cool places to visit in nepal

15 of the best things to do in Nepal: experience the Himalaya

Jan 6, 2022 • 8 min read

From trekking through the Himalaya to sampling the very best local cuisine, here are the top experiences in Nepal © Bartosz Hadyniak / Getty Images

From trekking in the Himalayas and exploring historic cities to wildlife safaris and high-adrenaline rafting, kayaking and mountain biking, Nepal offers an incredible range of experiences, activities and adventures.

With so many options, it can be tough to know where to start. Whether you’re a first-timer or a repeat visitor, there’s always more to see – here’s our guide to some of the best things to do in Nepal.

Trek through the Himalayas

Nepal is synonymous with trekking : trips are easy and inexpensive to organize and there is a mind-boggling range of trails, from easy self-guided day hikes to epic multi-week expeditions. They provide both dramatic Himalayan scenery – Nepal boasts eight of the 10 tallest mountains on Earth – and a fascinating insight into the diverse cultures of the highlands.

The most popular treks are the Annapurna Sanctuary, Everest Base Camp , and Langtang Valley routes, but there are lots of other less-well-trodden options, too.

Sample Newari cuisine in Kathmandu

As befits one of Asia’s leading backpacker hubs, the Nepali capital, Kathmandu , has an impressive variety of street food vendors, cafes, bakeries, restaurants, bars, and pubs serving food from across the globe, as well as local standards such as daal bhaat tarkari (dal, rice, and vegetable curry) and momos (steamed or fried dumplings).

But don’t leave without trying the traditional Newari cuisine of the Kathmandu Valley . Although most Nepalis are vegetarian, meat – including buffalo, goat, and wild boar – features strongly in many Newari dishes. Try choila (spicy grilled buffalo strips) and baji (beaten rice, with a similar texture to rolled oats).

Admire the Janaki Mandir

The Terai city of Janakpur – a major pilgrimage destination thanks to its association with Hindu epic the Ramayama – is home to one of the most eye-catching temples in Nepal. Built in the baroque Mughal style and boasting a wealth of domes, turrets and arches, the marble Janaki Mandir is dedicated to the goddess Sita, who is believed to have been found as an infant on the site.

The best time to visit is in the early evening when the temple is illuminated with lights and hymns drift gently through the air.

Spot one-horned rhinos in the Terai

By the early 20th century, the greater one-horned rhino had been hunted to the verge of extinction in the Indian subcontinent, but dedicated conservation efforts have since helped the species to recover.

These majestic creatures can now be spotted in the forests, marshes, and grasslands of Chitwan and Bardia national parks in the Terai – a stretch of lowlands running the length of southern Nepal – alongside tigers, wild elephants, gharial crocodiles, and hundreds of species of birds.

Climb up to Swayambhunath

High on a hilltop in the west of Kathmandu, Swayambhunath is a glorious Buddhist stupa, a dome-shaped monument featuring the painted eyes of the Buddha, topped with a gilded spire and surrounded by a complex of temples, shrines, rest houses, and statuary.

In the morning and evening, devotees climb a long stone stairway to the lofty site to make a kora (ritual circumnavigation) of the huge stupa, which is thought to date back some 2000 years. With commanding views across the city and beyond, it is a wonderful spot to enjoy the sunset.

Go mountain biking

An extensive network of back roads, tracks, and trails – some of which have been used for centuries – allow mountain bikers to reach little-visited parts of Nepal. Although you can strike out independently – rental bikes are widely available in the major tourist centers – many routes are unmapped and best explored on a guided tour, particularly if you’re an inexperienced cyclist.

The two-day Scar Road from Kathmandu, six-day Muktinath to Pokhara , and 12-day Jomsom to Lo Manthang routes are all excellent choices.

Watch the sunrise in Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, or Daman

The Kathmandu Valley’s fringes are dotted with villages and towns whose elevated locations offer sublime views of the Himalayas, particularly at sunrise. They include Nagarkot , Dhulikhel , and Daman, which are all easy to reach from Kathmandu.

Many of their guesthouses and hotels are oriented to allow you to gaze out at the world’s highest mountains from the comfort of your room or balcony, though there are also numerous viewpoints that can be accessed for free or a small fee. To maximise the likelihood of clear, cloud-free skies, visit from October to December or from March to April.

Visit the birthplace of the Buddha

In 563 BCE, Siddhartha Gautama – who later became known as the Buddha – was born in Lumbini in the western Terai. The spot is now marked by the Maya Devi Temple , which is named after his mother and is thought to date back some 2200 years. Alongside Bodhgaya in India, where the Buddha found enlightenment, it is the holiest site in Buddhism.

The Maya Devi Temple is part of a huge complex that includes a range of temples built by Buddhist communities across the globe, including China, Cambodia, and Thailand, as well as gardens, a museum and cultural center, and a gleaming peace pagoda.

Kick back in Bandipur

A picture postcard bazaar town perched on a ridge, Bandipur is the perfect place for a spot of idle relaxation. It is packed with attractive 18th-century townhouses, several of which have been turned into elegant boutique hotels, guesthouses, and homestays.

Although you could head out for a walk, go rock climbing or even visit a nearby silkworm farm, it’s hard to beat simply ordering a coffee and watching the world go by or losing yourself in the superlative Himalayan views.

Go white water rafting

Although most famous as a trekking destination, Nepal also offers world-class white water rafting (and kayaking), with plenty of options for novices and pros alike. For an economical introduction, take a one- or two-day trip along the Trisuli river, which is close to Kathmandu. 

Alternatively, test yourself on the more challenging Bhote Kosi, Nepal’s steepest rafting river, which surges down from the Tibetan border, or try a week-long journey through the wilderness on the Sun Kosi or Tamur rivers.

Explore the Kathmandu Valley’s medieval architecture

The historic quarters of Kathmandu and the neighboring cities of Patan (also known as Lalitpur – “City of Beauty”) and Bhaktapur are famous for their evocative medieval architecture. Despite being badly affected by the devastating 2015 earthquake, their Durbar Squares (royal plazas) are still lined with well-preserved or restored palaces, temples, shrines, and pavilions, many of which are open to the public. 

They collectively form a Unesco World Heritage Site, alongside several Buddhist and Hindu temples and monuments in the Kathmandu Valley, including Swayambhunath.

Go birdwatching in Koshi Tappu

In the eastern part of the Terai, the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is a birdwatching hotspot. At least 527 avian species can be spotted in its wetlands and grasslands, many of which are rare or at risk. They include the swamp francolin, the Bengal florican, and the red-necked falcon.

You may also see some of the last surviving arnas, endangered wild water buffaloes with giant sets of horns.

Paraglide in Pokhara

For adventure sports enthusiasts there are few better places on Earth than the chilled-out lakeside city of Pokhara. Nestled in the shadow of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges, it offers everything from trekking and rafting to bungee jumping and canyoning.

Pokhara is also an incredible place to go paragliding: after taking off from the nearby peak of Sarangkot and soaring through the azure sky on thermals you’ll be rewarded with mountain views of heart-stopping beauty.

Learn about Tibetan Buddhism in Bodhnath

The Kathmandu Valley village of Bodhnath (also known as Bouda) is home to a thriving community of Tibetan Buddhist exiles. Its focal point is a monumental whitewashed stupa, which was built around 600 CE and draws pilgrims from far and wide. The surrounding streets and plazas are filled with monks and students in maroon robes, strings of colorful prayer flags, and stores selling butter lamps.

Numerous monasteries and institutes in Bodhnath run courses for foreign visitors on Tibetan Buddhist theory, practice and meditation, ranging from introductory seminars to advanced study programs.

Stop off for tea in Ilam

In the far east of Nepal, the lush hills around the pretty mountain village of Ilam produce exceptional tea. They share the same climate and geography – though not the scale or international renown – of nearby Darjeeling, which lies just across the border in India. Visiting the tea gardens, which are hives of activity during the April–November picking season, and sampling a brew is a must.

You might also like: The Nepali mountaineer reclaiming the Himalaya    6 must-visit day-trip destinations from Kathmandu    Pick your peak: discovering Nepal's best trekking regions   

Nepal is on our 2022 Best of Travel list. For more stories from some of the world’s most exciting destinations click here .

Safety recommendations and restrictions during a pandemic can change rapidly. Lonely Planet recommends that travelers always check with local authorities for up-to-date guidance before  traveling during Covid-19 .

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Places To Visit in Nepal

Here are the top 32 tourist places and attractions in nepal, 1. kathmandu.

1 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal 46 Tourist attractions

Sprawled over its namesake valley surrounded by Himalayan mountains, Kathmandu is Nepal’s capital and most-visited destination, full of ancient temples, golden pagodas, natural beauty and fascinating villages. At an elevation of 4,344 feet, Kathmandu marks the confluence of the Bagmati and Vishnumat...

Best Time: September to November

2 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal 33 Tourist attractions

Pokhara, the 'Tourist Capital of Nepal,' is the second-largest city in this Himalayan country, after Kathmandu. At an altitude of more than 900m, it is one of the highest cities, making it the base for many world-famous treks. The highlight of the town is its Lakeside, which is a boating paradise fl...

3 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal 20 Tourist attractions

Nestled in the Himalayas in Nepal,  the beautiful town of Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Lumbini is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with many ancient stupas dating back to 2000 years and monasteries built by past dynasties. People come here from all over the world to this abode of ...

Best Time: April to May

4. Chitwan National Park

4 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Chitwan National Park, nestled in the subtropical lowlands of southern Nepal, spans an impressive area of approximately 932 square kilometers. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this sanctuary embodies Nepal's commitment to preserving its diverse ecosystems and rich wildlife. The park stand...

Best Time: October - March

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Nepal pokhara tour package with chitwan jungle safari, nepal honeymoon package with candle lit dinner at nepali restaurant, amazing nepal tour package with lumbini sightseeing, 5. bhaktapur.

5 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal 11 Tourist attractions

Bhaktapur is one of three medieval cities in the Kathmandu Valley, the other two being Kathmandu and Patan. It is often referred to as Bhadgaon and Khwopa and has a mix of Hindu and Buddhist population. This city is located around 12 kilometres from the capital city of Kathmandu and is divided into ...

Best Time: October to November, March to April 

6. Janakpur

6 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal 9 Tourist attractions

Janakpur is a city in Nepal which is believed to be the birthplace of Goddess Sita and the place of her marriage with Lord Ram. Also known as the City of Ponds, Janakpur boasts of more than seventy ponds that dot its verdant landscape. Here you can learn more about the ancient and revered Hindu...

Best Time: September to March

7 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal 10 Tourist attractions

Patan is the third-largest city in Nepal right after Kathmandu and Pokhara. It is presently known as Lalitpur. Both names are derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Lalitapattan’. The city is located just across the river Bagmati from Kathmandu. Patan has a Durbar Square that is full of statues, templ...

Best Time: November-January

8. Bandipur

8 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Pretty as a picture - that is how one can perfectly describe Bandipur. This living and breathing abode of Newari culture is a hilltop settlement in the Gandaki Zone at 1030 metres, some 700 metres above the Marsyangdi River. The municipality snuggles itself on the saddle of the Mahabharat Range...

9. Nagarkot

9 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal 8 Tourist attractions

Located at a mere 28-kilometre drive away from Kathmandu, Nagarkot offers one of the best views of the Himalayas in the entire region as it has an altitude of 7000 feet (2000 metres)! Perched at the edge of Kathmandu Valley, Nagarkot gives you one of the widest panoramas of the Himalayan ranges...

Best Time: October to March

10. Sagarmatha National Park

10 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Sagarmatha National Park is a wildlife reserve that is well known to people for its location which is dominated by Mount Everest in the Himalayas of Eastern Nepal. The location, which is in the Solukhumbu district of Nepal, has been visited by tourists since the 1960s, although it was officially est...

Best Time: October to November

Best tourist destinations in Nepal

Temples in Nepal

Hill Stations in Nepal

Cities in Nepal

11 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal 8 Tourist attractions

Dharan is a city located near the Southeastern border of India and is a replica of Indian culture and tradition. Dharan is the gateway to the Mahabharat hills and is one of the biggest pilgrimage locations in Nepal. This low-lying hilly region is extremely clean, colourful and culturally d...

Best Time: January to April; September to December

12. Mustang

12 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Mustang is known for its trekking tours and mountain sightseeing. Elevated at an altitude of 3840 kilometres, this city is divided into two parts: Lower and Upper Mustang. Even though it is relatively unexplored, this city is a great destination for those who want to immerse in Tibetan culture as we...

Best Time: June to September

13. Chitlang

13 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Chitlang is an ancient Newar dominant village in Nepal. Surrounded by the Chandragiri hills, it is acclaimed as one of the most popular stops in the old trading routes from Tibet to India and thus holds a rich historical significance. Chitlang serves to be the most preferred destination from Ka...

Best Time: Throughout the year

14 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Some 25 km north of Abu Khaireni, the picturesque town called Gorkha is the ancient home of the lionhearted Gorkha people. Around 300 years ago, when Prithvi Narayan Shah unified all the rivalling fiefdoms of Nepal into one monarchy and divided up the country into 50 different states, Gorkha was bor...

15. Kirtipur

15 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

The sleepy town of Kirtipur comes like a breath of fresh air amidst the other dust laden villages and cities. Thanks to the stunning ancient temples that are scattered along its backstreets and the authentic experience of the Newari culture that it offers, the town has been gaining more and more pop...

16. Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

16 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Towards the north of the Kathmandu valley, just from where the hustle and bustle of the urban world start to fade away, and the imaginary lines of the city get blurred into the outskirts, lies the Shivpuri National Park. The sprawling sub-tropical forest, spreading for around 160 square meters, the ...

17 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Located in the Khumbu area of the Solukhumbu district in north-eastern Nepal, Lukla is a small town perched at the height of 2,860 metres above the sea level. While many would describe the place to be just an airport and a strip of hotels, this quaint little town definitely offers much more than tha...

18. Biratnagar

18 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Biratnagar is a metropolitan city located near the Indian border and is the capital city of Province No.1 in Nepal. Biratnagar is popular for its Jute Mills - the first large scale industry of Nepal and the famous Kali Mandir that holds high religious importance in Hinduism in the country. Name...

Best Time: November-March

19. Dhulikhel

19 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

You can never get enough of the mountains. There is something about the scenic beauty and tranquillity of the majestic peaks that just makes you want to stay there forever and breathe in the pure fresh air. Dhulikhel in the Kathmandu Valley is one such place, which offers picturesque views of the hi...

20. Panauti

20 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Located some 32 kilometres away from the capital Kathmandu, Panauti is a leftover reminiscence of a time long bygone. The word ''Panauti' in Hindi means 'unlucky', and for some reason unknown, it sits perfectly well with the historical background of this medieval city. At one glance, the town of Pan...

Best Tourist Attractions in Nepal

Go Trekking Across the Majestic Himalayas

Explore the Iconic Kathmandu Durbar Square

Be Amidst Beautiful Nepalese Temple Architecture

Visit the Birthplace of Buddha, Maya Devi Temple

Take a Wildlife Safari at Chitwan National Park

Indulge in Some Delicious Nepali Cuisine

Experience Thrill With These Adventure Activities in Nepal

Visit the Holiest Shrine in Nepal, the Pashupatinath Temple

Visit Patan, a Town That Dates Back to 250 BC!

Go Paragliding in Pokhara!

Go Bungee Jumping in Nepal

Make a Trip to the Stunning Hill Stations

21. Pathibhara temple

21 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Pathibhara temple, also known as Mukkumlung, is said to be one of the most significant Hindu temples in Nepal. Located on top of the Taplejung hills, this temple offers scenic views of Mount Kanchenjunga. This temple is considered one of the holiest temples, and many people travel from various parts...

22. Birgunj

22 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Birgunj is a Nepali city which is based near the border of the Indian state of Bihar. It is a major point of entry for Indian goods trade. Birgunj also receives the goods coming in from the port of Kolkata. Located in the Terai region, Birgunj is the second-largest city after Bir...

23. Bharatpur

23 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

A lot of people visit Nepal for the attraction of the wilderness, namely Chitwan National Park. Bharatpur is the city that falls right in the gateway of the forested area. Located in central-south of Nepal, Bharatpur is the headquarters of the Chitwan district as well as a separate metropolitan admi...

24. Itahari

24 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

A sub-metropolitan city with seven municipalities in the Sunsari district, Itahari has recently evolved into a bustling transportation junction in the eastern side of Nepal. The two main branches of the Nepal highway circulation - Mahendra Highway running from east to west and Koshi Highway running ...

25 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Jomsom is also known as Dzong-Sampa or New Fort. Jomsom lies along both the banks of Kali Gandaki river in the Mustang District of Nepal. Jomsom is the capital of Mustang district. Kali Gandaki happens to be the deepest gorge in the world. The altitude of Jomsom is 2700 m. Jomsom has developed as a ...

26. Kagbeni

26 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Far away from the bustling town squares and temples and dance festivals of the towns and cities of Nepal, the village of Kagbeni awaits you with its audacious beauty. Officially Kagbeni is a settlement that bridges the gap between Lower and Upper Mustang, right at the feet of Muktinath Valley by the...

27. Mount Manaslu

27 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

The word Manaslu comes from the Sanskrit word manas, which means a person's soul, and Mount Manaslu can be reflected as exactly that - the mountain of the soul. Despite all the chaotic craze around mountain trekking that Nepal experiences every season, Manaslu has surprisingly held on to its pristin...

28. Narayangarh

28 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Narayangarh is a major transportation and commercial hub in Nepal. This moderately crowded city falls under the bigger umbrella of Bharatpur City and under the administrative jurisdiction of Chitwan district in southern Nepal. Narayangarh, also referred to as Narayanghat, sits with all its buzzing n...

29. Shashwat Dham

29 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

The thing about Nepal is that you can never run out of spiritual places to visit. And yet most of them are old temples with the same archaic architecture and follows a typical path of devotion. Shashwat Dham, on the other hand, is completely different, both in terms of ambience and philosophy practi...

30. Nuwakot

30 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Stuck somewhere in between the 17th-century ambience and 21st-century facilities, Nuwakot is one of the most attractive destinations of Nepal. Albeit there are not many attractions to see, the Nuwakot Palace and its Durbar Square in itself are enough to draw the travellers who love to delve deep dow...

31 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Located at 2322 metres above the sea level in the Thaha Municipality of Nepal, Daman has inarguably the best view of the Himalayan range in the entire country. On the best of days, the whole stretch from Mount Dhaulagiri in the west to Mount Everest in the east can be seen perfectly. The snow-creste...

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Complete Guide to Kathmandu

Top Things to Do in Kathmandu

Top Things to Do in Pokhara

Sacred Sites

Amazing Festivals

Top National Parks

Must-Try Food

Annapurna Circuit

Manaslu Circuit

Himalaya Trail

Facts About Mt. Everest

Trek to Everest Base Camp

Best Time to Visit

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Kathmandu Airport Guide

Top Destinations in Nepal

One Week in Nepal

Tipping Guide

Getting Around

Top Things to Do in Nepal

The Top 20 Things to Do in Nepal

 Kriangkrai Thitimakorn / Getty Images

Nepal is well known for its very, very high mountains—in fact, it's home to eight of the world's top 10 highest mountains. Adventure lovers flock to Nepal to climb and trek in the Himalayas, but there's so much more to see and do in this geographically and culturally diverse country. Along with the mountains, there are jungle-filled plains, rolling hills, and vibrant cities. Nepal is a predominantly Hindu country, but the influence of the strong Buddhist minority can be seen almost everywhere.

Whether you're seeking physical challenges surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery on the planet, or more sedate city pursuits, Nepal's got you covered.

Climb a Mountain That’s not Everest

 saimai saelim / Getty Images

Mount Everest may be Nepal's most famous mountain, but it's far from the only one that can be climbed. And, given the environmental cost, questionable ethics, extreme risk, and immense expense of climbing Everest, there are actually many other mountains in Nepal that mountaineers should set their sights on instead.

Less experienced mountaineers who still want a challenge can tackle a "trekking peak," a category of mountain that doesn't require advanced technical mountaineering skills, but is still much more challenging than a regular trek. Twenty-eight peaks in Nepal are classified as trekking peaks, with Island Peak (20,252 feet/6,173 meters) being one of the most popular.

More experienced mountaineers have a choice of more than 300 mountains around the country, around 100 of which have never been climbed. You won't encounter any human traffic jams there.

Ride the Manakamana Cable Car

 rweisswald / Getty Images

Halfway along the Prithvi Highway between Kathmandu and Pokhara is the cable car at Kurintar, which is hard to miss. It leads up to the Manakamana Temple in the hills of Gorkha District, one of Nepal's most important Hindu pilgrimage sites. The temple itself was badly damaged in the 2015 earthquake, but reconstruction was completed in 2018. From the temple, on a clear day, there are beautiful views of the Himalayas. But, even if the weather's not clear, the long cable car ride over the Trishuli River Valley and beautiful farmland is definitely worthwhile.

Learn about Nepali Religious Architecture at the Patan Museum

Elen Turner

Travelers interested in art, culture, and architecture should make the excellent Patan Museum one of their first stops in Kathmandu. Located in the old palace building in the Patan Durbar Square, this is Nepal's finest museum, with exhibits on the Hindu and Buddhist culture of the Kathmandu Valley, specifically related to the architecture and religious monuments you see around the valley.

Shop for Locally-Made Handicrafts and Textiles

 Bertrand Linet / Getty Images

Nepal has a rich handicraft tradition, and these days you can either shop for traditional items or more contemporary designs inspired by traditional elements. Items to look out for include mala bead necklaces, dhaka cloth clothing, items utilizing the striped pangden aprons woven by Tibetan women, pottery, handmade lokta paper, Tibetan Buddhist thangka paintings, hand-woven bags, and Maithil paintings made by women. Fair-trade shops selling more traditional items, mainly made by women, include Dhukuti (in Kathmandu) and the Women's Skills Development Organisation (with shops in Kathmandu and Pokhara). For more modern design items, check out Timro Conceptstore or The Local Project , both in Kathmandu.

Splash Your Way Down a White-Water River

Nepal is a white-water lover's paradise, with many long, clean rivers flanked by white-sand beaches, jungle, and villages. Complete novices can join a one-day white-water rafting trip on the Bhote Kosi or Trishuli Rivers, or learn to white-water kayak. Longer multi-day adventures are also offered, from a couple of days on the Seti or Kali Gandaki Rivers to 8-13 day expeditions on the Sun Kosi, Karnali, or Tamur Rivers.

Paraglide Over Pokhara

 Elen Turner

Strolling through the lakeside town Pokhara you're sure to notice the colorful paragliders floating overhead. Sarangkot Hill, just north of Pokhara's Phewa Lake, is one of the best places in the world from which to paraglide, thanks to the stable thermals and incredible views. On one side you'll be treated to views of the Annapurna Himalaya, and on the other, you'll see Phewa Lake and the small farming villages around Pokhara. Beginners can take tandem flights with an instructor.

Visit the Birthplace of the Buddha

 Rupad Bajracharya / Getty Images

Although Nepal is a majority Hindu nation, it has strong Buddhist connections, the most significant of which is the fact that Prince Siddhartha Gautama, aka the Buddha, was born here in 623 B.C. The modern-day nation-states of India and Nepal didn't exist then, but he was born in Lumbini, a small settlement on the Terai (Nepali plains), near the border with India. Travelers to Lumbini can visit the Peace Park, which has many monasteries and temples constructed by Buddhist organizations and governments from around the world.

Paddle a Colorful Boat on Phewa Lake

The colorful boats of Pokhara's Phewa Lake are an iconic image of the city. Rent a paddleboat with an oarsman to spend some time admiring the peace, quiet, and mountain views from the middle of the lake. The Tal Barahi Temple, on a little island in the lake, is a worthwhile stop.

Spot Rhinos on Safari in Chitwan

Elen Turner 

Over the last few years, the Chitwan National Park has run a successful one-horned rhinoceros conservation program. Poaching has been dramatically reduced (if not totally eliminated), and there are now, more than 600 rhinos live in the park. Visitors are almost guaranteed a sighting of the enormous creatures when on a Jeep, ox-cart, or walking safari. You could also spot the endangered gharial crocodile, deer, elephants, lots of different birds, or a Royal Bengal Tiger (although the chances of seeing them are higher in Bardia National Park , further west in Nepal).

Take a Teahouse Trek

Nepal is a popular trekking destination, partially because of the excellent infrastructure in the mountains. Whereas in some countries you may need to camp or stay in shared huts, in Nepal you can stay in "teahouses" along the more popular routes. These are like basic guesthouses, and while facilities are normally not fancy (with some exceptions) you generally get your own room, warm blankets, and hot food. The Everest and Annapurna regions have the most developed teahouse infrastructure, but you can find teahouses in many different trekking areas.

Chill Out at the Garden of Dreams

Kathmandu can be a frazzling and infuriating, but the peaceful Garden of Dreams is a delightful place to chill out right in the heart of the city. The manicured garden with fountains, flowers, and arches is attached to the Kaiser Mahal, a 19th-century palace that wouldn't look out of place in Europe. Grab a drink at the Kaiser Cafe or just find a spot in the shade and read a book.

Visit all Three Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley

 Didier Marti / Getty Images

"Durbar Square" means royal square, and as the Kathmandu Valley is comprised of three erstwhile kingdoms, there are three Durbar Squares: in the city of Kathmandu (also called Basantapur Durbar Square), Patan, and Bhaktapur. Each has a distinct feel and architecture, so all three are worthy of your time. Kathmandu's Durbar Square combines traditional Nepali/Newari temple architecture with neo-classical designs, Patan Durbar Square is entirely traditional and houses the unparalleled Patan Museum (and is, arguably, the most beautiful and well preserved of the three squares), and Bhaktapur Durbar Square was badly damaged in the 2015 earthquake but is still worth a visit.

Birdwatch at the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

 Wei Hao Ho / Getty Images

While Chitwan is where you should head for rhinos, the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is an excellent destination for keen birdwatchers. Not many tourists visit the park, located in the wetlands where several rivers meet. It's a haven for many bird species, including greater spotted eagles, spot-billed pelicans, and much more.

Travel to the Other Side of the Himalaya

Most of Nepal lies south of the great Himalayan range, but there are pockets over on the other side, in the rain-shadow of the mountains. These regions—Mustang and Dolpo—are culturally and naturally distinct from most of the rest of Nepal, and are a fascinating destination for trekking or just general sightseeing. Jomsom is the gateway to Mustang, and can be reached by a 30-minute flight from Pokhara up the Kali Gandaki Gorge. Dolpo is more complicated to reach, but that's part of its allure. Dry, barren mountains, sandcastle-like forts, Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, ancient cave dwellings, and fossils of sea creatures at altitudes of 8,000 feet (2,438 meters) await adventurous travelers.

Join Tibetan Pilgrims at One of Buddhism’s Holiest Sites

Kathmandu's Boudha Stupa is the holiest Tibetan Buddhist site outside of Tibet, and the Boudha area is the center of Kathmandu's Tibetan community. The enormous white stupa with a golden pinnacle painted with the eyes of Buddha is spectacular at any time of day, but it's especially atmospheric at dawn and dusk when hundreds of devotees do a kora (clockwise circuit) of the stupa.

Celebrate a Traditional Hindu or Buddhist Festival

Many Hindu and Buddhist festivals are celebrated in Nepal throughout the year, and are a cultural treat for travelers. Foreigners are usually very welcome to observe or participate. Major festivals include:

• Dashain, the biggest Hindu festival held in September/October, celebrating the triumph of good over evil
• Tihar, the Hindu festival of lights, held in October/November
• Holi, held in February/March, is a festival of color and water that welcomes spring
• Rato Macchendranath Festival, held in Patan in April/May, is Nepal's longest-running festival. It goes for around a month in Patan, and is a Newari festival worshiping the god Rato Macchendranath
• Buddha Jayanti, Buddha's birthday, in April, especially celebrated in Buddhist areas like Boudha
• Teej, held in September, is when Nepali Hindu women let loose by dancing in temples and praying for the long life of their husbands

Find Kathmandu’s Colorful Street Art

Many of Kathmandu's attractions are traditional in nature, but over the last decade, a number of street art projects have brightened up the overwhelmingly drab, concrete facades of the city. Colorful murals of everything from gods to tigers to geometric designs adorn walls all over the city, but there's a particularly large concentration in the Kupondole area of Patan.

Feast on Dal Bhat

Ben Pipe Photography / Getty Images

Nepal's de facto national dish is a collection of smaller dishes that comprise a meal. Dal means lentils, and bhat means rice, so dal bhat is, at its simplest, lentil curry served with rice. But, a meal of dal bhat usually includes several vegetable curries as well as a meat curry (most likely chicken or mutton), a salad, and a spicy pickle. You can find delicious dal bhat at every price point, and its always tasty, filling, and nutritious.

Sip on Ilam Tea

 Volker Häring / EyeEm / Getty Images

Many tea-drinking enthusiasts are familiar with Indian Darjeeling tea, but fewer have tried tea from Ilam in eastern Nepal, despite the area being just across the border from Darjeeling. Travelers can pick up wooden boxes of Ilam tea in shops around Kathmandu, or travel all the way east to hike, birdwatch, and enjoy the rolling tea-field scenery of Ilam.

Visit Nepal's Holiest Hindu Temple, Pashupatinath

Pashupatinath Temple is Nepal's holiest Hindu site. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, it's also the city's most important cremation ground. Non-Hindus won't be allowed into the most important temple buildings, but are welcome to visit the grounds. There's a reverential atmosphere here, as open-air cremations and funerals take place throughout the day.

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nepal

Written by Lana Law Updated Mar 22, 2022

Nepal is a surprisingly diverse country that attracts visitors for many reasons. Some are lured by the call of the mountains and seeking to climb or trek in the Himalayas, others are intrigued by the culture and the famous city of Kathmandu, and yet others come hoping to find some sort of spiritual awakening. Nepal can be an adrenaline adventure, a cultural eye opener, a life-changing experience, or all of the above.

Most travelers spend some time in Kathmandu visiting sacred and historic attractions, and then head out to other parts of the country. Some of the best places to visit outside the capital are Chitwan National Park and Bardiya National Park for wildlife viewing, and the lakeside town of Pokhara , a popular area for embarking on treks.

Trekkers will find a variety of options across Nepal, with the most important areas being the Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang regions.

In 2015, a major earthquake struck Nepal, causing severe damage in Kathmandu and other areas, and restoration is still underway. In Nepal, things take time to happen, and when they do, they tend to happen unevenly, so progress has been substantial in some areas and limited in others. That said, much of the damage to the major sights has been repaired, although some historical treasures were lost forever.

To find the best places to visit, have a read through our list of the top attractions in Nepal.

1. Kathmandu

2. bhaktapur, 3. boudhanath stupa (bodhnath), 5. trekking in the annapurna region, 6. chitwan national park, 7. trekking in the langtang region, 8. swayambhunath (monkey temple), 9. everest & the trek to base camp, 10. bardiya national park, 11. pashupatinath temple, 12. international mountain museum, 13. lumbini, 14. helambu trek, 15. white water rafting.

Kathmandu, the capital and largest city in Nepal, is like no other city in the world. The decaying buildings in the heart of the city are a stark contrast to the lively atmosphere that permeates the streets. The smell of incense wafts from stores while street sellers push their goods, and people go about their daily lives, all against a backdrop of historic temples and carved statues.

For several hundred years, Kathmandu was one of three rival royal cities, along with Bhaktapur and Patan. Situated in close proximity to each other, today these three almost run together.

The highlight of Kathmandu has long been Durbar Square, the largest of the palace squares in the three royal cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Temples and monuments of varying shapes, sizes, styles, and faiths can be found here.

Kathmandu's Durbar Square was severely damaged in the 2015 earthquake, with many buildings destroyed beyond repair, but it still remains a special place to visit.

Bhaktapur, the third of the "Royal Cities," lies on the old trade route to Tibet, just outside of Kathmandu. For Bhaktapur, the trade route was both an arterial link and major source of wealth. Its relative remoteness at the time allowed the city to develop independently and in ways which distinguish it from the other two cities.

In contrast to Patan and Kathmandu, the population of Bhaktapur is primarily Hindu. The best place from which to begin a tour of the city is Durbar Square, where in addition to the royal palace, several temples are also situated. The whole area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Many of the buildings in Durbar Square in Bhaktapur were damaged in the 2015 earthquake; the main temples are close to being repaired fully. However, other buildings in the complex remain in ruin. The UNESCO-funded restoration work came to a stop in 2019 and the agency had to withdraw due to threats against its workers. The project has been turned over to the Nepali Department of Archeology. Restoration work continues albeit very slowly.

The Bodhanath Stupa, just outside Kathmandu, is one of the largest stupas of its kind in the world and dates to some time around the 6th century, possibly even earlier. Like Bhaktapur, it lies on the old trade route to Tibet and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The stupa itself is a symbol of enlightenment but at Boudhanath the symbolism is particularly clear. Each different shape represents one of the five elements, earth, water, fire, air, and sphere, which are also the attributes of the five Buddhas. Brought together in the form of the stupa, their unity reflects in abstract fashion the structure of the universe itself.

The stupa sustained minor damage during the 2015 earthquake and is now fully repaired.

Set at the base of the foothills and surrounded by some of the highest mountains in the world – Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Annapurna I – Pokhara is one of Nepal's most scenic cities. For trekkers, Pokhara is the gateway to the Himalayas and the starting point for treks to Jomsom and the Annapurna region. It's also a wonderful spot to relax for a bit, either before or after a hiking trip.

By population, it is the second largest city in Nepal after Kathmandu but still does not feel like a big city. As you travel from Kathmandu, 200 kilometers to the east, you'll notice the much cleaner air and pleasant climate almost immediately. Lake Phewa, with its cluster of lakeside hotels, restaurants, and shops, is ideal for those looking for a little relaxation.

The Annapurna Region is one of the most popular trekking regions in Nepal, with options that range from a few days to a few weeks. Three main routes in the Annapurna Region intersect and combine in places, and you can opt to do a portion or a variation on the routes. The routes are well marked and easy to follow.

The Annapurna Circuit around Annapurna Mountain takes about 21 days to complete and is incredibly popular with people who have enough time. This route is sometimes called the "Apple Pie Circuit," in reference to the fact that most of the teahouses along the route serve their own version of fried apple pie.

A popular hiking destination in this region, often offered in hiking packages in combination with the Annapurna Circuit, is the trek to Poon Hill (3,210 meters) near Ghorepani. Most hikers try to be on Poon Hill early to see sunrise and a stunning view of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machapuchare, and Singa Chuli.

The Annapurna Sanctuary nestles between the peaks of Annapurna and takes five days to reach. Muktinath is on the way to Annapurna but has since become a destination in its own right. The Muktinath route runs in the Kali Gandaki Valley on the east flank of Annapurna and takes seven days. North of Muktinath is Mustang, a small region that was only opened up to tourists in 1992. This area has its own fascinating culture.

In many regards, the Annapurna Region, north of Pokhara, is an ideal walking area. The dramatic contrasts of the Nepalese countryside are especially visible, from the subtropical vegetation of the Pokhara Valley to the dry rain shadow area, with features of the Tibetan plateau. The people and cultures are also very different: facial characteristics, food, houses, lifestyles, customs, and religion.

The Annapurna region was declared a protected area in 1986. Most importantly, it has a good infrastructure to support the many trekkers that come through this area. The paths are well maintained, and food and lodging are plentiful.

Chitwan National Park is the place to come to experience a different side of Nepal. This is a wonderful place for wildlife viewing and it has a safari-type atmosphere. At an altitude of only 100 meters in some areas, much lower than Kathmandu at 1,400 meters, Chitwan has a tropical monsoon climate, quite different than what you'd expect to find in Nepal.

Travelers come here to see wildlife. The park is home to rhinos, Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, gaur (buffalo), deer, and many other critters. Freshwater dolphins (gangetic) and crocodiles inhabit the rivers and streams but are rarely seen. More than 500 species of birds make Chitwan a paradise for ornithologists. Tours from the lodges take you out into the park, either on foot, or more often, on elephants for close-up views of the animals.

Chitwan lies southwest of Kathmandu close to the Indian frontier and is included in the UNESCO list of world cultural heritage sites.

The best time to visit Chitwan is from October to February. Average temperatures hover around 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit), with high humidity, although the mornings can be quite cool. June to September is the monsoon season, with frequent and heavy rain.

The Langtang Region, home to Langtang National Park , is an incredible area for hiking, with high passes, extensive views, old monasteries, and beautiful mountain scenery. Rhododendron forests bloom during the spring hiking season adding color to the vistas.

The region, home to the Sherpa people, is less developed than some of the other popular trekking areas in Nepal and generally less busy on the trails, despite its close proximity to Kathmandu. Villages with guesthouses and food can be found along the route, although somewhat more spread out than in other trekking regions.

This area can be reached easily from Kathmandu by jeep in seven to eight hours. On a clear day, the peak of Langtang Lirung (7,245 meters), which dominates the surrounding area of the same name, is visible from Kathmandu.

Trekking lengths and duration in Langtang range from a few days to a couple of weeks depending on the routing. Some trekkers combine Helambu and Langtang for a longer trek.

Set on a hilltop to the west of Kathmandu, Swayambhunath is the second most important shrine in the Kathmandu Valley after Boudhanath. Due to the resident monkeys that inhabit parts of the temple, it is more affectionately known as the Monkey Temple.

The Swayambhu Stupa, painted with the eyes of the omnipresent god, forms the centerpiece of the temple complex. It was originally a prehistoric cult site, but the temple complex dates to the 5th century. Swayambhu plays a major part in the lives of the Vajrayana Buddhists of Northern Nepal and Tibet, but especially of the Newari Buddhists of the Kathmandu Valley.

The 2015 earthquake caused some damage to the Swayambhunath temple complex; however, repairs are now complete, and the temple is back to its original condition.

The summit of Mount Everest, the highest mountain on earth, reaches 8,848 meters (29,028 feet) high. Trekking in the Mount Everest area became popular following the now legendary first ascent of the peak in 1953 by Edmund Hillary from New Zealand and the Sherpa Tensing Norgay.

Since that time, many more have summited the mountain, but far more trek the route to Everest Base Camp simply for a glimpse of the peak far above. In recent years the mountain has seen its fair share of tragedy and drama. The 2015 earthquake and previous avalanches, along with disputes between climbers on the mountain, have left their mark on Everest trekking and climbing.

The Everest Region is generally not regarded as the most scenic region in the country for trekking, but the allure of Everest makes it a popular destination, both for climbers and trekkers. There are various routes to access base camp and several options for organizing a trip.

Many trekking companies offer a guided hike, either with Nepalese companies or western-based companies. It's also possible to hire a private guide or porter and do it yourself; however, all trekkers are technically required to have a guide. The main hiking seasons are in the spring and fall, from March to May and September to December.

For those not looking to trek to Mount Everest but still wanting to see the mountain , it is possible to see it on clear days from the hill town of Nagarkot near Kathmandu. Hotel staff will knock on guests' doors on clear mornings if Everest is visible. This might be the lazy traveler's best chance of seeing the world's highest peak.

Many people are surprised to learn that Nepal has extensive lowland areas where Bengal tigers, rhinos, crocodiles, and elephants roam. One of the best spots to see these animals in their natural habitant is Bardiya National Park (also Bardia National Park). In addition to the large animals, the park is also a bird-watching hot spot, with over 400 species either living in, or transiting through, the region.

Located off on its own in northwest Nepal near the border of India, this area is known for its river valleys, extensive grasslands, and tropical forest dominated by the Sal tree. Areas of the national park were once the exclusive hunting domain of Nepali royalty. Through the years, it has been expanded and now encompasses 968 square kilometers.

Dating from the turn of the 17th century, the Pashupatinath Temple is the oldest temple in Kathmandu and also considered one of the most sacred in Nepal. Located in western Kathmandu along the Bagmati River, the temple is known for its beautiful pagoda-style architecture, with copper and gold covering.

The temple is dedicated to Pashupati, one of the incarnations of Shiva. Of the three gates, only the western one is open, and only practicing Hindus of South Asian descent are allowed inside. A good viewpoint of the complex for non-Hindus is located across the river. One note of caution: the monkeys that hang out around this area may look cute, but they tend to be aggressive and should be treated with caution.

Located in the beautiful mountain town of Pokhara, the International Mountain Museum is a must-see prior to heading off on a trek. This very impressive modern building is a bright and airy space and houses all the information you could ever want to know about the mountains of Nepal and the people who inhabit them.

Three main galleries are spread throughout the museum, the first being the Mountain People Gallery. Here, through exhibits and a video, you'll learn about the Indigenous people of Nepal and the Khumbu region in particular.

The second gallery deals with the mountains themselves and provides extensive information on 14 peaks over 8,000 meters, along with an overview of the geology that formed them.

The third gallery provides insight into equipment used in mountain climbing and delves into the mythology of the secretive Yeti. In addition to the galleries, a Lakhang room is available for quiet contemplation.

If you're looking for other things to do nearby, outside is a tall triangular climbing wall along with a smaller version for those less inclined.

Address: Nagpokhari, Naxal, Kathmandu, Nepal

Official site: https://www.internationalmountainmuseum.org/

Lumbini is famous for being the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, the historic Buddha, known as Buddha Shakyamuni. Situated off the main tourist track, almost 250 kilometers from Kathmandu, Lumbini is a worthwhile detour on the route from Pokhara to the Chitwan National Park.

In this pilgrimage town , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, there is a feeling of tranquility. Most of the visitors are Buddhist pilgrims from around the world, retracing Buddha's footsteps through the stations of his life. The Maya Devi Temple , dedicated to Buddha's mother, is believed to be the spot where Buddha was born. It contains an ancient stone relief from the 2nd century AD depicting Buddha's birth.

The Helambu region is a popular trekking area, particularly with trekking companies offering guided hikes. This is largely because it is close to Kathmandu, does not reach astoundingly high elevations, and offers some beautiful mountain scenery.

For many of these same reasons, it is often touted by tour groups as being easy. However, many hikers who come here on tours find it is more demanding than they feel they were led to believe and more difficult than they anticipate.

Trekking in the Himalayas is always demanding, and although it is not as high as other treks, it is still a physically demanding hike and trekkers should be in good physical condition. With that in mind, this is a beautiful trek, with stunning rhododendron trees in bloom in March and April, and it's well worth the effort.

The Helambu region is inhabited by the Sherpas and situated in the upper part of the Malechmi Khola valley. The Helambu Trek can be started in Kathmandu and completed in five to eight days . The typical seven-day itinerary is circular, with the first day's section being repeated at the end of the walk. The sudden contrast between the lower and upper lying regions and their characteristic cultures is striking. Accommodation can be found in lodges and village guest houses.

With towering mountains and rushing rivers Nepal is an excellent place for white water rafting. Several options are available depending on how much time you want to spend on the river.

An easy trip for travelers only looking for a one-day adventure is the Trisuli Rafting Day Trip from Kathmandu. Unlike many rafting trips, which are seasonal, this one is available year round. After your day of rafting, you can either go back to Kathmandu or on to Chitwan or Pokhara.

If you are looking to spend more time on the water and interested in more serious rapids, one of the most popular places to go is the Bhote Kosi River .

Bhote Koshi River Rafting trips take two days and are intense. You'll find yourself in the white water shortly after put in, and along the way, you'll blast through class IV and V rapids. The trip is 25 kilometers long and includes camping on the riverbank for one night. Meals are included.

Other multiday trips to consider are on the Tamur, Karnali, Arun, and Bheri rivers.

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updated 14.03.2023

For most visitors, coming to Nepal is a chance to experience the great mountains. However, once here most people are quick to realize that Nepal’s artistic heritage and fascinating wildlife are all an equal draw to the mighty peaks. Here are some of the best things to do in Nepal, to give you a taste of why you should visit this beautiful country.

1. Bhaktapur

3. elephant bathtime in sauraha, 4. local cuisine, 5. dasain & maha shivaratri festivals, 6. the himalayas - one of the top things to do in nepal, 7. janaki mandir, 8. kathmandu, 9. white water rafting, 11. phewa tal, 12. yoga and meditation, 13. visiting chitwan national park - one of the best things to do in nepal for wildlife lovers, 14. annapurna region, 15. bardia national park, 16. lumbini, 17. sagarmatha national park, 18. patan-lalitpur, 19. bandipur, 20. panauti.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Nepal , your essential guide for visiting Nepal .

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Nepal, created by local experts

11 days  / from 3248 USD

Exclusive Everest

Trek in the Everest region of Nepal's Himalayas, absorbing spectacular views at every step, including Everest rising above the Nuptse Ridge, Lhotse, the iconic peak of Ama Dablam and other Himalayan giants too. Top this off with a shot of warm Nepalese culture for an experience of a lifetime.

13 days  / from 1950 USD

Himalayan Family Adventure

Experience Nepal's hill villages and jungle lowlands as you embark on a family-friendly adventure of a lifetime. Expect mini mountain treks, overnight camps, river rafting and wildlife safaris. Come here for action, stunning mountain scenery and a look around bustling Kathmandu too.

13 days  / from 2200 USD

The UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Nepal

Set in the heart of the Himalayas, the landlocked South-Asian country of Nepal is home to a wealth of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From wild jungles to ancient civilisations, Nepal offers a combination of history, culture and nature; perfect for the most well-seasoned of travellers.

Tailor-made trips for   Nepal

Bhaktapur, located east of Kathmandu's airport, has a rich atmosphere and looks similar to Kathmandu before modern times. Rising in a tight mass of warm brick out of the fertile fields of the valley, the city looks something like Kathmandu must have done before the arrival of the modern world.

It features many significant landmarks. Taleju Temple is a three-storey temple with elaborate wood carvings and a magnificent courtyard. It is one of the most important landmarks in Bhaktapur, dedicated to Goddess Taleju Bhavani.

There are two other important temples in the city - the Dattatreya Temple dedicated to Hindu trinity, and the Nyatapola Temple in Taumadhi Square.

Set in the heart of the Himalayas, the landlocked South-Asian country of Nepal is home to a wealth of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From wild jungles to ancient civilisations, this tailor-made trip to Nepal offers a combination of history, culture and nature; perfect for the most well-seasoned of travellers.

Where to stay in Bhaktapur:

• For central location: HOTEL LAYAKU DURBAR
• For rural stays: Planet Bhaktapur Hotel

Find more accommodation options to stay in Bhaktapur

Bhaktapur is UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal © Hakat/Shutterstock

Clustered around the great white stupa, with its all-knowing Buddha eyes, is a thriving Tibetan Buddhist community and pilgrimage centre.

Early morning and dusk are the best times to visit. At these times of day, an otherworldly cacophony of music drifts from the monasteries that ring the stupa. Monks, locals, and pilgrims all perform kora together. Famed throughout the Himalayas for powers of wish fulfilment and blessing, you’ll see Tibetans, Nepali Bhotiyas (people of Tibetan ethnicity) and Tamangs from the central hills all perambulating en masse.

Kathmandu, Boudha © Shutterstock

Spectacularly situated on the banks of the Rapti River, Sauraha (pronounced So-ruh-hah) is one of those unstoppably successful destinations at which Nepal seems to excel. A collection of lodges, cafés and shops spread out along dusty roads at the edge of the forest, Sauraha offers easy access to Chitwan National Park.

During elephant bathtime, some of Sauraha’s elephants are taken down to the Rapti River for a good scrub down, and tourists can join in the experience for a small fee. For most tourists participating in elephant bathtime is one of the best things to do in Nepal – you sit on the elephant’s neck while the mahout encourages it to spray you with cold river water.

Elephant bathing in Sauraha © adrenalinrnb/Shutterstock

Nepal – and specifically Kathmandu – is renowned as the budget cuisine capital of Asia. Sadly, its reputation is based not on Nepali but on pseudo-Western food: pizza, chips (fries), “sizzling” steaks and apple pie are the staples of tourist restaurants. Outside the popular areas, however, you can discover a range of dishes.

Momo is arguably the most famous and popular of the Tibetan dishes. They are available throughout upland Nepal. The half-moon-shaped dumplings are filled with meat, vegetables and ginger, steamed, and served with hot tomato salsa and a bowl of broth.

Tea (chiya) is traditionally brewed by boiling tea dust with milk (dudh) and water, with heaps of sugar (chini). This is combined a bit of ginger, cardamom or pepper. In tourist restaurants you’ll be offered “black” or “milk” tea with a teabag – you have to specify “Nepali” or “masala” tea if you want it made the traditional way.

Nepalese traditional dumpling momos © diy13/Shutterstock

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Stumbling onto a local festival may prove to be one of the best things to do in Nepal – and given the sheer number of them, you’d be unlucky not to. Though most are religious in nature, merrymaking, not solemnity, is the order of the day, and onlookers are always welcome. Festivals may be Hindu, Buddhist, animist or a hybrid of all three.

Dasain is the high point of the busy Nepali festival calendar. Masked dancers perform elaborate rituals in Bhaktapur and Kathmandu . Many will travel for days to be at home with their families, and children celebrate by playing on bamboo swings.

Falling on the new moon of Phaagun, “Shiva’s Night” is marked by bonfires and evening vigils in all Hindu areas. Tens of thousands of pilgrims and sadhus from all over the Subcontinent gather for Nepal’s best-known mela. Fervent worship and bizarre yogic demonstrations can be seen throughout the Pashupatinath complex.

Festival dance in Nepal © Jelena Yukka/Shutterstock

Visiting the soaring Himalayas is, to many travellers, one of the chief things to do in Nepal. The country tumbles precipitously down from the 800km stretch of the Himalayan battlements that forms its northern border. Here no fewer than eight of the world’s ten highest peaks are located.

The cultures of highland-dwelling Nepalese peoples are rich and fascinating, and the relaxed, companionable spirit of trekking life is an attraction in itself. The Himalayas have long exerted a powerful spiritual pull, too. In Hindu mythology, the mountains are where gods go to meditate, while the Sherpas and other mountain peoples hold certain summits to be the very embodiment of deities.

Experience Nepal's hill villages and jungle lowlands as you embark on this tailor-made Himalayan family-friendly adventure of a lifetime. Expect mini mountain treks, overnight camps, river rafting and wildlife safaris. Come here for action, stunning mountain scenery and a look around bustling Kathmandu too.

Gorak Shep village with Mount Everest base camp, Khumbu valley, Nepal © Daniel Prudek/Shutterstock

Worshippers flock to Janakpur ’s Mughal-style Janaki Mandir to pay homage to legendary lovers Ram and Sita. A palatial confection of a building in the Mughal style, the Janaki Mandir is supposed to mark the spot where a golden image of Sita was discovered in 1657. The present plaster-and-marble structure was erected in 1911 by an Indian queen.

The Rough Guides to Nepal and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Its outer building encloses a courtyard and inner sanctum. This is where at least twice a day priests draw back a curtain to reveal an intricate silver shrine and perform rituals for attending worshippers. Non-Hindus are allowed to watch. It’s an enchanting place at night and early in the morning, when the devout gather in lamplit huddles.

Janaki Mandir temple in Janakpur © Xandra R/Shutterstock

Kathmandu is a city of contradictions - a chaotic blend of medieval time capsule and environmental disaster, holy city and tourist trap, with countless layers of sophistication. Teeming with tourists and still recovering from an earthquake, Durbar Square is a must-see starting point, home to the old royal palace and other significant monuments.

Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal's holiest Hindu pilgrimage site and a major Shiva temple, is located 4km east of central Kathmandu near the ring road. Meanwhile, Swayambhu (Monkey Temple), situated atop a conical hill 2km west of Thamel, offers a sweeping view of the Kathmandu Valley and is an iconic landmark of Nepal, attracting pilgrims and monkeys alike.

Where to stay in Kathmandu:

• For boutique stays: Arushi Boutique Hotel
• For families: Hotel Jampa

Find more accommodation options to stay in Kathmandu

Swayambhunath, Kathmandu, Nepal © Shutterstock

Short rafting and kayaking trips are hugely accessible in Nepal, even for beginners. Some of the longer trips are world classics, offering the experience of a lifetime. If you can afford it, adding a rafting trip to the beginning or end of a trekking trip is well worth the extra time and money.

Not just for adrenaline junkies — this is one of the best things to do in Nepal for enjoying rural scenery. The eastern fringe of Pokhara is defined by the dramatic course of the Seti River, the “white river”, which gets its name from the thick glacial deposits that the water carries in suspension down from the mountains.

Take a thrilling rafting adventure in the Upper Seti, and ride class III and IV rapids on this half-day tour from Pokhara .

River rafting is one of the best things to do in Nepal for enjoying rural scenery © C. Na Songkhla/Shutterstock

Despite its beautiful hilltop location and its status as the cradle of the nation, Gorkha remains strangely under-visited by international tourists. Conscious of this and keen to change it, the government has spruced up Gorkha’s main monuments.

As the ancestral home of the Nepali royal family, Gorkha occupies a central place in the country’s history. Hunched on the hilltop above the bazaar is its link with that splendid past, the Gorkha Durbar, an architectural tour de force worthy of the flamboyant Gorkha kings and the dynasty they founded. Unless you’re setting straight off on a trek or just finishing one, you’ll have to spend the night in town.

The Durbar and its agreeable surroundings can easily soak up a day, and hikes around the area could keep you busy for another couple.

Gorkha Palace, Nepal © Josephine Billeter/Shutterstock

Phewa Tal, Pokhara’s sparkling lake, is highly valued by Nepalis as a holy site. This is due to its peaceful and gleaming water, which can reflect the entire Annapurna range on its surface during clear and still days. However, such serene and shining bodies of water in the Western Hills are rare and may become rarer in the future.

Among the various activities offered around Pokhara, rowing on Phewa Tal is one of the best things to do in Nepal, as it provides a simple and peaceful way to relax. Unlike many other adrenaline-pumping activities, boating is a serene experience. It is advisable to swim from a boat since the shores are mostly muddy and some hotels and restaurants along Lakeside discharge sewage into the water.

Get a glimpse of heaven as you fly high into the heavenly Nepal skies on a hot air balloon! On this guided journey you will witness spectacular panoramic views of Phewa lake as you ascend and glide through the air.

Pokhara lake, Nepal © danm12/Shutterstock

Kathmandu and Pokhara are spilling over with yoga classes, meditation sessions and retreats, inspired by both the Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Many spiritual centres last only a season or two in Lakeside, and your best bet is to get personal recommendations from people who’ve just come back from a retreat.

Courses can easily be found by checking notice boards or online, and yoga enthusiasts are fairly easily found in Lakeside’s chatty guesthouses and cafés. There’s little doubt that some Lakeside places are fairly commercial, but then that’s true of many yoga centres back home, too. Introductory classes are sometimes free.

If you're looking for a spiritual experience, check out our guide to Nepal yoga retreats: the best places for some R&R or our guide too meditation centres and retreats in Thailand .

Western tourists taking a yoga class in the Himalayas, Everest region, Nepal

The Chitwan National Park boasts over five hundred rhinos, with sightings pretty much guaranteed. The park authorities have felt confident enough to relocate some to Bardia National Park. Tiger conservation has also proved very successful recently, and there are now thought to be significantly more than the 120 tigers counted in the park in 2013.

Altogether, 68 mammalian species are found in the park, including sloth bear, leopard, langur and four kinds of deer. Chitwan is Nepal’s most important sanctuary for birds, with 544 species recorded. The park also has to two types of crocodiles and more than 150 types of butterflies.

Explore the wildlife diversity of Chitwan National Park while you go on a jungle walk, boat in the Rapti river, and Jeep safari. Explore the unexploited trails through the hills in the lap of the Himalayas on this guided Wildlife Jungle Safari .

Rhinoceros grazing in a forest clearing in Nepal’s Chitwan National Park © Shutterstock

The Annapurna Region is a popular destination due to its varied scenery and hill culture, with simple logistics. However, road construction is damaging some trekking routes.

Treks can start or end near Pokhara, which has guesthouses, rental shops, and easy transportation. Short treks with great views are feasible, and tourism is sustainable thanks to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project. But staying on the popular treks means more bottled beer than home-brew with locals.

Experience the great Nepalese outdoors in all its glory with this tailor-made trip to the Taste of Annapurna . Pass through picturesque mountain villages like Ghorepani and soak up a stunning sunrise from Poon Hill. Finally marvel at the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, all with this unique adventure trek!

Trekking in Nepal, Annapurna © Shutterstock

With Chitwan becoming increasingly mass-market, Bardia National Park beckons as an unspoiled alternative. This National Park is northwest of Nepalgunj and the largest area of undisturbed wilderness left in the Terai.

Bordering Bardia to the west is Banke National Park, which was created in 2010 and stretches over 550 square kilometres. Together the two parks now form the biggest Bengal tiger conservation area in Asia and have the highest density of tigers in the world. Tourism has not yet developed at Banke, but may well do so in the future.

With its vibrant culture, rich heritage and diverse nature, Nepal is one of the exotic destinations for travel. If you are on the lookout for just such travel destinations, read our guide to the most exotic places to travel in the world .

Bengal tiger © Shutterstock

For the world’s half a billion Buddhists, Lumbini is where it all began. The Buddha’s birthplace is arguably the single most important historical site in Nepal. The Sacred Garden, where the Buddha was reputedly born, was by all accounts a well-tended grove in his day. Centrepiece of the Sacred Garden, the Maya Devi Temple contains brickwork dating back to 300 BC, making it the oldest known structure in Nepal.

North of the Cultural Centre, the white-and-gold Lumbini Shanti Stupa (Peace Pagoda) soars 41m over the parkland. The impressive monument was finally completed in 2001 by Nippozan Myohoji, a Japanese Buddhist organization that is also responsible for the World Peace Pagoda in Pokhara, as well as around eighty others across the world.

Buddhist temples in Lumbini, with statues illustrating the life of Siddharta © Alessandro Zappalorto/Shutterstock

While Everest isn’t as heavily trekked as Annapurna, its high-altitude environment is even more fragile. Khumbu, with less than four thousand inhabitants, receives anything from ten to twenty thousand trekkers a year, and probably twice as many porters. Lodge-building almost destroyed the Blue Pine and Silver Fir forests around Lukla, and the demand for firewood is many times the regeneration capacity of the area.

Near trekking villages, up to half the juniper shrubs have vanished in smoke. The Sagarmatha National Park, which covers most of Khumbu, has done some fine work in reforestation (funded by the Rs3000 entry fee).

Tengboche Monastery with stupa and mount Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam in Khumbu valley, trek to Everest base camp, Sagarmatha national park © Shutterstock

Now largely absorbed by greater Kathmandu, and easy to reach from the centre of town, Patan was once the capital of a powerful independent kingdom. Today it still maintains a defiantly distinct identity.

Smaller and less monumental than its equivalent in Kathmandu, Patan’s Durbar Square comes across as more refined and less touristy. The formula is, however, similar to that in Kathmandu, with a solemn royal palace looming along one side and assorted temples grouped in the remaining public areas.

The Royal Palace’s northernmost wing, Mani Keshab Narayan Chowk, once served as the palace of another noted seventeenth-century king, Yoganarendra Malla. It was badly damaged in the 1934 earthquake, and was only clumsily rebuilt in the aftermath. With assistance from the Austrian government, however, it was later restored to house the splendid Patan Museum.

Find more useful information for visiting Patan in our first-timer's guide to Patan-Lalitpur .

Where to stay in Patan:

• For traditional atmosphere: Yamba Traditional Home
• For city views: Hotel Timila

Find more accommodation options to stay in Patan

Patan Durbur Square © Shutterstock

Bandipur, once a prosperous centre for garment-making and a trading stop along the India-Tibet route, is now a sleepy town with only a single high street. The town's grand Neoclassical mansions, remnants of its past glories, and stunning views of the Himalayas make it a peaceful and popular tourist destination.

Despite the decline of business due to the eradication of malaria in the Terai and the completion of the Prithvi Highway, tourism is providing a new economic mini-boom with numerous boutique hotels and homestays available.

Here youll find limestone peaks that rear up romantically, as if they’d tumbled out of a Chinese brush painting, and facing breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

Where to stay in Bandipur:

• For price and quality: Bandipur Village Inn
• For stunning views: The Hotel

Find more accommodation options to stay in Bandipur

Bandipur Bazaar, Nepal © Shutterstock

Built on a single stratum of rock, legend has it that Panauti is the safest place in the valley when an earthquake hits. This is the best-preserved Newari town after Bhaktapur, and an enticing place. Panauti is leading a self-sufficient existence in a small valley 7km south of Banepa.

Its centre is a nugget of family dwellings, temples and public meeting houses, all built in signature Newari brick and carved wood; a cluster of riverside temples and ghats lies at the bottom end.

Wedged between the Punyamati and Roshi streams, Panauti forms a triangle, with a serpent (nag) idol standing at each corner to protect against floods. The oldest and most interesting sights are concentrated at the streams’ confluence at the east end of town.

Panauti, Nepal © Shutterstock

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10 Best Places to Visit in Nepal

Whether scaling the slopes of Mt. Everest or paying homage at the birthplace of the Buddha, a trip to Nepal is a top destination for many travelers. Situated along the Himalayan mountain range between China and India in South Asia, the country boasts some of the most diverse landscapes on the planet, from snow-capped mountains to subtropical forests. Nepal’s culture is just as varied, filled with centuries-old temples and shrines, a profusion of colorful festivals and plenty of exotic wares to peruse and purchase.

From adrenaline-filled activities like mountaineering, kayaking and paragliding to serene strolls among medieval temples and hidden palaces, this country offers more memorable travel experiences than can be squeezed into a single visit. An overview of the best places to visit in Nepal:

10. Lumbini [SEE MAP]

Crowds of Buddhist pilgrims are an everyday sight in Lumbini, the traditional birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, Lord Buddha. With archeological finds that date back to around 550 B.C., the legendary site attracts scholars, scientists and curious visitors as well.

It was here that Buddha’s mother, Maya Devi, gave birth near a tree in the garden, which is now a temple bearing her name. Set in the center of a small park designed by Japanese architect Kenzo Tange, the complex also features multiple monasteries, sacred ponds, meditation centers and cultural facilities.

9. Janakpur [SEE MAP]

Located in south-central Nepal on the Terai plains, Janakpur was once the capital of a millennia-old Indian kingdom known as Mithila, and the Maithili culture still thrives here. Hindus believe Janakpur is the place where Lord Ram wed Sita, also known as Janaki, and thousands of Hindus from all over the world flock to the temple of Janaki Mandir each year to celebrate the anniversary of their marriage.

With its three-story construction and 60 rooms, the massive 19th-century marble structure is the largest temple in Nepal. Janakpur is known for the more than 100 sacred pools and ponds scattered around the tranquil city as well.

8. Nagarkot [SEE MAP]

Perfect for travelers who want to experience the beauty and majesty of the Himalayas without arduous physical activity, Nagarkot is best known for the views it offers of the mountains and the Kathmandu Valley. Perched on a high ridge to the northeast of Bhaktapur, the village of around 4,500 inhabitants commands views of eight Himalayan ranges.

There’s a variety of appealing hotels in every price range in Nagarkot, many of which are located within walking distance of the Nagarkot view tower, known as the best place to visit in Nepal to view the sun rising over the Himalayas.

7. Khumbu [SEE MAP]

Each year, the determination to trek to the summit of Mt. Everest brings thousands of adventurous travelers to Khumbu, the Everest Region located in northeastern Nepal. The journey begins at the Lukla airstrip where a clear two-lane trail eventually leads hikers to Everest Base Camp.

Located primarily within the Sagarmatha National Park, Khumbu is home to the Sherpa village of Namche Bazaar where most expeditions to the mountainous peaks are staged. The country’s foremost Buddhist center, the Tengboche Monastery, is located in the Khumbu as well. There’s a variety of comfortable accommodations available at the monastery, many of which offer stunning views of the tallest mountain on the planet.

6. Chitwan National Park [SEE MAP]

One of the best wildlife-viewing destinations in Asia, the Chitwan National Park in south-central Nepal offers needed sanctuary for rare and endangered species like the Bengal tiger and one-horned rhinoceros.

The chance for a close-up look at exotic wildlife, including elephants, leopards, Indian bison, rhinoceros and sloth bears, is the park’s greatest attraction. In addition to jeep tours, visitors can experience the park through jungle treks, elephant rides and canoe rides. Luxury lodging is available at the edge of the park, and the nearby village of Sauraha offers affordable accommodation.

5. Pokhara [SEE MAP]

With its tranquil lakes, verdant shorelines and mountain views, Pokhara is a popular resort destination for travelers from around the world. Known as the gateway to the Annapurna region in northwest Nepal, the lakeside city offers respite to weary hikers, and provides opportunities for outdoor adventures too, ranging from leisurely paddle-boat rides to white-water rafting.

The largest of Pokhara’s three lakes, Phewa Lake is lined with luxury hotels, restaurants, bars and shops. The lake also features an island with a temple dedicated to the goddess Barahi Bhagwati where ceremonies are held nearly every weekend.

4. Patan [SEE MAP]

Situated across the Bagmati River from Kathmandu, Patan is as well known for its artisans as for its stunning display of Newari architecture. Built in the 17th century, the palaces, courtyards and temples of the Patan Durbar are the city’s star attractions.

With its multi-columned façade and gilded spires, the recently restored stone Krishna Temple is particularly striking, as is the recently restored Sundari Chowk, a courtyard with an elaborately carved sunken bath as its centerpiece. Patan is one of the best places in Nepal to buy the gorgeous handmade silk saris that once were the garment of choice for the country’s royalty and aristocracy.

3. Bhaktapur [SEE MAP]

One of three ancient capitals in the Kathmandu Valley, beautifully preserved Bhaktapur experienced a fair share of damage during the 2015 earthquakes. Fortunately, most of the city’s temples and shrines, which are the main attractions in this place known as the City of Devotees, escaped unscathed.

Less crowded and hectic than bustling Kathmandu, Bhaktapur invites leisurely walks through medieval squares, winding streets and pedestrian-only thoroughfares. The city’s Durbar Square, or “noble court,” features a must-see site known as the 55-Window Palace, a 15th-century structure that is now home to the National Art Gallery.

2. Annapurna Circuit [SEE MAP]

The Annapurna Circuit in northwest Nepal offers hikers an outdoor experience nonpareil. Showcasing the varied landscapes of the Annapurna Region, the classic trek leads travelers high into the Himalayas, across plunging gorges, over desert plateaus and through lush subtropical valleys dotted by terraced farms. The trek also passes by many religious sites and quaint villages.

Starting just east of Pokhara, the journey takes about three weeks to complete though many trekkers walk half of it by flying out at Jomsom Airport. There is also the shorter but no less beautiful Annapurna Sanctuary Trek that takes around 8 to 12 days. Its one of the most popular treks in Nepal with lodges and tea stops at hourly intervals or less, until the highest sections at least.

1. Kathmandu [SEE MAP]

The country’s cultural capital, Kathmandu is the place where most adventures in Nepal begin, as all flights from overseas land in the city’s airport. A crowded metropolis of more than 1 million inhabitants, Kathmandu is a chaotic mix of tourist shops, trekking agencies, hotels, restaurants, religious sites and artisan workshops.

The city’s famous Durbar Square is still undergoing restoration after the recent earthquakes, but there are many intact sites well worth exploring. Set atop a forested hill, the ancient Buddhist complex of Swayambhunath is a can’t-miss attraction that offers sweeping views of the Kathmandu Valley. Another popular spot with visitors is the Swapna Bagaicha, also known as the Garden of Dreams. This is a great place if you’re looking for a quiet spot in which to escape the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu.

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Reader interactions.

July 7, 2017 at 1:44 am

One of my best place to visit in Nepal is Pokhara valley.and I suggest all the trek lovers to visit this place once you are in Nepal.It’s like heaven in earth,lots of things are here to do,such as paragliding,bungee,zipline,boating and much more..

February 24, 2017 at 10:38 am

Try Everest Base Camp!

December 23, 2015 at 6:01 pm

Lumbini, don’t think so. Bardia better than CHITWAN

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Top 10 Places to Visit in Nepal and What to Do

• Chitwan National Park

Nepal is a mature tourist destination offering a wide range of activities and sights. You could go on a day trek in the Himalayas, take a flight above Mount Everest, or go on a  jungle safari to see elephants and tigers. If you like exploring ancient relics, then Nepal has ancient Newari, Hindu, and Buddhist sites.

It usually takes a week to fully explore the country. You can easily cover Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan National Park in a week. If you are looking to travel for longer, then visit nearby areas such as Lumbini, Nagarkot, and Bandipur as well.

If you want to take your time exploring Kathmandu, then visiting local bookstores and museums would be a good idea. If you like outdoor activities, then head to Pokhara for adventure sports, such as trekking, paragliding, rafting, bungee jumping, and more.

Quick Facts

• The best combination of cities to visit in Nepal is the Golden Triangle, comprising Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan.
• If you want to learn more about Buddhist culture, a visit to Lumbini is a must. Nagarkot and Kirtipur are good options to extend your trip from Kathmandu.
• Bandipur is a good place to visit if you plan to travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara by land.
• Head to Janakpur to see buildings with Indian architecture and culture.

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1.Kathmandu: World Heritage Sites

Recommended stay: 1–2 days

Kathmandu, with a history dating back nearly 2,000 years, was one of the three imperial cities in the Kathmandu Valley. The once primitive royal Himalayan kingdom has become a collection of ancient Newari culture, sacred Hindu and Buddhist temples, and heritage buildings.

Pashupatinath Temple is one of the largest and most sacred religious sites in Nepal. You will find that both Hindus and Buddhists share this place of worship. The temple is located on the banks of the Bagmati River. On the other side of the riverbank is a cremation ground, where you can meet sadhus or Hindu ascetics.

Do visit the central area of Kathmandu, Durbar Square . Located 11 km (6 miles) from central Kathmandu is Boudhanath Stupa , which is visited by thousands of pilgrims every day. They walk around the central dome, spinning prayer wheels. Finally, climb up the top of Swayambhunath Stupa to watch and capture charming panoramic views of Kathmandu during sunset.

You can also take a walk through Kathmandu, or shop and eat delicious local food in the Thamel area. Don't forget to buy some exquisite handicrafts here.

How to get there: Kathmandu can be your first stop in Nepal.

 2.Bhaktapur: Redbrick City

Recommended stay: 1 day

Bhaktapur is one of the three medieval cities in the Kathmandu Valley, around 12 km (7 miles) from Kathmandu city. It is also a pilgrimage site, with exquisite temples and other religious buildings. Redbrick buildings dot the ancient city.

The Bhaktapur Durbar Square is the most important section of the city and was formerly the home of the royal family of Bhaktapur. There is a palace on the square which was the seat of power of one of the three capitals of Kathmandu Valley in the 15th century. The square has buildings with traditional Newari architecture.

Begin from Durbar Square and walk to Taumadhi Square , which is unique for its beautiful stone and wood carvings. Visit Nyatapola Temple where Goddess Siddhi Lakshmi is enshrined, and the National Museum of Art , which has several collections of different works of art.

A walk around Bhaktapur can be more relaxing and enjoyable than one in Kathmandu! Most tourists like to stay at one of the quaint hotels in the ancient city and explore the city on foot. Travelers highly recommend Hotel Peacock.

How to get there: Bhaktapur is 45 minutes by road from Kathmandu.

3. Patan: Lalitpur

Also known as Lalitpur , Patan is one of the best heritage cities in the Kathmandu Valley. It is a unique city full of exquisite architecture, wood carvings, and religious art, which has earned it the nickname of "the ciy of art".

Patan Durbar Square located in the middle of the heritage area of Patan is an important site. It is the smallest of all the durbar squares in Kathmandu Valley and full of beautiful temples which are located very close to each other.

Patan Museum is one of the best museums in Nepal and is a must-visit spot. It showcases elements of Hindu and Buddhist culture, particularly in the architecture style of buildings and religious monuments. Do visit the Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahavihar), which is adorned in gold and bronze ornaments, the Mahaboudha Temple, with more than 1,000 Buddha statues, and the Rato Machhendranath Temple , where the Hindu god of rain is worshiped.

Several Newari festivals, such as Rato Machhendranath , are held in Patan throughout the year. As the streets are very narrow, it may become very crowded. Have your lunch on the balcony of a restaurant near the square. You can enjoy a good view of the area while staying away from the crowd.

How to get there: It takes 30 minutes by road to reach Patan from Kathmandu.

4.Nagarkot: Postcard Himalayan Town

Recommended stay: 1 day and 1 night

A village only 32 km (19 miles) from Kathmandu city, Nagarkot is a gateway to the Himalayas. You can see eight of the thirteen Himalayas ranges of Nepal from almost anywhere in this beautiful town. Hotels and restaurants are readily available.

Here are the top things to do in the hillside village.

Hike to the Panoramic Deck (12 km / 7 miles) from where you can see the peaks of several Himalayan mountains, including Annapurna Massif, Manaslu, Langtang, Jugal, Everest, Numbur, Ganesh Himal, and Rolwaling Himal. The panoramic view extends from Dhaulagiri to the west and to the nearly invisible peaks of Everest and Kanchenjunga to the east.

There are mountain bikes available at most hotels, which you can use to traverse the Nagarkot Hiking Trail . You can also try paragliding or just relax and unwind.

It is wise to book a hotel on the hill, preferably a room with its balcony facing the Himalayas, so that you can wake up in the dark and just step out of the room to watch the magic of the rising sun. Club Himalaya is the best hotel for this.

How to get there: By road, it takes around 1½ hours from Kathmandu, and 50 minutes from Bhaktapur.

5. Pokhara: Tourist Capital of Nepal

Recommended stay: 2 days

Pokhara is Nepal's tourist capital and the second-largest city in the Himalayan country. It is home to many beautiful historical temples and is a base for several famous hiking trails, such as the Annapurna Circuit, as well as many adventure activities.

Phewa Lake is an iconic spot in Pokhara. One of the most exciting and unforgettable ways to explore the lake and Pokhara is on a hot-air balloon ride from the lake. You will be swept off your feet by the spectacular views of the Himalayas. You can catch several breathtaking sights during sunset. If you are afraid of heights, then you could explore the lake on a boat ride — one of the most popular travel activities here.

Later, you can go rafting on Seti Gandaki River . Paragliding is a good way to see Pokhara from a bird's-eye view. Finally, hike up to Sarangkot Hill, located just on the edge of Pokhara, to see astonishing panoramic views of Pokhara Valley.

Pokhara is not only a tourist city, but it also the home base for popular treks. The Annapurna region is one of the major trekking destinations in the Himalayas. Travelers usually take a flight to Jomsom to reach Annapurna.

How to get there: It takes 30 minutes by air or 8 hours by road from Kathmandu.

6. Chitwan National Park: Wildlife Paradise

It is one of the oldest and best national parks in the Terai region of Nepal. The verdant forests of Chitwan National Park cover 70% of the land. Many wild animals have made their homes in this beautiful park, such as the Bengal tiger, clouded leopard, one-horned rhinoceros, and elephant. The park offers natural landscapes, diverse vegetation, and close encounters with wild animals.

The elephant safari in this park offers a unique experience. You can spot wild animals, such as rhinoceros, rhesus macaque, deer, and more on the safari. If you're not into elephant riding, then take the jeep safari. You can go further to the Gharial Breeding Centre in Kasara and see the crocodiles there.

Another interesting location to visit is the elephant breeding center, where you can see baby elephants. Feeding, washing, or even bathing with elephants in the Rapti River is a wonderful experience. Additionally, you can go boating and canoeing on Rapti River inside the national park.

November to December is an excellent time to visit when the weather is not too hot. There are higher chances of spotting animals at the end of the dry season, running from October to December, when the tigers and other wild animals come to watering holes.

How to get there: It takes 6 hours by land for Kathmandu or Pokhara; 30 minutes flight from Kathmandu to Bharatpur Airport and then another 30 minutes by land

7. Lumbini: Birthplace of Lord Buddha

Located in the Himalayas near the Indian border, the beautiful town of Lumbini is the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama Buddha . It has several ancient pagodas and temples dating back to 2,000 ago. Travelers from all over the world visit Lumbini to learn more about Buddhism and the scriptures, as well as to try activities such as meditation, yoga, and hiking.

Maya Devi Temple is one of the most important and sacred places in the region. It is here that Buddha was born to Queen Mayadevi. Other important nearby attractions include the Bodhi tree , an impressive tree with prayer flags and the Ashoka Stupa, a stone pillar built during the reign of King Ashoka.

Since meditation is an integral part of Buddhism, there are several classes conducted in Lumbini. Travelers interested in learning the art can find many meditation centers in Lumbini.

How to get there: It takes 30 minutes by flight from Kathmandu to Bharatpur Airport and then another 30 minutes by road. Kathmandu to Lumbini by road is a 9-hour journey. Alternatively, you can travel 6 hours by road from Pokhara or Chitwan.

8. Janakpur: City of Ponds

Located in Terai district, Janakpur is also known as the City of Ponds as it has more than 70 ponds dotting its verdant landscape. Janakpur is unique for its fascinating temples.

Janaki Mandir has the largest temple complex in Nepal. It covers an area of more than 440 sq m (4,800 sq ft). The building is made of white marble, with a dome, column, and balcony like a grand palace. There are 60 rooms decorated with intricate lattice windows, stained glass, beautiful paintings, and charming sculptures.

Ram Mandir is another important temple in Janakpur, which highlights the ingenious Nepalese architecture and craftsmanship. Take a short tour of the Janakpur Dham Railway Station , which is the first and only railways operated in Nepal. Do check out the Ganga Sagar and Dhanush Sagar tanks; they are the most sacred ponds in the region.

Janakpur is known to celebrate many festivals throughout the year, but Ram Navami is the most important one. The festivities are held between March and April. It is an ideal time to visit the Ram Mandir, as well as learn more about Hindu festivals.

How to get there: It takes 40 minutes by air and 10 hours by road from Kathmandu to Janakpur.

9. Bandipur: Remarkable Newari Town

Recommended stay: half day

The elegant hilltop town of Newari lies between Pokhara and Kathmandu. One good reason to visit Bandipur? Unlike most of Nepal's mountainous areas, Bandipur retains its ancient cultural attributes — temples, shrines, and Newari style buildings that date back to the ancient Kathmandu Valley.

The bazaar is the town center and full of Newari style old houses. Anytime you stroll through the clean streets, you will see the flowers on the balcony of people's homes. At Thani Mai temple, at the top of Bandipur, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of sunrises and sunsets.

Bandipur is also the ultimate destination in the Annapurna Circuit trek. Many tourists choose to stay here for a night after a long journey. Homestays and old inns can be found everywhere.

How to get there: By road, it takes 3 hours from Pokhara and 5 hours from Kathmandu to reach Bandipur.

10.Kirtipur: Sleepy Town

Located 8 km (5 miles) southwest of Kathmandu, Kirtipur is a sleepy town quieter than other cities in the valley. The city is home to many sacred stupas and has attained a popularity for its authentic experience of Newari culture.

Bagh Bhairab is the most famous temple in Kirtipur. The three-story temple, built in the 16th century, houses the statue of the main deity Lord Bhairav, wooden pillars, and carvings of other Hindu gods and goddesses. The Naya Bazaar, located at the foothills, is a hub for trade and business activities.

Cycling enthusiasts can also cycle to and from Kirtipur.

How to get there: It takes 25 minutes by road from Kathmandu city to reach Kirtipur.

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27 Beautiful Places of Nepal you must Visit

Nepal is one of the most beautiful countries to visit and truly trekkers paradise for trekker enthusiast. No nation can compete with Nepal’s scenic and natural beauty. Lying is South East Asia between China and India, this developing nation holds eccentric natural and scenic beauty, biodiversity in plants and animals and several ethnic groups, cultures, and traditions all inside this small nation. With eight highest mountains in the world, Nepal is a home to hundreds of peaks and beautiful landscapes and rivers and Nepal has been a paradise for adventure seekers offering them ultimate challenges.

Landlocked by geography, Nepal shares an open border with India. The major identification of Nepal in world platform is for the beauty of mountains, culture, and traditions of people and also for friendly hospitality. Some of the beautiful places of Nepal are:

Table of Contents

Lumbini is the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. Born as Siddhartha Gautam in 563 B.C. The distance from Kathmandu to Lumbini is about 230 KM and is reached in a day through a bus or a plane.

Lumbini is a holy land for all the Buddhist followers around the world and one of the most beautiful places of  Nepal. Lumbini is declared a pilgrimage site for people spreading peace and love. There are some of the world’s best stupas and monasteries in Lumbini area. The eternal flame is also located in Lumbini.

The great Emperor Ashoka, when visited Lumbini built a pillar where Mayadevi, Buddha’s mother gave birth. The pillar is named in honor of Ashoka and still stands firm near the palace.

Everest Base Camp

Everest Base Camp is the gateway to the tallest peak of the World, Mount Everest. The base camp is situated at the height of 5,380 meters high up in the Himalayas; the base camp provides a thrilling experience and spectacular view of Everest.

It’s not the base camp but the journey to basecamp that will blow your mind away. The trek to Base Camp passes through exceptional viewpoint such as Kalapatthar at 5,643 meters, considered the best place on earth for watching Everest.

The trek passes through the Khumbu region, and neighboring mountains of Everest is also seen along the way. Everest Base Camp is one of the most sought out destinations in the world and only the people who have reached the camp know how it feels to be under the existing roof of Asia. Undoubtedly, the Everest base camp is among the most Beautiful places in Nepal

Tilicho Lake

Tilicho lake is considered as one of the most beautiful high altitude lakes in the World. Situated at the height of 4,919 meters, it lies in the Annapurna range of mountains. The lake lies in Manang district. The route to the lake is tremendously difficult as trekkers require to climb down a rocky mountain without any support sideways. The trek to Tilicho lake is completed in one day from the Tilicho Base Camp.

Rara lake is the biggest freshwater lake in Nepal and the most beautiful one too. It is located inside Rara National Park and falls in Mugu district. Trekkers describe Rara as ”a shimmering blue jewel set in a ring of snowy peaks.”

Rara lake lies in an altitude of 2,990 meters above sea level, and the lake surface is 4.2 square miles.

Rara, as surrounded by Rara National Park is abundant with rare birds and animals. The park is also a major bird watching site as the part hosts about 214 species of birds and falls on the list of 50 beautiful places of Nepal. You have to visit the lake to see why Rara Lake is considered as a beautiful place in Nepal.

Muktinath is one of the most visited shrines in Nepal. Muktinath is located at an altitude of 3,710 meters at the foot of Thorong La Pass in Mustang, Nepal. The temple is widely sought out the temple in the world, mainly because it holds significant religious values to two religions, Hinduism and Buddhism.

Access to Muktinath is difficult. Weather conditions are anything but perfect with rapid winds and uneven roads. The best way to travel to this holy temple is to fly to Jomsom from Nepalgunj in the plane and then take a jeep or trek to the temple.

Khaptad National Park

Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve

Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is the only Hunting reserve in Nepal opened in 1987. Tourists are allowed to hunt specified animals in the region. The park was primarily established to cater the needs of sports hunting and the conservation of temperate, subalpine and alpine ecosystems of western Nepal.  

Some events allow hunting of game animals like Leopard, Goral, Serow, Barking Deer, Wild boar, and Himalayan Black Bear. Currently, Bluesheep and Himalayan Tahr are the only animals that are allowed for hunting in the Reserve.

Tengboche Monastery

Tengboche Monastery is also called Dawa Choling Gompa, located at Tengboche Village in Khumjung Nepal. The monastery lies in Khumbu region of Eastern Nepal. Tengboche Monastery is the largest monastery in the Khumbu Region.

The monastery and is its surrounding area is full of spiritual energy and positive vibes, thus falls under one of the beautiful places of Nepal. The monastery lies in Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and grants a panoramic view of Himalayan Mountains. The ten monastery trail of Khumbu is the main attraction of this region for trekkers and religious tourists. The Tengboche Monastery , built by Lama Gulu in 1916 bears daughter resemblance with Rongbuk Monastery in Tibet.

The earthquake of 1934 destroyed the monastery with the founder Lama Gulu. The fire also damaged the monastery in 1989. The monastery was built with the help of volunteers and donations from all over the world.

Annapurna Base Camp

Annapurna Base Camp is the home to Annapurna Range. The massif is 55 km long and hosts many snow-capped peaks. Annapurna Base Camp and the trek itself is a joyous ride through these mountains. Annapurna Base Camp lies in Annapurna Conservation Area, a protected area with an area of 7,629 sq. Km. The only mountain of the area above 8000 meters, Annapurna I has a 38 percent fatality-to-summit ratio, a ratio even higher than that of Mount Everest.

Annapurna Base Camp is a beautiful place in Nepal regarding trekking route, scenic beauty, enjoyment, and experience. Annapurna Base Camp is becoming a popular trek option amidst tourists and domestic people too. The increase in the number of visitors in the area also led to start Conservation Project with the objective to limit outsiders, gathering of firewood, and domestic animal grazing in the protected area.

The trek to Base Camp passes through amazing views of Machapuchare Mountain, the fishtail mountain and also pass traditional Gurung villages, who are the residents of the area.

Chitwan National Park

Chitwan National Park is the first national park of Nepal, established in 1973 and attained World Heritage Site status in 1984. The park covers an area of 932 Km. And is located in sub-tropical lowlands of a Terai region of south-west Nepal. The altitude falls between 100 meters and 815 meters. The National park lies in Churia Hills an and wetlands below the hills.

The lake freezes for six months in winter. Gosaikunda holds religious importance to Hindus. The lake falls under the Langtang Trek route. Langtang Valley also adjourns on the Gosaikinda trek.

Bardia National Park

Bardia National Park is the home of the Bengal Tiger. The park houses more than 60 Bengal Tigers and is also considered a Tiger Conservation Unit. Bardia National Park is the largest national park of Terai region of Nepal and the most undisturbed one too. There are no civil settlements inside the park. The previous settlement was resettled outside the park solely to preserve the park without human interference.

Bardia National Park lies in SouthWest Nepal in the Terai Region. Bardia National Park covers an area of 968 Km. Sq and is best for experiencing the natural wilderness of forest in Nepal. Walking Safari, Elephant Back Ride, Bird Watching, and Fishing is most tried out activity by tourists in Bardia National Park . Some endangered animals in the park are Bengal Tigers, One-Horned Rhinoceros,  and the Bengal Florican.

Poon Hill lies 400 meters above Ghorepani and is very snowy in the winter season. Clouds block the view after 10 am, and continuous snow and clouds block the view of mountains. The summer season is the best time to travel to Poonhill. There are no lodges or tea house in Poon Hill , and necessary equipment should be carried from Ghorepani. The sunrise from Poon Hill is considered one of the best in Nepal seen from the hilly region. The viewing hill is among the beautiful places of Nepal.

Langtang National Park

  The first Himalayan National Park, Langtang National Park is an ICUN category II national park with area coverage of 1,710 km. The beautiful and sacred Gosaikunda also falls inside the park. Langtang Lirung with a summit at altitude 7,245 meters is the highest mountain inside the park.

Renowned Buddhist Monastery, Kyanjin Gompa also lies just above Langtang. About 4,500 people live inside the national park, and most of them are Tamang ethnic groups. The park is recognized as popular trekking route, white-water rafting and climbing site. The park also homes the endangered Rhesus Monkeys and Red Pandas.

Phoksundo Lake

Shuklaphanta National Park

Shuklaphanta National Park is renowned for hosting the largest congregation of swamp deers in the world. The vast grasslands and wetlands inside the park is an ideal location for swamp deers. The park covers 305 sq. km of area. Shuklaphanta National Park has 700 species of flora and almost half the area of the park is covered in grassland. The forests are dominant with Sal trees and Khair and Sissoo also grow alongside rivers.

The park also hosts a wide variety of fauna. Shuklaphanta park includes 46 mammals species among which 18 are under CITES protection lists such as the Bengal Tiger, Indian Leopard, Swamp deer, Sloth Bear and Hispid Hare. One horn rhinoceros were brought from Chitwan National Park to establish a new viable population of the species in the country. There are more than 2000 deers in the park.

Shuklaphanta consists of 423 species of birds and has the highest number of Bengal Floricans. The park wetlands home 28 fish species and 12 reptile and amphibian species. Some of these include Rohu and Masheer, Mugger Crocodile, Monitor Lizard, Indian Rock Python, Indian Cobra and Oriental rat snake.  

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Kathmandu Durbar Square is one of three royal palaces inside Kathmandu Valley. Dubbed as the home of the Newars, Kathmandu   Durbar Square situates at the heart of Kathmandu . Several heritage sites collapsed in the earthquake on 25 th April 2015 and are in the reconstruction process.

This Durbar Square is considered among the most beautiful places of Nepal. The living goddess “Kumari” also lives inside the Durbar square. Some of the important crafts and temples of the Durbar square are Hanuman-Dhoka Durbar, Taleju Temple, Kasthamandap, Nine-floor Durbar and stone craft of Kal Bhairav.

Time to time, the temples and buildings have gone renovations caused because of natural disasters. The durbars were the home of Malla and Shah rulers of Ancient Nepal.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

This Durbar Square is also considered one of the most beautiful places of Nepal. Some of other most visited places of Bhadgaon durbar square are Golden Gate, Bhairav Nath Temple, Vatsala temple and the statue of Bhupatindra Malla.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square also suffered major damages in the earthquake of 2015.

Patan Durbar Square

Patan Durbar Square is amidst the most beautiful places of Nepal. The major structures in the Patan Durbar Square are Krishna Mandir. Krishna Mandir is a major attraction during Krishna Jayanti. Major followers all over Nepal and India visit this temple on that day. Some other renowned structures are Bhimsen Temple, Vishwanath Temple, and Taleju Bhawani. Lalitpur Durbar Square is also famous for its Museum. Patan Durbar Square also suffered damages in the Earthquake but not as significant as Kathmandu Durbar Square and Bhaktapur Durbar Square. The weakened structures are either being mended or given support using bars.

Boudhanath Temple

Another beautiful place of Nepal is Boudhanath,  a stupa located 11 kilometers on northern outskirts of Kathmandu. The spherical dome and massive mandala make the stupa one of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal. In 1979, the stupa made it to the UNESCO World Heritage site. The stupa is one of the most visited sites in Kathmandu Valley. The stupa is vividly apparent from the sky with its massive area span and a large dome.

It is also said the stupa entomb the remains of Kassapa Buddha.

The Boudhanath stupa sustained massive damage from the 2015 earthquake, and the spire and the dome itself cracked severely. The reconstruction of the stupa began in November 2015 and completed with a modern touch. There is provision for lighting the domes in the night that makes the stupa even more beautiful.

Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)

  Legend says Swyambhunath originated from a lotus that bloomed in a lake, that was Kathmandu valley itself. The stupa bears high importance to Buddhist followers. The stupa locates in the northwest of Kathmandu Valley on a small hill. The view of Kathmandu Valley is seen from Swayambhunath. The Swayambhu area is also another UNESCO site inside Kathmandu Valley. The stupa is a sight to behold and undoubtedly among beautiful places of Nepal.

The stupa areas consist varieties of shrines and temples dating back to Licchavi Period. A Tibetan Monastery, Library, and a museum are some recent additions in the area. Swayambhunath is the symbol of peace, harmony, and enlightenment. Its eye is supposed to watch over the entire world, which is represented by its dome. Swayambhunath is the pinnacle destination of Buddhism followers and is visited by thousands of people from all over the world.

Pashupatinath

The earthquake of 2015 left the main temple area untouched, but other outer shrines and monuments were quite damaged.

Nagarkot is a tourist city in Bhaktapur District popular as a destination to having a glance of beautiful sunrise and sunset from the view tower. Nagarkot is also famous for viewing the Himalaya range. The Everest views from the top of Nagarkot along with other many mountains like Annapurna Range, Manaslu range, Ganesh Himal Range, Langtang Range and views of Shivapuri National Park. Nagarkot also offers a panoramic view of Kathmandu Valley. It is one of the most visited places by tourists in Nepal. Nagarkot lies 28 km away from Kathmandu Airport and sits at the altitude of 2,195 meters.

Nagarkot also provides hiking and cycling opportunity . There is a hiking trail till Nagarkot. Otherwise, cycling up the hills to reach the tourist destination is also an alternative option to reach Nagarkot.

Illam Tea Area

  Illam is the tea house of Nepal. The tea produced here is exported all over the world. The teal of Illam has an excellent reputation and market image in foreign countries. Tourists visit Illam Tea Garden because the view of the tea garden is breathtaking. The scene of entire hills covered in tea leaves and greenery till the horizon attracts quite a high number of tourists.

The Illam Tea area also has a famous hill called “Love Dada.” The place lies in a place called Kanyam and is also renowned for Horse Riding. The location is called Love Dada because the tea garden seen from the top of the hill forms a giant heart shape, thus named hill of love.

Upper Mustang

  Upper Mustang , often called the Forbidden Kingdom is an isolated region in the Himalayas of Nepal. The place is called forbidden kingdom since it was restricted to foreigners till 1992 and is one of the most preserved locations in the world. The region follows Tibetan culture, traditions, and also speak the Tibetan language.

Upper Mustang trek bases on an ancient salt trading route used by Caravans. The kingdom of Mustang, Lo named Lo Manthang as the capital of the Kingdom. Lo Manthang is currently the capital of Mustang and is one of the major highlights of the trek.

The trek sees numerous human-made and natural caves, unseen geographical gorges, and hills and all the ancient monasteries, houses, and artifacts preserved since ancient times.

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

  Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is a protected area in southeast Nepal covering area of 175 sq. Km. The reserve established in 1976 covers wetlands, freshwater marshes, and lies along the SaptaKoshi River. Koshi Tappu is one of the major bird watching areas of Nepal. The reserve hosts rare mammals like Asian Elephant, Spotted deer, Hog Deer, Wild Boar, Golden Jackal and Smooth-Coater Otter. The Ganga river dolphin is also seen sometimes in the Reserve. The last 150 remaining water-buffalo inhibit the area along with Gaur and Blue Bull.

The reserve hosts 481 bird species, and most notable ones are Water cock, Dusky Eagle owl, black-headed cuckoo-shrike, striated grass bird, common-golden eye and gull-billed tern. People loving birds consider Koshi Tappu a paradise for bird watching.

Nepal also has many other beautiful places that are explored extensively and some not so much. There is a natural beauty, diversity in flora and fauna, several animal species because of the altitude differences and topology variations. Nepal is a place where visiting once is not enough. Even if you dedicate your life in visiting Beautiful places of  Nepal only, one life won’t be enough to visit all the places of scenic and artificial beauty of Nepal.

Janakpur is a religious and cultural city basking in early Mithila culture. Janakpur was called Janakpurdham during the Videha Dynasty of Mithila region. The Mithila traditions are famous for their Mithila paintings. There are wall paintings all over the city. People draw these paintings on their wall of houses, streets and also on various objects.

Janakpur is a beautiful place in Nepal regarding culture, traditions, and history. Janakpur’s main attraction point is Janaki Mandir. This place hosted the marriage between Ram and Sita, the main characters of Sanskrit Epics Mahabharata. Sita was the daughter of the King of Janakpur and Ram was the son of Dashrath, King of Ayodhya.

The holy city, Janakpur is also famous for its festivals. The notable festivals to be part of in Janakpur is Rama Navami, the birthday of Lord Rama, Chhath Puja, Holi (festival of colors) and Vivah Panchami, where the wedding of Rama and Sita is celebrated by decorating the Vivah Mandap of Janaki Mandir.

Related Blog

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Best Places to Visit in Nepal

Are you looking for the best places to visit in Nepal?

Start with the breathtaking Himalayas, that’s what Nepal is well-known for.

Nepal is relatively a small country yet, there is so much to explore in this beautiful tiny country. You can explore the diverse culture and unique architecture of this beautiful country.

Nepal is also known for its wild landscapes, golden temples, and charming hill villages. The beautiful view of mountains, pristine natural beauty make Nepal one of the world’s great travel destinations.

Some of the Best Places to Visit in Nepal

Kathmandu – a city of the living goddess.

Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal and one of the Best Places to Visit in Nepal. It has an incredibly diverse Hindu and Buddhist religious sites. It is one of the hustle and bustle metropolitan cities, yet, it is among the best places to visit in Nepal. But still, it has retained its ancient traditions, cultures, and religious sites.

This city is purely blessed by the living goddess Kumari and enriched by endless religious festivals and cultural events.

Kathmandu is more than just a city. It is also a living museum where you get an opportunity to relive in the history of Nepal.

Places to Visit in Kathmandu

• Kathmandu Durbar Square – Explore the medieval temples and visit Kumari Ghar. You can get a glimpse of the little goddess, Kumari.
• Thamel – The most happening place Thamel is a must-visit. Here, you can find everything you want. There are a variety of antique shops, trekking gears, bookstores, boutique cafes, clothing stores, and so on. It is only the place where you can experience the night-life.
• The Boudhanath Stupa – The largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal. It is one of the most sacred places for Buddhists.
• The Swayambhunath Temple – This temple is the major landmarks of Kathmandu city which is also known as Monkey Temple. This holy place flaunts the white stupa with fascinating buddha eyes.
• The Pashupatinath Temple – It is a most sacred place for Hindu devotees. The main temple is purely dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Patan – It is one of the oldest towns in the valley. You can encounter the beautiful temples, palaces, and monuments. It is nothing less than an architectural treasure.
• Bhaktapur – It is a well-preserved monumental area within Kathmandu valley. Here, you can find numerous temples like Changu Narayan Temple, Nyatapola, Bhairavnath Temple, and so on.
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Pokhara – A Paradise City

A Nepal tour is incomplete without a visit to the beautiful city, Pokhara.

Pokhara is a beautiful city, surrounded by hills, mountains, and famous landmarks like Begnas and Fewa lake. This city is also known as “ City of Seven Lakes”. This place is truly a heaven on earth.

The major attraction of this place is the Fewa lake surrounded by the panoramic view of Himalayan peaks that reflects in this lake. You can enjoy boating or simply relax at the lakes near the city with the stunning Annapurna mountain at the backdrop.

Pokhara is also for adventure seekers who want to experience life to the fullest. In this city, you can experience everything from paragliding to ultralight flying, skydiving to zip lining.

Pokhara is a starting point for the various trekking trail and expeditions in the Annapurna region. That’s why many travelers choose to stay in Pokhara for relaxation before they head out to the trek.

Places to Visit in Pokhara

• Fewa Lake: Fewa lake is one the main attraction for all the travelers. There is the Barahi Temple in the middle of the lake. You can visit the temple and take a boating experience on this lake.
• Begnas Lake: Enjoy the pristine natural beauty of this lake, all encircled by Himalayan peaks. You can indulge in boating, fishing, and swimming.
• World Peace Stupa: One of the popular hiking destination in Pokhara. You will get a spectacular view of Annapurna mountains and Pokhara valley from the top of the hill.
• Sarangkot: You can enjoy short hiking to Sarangkot. From here, you will get the amazing view of Mt Annapurna, Mt Dhaulagiri, Mt Machhapuchhre, and so on. And also do not miss the Sarangkot sunrise view. It will be one of the best experiences of your life.
• Mahendra Cave: This cave is rich with different types of rocks and glittering stones. The artificial lighting systems are all fitted to illuminate this natural tunnel cave. You will see a statue of Lord Shiva in the middle of this cave.
• Bat’s Cave: This cave is home to more than 15,000 different species of bat. The entrance to this cave is narrow but the inner part is wide enough. The inner part of the cave is all carved with various images of elephant tusks, gods, and goddesses.
• Davie’s Fall: Davie’s fall is an area known for its beauty and tranquillity. The best time to visit this place is during monsoon season as the volume of water increases significantly.
• International Mountain Museum: Here, you can learn about the history of the mountains. You can also do a lot of mountaineering activities. You can also find some of the hidden mysteries related to Mount Everest.

4 Chitwan – Experience Natural Nepal

If you are a nature lover, then Chitwan is a perfect place for you. It has rich flora and fauna.

Chitwan receives more than 200,000 visitors per year from around the world. This National Park is a World Heritage Site registered by UNESCO.

The main attraction of this place is Chitwan National Park. Chitwan national park is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Nepal.

The dense forest and grasslands are homes to rare animals like Bengal tigers, one-horn Rhino, and other exotic birds.

You can also explore the rich culture and history of Chitwan, rather than just a nature to enjoy.

Places to visit in Chitwan

Chitwan National Park: Exploring the community forest, jungle safaris are the most popular things to do here. Besides this, you can also encounter the lifestyle and culture of local ethnic groups like Tharu, Bate, and Majhi.

Ranipokhari: This is the newest destination in Chitwan where you can indulge in boating as well. This place is also famous for the picnic.

Bis Hazari Taal : The meaning of Bishazari Taal is 20 Thousand Lake. This place is home to many animals like deer, rhino, and tiger. This area also serves as an excellent bird watching center.

Jalbire Waterfall : This waterfall is also known as Lamo Jharana. Filled with flat grasslands and a panoramic view of green hills adds up more beauty to this waterfall. Jalbire Waterfall is also renowned for one of the best Canyoning in Nepal

Chiraichuli Hill: It is one of the new destinations to visit in Chitwan. It is above 946 meters height and an excellent place for the sunrise view.

Lumbini – The Birthplace of Lord Buddha

Lumbini is the place where queen Maya Devi gave birth to Siddhartha Gautam – Gautam Buddha.

UNESCO enlisted the Lumbini as a world heritage sites as it represents the Buddhist history and culture. There are many inscriptions and evidence of Lumbini being the birthplace of Lord Buddha.

This place is purely blessed by the various holy sites and shrines which represent the various stages of Buddha’s life.

You can find varieties of remarkable stupas, monasteries built by Buddhist nations from across the world.

Places to visit in Lumbini

• Maya Devi Temple: It is the most important temple of Lumbini which marks the spot where Lord Buddha was born. Later, this temple was re-built in a white building to protect the exact spot of Buddha’s birth, denoted by a marker stone.
• World Peace Pagoda: This pagoda has a golden statue of Lord Buddha which depicts the position of Buddha when he was born. This pagoda is one of the world’s greatest stupas, constructed by the Japanese at the cost of US 1 million dollars.
• Lumbini Museum: Lumbini museum is the holy site devoted to the life of Buddha. You can see a different collection of photos and artifacts from Buddhist sites around the world.
• Myanmar Golden Temple: It is one of the oldest structures in the compound. It has three prayer halls in the Myanmar Golden Temple.

Besides this, there are other temples including China temple, Korean temple, and so on.

Apart from these beautiful cities and towns, you can also explore Nepal to a different level. You can get on to the off-beaten track of Nepal to experience the wild landscapes and majestic high Himalayas. You can explore the true colors of Nepal with unspoiled flora and fauna and spectacular mountain views. Plus, the diverse cultures and charming small villages add to your joy.

Everest Base Camp – A Must Visit Destination of Nepal

A trek to Everest Base Camp will take you to the lap of the highest peak of the world – Mount Everest. You can encounter the breathtaking views of Mt Everest and its neighboring peaks.

It is an epic journey where you’ll trek all the way through rhododendron forests and snowy land. You can get a glimpse of beautiful Sherpa villages, monasteries, and prayer flags throughout the Everest region.

Nothing beats the thrill of this journey and the grace of astonishing mountains up close. Thus, a journey to Everest Base Camp is worthwhile.

Annapurna Region – A Beautiful Region of Nepal

Annapurna region is one of the popular trekking trails in Nepal. There are many amazing treks to this region which offers you the beautiful scenery of mountains and lowland villages.

Annapurna Region in Nepal is hugely dominated with the scenery of the top mountains such as:

Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Nilgiri, Tukche Peak, and many more.

While trekking to this region, you can see spectacular mountain views and fertile farmland. Alongside you will encounter diverse ethnic communities, cultures, and lifestyles.

Langtang Valley – Travel Hidden Nepal

Langtang valley is truly a gem of the Himalayan country, Nepal. It has more than 70 glaciers varied in size. So, this valley is also called the “valley of glaciers”.

A trek to Langtang valley offers you a spectacular view of mountains, splendid nature, and scenic landscapes. You can also experience the wonderful cultures of the native Tamangs.

Langtang valley lies in the Langtang National Park which is the second largest national park in Nepal. This area has diverse flora and fauna and also home to many rare animals and exotic birds.

Rara Lake – Most Beautiful Lake in Nepal

Rara lake is the largest and deepest freshwater lake, situated in the far western region of Nepal.

The Rara lake, nestled in Rara national park is completely untouched by urbanization. The rich flora and fauna of this park add beauty to this lake. This national park is also home to many endangered species of animals.

The route to Rara lake is quite rough but at the same time, it offers you the beautiful view of lakes, mountains, and hills.

Gosaikunda Lake – Religious Destination of Nepal

Gosaikunda lake is a holy lake and one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in Nepal.

This lake remains frozen for six months in winter and the ice from the lake melts down to form Trishuli River. During Janai Purnima, a large number of Hindu devotees come to take a holy bath in the river.

On the way to this trail, you can see beautiful views of mountains and the numerous small and big lakes. Thus, this lake holds a significant religious value-adding to the religious and natural heritage of the country.

Tilicho Lake – The World’s Highest Lake

Tilicho lake, located in Manang district, is the lake at the highest altitude in the world.

The trek to Tilicho lake offers you some majestic panoramic view, a great variety of cultures, and the finest deep valleys. And you will get the views of the high mountains encircling the giant Annapurna Himal.

The place is rich with a wide range of people and terrain. Thus, trekking to Tilicho Lake grants you a wonderful experience of beautiful views along with the diversity of people.

The trekking leads down to the Muktinath temple which is highly important from a religious point of view and has its own sort of beauty.

The trip to Tilicho Lake is a perfect place to witness natural scenery and learn about the unique culture.

What to See while Traveling in Nepal?

High mountains.

If you want to see spectacular mountains, then visit Nepal and experience trekking to the astonishing high Himalayas.

Nepal is home to 8 of the world’s 14 mountains over 8,000 meters. The beautiful eight high mountains include:

• Mount Everest (8,848 meters)
• Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters)
• Lhotse (8,516 meters)
• Makalu (8,463 meters)
• Cho Oyu (8,201 meters)
• Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters)
• Manaslu ( 8,156 meters)
• Annapurna (8,091 meters)

The mountains of Nepal have always held a mysterious charm. Their allure has captivated many people and has made heroes. Some of them have disappeared in their quest and moment of glory.

You can trek to Everest region , Annapurna region , Langtang Valley to see breathtaking mountain scenery.

Cultural Heritage Sites

Nepal has the highest number of heritage sites recognized by UNESCO as world heritage sites.

The eight different places of Nepal are on the list of UNESCO world heritage sites. Out of eight, seven of them are in the Kathmandu valley and one is in Lumbini.

Following are the eight world cultural heritage sites of Nepal

• Kathmandu Durbar Square
• Bhaktapur Durbar Square
• Patan Durbar Square
• Boudhanath Stupa
• Swayambhunath Stupa
• Pashupatinath Temple
• Changu Narayan Temple

The heritage sites of Nepal is a splendid example of art, architecture, and culture.

Most of the travelers prefer to see Nepal’s cultural heritage sites. You can explore many Hindu temples along with Tibetan Buddhist pilgrims, stupas, and monasteries.

Jungle Adventures

Jungle wildlife tours are an amazing adventure trip in Nepal. It offers you the chance to enter the jungle and view some of the most endangered wildlife on earth. So, the dense forests of Terai could be the best places to visit in Nepal.

Usually, the Jungle safari tour lies in the southern lowlands of Nepal-Terai. This area is fully covered in dense tropical jungles and is home to thousands of bird and animal species.

Nepal has several places for jungle safari tours. Some of the popular destinations for safari tours are:

• Chitwan National Park
• Bardia National Park
• Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

You can experience elephant riding, jungle safari, bird watching, and recreational activities. In Nepal, you will discover the stunning view of the jungle, fascinating wildlife, and exotic birds.

Final Words

Nepal is a small country, yet, it has a lot of popular destinations to visit. You will get a number of options while choosing the best places to visit in Nepal. The diversity in nature and a variety of exotic culture makes Nepal a most popular destination.

In addition to this, there is an innumerable list of places in Nepal that you can visit and explore the beauty of Nepal.

Whether trekking to Mt. Everest or visiting the birthplace of the Buddha, a trip to Nepal is a top destination for many travelers.

For further information and queries, feel free to contact us .

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Must Visit Places In Nepal

Pashupatinath temple.

Chandragiri

Janaki Temple

The Boudhanath Stupa

Full Day Sightseeing in Kathmandu

Famed as the only metropolis of the Himalayan region, this place is visited by quite a lot of travellers. This is not only the largest city of Nepal but also one of the serene sites. Places like the Swayambhunath Stupa, Hanuman Dhoka Square, and several others mark the tourism count of the city. To make the best of your holidays here, you must not miss out on the Kathmandu sightseeing packages, as they cover most of the destinations. With places like Hanuman Dhoka Square, you can take a deep look into the history of the place and if you are more into the tranquil setting then it boasts with a remarkable range of peaceful temples.

Mount Annapurna

Chitwan National Park

Langtang National Park

Swayambhunath Temple

Mt. Everest

Trisuli River

Bhote Kosi River

Davis Falls

Sagarmatha National Park

Patan Durbar Square

Khumbu Valley

Best of Sri Lanka

White Monastery

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Mount Manaslu

Shashwat Dham

Places to Visit in Kathmandu

Durbar square.

Budhanilkantha

Hanuman Dhoka

Narayanhiti Palace Museum

Kumari Ghar

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Kasthamandap

Garden Of Dreams

Places to visit in Pokhara

Mahendra caves.

Chamere Gufa

Rupa Tal Lake

Begnas Lake

Pokhara Shanti Stupa

International Mountain Museum

Places to Visit in Lumbini

Maya devi temple.

Best of Cambodia

World Peace Pagoda

Perched at 1,100-meter above sea level, World Peace Pagoda is a famous Buddhist monument on a hilltop in Pumdi Bhumdi, Lumbini. It reflects as a symbol of peace offering a stunning panorama of Annapurna range, Phewa Lake, and Pokhara town. The pagoda reflects four different stages of the Buddha's life in four directions like his birth, enlightenment in Bodhgaya, teachings in Sarnath, and Nirvana at Kushi Nagar. It is indeed one of the most impressive places to see in Nepal to experience harmony and serenity. Location:  Lumbini Sanskritik 32914, Nepal Timings: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm

Royal Thai Monastery

Sri Lankan Monastery

Myanmar Golden Temple

Lumbini Crane Sanctuary

Other Places To Visit in Nepal

Khawalung Monastery

Best of Bhutan

ShivaPuri Nagarjun National Park

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If you are a true mountaineer, you can’t miss the chance to be a part of this expedition. Due to high level of precipitation the peaks of Kanchenjunga is mostly glaciated. You can simple enjoy an epic scenery which is truly going to leave you jaw dropped.  Highlights: Preservation of the rich flora and fauna is also important and you will get to witness them too during trekking. It is difficult to comprehend the scale of both valleys and mountains here. Difficulty Level – High. Best time to visit: October and November. Prices: USD$985 per person.

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Best 36 Places To Visit In Nepal That Should Be In Your Itinerary

Nepal, a country nestled in the Asian continent along the southern slope of mighty Himalayan Ranges attracts many tourists throughout the year. People travel to Nepal to witness its diverse landscape, try out thrilling adventures and experience the warmth and vibrancy of its rich culture. From honeymooners to nature lovers and adventurers to devotees, everyone gets recharged and feel lively again as soon as they step in Nepal. There are so many amazing tourist places in Nepal that you will fall short of time. We have curated this list of best places to visit in Nepal to help you plan your trip and enjoy a happening time here. From mighty Himalayan ranges to iconic Mount Everest and national parks to calm monasteries, Nepal offers a divine experience to tourists from all walks of life.

Top 36 Tourist Attractions In Nepal

Nepal, a country dotted with stunning and mighty mountain ranges is also home to a number of monasteries, museums and other cultural attractions. With its bustling cities and thrilling adventures, Nepal makes up for the perfect holiday destination for history buffs, adventure freaks and nature lovers. Stroll through this article to know which are some of the best cities in Nepal and their major attractions.

One of the best cities to visit in Nepal is Kathmandu, the capital of the country and also a place that is serene and bustling at the same time. It is here where you will be able to witness the true culture and authentic traditions of Nepal. The colorful monasteries and the mountainous ranges in the backdrop make Kathmandu a beautiful city to explore. Nestled at a height of approx. 4600 feet, Kathmandu promises surreal views and pleasant weather all year round.

Best Time to Visit Kathmandu: September to November

How to Reach Kathmandu: The best way to reach Kathmandu is by taking a flight to Tribhuvan International Airport which is located at a 20 to 25 minutes' drive from the city center.

Activities to Enjoy: Sightseeing, Everest Mountain Flight, Shopping

Let’s see which are some of the best places to visit in Kathmandu :

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1. Kathmandu Durbar Square

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kathmandu Durbar Square is one of the best historical places in Kathmandu . Boasting of Nepal’s traditional architecture and the rich history, Kathmandu Square tells about the Royal kings of Nepal who ruled the country for years. The square also houses the main entrance to the courtyard known as Hanuman Dhoka that houses the Royal Palace. To the south of the square is the Basantpur Square which used to be the stable for royal elephants but has now been replaced with shops selling traditional souvenirs.

Entry Fee: For foreign visitors: Approx. $8.51 per head; for SAARC Nationals: $1.28 per head; Free for Nepalese

Timings: The square is open 24 hours but the Hanuman Dhoka Palace Museum timings are 09:00 am to 05:00 pm

2. Boudhanath Stupa

Another UNESCO World Heritage site in Kathmandu, the Boudhanath Stupa offers calm and tranquil environs to people who are seeking serenity. It is a must-visit and of the best places to visit in Nepal . The stupa holds great importance in Buddhism and each of the different shapes of the structure depicts the five different elements which are fire, water, air, Earth and sphere. This 36-meter-high stupa with white dome dominates the skyline of Kathmandu and gives positive vibes to everyone who takes a stroll around this place.

Entry Fee: for foreign tourists: Approx. $3.40, SAARC country nationals: Approx. $0.85

Timings: Open 24 hours

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3. Pashupatinath Temple

Not just the stupas and the monasteries, there are various Hindu holy shrines as well which are one of the most famous tourist places in Nepal like Pashupatinath Temple which dedicated to the deity of Lord Shiva. The temple is located in a scenic location on the banks of Bagmati River on the eastern side of Kathmandu. It attracts thousands of devotees who come here to witness one of the Jyotirlingas which is the head of the body. Pashupatinath Temple in Nepal was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the year 1979. The whole temple complex has various deities, images, ashrams and inscriptions related to Hindu mythology.

Entry Fee: Approx. $8.51 for foreign visitors and SAARC nationals; free for Indians and Nepalese

Timings: 4:00 am to 12:00 pm and 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm

One of the most vibrant places in Kathmandu and a famous spot for shopping and nightlife is Thamel. Brimmed with myriad shops, hotels and restaurants, Thamel is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kathmandu to enjoy the local culture and cuisine of Nepal. One can buy traditional Nepalese clothes and other souvenirs from here. Thamel remains crowded almost throughout the year as it is visited by both tourists and locals alike. The street has over 100s of eateries where different cuisines are sold. The entry to this market is free and it is open 24 hours which is why is always bustled with people whether in a day or during the night.

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: 24 Hours

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The famous tourist places in Kathmandu will definitely make your vacation in Nepal. But have you ever thought of exploring the scenic side of this country? One of the most picturesque cities to visit in Nepal , Pokhara offers stunning views of the mighty ranges of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and more. If you are looking for an excursion that offers a surreal and relaxing experience, then Pokhara should be on your list. Pokhara is also the hub for many adventurous activities like rafting, hiking and trekking. Pokhara promises an utmost tranquil environment and blissful vibes to all those who like nature.

Best Time to Visit Pokhara: September to November

Distance from Kathmandu to Pokhara: Approx. 200.9 km

How to Reach Pokhara: Traveling from Kathmandu to Pokhara by flight is the best way as you can reach there in just 30 minutes. Buses are also available from Kathmandu to Pokhara which takes around 7 to 8 hours.

Activities to Enjoy: Caving, Boating, Mountain biking, Paragliding, Trekking, Hand Gliding, Kayaking

Check out the major attractions in Pokhara that are a must-visit on your next trip to Nepal.

1. Phewa Lake

If you are planning a visit to Nepal , then do not forget to add Phewa Lake to your itinerary where you can enjoy nature in its purest form along with an array of adventures like kayaking, canoeing, swimming, boating and others. Surrounded by lush greenery and snow-capped mountains, Phewa Lake offers postcard-perfect scenic views to everyone who visits this place which also makes it one of the best natural places to visit in Nepal . It is a combination of both man-made as well as a natural freshwater lake surrounded by natural beauty which also gives opportunities to spot different species of birds. On the island of this lake, one can also spot a small temple called Barahi Temple.

Timings: Open 24 Hours

Location: South of Pokhara Valley

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2. Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave

If you are in search of hidden places , then you got one in Pokhara which is the Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave which also has a religious worth attached to it. The cave offers an enchanting and serene environment where one can meditate or relax for some time away from the bustling city life. Discovered in the 16th century, the cave is now visited by many tourists who like to enjoy peaceful surroundings. There is a staircase which one needs to climb in order to enter the cave.

Timings: Every day from 06:00 am to 06:00 pm

Entry Fee: Approx. $0.85 for Non-Nepali tourists

Location: Pokhara (2-min walk from Davis Falls)

3. Pokhara Shanti Stupa

Pokhara Shanti Stupa is a Buddhist monument built in Pagoda style architecture and is nestled on the Ananda Hilltop. With the gigantic mountain ranges in the backdrop, the Shanti Stupa in Pokhara offers great views of the natural vistas surrounding the structure. One of the finest places in Pokhara is this Stupa which is best visited by hiking as you get to enjoy some scenic views on your way. One can catch the clear views of Phewa Lake from the stupa and also the surrounding mountain ranges.

Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

Location: Lumbini Sanskritik 32914, Nepal

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4. Davis Falls

Another stunning tourist place in Pokhara is the Davis Falls whose major source of water is Phewa Lake. The Falls are surrounded by stunning scenery and abundant flora. The water of the falls after cascading down does not go into a river or a lagoon rather it creates a 500 meters long underground tunnel that is why the falls is also called underground falls. The best time to visit the Davis falls is during the monsoon season when the water flows in full speed making it look appealing than ever.

Timings: 5:00 am to 7:00 pm

Location: Sital path, Pokhara 33700, Nepal

Your Nepal sightseeing would be incomplete without visiting Lumbini which is considered one of the most sacred places of the country as it is the birthplace of Lord Buddha. It is one of the most visited places in Nepal especially by the people who follow Buddhism religion. Meditation can be greatly enjoyed amidst the peaceful and tranquil surroundings of Lumbini. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lumbini has myriad attractions that have immense importance in Buddhism and Hinduism religion. What makes it even more intriguing is the natural beauty of the place and the Himalayas in the backdrop. Maya Devi Temple is one of the most important attractions in Lumbini which is nestled in a large park housing the main birthplace of Lord Buddha along with a plethora of monasteries, lakes and other sacred spots.

Best Time to Visit Lumbini: April to May and October to November

Distance from Kathmandu to Lumbini: Approx. 258.9 km

How to Reach Lumbini: One can take a flight from Kathmandu to Siddhartha Gautam Airport and then a taxi to reach Lumbini. Buses from Kathmandu to Sunauli can also be taken and then from Sunauli, taxis can be hired to reach Lumbini.

Activities to Enjoy: Sightseeing, Meditation

Stroll through the list below to find out the best attractions in Lumbini :

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1. Maya Devi Temple

The best attraction of Lumbini is the Maya Devi Temple which is a white structure built amidst the large park. The temple protects the main spot of the birthplace of Lord Buddha which is denoted by a marker stone. It is a must-visit place in Lumbini and attracts thousands of devotees throughout the year. Besides the main temple structure, there are some other important structures as well within the park. It is one of the best places to visit in Nepal for meditation as the surrounding area is serene and offers positive vibes.

Entry Fee: Indians: Free; Foreign tourists: Approx. $1.71; SAARC Nationals: Approx. $0.85

Timings: 06:00 am to 06:00 pm

2. Ashoka Pillar

Ashoka Pillar was built by the emperor Ashoka who visited the Maya Devi Temple and later got influenced by the religion so much that he decided to change his religion to Buddhism. The rich history of this monument makes it one of the must-see places in Nepal . As respect, Ashoka erected this stone pillar in the park where the Maya Devi Temple is situated as a symbol of his respect for the Buddhism religion. The 6-meters long pillar is a sight to behold and also tells about the rich history of the place.

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3. World Peace Pagoda

Another famous tourist attraction in Lumbini is World Peace Pagoda which is a site of great religious importance and also a great place to visit in Nepal . The whole structure cost around US$ 1 million and was constructed by a Japanese Buddhist. The white structure housing a golden statue of Buddha in a position he was born is an intriguing site to watch. It is a great place to relax and meditate in the calm and tranquil surroundings.

Timings: Open all seven days of the week from 08:00 am to 08:00 pm

4. Lumbini Museum

Another fascinating place to visit in Lumbini is the Lumbini Museum which is a great place to know about the various dynasties that rule the country and also religious insights. The museum boasts of around 12000 artefacts, sculptures, coins and other things of historical importance. Opposite the museum lies a Lumbini International Research Institute which offers opportunities to different students and archaeologist to do research work on the Buddhism religion.

Entry Fee: Foreign Nationals, SAARC Nationals & Chinese: Approx. $0.43; Nepalese: Approx. $0.085

Timings: Closed on Tuesdays

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Other Popular Tourist Places In Nepal

Nepal has a lot to offer to tourists. Every nook and corner of the country is blessed with natural beauty and cultural & historical attractions. Besides the main cities of Kathmandu, Pokhara and Lumbini, there are a plethora of other sightseeing places in Nepal . Check out the list below to find the best ones.

1. Nagarkot

A place where surrealism and the best views of the Himalayas come together, Nagarkot is one of the best natural places to visit in Nepal . Nagarkot is a picturesque hill station in Nepal that is blessed with scenic natural beauty and pleasant weather throughout the year. Capturing the sunrise and sunset views from this place is one of the best things to do when in Nepal. One can also get glimpses of Mount Everest from here on a clear day. If you are a mountain lover and someone who adores nature, then we are sure you are going to adore Nagarkot as well.

Best Time to Visit Nagarkot: October to April

Distance from Kathmandu to Nagarkot: Approx. 27.8 km

How to Reach Nagarkot: Take a local public bus from Kathmandu’s Bhaktapur Bus Terminal to Kamalbinayak and then another bus from Kamalbinayak will take you to Nagarkot.

Activities to Enjoy: Paragliding, Hiking, Capture Views of Sunset, Himalayas and Mount Everest

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2. Bhaktapur

Dating back to the 8th century, Bhaktapur houses stunning pieces of art and architecture that tell about the unique culture and traditions of the country. One of the main tourist attractions in Nepal is the Bhaktapur Durbar Square which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The main Royal Palace inside the square is the center of attraction along with several other temples which are built within the square itself.

It is one of the best cities to visit in Nepal to admire the historical and cultural sites located here. However, many of these sites were destroyed in an earthquake that hit the country but there has been tremendous development and many of the sites have been restored. It is also a one-stop destination for an amazing shopping experience where you can get your hands on authentic Nepalese souvenirs, pottery, handicrafts and other architectural pieces.

Best Time to Visit Bhaktapur: March to April and October to November

Distance from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur: Approx. 16.1 km

How to Reach Bhaktapur: The best way to reach Bhaktapur from Kathmandu is by taking mini buses from either Ratna bus stand or Ring road bus stand. These buses will drop you at the Kamalbinayak bus stand in Bhaktapur. Express buses can also be taken from Kathmandu which takes lesser time as compared to these mini buses.

Activities to Enjoy: Temple visits, Shopping, Historical sites tour

3. Chitwan National Park

One of the must-see places in Nepal is Chitwan National Park which has a tropical kind of climate almost throughout the year. With myriad species of fauna and flora, Chitwan in Nepal is a great place for all those who love wildlife and safari rides. Deer, sloth bear, gaur, Bengal tigers, one-horned rhino, dolphins, mugger crocodiles, different species of snakes including cobra and rock python, Bengal foxes, small Indian civets, yellow-throated martens and many others. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is also home to around 544 different species of birds hence it is a paradise for bird watchers as well.

Best Time to Visit: October to February

Distance of Chitwan National Park from Kathmandu: Approx. 169.7 km

How to Reach Chitwan National Park: One can take a road journey by a bus from Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park which would take around 5 to 6 hours. Another option is to take a flight from Kathmandu Airport to Bharatpur airport which would take around 25 minutes and then take a cab to Chitwan which would take another few minutes.

Entry Fee: Foreigners: Approx. 12.80$; SAARC Nationals: Approx. $6.40; Nepal residents: Approx. $0.80

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4. Patan (Lalitpur)

One of the most intriguing places to visit in Nepal is Patan which is also famous by the name of Lalitpur. It is a divine place to witness serenity and spirituality as the place is brimmed with stunning temples and picturesque landscape. The most famous place here is the Patan Durbar Square which houses beautifully carved temples, statues and palaces. Within the premises of Durban Square, one can visit Patan Museum to get an insight about the glorifying history of Patan. Shopping for souvenirs, traditional handicrafts and Buddha statues can be also be done from here. Patan, located on the banks of River Bagmati is also known for its tranquil environs and scenic beauty.

Best Time to Visit Patan: November to January

Distance from Kathmandu to Patan: Approx. 10.6 km

How to Reach Patan: One can take a mini bus from Ratnapark bus station in Kathmandu and reach Patan in around half an hour. Taxis can also be hired from Kathmandu to Patan which is an expensive option comparatively.

Tourist Attractions: Patan Museum, Patan Durbar Square, Patan Gate, Royal Palace Patan, Sundari Chowk

One of the most famous places in Nepal in terms of tourism is Dharan which is a cultural delight in the country. Often referred to as the gateway to Mahabharat Hills, the city offers views of breathtaking sceneries making it one of the best natural places to see in Nepal and also gives opportunities to try out different adventure sports. It is a great place to know about the local culture of the country and to savour on the local cuisines. In order to find the authentic Nepalese culture and food, one should head to Dharan without any doubts. There are a few important temples in the city to visit like Panchakanya Temple, Dantakali Temple, Buddha Subba Temple and others.

Best Time to Visit Dharan: Any time of the year

Distance between Kathmandu and Dharan: Approx. 380.7 km

How to Reach Dharan: One can take a flight from Kathmandu Airport to Biratnagar International Airport which is the closest airport to Dharan. Hire a taxi from here and reach Dharan in the next 1.5 hours.

Tourist Attractions in Dharan: Dharan Clock Tower, Buddha Subba Temple, Namaste Falls, Namche Bazar, Dantakali Temple

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6. Janakpur

If you look at Nepal tourist places videos , then you will see a city brimmed with around 70 ponds called Janakpur, the birthplace of Sita and also the place which is believed to be the marriage venue of Sita with Lord Rama. It is a great place to brush up your knowledge about the Hindu epic, Ramayana and the venues where various incidents took place in the epic can be spotted in real at Janakpur. The beautiful surroundings, rich temples and picturesque landscape of Janakpur make it one of the best places to visit in Nepal .

Best Time to Visit Janakpur: March to May and September to December

Distance between Kathmandu and Janakpur: Approx. 225 km

How to Reach Janakpur: One can take a flight from Kathmandu Airport to the airport in Janakpur for the fastest route. Bus journey can also be taken from Kathmandu to Janakpur which takes around 6 to 7 hours.

Tourist Attractions in Janakpur: Ram Janaki Temple, Ram Mandir, Ram Sita Vivah Mandap, Rolwaling Valley, Jaleshwar, Ganga Sagar

7. Biratnagar

One of the must-see places in Nepal is definitely Biratnagar which is located in close vicinity to the Indian border and houses the first large-scale jute industry of the country. There is also a famous Kali Mata Mandir which has huge importance in Hinduism religion. This second largest city in the country also features some exotic wildlife at places like Koshi Tappu. If you are a foodie, then you would love to explore this city as it is very much popular for its street food. The city has various places where one can relax and get connected with nature. Some of the best ones to explore are Dhankuta, Hile, Koshi River, Baraha Chhetra, Biratnagar Jute Mills and Ilam.

Best Time to Visit Biratnagar: November to March

Distance from Kathmandu to Biratnagar: Approx. 376 km

How to Reach: One can take a bus or hire a taxi from Kathmandu to Biratnagar and reach the city in approx. 9 hours by taking the B.P Highway route.

Tourist Attractions: Dhankuta, Hile, Koshi River, Baraha Chhetra, Biratnagar Jute Mills and Ilam

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8. Chitlang

One of the best tourist places in Nepal for adventure lovers is Chitlang which is a scenic village bordered by Chandragiri Hills. There are various picturesque hiking and trekking trails which makes this place a heaven for adventure enthusiasts. The place also houses some of the best species of birds found in the country giving opportunities for wildlife photographers to click some amazing pictures. Since goat farming is the main occupation of the village, one can take a tour of the Goat Cheese Homestay and learn the entire process of making goat cheese.

Best Time to Visit Chitlang: September to November

Distance from Kathmandu to Chitlang: Approx. 25 km

How to Reach: The easiest way to get to Chitlang from Kathmandu is by taking a cab or a local bus and reach here in around 1 hours 15 minutes via F180 route.

Tourist Attractions: Satdhara, Swochhanda Bhairab Temple, Bhedafaram

9. Parsa Wildlife Reserve

One of the best tourist places in Nepal for animal lovers is Parsa Wildlife Reserve which is home to myriad species of animals and the most popular amongst them is tiger. Jungle safari is the best activity to enjoy here and spot different animals. Spot the famous animals like sloth bears, leopards, tigers, wild dog, blue bull, palm civet, Rhesus macaques, sambar and many other. October to February is the best time to plan a visit to Parsa Wildlife Reserve as the weather is perfect and animal spotting becomes much easier as animals come out in the pleasant weather. For all the adventurous souls and animal lovers, this is one of the must-see places in Nepal. One needs to pay a general fee of NRs. 100 for domestic tourists, NRs. 1500 for foreign nationals and NRs. 750 for nationals of SAARC countries.

Distance from Kathmandu to Parsa Wildlife Reserve: Approx. 106 km

How to Reach: One can hire a taxi to reach Parsa Wildlife Reserve in around 4 hours via Kulekhani - Sisneri - Pharping Road.

Activities to Enjoy: Canoeing, jungle safari

10. Rupa Tal Lake

If you are looking to delve into a peaceful experience, then one of the best places to visit in Pokhara is Rupa Tal Lake which is the only freshwater lake in the country. Located to the south-east of Pokhara Valley, Rupa Tal Lake offers pristine vistas of picturesque landscape surrounding the lake. Boating is one of the best activities to enjoy here and witness clear water of the lake. The lake is located at an altitude of 600 m above sea level with a maximum depth of 6 m. Myriad of waterbirds can be seen around the lake along with migratory birds. It is a great place for couples where they can have a peaceful time enjoying the mesmerizing views of the landscape. Tranquil places like this lake and many other makes Nepal one of the best honeymoon places in Asia .

Best Time to Visit: September to December and February to June

Distance from Pokhara to Rupa Tal Lake: Approx. 19.7 km

How to Reach: One can hire a taxi to reach Rupa Tal Lake from Pokhara and reach Rupa Tal Lake in around 45 minutes via Prithvi Hwy/H04.

Activities to Enjoy: Boating, photography

11. Sagarmatha National Park

One of the best places in Nepal is undoubtedly Sagarmatha National Park which is one of the most scenic parks in Nepal. Offering enchanting views of the Mount Everest, valleys and glaciers, this national park is a UNESCO world heritage site and is located approximately 135 km from Kathmandu. A variety of exotic flora and fauna can be witnessed here like musk deer, Himalayan Tahr, lynx, wolves, Himalayan Monal, weasels, snowcock, and many more. A variety of rare and endangered bird species can also be seen here which is a delight for all the wildlife photographers. One needs to pay a general fee of NRs. 100 for domestic tourists, NRs. 3000 for foreign nationals and NRs. 1500 for nationals of SAARC countries.

Best Time to Visit: October to November and from March to May

Distance from Kathmandu: Approx. 137 km

How to Reach: Take a local bus from Kathmandu to Jiri Village which is around 100 km and then a trek from Jiri Village to the park

Activities to Enjoy: Safari, birdwatching

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12. Phulchoki

If you are looking for best places to visit in the world in December , Phulchoki is one place which you shouldn’t miss out. Phulchoki is famous as a snow destination in Nepal which also offers pristine views of the stunning landscape surrounding it. With beautiful panoramas of mighty mountain ranges, Phulchoki offers a variety of adventures like mountain biking and trekking. To witness snow, one should plan a trip to Phulchoki during winters. Phulchoki literally means flower and the entire valley is covered with colorful flowers making the whole landscape scenic and beautiful. A one-day trek from Kathmandu will take you to Phulchoki. Witness mesmerizing views along the trek and also meet exotic species of flora and fauna on your way.

Best Time to Visit: November to March

Distance from Kathmandu: Approx. 29 km

How to Reach: It is very easy to get to Phulchoki from Kathmandu in around 1 hour 30 minutes via Sandonato-Godavari Rd

Activities to Enjoy: Trekking, mountain biking

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13. Mustang

Mustang is a popular holiday destination among adventure enthusiasts that will take you away from the chaos of commercialized cities. Nestled at an elevated altitude of 3840 kilometers, trekking and hiking are some of the best things to do here. With its Tibetan culture and lifestyle, Mustang is the best place to visit in Nepal .

Located towards the North-Western Part of Nepal, Mustang is home to some of Nepal’s best scenery. The rich vegetation, apple fields, rhododendrons, and the panoramic vista overlooking the snow-capped peaks has made Mustang nature's wonder. There are Tibetan shrines and old caves, Hindu temples, monasteries, and other religious spots that you can explore. The rugged cliffs and untamed terrains add a thrill to the beauty of Mustang, making it a spot for backpackers and off-beat travelers.

Best time to visit : June to September

How to reach: To reach Mustang, you can board a flight to Pokhra thar are operating from Kathmandu. From Pokhra, there are buses and cabs available that will take 6 to 8 hours.

Distance from Kathmandu: 12995 KM

Activities to enjoy: Hiking, Trekking, Visit the monasteries, Rock Climbing, Mountain biking

Best Attractions: Nepali Grand Canyon, Muktinath Temple, monasteries of Kagbeni, Lo Manthang city monasteries

14. Panauti

Panauti means unlucky and this city in Nepal clearly justifies the name with some of its historical incidences. Located within 32 kilometers from Kathmandu, this can be on the list of Nepal's best places to visit, where you can discover the history and background of this small town from middle age.

Panauti overlooks the panoramic view of the Gorakhnath hill that is situated at a height of 2000 ft. There are wooden houses, halls, temples, and vintage shops around that resemble and reminiscence the past.  Panauti is among the best places to visit in May and June as the town celebrates Panauti Yatra, or Jya Punhi, a three-day festival. You can stroll around the public squares, courtyards, and other places of tourist attractions that make it one of the must-see places in Nepal . While today this town is among the well-settled and civilized places, there is still a sense of solitude here.

Best time to visit : September to May and June

How to reach: As Tribhuvan International is the nearest airport, you can get the buses from Kathmandu to Panauti, making it easier to reach.

Distance from Kathmandu: 32 KM

Activities to enjoy: Sighteseing, Visit the temples, Hiking at Namo Buddha

Best Attractions: Indreshwar Temple, Bansha Gopal Krishna Temple, Bashuki Nag Temple, Panauti Museum

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15. Bandipur

The picturesque town of Nepal, Bandipur, is the best attraction to visit in Nepal . Home to the Newari culture, Bandipur is known for its serene beauty, where is wilderness, sanctuaries, caverns, and a lot more natural wonder.

Well, your experience at Bandipur will be limited to just sightseeing as there is nothing much to do and explore. So, if leisure is all you want, Bandipur will offer you just a perfect serene beauty and a laid-back vibe to enjoy. The calm and soothing ambiance of Bandipur is surely a perfect getaway for escaping the city chaos.

You can explore the old bazaars and the timber wood trails, discover the hidden shrines and observe the livelihood of people for an unforgattable experience. Bandipur might not sound like a fun destination but, the panorama and landscape make it one of the best places to go in Nepal.

Best time to visit : October to March

How to reach: The nearest airport to Bandipur is Tribhuvan International at Kathmandu. It will take approximately 4 to 5 hours to reach the town from airport via various transportation available here.

Distance from Kathmandu: 104 KM

Activities to enjoy: Trek the Orchid Trail, Explore the Siddha Cave, Learn about silk farming, stroll around Tandrang Tundrung

Best Attractions: Tundikhel, Khadga Devi, Bindhabasini Temple, Chandithan, Narayan Temple, Paharpani Mahadev, Padma Library

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16. Nuwakot

Another offbeat place to visit in Nepal , Nuwakot, is a destination that is blessed with the surreal beauty of nature. Though the list of attractions here is not much, Nuwakot does have some of the historical places to visit during the tour. The district exhibits a blend of vintage beauty of the 17th century and every modernized facility of the 21st century.

Peeping back into history, Nuwakot was once a trading hub between Tibet and India. With the places like Nuwakot square palace and Durbar Square, you can witness its spectacular architectural beauty. While there is just a limited accommodation hotel, backpackers find this city really interesting due to its unexplored regions. It is the culture and tradition that is a major attraction for travelers. Like every other attraction in Nepal , Nuwakot too has some old temples and shrines that you can visit.

Best time to visit : September to March

How to reach: The Tribhuvan International at Kathmandu is approximately 48 km from Niwakot. It will take approximately 1 to two hours to reach via any public transport.

Distance from Kathmandu: 48 KM

Activities to enjoy: City Sightseeing tours, Visit the temples and shines

Best Attractions: Langtang National Park, Jalapadevi, Bhairavi Devi Temple, Nuwakot square palace

Gorkha is among the most prominent must-see places in Nepal with a history dating back to the Shah dynasty. Nestled high on a hill, Gorkha overlooks the sweeping beauty of nature, making it a picturesque destination for spending a holiday. The historical remains and the dramatic terrains of the place have made it a leading attraction for every tourist in the country.

Defining the real culture and lifestyle of Nepal, Gorkha is a place where you can learn about every heritage of Nepali’s culture. The ethnic groups, Gorkhas and Magars are mainly dwelling here, who are known for their bravery on the war field. Travelers often visit this place to explore the old Durbar and other tourist attractions in Nepal. You can find some of the best hotels and restaurants at this scenic attraction.

Best time to visit : April to June

How to reach: As you arrive at the Tribhuvan International at Kathmandu, you can get a taxi or bus for Gorkha. It will take approximately 1hours and 30 minutes to reach Gorkha.

Distance from Kathmandu: 89 KM

Activities to enjoy: Manaslu trekking, Visit the temples

Best Attractions: Durbar Square, Manakamana Temple, Gorakha Nath Temple

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18. Chandragiri Hills

Chandragiri Hills offers the most breathtaking view of the Himalayan ranges and is known for its cable car ride. One can always rejuvenate themselves in the fresh environment.  It is one of the must-see places in Nepal for its stunning trails, views from the top and ambience. It is worth the visit and should be on the bucket of places to visit at least once.

Located south west of Kathmandu, the hills make the perfect one-day trip. It is an experience of a life that will take people's breath away. It will a trip to remember and several memories will never be forgotten. What more can anyone ask for when it comes to visiting the hills? It is one of the best holidays ever and so, people will boast about it for a long time to come.  It is said to be one of the ideal honeymoon destinations in Nepal.

Best time to visit :  September

How to reach:  One can reach the hills in a cable car will takes only a couple of minutes to reach. If one were to drive down then it would be about 11 kms off road to the top of the hills.

Distance from Kathmandu:  12.8 kms

Activities to enjoy: Stunning trails

Best Attractions: View from the top

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19. Janaki Temple

Have you been a temple in Nepal and simply stood there in awe? Have you ever been fascinated by the myth behind any temples? Janaki Temple is an absolute marvel of a Hindu and Koiri Nepali culture, located in the Mithila district of Nepal.  Dedicated to the Goddess Sita, as per the Hindu Myth, Sita and Rama got married here. It is also said to be the birth place of Sita. It is one of the top places to visit in Nepal as people from all over the world come to offer their prayers and seek blessings of Rama and Sita. The temple is absolutely stunning as it the most breathtaking three storied structure along with its façade, interiors and décor. What more can anyone ask for in terms of having the most amazing vacation with their family and friends?

The temple is a must visit and there won’t be another temple like this anywhere else in the world. So, people should not miss out on the opportunity and make the most out of their vacation. The best time to visit is June and so, make it magical.

Best time to visit :  May, June

How to reach:  People can easily travel by air as the nearest airport in Nepal is Tribhuvan International Airport. There are airlines like Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines and Sita Airlines that fly in and out of the city. It is well connected by rail and so, people will not have any problem. There are regular buses that go to Nepal.

Distance from Kathmandu:  222.4 kms

Activities to enjoy: Enjoy the architecture of the temple

Best Attractions: Ganga Sagar, Shree Ram Janaki Biwaha Mandap

20. Mount Annapurna

Have you ever been to Mount Annapurna? You are in luck as you have no idea what you are missing out on.  It is the 10th highest mountains in the world as it over 8,000 meters. Mount Annapurna is located in North central Nepal and is a part of the massif, which is the biggest conservative area of Nepal and home to the best trekkers in the world.  The mountain is said to quite steep and a tough; and deadliest climb in the region. It has been named after Annapura, the Goddess who believed to have stayed there. It is a source of everlasting food, so to know more about the place, people should plan a vacation.

The mountain view is absolutely breathtaking and jaw dropping. It is not a view that people should miss out as it is a once in a life time chance that may or may not come again. You should boast about it with your friends and family. It is one of the places to visit in Nepal.

Best time to visit :  September to November

How to reach:  One can easily take the bus or taxi and reach the base camp of the mountains. One can even travel by air to Nepal and then take a bus or taxi.  People will not have a problem traveling at all.

Distance from Kathmandu: 174 km

Activities to enjoy: Hiking and Trekking

Best Attractions: Sanctuary, Tlicho Lake and Valle de Naar

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21. Langtang National Park

Lantang national park is known for its trekking trails, situated close to the Kathmandu valley. People can explore the flora and fauna along with the beauty of the landscapes. The Gosaikunda Lake goes through the park, which adds immense beauty to the landscapes. Some of the most famous trekking trails in the region are Langtang Valley, the Gosaikunda Lake, and Helambu treks are a few famous trekking trails. The park has a number of campgrounds, lodges, tea stalls and much more. The level of the trails ranges from moderate to difficult, which attract tourists from around the world.

People should not give up on the chance and should enjoy each moment as it comes. It is a trek that is a once in a lifetime experience. It is absolutely amazing and breathtaking. What more can anyone ask for when it comes to visiting a national park that offers the best trekking trails. So, don’t wait any longer and simply pack your bags and have the best time ever. It is one of the must see places in Nepal and should of course be on the list.

How to reach:  One can drive down to the park from Kathmandu, which is a 4-hour drive. One can even take the bus in the morning that starts from Machhapokhari, New Bus Park in Kathmandu to Syabrubesi in Langtang National Park.

Distance from Kathmandu: 202 kms

Activities to enjoy: Trekking and Drinking tea at the tea stalls

Best Attractions: Landscapes, Campgrounds, lodges and tea stalls

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Best Time To Visit Nepal

October to December is a highly recommended time to visit Nepal for sightseeing and trekking. The skies are clear with amazing weather, so one can expect uninterrupted views of the mountain ranges during this time. It is also the peak season in terms of tourism in the country. Let’s see the month-wise details of weather in Nepal :

December to February: During these months, the days are generally warmer but the nights are quite chilly with January being the coldest month. It is a great time to explore Nepal for people who like calm and secluded places with no rush. One can also expect discounted prices at various hotels.

March to May: Another good time to plan a visit to Nepal is March to May for trekking and sightseeing. It is during this time when the rhododendrons are in full bloom making the landscapes vibrant and gorgeous. It is also a good time to explore the wildlife of Nepal.

June to August: It is the monsoon season in Nepal hence not an ideal time to go for adventurous activities. The weather is cool but with humidity. Generally, these months are avoided in terms of traveling to Nepal.

September to November: This is the best time to visit Nepal when the skies are clear thus offering clear views of the many mountain ranges. With the autumn season, one can expect cool winds indicating the arrival of winters.

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From stunning architectural pieces to enthralling natural wonders, Nepal is truly a delight for eyes to witness. We hope that this guide on the best places to visit in Nepal could help you in planning your next holidays in the country. Spend a few days here admiring the gorgeous views of the many highest peaks which are located here, the cultural delights and dig into the enriching history of the country through various museum visits. Do let us know in the comments section below which one is your favorite amongst these places if you have been to any of them.

One should visit Nepal for a minimum of 3 days to cover all the major tourist attractions in the country.

October to December is considered the best time to visit Nepal for sightseeing, trekking and other adventures. The skies are clear; hence one can enjoy views of Mount Everest and Himalayan ranges.

Some of the best souvenirs and things to buy from here are:

• Singing bowls
• Buddha statues
• Tibetan prayer flags
• Nepali Dhaka products
• Wooden handicrafts
• Beaded jewelry

Some of the thrilling adventures that are worth-trying in Nepal are:

• Jungle safari
• Paragliding
• White water rafting
• Mountain biking
• Bungee jumping
• Everest skydiving
• Rock climbing
• Paramotoring

Some of the best dishes one gorge on in Nepal are:

Some of the things which tourists must avoid doing in Nepal are:

• Avoid using left hand to eat in public places.
• Do not enter the religious places with your shoes on.
• Avoid drinking tap water
• Do not tease yaks as this can be risky.
• Do not disrespect any rules at religious places.
• Do not offer anything with your left hand to Nepalese people.
• Avoid hiring cars or taxis, make use of buses more.

Some of the most famous temples and religious attractions in Nepal are:

• Pashupatinath Temple
• Swayambhunath Stupa
• Manakamana Temple
• Dantakali Temple
• Budhanilkantha Temple
• Changu Narayan Temple
• Boudhanath Stupa

Some popular places to enjoy the nightlife in Nepal are:

• Tom & Jerry Pub, Kathmandu
• Moksha Live Bar, Lalitpur
• Moon Sun Disco, Patan
• Tamarind Resto Bar, Patan
• Kathmandu Durbar Square

Nepal is a great place to buy traditional handicrafts and other quirky items. Some of the best places to shop in Nepal are:

• Durbar Marg
• Asan Market, Kathmandu
• Boudha & Bhaktapur Market
• Mahendrapul Bazaar, Pokhara
• Pottery Square, Bhaktapur

Nepal is one of the safest countries to visit around the world. The local people of the country welcome tourists with an open heart. However, one must still be a little cautious as petty crimes are common everywhere.

Nepal is a great destination for shopping of some amazing traditional products like singing bowls, pashmina shawls, rice paper products and others. Some popular markets to shop for these products are:

• Freak Market
• Kalimati Market
• Asan Market
• Boudha Stupa Market
• Mahendrapul Bazar
• Taragaon Market
• Durbar Square

The best way to reach Nepal from India is by taking a direct flight from any of the major airports in India to Tribhuvan International Airport which is currently the only international airport in the country. It takes around 1 hour 30 minutes to reach Nepal from Delhi in India. If you are looking for rail connectivity, then also there are direct trains available to Raxaul from Kolkata which takes around 16 hours.

Some of the best places to visit in Pokhara are:

• Devi’s Falls
• Begnas Lake
• Tal Barahi Temple
• Mahendra Cave

The best time to go to Nepal for trekking is spring season that is from March till May.

The most famous temples in Nepal are:

• Guhyeshwari Temple

Tulika Pandey

I am a travel enthusiast, who likes to move on wheels with a backpack to meet new people and explore new places. I like to share my experiences through words and pictures with the world.

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10 Best Things to Do in Nepal

Home » Blog » Budget Travel » Backpacking Destinations » 10 Best Things to Do in Nepal

Nepal boasts some of the best trekking in world, drawing avid hikers and adrenaline addicts from all corders of the globe. But there is more to this small, landlocked country than trekking in the mountains.

Actually, there is kind of an overwhelming amount of things to do in Nepal… To the point where you can get totally overwhelmed while planning your trip.

You’ll discover a beautiful culture, heart-thumping adventures, and wildlife encounters. You’ll see there is an interesting cuisine to taste, truly kind people who welcome you in, and a deep spiritual side of the country to explore.

There are lists out there of 100+ places to visit in Nepal, but we here to help distill down what to do according to you and your interests.

We’re going through the top things to do in Nepal that you should consider as you start planning. You might not have the time (or interest) for all of them. But you’ll at least be able to pick out what suits your travel style, your budget, and your time frame.

More Nepal Info: If you haven’t already, check out our complete Nepal Travel Guide that goes over literally everything you need to know about traveling to this incredible country.

Things to Do in Nepal Contents:

Go Trekking

Take a Cooking Class

Get Spiritual

Spend the night at a Homestay

Get an Adrenaline Rush

Go Back in time in Kathmandu

See Wildlife

Go Shopping for Souvenirs

Take a scenic flight over the Himalayas

Volunteer in Nepal

Disclaimer: Just so we’re on the same page… Our first visit to Nepal in 2016 was an independent trip. Our second visit (in May/June 2019) was hosted by the Nepal Tourism Board in conjunction with the 2019 Himalayan Travel Mart. Although we were hosted on this trip, all views and opinions of Nepal in this article are our own.

Affiliates: Also, there are some affiliate links in this guide, which means when you click we get a small percentage of the purchase at no extra cost to you. This allows us to keep sharing great Nepal travel tips with you, so feel free to click away!

1. Go Trekking

Let’s start with the obvious: Trekking!

If you like hiking and you’re traveling to Nepal, you’ll definitely want to squeeze in a trek, or even plan your whole trip around one.

From the iconic peaks of the Himalayas more tame trails at lower elevations, there are hikes of all lengths and levels of difficulty to choose from.

We’re even sharing some treks that are still pretty undiscovered by tourists, so you can avoid the crowds that come with the more popular trails.

Long & Challenging Treks in Nepal

Want a big-bad, once-in-a-lifetime, this-is-what-dreams-are-made-of type trek?

Consider doing a 17-day trek to EBC and Gokyo Lakes . We absolutely loved our experience!

Or attempt the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Circuit .

Short & Easy Treks in Nepal

Are you looking for a somewhat easy hike that you can fit in during a shorter trip to Nepal?

The Poon Hill Trek is quite accessible and is popular with hikers of all ages and varying levels of fitness. And you can complete the trek in just 5 days, making it a good option if you’re in a time crunch.

Balthali Village Trek is located in the Kathmandu Valley and takes just 3 days. The trails are rated as “easy”, so this could be an especially good option if you are limited on time and are concerned about your fitness level.

The Changunarayan Trek to Nagarkot takes just 2 days, and the highlight is reaching the hill station of Nagarkot where sunrise is said to be fantastic.

I’m going to pop in and say that “easy” is a subjective word, and it can mean different things to different people. Even “easy treks” in Nepal standards can still be difficult. But choosing ones with lower elevation will help ensure it is not too difficult.

Off the Beaten Path Treks in Nepal

What about a trek off the beaten path trek where you won’t run into other hikers along the way?

We didn’t run into a single other hiker during our 5-day trek on the Mohare Danda Route .

Langtang Valley is another lesser-visited route that is typically done in 7 – 8 days.

And this isn’t even scratching the surface of all the other treks Nepal has to offer. With a little research, you’ll likely become overwhelmed by all the trekking options in this part of the world!

2. Take a Cooking Class and/or Food Tour

I’m going to come right out and say it: Nepalese food isn’t my favorite cuisine. That doesn’t mean I don’t like it — there are some delicious dishes that I love (in moderation). But the cuisine in general is a little too carb-heavy to be one that I call a favorite.

But even so, taking a cooking class or food tour is one of the best ways to learn about a country’s culture and get a glimpse into local life that you wouldn’t otherwise see.

While we were in Kathmandu, we did both a cooking class AND a food tour.

Both were amazing recommendations from our friend Jean, of Traveling Honeybird, and they were highlights of our time in Kathmandu.

Nepalese Cooking Class

I’m going to go out on a limb and guess that your favorite Nepalese dish is going to be momos. It is for most travelers!

These tasty dumplings are stuffed full of veggies and/or chicken, and steamed until they are piping hot. Served alongside a delicious dipping sauce, it’s hard not to love momos. Plus, they are naturally vegan (as long as you don’t order the meat variety).

Learn how to make them in a cooking class! Social Tours , which is run out of the HUB in the center of Thamel, offers a cooking class that is “pay what you wish” (aka pay how much you think it’s worth).

Note: If I was wrong with my assumption and you don’t like momos (shocking!), you can ask to make dal bhat instead!

The class takes between 2 – 3 hours and is run by local women, who start by bringing you to the market to pick up ingredients.

When you return to the kitchen, you’ll be given tasks, like chopping veggies or kneading the dough that you’ll make from scratch. The instructor shows you 2 different momo-rolling techniques: crescent and round. And lemme tell ya, it is harder than it looks! Making momos yourself will give you a deep appreciation any time you order them off the menu.

After the momos are ready and the sauce has been made, you’ll have time to relax as they steam. And be sure you work up an appetite, because these babies are the most delicious momos you’ll have during your time in Nepal. Maybe partially because you put in the sweat-equity!

Alternative: Backstreet Academy also offers a Momo Cooking Class with a home chef.

Kathmandu Food Tour

We also went on a Breakfast Food Tour with Backstreet Academy, which was a highlight of our time in Nepal’s capital city.

Our guides, Frankie and Kanti, led us through passageways where we had to duck our heads (I nailed my forehead once and learned my lesson). We took small alleyways that opened up to courtyards. And everyone in our group agreed that this is one food tour you most definitely could not do on your own.

We ate traditional breakfast dishes alongside locals while sitting in plastic chairs outside a teeny stand that is not on TripAdvisor or Google Maps.

We wove our way through crowds of locals on their morning errands at the vibrant and bustling Asan Market. And our guides led us into a small Hindu Temple and explained how we could (respectfully) give an offering with a butter candle. And that’s not counting all the other foods we ate along the way!

At just $16 USD, we would highly, highly recommend doing the Breakfast Tour with Backstreet Academy. It will likely be a highlight of your time in Kathmandu, just like it was for us.

Alternative: They also offer a ton of other tours, including a Secret Food Tour in the afternoon (for all of you non-morning people!). Our guide explained that this tour is more focused on the food while the Breakfast Tour gives you a deeper glimpse into the lives of local people and into the backstreets of Kathmandu.

3. Get Spiritual

You won’t have to spend many days in Nepal to understand what an integral role religion plays in daily life. The two most commonly practiced religions in Nepal are Hinduism (roughly 81% of the population) and Buddhism (about 11% of the population).

Whether you’re simply curious about religion, or you’re on a spiritual journey yourself, there are many places to delve a little deeper into the spiritual world during your trip to Nepal.

We’re sharing a couple of the most famous Buddhist and Hindi sites that are easily visited from Kathmandu, plus a couple other options for those wanting a deeper spiritual experience.

Make a Pilgrimage to Lumbini

Located near the border of India, the town of Lumbini is known as the birthplace of Buddha, and is an important religious pilgrimage for people from around the world.

In Lumbini, you’ll find a complex filled with temples, monasteries, and stupas. And you’ll also see the sacred Bodhi Tree, adorned in colorful prayer flags. This tree is said to symbolize the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment.

Good to know: We personally haven’t been to Lumbini, and truthfully, we’ve heard very mixed reviews. Some people loved it and had a very moving spiritual experience, while others felt like it’s overrated and borders on a “tourist trap”. I should mention that most of the people we spoke with who loved Lumbini have some connection with Buddhism . So perhaps to get the most out of your time at Lumbini, do some research on the fundamentals of Buddhism (if you don’t know much about the religion already) and manage your expectations.

See Kathmandu’s Most Famous Buddhist Stupas

Walk down any street in Kathmandu and you’ll likely see a temple or a shrine… or maybe both.

Whether you’re interested in religion or not, a visit to one of city’s most famous stupas should be on your list of things to do in Kathmandu.

Boudhanath Stupa

Entrance fee for foreigners: 250 rupees

Located 8 kilometers east of the city center, this is perhaps one of the most beautiful attractions in all of Kathmandu. Standing 36 meters high, this is one of the tallest stupas not just in Nepal, but in South Asia.

Sometimes called simply “Boudha” for short, this famed stupa is said to contain relics of the Buddha, and is the center of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. In fact, you’ll find several Tibetan monasteries surrounding the stupa; the most famous being Tamang Monastery. You’re allowed to enter, and the view from the rooftop is beautiful. Just be respectful of those meditating.

Arrive in the early morning or in the “golden hours” of evening, and you’ll see devout Buddhists walking clockwise around the stupa. Surrounding the stupa are souvenir shops, but somehow this place didn’t feel overly “touristy”. We felt like there were more worshippers and locals than foreigners.

If you get tired (or hot!) from walking around, wander up to one of the many rooftop cafes and order a banana lassi or iced cappuccino!

Our Recommendation: There are plenty of places to choose from, but we really liked the rooftop restaurant at Hotel Padma, located near the entrance/exit. We paid 700 rupees ($7 USD) for a lassi, and iced coffee, and a muffin, which we enjoyed with a fantastic view! The atmosphere is nice and they had a large selection of food as well.

Swayambhunath Stupa (“Monkey Temple”)

Entrance fee for foreigners : 200 rupees

This is another famous stupa that sits atop a hill and overlooks the city. It is sometimes called the “Monkey Temples” by foreigners for the furry creatures that like to hang out here. (And also probably because the name — Swayambhunath — is hard to pronounce!)

You can see locals lighting butter candles and you’ll get panoramic views over the city. It’s a good spot for sunset if the timing works out.

Keep close tabs on our belonging when visiting. Those monkeys can be conniving and will reach out for plastic bags because they will think there’s food inside. It’s also best not to put your sunglasses on top of your head. We saw a monkey steal a pair of D&G glasses off a woman’s head, stare back at her and snapped them in two! Cold blooded little devils.

Short on time? If you have time, you might be able to see both the Boudha Stupa as well as Swayambhunath. However, having been to both, we were more impressed with the Boudha Stupa, so if you only have time for one, we’d recommend that one.

Observe Hindu Cremations at the Burning Ghats

Entrance fee for foreigners: 1,000 rupees

When we traveled to India , the most interesting place we saw was the city of Varanasi. Actually, it wasn’t just the most interesting place we saw in India… no, it’s the most interesting place we’ve seen in the world . No doubt about it.

Varanasi sits on the the Ganges River and is one of the holiest (if not the holiest) places for Hindus. Famous for the “burning ghats” on the banks of the river, followers of the Hindu faith believe that being cremated and having your ashes placed into this holy river will wash away their sins and bring them to Nirvana.

Wait, why are we talking about India in an article about Nepal? Well, because you can experience something similar taking place in Kathmandu at the Pashupatinath Temple. Sometimes referred to as a “mini Varanasi” this is the oldest Hindu temple in Kathmandu and is dedicated to the god Shiva.

Visiting the Pashupatinath Temple can be both an interesting and intense experience.

This complex contains hundreds of temples, and within it, you will witness cremation ceremonies on platforms beside the Bagmati River, which eventually joins the River Ganges.

Many elderly Hindus come to Pashupatinath Temple near the end of their lives with the wish to be cremated here once they pass away. Unlike in Varanasi though, where it is believed people skip the rebirth process and go straight to Nirvana, those who are cremated at Pashupatinath are reborn as a human (regardless of sins that may bring bad karma).

Important to know: Foreigners and non-Hindus are not allowed in the main temple complex. If you plan to visit this temple, please be respectful, as you are witnessing funeral ceremonies.

Practice Yoga

While practicing yoga takes on a different form of spirituality, for some, it is just as impactful. And even if you do it for your hamstrings — yes, downward dog! — squeezing in a class or going full on at a yoga retreat will be good for your body, mind, and soul.

Do a drop in class in chilled out Pokhara. ( Just take a look at all the yoga studios this town has! )

Or go deeper into your practice by booking a multi-day retreat. Here’s a list of yoga retreats in Nepal , some of which combine the practice with other activities, like photography, trekking, or whitewater rafting.

You could even get your yoga teacher training certification while in Nepal. We think it would be a pretty ideal place to do it, as it would be on the more affordable end (as far as certifications go); plus, you’d be in a beautiful and peaceful setting.

Do a Meditation Retreat in Nepal

If you really want a transformational experience during your trip to Nepal (and you don’t have strict time restraints), a meditation retreat might be right up your alley…

Want more info about meditation? We did a meditation retreat at a monastery in Thailand and had a wonderful experience, which you can read about here .

From 10-day Vipassana courses during which you must be silent to shorter workshops suited for beginners to meditation, there are many options to choose from . It’s also helpful to note that some meditation retreats cost a pretty penny, while others are donation-based.

4. Spend the night at a Homestay

If you want to get a unique look into the lives of Nepalese people and support local communities, consider spending at least one night during your trip at a homestay.

The Community Homestay Network boasts the tagline, “Do it the local way,” and shows travelers a different side of Nepal. There are homestay locations all around the country, and your money goes directly back to those who host you.

Homestays range in cost from $12 – $45 USD per person per night, and typically include meals and sometimes an activity.

Tipping at Homestays: It is appreciated (and sometimes expected) for guests to tip at homestays. The suggested amount is between 200-300 ($1.75 – $2.70 USD) rupees per person for each night stayed.

Spending the night — or a few nights! — in homestays is a perfect opportunity to get off the typical tourist route and see a side of Nepal you’d otherwise miss. Plus, it is a powerful way to give back on your travels, as the Community Homestay program empowers local women to earn a fair wage while carrying on and preserving their traditions.

5. Get an Adrenaline Rush

Nepal is an adventure-junkie’s dream destination. The towering Himalayas paired with deep valleys and rushing river, create a perfect environment for all types of adventures.

With a ton of extreme sports to choose from, you’ll have your share of activities to get your thrill on!

Whitewater Rafting & Kayaking

Did you know Nepal has more than 6,000 rivers? Is your mind blown as much as mine!?

It makes sense when you think about all the mountains and glaciers…. but still. That’s an impressive amount of rivers.

And with so many waterways, it only makes sense that Nepal is a great place to go whitewater rafting. And just like the variety of hikes that you can find in Nepal, there are a ton of options when it comes to whitewater.

From day trips for beginners (or those short on time!) to multi-day river excursions for the experienced river rat, Nepal has it all.

Here are two different options just to illustrate the extremes you’ll find:

Accessible Whitewater for Beginners: Trisuli River

One of the easiest places to go whitewater rafting while traveling in Nepal, this river is located just 3 hours west of Kathmandu, and is a good stopping point on the way to Pokhara or Chitwan. The rapids are class II – III (depending on on the season and water levels) and it is suitable for beginners.

Remote Whitewater Adventure for Advanced Paddlers: Karnali River

This is the longest river in Nepal and is seldom seen by tourists, due to its location in the far west of the country that can be difficult to reach. Doing a whitewater trip on the Karnali River would be an adventure of a lifetime, as you navigate through some of the least touristy parts of Nepal. Though this off-the-beaten-path adventure is not an option for many travelers, as it is a 10-day expedition and requires that you are an experienced paddler. Bonus: This trip ends in Bardia National Park where you have the chance of spotting wild tigers.

Paragliding

Situated on the shore of Lake Phewa and surrounded by peaks, it’s no wonder why Pokhara is often listed as one of the best places in the world to go paragliding.

Starting from the hillside known as Sarangkot, you’ll depart land and soar through the air and take in the views as your guide does all the hard work of navigating the thermals and air streams (hopefully that’s the right lingo… sounds cool, doesn’t it?!).

Good to know: Spring and Fall are the best times of the year to go paragliding, as you’ll have the best chance of getting clear views of the Himalayas and the sprawling city below. While it is possible during other parts of the year, just know that the views may be obstructed with clouds or haze.

Mountain Biking

While this likely isn’t the first adventure sport that comes to mind when you think of Nepal, there are actually some very impressive spots around the country for mountain bikers of all levels.

There are literally tours that will drop you with your bike from a helicopter, and you cycle down on remote and challenging trails on an epic multi-day excursion. And on the opposite end of the spectrum, there are biking day trips on which you are assisted by a shuttle.

So whether you’re super hardcore biker chick (or dude!), or you just want a unique day of adventure, you might want to consider adding a cycling excursion to your Nepal itinerary. It is on our bucket list for our next trip!

Our recommendation: Himalayan Single Track is a well-established mountain biking company in Nepal, and they have rave reviews. They offer a variety of tours for all levels and time frames.

Here’s the zipline in Pokhara… see that steep wire on the right?! Oh, and check out that storm rolling in from a distance. This photo was taken just a few minutes before the lightening started!

We like zip-lining. But to be honest, we usually don’t find it quite as exciting as other adventure activities. I think that’s partially because we were spoiled with some insanely good ziplining in Costa Rica (13 platforms in gorgeous rainforest)… and most other places we’ve been have been, well, a bit disappointing.

But in hills outside of Pokhara, near the place the paragliders take off, there’s a zip-line unlike any we’ve seen.

At 1.8 kilometers in length, this apparently used to be the longest in the world, but recently one in Ras Al Khaimah took the title. (I was actually in RAK when they opened it!)

There are claims of it being the world’s steepest and tallest zipline; but that is also up for debate, as competition around the world fights for the fame.

But regardless of whether it breaks records, it is touted “the World’s Most Extreme Zipline”, and for good reason. With a vertical drop of 600 meters (1,958 feet), zipliners can reach speeds of more than 90 miles per hour!

My Experience: Naturally, I wanted to see if it lived up to the hype. As our group arrived to the station, we heard thunder in the distance and droplets of rain started to fall. After a short safety briefing, two group members strapped on their helmets and screamed as they pushed off and over the mountain.

But then the real rail started to fall. We waited, but it only rained more. Then came more thunder. And lightening. And we were told that it *probably* wasn’t a good idea for us to zip-line in these conditions . So we hopped back into the bus and made the 45-minute journey back to town. Bummer, dude. But at least we were safe…?

So even though I can’t give you a real rundown of the experience, here are 2 things I think you should know as you decide whether or not this experience is for you:

Go in the morning hours. We were told that it often rains in the afternoon in Pokhara (no matter what time of the year), and had we arrived earlier, we all would have been able to fo.

Know that the whole experience takes around 2.5 hours when you factor in paperwork and getting to and from town. There is only one zipline (not multiple platforms), and the ride itself takes less than 3 minutes .

Bungee Jumping

Are you just craving a surge of adrenaline that nothing other than jumping off a cliff (or bridge!) will satisfy?

Sounds like you and Ben have a lot in common, and he can tell you all about his bungee jumping experience in Pokhara:

After a 45-minute drive outside of Pokhara, I arrived at the HighGround Bungee and stared up the metal box that I would soon be jumping out of. EeeeeK! The staff help gear us up with a full body harness and we walked up the entrance ramp up to the suspended box in the sky. There were about 8 of us going that day and I was 4th in line.

After seeing the first three people jump, scream and survive, I knew I would be okay. When it was my turn, the cloudy sky started to rumble from thunder. I thought, “get me out of this metal box in the sky, I don’t want get struck by lighting!”

I had bungee jumped before in New Zealand , so I knew what I had to do. The staff strapped me up, including a safety harness, and I approached the ledge. I knew I couldn’t think about it, but I still looked down once and had a mini-freak out inside. They counted down 5, 4, 3, 2, and on 1 I jumped! I screamed all the way down, and giggled as I bounced back up and down again. It’s such a rush, I think my eyeball nearly popped out of my head!

Once I stopped bouncing, the team lowered me down into a little raft in a little pond that sat directly below jump zone. I got unhooked, walked back up to the shop and had a celebratory beer with my fellow jumpers!

6. Go Back in time in Kathmandu

Did you know that Nepal has the densest concentration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites of any country in the world?! That means there are tons of opportunities for you to imagine you’ve stepped into a time machine.

While you can find stunning historic architecture all around the country, Kathmandu itself has many fantastic historic sites.

Good to know: Nepal’s most recent earthquake, in 2015, damaged many sites around Kathmandu and the rest of the country. Be prepared to see scaffolding around many buildings as they continue their efforts to repair and preserve these pieces of history.

Durbar Square translates to “Royal Square”, and if you look closely at a map of Kathmandu and the surrounding area, you’ll see there are 3 of them:

Kathmandu’s city center

While each Durbar Square is unique, they have similarities too: each containing a mix of temples, palaces, monasteries, and shrines.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Entrance fee for foreigners: 1000 rupees (about $9 USD)

If you’re staying in the city center, this square will be the most accessible during your trip.

Wander past ancient buildings and vendors selling handicrafts. Beware that it is still undergoing construction as they continue to repair damages from the 2015 earthquake.

If you venture to the Kumari Ghar (“house of the Kumari”), you have the chance to see an interesting piece of Nepal’s culture. The Kumari is a young girl who is thought to be a “living goddess”, and is worshipped until she reaches puberty. The history behind the Kumari is interesting and well worth the research .

If you are in Durbar Square in the morning hours or in the afternoon, you might see her come to the window to give her worshippers a glimpse. Important: Photography of the Kumari is strictly forbidden.

Entrance fee for foreigners: 1,000 rupees (about $9 USD)

Hailed as one of the most beautiful places to see in the Kathmandu Valley, Patan is just south of the city center and is well worth a visit.

Patan is one of the oldest known Buddhist cities, yet it is also a center for Hinduism, and you can observe both temples and shrines relating to both religions around the town square.

Hot Tip: Apparently, Patan is one of the best places to purchase a singing bowl in Nepal, as it is famous for artisans who craft these bowls from hand.

Take in the stunning architecture and get lost in the narrow streets. You can visit the Patan Museum, which is quite interesting (Note: it costs 250 rupees, or free by presenting your Patan entrance ticket). Glimpse the famed Golden Temple (50 rupees), and relax at a cute cafe.

Looking for more to do in this area? This is a great list of unique things to do in Patan that goes beyond the Durbar Square.

Entrance fee for foreigners: 1,500 rupees ($13.50 USD)

This ancient Newari city is said to be the best preserved old city center in all of Nepal. More than 80,000 people call Bhaktapur home today, so visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site isn’t only about seeing the past… it’s also a perfect spot to observe local life happening all around you.

Watch artisans as they make clay pots and other traditional crafts, which they sell on the streets.

Hot Tip: Be sure to try juju dhau , which translates to “king of yogurts” in the Newari language. And Bhaktapur is the place to try this sweet and creamy treat! You can’t find it in many other places in Nepal. Made with buffalo milk and traditionally served in a small clay cup, we think you’ll fall in love at first taste. We sure did!

Wander around the narrow alleyways, and take a moment to appreciate the blend of old and new all around you.

Be Warned: If you’re walking around on a Saturday, don’t be surprised if you see an animal sacrifice — this is a common sight, so you may stumble upon it.

Only have time for one Durbar Square? Here’s our Personal Opinion… We found Kathmandu’s Durbar Square to be underwhelming compared to that of Bhaktapur. And we heard wonderful things about the square in Patan. So if you are limited on time and can only visit one ancient site, we would recommend either Bhaktapur or Patan.

7. See Wildlife

Did you know Nepal has dolphins? Say whaaat?! And tigers, and bears, and rhinos, crocodiles, and elephants… and that’s just a handful of the fascinating creatures that call this country home.

The easiest (and more popular) place to see wildlife in Nepal is at Chitwan National Park. We’re going through what you can see there as well as a less popular alternative to Chitwan.

Chitwan National Park

Many people think of countries in Africa when they imagine safaris, but Nepal has its very own “safari capital”: Chitwan National Park. It is one of the most accessible places to see wildlife in Nepal and offers visitors a very good chance of spotting several different animals.

There are different types of “safari” options to choose from, and you can explore the park in dugout canoes, in Jeeps, or on foot.

Responsible Travel Note: Pass on the Elephant Safaris offered around town. We assume you already know that elephant riding is a no-no (as it is harmful to the animals). And if you feel comfortable, politely voice your opinion to tour operators, as elephant riding has been practiced for many years in Chitwan, but this is starting to change because people are bringing up their concerns.

If you’d like to see elephants in an ethical way, Tiger Tops Elephant Camp in Chitwan National Park claims to be the first and only operator offering responsible elephant encounters. We have not experienced this activity ourselves, so we can’t personally vouch for it. Side note: You can stay onsite at Tharu Lodge, which looks absolutely divine!

Where to stay in Chitwan National Park:

Barahi Jungle Lodge

We’re not putting a ton of accommodation options in this article, but we’re making an exception… We heard so many rave reviews about the Barahi Jungle Lodge that we will definitely be staying there the next time we travel to Nepal.

Room prices start at upwards of $200 USD, so it’s certainly not for all travelers. However, with an onsite pool, attentive staff, and rave reviews, it looks like it might be worth the splurge. Plus, it’s located 100 meters from the National Park, yet is tucked away from the touristy part of the town.

Can’t swing that much money for a hotel? We have a less expensive option for you…

Budget Accommodation: Happy Lemon Tree Lodge

With river views and a terrace for mingling with other travelers, this place will make you really feel like you’re “in nature”. It is very basic accommodation, but also very cheap!

Bardia National Park

Located in the far west of Nepal, it is more time consuming to get to Bardia than Chitwan, so this National Park is far less popular.

We read that Bardia National Park is “what Chitwan used to be, before the tourists”. So if you’re looking to get away from the crowds and don’t mind a bit of an adventure getting there, Bardia National Park might be a good addition to your trip to Nepal.

While Bardia has most of the same animals as Chitwan, it is famous for having the best chances of spotting the elusive Bengal Tiger in the wild.

Word to the wise: Just know that, like any other wild animal encounters, it is not guaranteed you will see a tiger. If this will ruin your trip, don’t go.

8. Go Shopping for Souvenirs

Looking for something to bring home to remember your time in Nepal? Or are you a generous soul who is planning to pick up something special for your friends and family back home?

We love collecting meaningful things from our travels, and have come up with a list of interesting items to pick up in Nepal.

Here is a list of some of the best souvenirs to get in Nepal:

Singing Bowls

You know that golden bowl your yoga teacher pulls out at the end of class that makes a deep vibration? (Anyone else?!) That’s called a “singing bowl”, and they originated in Tibet. You’ll be able to find them all around Nepal, but the highest-quality singing bowls are said to be in Patan, a “suburb” of sorts just south of Kathmandu center.

Tip: Machine-made singing bowls sound higher pitched, while true handmade singing bowls have a deeper sound. Reputable shops often have both on hand to show you the difference.

Price: For a quality, handmade singing bowl, we were told to expect to pay between $40 – $70 USD. For large bowls, prices can get into the hundreds of dollars.

You’ll find everything from blankets to scarves to sweaters, and the best place to get your cashmere fix is Pokhara. Look for cashmere that is tightly woven so it won’t snag, and high quality material should be soft and have a sort of “bounce” where it pops back to life after being squished.

Price: I paid 2,000 rupees ($18 USD) for a large Cashmere blanket. It feels like nice quality, but the weave is a bit looser and the edge looks like it might fray over time, so a higher quality blanket might cost a bit more.

Yak Wool Blankets

More durable than cashmere, these blankets are not quite as soft, but they are still cozy and beautiful. They make a great souvenir, especially if you have pets that you know would destroy a pretty cashmere throw!

Prices can vary, but I was quoted 850 rupees (after the price was dropped) for a blanket that looked very nice. I ended up not getting it because I didn’t have room in my bag.

Himalayan Salt

Sounds weird, but bringing back some pink Himalayan rock salt is a nice (and super practical!) souvenir or gift to share with family and friends. I mean, you’re getting it from the source, right?! Also, black Himalayan salt is a rarity in many parts of the world, but at local markets you can find this stuff for cheap.

Price: I got 2 medium chunks of black Himalayan salt for just 50 rupees (less than 50 cents!). A friend of ours bought a kilo to bring to her mother (who is a chef — go figure!), and she paid only 500 rupees (less than $5 USD).

Prayer Flags

If you’ve ever wanted colorful prayer flags for your home or garden, Nepal is a perfect place to get them! We bought a string of them in Namche Bazaar, during our trek to EBC, but you can easily find them all around the country. 

You’ll have no shortage of options when it comes to finding jewelry in Nepal. Whether you just want something inexpensive and pretty, or you want a fine piece of jewelry with deeper meaning, like a Buddhist prayer bead necklaces, there’s a variety to choose from.

“Tiger Moving Game” (Bagh Chal)

If you like quirky souvenirs, you might be a fan of this strategic 2-player board game that originated in Nepal. With 4 tigers and 20 goats, the rules are just as you’d expect. Tigers try to “hunt” the goats, and goats, well, try to live!

9. Take a scenic flight over the Himalayas

There’s no arguing Nepal is best known for Mount Everest, ahem , the tallest mountain in the whole damn world! And measuring in at 8,848 meters (that’s 29,030 feet for our American friends!), it’s a pretty impressive peak.

Hopefully the rest of this article has proven to you that there is more to Nepal than Mount Everest. But it’s still a pretty incredible part of the country. And if you’ve ever dreamed of getting up close and personal, but don’t have the time or ability to trek to Base Camp (or the interest — that’s okay too!), there is still a way you can get close to this iconic peak…

Consider taking a scenic flight that brings you up close to the most famous mountain in the world.

I’ll tell you right now, that Everest isn’t the only show-stopper on the journey. You’ll be surrounded by Himalayan beauties on all sides, and it is truly a sight to behold. Search for Ben’s personal favorite peak, Ama Dablam, which rises up in perfect pyramid shape.

The flight itself will be short, so take in the views and appreciate this opportunity to see right before your eyes what many people only dream about.

Note: The photo at the top was taken at the runway in Lukla. While a bit scary, this flight alone is pretty darn scenic, and most people doing the EBC trek take this flight.

10. Volunteer in Nepal

I’m going to start this section out with a warning: If you plan to volunteer in Nepal (or in any country for that matter), please be very mindful about your decisions.

Volunteering abroad sounds like a wonderful thing, and it can be. But it can also be devastating to communities if you don’t go about it in the right way .

Ethical Volunteering in Nepal

Here are some basic things to keep in mind as you choose an ethical volunteer opportunity:

Orphanages are not ethical volunteer placements ( read more about why ).

You should not be doing skilled work that you’re not trained for. (Example: you should not be performing medical work unless you are a trained doctor).

If you plan to work with children, be very careful about the organization you choose to work with. Also, be sure you have enough time to stay for an extended period of time. Think about it: If you teach English for a week and then are replaced by another short-term volunteer, are the children really learning? Probably not.

Be sure you’re not taking a job away from a local who needs it.

Research the organization you’re working with and ask them tough questions if necessary.

Is there a volunteer fee? Be sure you understand exactly how your money is being used. Does it go back into the community, or is someone profiting?

Make sure your head is in the right place: Why are you volunteering? To feel good about yourself? To post photos on Facebook? To save money on your travels? It’s okay if those reasons are part of your desire to volunteer, but they shouldn’t be the driving factor. You should be passionate about wanting to help and to make a difference; even if you don’t get a “feel good moment” or an Instagram-worthy shot.

Alright, now that we’ve gone over those important things to keep in mind, let’s dig a little deeper and discuss what type of volunteer opportunities you’ll find in Nepal.

There are a ton of volunteering opportunities on Workaway * — we found 104 hosts in Nepal at the time of writing this article.

Volunteer on a Farm

You’ll find yoga teaching, hostel work, construction, teaching English, and more on Workaway. But you might notice the vast majority of the opportunities in Nepal are farm work, and we would highly recommend this type of volunteer experience.

Farm work may not be the most glamorous, but it can be a good way to volunteer in a meaningful and ethical way if you have a limited amount of time.

You’ll get to see a totally different side of Nepal than most tourists see, and you’ll be able to get to know a local family. You can also learn a ton about the earth, sustainability and permaculture.

We’ve worked on 2 organic farms — one in Ecuador and one in Thailand — and they were some of our favorite travel experiences. Yes, seriously!

I mean take a look at this volunteer gig on an organic tea farm ! It has been reviewed by 162 volunteers and has a 100% rating! When we traveled to Nepal for the first time in 2016, we really wanted to stay a bit longer and volunteer on this farm. But time got away from us. Maybe someday we’ll get there!

There are other platforms out there, but we have found Workaway has a variety of opportunities, and is easy to use.

We can’t vouch for the quality of all opportunities, but if you look through feedback of past volunteers, you can usually decipher which experiences will be epic and impactful, and which ones will be meh…

*Note: You can read descriptions of the volunteer opportunities on Workaway, but in order to contact the host, you must sign up for a membership, which costs $42 per year. It can be a good investment if you’d like to volunteer during your travels. Most opportunities on Workaway are FREE for volunteers. You may be asked to pay a small amount of money for room and board, but it won’t be like the big volunteer projects that charge thousands of dollars.

Are you planning to visit Nepal soon?

We have TONS of other articles on Nepal that we think you’ll like. Check out our Nepal Homepage for all the important travel information, or read some of our favorite articles below.

Ultimate Nepal Travel Guide: Everything you need to know

Everest Base Camp Trekking Guide

EBC & Gokyo Lakes 17-day Trekking Itinerary

Everest Base Camp Trek Packing List

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We want to hear from you!

Are you planning on going to Nepal? That things to do in Nepal interest you? Is there anything we miss on this list? Let us know know in the comments below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!

Comments (9) on “ 10 Best Things to Do in Nepal ”

Wonderful article. Very comprehensive and informative Information. Thanks a lot for sharing so much. I would love to visit this amazing place. Good you explained everything in detail it has been a great help. Thank you for sharing your brilliance. Image are very nice.

Awesome Article!!!

Nepal is a wonderful destination as well as a wonderland for travelers those who love nature most. In Nepal, there are infinite things to do which might not be possible with a single visit.

Such an awesome page. Really loved the pictures the content keep sharing such things very helpful.

Wow, Katie and Ben, you are amazing. I found a very impressive blog all about things to do in Nepal. Thank you for sharing this insightful blog post. I appreciate the way you presented your ideas in a clear and organized manner, making them easy to follow and understand. Your writing style is engaging and your perspective on the topic is thought-provoking. I look forward to reading more of your posts in the future.

Awesome Article!! Superb Informative.

Great Content. Superb Informative.

Awesome Article!!! Really, my soul is pleased with your wonderful words which speak about Nepal. Nepal is a wonderful destination as well as a wonderland for travelers those who love nature most. In Nepal, there are infinite things to do which might not be possible with a single visit.

If you need to know more about activities to do in Nepal, you can even check this blog here… https://www.hopnepal.com/about-nepal/things-to-do-in-nepal

Thank you, Samuel, for your kind comment!

I went to Nepal last year and went for the Poon hill trek but unfortunately couldn’t complete it. Now that you’ve mentioned an ‘easier’ option (Balthali village), I would definitely check it out next time (planning for a longer trip in October). Can you share a proper guide/link for Balthali? Thanks for the post anyway.

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• Top 25 best places to visit in Nepal

A lot of beautiful places are there to see in Nepal ; so, literally, it becomes quite difficult to find a perfect destination. From trekking in the incredible amazing mountainous region to exploring the historically embellished legendary cities, there are, indeed, so many places to go in Nepal.

So, to slice down your options, I have explained the top 25 destinations in Nepal in this blog. Those 25 places are random, so if you didn’t like the first option then go next and next until the number 25 to find the right place. I believe you will find the destination of your choice after going through each of the places.

Plus, the descriptions are not detailed, because you might get bored hearing all about the trip at once. If you felt like the description of the place is not enough, then comment or mail us. I promise to reply to you as soon as possible.

Now, catch a virtual tour and fly with the words.

Kathmandu Valley

Kathmandu  is enriched with diverse cultures and the remarkable architecture of ancient times. This diversity invites a variety of rituals and traditional practices in the city, whose inspirations are directly or indirectly linked with historical events.

Such practices are more prevalent in the antique cities of Nepal such as Patan and Bhaktapur where the legendary Durbar Squares (historic palaces) stand loud and proud of their unique architecture and aesthetic appeal. Therefore, people sometimes say that walking in the Kathmandu valley feels like traveling back in time. This city is, indeed, a living museum of Nepal.

If you are a passionate photographer, or a curious explorer or traveler, then Kathmandu exploration can be an ideal option for you.

Trip Facts:

• Namche Bazaar

Namche is a vibrant town in the Everest region of Nepal. It is adorned with beautiful monasteries (gompas), colorful prayer flags, erect Chortens, and spinning prayer wheels. Most importantly, Namche is famous for its viewpoints that offer outstanding views of the far-stretching mountain panorama including Mt. Everest.

It is a feeling of being out of the world. Besides, there are museums to explore and local Sherpas to talk with about their legendary culture and tradition.

Because of its long history of trading, Namche became privileged to grow parallel with modern technological advancements. It is still a commercial center and a popular tourist attraction.

Namche fits best for culture lovers and mountain dreamers as that are for what the people come to Nepal. If you want to inspire your kids for photography, then take them to Namche on an Everest Panorama trek. It is so vivid up there.

Being the birthplace of Lord Buddha , Lumbini has gained more popularity these days as a spiritual center. People, from all over the world, come to meditate in the open meadows with the sole purpose of attaining peace in mind.

While there are aesthetically appealing monasteries (over 25, built by the representatives of various nations) as well, Lumbini is still reckoned as a sacred site among the Buddhists and Hindus. There are a lot of historical monuments to see and stumble across.

Lumbini has no magical monuments to leave you jaw-dropping, but if you are a peace-seeker or monastery explorer, then Lumbini can give you all that you want.

Established in 1973, Chitwan National Park soon got listed in the book of World Heritage Sites (1984) because of its wilderness. It is the home for over 650 species of birds, a countless variety of mammals (Royal Bengal Tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, Deer, etc.), and reptiles (python, crocodiles, etc.) that make Chitwan the top destination among nature lovers.

The Rapti river, flowing through the woods of this National Park, shelters two species of crocodiles- Gharials and Muggers- and a Gangetic Dolphin which is rarely sighted jumping in the water of the Rapti.

Chitwan is best for Photography. Also, exploring the wilderness of Chitwan is full of fun. This trip can be best for the family.

Upper Mustang

Upper Mustang is a restricted site of Nepal that had its own royal kingdom within the territory of Nepal until recently in 1950. This place remained untouched from the globalizing world for centuries; as a result, the authentic taste of ancient culture still lingers in the air of the upper Mustang.

There are beautiful palaces, and labyrinth-like tall caves to join and spend your time in. Otherwise, there is nothing to see except a far-stretching deserted plain. Exploring the upper mustang is analogous is visiting Tibet as the upper mustang is a part of a Tibetan plateau. It is a unique experience to be there.

Upper Mustang is the choice of braves as the trail is very difficult to pass through and the air is mostly dusty by the winds. Only if you have the gut to challenge yourself in every step can you attempt this trek.

Annapurna Base Camp

Annapurna Base Camp is a fabulous spot to gaze upon the incredible mountain panorama to the north. To rise to the base camp of Annapurna, the trail leads us through the base camp of Machhapuchre that gives us another advantage of exploring the base camps of two mountain peaks.

On the Annapurna Base Camp, there are 5 lodges- each of which offering its unique views of the mountain peaks. During clear weather, the astounding rock wall of Annapurna I dominates the northern skyline, while the southern part highlights the Hiunchuli peak (6441 m).

To sum up, rising to the Annapurna Base camp is a unique way to revel in the beauty of Nepal.

Annapurna Base Camp can be suitable for those hikers or trekkers who are trying to escape the routine of their life.

Everest Base Camp and Kalapatthar (Black Rock)

Being the world’s highest peak , Everest has its own introduction- the top of the world . Many people dream to be on top of the world. However, not everybody could combat the altitude pressure and low oxygen content in Everest.

For those people, rising to the  Everest Base Camp only can provide enough satisfaction as climbing Everest. After all, it is the best possible way to witness Everest in its proximity.

From the base camp, the views are outstanding (unignorable). Plus, a few hours away from the base camp, a Kalapatthar vantage point awaits that induces a spiritual vibe as you rise onto its top. It is a heavenly experience.

If you dream of Everest, then this is a perfect choice. Or else, you may get knocked off by the altitude pressure and low oxygen content in the higher atmosphere of Everest.

Mardi Himal Base Camp

The route to Mardi Himal Base Camp has been recently opened, so the trails are quite fresh and off-the-beaten. The trek to the Mardi Himal Base Camp has sometimes been nicknamed a ridge trek as most of the time, the trekkers have to walk along the ridge.

From the base camp (viewpoint) of Mardi Himal, the views are simply fascinating with snow-capped peaks of Annapurna-I, Annapurna South, Himchuli, Annapurna Fang, Khangshar Kang, Gangapurna, etc. peeking at the spectator all the time. It receives only a handful of tourists so the roads and authenticity of mountains are still intact.

Mardi Himal Base Camp can be good for beginners but recommended to only experienced trekkers.

Bardiya National Park

Bardiya National Park is an unspoiled habitat of over 250 species of birds, 30 species of mammals, and several reptiles. In contrast to the Chitwan, the probability of encountering a royal Bengal tiger during jungle safari is more at Bardiya because it receives very fewer visitors.

Apart from the wildlife, the culture of the Terai people is sublime in this region. The Tharus are proud of their unique way of living by fishing and their dances are startling. Explore this isolated (apparently) habitat of wildlife in Nepal.

Photography is best in Bardiya National Park.

Palpa is an epic city of Nepal. Being ruled by the Sens for more than a century, this region was greatly influenced by the arts and architecture. The brilliant Rani Mahal , above the huge rock on the bank of the Kaligandaki river, is sometimes compared with the Taj Mahal of India as the construction of both these palaces was for the queens.

Plus, there are dozens of temples distributed in a wide plain of Palpa. The Tansen of Palpa is famous for the souvenirs and handicraft items. There are resting places (Chautaris) where a Gandharva (a singing clan) plays the sarangi (violin) and sings a song. It is a unique experience to explore the Palpa of Nepal.

Palpa can be a wonderful place to visit if you are an explorer or history lover.

Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve

Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is the only hunting permitted section of Nepal . The hunting enthusiasts can play with the wild blue sheep and hunt them. Although hunting reserve sounds more like random hunting, it is not true in reality as only limited species of animals could be hunted.

Besides, there are meadows, stretching in a wider arena, that offer outstanding views of the mountains and ridges of the Himalayas. While hunting in the Dhorpatan is something special, there are other activities to enroll in besides hunting.

Hunting can be a passion for someone. If you belong there, then go for this activity.

Nuwakot is sometimes called the "Forgotten Land of Heroes" as this is the place from where the great King Prithvi Narayan Shah (unifier of Nepal) started his unification campaign. As important as the history of Nuwakot is, its development as a cultural center also has an interesting story.

The 7-storey Nuwakot Durbar Square, standing on top of the hill, dominates the rest of the settlements and shines in its own charm. There are intricately inscribed carvings and sculptures scattered throughout the palace arena.

This durbar square is also known as the 'Naulakha Durbar' as for the construction of this mansion, 9 lakh rupees (approx. $9000) was spent.

Nuwakot can be the best choice for those who love history and are looking for short trips from Kathmandu .

Namo Buddha

Located in an ideal natural setting, Namo Buddha is a purely spiritual hub . The views of the incredible mountain panoramas, rising far beyond the eyes, are indeed a rare glimpse of nature.

Having said that, the monastery premises is itself a wonderful place to stay as the delicate designs and intrepid paintings of Buddha inside the main hall induce a peaceful vibe. There is also a meditation center, where one can sit and meditate.

The monks and other authorities of the monastery believe that the different pictures of Buddha inside the monastery are the behavioral characteristics of a human, which helps a meditator to gain control over his emotions. It is indeed a heavenly spot.

Best with anybody.

Pokhara is a naturally blessed city of Nepal , surrounded by verdant hills and mountain panoramas on all sides. The beautiful lakes and splendid waterfalls are the important attractions of this site. Plus, the popularity of paragliding , Bungee jumping , zip flying, etc. has helped grow Pokhara into a lovely destination.

For the last few decades, this place has been the eye of explorers as there are a lot of things to see and explore. There are unexplored hiking trails and mystical caves around the valley of Pokhara, which are a few of the many surprises that this city has to offer.

Being enriched by the floral and faunal diversity, Pokhara has all the reasons to give you an experience of being out of the world .

The Pokhara trip can be perfect for the family or couples.

Dolpa (Dolpo)

Dolpo is a culturally rich remote region of far-western Nepal. This place is isolated from the rest of the world, and the people living here are nomadic traders. During the summer, they grow millet, barley, and other commodities in the soil and when the winter approaches, they travel across the Himalayas for trading purposes.

In the meantime, the Dolpo becomes vacant. The lifestyles of these people greatly correspond with the ancestral way of living such as the firewood, they use yak dung, etc. To explore these unique vivacities of Nepal is in itself an adventure. Let us venture together.

Dolpo is only for the daredevils.

The temple of Muktinath is dedicated to Lord Vishnu- one of the three superior Hindu deities. This place is religiously established and is surprisingly interesting. The natural water extruding out of the tap-like sculptures is mixed with the natural gas, so there is an eternal flame on one side of this temple.

This place is considered sacred in a sense the four elements- earth, water, air, and fire- fuse in a natural way. Plus, we can find a lot of Shaligrams (ammonites) in this region, which is regarded as the manifestation of Lord Vishnu in the form of a stone. Many people from India, as well as Nepal, come to this site to take a sacred bath from the 108 holy fountains.

Muktinath is purely a spiritual place, so you may go with any family or friends.

Thorong La Pass (5,416 m)

Thorong La Pass is the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit trail , connecting the Manang village in the east to the holy Muktinath temple in the west. This path used to be the yak caravan routes in the past, where the traders brought their commodities and exchanged them with the Tibetans for salt.

Besides history, this place is a naturally ideal vantage point, offering good views of the lower hills and snowy peaks around. As beautiful as this place is, it is equally challenging to make it to the top of the Thorong La pass as every step feels like running in a marathon.

Only the daredevil should try this.

Tengboche is a small village in the northern Himalayas of Nepal which has its own immense cultural pride and aesthetically appealing beauty. The artistically embellished monastery at Tengboche is the largest of its kind in the Everest region of Nepal .

Inside the monastery, there are brilliantly carved statues and soul-appealing paintings of Buddha, epitomizing the certain characteristics of the human being. As this place is close to Everest, one can witness the Everest peak from proximity. This village can be reached after Pangboche (the entrance point of the Ama Dablam Base Camp) and before Dingboche.

Best for anybody.

Ama Dablam Base Camp

Ama Dablam peak can be witnessed on the way to the Everest Base Camp . While the surrounding views from the Ama Dablam Base Camp are not quite special, the views on the way to Ama Dablam Base Camp are inspiring.

The more you soar higher, the better the views become. The snowy pinnacles appear glittering when the sun smiles from the eastern horizon. This is once in a lifetime view.

However, it is not easy to reach the base camp of the Ama Dablam because of the icy and sloppy terrain. It is considered to be harder than reaching the base camp of Everest. But that difficulty is compensation for good views.

Only self-motivated explorers can complete this trek.

Langtang Valley

Lantang is a sensational valley as the views of landscapes and mountain panoramas appear unworldly from a distance. The climate and the geography of this region are perfect for all kinds of activities

. Before the earthquake hit Nepal in 2015, the Langtang region received more recognition and a heavy inflow of tourists than Everest and Annapurna. However, the destruction caused by the earthquake threatened the journey-maker to kick off on this trek again.

Relative to other destinations, it may be challenging for a traveler to climb the sloppy terrain of Langtang . But the views are truly incredible. If you love mountains, then this place is where you should visit, at least once in a lifetime.

Only for self-motivated trekkers.

Manaslu is known for its authentic taste of rural lifestyle and its culturally shaped local inhabitants . To preserve this core asset of Manaslu, the government of Nepal permits only a limited number of trekkers to venture on the terrain of Manaslu.

You will require a special permit (not TIMS) to travel across this restricted region of Nepal. Much of the rituals and beliefs of the people of Manaslu are inspired by the Tibetan culture or, so to speak, Tibetan Buddhism.

It is a heavenly experience. Apart from being culturally rich, Manaslu offers wonderful views of the mountain vistas as well. All in all, it is one of the best places to visit in Nepal.

Only for the adventure lover.

Shivapuri National Park

Shivapuri National Park is enriched with a variety of floral and faunal species . This forest shelters countless species of endemic plants and endangered mammals such as the Himalayan Black Bear, Rhesus Monkey, Barking Deer, etc. Because of these attractions, this place has been receiving a significant number of tourists each year.

Particularly popular as a family destination, the Shivapuri National Park is a top vacation spot among the inhabitants of Kathmandu. If you are a passionate hiker or nature lover, then you must visit this place.

Best with the Family, friends, or couples.

The sunrise view from the top of Poon Hill is sometimes admired as a heavenly glimpse of nature . Indeed, this compliment well suits what this vantage point offers. As the sun slowly rises over the snowy horizon, far from the eyes, the verdant hills turn gradually golden in color.

For a moment, it feels like a kaleidoscope of colors and energy is spreading in an infinite space. Because of this amazing scenario, trekkers in the Annapurna region at least take a side trip to this amazing region of Nepal. This makes this spot one of the must-visit sites in Nepal.

Best with family or friends.

Anyone who visits Pokhara rarely misses the sunrise from the viewpoint of Sarangkot. Similar to that of Poon Hill , the Sarangkot sunrise view is one of the best glimpses of nature and has the beauty to win the title of the best short hikes in Nepal .

The hike to Sarangkot takes you along the pleasant trail fenced by the lush farm fields and the hamlets of indigenous Gurungs. Seeing the view from the Sarangkot is not only a beautiful memory but a spiritual experience . It is best to venture on this trek with your family or friends.

Bandipur has a long trading history. In the past, Bandipur used to be the center of commercial activities, so the Newars of Bhaktapur, who were one of the passionate traders of Kathmandu valley, fled to Bandipur for trading.

Later, they settled there. Because of that, most of the houses in Bandipur are built in typical Newari-style architecture. This place is well developed and is famous for its viewpoint that can be reached either via hiking or via a car or a Jeep.

Watching the mountains smile in whitish snow is indeed a rare glimpse of nature. Travel to Bandipur with your family as there is a lot to see and explore.

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