountains such as the Annapurna Massif, Manaslu, Fishtail, and Dhaulagiri. Paragliders are light, foot-launched, free-flying gliders with an awning. It will certainly give you the sensation as if you are gliding like a hawk in an extensive open sky. It is sufficient to give you the views and remembrances of your lifetime. While waiting in the vast sky, you can experience bird's eye views of underside valleys, forests, rivers, stunning landscapes, and many more. This amazing adventure sport is perfect for sharing the airspace with some of the species of birds in the sky of Pokhara. While in Nepal you can't miss famous experiences open-air sports activity as far and wide as feasible. Sarangkot is an amazing outlook point and the most notable end of the line for paragliding in Nepal. The famous paragliding competition is also organized occasionally to increase the engagement of youths in this wonderful action sport. Paragliding in Nepal is prevalent during the year but November and December are deemed the perfect season. The most famous places in Nepal for this thrilling paragliding are:

  • PokharaParagliding
  • Kot Danda Paragliding
  • Bandipur Paragliding
  • Phulchowki Paragliding

two men smiling during paragliding

Rock Climbing in Nepal 

It is a challenge itself to stroll on the most formidable terrains and once you are done with the activity you will undoubtedly feel like you have accomplished something really great. Rock climbing is deemed one of the notable adventure sports in which players will ascend the rocks at artificial rock walls or natural formations. It is viewed as one of the most onerous games which indicate it will require the proper symmetry of body and mind. The foremost way to make your rock climbing activity safer is the use of technical climbing gears and an understanding of the proper techniques of climbing. There are several natural ridges and artificial rock walls to perform rock climbing nearby and outdoors in the Kathmandu valley. In this blood-pumping sport, a mark is fixed on the rock, and climbers bound on ropes with the help of harnesses have to climb to the lid of the rock. Besides natural spots, there are several good indoor climbing walls inside Kathmandu valley if you want to experience wall climbing before attempting rock climbing on the natural cliff.

Regarding the difficulty level, you will be conditioned by the climbing specialists so there is nothing to worry about. But the risk is high and climbers also need to be physically and mentally fit to hop in for this activity. The best season for rock climbing is considered the spring season i.e. between March and mid-May. These are the prime rock climbing sites in Nepal:

  • Hattiban Rock Climbing
  • Bimal Nagar Rock Climbing
  • Shivapuri Rock Climbing

Experience the thrill of Skydiving

Basically, there are two major sky diving spots in Nepal. One is famous as the Everest skydive and the other is Pokhara Skydive. Everest skydive delivers a bird's eye view of the picturesque mountains, deep valleys, and glaciers of eastern Nepal that are overwhelmed by Mount Everest

Those who desire low threat or challenge can attempt Pokhara Skydiving. Skydiving in Pokhara delivers extraordinary views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges along with the aerial views of the whole Pokhara valley and its exceptional Begnas and Fewa Lake. Everest diving is the most stimulating as compared to Pokhara skydiving as the free fall takes place near the world's highest peak, Mount Everest. While free-falling, skydivers earn an opportunity to encounter the extremely close beauty of Everest along with Lhotse, Pumori, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and many more sensational peaks.

Skydiving is believed to be the most intense adventure sport in the world. CNN has recorded Everest Skydiving at 8th position out of the 50th most adventuring occasions in the world. The complete experience is recorded with a GoPro so that you can relive the whole exhilarating adventure again and again. This extreme adventure sport is an adrenaline-rushing experience that will make your heart beat faster and at the same time will leave you awestruck while you dive above the clouds and drop into the lap of nature. Two major happening spots for skydiving in Nepal are:

  • Pokhara Skydive (opens during November)
  • Everest Skydive (opens during October)

Trekking to the most amazing destinations in Nepal

Nepal proudly offers exquisite and challenging treks from the east to the west. Graded as easy, moderate, and extreme difficulties, it is up to the trekkers which trekking trails they wish to select, hard ones or easier ones. The high-altitude treks of Nepal are insanely popular all around the world among travel lovers because of the rewards and adventure they offer. The sunrise and sunsets on the mountain seem heavenly and you could wander through beautiful forests, rivers, ethnic villages, and waterfalls to encounter the magnificent views of snow-capped mountains. Several trekking destinations are blessed with some of the most beautiful routes which have a culmination of both adventures with some jaw-dropping and soul-inspiring scenic beauties too. The treks are quite beautifully adorned with rich flora and fauna which just adds to the beauty of the trek. Also, you can make your adventure more compelling by trekking to the virgin destinations that Nepal has to offer. Dhorpatan, the high-altitude plateau in Western Nepal, is now more easily accessible for trekking and is still a destination for the most adventurous where only a rare number of foreigners visit the area each year. The best time to get involved in trekking activities in Nepal is from March to June and October to November. Other than that, you can explore various trekking paradises such as:

man and a woman walking in snow in mountains

Freshwater Rafting in Nepal 

Rafting refers to boating down on a fast-flowing stream of rivers using a rubber boat and paddle. With every bend, the scenic beauty of the landscapes encircling the river will leave you in wonder, and at the same time, the fast-flowing water will take you on an uneven ride that will continuously keep the thrill high. Rafting is indeed one of the leading adventure sports to experience while you are in Nepal. This stimulating water sport lures both domestic and international guests every year. Nepal is one of the ultimate places on Earth that has a large number of fast-flowing rivers which are adequate to make Nepal an ideal place for rafting. Two major rivers are well-known for rafting Bhotekoshi river rafting in Trishuli river rafting. Rafting adventure in these fast-flowing rivers is compelling because of the existence of beautiful scenic route ravines and great rapids but is equally demanding due to the steepness and the fast-flowing water system. This thrilling sport is an extremely physical activity that surely stimulates the adrenaline rush into the body.

 

The difficulty level of rafting can be ranked as easy to harsh according to the rapid level of rivers. Between September and early December and between March and June are believed the best time to get involved in this exhilarating activity as the weather stays best and the water is the warmest making it perfect for rafting. Some of the prominent rivers popular for rafting are: 

  • Marsyangdi River Rafting
  • Karnali River Rafting
  • Trishuli River Rafting
  • Bhotekoshi River Rafting
  • Seti River Rafting

Peak Climbing & Mountaineering 

People from around the globe dwell in Nepal to summit the most elevated peaks on the earth. Nepal is a small nation in terms of area but it is endowed with 8 of the 10 highest mountains in the world including Mount Everest which is the highest point on Earth. So, if you are seeking intense adventures, peak climbing is one of the most satisfactory thrilling adventure activities to accomplish in Nepal. In the initial grade you can choose to ascend Lobuche East, Imja Tse, or Mera Peak which will for sure help you mount more heightened mountains like Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Everest, etc if you desire to do that thereafter. Peak climbing is not an effortless task. It mandates more mental and physical fitness along with the aptitudes for climbing. You have to mount through rocks, crevasses, glaciers, strong winds, and finally the vertical pathway to the summit. These attributes make Nepal an ideal destination for peak climbing and are considered an alpine Shangri-la around the globe. Most of the trekking region offers you the possibility of peak climbing which can be truly a blood-pumping action for your body and mind. The Langtang region of Nepal is blessed with Naya Kanga Peak along with the stunning Yala Peak. Similarly, Chulu West Peaks, Chulu East Peak, and Tent Peak are the most esteemed peaks in the Annapurna Region. Everest territory offers you sensational peaks to climb such as Mera Peak, Island Peak Climb, Lobuche Peak, and numerous more. Peak climbing in Nepal will lead to a mostly rustic ravine and witness multi-cultures and explore through red blooming rhododendron woodland, subtropical pine forest, and abundant wildlife. The huge task of peak climbing is dreamed and desired of by millions but accomplished by only a few. Time, inner capability, money, and so many other factors determine if you would ever succeed in mounting one of them or face the most major setbacks.

mountaineer in maroon jacket and red helmet climbing a peak holding a rope

There are two distinct seasons for peak climbing in Nepal which are the Pre-Monsoon season (March-June) and Post-Monsoon (September-November), followed by some fewer winter ascents. Some of the major peaks famous for climbing in Nepal are:

  • Imja Tse (Island Peak) 6,189 m
  • Amadablam 6,812 m
  • Mera Peak 6,476 m 
  • Chulu West Peak Climbing 6,419 m
  • Lobuche Peak 6,119 m
  • Yala Peak Climbing 5,500 m 
  • Everest Expedition
  • Lhotse Expedition 
  • Manaslu Expedition and many more eight thousanders expeditions 

Mad Honey Hunting in Nepal

Honey hunting in Nepal is an authentic adventure experience in the beautiful hills of Nepal where you can witness the ancient practices of honey hunting. Visitors will be shaken by the courage of the honey hunters, who hang from the cliffs to acquire a living and excel at the ancient procedures that are still in use today. Kaski and Lamjung districts in Nepal are the most recognized for honey hunting activities in Nepal. Besides that, wild honey hunting is also equally in practice in the eastern region of Nepal. Various kinds of honeybees along with pertinent geographical locations made it a famous place for honey hunting. Hunting is a genuine and common activity of the Mongol community in Nepal but only specified and proficient ones dare for this restless activity.

man on a rope ladder to a mountain with honey hive hunting honey

Honey hunting is the gathering of honey from a wild species of bee known as Apis Laboriso, found in the unattended forest in the mountain territories of Nepal. This world’s largest honey bee makes it combs cliffs overhangs on rocky mountains. The bees get distracted by the smoke burnt by the honey hunters and a piece of the comb is sometimes cut off. The magical honey slice of the hive is brought down in baskets. People waiting below the ridge squeeze honey from the comb into customary pots. 

It is strongly considered that Tuesday is the finest day for beginning the honey-hunting occasion while Wednesday is not suited for this event. Also, either morning or evening time is thought perfect for honey hunting. This mad honey has some heavy hallucinating attributes if gulped more than recommended. Natives collect honey twice a year during the spring and autumn season. 

Zip lining in Nepal 

This adventure activity will be perfect for your day trip if you are in Kathmandu. After a short ride to Dhulikhel from Kathmandu, you can reach the zip-line spot. They offer different packages like superman, couple, and classic zip-line which will surely make your day worthwhile. Another famous one is in Pokhara which offers a nearly 2km long zip-line that reaches speeds of 120 km/h. The zip-line in Pokhara starts from Sarangkot (1625 m) and continues till Hemja Plain at an altitude of 960 meters. The weight limit is from 35 kg to 140 kg. This is a must-try adventure sport while you are in Nepal.

Jungle Safari Tours

Beyond the thrill of mountaineering or skydiving, the jungle safari adventure will surely take you to another level inside the wild. In the plain lands of the Terai region, you can get involved in jungle safari tours to encounter the beauty of different special national parks of Nepal. About 16% of the country’s area is under natural reserves, wildlife sanctuaries, and national parks. Ride on an elephant’s back or roam in the dense jungles in a jeep, it is totally your choice. In case it’s your lucky day, you might also spot the rare Royal Bengal Tiger or other unique birds and animals. The endangered species to spot during your safari tour are the one-horned rhinos, crocodiles, and elephants. The best jungle safari locations in Nepal are:

  • Chitwan National Park Safari 
  • Bardia National Park Safari 
  • Parsa National Park Safari 
  • Banke National Park Safari 

Two rhinos walking from river water to land at Chitwan National Park

Helicopter tours in Nepal 

Are you running short of time but still desire to witness the majestic snow-capped mountain ranges? You don’t need to do it on foot, helicopter tours will surely save your precious time and take you to a next level of adventure. You can book your helicopter tour and can visit beautiful destinations such as Everest Base Camp Heli Tour, Mustang Region Heli Tour, Gosaikunda Heli Tour, Tilicho lake, Shey Phoksundo Lake, and many more. You will be astounded by the exquisite mountain peaks, the turquoise lakes, and the rampant vegetation. Contact us to book your perfect Helicopter Tours in the lap of the Himalayas.

Conclusion

Nepal surprises with immaculate options to get involved in adventure activities that will be glued with you for a lifetime. Nepal has been there on the map of adventure lovers for a long time. There are numerous adventure activities to experience in Nepal besides the above-mentioned. Moreover, if you are visiting Nepal for the first time then it is suggested that you go for Swing or Bungee Jumping for the adventure experience. Also, you can enjoy paragliding or zip-line in Pokhara. 

Overall, if you are seeking a complete package of adventure and entertainment, you must visit Nepal once in your lifetime. Further, if you need any help regarding adventurous things to try in Nepal, please feel free to contact us

Abhishek Dhital

Abhishek Dhital

Abhishek Dhital relishes observing the customs and cultures of many regions of Nepal as a travel photographer, blogger, and certified trekking guide. He is a native of Dang, a stunning region in western Nepal. He was raised in the Inner Terai and has always loved to climb up to his hometown's highlands. He moved to Kathmandu after completing his schooling, where he received a bachelor's degree in Travel and Tourism Management from Nepal College of Travel and Tourism Management, Lazimpat. He stated, "When I began studying tourism, I became really attracted to its service approach and made the decision to become a professional tour guide and travel writer.

In 2015, he began his photographic journey. He gradually began traveling and shooting genuine grins and experiences. He is now discovering fresh and original techniques to market Nepal and give his clients first-rated service in the mountains.

He declared, "I am really happy to be a member of Footprint Adventure as I can develop my career in a booming tourism industry where I may get the chance to perform well and prove my abilities accepting challenges and pressures completing the organizational goal." He genuinely believes in the power of nature, and he thinks it can change people's outlooks and lead them to discover their life's purpose.