Top 5 Outdoor Activities In Nepal You Need To Pay Attention To-2019
By: Hawrry Bhattarai
Tags: Travel, Trekking In Nepal, Activities, Hiking, Outdoors

From Hiking Base Camp Of Everest, Annapurna To Heli Tours, Cultural Sites & Adrenaline Activities. Here Are Some Top 5 Outdoor Activities In Nepal You Need To Pay Attention To.

The Himalayan country Nepal is sandwiched between two giants India and China. The country is blessed with exceptional natural beauty. Soaring high Himalayas, rugged terrain, verdant mountains, raging river, dense jungle with exotic flora and wildlife Nepal!

Adventure lovers indulge in a variety of adventure activities in Nepal. Towering high Himalayas for climbing expeditions, trekking to get closer to the high mountains; raging river to indulge in white water rafting; amazing thermals to paraglide and feel like a bird. Wildlife safaris take you up close to endangered animals. Nepal certainly lives up to the reputation of being an adventure lover’s paradise.

Besides fuelling adventure junkie within you, marvel at the medieval cultural heritage sites listed by UNESCO. Want to get more detailed information in ‘ where to go in Nepal?’ and ‘which is the best time to visit Nepal?’ then read more!

#1 Trekking and Hiking:

Trekking and hiking is the best way to savour the jaw-dropping scenery of Nepal Himalayas.

What kind of trekker are you — novice or experienced? Are you searching for an easy, moderate or a challenging trek? Choose from a wide variety of trekking opportunities Nepal offers!

Classic Treks:

Every trekking enthusiast’s dream is to trek on the classic trails of Nepal. Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit are the popular classic treks of Nepal.

In the early years, the trek to Everest Base Camp was done through Jiri which was then known as the ‘Gateway to Mount Everest.’ With the establishment of Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla, Lukla became a popular starting point of Everest Base Camp Trek.

The most popular classic trek of Nepal to Everestrewards you with breathtaking views of the tallest mountain in the world and surrounding mountains. Enjoy your acclimatization day in the bustling town of Namche Bazaar. Also, trek to Sagarmatha National Park and savour the wonderful sight of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Pumori, and Ama Dablam. The national park is the habitat of rare red panda and snow leopard. Experience the Sherpa culture and enjoy the local hospitality.

You will see an amphitheatre of mountains when you reach Everest Base Camp but not Mount Everest. Since Mount Everest isn’t visible from its base camp, trekkers trek to Kala Patthar to get the best view of the tallest mountain in the world. The highest point of your trek is Kala Patthar, 5550 meters high. The standard route of Everest Base Camp trek will take two weeks of time. In terms of difficulty level, it is ranked as moderate.

Annapurna region was opened to foreign trekkers in 1977 and the Annapurna circuit is the early trekking route used by the trekkers. The classic trek of Annapurna Circuit will take you through two river valleys Kali Gandaki River Valley and Marshyangdi River Valley. A trek through lush green jungles to arid mountains, it features one of the most scenic and diverse landscapes the country has to offer! Relish the incredible close-up views of high mountain peaks like Dhaulagiri, Annapurna Massif, and Lamjung Himal.

Trek to one of the beautiful and high altitudes Lake Tilicho and Ice Lake and walk past the deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki. Thorong La Pass situated at an elevation of 5460 meters or 17913 feet is the highest point of your trek. Experiencing mountain culture is a fascinating aspect of this trek. The moderately difficult Annapurna Circuit Trek takes somewhere between 15 to 20 days to complete depending on the route you take.

Treks off-the-beaten-path

If you feel the classic treks are too mainstream then go for the Manaslu Circuit Trek that lies off-the-beaten-path.It ranks as a strenuous trek in terms of difficulty but is undoubtedly a rewarding trek. You will be trekking under the foothills of the 8th highest mountain in the world, Manaslu which is 8163 meters high. Enjoy the astounding views of Mount Manaslu and Ganesh Himal along with the mesmerizing sight of peaks like Himlung, Buddha Himal,Annapurna II, and others along the way.

A trek through the forest, glaciers, and waterfalls is an exciting concoction. Trek through Manaslu Conservation Area where Snow Leopard, Himalayan Tahr, Blue Sheep, and other animals and birds live. The highest point of your trek is the Larkya La Pass 5160 meters high. The duration of the Manaslu Circuit Trek ranges from 15 to 20 days.

Family Trek:

Enjoy the experience of trekking with family amidst the natural beauty of Nepal.

Trek with your family to Ghorepani Poon Hill. It will be an introductory trek for your children- a breakthrough trek for many future adventures in your children’s life. The famous vantage point of Annapurna Region, Poon Hill is the highlight of this trek. You can see the sunrise over the panorama of Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail and surrounding mountain peaks from Poon Hill. The highest point of the trek is Poon Hill situated at 3210 meters.

Enjoy the local hospitality in the area, inhabited by the ethnic groups like Gurungs and Magars. You will also get to relax by taking a hot spring bath too. You can do Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in around 9 days but can be shortened! If you start and end the trek in Pokhara, it can be shortened to 4 days.

Trekking to Dhampus and Australian Camp with your family is a great option. Start your day with a mesmerizing sunrise over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range from Sarangkot and trek to Australian Camp. Australian camp features astounding views of Annapurna Massif and neighbouring mountains. Walkthrough lush jungle on your way to Dhampus. Enjoy the hospitality of the locals in a Gurung village, Dhampus which overlooks stunning views of Annapurna Massif, Fishtail and Annapurna South. You can enjoy this easy and scenic trek with family in 2 days where the starting and ending point will be Pokhara. You will be attaining a maximum elevation of 2050 meters at Australian Camp.

Trek to Mohare Danda, a hill located between mountains like Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Mohare Danda (Hill) trek is an awesome trek to enjoy with your family. The hill overlooks the breathtaking views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range and is also popular for amazing sunrises and sunsets over the Himalayan range. Trek through lush forest with oak, bamboo, and rhododendron trees. Experience the warm hospitality of Gurungs and Magars and get a glimpse of their daily life. It will take around 10 to 12 days to do this trek.

Plan your Himalayan Adventure!

Hiking:

Do you want to enjoy the beautiful landscape of Nepal Himalayas? But trekking isn’t your cup of tea and helicopter tour is out of budget. Then we suggest you go hiking.

If you are in search of destinations for hiking in Nepalthen read further,

Champa Devi Hiking of Kathmandu will take you to a hill overlooking wonderful views of Kathmandu valley, gorgeous mountain peaks, and Lake Taudaha. Upon trekking to the third-highest hill of Kathmandu valley you will attain the maximum height of 2278 meters. Take a short hike through a forest reach the temple of the goddess Champa Devi, protecting the hill near the top of the hill. There’s a Buddhist monastery en route.

Sarangkot of Pokhara is also a popular place to watch sunset and sunrise over the Himalayas. Sarangkot Hike to Naudandai s the best day hike if you wish to enjoy the stunning views of mountains in a short period of time. The 360-degree view of Pokhara valley and Lake Phewa from Sarangkot with the backdrop of snow-capped mountains will remain with you for a long time. The highest point of the hike is Sarangkot at 1600 meters.

If you are searching for one of the shortest hikes in Nepal then, Peace Pagoda Hike of Pokhara is apt for you! Cross the popular Phewa Lake on a boat and start your hike up to the Peace Pagoda. Pass through dense forest with steep trails before approaching the dome-shaped stupa. A white Peace Pagoda with a gold gajur symbolizes peace and was built by monks of Nipponzan-Myōhōji group. The hike will reward you with the stunning view of Phewa Lake and verdant hills with stunning mountains in the backdrop.

#2 Cultural and City Tour

The cultural and city tour of Kathmandu valley is a fascinating affair. Visit the cultural heritage of Nepal which is listed in UNESCO’s world heritage sites. Out of 8 cultural heritage sites listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Kathmandu valley is home to 7 of them.

See more: Kathmandu Heritage Site Tour and Kathmandu Ancient City Tour

The three medieval kingdoms of Kathmandu Valley — Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and Patan Durbar Square- allure and charm its onlookers. The Durbar Squares are filled with pagoda-style temples, monuments, and statues which reflect the fine craftsmanship of ancient times. The rulers of Kathmandu valley promoted wood, stone, and metal works giving artisan ample opportunity to master their craft which is evident in the form of cultural heritage.

Visit the holy Hindu temple situated on the banks of River Bagmati in Kathmandu, Pashupatinath. The 5th-century temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva where only Hindus can enter. However, non-Hindus can access other parts of this big Hindu temple. As per legend, Lord Shiva and Parvati were staying in a forest as antelopes and gods were searching for them. Shiva was forced to resume his real form upon being grabbed by horns. Over a period of time horn was buried and lost. Centuries later it was found along with divine linga of Pashupatinath.

If you have never seen an open-air cremation then you might get a chance to witness one in Arya Ghat in the temple premises. Those cremated on the ghats of Pashupatinath are believed to be reborn as humans regardless of their bad karma.

The stupa of Swayambhunath residing on top of a hill is a site of religious importance for Buddhist of Nepal. Enjoy the view of Kathmandu from the hilltop but be aware of monkeys goofing around where it gets its tourist name Monkey Temple. According to legend Swayambhunath, meaning self-created was formed out of a lotus flower blooming in the middle of a lake which once covered the Kathmandu valley. Bodhisattva Manjushri saw the lotus and drained the water to build the Swayambhunath.

Circumambulate the popular stupa of Boudhanath along with monks and devotees. The center of importance for Tibetan Buddhist, Boudhanath is believed to have the remains of Kasyapa Buddha under the stupa. Visit Changu Narayan temple, listed in UNESCO World Heritage sites. The two-story temple of Changu Narayan dedicated to Lord Vishnu is perched on a hilltop near Bhaktapur. The oldest temple of Kathmandu valley, Changu Narayan features beautiful stone, wood and metal carvings of ancient times.

Visit the birthplace of Gautam Buddha in Lumbini which is also listed in UNESCO’s World Heritage sites. Lumbini lies approximately 270 km from Kathmandu. Visit the Maya Devi temple, the site where Gautam Buddha was born. Click pictures in front of the Ashok Pillar built to mark the birthplace of Gautam Buddha back in 249 BCE. Also, visit Buddhist monasteries and stupas and sign up for a meditation class run by Buddhist monks.

#3 Helicopter Tour

Want to enjoy the close-up view of majestic mountains but trekking isn’t possible due to various reasons? Worry not; you can take a helicopter ride. Hop onto a helicopter and enjoy the soaring high mountains from its comfort. Let’s find out more about helicopter tours in Nepal.

You want to see Everest in person but physical fitness and time are the issues then take a tour of Everest in a helicopter. You will be flying high and parallel to the gigantic mountain ranges while basking in its beauty from the comfort of your helicopter. Feel the cold air as you hop out of the helicopter in a brief stopover at Kala Patthar, a popular vantage point to see Everest.

If you fear missing out on the joys of trekking when taking a Heli tour of Everest region then enjoy the best of both worlds by trekking to Everest and flying back by helicopter. Check out our Everest Base Camp Heli Trek and Everest Base Camp Gokyo Lakes Helicopter Trek.

With Langtang Helicopter tour, you can enjoy the awesome views of Langtang valley. It is the closest trekking region to Kathmandu. Relish the impressive views of Langtang National Park along with Nepalese and Tibetan peaks from the comfort of your helicopter as you approach Langtang valley. The long stretch of Himalayan peaks includes the awesome views of Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lakpa, Paldor peak, and others.

Feel the cold breeze of Langtang as you land at Kyanjin Gompa located inside the Langtang National Park. Take a lot of pictures and enjoy your refreshment in a local cafe in a brief stopover. Enjoy the bird’s-eye view of Gosaikunda Lake and traditional villages along the Tamang Heritage trail- Briddim, Gatlang, Syabru Besi and others while returning from Langtang valley.

Plan your Himalayan Adventure!

#4 Nature and Wildlife

Jungle safari is a unique way to get closer to rare and endangered flora and wildlife of Nepal. Go for a nature walk, bird watching, canoeing, and other jungle activities!

The first national park of Nepal, Chitwan National Park is a famous tourist destination for jungle safari. The national park is also listed among UNESCO’s natural World Heritage site. The grassland of Chitwan National Park is one of the tallest grasslands in the world. Nepal’s Big Five, Royal Bengal Tiger, One-horn Rhinoceros, Asian Elephant, Gharial crocodile and spotted deer registered as endangered live here.

Ride on an elephant or go on a jeep safari and get closer to wildlife. Call yourself lucky if you spot an elusive and endangered Royal Bengal tiger. Visit Elephant Breeding Center and see mother elephant with their calves. Chitwan National Park Safari will take you canoeing where marsh muggers and alligators dwell. Enjoy a cultural evening with Tharu cultural program.

#5 Adventure Activities:

Feel your adrenaline rush as you jump from one of the top destinations for a bungee jump in the world, Nepal. Your Bungy jump destination is around 100km from Kathmandu at Kodari. Don’t worry shuttle service is available. You will be jumping from a suspension bridge amidst verdant hills. Face your fear as you jump 160 meters into raging River Bhote Koshi. It’s an amazing experience beyond words!

Thermals of Pokhara city favor Paragliding so fly in the sky of the city with unparalleled beauty. Soar high and enjoy a bird’s eye view of Pokhara valley, Lake Phewa, and Himalayan ranges. You will be flying from Sarangkot along with an experienced pilot who will be manoeuvring the flight.

One of the most famous rivers for rafting in Nepal is Trishuli. Enjoy rafting in River Trishuli amidst lush hills with rapids like Ladies’ Delight, S Bend, Upset, and others. The sandy river beach of Trishuli is a famous sport for lunch and bonfire at night. Since the drive to River Trishuli is only 3 hours’ drive from Kathmandu, it’s a great choice for a day trip. Many tourists also stop here to raft as it lies on the way to Pokhara or Chitwan via road.

Wondering when is the best time to visit Nepal for your desired activity in Nepal? Read further.

Best time to visit Nepal

Autumn is the best time to visit Nepal; the day is warm with chilly morning and night. In autumn, monsoon cloud would have spread greenery, filled rivers, and cleared the sky. It’s the best time for trekking, hiking, and a helicopter ride, where the clear sky will give you uninterrupted views of majestic mountains. It’s also the best time for paragliding, jungle safari, and white water rafting.

Warm and pleasant season of spring is the second-best season for trekking, hiking and helicopter rides. Rhododendron blooms will add colour to your trekking trail through the forest. The sky is mostly clear but haze and occasional showers could interrupt the view. It’s also favourable for jungle safari and rafting. You can go for cultural heritage tour all around the year and each season comes with its own perks.

Hot and humid summer months are accompanied with monsoon so it is the least popular for trekking. If you hit the trail, expect rainfall, interrupted views of mountains along with leeches. However, you will get to keep the trail to yourself! Nevertheless, trekking in monsoon to the rain shadow regions of Nepal like Upper Mustang, Dolpo and parts of Manaslu is enjoyable. Day hike could be fun if the weather favours.

In winter, high mountains are freezing cold; mid-hills like Kathmandu and Pokhara are cold while lowlands of Terai become pleasant. In this season, you can trek to the foothills of mountains like Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. But high pass treks could be risky due to heavy snowing and freezing temperatures. Wildlife excursion will be fun with warm and dry daytime, increasing the chance of spotting animals in the wild.

Plan your trip with travel experts of Third Rock Adventures:

Nepal is famous as trekker’s Paradise but it has more to present than just trekking. If you are an adventure lover then you can do trekking and hiking, take a helicopter ride, and many more. If jungles and wildlife appeals you then Nepal has one of the tallest grasslands in the world with endangered wildlife. If cultural heritage and historical places attract you then UNESCO listed cultural heritage sites are the pride of Nepal.

Let us help you in your quest of adventure, cultural, or nature, and wildlife activities in Nepal. Benefit yourself from our travel experts who have years of experience. Check out our different packages and book a trip with us for an unforgettable time in Nepal.