Get ready for truly adrenaline-pumping experiences!

KATHMANDU, JUNE 10: Kathmandu residents, alongside a growing number of adventure enthusiasts, are increasingly seeking out thrilling experiences like ziplining, rock climbing, and bungee jumping. Previously, these activities often required travelling outside the valley. However, with the opening of Ban Jungle Adventure, located just 10 kilometres from the Ring Road's Bypass on the Kakani Highway (in Tarkeshwor Municipality-3), these exciting opportunities are now much more accessible.

This 30-ropani (approximately 3.7 acres) adventure park offers more than just adrenaline-pumping activities; it also provides a refreshing escape into nature, allowing visitors to enjoy the lush green environment and breathe clean air.

A hub for adventure and nature

According to Alisha Dhakal, operator of Ban Jungle Adventure, the park has been serving both domestic and international tourists for the past eight months, bringing them closer to nature right within Kathmandu. The venture was established to spark interest in nature and adventure tourism among Kathmandu residents, a goal that seems to be succeeding as more people opt for their adventure packages.

Dhakal highlights that the park's convenient location saves Kathmandu residents' travel time while offering a unique adventure experience within a jungle setting. Visitors can enjoy a wide array of activities, including ziplining, a roller coaster, a climbing wall, an obstacle course, a high rope course, a kids' adventure course, a zipline treetop adventure, and a giant swing.

Notably, Ban Jungle Adventure boasts Nepal's first-ever roller coaster experience for adventure tourism, where riders are secured in a wheeled seat on an iron track for a minute-long thrilling spin.

Beyond thrills: An immersive cultural and educational experience

Ban Jungle Adventure isn't just for day trips; guests can also choose to spend the night in one of 11 tents or a traditional Nepali house, offering a distinct cultural experience. These accommodations are perfect for those who want to enjoy bonfires and other entertainment amidst the jungle's tranquillity.

Dhakal emphasizes the unique value of the traditional Nepali house, especially for city dwellers who may not have seen such village-style homes. This feature aims to preserve and showcase Nepal's fading authenticity. Inside the traditional house, visitors can explore authentic tools like a dhiki (pounding tool), jaato (grinding stone),  halo (plough), and other farming equipment.

The park also features sheds and enclosures for both large and small animals, mimicking traditional village setups. Dhakal explains that these elements are particularly aimed at the younger generation and children, ensuring visitors not only have fun but also gain knowledge and insights into traditional Nepali life.

Targeting diverse visitors and future plans

Ban Jangal Adventure attracts a diverse crowd, including school students, families, and organizational groups, in addition to both Kathmandu residents and international tourists. Weekends, particularly Fridays and Saturdays, see a large influx of domestic tourists.

The months of Mangsir and Poush (mid-November to mid-December and mid-December to mid-January) are especially popular due to school holidays and favorable picnic weather. Dhakal explains that the jungle-adjacent location was chosen to cater to the increasing number of people seeking to escape the city's noise and enjoy hiking.

Visitors have ample options for exploration, including 365 days of cycling and walking trails. The development of the park's physical infrastructure, which took a year to complete with the help of the Indian company Axo Consultancy, is fully engineered and robust.

With an investment of 60 million Nepali Rupees on private land, Van Jangal Adventure prioritizes adventure tourism. Dhakal confirms they have obtained all necessary permits from the Department of Tourism to operate their games, and importantly, every participant in adventurous games is insured.

Looking ahead, Dhakal shared, "We plan to gradually add new games. For now, we'll focus on providing entertainment with the existing games at Van Jangal Adventure, gauge their impact, and then proceed accordingly." This forward-thinking approach is expected to help Ban Jungle Adventure continue to be a dynamic and exciting destination for adventure enthusiasts near Kathmandu.