Bungee Jumping in Nepal

What Should You Know Before Taking That Jump

This sport speaks for itself, but I felt it was essential that you know how, where, and who made this extreme sport what it is today.

Who started this sport?

This most unusual extreme sport has two theories as to who and where it began. The most well-known is A.J. Hackett, a New Zealander, as he was the one who made it so famous. However, bungee or bungy dates back far before Hackett.

The legend of its beginning is something of interest and entirely original. It comes from a woman who had been mistreated as a wife by her husband. When she was abused, she would run away or at least make the attempts. But to her dismay, she was caught and punished. So she finally came up with a plan to escape to the tallest banyan trees on the island. Tying a vine around her ankles, she would make her way to the top. Her husband followed to catch her, but she jumped to the ground when she reached the top of the tree, with the vine breaking her fall. After teasing him that he was too big of a coward to jump, he threw himself after her without using the vine, falling to his death.

Banyan Tree in Hawaii

Photograph courtesy of Mongabay and AYC-And Your Creations

The legend has changed over the years, but the islanders have built a tower, jumping from it to prove their bravery. It was to ward off evil spirits to include the husband who fell to his death. The Islanders believe that a successful Yam harvest can only be achieved if this ritual takes place. Out of all the stories and myths I have read, this one sounds the most interesting and dates back so far…however, A. J. Hackett really created a stir being the first diver ins the first bungee jump. The dress code is casual…well, Hackett, indeed, followed the idea, jumping in this birthday suit. Stark naked, he fell 525 feet, setting a new sport to become famous in no  time!

Imagine being the first person to find the courage to plunge headfirst into the unknown from a bridge with nothing but an oversized elastic band strapped to your ankles. That is what occurred in 1979.

 How did Bungee Jumping get started?

In the 1970s, it first appeared in footage and was picked up by the Oxford University Dangerous Sports Club, a group based in Oxford and London. They were the ones who dunned the name bungee when trying to mirror the event of land diving.

Where was the first bungee jump?

The first of such a jump was in Bristol but restricted to only the Oxford Dangerous Sports Club members. Afterward, it became a sport in New Zealand. When A.J. Hackett made it a popular sport, its popularity as a common extreme sport gained notoriety around the world.

Hackett drew further media attention when he managed to illegally bungee jump from the Eiffel Tower! Now, that certainly took confidence. In 1988, Hackett opened the world’s first commercial bungee jump site in Ohakune. A permanent operator was erected at Kawarau Bridge in Queenstown, now known as a hub of extreme sports in New Zealand, attracting over 500,000 visitors annually.

Bungee jumping has captured the imagination of the public. I want to share how it has made Nepal its sought-after location for enjoying this sport.

Are you ready to bungee jump with me?

10…9….8…7…6…5…4…3…2…1…0…BLAST-OFF! TIMBER!

What’s on your mind standing on a cliffside?

You are standing on the cliffside hundreds of feet off the ground with your feet tied together, when a sudden rush of fear, excitement, and panic when you hear the word, JUMP! As you plummet towards the ground, the thoughts fill your head…do these bungee cords hold, or will I bounce back or dive crash? I feel like I will throw up, and my eyes feel pressured. Will they pop out…will my heart stop? WOW…I feel free.

These thoughts and a million others will likely hurriedly run through your mind from both fear and excitement. However, many of these thoughts would be avoided had this bungee jumper been adequately prepared. Let’s begin by explaining to those that do not understand what bungee jumping is. Bungee jumping is when a person’s feet are tied with an elastic cord known as a bungee cord. They jump off, head first with action-filled adrenaline rushing through the body, from a high structure, be it a building, cliffside ledge, bridge, or aircraft. It is one of the most enjoyed extreme sports available, providing you with that rush I spoke about above.

How Do You Prepare for Bungee Jumping?

The preparation is possibly the most uncomplicated sporting adventure of your life to prepare yourself to enjoy. But, of course, if you want to enjoy the best of times, you will make plans for the summer. for the best weather.

What is the Cost to Bungee Jump? 

Except for the cost you pay to the location or business that sells you the adventure, you need to buy nothing. Your cost is dependent on the type of experience you are seeking. The prices can range from $26USD to $225 per person. Suppose you want to combine your adventure with another sport like bungee jumping and swing or canyoning. It’s one price. So, it’s difficult to advise you of the costs. Please contact your travel agent for exact price quotes.

Why is the cord so important?

However, the cord is the most crucial piece of equipment you will be using, so be sure you understand what is utilized to protect your very life. 

Are you urious about what the bungee cord is made of? I want to know what is supporting me for safety. The most straightforward answer is, it’s made from rubber and natural latex!

Are you curious about what the bungee cord is made of? I would want to know what is supporting me for safety, so, the simplest answer is, its made from rubber and natural latex! After 500 to 1,000 jumps, the bungee cords are discarded to protect your safety. Some facilities do add an extra safety feature as the rubber cord to enhance your protection also. Ask!

Who do you need to trust, and Why?

You need to trust the operator and know what to look for before taking that giant leap of faith. The two harness is another vitally important piece of equipment, which will be attached to you.

Keeping you safe is a priority. While you are bungee jumping, a harness is also attached to your ankles and your body. If you decide to travel with your equipment, know that extra costs may added to your final tally.

When is the best time to bungee jump in the Gorge?

In Nepal you can enjoy one of the most exciting sports activities fulfilling the dreams of the adrenaline junkie! September to May is the best time for bungee jumping at the Bhote Koshi Gorge, though you can partake in the activity any time of the year. However, the jump is only operational four days a week…Saturday, Sunday, Wednesday, and Friday between December to January. Also, from September to November, when you can enjoy all the days except Monday. There are only two ways to reach the gorge from Kathmandu. Either by bus or by driving yourself.

Where can you go, in Nepal, for Bungee Jumping?

While visiting Nepal, if you are looking for an extraordinary experience, the country offers many sites for vacationers to enjoy. However, I would recommend that you visit one of the bungee jumping locations for the enormous adrenaline rush. Although Nepal is graced with many places to visit, extreme sports activity is the highest thrill. Unfortunately, there are only two such locations. In Nepal, an over-the-top fun is Bungee Jumping! Both Bhote Koshi Gorge and Hemja, Pokhara. Bhote Koshi Gorge in Nepal was the first location discovered in Nepal and is now one of the world’s most famous areas for bungee jumping. I have provided them for you below in detail.

What Is The Highest Bungee Jump in Nepal? 

Bhote Koshi Gorge

The gorge location is near Nepal and Tibet and is a height of nearly 525 feet. The Gorge is where your greatest thrill is found if looking for the highest location to bungee dump in Nepal!

The gorge is a three-hour drive from Kathmandu, and it lies at an altitude of 3,600 feet from sea level in fabulous surroundings. 

At the Gorge you will be cared for and instructed by the staff. The Gorge hires only the most knowledgeable masters in the business. Packages can be purchased to include a bus ride to the site to cover meals.

As you plummet towards the gorge and its fast-moving river, your thoughts must be whether you will touch bottom or spring back up! As you say your prayers, Hail Mary’s, or whatever belief you follow, rest assured that this has already been safely calculated.

 

Kathmandu is a beautiful, welcoming city and, in many ways, a hidden treasure. You will find your hidden treasures from the bustling street markets to Durbar Square and the temples throughout Kathmandu Valley. Enjoying a bite to eat while soaking in the culture surrounding you. Be sure you don’t miss this city of Kathmandu either before or after your Bungee Jump at the Bhote Koshi Gorge. You will find many travel agents in Kathmandu that will make all of the necessary arrangements for your day trip to bungee jumping. The following is a small sampling of where you can enjoy visiting while setting up your bungee jumping tour at the Bhote Koshi Gorge.

Welcome to Kathmandu-Your Gateway to Bungee Jumping Experiences!

 

 

 

 

 

Hemja, Pokhara-Bungee Jumping

The most crucial thing you should do is be sure you book your jump with a reputable company with appropriate safety and risk management procedures. You do not want to have to concerned about your safety. Participation in this fascinating sport will be one of the most significant memories to share for years to come. Having confidence in yourself is a must, so do not believe in old wives’ tales or myths! The sights of the Himalayas with the awe-inspiring adventure sports will keep you entertained in ways unimaginable. Bungee Jumping in recent years has become one of the most successful extreme adventure sports in Nepal.

How Do You Prepare Yourself for Bungee Jumping?

You want to practice breathing, so when you are excited and screaming during your jump, you remember to breathe! Next, take a mate, a sense of adventure with you, and try to leave your fears behind. Then, after choosing your surroundings carefully, and do your research, read reviews, and speak with city officials, put your trust in the jump-master.

Lastly, be sure to wear sensible clothes and shoes. Closed toe shoes must be worn. While enjoying your life or feeling either fearful and excited, know that the adrenaline rush will likely make you crave this sport again.

What Is The Weight Limit or Body Size Restrictions For Bungee Jumping?

Be brave, but be sure your weight, height, and health are in sync with the rules of the company you hire. After all, once you brave this jump, you will succumb to the addiction to the personal satisfaction and achievement you have done for yourself. The adrenaline rush alone will keep you jumping again and again! The age requirements are that you must be between 13 years of age and up. Children 13 to 15 years old must have a guardian to sign for them. Weight limits are between 77 pounds to 275 pounds.

Hemja, Pokhara, Nepal

Stepping Off

As you ready yourself and gaze at the jump site ahead of you, my advice is not to look down but at the sky. This white-knuckle event of hearing your heartbeats pound inside your ears will undoubtedly push your emotions to new levels! However, looking down will only put you in a state of panic rather than an exuberant state of mind, expecting the thrill of a lifetime.   Besides, you will have plenty of time to view the scenery while screaming in anticipation of what’s to come! 

Suddenly, the whistling sounds of the nearby waterfalls rushing or trickling across the rocks as it falls hundreds of feet soar past you. You begin screaming with excitement as you have never felt before that day! Your thoughts race between was I nuts, and I can’t wait to go again.

Nepal’s rich and extraordinary landscape surrounds you. There are cliffs embedded with deep rocky crevasses carved into their sides, on either side of you. As you descend, will you enjoy the swift-running waterfalls rolling against the rocks, or will your mind be filled with the thought of survival! As you stand prepared to jump, you may be full of excitement or sheer terror, but one of those emotions will have overcome your every reaction. At that precise moment, you must decide if you will be brave enough to have that thrill, boosting you to new heights. Or, will it turn you back, causing your entire experience to become a letdown? It’s all up to you and how you perceive your goals in life. But, I WILL say this: IF you are taking heavy medications, altering your thought process or body reactions, you must NOT go bungee jumping. This risk will become too dangerous to overcome.

Pokhara, Crane Bungee Jump-Night Grace

Photograph from O Segredo E O Sucesso

https://www.osegredoeosucesso.com.br/experiencia-de-esportes-em-pokhara/

This particular location in Pokhara offers you the first and only gravity-defying bungee jump tower in Nepal. You will drop vertically for 246 feet, with three (3) seconds of free fall, encountering a jaw-dropping event. Furthermore, you’ll view the Himalayas’ spectacular views from the jump site itself, soaking in the serenity while being in the home of the Himalayas, with the advantage of a splendid view of the hills and rivers. So, attention, Adrenaline Junkies…this adventure is perfect for you to experience one of the most popular extreme adventure sports around the world! And all situated at a driving distance of only 30 minutes from the Lakeside, Pokhara.

Questions you will be asked before jumping?

While on the topic, here are a few questions you will be asked or what you should know about the risks of bungee jumping if you have these medical issues. If you have a heart condition, epilepsy, high blood pressure, diabetes, neurological disorder, or pregnancy, YOU MUST NOT BUNGEE JUMP! 

For those who do not have a real reason to stop this activity, be sure to smile, laugh, and be happy while looking into the camera capturing your incredible experience! Remember not to stand on the platform too long, looking down. The sooner you jump, the better. If in doubt, do not jump…wait for another time!

Possible Consequences… Don’t fret; you just need to know!

Suppose you are not aware of the injury possibilities. In that case, I will encourage you to have an in-depth conversation with your physicians before taking up this sport to know the risks upfront. The extreme forces that occur to your body are subject to injury, while the jump pulls you back upward by the bungee cord. This action can injure the vertebrae of your spine and the delicate spinal cord that they protect. As a result, injuries such as compression fractures, broken bones, and herniated discs, along with damage to the vertebrae’s spaces, can occur.

Now, I do not want to frighten you for taking chances, but I believe you should always make informed decisions. There’s no sense in making that jump and not knowing possible consequences that can happen. However, there is good news. Injuries of this kind do not occur very often.

While participating in a bungee jump, you may experience a heart rate as high as 160 beats per minute. It may cause burst blood vessels in the eyes, a whiplash, strains, ligament damage, or worst-case scenario; it may be fatal. Therefore, I decided to check the resources I use regarding the fatality rates for bungee jumping for your comfort. You will be relieved. Here is what I learned: Bungee jumping is very similar, with very few bungee jumping deaths per year; in fact, the National Center for Health Statistics shows the same fatality rate among bungee jumpers as skydivers, at 1 in 500,000. Hopefully, these statistics will help you make your decision without fear of being so great! @skydivecarolina.com.

If you want to take the chances to experience, possibly the best time of your life, then you should decide for yourself if these risks are worth it. Life has no guarantees, so this is your choice, but remember, we cannot live in cocoons. 

Once you have the facts, bungee jumping seems crazy, but to me, it seems that taking that leap of faith would change your life forever! If you can do this jump, nothing else would ever be as complicated, by comparison! As a result, your outlook on life could be completely different.

While you may feel you can spend the day bungee jumping, I would encourage you to visit the temples, the city center, and the many sites worth your time. This city was founded in the 17th century. It is on the Phewa Lake, in central Nepal, with a population of 402,000. Legend has it known as the gateway to the Annapuma Circuit, a popular trek in the Himalayas. Motor transportation is used, but it depends on where it is, which will determine the route. So that range could be from 100 to 145 miles, depending on the trek you are taking and where it ends. Two sites are enjoyed with this trek. It crosses two river valleys and includes skirting the Annapurna Massif.

There are seven lakes in Pokhara, and recreation includes boating and fishing. However, Phewa Lake also has an unusual attraction, which draws visitors every year.

Barahi Bhagwati Temple

Bijay chaurasia / CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)

Another main attraction of Phewa Lake, built in 1925, is the two-storied temple known as Barahi Bhagwati Temple. It is situated in the middle of the lake, like an island, and attracts thousands of visitors. 

The deity goddess to this temple is Bhagwati, and a major attraction for the Nepali people. Visitors are known to tour this temple during Bada Dashain, which is the largest festival.

This area has many sites to visit, charming lodging at prices for every budget, and exquisite cuisine. So be sure you take the time to visit this lovely area.

FYI: Just a fun, informational fact. I decided to research how long a fall actually takes.

This was the answer I could find. The jump is the size of two-and-a-half football fields. Jumpers realize a speed of greater than 124 (220 kilometers) miles per hour. It’s a 4 to 5-second free-fall that then stretches the bungee cord 164.04 feet (50 meters)

Is Bungee Jumping in Nepal Safe?

According to the General Manager, Mr. Bhuwan, of the Last Resort (Kathmandu area), there have been no accidents or near misses.

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Welcome to Nepal