Daphne KookBungee jumping may seem like an extreme sport for many, and one that is meant for daredevils, thrill-seekers and the adventurous. Interestingly, this activity was once a traditional ritual for men to demonstrate their courage to women in a village off Pentecost Island. You might also be surprised that on this island, a woman started the bungee jumping custom – in her attempt to escape from her abusive husband, she tied vines on her legs and leapt off a tree. He jumped after her and died, while she survived the jump. Well, this is the story according to legend.
History aside, bungee jump sites have been creeping up around the globe and if you want a taste of it but can’t wait for Singapore’s very first bungee tower at the year’s end, fret not. Here are other alternative bungee attractions in the Asian region to satisfy that risk-taker in you!
1. Macau Tower
Image credit: Toby Oxborrow
Image credit: AJ Hackett
At 233m high, the AJ Hackett Bungee Jump situated at Macau Tower – one of the world’s tallest freestanding structures today – offers an unparalleled view of the city. It boasts avant-garde cord design, cables, and equipment, offering jumpers an exhilarating freefall experience of their lifetime regardless of weather conditions. Operating both day and night, the jump at Macau Tower is priced at HK$3288 (US$433) and will surely uplift your stay in Macau.
Also read: How I Survived the World’s Highest Bungee Jump at Macau Tower
2. Thailand’s Pattaya Bungee
Image credit: Syn
Heading to Thailand’s Pattaya for a short escapade? Beyond its gorgeous beaches and bustling markets, there is more to this tranquil island, especially for bold travellers. At 60m, the Pattaya Bungee Jump is a fitting orientation for any beginners to the extreme activity. Its height is uncomparable to its Macau counterpart, but the jump will be exhilarating nonetheless. After the plunge, you can even head to the popular Thepprasit Road Night Market nearby for some local delights.
3. Malaysia’s Sunway Extreme Park
Image credit: Denny Sytangco Photography
Image credit: Sunway Lagoon
For some adventurous family fun, head to Malaysia’s Bandar Sunway Extreme Park. Reasonably priced at RM138 (US$34), this bungee jump stands at just 22m and is the only bungee jumping site in the country. It is a short plunge compared to the rest on this list, but serves as a great start for all you thrill-seeking beginners who want the leap of faith into the world of bungee jumping! Other fun activities you can try in this amusement park include flying fox, go-kart and the G-Force X.
4. Korea’s Gapyeong Top Land
Image credit: 2nd Infantry Division US Army
Gapyeong, a small town near Seoul, boasts not only an abundance of picturesque landscapes and famous drama scenes from Winter Sonata and Secret Garden, but it is also a place that grants you a thrilling bungee plunge and a myriad of water sports activities. Overlooking the gorgeous Bukhan River, the crane-structured bungee jump platform at Gapyeong Top Land stands at 55m and promises visitors an invigorating experience away from the hustle and bustle of city life. To get there, take the subway to Gapyeong station and board bus 33-5 to Nami Island Jongjeom bus stop. The bungee jump crane can be easily spotted from here.
5. Nepal’s The Last Resort
Image credit: Steve Hicks
Looking for an intermediate-level bungee plunge? Then be sure to check out The Last Resort over in Nepal. Featuring a bungee platform 160m above the wild Bhote Kosi River, a site popular for river rafting, and nestled amongst Kathmandu’s pristine forest, the jump will surely be a memorable and breathtaking feat for all. Definitely a resort that will not be your last.
Also read: “Exotic Travel” Does Not Mean “Dangerous Travel”
6. China’s Shidu Nature Park
Image credit: Maham Suhail
If the lush landscape of The Last Resort does not impress you enough, perhaps the one at Beijing’s Shidu Nature Park would. This nature park comprises ten river bends (hence its name “Shi”, which means “ten” in Chinese) and features plentiful limestone karst formations and cultural relics. Inside the park, the Shidu Juma Happy Garden offers visitors a plethora of activities, including a 55m high bungee jump site that only costs RMB200 (US$30). With its location strategically set against one of China’s picture-perfect backdrops, the view from the top will definitely be a feast for the eyes.
