Pokhara, October 26

Pokhara, a place famous as a city of beautiful lakes among tourists, is gradually gaining popularity as an attractive adventure sports destination.

“As Pokhara and surrounding areas have over one-and-a-half dozen facilities related to adventure sports, it’s natural for the tourists to be attracted to this place,” said Nepal Air Sports Association former chairperson and entrepreneur Rajesh Bomjan.

Paragliding, ultralight, bungee jumping, rafting, zip line, honey hunting are a few exciting activities that tourists can enjoy in the city. Besides, the Lake City is also known for beautiful lakes, mountains and as the gateway to the world-famous Annapurna region.

American national Polly Hudson, 70, on her 12th visit to Nepal said that described zipline tour as her most exciting experience. “It was really exciting to cover a distance of 1,800 metres from Sarankot to Hemja in just one-and-a-half minutes,” she said.

Not only this, ultralight is another attraction that has gained popularity among tourists. Similarly, canyoning had added yet another attraction. “The game developed in Ghalel village in Lwanghalel is also attracting tourists these days,” said Ram Gurung, a canyoning operator. Likewise, rafting and paragliding are also other notable games available in Pokhara.

Pokhara has been recognised as one of the five best destinations for paragliding in the world.

Besides, it is said that the tourists can enjoy the sports at a cheaper rate in Pokhara. “Paragliding is one of the games I love,” said Sami Findikli of Turkey, adding, “Besides; it is cheaper here than in Europe and the US.”

Around 700,000 tourists come to visit Pokhara every year, about half of them foreigners.

But Pokhara Tourism Revival Committee coordinator Ganesh Bahadur Bhattarai rued the current setback the industry is facing due to prolonged bandh and blockade and resulting fuel crisis.