KATHMANDU, JULY 3
The government of Nepal has officially enforced the Adventure Sport Bungee Operation Standards, 2078 to regulate and enhance safety in bungee jumping activities across the country. Issued under the Tourism Act, 2035 and Tourism Industry Service Delivery Directives, 2070, the standards are applicable nationwide and were announced by the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation.
According to the MoCTCA, the standards seek to systematize the increasingly popular adventure sport, enhance safety protocols, and define operational requirements for bungee operators.Key Provisions
Licensing and Operation
To operate a bungee business, applicants must submit a detailed proposal to the Department of Tourism, including environmental assessments, company registration documents, and action plans. Operators must have a minimum 20 km distance between sites and use internationally certified equipment. A 5-year license must be renewed with an Rs 10 lakh bank guarantee.
Pricing and Regulation
Bungee operators are required to cap the price at Rs 6,000 per jump, with discounted rates for multiple jumps on the same day. Operators must issue Inland Revenue-certified receipts for all payments.
Safety Standards
Safety is central to the new guidelines. Operators must:
- Employ licensed jump masters with five years of experience
- Provide standard safety equipment including harnesses, helmets, and cords
- Replace cords after 500–700 jumps or within 6 months
- Restrict participation to individuals aged 16–70 weighing 40–130 kg
- Prohibit jumping during poor weather or under intoxication
- Offer insurance coverage for both employees and participants
Bungee jumps must be conducted from high, approved structures such as bridges or cranes. All equipment must meet international safety certifications and be stored in temperature-controlled environments to maintain quality.
Regulatory Oversight
A multi-agency Monitoring and Recommendation Committee will oversee license applications, environmental assessments, and site approvals. Operators failing to meet the prescribed standards may face license cancellation.
Health Restrictions
Participants with conditions such as heart disease, epilepsy, asthma, high blood pressure, or those who have undergone recent surgery, are pregnant, or have artificial limbs, are prohibited from jumping. Health declarations and emergency contact information are mandatory prior to the jump.
Amendment and Oversight
The Department of Tourism holds the authority to interpret, amend, and revise the standards as necessary, the guidelines states.
