Kathmandu: The lakeside city of Pokhara is witnessing a significant surge in adventure tourism, with Indian tourists emerging as the primary demographic for bungee jumping.
According to data from Bungee Nepal Adventures Pvt. Ltd., located in Ratopaihra, Pokhara-17, Indian visitors now constitute the largest share of thrill-seekers. In the single month of Jestha (mid-May to mid-June), the facility recorded 500 jumpers, half of whom were Indian nationals. This high volume of activity enabled the company to generate over Rs 3.75 million in revenue in just one month.
Company Chairman Durga Datta Kharel noted a remarkable increase in participants during the months of Baishakh, Jestha, and Ashar compared to previous years. This growth is largely attributed to improved road and air connectivity between Nepal and India, making Pokhara more accessible to its southern neighbour.
Increasingly, groups of young Indian travellers are making the trek to Pokhara specifically for these high-adrenaline activities. Additionally, the facility has seen an uptick in young Nepalese citizens who live abroad for work or education and choose to experience Pokhara’s adventure sports while home on vacation.
Operating for six years, Bungee Nepal has facilitated more than 15,000 jumps to date. The company charges Rs 7,500 per person, a fee that includes the jump along with a souvenir photo, video, and a branded t-shirt. The jump features a 101-meter plunge, set against a stunning natural backdrop that jumpers describe as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The experience is heightened by the panoramic views of the Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna mountain ranges on one side, and the deep Seti River gorge and lush greenery on the other.
The venture was established through a joint investment of Rs 82.5 million by 11 young local entrepreneurs, including founding chairman Santosh Bhattarai. The structure features a 35-meter-high tower designed as a cantilever bridge, with a 55-meter-long platform extending over the gorge. Beyond providing thrills, the business has significantly boosted the local economy by creating 20 direct jobs and stimulating demand for nearby hotels, restaurants, and transportation services. The company also contributes between Rs 200,000 and 250,000 annually to the government in tax revenue.
Mani Raj Lamichhane, the Gandaki Province Head of the Nepal Tourism Board, highlighted that bungee jumping is becoming a cornerstone of Pokhara’s tourism portfolio, alongside paragliding, ziplining, ultralight flights, and hot air ballooning. These activities are vital for earning foreign currency, creating local employment, and branding Pokhara as an international adventure hub.
Tourism experts believe that through continued collaboration between the government, the private sector, and the local community, Pokhara can further elevate its status on the global stage as a premier destination for adventure sports. While many visitors can enjoy a jump in a single day, the attraction is increasingly encouraging internal tourists to extend their stay in the city. Currently, adventure seekers in the Gandaki region can find bungee facilities in Kushma, Hemja, and Ratopaihra.
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