Pokhara is one of few cities in the world that ticks all the right boxes. With picture-like scenery and a plethora of food and accommodation choice, it has reigned over as the number one touristy city for decades in Nepal. However, there is more to this city than its laidback charm. Because of its adventurous landscape, Pokhara is gradually being recognized as a great adventure tourist hub. This City of Lakes is filled with a galore of adventure sports for experienced and inexperienced, young and old alike. From soaring in the sky for an hour in a paraglider to rafting all the way to Chitwan, there is something for everyone. Here we have presented a list of six adventure sports to experience in Pokhara.

Paragliding

Pokhara is arguably the best paragliding venue in the world. Almost all flights take off from a hilltop called Sarangkot that is located at an elevation of 1,450 meters. Upon undertaking the flight, you will have the most mesmerizing views of the towering Annapurna and Machhapuchhre on one side and the buzzing Pokhara city on the other side. Below you will be the vast yet quaint Phewa Lake perfectly mirroring the mountain views. On top of that, the glider lands just beside the lake, which makes the experience even more adventurous and delightful. If you are qualified enough, you can even undertake a solo flight, a tandem flight, and even compete in the annual paragliding competition.

Bungee Jumping

Bungee Jumping is a relatively new but a highly gratifying adventure sport to undertake in Hemja, in the outskirts of Pokhara. Unlike the bungee at Tato Pani that is done from a suspension bridge, this one is done from a bungee tower atop a hill. The 70 meters jump from here towards the pond constructed near Myagdi river is a must-do sport for an adventure lover. The fact that you will land right beside the 10-feet-deep water pond is another wow factor of this experience. In addition to the stills and videos of your jump, you can even shoot a video from first-person perspective.

Mountain Biking

The trekking and hiking routes in and around Pokhara make great options for mountain biking. You can even choose from high altitude mountain biking to fairly simple and moderate biking packages. It is a great way to explore the outskirts of Pokhara and the nearby countryside that would have otherwise been left unexplored. On top of that, accentuated views of the western mountain make the experience even more joyful for bikers. You will also be able to witness the authentic Gurung culture and even experience their warm hospitality.

Ultralight flying

If you prefer an engine below you when you soar into the sky of Pokhara, there is a range of micro/ultralight flight options available. Imagine flying in an ultralight aircraft and hovering above peaks like Annapurna and Machhapuchhre. During the flights that range from duration of 20 to 90 minutes, you will have amazing views of eight-thousanders like Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Annapurna. The views of emerald valleys, lush meadows, beautiful villages, quaint countryside, and serene lakes add even more to your experience. It surely is a once in a lifetime opportunity that will give you a bucketful of memories to cherish for alifetime.

Rafting and Kayaking

With gushing strings of white waters, the milky Seti River is one of the most beautiful rivers in Pokhara. It is also believed to be the warmest. Since rafting was first introduced a decade ago, it has now clearly become one of the most popular adventure sports in Nepal. Specially, the route from Dobilla at Mardi to river dam at Simpani is one of the best rafting and kayaking routes. While every turn will keep you mesmerized with the vicinity’s beauty, every twist and bump will keep you exhilarated and thrilled. Rafting and kayaking in Seti River are two adventure sports that won’t make you bored for a second.

Trekking

The wide Pokhara valley is surrounded by giant hills on all sides and is open to a glut of adventurous trails of the Western Nepal. Almost all major treks in the Annapurna region begin from Pokhara, giving the city a nickname of “Gateway to Annapurna”. However, a lot of people don’t know that the buzzing city’s outskirts too boast of equally adventurous yet short trails for adventurers looking for a short getaway. For instance, the treks to Ghandruk, Dhampus, and Begnaskot will offer spectacular views of the western mountains and rare glimpses of the unscathed and authentic Gurung culture.