Nepal’s adventure tourism sector has seen remarkable growth since the introduction of hot air ballooning in 2000, inspired by Chris Dewchrist’s historic 1991 Everest flight for National Geographic. This eco-friendly sport offers an unparalleled perspective of the country’s stunning landscapes, with its commercial launch occurring in Bhaktapur’s Thimi area.
Although urbanization led to the cessation of operations in the Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara revived this thrilling experience in 2018, attracting adventure seekers eager to witness the majestic terrain from the sky.
Flying at altitudes of around 3,000 meters, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of Nepal’s iconic features, including terracotta rooftops, ornate temples, sacred stupas, and lush terraced fields. The true highlight of these flights is the stunning Himalayan vistas.
From the wicker basket of the balloon, passengers can gaze upon the highest peaks in the world, including Gosainthan, Cho-Oyu, and the crown jewel, Mount Everest, as well as the Annapurna range, which provides a dramatic backdrop for flights in Pokhara.
The recently held International Aerostat Festival in Pokhara showcased the city’s emergence as a premier airship destination, drawing pilots and enthusiasts from around the globe. This vibrant event transformed the skies into a kaleidoscope of colorful sky voyaging, highlighting Nepal’s growing expertise in high-altitude aerostat adventures. The flights, typically lasting one hour, are conducted by internationally certified pilots using sophisticated weather monitoring systems, ensuring safety and an unforgettable experience.
Premium packages further enrich the adventure, offering extended flight times and celebratory champagne breakfasts upon landing. As Nepal’s sky cruising industry expands, with plans to reach scenic locations like Chitwan, it continues to blend innovation with tradition, adding a fresh perspective to the country’s rich tourism landscape.
