Power gliding in Pokhara

It can be said that Nepal is one among the top adventure destinations in the world because of the country's extremely varied geography that is spaced within short distances. The immense contrast in altitudes creates climates that support a spectacular mix of lifestyles and biodiversity. This is probably the only country in the world where you can climb some of the highest mountains in the world, then trek into scenic countryside, and then enjoy a safari tour in the subtropical climes of the Terai without losing the view of the icy pinnacles that are always in the background.

Mountaineering perhaps is what the country is best known for but this is a specialist-sport, and maybe not every person's cup of tea. But with the recent trend all over the world of keeping one's body physically fit, various adventure sports have been developed in which no special skill is required of participants at the entry level. Just being physically fit is all that matters. And what better place is there in the world to take a beginners shot in such programs than in Nepal? Moreover, soft adventures like mountain-flights and ballooning can be enjoyed by all ~ where all one does is sit back and enjoy the ride!

Window view on a mountain flight

Daily Mountain Flights
A must on the itinerary for those on a very short visit, the Daily Mountain Flight is a dramatic experience not to be missed. The hour-long flight offers spectacular views of the Himalaya from very close range. Flights operating from Kathmandu let you see peaks east of the Langtang Range all the way to Khangchendzonga, of course including Mt. Everest. The Pokhara Mountain Flight goes over the Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Manaslu ranges.

Power Gliding
A less sedate alternative for a mountain-flight but quite likely more adventurous, the Avia Club Nepal in Pokhara offers a variety of flying programs ranging from 15 minutes to an hour in ultralight power gliders.

Ballooning in Pokhara

For an even more exclusive adventure you should consider ballooning which will take you on a spectacular early morning flight above the Kathmandu valley. Taking off from Kirtipur and landing in Bhaktapur, it carries you over all the major landmarks of the valley and gives you a unique perspective on the Himalaya which loom beyond. This magical one hour flight is guaranteed to leave you exhilarated.

Paragliding in Pokhara

With seven-years experience of flying the Annapurna region, Sunrise Paragliding has been working hard to promote paragliding as a major sport in the country and stand unrivalled in their knowledge of the conditions, sites and potential.

Operations are based in the Annapurna region, more specifically the Pokhara valley, because the micro-climate of the valley makes it an ideal area for flying, with far more constant conditions than that of the Kathmandu valley. Nestled at the foot of the Annapurna range, the lakeside town of Pokhara, Nepal's second city, commands a spectacular view of the Himalayan giants. And with an altitude of 800 meters only, its subtropical climate allows for shorts and T-shirt all the year round.

For those with no paragliding experience, there is the option to take a ride in tandem with a verteran pilot, or to join in a training program, three sets of 3-day courses, and become a pro!

Dynasty Aviation Ecuriell

Of course, there may be other inaccessible parts of the country that you're determined to see but that can't be reached by commercial flights. In which case you'll be pleased to know that helicopter charters can easily be arranged through a number of reputable operators. This is opening to unique sight-seeing trips, adventurous heli-skiing or heli-trekking exploration or the chance to capture your own breathtaking aerial photographs.

Biking in Nagarkot

One good way to explore Nepal's countrysides is on a mountain bike. The diverse terrain is a mountain biker's dream come true. Mountain biking offers an environmentally sound way of exploring this magnificent country, it's landscape, and living heritage.

There are plenty of dirt roads and trails all over the country to meet every mountain biker's wildest dreams. The adventurous who dare may wish to take extended trips to places as far away as the extreme western or eastern corners of the country along the East-West Highway. Or, to Namche Bazaar or the Everest Base Camp?

Bhote KoshiUltimate Bungy

Nepal's first bungy jumping site is situated 160 meters over the wild Bhote Koshi River, and located close to the Nepal-Tibet border, a three-hour bus ride from Kathmandu. The jump, at 160 meters was designed by one of New Zealand's leading bungy consultants, and is operated by some of the most experienced jump masters in the business.