Bungee Jumping in Nepal: Three Sites Compared

Throwing yourself off a bridge is not everyone's idea of a holiday. For those who feel the pull, Nepal offers some of the most dramatic settings anywhere, with jumps into deep Himalayan gorges. Three sites dominate. They differ in height, location and how they fit into a trip.

The gorge near the border

The country's original bungee site lies about three hours' drive north-east of Kathmandu, in the valley of the Bhote Koshi River close to the frontier with Tibet. A steel suspension footbridge, built specifically for the purpose with Swiss engineering, spans a narrow, forested gorge. The drop from the bridge to the river is roughly 160 metres.

The experience. You walk out along the swaying bridge to the jump platform at its centre. Staff attach ankle harnesses and a body harness, check everything twice and count you down. The fall lasts several seconds before the cord takes up, and you rebound above the white water between rock walls. You are then lowered to the riverbank and climb back up a steep path, which takes around twenty minutes.

Other options. A canyon swing from the same bridge sends you into free fall and then into a huge pendulum arc through the gorge; some people find it more frightening than the bungee. Tandem swings are possible. The resort beside the bridge also runs canyoning, rafting on the river below and overnight stays in safari tents.

Logistics. Day trips leave Kathmandu early in the morning by bus and return in the evening. Staying a night makes for a more relaxed visit and allows a second activity. The road is winding and subject to landslides in the monsoon.

The high jump in the western hills

In recent years a much higher jump has opened near the town of Kushma, in Parbat district, about two to two and a half hours' drive west of Pokhara. Here the Kali Gandaki River has cut a deep gorge, crossed by several very long, very high pedestrian suspension bridges that are attractions in themselves.

The bungee platform is on a bridge linking the two sides of the gorge. The jump height is advertised at around 228 metres, which operators promote as among the highest commercial bungee jumps in the world.

The experience. The fall is long enough for the ground to appear to rush upwards for what feels like an age. After the rebounds, you are winched back up to the bridge.

Other options. The same site offers a giant swing and a sky cycle or similar aerial rides, and you can simply walk the high bridges for the view if jumping is not for you.

Logistics. Easily done as a day trip from Pokhara by private vehicle or organised transport, or as a stop on the way to the hot springs and trails further up the Kali Gandaki valley.

The tower near Pokhara

For those who want the sensation without a long drive, a purpose-built steel tower stands on a hillside in the Hemja area, about twenty to thirty minutes from Lakeside. The jump is roughly 70 to 80 metres, over an artificial pond, with views of the Annapurna range on clear days.

The experience. Shorter and less intimidating than the gorge jumps, and over quickly. Operators offer the option of dipping your hands or head in the water at the bottom of the fall.

Logistics. A half-day outing from Pokhara, easily combined with other activities such as zip-lining or paragliding.

Which to choose

• Most scenic and atmospheric: the Bhote Koshi gorge, with forest, river and a full day's adventure.

• Highest: Kushma.

• Most convenient: the Pokhara tower.

• If based in Kathmandu: the border gorge.

• If based in Pokhara: Kushma for the big one, Hemja for a quick jump.

Requirements and restrictions

Operators set minimum and maximum body weights and a minimum age, and weigh every jumper. You will be asked to sign a declaration of health. Bungee jumping is not suitable for people who are pregnant or who have heart conditions, high blood pressure, epilepsy, back or neck problems, recent surgery or eye conditions such as detached retina. If in doubt, consult a doctor beforehand.

Do not jump after drinking alcohol.

Safety

The main operators use equipment and procedures in line with international practice, with trained jump masters and regular replacement of cords. Before booking, ask about the staff's certification, how often cords are changed and what backup systems are used. Watch a few jumps first. If anything about the operation seems careless, do not go ahead.

Check that your travel insurance covers bungee jumping. Many policies exclude it unless you add adventure sports cover.