The geography of Nepal allows swift rise and fall in altitude in a short distance. These exciting altitudinal changes are the reason for the natural diversity in Nepal. It is also why Nepal hosts a myriad of adventure sports, including the adventurous rock-climbing endeavor. There are countless sites where you can look for an unforgettable rock-climbing experience in Nepal.
Who Can Join
Rock climbing experiences in Nepal are not limited to experts only but can be enjoyed by novice learners. Countless climbing spots of a low, medium, and great difficulty are available in Nepal, suitable for all no matter where they are in levels of experience. However, knowledge of the rock-climbing technique is a must, along with some training and a fit body while tackling the steep rocky ridges of Nepal.
Popular Rock Climbing in Nepal
The most popular rock-climbing sites in Nepal are around Kathmandu valley. Due to the short distance for travel, these sites are easily accessible and also cheaper. Balaju, Hattiban, Thame, Kakani are some of the best climbing sites around Kathmandu. Most of these sites reside in the serene forests of Nagarjun, which is a famous religious site in Nepal.
The name Nagarjun comes after the Buddhist philosopher Nagarjuna who is said to have meditated in these forests. Rock climbing in the Nagarjun forest is, thus, a spiritual experience. As your adrenaline level becomes normal after a difficult climb, you are then greeted with an air of peace and tranquility that surrounds the Nagarjun forest and a breathtaking view of the Kathmandu valet from above.
The Balaju and Hattiban rock-climbing sites fall inside the Nagarjun forests. The Balaju climbing site can be reached with a 30-hour drive from Thamel and is equipped with more than 22 climbing routes. These routes range from grade 4a to 7b+ in terms of difficulty. The rock-climbing site in Hattiban is an hour’s drive from Kathmandu, along with a 20 minutes hike to reach the climbing spot. Hattiban contains more than ten rock-climbing routes, which are graded 6a to 7a in terms of difficulty.
Kakani is on the top of the tier list as the most popular rock-climbing destination of Nepal. It is one and a half-hour drive from Kathmandu. Kakani contains only one large boulder for rock-climbing, which is of 7a grade with six routes. What makes Kakani a popular rock-climbing spot is the stunning picturesque view of mountain ranges, which can be enjoyed from the top of the hill, including Ganesh Himal, Hiuchuli, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri; Gaurishankar Himal, and so on. There is also a mountaineering park nearby with an outdoor climbing wall which you can enjoy.
Bimal Nagar is another one of the places popular for rock climbing. It is 5 hours drive away from Kathmandu and contains a 55-meter rock face with four pitches.
When to do it
Most of the rock climbing trips in Nepal are one-day trips. So, the price of rock climbing is comparatively lower than anywhere else in the world. A session’s cost is about $100 to $200 if you already have the necessary equipment. You might have to spend a bit more if you do not have the equipment which you can then rent at a low price.
Rock climbing in Nepal can be enjoyed at any time except for the monsoon and winter season because of the slippery rocks and chilly weather. The best time would be between October to late November and March to May.
Conclusion
Rock climbing in Nepal is an eye-opening experience. The climb’s strain is perfectly countered by the spectacular view of mountain ranges, making it a memory that will last for a lifetime.
