Packages - Page 7 of 7 - France-Nepal-Voyage

Zip/bungee

Tyrolean traverse – Bungee jumping:

Adrenaline junkies come to Nepal for the breathtaking experience of bungee jumping or zip-lining, and jumping from a suspension bridge over a river gorge or crossing it acrobatics at the end of a rope.

If you’re brave enough, it’s the ultimate experience that few other activities can match and one that will stay with you forever.

The bungee jumping experience can be enjoyed either on the Arniko Highway or in the fascinating town of Pokhara. The bungee jumping there has been designed by one of New Zealand’s leading bungee jumping consultants and is run by some of the most experienced jump masters in the business.

It can be done from a 166m steel suspension bridge that connects both sides of a deep valley above the raging Bhote Koshi River. The site offers spectacular scenery with dense forests covering the cliff top.

Each person is weighed before the jump so that different ropes can be used for different weight categories. Green, red and black ropes are used for the lightest, heaviest and strongest respectively.

The adrenalin starts to build during the jump.

At 600 m above the ground, peaking at 140 km/h over a distance of 1.8 km, take to the skies on the world’s longest and highest zip line.

Nepal is home to the Extreme Slide, the first of its kind in Asia. This is no ordinary zip line, but the longest, steepest and fastest in the world, for the ultimate adventure.

People suffering from heart disease, epilepsy, high blood pressure, pregnancy or orthopaedic problems are not allowed to bungee jump.

You can stay overnight and go rafting, canyoning and climbing.

Paragliding

Paragliding in Pokara

Paragliding in Pokara is the experience of a lifetime: nothing beats the thrill of being in the air, flying like a bird in thermal currents and admiring snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes and lush green valleys like nowhere else on earth.

With experienced pilots to guide you through the skies.

You may be able to fly again one day, but you’ll never see the same spectacular views. You can choose from tandem flights, fully certified paragliding courses, solo flights or even paragliding with falcons!

Paragliding has been popular in Nepal since 1995, and the sport continues to grow in popularity. You can sign up as a beginner and leave with many hours of flying under your belt. Flying with the falcons and admiring the incredible views of the Himalayan peaks from this vantage point is an experience you’ll never forget.

You can fly with world-class pilots, solo or tandem, and benefit from local knowledge when you go cross-country or acro. You can even get your international licence in Nepal.

If you don’t have your own equipment or don’t want to take it with you, you can hire it in Nepal if you want to fly on your own.

Because of the risks involved in flying too close to the flight paths of national airlines, you are not allowed to take off as a private pilot – see more insurance information HERE-. It is therefore important that you familiarise yourself with Nepal’s rules and regulations on flying.

With its low valleys and high, cold mountains, Nepal offers some of the best paragliding in the world thanks to its natural thermal updrafts.

Nepal, Kingdom of Himalaya

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Nepal, the enchanting “Kingdom of the Himalayas,” and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of this Himalayan nation. Nestled between the majestic peaks of the Himalayas, Nepal offers a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural richness, and spiritual serenity.

Your trip begins in Kathmandu, the vibrant capital city of Nepal. Explore the bustling streets, visit ancient temples, and soak in the rich history and architecture of UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple. Immerse yourself in the bustling markets, where vibrant colors, aromatic spices, and intricate handicrafts create a captivating sensory experience.

From Kathmandu, venture into the pristine wilderness of the Himalayas. Nepal is home to eight of the world’s ten highest peaks, including Mount Everest, and offers a plethora of trekking and mountaineering opportunities. Lace up your boots and embark on a trek of a lifetime, whether it’s the iconic Everest Base Camp trek, the picturesque Annapurna Circuit, or the serene Langtang Valley trek. Traverse through breathtaking landscapes, including lush forests, terraced fields, glacial rivers, and picturesque mountain villages, as you challenge yourself and witness the grandeur of the Himalayas up close.

While the Himalayas take center stage, Nepal is not just about mountains. Experience the tranquility of Pokhara, a picturesque city nestled beside Phewa Lake, surrounded by the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Take a boat ride on the lake, hike to the World Peace Pagoda for panoramic views, or simply relax and rejuvenate amidst the serene natural surroundings.

Discover Nepal’s cultural heritage in the historic cities of Patan and Bhaktapur, renowned for their ancient palaces, intricate architecture, and beautifully preserved traditional Newari culture. Explore the narrow streets, visit art galleries, and witness local artisans creating exquisite woodcarvings, metalwork, and pottery.

For a spiritual experience, venture to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Explore the sacred site, visit monasteries, and find solace in the peaceful ambiance. Engage in meditation or participate in a Buddhist teaching session to deepen your spiritual connection.

Nepalese cuisine is a treat for food enthusiasts. Sample authentic Nepali dishes such as dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), and various traditional curries. Savor the flavors and spices that are unique to the region and experience the warmth of Nepalese hospitality.

Your journey through Nepal is not only about exploration and adventure but also about making a positive impact. Engage in sustainable tourism practices, support local communities, and contribute to conservation efforts. Visit community-based projects, interact with local artisans, and choose eco-friendly accommodations to ensure a responsible and meaningful trip.

As you bid farewell to Nepal, you’ll carry the memories of its breathtaking landscapes, the hospitality of its people, and the spiritual essence that permeates the air. Nepal, the Kingdom of the Himalayas, offers an experience that goes beyond words—a journey that touches your soul and leaves you forever captivated by its beauty and charm.

Cheese & Wine Tour

Indulge in a delightful Cheese & Wine Tour in Nepal, where you can savor the perfect combination of delectable cheeses and exquisite wines while immersing yourself in the country’s unique culinary culture. Despite being lesser-known on the global wine and cheese scene, Nepal has its own hidden gems to offer, providing a delightful experience for food and wine enthusiasts.

Your cheese and wine journey begins in the Kathmandu Valley, where you’ll visit local cheese factories and witness the artisanal process of cheese-making. From traditional yak cheese to varieties made from cow and goat milk, Nepal boasts a diverse range of cheeses with distinct flavors and textures. Engage with experienced cheesemakers, learn about their techniques and traditions, and even participate in hands-on cheese-making workshops to deepen your understanding of the craft.

After exploring the cheese-making process, it’s time to pair these delicious cheeses with fine wines. Nepal has a nascent but thriving wine industry, producing wines from local grape varieties that have adapted to the unique terroir of the region. Visit vineyards and wineries located in the scenic hills of Nepal, where you can taste a range of red, white, and rosé wines produced with passion and precision. Learn about the grape-growing process, the art of winemaking, and the distinctive characteristics of Nepali wines.

As you indulge in the cheese and wine tastings, you’ll also have the opportunity to appreciate the stunning landscapes that surround the vineyards and cheese factories. The rolling hills, terraced fields, and picturesque valleys create a picturesque backdrop for your culinary adventure, offering a feast for the eyes as well.

To further enhance your Cheese & Wine Tour, consider pairing your tastings with local Nepali cuisine. Nepali dishes, such as momo (dumplings), gundruk (fermented leafy greens), and dhindo (traditional cornmeal), can beautifully complement the flavors of the cheeses and wines, creating a harmonious gastronomic experience.

Additionally, the tour can be combined with visits to cultural and historical landmarks in the Kathmandu Valley. Explore ancient temples, palaces, and traditional Newari architecture while immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Nepal. You can also participate in cooking classes where you’ll learn to prepare Nepali dishes using local ingredients, including cheese, and discover the nuances of Nepali flavors.

Throughout the tour, you’ll be accompanied by knowledgeable guides who will provide insights into the history, culture, and culinary traditions of Nepal. They can offer recommendations on the best cheese and wine pairings, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience.

A Cheese & Wine Tour in Nepal offers a unique opportunity to explore the country’s lesser-known culinary treasures, combining flavors, traditions, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a cheese connoisseur, a wine enthusiast, or simply a lover of good food, this tour promises a delightful and immersive experience that will leave a lasting impression. So, come and embark on a cheese and wine adventure in Nepal, where taste buds are awakened and memories are created.

Discover Tea & Coffee

*This adventure will take you straight to the tea plantations of Nepal, with depending on the season, during the tea harvest!

*Even though Nepal only ranks 20th in the world for tea producers, its historic relationship with Darjeling tea has made it a staple for over a century and a half.

*You will visit the famous large plantations of Ilam tea production but also small producers with more conventional and ecological cultivation methods.

*Privileged tastings await you on site with unpublished vintages but also in Kathmandu, in other places steeped in history, in the company of great tea tasters.

*This stay will awaken all your taste buds but will also be an opportunity for a cultural tour essential to a good local immersion.

*The Nepal tea harvests extend from the end of March to November.

*They are divided into 4 periods with sometimes a winter harvest depending on the mildness of the weather.

* First Flush: March – April

* Second Flush: May-June

* Monsoon Flush: July – August

Makalu Base Camp 1 (MBC)

Mount Makalu is the fifth highest mountain in the world (8,481 m) and the trek to its base camp 1 is a less-frequented route due to its relative inaccessibility.

This is a high-altitude trek, but it begins with the lower landscapes of lush rhododendron forests, (rhododendron tea -ICI-) picturesque Gurung villages, river valleys and Makalu Barun National Park.

The higher altitudes offer breathtaking panoramas of the Himalayas and its high altitude lakes –extra trip HERE-, and the passes to be crossed to reach the refuge, a rocky base camp.

This is a long, varied and fairly strenuous trek, suited to those who enjoy hiking and nature lovers and who prefer to be in tranquil, unspoilt countryside rather than following the crowds.

You’ll pass steep granite cliffs, glaciers and spectacular waterfalls.

Makalu base camp is located at an altitude of 5,100 metres. The long hike through the ever-increasing altitude is therefore an excellent way to acclimatise slowly.

From the base camp, you can see the Barun glacier, the south face of Makalu (8,481 m) and a complete panorama of Everest and Lhotse. Time will be given to hikers to explore the lakes and glaciers around the base camp before descending from this icy, rocky land into the green forests and valleys.

Lower Dolpo

Lower Dolpo, Lake Phoksundo: the shining light

Get away from the big routes like Annapurna, Everest or Langtang and discover new, even more incredible places: your trek in the dazzling Lower Dolpo will be a new experience for you!

The Lower Dolpo trek is a lesser-known itinerary in Nepal, as access is more remote and restricted, and requires a special permit.

But the adventure and thrill of walking off the beaten track is quite extreme on this trip. The Lower Dolpo trekking routes were only opened to foreigners in 1982.

Dolpo lies in the western hills of Nepal in Karnali Pradesh. It is one of Nepal’s seventy-seven districts. It is the largest district in the country, covering an area of 7889 km.

This district is the most remote region popular for hosting the Shey Phoksundo National Park. The name of this park is derived from the Shey monastery and Lake Phoksundo (3612 m ) which are located there.

The majority of people living in this area belong to the Chettri community. The other communities you will meet are the Gurung, Sherpa and Magar. Most of the people here are followers of the Hindu and Buddhist religions.

Shey Phoksundo National Park is the largest trans-Himalayan national park. It was built in 1984 to protect the endangered wildlife that lives here such as the snow leopard, musk deer, Tibetan wolf and many others.

You’ll find that these areas are still underdeveloped, but the friendly nature and warm hospitality will mesmerise you.

Upper Dolpo

Upper Dolpo: Awe-Inspiring

Explore the mysterious land of Inner High Dolpo, with Tibetan Buddhism and Bonpo culture intact. Wander through the desolate landscapes of the Trans-Himalayan mountains.

Admire the unique beauty of the sacred Phoksundo Lake, with its enchanting hues of emerald and blue, situated in the natural park of the same name.

Trekking through the jungle of Upper Dolpo and Shey Gompa transports you to another world where centuries-old Buddhist and Bonpo customs, as well as shamanic influences, remain an essential part of daily life. The villages, Gompas and people you meet along the way will have a significant impact on you.

You’ll need to be prepared, as you’ll have to stay at an altitude of over 4,000 metres for quite a long time on extremely cold nights. But the unforgettable images, the views from the passes and the exposure to a particularly extraordinary and unspoilt society are well worth it.

The ascent of Upper Dolpo and Shey Gompa is an unforgettable but demanding journey, as you will have to cross three high passes: Nagdalo La, Shey La and Jeng La –extra trip HERE-. These passes are often covered in snow and are also known to be the most difficult part of the trek. From the top of the pass, you can see the rolling mountains that follow Tibet.

Shey Gompa will be the main destination, often referred to as the heart of Upper Dolpo. It is an enchanting place, situated at the foot of Crystal Mountain.

You can descend to the Phoksindhu River and follow the waterfall path to Lake Phoksindhu.
You’ll be in awe of Nepal’s highest waterfall, Phoksundo Falls, 167 metres high.

At the high point of Trekking Haut Dolpo and Shey Gompa, you’ll be able to sleep in authentic Buddhist villages and camp in wonderful spots among the snow-capped mountains. Meet the villagers, direct descendants of the Tibetans.