nepal popular places to visit

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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The best places to visit in Nepal, from mountains to Buddha's birthplace

Jan 9, 2022 • 8 min read

Old man turning a prayer wheel at Bodhnath Stupa, Nepal

Nepal is as much about its stunning sacred sights as its magnificent mountains © John Harper / Getty Images

Nepal is the destination with everything: towering Himalayan peaks and world-class trekking, sacred religious sites and wildlife-rich forests – not to mention well-preserved medieval architecture, tranquil hilltop towns and impressive culinary diversity.

Almost everyone visits Kathmandu, and most people take a trek through the Everest or Annapurna ranges – if you’re not sure where else to go in Nepal, try our list of places that shouldn’t be missed, from national parks patrolled by one-horned rhinos to hotspots for mountain adventure sports.

Kathmandu, Nepal's historic, foodie capital

Best for eating out.

An atmospheric old town, countless temples, shrines and religious sites, buzzing markets and several fascinating museums and galleries – plus a fair share of traffic and pollution – combine to make the Nepali capital a riot for the senses.

History and culture are the main draws for visitors to Kathmandu , but the city also has a remarkably varied dining scene, catering to visitors from across the globe. Alongside excellent Nepali cuisine, you can find everything from Korean bulgogi (barbecued beef), Japanese sushi and Thai curries to French crêpes, Austrian schnitzel and Middle Eastern falafel.

The Himalayas, the world's favorite trekking destination

Best for trekking.

Dominated by eight of the world’s ten highest mountains, the Nepali Himalayas stretch the length of the country and offer unparalleled trekking opportunities. The scenery is awe-inspiring – soaring snow-covered peaks, gin-clear lakes, terraced green hills, remote villages, chains of fluttering prayer flags. Best of all, you can hit the trails with minimal admin, beyond obtaining a Trekkers’ Information Management Systems (TIMS) card and paying any national park fees.

The Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit and Langtang Valley treks are the most popular routes for travelers, but there are many other less-trodden but equally spectacular routes to follow. The dramatic two- to three-week trek to the base of the third tallest mountain, Kanchenjunga, in the far east of Nepal, is a stunning route that sees just a handful of trekkers.

A trekker walking at Dingboche in the Everest region

Bodhnath, Kathmandu's most spectacular stupa

Best for tibetan buddhist culture.

The largest stupa (dome-shaped Buddhist monument) in Asia sits in the heart of the Kathmandu Valley, in the village of Bodhnath (also known as Boudha) on the outskirts of Kathmandu. The shrine is a hub of Tibetan Buddhist culture in exile, and thousands of pilgrims travel here daily to make a kora (ritual circumambulation) of the resplendent white stupa, which is best visited in the late afternoon after most tourists have departed.

Bodhnath is also a popular place for travelers to study Tibetan Buddhism, with a wide range of courses, seminars and talks on offer. Duck into the backstreets to see Nepal's most skilled repoussé metalworkers in action.

Meet tigers and rhinos in Chitwan National Park

Best for spotting rhinos.

A royal hunting ground in the 19th century, Chitwan became Nepal’s first national park in 1973 and has since earned international recognition for its conservation efforts, with growing populations of rhinos and tigers in the marshlands and forests flanking the confluence of the Rapti and Narayani Rivers.

Located in the western Terai, the thin ribbon of low-lying land running across southern Nepal, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the finest places to view wildlife in South Asia. Its forests, grasslands, marshes and rivers are home to a profusion of animal and bird species, most notably a large population of one-horned rhinos, which have recovered from the brink of extinction thanks to some smart conservation practices.

A one-horned rhino at a watering hole in Nepal

Bhaktapur, Nepal's best-preserved medieval town

Best for medieval architecture.

Although badly affected by the devastating 2015 earthquake, the Kathmandu Valley city of Bhaktapur remains an architectural treasure trove, with an astonishing collection of well-preserved buildings dating back 600 years or more, including temples, palaces and traditional brick and timber homes.

There are three main squares flanked by temples and palaces, a maze of cobbled alleyways lined with red-brick shops and houses and innumerable tucked-away courtyards, shrines, pagodas and pavilions. A walk through Bhaktapur, which was once an independent kingdom, feels like a journey back in time, particularly if you stay overnight and see the city after the daytrippers have gone home.

Pokhara, gateway to the Annapurna range

Best for adventure sports.

Located on the shore of shimmering Phewa Lake, gazing up at the jagged Annapurna and Manaslu mountain ranges, the city of Pokhara is Nepal’s adventure sports capital. Travelers come here in droves to relax on the lakeshore and indulge in exhilarating activities in the surrounding mountain valleys.

As well as being the jumping-off point for some of Nepal's most popular treks (including the famous Annapurna Circuit), Pokhara is an excellent place to organize whitewater rafting, kayaking, mountain biking, canyoning and paragliding trips in the surrounding countryside, as well as straight-up adrenaline-charged activities such as bungee jumping and ziplining.

Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha

Best for a buddhist pilgrimage.

A short drive west of the Terai town of Siddharthanagar (also known as Bhairawa), Lumbini is one of Buddhism’s holiest sites. In the middle of the Sacred Garden, the Maya Devi Temple marks the precise spot where Siddhartha Gautama – better known as the Buddha – was born in 563 BCE.

This intensely sacred site is surrounded by a vast complex filled with temples built in a wild variety of architectural styles by Buddhist communities from around the world, alongside a museum, cultural center and a towering white-and-gold peace pagoda in a park often visited by Sarus cranes.

Encounters with royal history in Gorkha

The best for hilltop palaces.

In the Middle Hills, Gorkha was the hometown of Prithvi Narayan Shah, who unified the warring kingdoms of Nepal in 1769 and founded a long-lasting royal dynasty that endured (with one short period of disruption) until Nepal became a republic in 2008.

The king was born in the 16th-century Gorkha Durbar , a spectacular palace-temple-fort complex in an elevated position high above town and accessed via a steep, meandering trail. Although Gorkha was close to the epicenter of the powerful 2015 earthquake, its buildings survived relatively unscathed and most damaged structures have since been restored.

Tables in the town square in Bandipur, Nepal

Bandipur, Nepal's most charming hill getaway

Best for a relaxing getaway.

An enchanting town perched on a ridge in the Middle Hills, high above the road from Kathmandu to Pokhara, Bandipur has been described as a “living museum” thanks to its array of 18th-century Newari mansions and temples.

Once an important stop-off on the lucrative India-Tibet trade route, it offers a captivating mélange of attractive guest houses, charming cafes, pedestrianized streets, dotted shrines, sublime vistas and numerous day hikes, making it an ideal spot for a break from the crowds.

Bardia National Park, for quieter nature encounters

Best for safaris without the crowds.

Around 400km (249 miles) west of Chitwan, Bardia National Park is larger, covers a greater range of habitats and receives far fewer visitors than its more heralded counterpart. Accessed from the quiet village of Thakurdwara, the reserve has one-horned rhinos, tigers, elephants and leopards, as well as gharial crocodiles and rare Gangetic dolphins.

Although spotting these creatures may require a little more time and patience than in Chitwan, Bardia’s pristine landscapes and the absence of crowds of visitors disturbing the wildlife are more than ample compensation. Early morning and late afternoon safaris offer the best chances of animal encounters.

Janakpur, Nepal's other sacred city

Best for hindu temples.

In the eastern Terai, the city of Janakpur is often overlooked by travelers, yet its glorious Janaki Mandir is an architectural masterpiece and has huge significance in Hindu mythology. Dedicated to the goddess Sita – who, according to legend, was born and married the god Rama here – the baroque Mughal-style temple draws pilgrims from across Nepal and India.

Janakpur is also renowned for its exquisite Maithili paintings, an ancient art form that depicts stories from Hinduism, as well as scenes from everyday life in the Terai. You can buy works from local painters at the Janakpur Women’s Development Centre just outside of town.

Get Himalayan views without the hard work in Nagarkot

Best for watching the sunrise.

On a ridge just outside the Kathmandu Valley, the village of Nagarkot has one huge selling point: it offers panoramic views of eight Himalayan ranges, including Everest. It's one of the best spots to come for mountain views without the effort of trekking.

If you’re lucky enough to be here on a clear, cloud-free day – these are most common from October to December and March to April – the sight of this magnificent sprawl of snow peaks is mesmerizing, especially at sunrise.

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 .

You may also like: The Nepali mountaineer reclaiming the Himalaya How to plan your dream trip to the Himalayas How to trek to Everest Base Camp

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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.

Kathmandu City Map - Tourist Attractions

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.

Durbar Square Palace Area, Bhaktapur, Kathmandu Valley Map - Tourist Attractions

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.

Pokhara, Central Nepal Map - Tourist Attractions

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.

Chitwan National Park, Central Nepal - Floor plan map

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.

Swayambhunath Temple, Kathmandu Valley - Floor plan map

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.

Wild Bengal tiger in Bardiya National Park

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.

Lumbini, West Nepal Map - Tourist Attractions

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.

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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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.

Map of Nepal

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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

Best things to do in Nepal

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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.

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 © adrenalinrnb/Shutterstock

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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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

View of Swayambhunath Kathmandu, Nepal © Bon Appetit/Shutterstock

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-india-shutterstock_1059513656

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-asia-shutterstock_773496352

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-nepal-annapurna-shutterstock_529836175

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 in Bandhavgarh, India © Shutterstock

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, the best monastery in Khumbu valley, trek to Everest base camp, Sagarmatha national park, Khumbu valley, Nepal © Shutterstock

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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Top image © Jelena Yukka/Shutterstock

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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 .

Best Time to Visit Nepal

Mount Manaslu

Things to See in Nepal

Travelling with Gary

Plan, Execute and Record Your Dream Trip Here

Are you wondering where the best places to visit in Nepal are? Probably! Since you are reading this and all. Well, you have come to the right place. I have spent a lot of time travelling around Nepal and with so much to offer, it is essential to have a good idea of where to spend your precious time and money.

Nepal has been drawing in tourists from across the world for decades and for a good reason. It may be a small country, but it packs a big punch.

According to the Nepal tourist board, 41,304 tourists visited Nepal in august 2022. Now compare that with august 2019, 94,749 tourists visited.

That means tourism is recovering since the COVID-19 pandemic, but things are not so busy, making for a more authentic and enjoyable experience without the crowds. In short, there has never been a better time to go.

Where is Nepal Geographically Located?

Nepal is located in South Asia. It is an entirely landlocked country surrounded by India and China. The tiny country sits at the meeting point between the Eurasian and Indian tectonic plates. That fact means no other country in the world has such a more significant variation in Altitude.

Reason Why You Should Visit Nepal?

Wedged between the mystical world of Tibet and the steamy jungles of India , Nepal is the land of snow peaks and Sherpas. Yaks and yetis rule the bedtime stories in Nepal. The country is blessed with astonishing wildlife and breathtaking scenery.

I firmly believe there is something here for everyone. Let’s look at the more popular reasons to come, shall we?

Going Back To History

Even if you are not a history buff, you can’t help but be blown away by the astonishing architectural achievements that centuries of civilization have left behind. Exploring these places is sure to be a highlight of your trip

Dive into history with a visit to Hanuman Dhoka Square, the city’s UNESCO-listed Durbar Square, and roam its many temples.

Nepal Is A Trekkers’ Paradise

Nepal is famously home to eight of the world’s highest peaks and many of us want to challenge ourselves on them. The most popular is the world-famous Annapurna trek or the trek to the base camp of Mount Everest.

These are both incredible routes, but Nepal has no shortage of trekking options. Get a copy of The lonely planet guide to trekking in Nepal to research just some of the other routes and choose what one is right for you.

Adventure In Nepal

You don’t have to be trekking to get your adrenalin pumping. The country is fast becoming one of the biggest adventure capitals of the world. Nepal will make your heart skip a beat with its adventure activities offer.

Try white water rafting on the Indus river or hand-feeding vultures paragliding level alongside the snowy peaks of the mountains. Perhaps you want to try spelunking or bungee jumping off a bridge? Well, you can if you wish.

Nepal Has A Rich Wildlife

With the extreme elevation changes come many natural habitats and animals that live in them. This is a wildlife lover’s wet dream.

I strongly recommend Chitwan or Bardia national parks for their extraordinary diversity. Trekking on foot in the land of the tigers and elephants will have your heart pumping.

Nepal Is Culturally Diverse And Exciting

The cultural landscape of Nepal is as diverse as its natural. The people are primarily a mixture of Hindus and Buddhists. The culture of this country is unique and highly prominent. The way it is practised varies incredibly across the country.

Immersing yourself in an almost timeless way of life is always something every visitor vividly remembers.

Nepal Is The Birthplace Of Lord Buddha

Siddartha Gautama was born in the village of Lumbini in 623bc. That man was better known as the Buddha. Yes, it was a very real person. His life teachings of peace created a major world religion that will be familiar to many of us.

When To Visit Nepal?

When to visit Nepal is a tricky and extensive question to answer as it depends on what you are doing. I have been to Nepal in every season, and each has good and bad points. Please check out my post for an in-depth look at what you can expect during your stay and more useful things to know about travel.

How To Get A Nepal Visa?

Tourist visas for Nepal can be obtained on arrival at the Tribhuvan Airport in Kathmandu and at all land border crossings. You can also apply online if you want to have it before you turn up. It does not matter how you do it, as your tourist visa will cost the same and come in three flavours.

15 Days

A 15-day Nepali visas cost $30. They are suitable for those who do not plan on getting off the beaten track and are on a tight schedule.

30 Days

A 30-day Nepali visas cost $50. These are suitable for those who plan on focusing on one or two things, such as trekking, wildlife-watching, or taking up meditation. The complete Annapurna circuit is 18 days alone

90 Days

A 90-day Nepali visa is $125. These are suitable for those who want to see the country in-depth. You can get off the beaten track and explore the pristine wilderness.

Steps For Obtaining A Visa On Arrival in Nepal

There are several points to consider when buying a visa for Nepal but let me keep it brief.

Fill out Arrival Card

All foreign passengers must fill in the online international arrivals form and print it out. It is a mandatory requirement. Check out this link to the embassy of Nepal in London for the full breakdown of COVID-19 regulations and the link to the arrivals card or the CCMC.

Fill Online Tourist Visa Form

You can follow the link above if you want your visa before you turn up. To me, there is little need as you can quickly get one on arrival, providing you meet the requirements. It is a lot less hassle as you don’t need to go out of your way. You are already there, and it does not take long.

Make Payment

It is as simple as that. Make sure you read the guidelines and follow them. Turn up, fill in a form and make the payment.

Proceed Immigration

As with anywhere, you must make your way through the customs process. This may involve bag searches or long waits as it can be painfully slow.

Choose Payment Method

If you can make your payment in American dollars then I Surgeesd you do as this will give you the best conversion rate. You can pay in just about anything, which is very much a personal choice.

List Of Best Places To Visit In Nepal

Discuss If you want to get close to nature, you must visit Nepal at least once in your lifetime. And when you do so, some of these best tourist places in Nepal are a must-visit. Explain this heading in 1-2 paragraphs. Tips are as follows :

Pashupatinath Temple

○ Sitting on the banks of the murky Bagmati river Pashupatinath is one of Nepal’s most important temples. At first glance, you may not feel it is especially holy as it’s within spitting distance from the airport. However, visiting will surely be one of the standout cultural experiences of your trip.

Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most incredible places I have ever seen in my life. However, visiting here is nothing to take lightly. While this place is insanely atmospheric and well worth the entrance fee it is an active temple. It is also a place where Nepali people go to be cremated so they can obtain moksha. The Hindu right to gain entrance into Nirvana and break the cycle of reincarnation.

Boudanath

○ Boudanath is Asia’s largest stupa and here you can witness devotes make Kora (ritualistic circumnavigation.) The degree of devotion is quite breathtaking as the people make their trips around the base of the stupa come rain or shine as they prostrate over and over again.

Boudanath is the most accessible example of Tibetan culture I can think of as it is just a short bus ride from Kathmandu.

Nagarkot

○ Nagarkot is a small village 32 km from Kathmandu that enjoys unfettered views of the high Himalayas. The views of Everest and Kanchenjunga are breathtaking. However, they are only viable for a few months of the year.

The best times are between October and December. The second best is between March and April. Outside those times, the beautiful scenery will be lost behind the clouds.

Pokhra Valley

○ The Pokhara Valley is the second most popular place in Nepal for tourists as it is the staging post for the superb Annapurna circuit. Come here to enjoy incredible views of the high mountain peaks. You can engage in Paragliding, caving, boating, or simply relax with a glass of wine after a long trek.

Mahendra Gufa

○ The Mahendra Gufa was not discovered until the 1950s by shepherds despite its enormous size. Today it is one of the most popular tourist sights in the Pokhara Valley. The Mahendra Gufa is a set of caves with dramatic rock formations sure to impress. Just behind that is another colossal cave that contains a vast number of Horseshoe Bats.

Lumbini

○ The still tiny village of Lumbini is a delight to explore. Buddhist governments worldwide have all built their temples in honor of their lord. It appears that no government wants to be outdone by the next so the result is a spectacular collection of buildings for you to marvel at.

It is a deeply relaxing experience to wander the narrow forested paths that connect them. It is also a sanctuary for the rare Sirus Crane. Keep your eyes peeled for these enormous creatures.

Swayambhu Mandir

○ The Swayambhunath or monkey temple has to be one of the most famous temples in the whole country. This timeless little corner of the universe is visible from much of the city and it is very much iconic to Kathmandu.

It is strikingly spread across a hill and will take you a whole afternoon to explore. It is an active temple that is important to both Hindus and Buddhists. It is very hard not to appreciate the sense of calm that comes with visiting here. However, be prepared for a long hike up some steep steps to access it.

Thamel Area

○ Almost every tourist will visit Thamel in Kathmandu. It is the go-to place for tourists as they arrive in Nepal. Come here for dining on good food or shopping till you drop for souvenirs.

Bhaktapur

○ Bhaktapur is a whole town that is a living museum. It costs quite a bit to gain entrance and yHimalayas’ee all of this in a single day so I recommend staying at least one night here as it just makes sense. Not only does that work out much better value for money it will also give you time to explore the countless alleyways, courtyards, and ponds that make this village so damn moreish.

Chitwan National Park

○ Trek across the tropical jungles of the Terai to find the elusive tiger. You may also catch a glimpse of Leopards, Elephants, Sloth bears, Rhinos, or any other of the many impressive animals this park is home to.

Davis Falls

○ This impressive set of rapids is found in the Pokhara district. Davis falls was named after a swiss lady who drowned here in 1961. It is a massive waterfall cascading down the Himalayas’ foothills and has bored a 500-foot tunnel into the rock.

Phewa Lake

○ Phewa lake is also found in the Pokhara valley and is famous for its breathtaking views framed by the snowy mountains in the background. If you come in the right season the mountains reflect perfectly in the lake.

International Mountain Museum

○ This exciting museum is in central Pokhara and showcases exhibitions of the area’s indigenous cultures. Learning about the people you will trek to is well worth the time.

Khokana And Bungamati Villages

○ These two extraordinary villages are set in forested green hills full of living and active temples. This is a must for anyone who wants to experience Nepali culture at its most raw but does not want to walk very far.

Sagarmatha National Park

○ Sagarmatha is the Nepali word for Everest and views of the biggest peak on the planet dominate the park. It is home to both the common leopard and the snow leopard. You can also find musk deer or any of the 208 species of birds with a bit of luck.

Langtang National Park

○ Despite Langtang National Park being badly hit by the country’s earthquake. However, the people of this valley have returned back to their lives and the park is as beautiful as ever. Its close proximity to Kathmandu makes Langtang incredibly popular. The scenery is stunning and you can be there in a day from the capital.

Rupa Tal Lake

Rupa Tal Lake is a beautiful body of water in the Pokhara valley. Its forested shores are alluring to the best of us. Come here for boating, fishing, or simply walking in the lush forests.

Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve

○ Tucked into the far bottom left of the country, Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve receives few visitors, which is a crying shame.

Despite jeep-only safaris, it is a fantastic place to see a little of the country’s incredible biodiversity. It is famous for the vast numbers of swamp deer but there are many rewards for those who make an effort.

Khaptad National Park

○ Khaptad National Park is located in the Far-western region of Nepal. It is another of the country’s hidden gems. The park stretches across the heavily forested Mahabharat range and is a good choice for nature lovers.

It is also a pilgrimage site for many Nepalis. Its remote location puts many people off but I strongly recommend visiting if your itinerary allows it.

Dhulikhel

○ Dhulikhel is one of my favorite destinations in The Kathmandu valley. Tourists come here for the views but there is so much more. Dhulikhel is an authentic Newari Town with the opportunity for countless short walks in the Katmandus’s hills. This tiny little town gives tourists a chance to get into the Nepali countryside in just a quick bus journey.

Jomsom

○ Jomsom is an essential stop during the Annapurna trek. It is an important starting or finishing point for treks along the Kaligandaki or surrounding areas. Jomsom is the Mustang district’s capital, so plenty of welcomed amenities exist. It is also linked by road and not many places in the area are.

Kathesimbhu Stupa

○ Kathesimbhu Stupa is an essential place for heritage And Spirituality in Kathmandu. It is located between Thamel and Durbar Square. It makes for an interesting detour as you watch the local people go about their daily lives.

Garden Of Dreams

○ Katmandus’s garden of dreams has been described as a Neoclassical Marvel. It does not look like much from the outside but once you are through those gates you will be greeted by an immaculately landscaped garden in the middle of the city.

One minute you are in the capital’s bustling streets and then in a quiet, beautiful space. A garden of ponds, pavilions, and pagodas. Well worth the short detour.

Taudaha Lake

○ Taudha lake is on the outskirts of Kathmandu and is easily reached by bus or taxi. The lake is fringed by tiny Hindu shrines. It is a great place to simply observe Nepali culture or watch the vibrant birds in the trees.

How To Get Around In Nepal

Getting around in Nepal is a bit tricky. The distances between cities are not great, but the roads are mainly in terrible condition. Travelling can be painfully slow and the buses are not in the best conditions either.
You have a few options available, and now we will look at each in a bit more detail.

Tourist Buses In Nepal

Tourist buses are the most common way of travelling across Nepal for foreigners. These buses cost considerably more than public transport but tend to be in the best condition.
They frequent the most popular tourist sites such as Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan, and Bardia. If you are heading to these places they are ideal as they are direct and punctual.

Express Bus

These days, a few buses run between the major towns of Nepal that are faster and more comfortable. Express busses all over the country where there are roads, so they are a helpful resource if you want to get somewhere comfortably.
There is one person to one seat so there is not the same claustrophobic experience you get on public transport.

Minibusses

Minibuses travel on all the routes as tourist buses and other routes. They are cost-effective and very frequent.
However, they are primarily independently owned, so the more people they carry, the more money the owners will make. You can use your imagination about what that can be like.

Local buses

You will need to be adventurous if you try to travel across Nepal on local buses. It is my favourite way to travel as you get to meet the locals using this method is kind to your wallet.
Another significant advantage to getting the public bus is that they tend to stop much closer to town eliminating the need for expensive taxis on the other side.

Jeep or 4WD

You might not need to ride a jeep or 4WD unless you are off to remote places. As soon as you get off the beaten track this is often the only option as the road would ruin the suspension of most regular cars.
Travelling by jeep to these far-flung destinations is often an experience in itself. I have often found myself sharing my journey with livestock and household furniture as the local people need these to transport goods from one place to another.

Taxi

Like in any other place, you will get taxis to take you from one city to another. They are expensive but allow you to stop for pictures should you want one, not an option available for those of us on public transport.
There is no fixed rate for taxis so you should shop around and bargain hard for the best deals. Taxis are ideal for those people on short holidays where cost isn’t such a big issue.

Flight

Air travel is an essential part of Nepal’s transport network. Getting a plane can shave uncomfortable days off your trip and are certainly worth considering.
However, the air safety record is worse than the road safety record. You could argue that many of the runways cling precariously to the side of mountains. Or you could argue the planes are in terrible condition. Either way, these are the facts.

FAQs About Nepal

Here are the answers to the most common questions about Nepal.

What language is spoken in Nepal?

There are 123 recorded languages spoken in Nepal but the most common are Nepali and Maithali.

How Old Is Nepal?

Nepal was born about 40 to 50 million years ago when the Indian subcontinent crashed into Asia. The land was pushed upwards, which is why you can find many sea shells in the high mountains.

How Safe Is Nepal To Travel?

The Nepali people are some of the most friendly and hospitable people you could hope to meet. However, this volatile country has an ever-present danger of natural disasters. Please check your government website for the latest advice.

How many days do you need to visit Nepal?

That all depends on the purpose of your trip. Please remember things do not work like a well-oiled machine. Refer to the section above for when to use each kind of visa that suits your needs.

What Is the Average Temperature In Nepal?

That all depends on where you are. Nepal may be a small country but the temperature fluctuates wildly due to elevation. Here is the average temperature of the Kathmandu valley. Remember that this will be notably different than elsewhere in the country.

Summary of my post on the best places to visit in Nepal

I hope you have enjoyed reading this post. Also, it has answered some of your questions about the best places to visit in Nepal and where it is best for you to spend your time. Please do not hesitate to ask if you can think of anything else.

As you can probably see at this stage, Nepal has a lot to experience. In fact, there is a whole world of adventure just waiting for you to discover, so why wait? Start planning your dream today.

9 Things to do in Nepal + Tourist Spots

Nepal is the ultimate destination for mountain lovers. The Nepali Himalayas is the roof of the World, home to Mount Everest — the highest peak on earth.

Travelers who venture to this country soon discover that many more sights and experiences in this country, worth the long journey from home as well.

Nepal is home to medieval squares, for people who love to get lost in old cities. Sacred Tibetan Buddhist & Hindu sites for those who love to go a spiritual stroll. And, highland regions beyond Everest that offer great treks & stunning landscapes.

Is Nepal on your bucketlist? Inspire your trip with these must-visit places and top things to do for first-time travelers.

Location : Kaski District, Gandaki Province, west central Nepal . Save on Google Maps .

Pokhara is the second largest city of Nepal after Kathmandu. Three out of the ten highest mountains in the world — Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu — are near Pokhara, which makes it a popular gateway to the western side of the Nepali Himalayas. It’s a beautiful place to visit even if you’re not keen on trekking. This scenic lakeside city is surrounded by hills that make perfect viewing decks to see the Annapurna mountains from afar. Paragliding is very popular here and reportedly one of the cheapest in the world.

How to go :

Most travelers arrive in Pokhara by land from the capital, Kathmandu. The 200-kilometer journey takes around 6 to 7 hours by bus. Traveling by plane is the quickest way to get there. Kathmandu-Pokhara flights take only 40-minutes. This route is served by Nepal Airlines, Gorkha Airlines, Sita Air, Tara Air, Buddha Air, Simrik Airlines or Yet Airlines.

Pokhara Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts Check Fares

Top discounts

Nepal 4G SIM Card (Kathmandu pick-up)

Pokhara Ultralight Flight

7D6N Annapurna Base Camp Trek

7 Places to Visit in Pokhara + Things To Do

Nepal Travel Essentials:

Where to stay in Nepal (click below to see rates and book online) |

Nepal Fares & Transport

Nepal Tours & Discounts

Nepal WIFI/SIM Card

See also : Places to visit in India | Singapore Itinerary | Things to do in Malaysia .

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference.

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2. Mount Everest Region

Location : Sagarmatha National Park, east Nepal . Save on Google Maps .

Mount Everest, the Earth’s tallest, stands on the eastern side of Nepal. Even if you do not plan on trekking all the day to the summit, you’re assured of seeing incredible views of Everest, Lhotse and the other jagged peaks of this breathtaking region.

If you’re up for the hike, go on a trek to Everest Base Camp (EBC). The quickest way to get there is to fly to Lukla Airport (LUA), high on the Himalayas. From Lukla, it usually takes around 8 days to trek to the base camp. And, four days to get back down. The easier way to see breathtaking views of the Himalayas is to go on a mountain flight from Kathmandu that can get a close enough view of Mt. Everest and other supertall peaks in the region.

Everest Trek Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

Everest Base Camp Itinerary + Travel Guide

3. Kathmandu Valley

Location : Kathmandu Valley, west central Nepal . Save on Google Maps .

Kathmandu is not just Nepal’s capital and largest urban jungle, it is also one of the country’s major spiritual and cultural center. At its heart lies the Kathmandu Durbar Square with its historic palaces, temples and public spaces. This site along with six other groups of monuments and buildings in Kathmandu Valley is recognized as a World Heritage Site.

Kathmandu is the primary flight hub in Nepal. Popular destinations with direct flights to Kathmandu-Tribhuvan International Airport include Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Dhaka, and select cities in India, China & the Middle East. Flights are served by AirAsia, Biman Bangladesh Airlines, Cathay Dragon, Etihad Airways, Himalaya Airlines, Jet Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Malindo Air, Nepal Airlines, Qatar Airways, Silk Air among others. Flight duration from Bangkok to Kathmandu is around 3 hours and 30 minutes.

kathmandu Travel Essentials

Kathmandu Airport-City/Hotel Transfers

Everest Mountain Flight

Everest Base Camp Trek from Kathmandu (12D11N)

13 Things to do in Kathmandu + Tourist Spots

4. Annapurna Region

Location : Annapurna Conservation Area Project, Ghandruk Province, west central Nepal . Save on Google Maps .

Lying on the western half of Nepal, the Annapurna region is one of the major trekking destinations in the Himalayas. Popular treks in the region include the Annapurna Circuit trek, which circles the Annapurna Range, and the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek up to the Annapurna Base Camp, which offers a stunning 360-degree view of the snow-capped Annapurnas.

Pokhara is the gateway to the Annapurna Himalayas. You can either join an organized tour or go on an independent trek. If you only have a couple of days to spare, the trek to Poon Hill and back to Pokhara can be done in 4 days. The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek to Annapurna Base Camp may take as quick as 6 days to around 10 days. Meanwhile, the Annapurna Circuit usually takes about 15 to 20 days.

Annapurna Travel Essentials

Tours + discounts

5. Bhaktapur

Location : Bhaktapur District, Kathmandu Valley, Bagmati Pradesh Province, east central Nepal . Save on Google Maps .

Bhaktapur found an hour east of Kathmandu is another ancient city packed with fascinating heritage buildings linked by a maze-like network of narrow cobbled streets and squares. Head farther east to Nagarkot and enjoy a panoramic view facing Mount Everest and the Himalayan mountains.

Bhaktapur is just 45 minutes by car from Kathmandu. Once you are in the old city of Bhaktapur, most attractions are easily reached on foot. From Bhaktapur, it’s another 1 to 2-hour drive to the highland village of Nagarkot.

Bhaktapur Travel Essentials

6. Nagarkot

Nagarkot Travel Essentials

Location : Rupandehi district, Lumbini Pradesh Province, west central Nepal . Save on Google Maps .

Lumbini Travel Essentials

Where to stay Check Fares

8. Chitwan National Park

Location : near Sauhara, Subarnapur, central Nepal . Save on Google Maps .

Chitwan Travel Essentials

3D2N Chitwan National Park Tour from Kathmandu

3D2N Chitwan National Park Tour from Pokhara

6 Places To Visit in Chitwan & Sauraha Village

9. Bandipur

Location : Tanahun District, Gandaki Province, west central Nepal . Save on Google Maps .

Bandipur is the perfect place to break the long journey between Pokhara and Kathmandu. This small hilltop village is home to traditional Newari-style houses that have been transformed to charming cafes and lodges. Go on a trek around town for picturesque views overlooking the Nepali countryside. A glimpse of the Annapurnas can even be seen on a clear day.

Bandipur is found between Kathmandu and Pokhara. To get there from Kathmandu, ride a bus or charter a car to Dumre, a town found along the highway. Travel time takes about 3 to 4 hours. From Dumre, the ride uphill to Bandipur takes only 30 minutes. If you are coming from Pokhara, the drive to Dumre takes 2 to 3 hours.

Bandipur Travel Essentials

Where to stay

Beyond Nepal

Location : South Asia . Save on Google Maps .

India Travel Essentials

Tours + discounts Check Fares

Delhi-Agra-Rajasthan Private Transfers – Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer & More

Taj Mahal Fast Track Entry Ticket

Delhi Private Car Charter

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Nepal that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Nepal

Nepal tourist spots, things to do in Nepal, where to go in Nepal & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Book your way to Nepal

How much does it cost to travel to Nepal? Click below to compare flight, ferry & buses fares posted on these booking sites:

Where to Stay in Nepal

Click below & search recommended Nepal hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your min/max price , travel dates, and sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Nepal Essentials & Top Discounts

Nepal mobile data sim card/pocket wifi.

Travel with ease & confidence throughout your trip. Get a data SIM card or pocket WIFI device! Access Google Maps and all your favorite travel apps. Share your travel stories instantly with all your friends. Click below and choose your pick-up location:

Nepal 4G SIM card See all discounts

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Pokhara to Kathmandu Bus Transfers (Shared)

Sarangkot Sunrise View

Kathmandu Full Day Exploration

Kathmandu Heritage Tour

7D6N Langtang Valley Trek from Kathmandu

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Don’t Stop Here

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EBC-Gokyo Circuit Trek: 19 Days Hike to Everest Base Camp & Gokyo Lake

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21 Best Places to Visit in Nepal

Nepal's valleys, beautiful scenery, and vibrant culture are renowned worldwide. Everywhere you go, you'll be greeted with a bit of history and the majesty of nature and many lush forests and mountains. Yet more, the deeply rooted traditional cultures and rituals of Nepal are another aspects most travelers love to see while in Nepal. Keeping people's preference of traveling and interest, peruse our list of 21 best places to visit in Nepal.

Plan your adventure with our list of the best places to visit in Nepal for a luxe vacation.

First, let's start with major attractions in the Kathmandu valley.

Top Attractions of Kathmandu valley - Best places to visit in Kathmandu valley

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Kathmandu Durbar Square is a landmark attraction located in the heart of the capital city of Kathmandu. The palace, which once used to be the abode of Nepal royals, is now a royal museum, and the whole palace is a world heritage site under UNESCO. The heritage site is surrounded by ancient Newari architecture, grand temples, shrines, monuments, statues, and the old royal palace. All the more, the heritage site is lively and vibrant, with domestic and international visitors visiting its corners. Also, the temples are always busy with worshippers performing pujas. The place is constantly reverberating with travelers and shoppers, which is impressive to witness. Thus, because of its rawness and historical affluence, Kathmandu Durbar Square, without any doubt, is Nepal's best place to visit.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Another fantastic world heritage site of Nepal is Bhaktapur Durbar Square. The durbar square, which once used to be home to the Malla dynasty, is one of the attractive and best places to visit in Nepal for its enthralling aesthetic beauty and incredible history. The durbar squares embody the traditional artworks performed by the locals in its significant buildings. These medieval heritage sites allow travelers to gaze at the remarkable architecture, the exquisite wood carvings, and the metal crafts. Along with the incredible artworks of Bhaktapur, the heritage site's archaic look is what most travelers find attractive and prefer visiting Bhaktapur.

Patan Durbar Square

Last on the list of world heritage sites of Kathmandu valley is Patan Durbar Square. Home of the Malla dynasty, the durbar square preserves the artistically designed temples all within the palace area. Also, the museum within the palace has a vast fine collection of metal crafts, wood carving preserved from the precious Malla-era throne. In the Durbar Square is the beautiful Krishna temple built entirely of stone. The temple is esteemed amongst Hindu followers thus is the central Krishna shrine. Overall, Patan Durbar Square is a remarkable terracotta temple that is definitely worth a visit.

Best places to visit around Kathmandu valley:

Sightseeing in Nepal only gets better with a short overnight or multi-day tour to Nagarkot. The hill station is beloved as a hiking destination around Kathmandu and is praised for breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks of Nepal. Besides enjoying the finesse of Mother Nature and capturing riveting mountain scenery, the place is also excellent for social interaction. Nagarkot is about 28 km away from the central city-Kathmandu, about 2 hours’ drive away. But the demeanor about the place is utterly different despite its proximity to the capital city. Hence, it is one of Nepal's best places to visit to behold the absolute mesh of nature and culture.

Langtang Region

For a short yet exciting Himalayan experience, the Langtang region of Nepal is the perfect destination. It is one of the ideal locations for trekking because of its proximity to the capital city. Besides its close relations or accessibility, the region, in general, is the most alluring place on earth to be. The stunning landscape and the intricate indigenous Tamang and Sherpa culture are additional features of the Langtang region. Langtang is an ideal region to seek Himalayan magnificence and to experience cultural generosity. The area offers several trekking routes for people interested in exploring its incredible glacial lakes and mountains.

Best places to visit around the Everest region:

Sagarmatha National Park and Everest Base Camp

Sagarmatha is a remarkable region dominated by Mount Everest, the highest peak globally, with sparkling cliffs, glaciers, and deep valleys (8,848.86 m). Along with being home to the impressive mountains of Nepal, the national park is also home to several rare and endangered species. The national park shelters snow leopards, pandas, and many more rare species. Besides, as much as the national park is home to a wide assortment of flora and fauna, the national park grounds are also home to legendary Sherpas. Their unique culture and traditions add further interest, which gives the park the status of the best place to visit in Nepal. And the Everest Base Camp trek is one of the best treks in Nepal .

Gokyo Lakes is one of Nepal's most famous lakes. These Gokyo Lakes are located in the west of the most renowned Himalayan Khumbu region. The sparkling turquoise lakes of Gokyo are just stunning. After walking to the Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes can be visited by adding five more days to the route. The lakes are surrounded by outstanding views of mountains in the Everest region. People mostly trek to Gokyo Lake for its unmatched scenery of Cho Oyu, Everest, and Lhotse to Makalu from Gokyo Ri is simply breathtaking. Also, another perk of visiting Gokyo Lake is the Ngozumpa glacier, the largest glacier in the country. Overall, it is a magnificent journey; thus is one of Nepal's best places to visit.

Arun Valley in the Makalu region

Off-beaten trails in Nepal are perfect for those who seek to enjoy the calmness and serenity of nature. Arun Valley is one such place. As part of the Makalu trek, Arun valley is a beautiful country with unspoiled nature and culture. It shares very close proximity with the Everest region but is different from the commercial area. Trekking in this region allows you to meander through traffic less but densely forested paths, tasting refined Sherpa culture. Arun valley of Makalu is best for the daredevil who loves traversing nature and mountains in solitude.

Best places to visit in West Nepal

Annapurna Region

The Annapurna region is Nepal's most diverse and popular trekking destination. It is the focal point for the area of Annapurna, the mountain range comprising Annapurna I, the first of the 8,000 m high peaks to be scaled. Dhaulagiri, another 8,000-meter giant massif Annapurna I, also lies in the area. This majestic region offers views of green, rich fields and undisturbed natural forests, snow-capped mountains, and encounters with a diverse ethnic group combine to make the Annapurna trek one of the most rewarding treks in Nepal. There are many trekking routes available for interested trekkers to embark on a trekking journey in Nepal. Among many treks, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is one of the best hikes in Nepal.

Picturesque Pokhara sits on the edge of tranquil Fewa Lake with towering Annapurna standing tall in the backdrop. A visit to Pokhara promises a quiet and peaceful time. Thus many prefer to visit this charming little town in the west of Nepal. A vacation here includes spending time admiring Lakes, exploring trendy bars and restaurants, meandering through bustling cities, and partaking in adventurous sports such as paragliding, bungee jumping, etc. Travelers can easily spend three days to one week in Pokhara exploring its beautiful places before going on long and vigorous trekking trails surrounding Pokhara.

When life feels too hectic, for a quick refreshing break, Nepalese head to Poon Hill. This is why Poon Hill is the most popular trekking destination in Nepal for short treks and quick gateways. Besides offering majestic mountain spectacle, this journey is socially engaging as well. The trail is suitably aligned with plenty of houses providing services to travelers. Overall, the 360-degree view of Annapurna massif during golden sunrise and sunset is the best part of the place for which people keep on visiting this place.

Tilicho Lake

Tilicho Lake, at an altitude of (4,949m) is a well-known place for incredible trekking journeys in Nepal. A trip to Tilicho Lake is exhilarating, thrilling, and rewarding. Tilicho Lake trek displays a scenic view of much of the eastern side of the epic world-famous Annapurna circuit with sublime natural beauty, cultural and traditional values, stunning waterfalls and running clean water streams, and attractive floras and faunas. The rocky trails, barren hills, and hiking through narrow ways make the journey more or less challenging. But the rewarding landscapes give meaningful joy to accept the geographical hindrances.

Upper Mustang

Upper Mustang presents an exceptionally particular and novel condition contrasted with the remainder of Nepal. While a large portion of the trekking destination in Nepal offers a verdant forest, Mustang parades eroded slopes and excellent stone arrangements, which is different from the other trekking regions of Nepal. It is additionally ideal for explorers who are searching for a segregated trekking experience. Antiquated Buddhist religious communities and terrific perspectives on the Annapurna Range are the significant attractions of this trek.

Samaguan in Manaslu Region

Samagaun is a medieval Himalayan village settled on mountains such as Manaslu and Mount Himalchuli. This picturesque settlement with just 200 households is a remote village but a hub for trekkers embarking on an adventurous Manaslu circuit trek . The culture and the natural elegance of the towns are incredible and inspiring. The culture, rituals, and traditions of Samagaun are unique from the typical Nepalese culture. A visit to Samagaun is exploring different sides of Nepal hidden in the majestic Manaslu Himal.

Bandipur, a Newar town with its ancient history still intact, is a hilltop village. Travel the historical path of Dumre Bazar to a city that has barely changed across its verdant forests. Well preserved Bandipur welcomes visitors to its unique offer: rich mountain history, mountain views, and several walking spots. In contrast to most traded posts in the Nepal hills, Bandipur has held its age-old qualities of culture - temples, shrines, holy grottoes, countless festivals, and a Newari architecture that goes back to ancient Kathmandu Valley.

Tansen's old hill town in this area provides a calmer environment where time steadily passes, and the restorative lifestyle is contagious. Walkthrough the streets to see an entirely different life from the urban cities surrounding this typical town. Exploring the Shreenagar Hills or hiking for the Rani Mahal on the Kali Gandaki River for a day, Tansen displays ancient Newari culture. Centuries earlier, Newar's art and design merchants from Kathmandu returned to Tansen and later became the locals. Tansen's picturesque town is the local's favorite destination to spend some quality time away from busy city life.

Lumbini is the Buddha's birthplace, one of the world's most important spiritual sites, and attracts Buddhist pilgrims worldwide. Today you can visit over twenty-five Buddhist monasteries built by diverse countries from Vietnam to France, study Buddhism, meditate and visit the birthplace within the sacred Mayadevi Gardens. It is a great place to spend time and to seek inner peace.

Best National Parks of Nepal for Jungle Safari

Chitwan National park

Nepal's first national park: Chitwan national park is located in the Terai Plains of Chitwan, at the foot of the Mahabharata Scale. In the jungles of the Chitwan, tourists can enjoy the natural wilderness via a Jeep safari, a quiet canoe ride, or by going on a nature walk. Going on a jungle walk or safari to witness wildlife roaming freely is a truly remarkable experience. At the end of the day, add to the essence of the ultimate jungle experience by unwinding next to a large campfire, watching the mesmerizing Tharu stick dance, and listening to their soothing folk songs. Chitwan National Park is full of incredible experiences and perfect for a relaxing break. And for that very reason, many travel to Chitwan national park.

Bardia National Park

Navigate the silent jungles of Bardia and experience pristine conservation areas in the Terai region. Housing diverse species of flora and fauna of the national park, nature lovers are attracted to its wilderness. One-horned rhino, royal Bengal tiger are some of the endangered animals that freely roam around its ground. Some of the other species are buffalo, swamps, blackbucks, and gharials. All the more, for nature's beguiling beauty, people traverse the jungle of Bardia national park . Waking up early in one of the huts of the resort to witness herds of deer roaming in the wilderness is something you get to experience here. Hence, for the surreal encounter, most consider Bardia as one of the best places in Nepal.

Best Places to visit in East Nepal

Walkthrough historic Mithila to learn about Southern Nepal's Terai culture and visit the grand temple of Ram Janaki in the center of the district, where the iconic Hindu Ramaya style is alluded to. The temple is the city's principal attraction and attracts many tourists as well as pilgrims. With being sacred sites of Nepal, Janakpur flaunts the vibrant Mithila arts in the walls of Janakpur Dham. Also, the place is worth a visit because Janakpur is so different from most cities in the mid-hills of Nepal. On the whole, for its fascinating culture and artistic background, Janakpur is one of the best places to visit in Nepal.

Famous for its vast tea garden, Ilam is the excellent gateway from the bustling city. This touristic town thrives with different flavors of tea and a pristine landscape made up of sloping tea gardens. Besides, Ilam is one of the wealthier in cultural diversity, natural landscape than any other district of Nepal. Similarly, people love walking amidst the tea garden of Ilam as it allows them to reconnect with Mother Nature. Altogether Ilam is the favorite destination for locals to unwind from their hectic life amidst the lush tea gardens and tea estates.

Last Words

The above list introduces you to the places you should not miss while visiting Nepal. These places are much more beautiful and incredible than the justification that this short overview gave here. Once you find yourself in these locations, you will understand why these destinations are the best places to visit in Nepal.

Places to See in Nepal

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Explore the wonders of Kathmandu Valley on this short trip to Nepal

Must Visit Places In Nepal

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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.

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Mount Annapurna

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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

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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 Places to Visit in Nepal

Discover the allure of Nepal's beauty with our guide to the Best Places to Visit in Nepal. Explore Himalayan wonders and cultural gems.

Nepal is a land of unmatched natural beauty and soul-stirring adventures with something to offer for everyone from thrill seekers to those wanting to embark on a journey delving into spirituality.

Along with the towering peaks and the variety of landscapes, Nepal also boasts its vibrant culture, unique architecture, and cultural and historical sites.

For anyone planning to visit Nepal, selecting the best picks for your journey amidst the myriad of experiences that the country has to offer can be a daunting task. Therefore, let’s explore some of the best places to visit in Nepal.

Cultural gems

Beyond the stunning landscapes, Nepal features a tapestry of cultures, traditions, and historical sites each offering unique experiences to the visitors.

The heart of Nepal, Kathmandu Valley is the capital city of the country. Not just geographically this place is the central hub of Nepal even in terms of cultural heritage and richness.

The bustling city of Kathmandu features a vibrant daily life accompanied by a myriad of cultural heritages, temples, architectural monuments, and 7 UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Be it the spiritual immersion at the Pashupatinath Temple or the iconic panorama of Kathmandu Valley as seen from the Swoyambhunath temple located atop a hill, the city makes sure to give an experience unmatched.

The architectural marvel at the Kathmandu Durbar Square and the Changunarayan temple is worth witnessing as each of these has its own stories to convey.

Located to the south of the Kathmandu Durbar Square is the Kumari Ghar which is home to the living goddess of Nepal- Kumari who is worshipped by the Hindus, Newars, and Buddhists alike.

A cultural tour around the heritages of Kathmandu is sure to take you back in time displaying the grandeur of the country’s past in all its might.

The valley is also home to the culturally rich Newars who are known for their vibrant cultures and traditions. The jatras of the Newar community in Kathmandu are often a festive affair with traditional music, dance, and lots of joy.

Known as the ‘City of Fine Arts’, Patan is the neighboring city of Kathmandu. It is known for its intricate Newari art, architecture, and traditional crafts combined with the narrow alleys lined with ancient temples.

Patan City manages to give a more introspective and quieter experience into the arts and cultures of the Newar community as opposed to the bustling streets of Kathmandu.

The main attraction of this city is the Patan Durbar Square which houses the Royal Palace and the Patan Museum offering insights into the brave history of Nepal. This is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

While the city is dotted with temples, the Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (golden temple) and the Mahaboudhha Temple truly stand out in presenting the richness of the predominant Buddhist culture in the city.

The architecture here breathes life into the beauty of the city as the artisans here have managed to preserve and pass down the generational techniques making each piece of artifact unique and fascinating.

In the narrow lanes of Patan, you can find a vibrant display of traditional crafts like thangka paintings, metal statues, wood carvings, and other forms of art in the workshops lined up all over the area.

For those wanting to purchase these gorgeous artifacts from the creators themselves, the Patan Industrial Estate is a haven.

Another neighbor to the Kathmandu Valley, Bhaktapur is often regarded as the cultural gem of Nepal because of its rich Newari culture and medieval architecture. It is also known as the ‘City of Devotees’.

Although severely impacted by the devastating 2015 earthquake, Bhaktapur has managed to rebuild itself and how. The city still possesses its charm and manages to beckon a huge traffic of tourists.

Bhaktapur also houses a UNESCO world heritage site which is the heartbeat of the city known as the Bhaktapur Durbar Square. It features several temples of Pagoda style as well as Shikhara style.

Visiting the Bhaktapur Durbar Square is like traveling back in time as the architecture here in the iconic 55-window palace, Vatsala temple, lion’s gate, and more is truly breathtaking and crafted very intricately.

Adding to the architectural beauty, places like the Nyatapola temple and Dattatreya square are the spiritual hubs of this city while acting as a window to the exceptional Newari craftsmanship.

At the Pottery Square, visitors can also witness the traditional art of pottery while also taking part in it as well as being able to purchase some of these crafted pieces.

Simply taking a stroll along this living heritage of Nepal feels like walking in a live museum and is a memorable experience.

The birthplace of Gautam Budhha, Lumbini is another addition to the numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites that Nepal features. This city is considered of high spiritual significance.

The main highlight of Lumbini is the Maya Devi Temple which is said to enclose the exact place where Buddha was born including other spots of historical significance like Pushkarini Pond.

For those wanting to explore spirituality in this city, it also features the sacred garden and the monastic zone allowing the visitors to get deeper insights on self-reflection as well as Buddhism.

International monasteries like the Chinese monastery, Korean monastery, and Royal Thai monastery can also be found in Lumbini giving the visitors a rather unique experience.

Besides this, Lumbini is also of historical significance as it has the Ashoka Pillar which was erected by Emperor Ashok long back in time during the 3 rd century BC.

Janakpur is a significant pilgrimage site for the Hindus and is dedicated to Hindu Goddess Sita. This place has a deep-rooted connection with the ancient epic Ramayana and is the birthplace of Goddess Sita.

The ornate Janaki Temple is the heart of Janakpur and presents a unique architectural built with a blend of Mughal and Koiri styles. It also houses a museum giving more insight into the religious significance of the city.

This city, full of history and spirituality, comes alive during specific occasions like the Ram Janaki Vivah Panchami with many religious believers as well as tourists making their way to the city.

Janakpur is equally rich in culture and acts as a window into the unique and exquisite Mithila paintings, art, and culture featuring intricate patterns and designs.

Trekking paradise

The land of the Himalayas, Nepal is the hotspot for adventure enthusiasts wanting to explore the mountainous giants and the beautiful landscapes of the country from closer proximity via the numerous trekking routes.

Everest Region

The Everest Region features the iconic Everest Base Camp trekking allowing the trekking enthusiasts to delve into the allure of the highest peak in the world- Mt. Everest.

A paradise for trekkers, the Everest region encompasses several treks featuring awe-inspiring panoramas of the towering Himalayan giants. The Gokyo Lake trek provides breathtaking views of the turquoise glacial lakes in the region.

The Everest Three Passes trek takes the trekkers to the high and challenging passes of the Everest region introducing a factor of thrill in their expedition.

This region provides a perfect blend of adventures and cultural richness as you traverse through the welcoming Sherpa villages.

Annapurna Region

The Annapurna region boasts a wide variety of landscapes and wildlife along with elaborate trekking routes to explore them. The region is home to the Annapurna massif and encompasses the 10th-highest peak in the world.

There are two main treks available in the Annapurna region with the Annapurna Base Camp trek taking you to the base of Annapurna and the Annapurna Circuit trek one circumnavigating it.

Another easy yet stunning trekking route in this region is the Ghorepani Poonhill trek taking you to one of the best sunrise viewing spots in Nepal .

These treks have gained popularity worldwide for their immense natural beauty. While at it, trekkers can also experience the unique high-altitude deserts through the Upper Mustang trek as they navigate the trans-Himalayan region.

Manaslu Region

For a more off-the-beaten experience, the Manaslu region is rising amongst the names of trekking regions in Nepal. This remote region is known for the authentic experience that it provides to trekkers.

Home to the eighth-highest peak in the world, the Manaslu region features the Manaslu Circuit trek encircling Mt. Manaslu itself as it makes its way through the diverse and unique landscapes of the region.

The Tsum Valley trek is another unique trekking experience for the visitors in this region. Treks in the Manaslu region are famous for the true representation of life in the Himalayas that they provide.

While these are the main trekking routes in Nepal, the list doesn’t end here. The country also features several other trekking routes catering to the needs of experienced trekkers and beginners alike.

Some of them are Langtang Valley trek, Dhaulagiri Circuit trek, Kanchenjunga base camp trek, and more. You can pick your adventure from the elaborate options the country boasts.

Beyond the Himalayas

The exploration of Nepal encompasses many other adventures and locations ranging much beyond the commonly perceived notion limited to the Himalayas and treks.

Chitwan National Park

Nepal’s first national park, the Chitwan National Park is a haven for a variety of wildlife as well as a testament to the efforts of Nepal to conserve its natural heritage and biodiversity.

An array of wildlife awaits the visitors at the Chitwan National Park including endangered species like the royal Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, and several birds.

One horned Rhinoceros in Chitwan National Park

Chitwan jungle safari is truly a treat for visitors as it takes you close to the animals in their natural habitat at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visitors can also enjoy elephant rides and canoe rides on the Rapti River while immersing themselves in the serene atmosphere of this national park. Bird watching here is also a treat given the diverse bird population.

The adventure capital of Nepal, Pokhara is the perfect blend of nature and adventure boasting tranquil lakes with the stunning backdrop of the Himalayas along with the thrill of several adventure activities.

Pokhara also houses several spiritually significant places like the Bindhyabasini Temple, and Tal Barahi Temple, as well as the UNESCO World Heritage Site- World Peace Pagoda known for its serene ambiance.

The city is home to several lakes like the stunning Phewa Lake and the Begnas Lake where visitors can enjoy boating and have a good time of relaxation. The lakeside area of Pokhara is a tourist hub featuring a lively ambiance.

One of the best places to view sunrise in Nepal, Sarangkot is also in proximity to Pokhara which can be visited as a hiking route. Besides this, the city features many other trekking and hiking routes as well and is known as the ‘Gateway to Annapurna region’.

Pokhara features several adventure activities like bungee jumping, paragliding, hot air balloon rides, ultra-light flights, ziplines, mountain flights, as well as white water rafting set against the backdrop of towering peaks.

If you’re planning a visit, explore our blog on Things to Do in Pokhara for a comprehensive guide to the exciting activities this vibrant city has to offer.

Nagarkot is a hill station close to the Kathmandu Valley and is regarded as the best relaxation spot, especially for those wanting to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

This place boasts stunning views of sunrise and sunset as well as breathtaking panoramas of many Himalayan ranges on days with clear weather and skies when you can see Mt. Everest, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, Cho Oyu, and more.

Nagarkot also includes several trails, some featuring numerous stone stairs, best suited for hiking amidst the pristine natural environment of the region.

Other highlights of Nagarkot include the Nagarkot Waterfall, Buddha peace park, Bageshwori Nagarkot suspension bridge, and the clear views of Kathmandu Valley that it provides.

Chandragiri

One of the four hills surrounding the Kathmandu valley, Chandragiri is an adventurous location having cultural and historical significance too.

Chandragiri offers a 2.4 km cable car ride taking the visitors to the top of the hill where a stunning view of the Kathmandu valley unfolds amidst them. There also lies a temple on this hill along with a view tower.

On a day with clear skies, one can witness stunning views of the Himalayas lined up together from the view tower. During peak winters, Chandragiri also rarely experiences snowfall, adding to the beauty of the place.

It is the closest place to Kathmandu Valley where people can go to experience snowfall. However, it completely depends on your luck and your timing.

Nepal boasts a variety of must-visit places. While some prominent ones are included in the list, there are many more places that are the embodiment of the natural and cultural beauty of Nepal that have not made it to this list.

Each of these destinations further adds to your experience of visiting the country. In this blog, we have merely scratched the surface of the incredible experiences that await you in Nepal.

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Trekking in Nepal

Climbing and expedition, cultural tour and sightseeing, cycling and mountain biking, luxury treks, luxury tours, multi country tours, voluntourism trips, extend your trip.

Everest Panorama Trek – 9 Days
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Trishuli River Rafting – 1 Day
Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour – 1 Day
Everest Base Camp Heli Tour with Gokyo Extension – 1 Day
Langtang Heli Sightseeing – 1 Day
Pokhara and Annapurna Heli Sightseeing – 1 Day
Paragliding in Nepal (Pokhara) – 1 Day
Scenic Mountain Flight (Everest Flight) – 1 Day
Ultra Light Flight – 1 Day
Jamacho Day Hike-One day hiking trip – 1 Day
Kathmandu Uncovered with Nagarkot – 1 Day
Day Tour to UNESCO Heritage Sites – 1 Day
Nepal and Tibet – 15 Days
Nepal and Bhutan – 15 Days
India, Nepal and Bhutan – 19 Days
Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan – 20 Days
Arupokhari School Volunteer Program – 14 Days
Rebuild Home Volunteer Program – 9 Days
Bardiya Jungle Safari – 4 Days
Chitwan Jungle Safari – 3 Days

Trekking in Bhutan

Festival tours, motorcycling.

Druk Path Trek – 8 Days
Chomalhari Trek – 12 Days
Laya Ghasa Trek – 18 Days
Bhutan Vistas Tour – 5 Days
Cultural Heartland Tour – 10 Days
Hidden Valley – 11 Days
Bhutan Multi Sports Tour – 11 Days
Paro Tshechu Festival – 8 Days
Punakha Tsechu – 9 Days
Trongsa Lhuntse Tshechu – 9 Days
Bumthang Tangbi – 11 Days
Bhutan Ura Yakchoe – 12 Days
Tamshingphala Choepa – 12 Days
Mongar and Trashigang – 16 Days
Bhutan Biking – 8 Days
Bhutan Motorcycle Tour – 12 Days

Trekking in Tibet

Tibet Advance Everest Base Camp – 21 Days
Cho Oyu Expedition – 45 Days
Shishapangma Expedition – 47 Days
Everest Expedition via North Side – 63 Days
Kathmandu and Lhasa Tour – 7 Days
Tibet Heritage Tour – 8 Days
Overland Tour to Everest Base Camp – 10 Days
Mount Kailash Mansarovar Lake Tour – 15 Days
Everest Base Camp Biking Tour – 21 Days

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12 best places to visit in Nepal

03/01/2022 by Roobens Leave a Comment

Thinking about visiting Nepal? You’ll be pleasantly surprised if you go there! Nepal is mostly known for attracting trek lovers (Annapurna, Everest…). But there’s more than that in Nepal! You can visit national parks, temples, monasteries, admire Himalaya, relax along wonderful lakes… Yes, there are numerous Nepal tourist places! What to do in Nepal? Read this article listing the best places to visit in Nepal, then I’ll share Nepal travel tips.

Table of Contents

Things to do in Nepal

Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal. It’s the largest city of the country, and this is where most travelers start when they visit Nepal. Kathmandu is mostly known for its stupas (place of worship for Buddhists), monuments, medieval temples and public squares. Kathmandu was severely damaged by an earthquake in 2015, but the city’s being restored. Don’t miss Durbar Square where there are many temples and stupas. You have to see Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest of Asia.

You also have to see Swayambunath temple and don’t miss Patan (also known as Lalitpur). Located in the south of the city, it was a different city back then but they’ve merged into one with Kathmandu. There’s a wonderful golden temple there. I wrote a detailed article about my visit to Kathmandu . Click here to find your accommodation. Click here to find the best activities.

Second largest city of Nepal, Pokhara is wonderful and is actually not that big. It’s the starting point of numerous treks. A perfect place to relax before or after a trek. Take some time around Fewa lake, where you’ll find many guesthouses, restaurants, bars and small shops. It’s also possible to go paddle boarding, paragliding or rafting there. You have to see Shanti Stupa and the Davis Falls! I wrote a detailed article about my visit to Pokhara . Click here to find your accommodation. Click here to find the best activities.

Chitwan National Park

Nepal is more than just mountains and treks. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984, Chitwan National Park allows you to watch wildlife and offers a tropical climate different than the rest of the country. Over there you’ll see one-horned rhinos but also leopards, sloth bears, gaurs, deers, more than 500 species of birds and even Bengal tigers! Chitwan National Park is one of the most famous Nepal places! It’s recommended to get a guide there! Here are the best things to do in Chitwan . Click here to find your accommodation.

Bhaktapur is close to Kathmandu. It was one of the three royal cities with Kathmandu and Patan. It’s the cultural capital of the country, one of the many historical places of Nepal. Unfortunately it was severely damaged during the 2015 earthquake. Go to Durbar Square to see the royal palace but also several temples and shrines. Bhaktapur is known for its handicrafts and potteries from local markets. Click here to find your accommodation.

Numerous Buddhist pilgrims go to Lumbini. This is where Siddhartha Gautana, also known as Buddha, was born. His mother Maya Devi gave birth near a tree in the garden, and there’s a temple dedicated to her. Don’t miss the Maya Devi temple and the Royal Thai monastery. Click here to find your accommodation.

Annapurna trek

Annapurna is one of the most famous regions of Nepal to go trekking, and one of the most popular Nepal tourist spots. There are several trekking routes. Some of them take a few days to complete, others two or three weeks. You pass by valleys, rice fields, forests, several villages and sacred temples. You don’t need to be a seasoned trekker, there are circuits for every level, and local guides can escort you.

Everest base camp

The summit of Mount Everest, the highest mountain on earth, reaches 8,848 meters (29,028 ft.) high. The Everest base camp trek will allow you to reach Kala Patthar, 5,600 meters (18,372 ft.) above sea level. The trek starts either at Lukla or Jiri, a four days walk away from Lukla. The trek lasts 15 to 20 days. You’ll pass by numerous villages and you’ll see breathtaking landscapes. It’s better to get there from March to May, or from September to December. It’s also possible to fly in a helicopter over the mountain.

It’s one of the most beautiful places of Nepal. Actually it’s the place to be if you want to enjoy the beauty of the Himalayas without arduous physical activity. Located not far from Bhaktapur, you’ll experience fantastic sunrises and sunsets, and admire Kathmandu Valley. On a clear day, you can even glimpses of Mount Everest. You can go paragliding, trekking or mountain biking in Nagarkot. Click here to find your accommodation.

The Langtang region is an area where it’s possible to experience numerous treks and hikes. It’s also home to Langtang National Park, one of the places to visit in Nepal! It’s a park with stunning views, old monasteries and there are various trek circuits. FYI, some villages of the area were completely destroyed by the 2015 earthquake.

gosainkunda lake langtang national park nepal

Bandipur is a quiet little town of Nepal. It’s not one of those cities with numerous Nepal tourist attractions, but visitors like it thanks to its peaceful vibe. This is where the Newari culture was born. Visit the shrines, the bazaars and admire the natural beauties of the city. Don’t miss Siddha Gufa cave. You can also go paragliding or canyoning in Bandipur. Click here to find your accommodation.

Bardia National Park

Located southwest of Nepal, Bardia National Park is less touristy than Chitwan National Park because it’s harder to get there (15 hours drive from Kathmandu). Therefore it’s still a wild park, well preserved from tourism. You might get the chance to see a Bengal tiger! There are also elephants, rhinos, crocodiles, dolphins… Click here to find your accommodation.

Janakpur is not far from the border with India. This is where goddess Sita married Lord Ram, in Janaki Mandir temple. Every year, thousands Hindus head there to celebrate the anniversary of their marriage. It’s one of the most beautiful temples, but also the largest one! FYI, there are more than 70 ponds in Janakpur. Click here to find your accommodation.

That’s it! Now you know all the beautiful places to visit in Nepal! Here’s a Nepal travel guide now!

Nepal travel budget

Accommodation is not expensive in Nepal. A night in a hostel dorm costs around 500 NPR ($4). One night in a basic guesthouse costs around 1,000 NPR ($8). You’ll pay about 2,000 NPR ($16.50) per night to stay in a mid-range hotel. Prices start at 5,000 NPR ($40) per night in a luxury hotel, but you’ll probably pay around 15,000 NPR ($125) per night. High-end hotels are only available in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Food is not expensive either. If you eat local, you’ll pay around 200-300 NPR ($1.50-2.50) per meal. One meal in a high-end restaurant will cost around 1,000 NPR ($8). A beer costs around 300 NPR ($2.50).
Regarding transportation, in big cities you can take a tuktuk or a taxi. One ride costs around 50 NPR ($0.50) per kilometer. To get around in the country, a bus ride will cost between 1,000 and 2,000 NPR ($8-16.50).
Regarding transportation, the entrance fee for popular tourist spots (Durbar Square…) is about 1,200 NPR ($10). For treks, a guide/porter costs around 2,000 NPR ($16.50) per day.

Basically, if you’re traveling on a budget, you can get by with $15 per day. Otherwise you’ll spend about $30+ per day (if you don’t go trekking). Otherwise your budget will be higher. Anyway Nepal is a cheap travel destination .

How to get around in Nepal

In big cities, you can walk or take a tuktuk. There are also taxis if needed. To get around in the country, it’s better to take the bus. They go all over the country. There are also domestic flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Best time to visit Nepal

September, October and November are the best months to visit Nepal. The sky is clear, the mountains are visible and the weather is perfect to go trekking. February, March and April are also good months to visit Nepal. Avoid June, July, and August because there’s the monsoon.

Visa policy of Nepal

You’ll need a visa to go to Nepal . Don’t worry, you can get it on arrival at the Kathmandu airport. You’ll have to pay $30 for a 15-days visa, $50 for a 30-days visa or $125 for a 90-days visa. You need to ID photos, and your passport must be valid for at least six months. You can find all the details here .

Safety in Nepal

Nepal is a very safe country. There are almost no scams targeting and female travelers won’t be harassed, given the religious and chaste nature of the country. Travelers mostly have gastrointestinal issues in Nepal. Easier said than done but try to avoid fresh fruit and vegetables from street vendors, often cleaned with tapped water. Here’s how to avoid traveler’s diarrhea .

Tourists may have problems when trekking. Always tell people where you’re going, don’t trek alone and make sure you’re physically fit. Don’t forget to get travel insurance. It will protect you against illness, injury, theft and cancellations. Click here to get one.

Packing list for Nepal

I’m not gonna list all the things to pack for Nepal. I don’t know how long you’re gonna stay there, where you’re going in Nepal, what you’re going to do and when you’ll visit. Take all the necessary clothes, toiletries, and also:

hand sanitizer
combination locks
a money belt
a security cable lock
a travel plug adapter
a stainless steel water bottle
a lifestraw (a water bottle with a purifier)
a menstrual cup (for the ladies)

Here’s a full list of travel accessories , which can be useful!

What to eat in Nepal

Even if many travelers have gastrointestinal issues, the food is delicious in Nepal. Nepal’s signature dish is Daal Bhaat Takaari : rice, lentils and vegetable. There’s also a strong influence from Tibet: soups, potatoes and pastas and of course Indian influence. Momos are also very popular. These are steamed dumplings stuffed with minced meat.

That’s it! Now you know everything thanks to this Nepal travel guide!

Traveling soon? Check out my travel resources page!
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Best Places to Visit in Nepal (For First Timers)

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What are the best places to visit in Nepal? Obviously, most visitors to Nepal will spend time in Kathmandu, and then many take off on long treks. But what are the other places to visit in Nepal, what is there to see and do in Nepal outside of Kathmandu? We go into top tourist destinations and places to visit in Nepal in this post. Nepal is a sensational destination and one we’ve spent months in, these are the places you should try to see if time allows.

If you use our list index of places to see in Nepal (below) you can jump straight to that destination with photos and information on where to stay, weather, and things to do in that destination in Nepal.

Your Nepal itinerary will depend on how long you have in Nepal, if you only have time for your trek plus a few days in Kathmandu, that’s fine, Kathmandu is incredible and you can easily spend several days exploring.

Kathmandu has some of the most fascinating places to visit in the entire world. If time is short and you’re heading off for a trek, be sure to check out our post on places to visit in and around Kathmandu, as well as the information below.

If you have more time and you’re heading to the Annapurnas or Poon Hill, you can squeeze in a few days relaxing in beautifu l Pokhara on Fewa Lake. You will need to get to Pokhara by air or bus for those treks, the bus journey will take you a full day, about 6 or 7 hours. Pokhara is about 200 Km from Kathmandu.

More time again? Get out to Chitwan for a wildlife safari, you can spot Bengal tigers and Indian 1 horned rhino if you’re very lucky. The journey to Chitwan from Kathmandu is about 6 hours by bus.

Not far from there is Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. This is advanced level travel.

Around the Kathmandu valley, there is beautiful Bhaktapur, home to the 3rd Durbar Square of the valley, and Nagarkot, a famous hill-top view-point. UNESCO lists all of the Kathmandu Valley.

Then of course, there is the magnificent Everest Region with its many treks and fascinating mountain communities.

Not sure where to go in Nepal? Find out more about these destinations in Nepal, below.

Best Places to Visit in Nepal

See Mount Everest in Nepal

Mount Everest View From Everest Base Camp

To see mount Everest you have a few options. The best way, of course, is to complete the Everest Base Camp Trek. You will need at least 2 weeks in Nepal to do this, we completed this trek in 3 weeks, taking our time and allowing more rest days. We didn’t take a guide or porter but it’s easy to arrange this. We have guides to gear for Nepal and an EBC packing list . You don’t need to be particularly fit, but you do need to be ready for the challenges of altitude.

It’s also possible to see Mount Everest by taking a chartered flight. Some of these flights are scenic flights only, you will have a view from the window. Other flights by helicopter actually allow you to land, either at the Everest View Hotel, the highest hotel in the world, or even at Everest Base Camp.

Likely the cheapest and most popular way to see Mount Everest in Nepal is to book a 1 hour scenic flight from Kathmandu. You can check out these flights here.

Another alternative is to take a helicopter flight that lands on the ground near Everest. While much more expensive the flight lands in several places during the flight. stopping first at Lukla airport to refuel before moving on to Kalapatthar, which is a hill that offers a good view of Everest Base Camp and Mount Everest itself, which is 200 meters below. You are then taken to Hotel Everest View with the option for breakfast looking over the mountains. Once you’ve eaten and taken pictures you’re then flown back down to Kathmandu, making another stop to refuel at Lukla. Check out availability and prices on this scenic flight to Kalapatthar and back here.

Aside from these two options, you can see Mount Everest from various viewpoints in Nepal if the skies are clear and pollution levels are low. The best time for clear views is normally October to November, the peak trekking season.

If you visit Lukla by plane there is a good chance of you seeing Mount Everest from the left-hand windows. Flights depart Kathmandu for Lukla daily, weather allowing. The weather is a big factor, these flights are often delayed or canceled.

Lukla Nepal Best places to visit Nepal Lukla Airport

Lukla is a small town high in the Himalayas, home to Nepal’s iconic Lukla Airport. The only way to visit Lukla in Nepal is to fly into Lukla by plane or helicopter, or to walk. We have walked to Lukla and flown in and out of Lukla several times.

There is no road to Lukla.

Lukla is the starting point of most Everest Base Camp treks and has plenty of small hotels, restaurants and shops. You can’t see Mt Everest from Lukla, but if you walk for two days to Namche Bazaar, there is an Everest view point.

The Everest View Hotel is just above Namche Bazaar, allow another day or two to walk here as you will need to acclimatise.

Namche Bazaar

Namche Bazaar is beautiful. It sits in a natural bowl, nestled into the mountains, and has immense character. Namche is the second night’s stay on the Everest Base Camp trek and is full of guest houses, hotels, shops, and restaurants. We think it’s a much nicer place to visit or stay than Lukla and we often stay an extra day or two here.

The altitude of Namche Bazaar is 3,440m, 11,290 feet. Namche Bazaar is the unofficial capital of the Khumbu region of Nepal.

Above Namche, there is the Tenzing Norgay memorial and a cool little mountaineering museum. These are both located at the Everest viewpoint.

There is another rudimentary airport above Namche but it’s rarely used. We have seen helicopter flights from Kathmandu to this airport at times when planes to Lukla have been cancelled because of low cloud.

View of Mount Everest from viewpoint Nepal Best Places to visit in Nepal Mount Everest View

On the climb up to Namche there is also an Everest view point, just before you enter the National Park (and have to buy your permit). I’ll warn you, the hill climb to Namche is one of the steepest on the whole Everest hike, and you have to cross the most scary suspension bridge, the Hillary bridge.

Also above Namche is The Everest View Hotel and the town of Khumjung. In Khumjung, you will find The Hillary School and the Khumjung Monastery, which contains a very special artefact, a yeti skull. Yes, we have seen it, we had to track down the monk with the key, but we got to see the yeti skull at Khumjung Monastery . There are photos in our post.

We have a full post and video about Namche Bazaar here with photos of all the places we mention, and of the highest Irish bar in the world, in Namche. They have a pool table. There are also some very good bakeries in Namche.

Best Time To Visit Namche Bazaar Nepal

Namche Bazaar is in the northern hemisphere 27.8 degrees north of the equator. Its elevation makes it colder. The summer months, June to September can see daytime temperatures climbing to 10C, in winter (December, January February) temperatures can be -10C. You will probably see snow in Namche in winter. The best time to visit Namche is generally considered to be the autumn trekking season, October and November, when there isn’t much chance of rain or snow. Spring can also be a good time. We have been in Namche in February and early March, it was -10C at night and we were perfectly comfortable. We did see light snow and were caught in a snowstorm climbing Namche Hill.

Where to Stay to Visit Namche Bazaar

It’s quite normal to just turn up in Namche Bazaar and knock on doors until you find a guest house or hotel with vacancies. However, Namche does get very busy in peak season, to be certain of a place to stay, book. Also, you will be exhausted after climbing Namche Hill, you won’t want to walk another step. Having a room ready for your arrival will be a bonus. I’d stay 2-3 nights in Namche to acclimatise and see everything nearby properly, whether you’re continuing on to Everest or not.

There are very few places to stay that you can book online in Namche. For a comfortable, more luxurious stay in Namche Bazaar, with heating and hot showers, book this hotel, such luxuries are a rarity on these treks and the price reflects this. For a more “normal” trekking lodge, at about $10 per night (this is the typical price of guest houses or tea houses on the Everest trek) book this one.

What to Wear to Visit Namche Bazaar Nepal

You will need sensible walking shoes or boots, and comfortable hiking pants. I wear stretchy jeans, running tights, yoga pants, anything really. My husband has been up here in shorts and running shoes, he has warm leggings to wear under shorts if it gets cold. You will need a warm hat, fleece, a buff, sunglasses, sun protection, and it’s very sensible to have a waterproof jacket at the very least. If it rains and you get wet you will get cold fast.

Special trekking socks aren’t essential, I wear normal street socks at these lower altitudes. In snow or if it gets very cold hiking socks will be warmer and they offer some cushioning to help with sore feet.

When you’re walking you’re usually comfortable in fairly light clothing. I wouldn’t say a down jacket is essential for Namche, but if you have one, take it. I didn’t take a sleeping bag with me to Namche and I managed fine without, most people do take their own 4 season sleeping bag. You will need a water bottle.

Visit Lumbini in Nepal

Lumbini Nepal best places in nepal to visit

Modern-day Lumbini in Nepal was where Lord Buddha, Prince Siddhartha Gautama, was born. This young prince was a historical figure and his birthplace is marked today by various temples, stupas, and a gold statue of the miraculous child. The Maya Devi Temple, sacred Bodhi tree, and pool are said to be the exact spot of his birth.

Look out for the Thai, Tibetan, Sri Lankan, and Myanmar temples, monasteries and pagodas along with the World Peace Pagoda. You’ll need to visit our full post about Lumbini and how to visit Lumbini for more information.

Visit Nagarkot Nepal

best places in nepal for views of the himalayas nagarkot

Nagarkot is well known as a Himalayan viewpoint, not too far from the city of Kathmandu. You’re unlikely to see “the snows” from Kathmandu itself, the air pollution isn’t conducive to clear views. At the right time of year you should be able to get more than a glimpse of Himalayan ranges from Nagarkot.

People come here just for sunset views and leave straight away, or, if time allows, spend a few days here and take some gentle hikes in the surrounding hills. There are nice areas of countryside and forest around Nagarkot to walk and the town itself is quite pleasant. We have a full post about Nagarkot and how to get there, things to do there.

Bhaktapur is a beautiful ancient city with its own Durbar Square, the third in the Kathmandu valley. It has its own court and Kumari, and is within striking distance of Kathmandu. If you possibly can, spend a few days here. We fell in love with Bhaktapur after the day-tourists had gone home.

There is an admission fee for Bhaktapur and it’s quite expensive, but accommodation here for us was excellent and cheap. I could easily spend weeks here.

Where to stay in Bhaktapur

Pokhara is Nepal’s second big tourist-draw city after Kathmandu. Most people visiting Nepal will spend some time here which is no easy feat. Pokhara is a full day’s bus ride from Kathmandu on Himalayan roads. Or you can fly, I wouldn’t describe either option as very safe.

The centre point of Pokhara is Fewa Lake (Phewa Lake), popular for boating. Stunning mountain views tower above the Pokhara bowl, adventure activities such as paragliding and white-water rafting are popular here. This is where you’ll need to be to start your Annapurna Range and Poon Hill Treks. Like Kathmandu, Pokhara bristles with backpacker supply shops, restaurants and trekking shops.

You can drive or walk up to the Pokhara peace stupa, Shanti Stupa, for a great view of the lake, town, and mountains. It’s a nice walk down. The International Mountain Museum is also in Pokhara.

Chitwan Nepal

If you want to see royal Bengal tigers or Indian one-horned rhino, Chitwan is the most popular safari destination in Nepal. Chitwan National Park is a conservation success story. If you want to see tigers be sure to visit at the right time of year.

Best time to visit Chitwan National Park Nepal

If you want the best chance of seeing wild tigers at Chitwan National Park Nepal, you need to visit when the grass is short and the animals are going to the waterholes to drink. We visited in November and the grass was so tall we saw nothing other than the resident rhino and crocodiles that hang around the town of Sauraha.

Chitwan is on the lowlands, near the Indian border, in a flat area called The Terai . It gets very hot here, away from the Himalayas. To have your best chance of seeing wildlife, come in April and May before the monsoon. However, it will be very hot at this time of year, getting up to 100F, 28C. For cooler temperatures (around 25C) visit from October to March. The best trekking season does not coincide with the best time to see wildlife in Nepal, so maybe you need several trips!

Where to stay to visit Chitwan National Park Nepal

There are various places to stay to visit Chitwan National Park for a safari. We stayed in the little riverside town of Sauraha and loved it. The hotel we used was this one, where we had a rhino in our garden.

Kathmandu can’t be summed up in one paragraph. It’s one of the most incredible and wonderful cities on the planet and you could be busy exploring and seeing Kathmandu’s ancient sites and temples for weeks.

Kathmandu is at an altitude of 1,400m, 4,593 feet. You are unlikely to feel any altitude effects in Kathmandu, but your acclimatisation will be beginning!

The places we list below are all in Kathmandu or very close, and all worth your time.

Thamel The busy backpacker area of Kathmandu city, packed with shops, guest houses and restaurants. This is where most international visitors to Nepal will stay, but there are a few luxury and better hotels outside Thamel. We list a few below.
Swayambhunath Swayanbhunath Kathmandu is “The Monkey Temple”. Climb steep steps to visit the temple complex and the stunning Swayambhunath stupa. There are many more stupas with Buddha eyes in Kathmandu and elsewhere in Nepal. Read our full post about Swayambhunath here.
Pashupatinath temple is a huge Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. non-Hindus cannot go inside the temple itself but the complex around the temple is fascinating. This is where you will find the burning ghats, Kathmandhu’s creation grounds on the banks of the Bagmati river, this area is open to the public.
Freak Street Freak street was the end of the hippie trail back in the day, when people would travel overland by bus to Nepal. It’s to the south side of the Kathmandu Durbar Square in Basantapur district and is worth visiting for its history and for the phenomenal Newari Girl street art nearby.
Boudhanath, The Boudhanath stupa is a massive round construction in Boudha district. This stupa was badly damaged during the earthquake, we saw it under reconstruction. This area is fascinating with many small shops and a beautiful monastery nearby. You should certainly spend half a day or a few hours in this part of Kathmandu. Boudhanath is about 11km from central Kathmandu.
Narayanhiti Palace has been converted into a museum. The former home of Nepali royalty.
Budhanilkantha Temple. reclining God Vishnu statue.
Kathmandu Durbar Square in Basantapur Kathmandu and Patan Durbar Square in Lalitpur Nepal.
The Golden Temple Nepal, is just off the Patan Durbar Square in Lalitpur in the Kathmandu Valley.
Kumari Ghar
Kasthamandap
The Garden of Dreams, a walled, landscaped gardens area near Thamel. Has an admission fee.
Hanuman Dhoka Durbar

Best Time to Visit Kathmandu Nepal

The best time to visit Kathmandu is between September or October, to November, as during this time the country has clear blue skies, drier weather, comfortable temperatures between 28C highs and 8C Lows and several cultural events such as Diwali. Visiting during Diwali is truly amazing, and will begin next year on the 12 of November.

Where to Stay to Visit Kathmandu Nepal

There are endless accommodation options in Kathmandu, from luxury to the simple guest houses and tea houses that originally housed travellers to the city. These days there are more and more modern and boutique hotels appearing, particularly around Thamel, the backpacker district of Kathmandu.

If you’re looking for high-end luxury accommodation then the Hotel Shanker is a great choice. Featuring accommodation for up to 4 people and family rooms, the Hotel Shanker works well for families. The building itself is also beautiful and well-located, being a refurbished palace and quite close to Thamel. The hotel also features several amenities such as a gym, breakfasts, swimming pool, spa, and airport transfer. Look into getting a reservation here.

Within walking distance of Thamel, Swayambhunath and Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pomelo House Hotel offers a much more budget experience, while still providing multiple room configurations that can accommodate families. The Hotel also provides airport transfer and bike or car rentals. you take a look at rooms and prices here.

Jomsom is another town visited by trekkers in the Annapurna region of western Nepal. It is one of the major towns on the Annapurna Circuit. Jomsom, or Dzongsam is in the Gharapjhong rural municipality of the Mustang district and lies at an elevation of 2,740 metres in Gandaki Province.

Jomsom now has an airport and you can fly here from Pokhara.

The landscape around Jomsom is incredible, the ravine carved by the Kali Gandaki River is the deepest in the world and this town can be the start point of a trek into Mustang, or to Muktinath (below). You can now get to Jomsom by road, until fairly recently this was impossible.

The road is rough and you’ll need a 4 wheel drive jeep or smilar. Jomsom is about 157 Km from Pokhara and 360 km from Kathmandu. It’s also possible to rent horses to cover some of these distances in the region.

From Jomson you can walk up to Muktinath in about 6 hours, or you can take a jeep if weather allows. There is a big altitude gain between Jomsom and Muktinath. There are teahouses or lodges to stay in both towns.

Along the river valley here look out for black fossilised stones or shaligram, containing ammonites, symbolic of the god Vishnu. You will see these for sale all over Nepal but they are said to only be found here, on the bed of the Khali Gandaki river.

I’ve walked the entire length of this river bed and not found one, but I have one at home, bought in Kathmandu.

Muktinath has a phenomenal temple for you to visit. The temple at Muktinath is depicted to Lord Vishnu, and is sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists.

Here 108 bull heads pour sacred water in the outer temple. Brave pilgrims take an icy shower in each of these. But that’s not all, at Muktinath you will also find an eternal sacred flame, natural gas gives the illusion of water burning. This makes this temple unique in that fire, water, earth, sky, and air are represented here.

This is one of the very best places to see on the Annapurna circuit, or today, you can get here by jeep or plane (to Jomsom) weather allowing.

Muktinath is at an altitude of 3,710 m, 12,172 feet.

Muktinath is your first stop after crossing the Thorong La from Manali on the Annapurna Circuit. There are places to stay in Muktinath.

The Thorong La

I have crossed the Thorong La in deep snow and blizzard in February. I wouldn’t recommend visiting at this time of year, but it is possible to complete the Annapurna Circuit in winter. There was even a tiny tea house open at the top of this high pass.

The Thorong La in Nepal is at an altitude of 5.416m, 17,770 feet. It is 200 feet higher than Everest Base Camp (5364m), and it’s a tough walk. To cross the Thorong La trekkers normally start around 4am in the dark.

Kagbeni, a wonderful ancient small town in the valley of the Kali Gandaki River. This town is in Mustang and also on the Annapurna Circuit Trek between Jomsom and the Thorong La high pass.

There is a fantastic old monastery in Kagbeni and here we stayed in one of the strangest buildings we’ve ever seen on these teahouse treks. My photos were stolen a long time ago, I just have memories and one or two left that you see on this page.

Kabeni is at an altitude of 2,804m, 9,199 feet.

Kagbeni is also the name of a movie. This Nepali film is based loosely on W. W. Jacobs’s 1902 horror short story The Monkey’s Paw. The Monkey’s Paw is also a movie in its own right. The Kagbeni movie was shot in 2006 in Kagbeni, Jomsom, Marpha, and Shyang in the Mustang district of Nepal.

The walk from Kagbeni to Muktinath is about 13 Km, they say you can complete this in 3 and a half hours, uphill. Downhill the walk is only about 2 hours. I’ve only done it downhill, in snow.

The views of the Khali Gadaki River valley from Kagbeni are pretty phenomenal.

Chandragiri

Chandragiri hills and cable car is another hill-top place to take in views of the Himalayas. If you don’t want to take the gondola up, you can walk or drive to the top.

The Chandragiri Hills complex is about 45 mins west of Kathmandu by road and offers views from the Annapurnas to Everest on a clear day.

Janaki Temple

This architectural marvel is said to be on the spot where the goddess Sita was born and married Rama. It is an incredible white building made of marble and stone in the Rajput style, located on the southern Terai of Nepal at Janakpur.

The temple complex of shrines and ponds is about 225 Km to the south east of the Kathmandu Valley. This temple is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.

Langtang National Park

Langtang is a famous trekkers’ destination with beautiful trails through forested hills. It is home to the sacred Gosaikunda Lake and some incredible wildlife. It’s only 32 Km from the north of Kathmandu city.

Best Places For Trekking in Nepal

There are many treks in Nepal, some take a day, some 2 days, some a month. There are also some short day hikes to enjoy in more accessible places such as Nagarkot. See our post on trekking in Nepal for more details.

These treks in the high, remote parts of Nepal will take you to some truly iconic destinations. Mount Everest itself, the Khumbu icefall and glacier, Namche Bazaar , Tengboche Monastery and Lukla airport will feature on your Everest Base Camp trek. You will also be exploring the Sagarmatha National Park.

Head to the Annapurnas and you’ll get the chance to see the Thorong La pass, Jomsom and Kagbeni. You can take a look into Mustang, but special permits are needed for a Mustang trek. It will be our next trek when borders open.

If you want to find out more about the Everest Base Camp trek and how difficult it is (we took the kids!) read about that here.

Best Places in Nepal-Video

Whatever you choose to do, I’m sure you’ll love Nepal. We made a very short video below to let you see what’s ahead of you in Nepal. Watch below!

Our places to visit in Nepal post grows daily, I’m adding Pokhara , Swayambhunath and Pashupatinath in coming days. Do check back, or better still , bookmark our post to Pinterest. For more tips and guides to help you plan your trip to Nepal you’ll need to head back to our main Nepal Travel post.

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If you'd like to hire a car during your stay, use this car rental comparison tool to find the best deal! We also suggest you take a look at this company to get a quote for all kinds of the more tricky adventure or extended travel insurance. Try Stayz / VRBO for an alternative way to find rentals on homes/apartments/condos in any country!

Alyson Long

Swim with manta rays in bali, cairns to port douglas 2024, 4 thoughts on “best places to visit in nepal (for first timers)”.

Thanks for sharing a lot of information about Nepal and its traveling places. Many people want to trek in Nepal they easily understand the tips during trekking.

Thank you for the wonderful content. You can visit Nepal and try Upper Mustang Trek too.

That’s the next trek we want to do. We were about to go when the borders closed. Hopefully we’ll make it in 2023.

We did, we loved it, it’s mentioned in our post as a tourist highlight on Nepal and the conservation work there is impressive. Sadly climate change is causing major issues in Nepal.

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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I've been to 54 countries and have lived in 10. These 5 underrated places are worth the trip.

Kate Boardman has visited 54 countries around the world and lived in 10, including the US.
She's enjoyed spots like France and Bali but says people should visit underrated places like Oman.
In Guatemala, she climbed an active volcano, and in Ecuador, she swam with hammerhead sharks.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Kate Boardman , a 36-year-old former teacher and current content creator from Massachusetts who has lived and traveled all over the world. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

I first lived abroad when I was 15, when I participated in an exchange program in Germany. I lived there for a year, attending school and staying with a host family.

That was my first exposure to living overseas and truly immersing myself in other cultures. From there, the travel bug hit me hard. It inspired me to study international business in France while I was at university, and future trips after that.

I've been to 54 countries and lived in 10, including the US. The sense of freedom and self-growth that comes from traveling is unbeatable. I also love being able to see the world in a different way.

The most popular destinations are popular for a reason.

Everyone talks about Paris, London , Bali — all travel destinations that are super popular, in part thanks to social media.

I visited Bali in early 2012 and saw it expand firsthand. There was a lot of construction — with many beach clubs being built — and it became overcrowded by foreigners. It's led to locals being priced out of their homes.

I also think spots like Cancun are super overrated; there are way cooler places to visit in Mexico. Many tourists spend a week in an all-inclusive resort and think that's fun — but that couldn't be more unattractive to me.

Obviously, there's still beauty in places that are oversaturated and famous. But I think that there's an excitement that comes from experiencing places that are off the beaten track.

It's often in those places that you can have the most surprising experiences.

I was treated like family in Iran

I would say my favorite country that I have visited is Iran. I went in 2018 and was there for 10 days.

Normally, when I'm traveling, I backpack alone and stay in hostels as a solo traveler. However, in Iran, if you're American, Canadian, or from the UK, in order to get permission to enter the country, you need a set itinerary and a licensed travel guide.

It was a very coordinated trip and a bit more challenging to visit, but it was so rewarding because I was welcomed with the warmest hospitality.

One of the unique aspects of this trip was how close my guide and I became. He went above and beyond, inviting me over to his family's house for dinner, where I got to meet and hang out with his friends and family. It was truly special.

Because I had a guide, everything was kind of set for me in Iran. He arranged different accommodations, including a road trip through the country, where we stayed in various cities at different guesthouses.

It only cost me around $1,000.

The nature and landscape of Iran are absolutely beautiful and amazing. The sights, attractions, and history are mind-blowing. You've got these gorgeous mosaics everywhere. All of the architecture had my jaw dropping in awe while walking around.

The food is also delicious, and the markets are incredible, each filled with gorgeous textiles, jewelry, turquoise, and rugs.

I would totally visit there again. I hope the political situation changes because that would definitely be one of my group trip destinations. I think it's just incredible.

Georgia took me by surprise

Georgia is just one of those countries that's not on a lot of people's radar. And then they go there and they're like, 'Whoa, that's awesome. Why didn't I know about this before?'

I knew very little about Georgia before I visited in 2018. I spent only five days in the country, but I was completely blown away.

I stayed in Tbilisi, which is the capital city. It's a really beautiful, trendy, and artsy kind of city. It has amazing wine and incredible food.

Probably one of my favorite things about the trip is that I stayed in this hostel called Fabrika . It was an old Soviet Union sewing factory that they turned into a super cool, industrial, hipster hostel.

In Tbilisi, I also went on a pub crawl throughout the Old Town, which featured a bunch of underground cellars and bunkers that have been turned into trendy nightclubs and bars.

During my time in the country, I took a trip out to the countryside to an area called Kazbegi, which is absolutely stunning. There were gorgeous and breathtaking mountains, hills, and massive churches.

Guatemala has something for everyone

When most people from the US think about going to Central America, they're focused on Mexico or Costa Rica. Guatemala seems to be a place that kind of gets overlooked.

But life is great in Guatemala.

You've got beautiful weather all year round, the jungle, rainforests, and the Caribbean's white sand beaches, while the Pacific side has its black sand beaches. It's got a little bit of everything.

I first lived in Guatemala in 2021, where I worked as a teacher at an international school. They provided housing in Guatemala City. However, after I finished working for them, I moved to a beach town on the Pacific coast and lived there for about six months.

I've traveled there on other occasions too, staying for periods of four or five months.

The typical salary for a Guatemalan is about $500 a month, with a good salary being $1,000. I would say that $2,000 a month is more than enough to live there extremely comfortably.

There are a lot of digital nomads moving there, especially to Antigua — an old colonial town with a lot of charm, cobblestone streets, and painted buildings.

There's just so much to do in Guatemala; it's so magical.

The biggest must do is hiking the active volcano called Acatenango . Sometimes, you can see it erupting right from its base camp. There's not many places in the world where you can experience that.

Another good place to visit is El Paredon, a super up-and-coming hippie surf town. The surfing is great, and you've got these black volcanic sand beaches. It's just a really laid-back place.

Lake Atitlan is also an incredible spot. It's surrounded by volcanoes and several Mayan villages, each with its own personality and vibe.

Oman's deserts are magical

Oman is in the Middle East, bordering the United Arab Emirates and Yemen. I've been there three times between 2016 and 2018.

The country is culturally rich, and the capital city, Muscat, is really beautiful. It has old traditional marketplaces and gorgeous architecture — the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is definitely worth checking out.

The deserts there are incredible, so doing a desert trip is a must. I camped out in the desert with the locals, rode camels, and drove Jeeps over the sand dunes.

Having tea and watching the sunset in the desert was magical too.

Oman also has wadis, which are basically big canyons in the middle of the desert with swimming holes. There, you'll find bright turquoise water contrasting with the orange rock.

The country's islands are also beautiful and incredible for snorkeling. They look like you'd be in the Caribbean, but you're in the Middle East.

The Galapagos Islands are truly like nowhere else in the world

I visited Ecuador last year for about six weeks. I was leading a gap year program with a group of high school students. We split our time between the Galapagos Islands and the mainland, which consisted of cities and the Amazon.

Because Ecuador has incredibly unique biodiversity that doesn't exist anywhere else in the world, The Galapagos Islands are an absolute must. I've never seen such incredible wildlife in my life; so many species exist only on those islands.

While visiting The Galapagos, my group went snorkeling with 50 to 100 hammerhead and Blacktip sharks. We also swam with sea lions and saw giant tortoises.

Another amazing aspect of Ecuador is learning about the Inca culture. My group did a homestay and lived with a family for about 10 days and learned about their way of life.

We experienced how connected they are with Mother Earth, whom they refer to as Pachamama, and learned about their traditional medicine: They grow their own food and seek out plant medicine when they're sick, rather than relying on processed foods.

Learning about and sharing their way of life was truly special.

I want to show people how to travel the world

There are many beliefs people have about different countries and cultures, sometimes considering them too dangerous, expensive, or unattainable.

I want to inspire more people to explore, step out of their comfort zones, and experience more of the world. I am hosting group trips with the goal of bringing people to these countries and showing them why they are so life-changing.

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16 Incredible Places to Stargaze Around the World

Posted: February 16, 2024 | Last updated: March 21, 2024

<p>Bryce Canyon is one of more than a dozen certified Dark Sky Places in Utah, among them Rainbow Bridge National Monument, Canyonlands National Park, and Arches National Park.</p><p>Photo by Shutterstock</p><p>The closest most city dwellers get to <a class="Link" href="https://www.afar.com/magazine/incredible-u-s-national-parks-for-stargazing" rel="noopener">stargazing</a> is scoping the latest celebrity gossip in the grocery store check-out line, thanks to city lights and air pollution. But there’s nothing quite like looking up into an expansive night sky dotted with shooting stars, planets, and constellations. <a class="Link" href="https://darksky.org/" rel="noopener">DarkSky,</a> founded in 1988 as the International Dark-Sky Association, recognizes more than 200 places—urban settings, national parks, nature reserves—that preserve the planet’s darkest, most star-filled skies. <a class="Link" href="https://whc.unesco.org/en/astronomy/" rel="noopener">UNESCO</a> also recognizes a number of certified Starlight Reserves on its list of Astronomical Heritage sites. </p><p>These spectacular stargazing spots offer visitors opportunities to learn more about the universe and reconnect with the incredible planet we all call home. From Utah to Namibia, here 16 of the world’s best places for stargazing. </p>

Bryce Canyon is one of more than a dozen certified Dark Sky Places in Utah, among them Rainbow Bridge National Monument, Canyonlands National Park, and Arches National Park.

Photo by Shutterstock

The closest most city dwellers get to stargazing is scoping the latest celebrity gossip in the grocery store check-out line, thanks to city lights and air pollution. But there’s nothing quite like looking up into an expansive night sky dotted with shooting stars, planets, and constellations. DarkSky, founded in 1988 as the International Dark-Sky Association, recognizes more than 200 places—urban settings, national parks, nature reserves—that preserve the planet’s darkest, most star-filled skies. UNESCO also recognizes a number of certified Starlight Reserves on its list of Astronomical Heritage sites.

These spectacular stargazing spots offer visitors opportunities to learn more about the universe and reconnect with the incredible planet we all call home. From Utah to Namibia, here 16 of the world’s best places for stargazing.

<p>The closest most city dwellers get to <a class="Link" href="https://www.afar.com/magazine/incredible-u-s-national-parks-for-stargazing" rel="noopener">stargazing</a> is scoping the latest celebrity gossip in the grocery store check-out line, thanks to city lights and air pollution. But there’s nothing quite like looking up into an expansive night sky dotted with shooting stars, planets, and constellations. <a class="Link" href="https://darksky.org/" rel="noopener">DarkSky,</a> founded in 1988 as the International Dark-Sky Association, recognizes more than 200 places—urban settings, national parks, nature reserves—that preserve the planet’s darkest, most star-filled skies. <a class="Link" href="https://whc.unesco.org/en/astronomy/" rel="noopener">UNESCO</a> also recognizes a number of certified Starlight Reserves on its list of Astronomical Heritage sites. </p> <p>These spectacular stargazing spots offer visitors opportunities to learn more about the universe and reconnect with the incredible planet we all call home. From Utah to Namibia, here 16 of the world’s best places for stargazing. </p> <h2>1. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah</h2> <p>One of many <a class="Link" href="https://www.afar.com/magazine/utahs-8-best-national-parks-and-monuments" rel="noopener">national parks in the southwestern United States</a>, <a class="Link" href="https://www.afar.com/places/bryce-canyon-national-park-bryce" rel="noopener">Bryce Canyon</a> is particularly noteworthy for its surreal-looking hoodoo rock formations and its especially starry night skies. The more than 35,000-acre national park in Utah is less-visited than the nearby <a class="Link" href="https://www.afar.com/travel-guides/united-states/arizona/grand-canyon-national-park/guide" rel="noopener">Grand Canyon</a> (which <a class="Link" href="https://www.afar.com/magazine/the-grand-canyon-is-the-newest-dark-sky-park-in-the-united-states" rel="noopener">is also an International Dark Sky Park</a>)—and thus, it’s better for more remote stargazing and <a class="Link" href="https://www.nps.gov/brca/planyourvisit/astrofest.htm" rel="noopener">astronomy programming</a>. On nightly excursions led by the park’s highly trained Astronomy Rangers, visitors can check out up to 7,500 stars, see a horizon-to-horizon view of the Milky Way, and catch glimpses of both Venus and Jupiter. </p>

1. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

One of many national parks in the southwestern United States , Bryce Canyon is particularly noteworthy for its surreal-looking hoodoo rock formations and its especially starry night skies. The more than 35,000-acre national park in Utah is less-visited than the nearby Grand Canyon (which is also an International Dark Sky Park )—and thus, it’s better for more remote stargazing and astronomy programming . On nightly excursions led by the park’s highly trained Astronomy Rangers, visitors can check out up to 7,500 stars, see a horizon-to-horizon view of the Milky Way, and catch glimpses of both Venus and Jupiter.

2. Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, New Zealand

New Zealand ’s Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve was established in 2012 to recognize the incredible stargazing opportunities in the Mackenzie Basin on the South Island. At this one of just 20 Dark Sky Reserves in the world, visitors flock toward the reserve’s planetarium, telescope areas, and observatories, where guided tours are offered at both the Lake Tekapo Earth and Sky and Aoraki/Mount Cook visitor centers. On clear nights in the reserve, which comprises Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, it’s often possible to see the aurora australis, the Southern Cross, and the Southern Star—all with the park’s namesake peak (reaching more than 12,000 feet) in the backdrop.

3. NamibRand Nature Reserve, Namibia

The NamibRand Nature Reserve lies in what DarkSky calls “ one of the naturally darkest (yet accessible) places on Earth ,” due to the fact that the closest inhabited communities are at least 60 miles from its location. The nearly 500,000-acre stretch of land in southwestern Namibia is protected by the Namib Desert Environmental Education Trust (NaDEET) Center , which runs educational environmental programs in the area (mostly for local students). Visitors seeking the NamibRand Nature Reserve stargazing experience should check out the Wolwedans camps and lodges , where travelers can book a sustainably focused overnight stay in the starry-skied desert.

4. La Palma and Tenerife, Canary Islands

The Canary Islands are home to three UNESCO-recognized “Starlight Reserves” designated by the nonprofit Starlight Foundation . The starry night sky can be viewed clearly from across the Atlantic Ocean archipelago, but both professional and amateur astronomers are typically directed to La Palma and Tenerife for the booming astro-tourism industry. These two islands are home to three observatory areas set up by the Tenerife-based Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias . Some of the best places to stargaze on these islands include the Garajonay Summit and San Bartolo Mountain (La Palma) and El Palmar viewpoint and Guajara Mountain (Tenerife).

5. Mauna Kea, Hawai‘i

Located on the Big Island , dormant volcano Mauna Kea offers both the highest peak in Hawai‘i as well as the best stargazing opportunities in the region. About halfway up Mauna Kea, which reaches nearly 14,000 feet above sea level, the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy Visitor Information Station offers a stargazing program for visitors. From there, visitors can continue to the volcano’s summit with their own four-wheel-drive vehicle or as part of a guided excursion . (Still, it’s advised that travelers pause at the midway point to acclimatize to the dramatic change in elevation.)

6. Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal

This UNESCO World Heritage site is widely known to travelers for a reason other than its stargazing; Sagarmatha National Park in Nepal is also home to the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest. Still, visitors don’t need to be ready to trek the slopes of this not-so-gentle giant to get a memorable experience in the area. The national park includes a series of hiking trails on slightly more approachable mountain peaks as well as a lower-altitude forested zone, where adventurers can view towering Mount Everest surrounded by a broad night sky and smattering of bright stars.

7. Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve, Ireland

The Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve occupies the southwest area of Ireland on the Iveragh Peninsula and along the Wild Atlantic Way . At night, this land between the Kerry Mountains and Atlantic Ocean offers a breathtaking dark and starry sky undisturbed by the nine inhabited villages within its parameters. Guests to this remote part of Ireland can stay at a number of locally owned properties around the reserve.

8. Denali National Park Reserve, Alaska

This 6-million-acre preserve of land in Alaska is home to a slew of native wildlife, such as grizzly bears and caribou, as well as Denali mountain peak, the highest summit in North America. Far removed from light and noise pollution, the unspoiled landscape within Denali National Park isn’t reserved for sightseeing the land—visitors are also encouraged to turn their heads toward the sky, where stars, planets, and even the aurora borealis (northern lights) are visible in the dark night sky throughout most of the year. Those looking for optimum stargazing opportunities should visit the national park during fall, winter, or spring, when the area experiences longer periods of darkness, for extended hours of world-class stargazing.

9. Atacama Desert and Elqui Valley, Chile

Low rainfall, high altitude, and scant light pollution in Chile’s greater Atacama–Elqui region make it the “North Star” of astro-tourism—at least here on Earth. The 90,000-acre Elqui Valley, which is also known for its wine production, became the first-ever International Dark Sky Sanctuary in 2015. (It’s named the Gabriela Mistral Dark Sky Sanctuary in honor of the 20th-century Nobel Prize–winning poet Gabriela Mistral, who spent her childhood in the Chilean region.) About five hours north of the Elqui Valley, the tourist-friendly town of San Pedro de Atacama offers a mix of budget hostels and luxury accommodations in the Atacama Desert, such as the sustainable Atacama Lodge .

10. Uluru, Australia

The Sounds of Silence tour ($250–$300 per adult for a four-hour tour, including dinner and drinks) at Ayers Rock Resort begins at sunset, when the iconic rock formations of Uluru and Kata Tjuta glow fiery red. After a short walk through the dunes to a panoramic viewpoint, participants settle at their tables to dine outdoors on Aussie fare. When night falls, one of the resort’s resident star talkers directs diners to sights in the southern sky and explains the stars’ significance in the culture of Uluru’s traditional landowners, the Aboriginal Anangu people. The resort also offers a family-friendly Outback Sky Tour ($60 per adult), which takes groups out for a one-hour stargazing excursion.

11. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado

Sculpted by the winds of time, the golden-hued slopes found at this lesser-known national park in southern Colorado are among the tallest sand dunes in North America. This quiet corner of the state sees little light pollution and mostly cloudless nights, making spotting the Milky Way from any part of the park easy. If you come in the summer, check out what Free Ranger Programs are being offered—many of the events celebrate and educate on the stars above.

12. Death Valley National Park, California and Nevada

Any place that throws an annual dark sky festival in collaboration with NASA is bound to be celestially superior. Here, 282 feet below sea level—the lowest elevation on Earth—is a vast desert landscape that makes for an e xtraordinary place for night exploration .

Throughout the summer, rangers lead talks and presentations on preserving and appreciating the night sky. They also make recommendations (places such as Zabriskie Point, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, or Harmony Borax Works) for astrophotographers to capture the night sky. And for those who are keen on extending their trip, they suggest checking out the Park to Park in the Dark route , which connects Death Valley and Great Basin National Park.

13. Great Basin National Park, Nevada

Situated between two mammoth mountain ranges (the Sierra Nevada in California and the Wasatch Mountains of Utah), Great Basin National Park is shielded from the light pollution of most cities. It’s also one of the most remote national parks in the Lower 48, making it challenging to visit. However, each summer, the Nevada Northern Railway company in Ely, Nevada, offers a weekly Star Train , where travelers can board the train with rangers from the park to chug into the reserve to learn about the heavens.

14. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minnesota

Spanning more than 1 million acres across northeastern Minnesota , this wilderness area was likely best known for paddling and fishing in glacial lakes and streams and hiking in forests and rocky cliffs—all daytime activities—until 2020, when it was named a Dark Sky Sanctuary. Here sky gazers can see the Milky Way; the planets Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn (all without the help of a telescope); various constellations; and, in the winter, the northern lights.

15. Greater Big Bend International Dark Sky Reserve, Texas and Mexico

Currently the largest land area on Earth protected for dark skies, roughly 9 million acres of protected nighttime darkness straddle the border in southwestern Texas and northern Mexico. While the reserve’s name only refers to Big Bend National Park , it also includes Big Bend Ranch State Park and Black Gap Wildlife Management Area in Texas, as well as three protected areas in Mexico —Maderas del Carmen, Ocampo, and Cañón de Santa Elena. It is the world’s first binational International Dark Sky Reserve.

Here, the Milky Way casts a dazzling, dappled glow across the inky canvas, and visitors can join guided night sky programs led by park rangers to understand better the cosmos and the importance of preserving natural darkness. It’s also possible to visit the McDonald Observatory in Fort Davis, Texas, for a deeper dive into the galaxy.

16. Wadi Rum, Jordan

The otherworldly rock formations and red desert landscape of this nearly 185,000-acre protected area have been featured in movies like Dune and The Martian , but this desert arguably shines best at night. Travel to this remote part of southern Jordan and you can see the Milky Way with your naked eye; Wadi Rum’s extreme isolation makes this an ideal place to take in the full expanse of the stars above. Spend the night at a Bedouin camp and you can learn not only about the stars but also about Bedouin customs and the realities of desert living.

This article originally appeared online in 2017; it was most recently updated on February 16, 2024, to include current information.

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THE 30 BEST Places to Visit in Nepal (UPDATED 2024)
1. Boudhanath Stupa. Bouddhanath stupa is the most liked sightseeing place in Kathmandu. Visitors are required to pay NRs. 250 (Foreign Nationals) NRs. 50 (SAARC Nationals) NRs. 250 (Chinese) per person (Below 10 years free) as entrance fees to the Bouddhanath. A lot of Tibetan people reside around the Stupa.
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13. Chitlang. 4.0 /5. 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.
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WHAT TO DO IN NEPAL | BEST THINGS TO DO IN THE KATHMANDU VALLEY #1 EMBRACE TIBETAN CULTURE AT BOUDHANATH STUPA. If you want to experience Kathmandu's spiritual side, Boudhanath stupa really is a must visit attraction in Nepal.. Boudhanath Stupa, a vast 14th-century spherical Buddhist stupa that also proudly holds the dual titles of largest in Nepal, and the holiest Tibetan Buddhist temple ...
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The best places to visit in Nepal, from mountains to Buddha's birthplace . Jan 9, 2022 • 8 min read. Nepal is the destination with everything: towering Himalayan peaks, wild jungles, sacred sites and epic trekking routes. Here are the best places to visit.
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Best for a Buddhist pilgrimage. A short drive west of the Terai town of Siddharthanagar (also known as Bhairawa), Lumbini is one of Buddhism's holiest sites. In the middle of the Sacred Garden, the Maya Devi Temple marks the precise spot where Siddhartha Gautama - better known as the Buddha - was born in 563 BCE.
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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. On This Page: 1. Kathmandu. 2. Bhaktapur. 3.
Top 10 Places to Visit in Nepal and What to Do
Nepal is a country of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and spiritual tranquility. Whether you want to trek in the Himalayas, explore ancient temples, or experience the local festivals, there are plenty of places to visit in Nepal that will suit your interests. Here are some of the top destinations and activities that you can enjoy in this peaceful country.
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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] gregw66 / Flickr. The Annapurna Circuit in northwest Nepal offers hikers an outdoor experience nonpareil.
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9. White water rafting. 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.
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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 ...
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Pokhra Valley. The Pokhara Valley is the second most popular place in Nepal for tourists as it is the staging post for the superb Annapurna circuit. Come here to enjoy incredible views of the high mountain peaks. You can engage in Paragliding, caving, boating, or simply relax with a glass of wine after a long trek.
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Inspire your trip with these must-visit places and top things to do for first-time travelers. 1. Pokhara. Sunset view at Phewa Lake in Pokhara, Nepal. Location: Kaski District, Gandaki Province, west central Nepal. Save on Google Maps. Pokhara is the second largest city of Nepal after Kathmandu.
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Best places to visit in West Nepal. Annapurna Region . The Annapurna region is Nepal's most diverse and popular trekking destination. It is the focal point for the area of Annapurna, the mountain range comprising Annapurna I, the first of the 8,000 m high peaks to be scaled. Dhaulagiri, another 8,000-meter giant massif Annapurna I, also lies in ...
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Built just after World War 2 by Buddhist monks ,the World Peace Pagoda is one of over 80 world peace pagodas in the…. See ways to experience (38) 10. Garden of Dreams. 4,078. Gardens. The Garden of Dreams, a neo classical historical garden, is situated in the midst of Kathmandu city, Nepal.
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It is one of the best places to see in Nepal for its exemplary architecture, interiors, grandeur, art pieces, ornaments, furniture, and the historical importance that it carries. Location: Narayanhiti Palace Museum North Gate Rd, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal Timings: 11:00 am to 2:00 pm (Closed on Tuesday and Wednesday)
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Therefore, let's explore some of the best places to visit in Nepal. Cultural gems. Beyond the stunning landscapes, Nepal features a tapestry of cultures, traditions, and historical sites each offering unique experiences to the visitors. Kathmandu. The heart of Nepal, Kathmandu Valley is the capital city of the country. Not just geographically ...
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That's it! Now you know all the beautiful places to visit in Nepal! Here's a Nepal travel guide now! Nepal travel budget. Accommodation is not expensive in Nepal. A night in a hostel dorm costs around 500 NPR ($4). One night in a basic guesthouse costs around 1,000 NPR ($8). You'll pay about 2,000 NPR ($16.50) per night to stay in a mid ...
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Pokhara. One of the most popular places to visit in Nepal is Pokhara, which is also one of Nepal's most scenic cities. Breathtaking Pokhara, the country's second-largest city, is located on the shores of Phewa Lake at the feet of some of the world's biggest mountains and is a gateway to the Himalayas and the Annapurna Circuit.
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The Boudhanath is also known as Khasa Chaitya and has huge massive mandala which makes the largest spherical stupa. One of the best places to visit in Nepal, Boudhanath was at one point in time has helped a lot of refugees get shelter. It was listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site in the year 1979. Various souvenir shops and cafes surround ...
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Kathmandu, has to be THE best city to visit in Nepal. Kathmandu can't be summed up in one paragraph. It's one of the most incredible and wonderful cities on the planet and you could be busy exploring and seeing Kathmandu's ancient sites and temples for weeks. Kathmandu is at an altitude of 1,400m, 4,593 feet.
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Follow this guide to the best tourist places to visit in Nepal and experience the unique tapestry of culture and landscape. What makes Nepal truly wonderful is the opportunity to catch views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, from nearly all of the tourist places. Discovering the best places to visit in Nepal Kathmandu
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Muktinath. 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.
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The best places to visit in Nepal, from mountains to Buddha's birthplace

Kathmandu, Nepal's historic, foodie capital

The Himalayas, the world's favorite trekking destination

Bodhnath, Kathmandu's most spectacular stupa

Meet tigers and rhinos in Chitwan National Park

Bhaktapur, Nepal's best-preserved medieval town

Pokhara, gateway to the Annapurna range

Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha

Encounters with royal history in Gorkha

Bandipur, Nepal's most charming hill getaway

Bardia National Park, for quieter nature encounters

Janakpur, Nepal's other sacred city

Get Himalayan views without the hard work in Nagarkot

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1.Kathmandu: World Heritage Sites

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5. Pokhara: Tourist Capital of Nepal

6. Chitwan National Park: Wildlife Paradise

7. Lumbini: Birthplace of Lord Buddha

8. Janakpur: City of Ponds

9. Bandipur: Remarkable Newari Town

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10. Lumbini [SEE MAP]

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2. Annapurna Circuit [SEE MAP]

1. Kathmandu [SEE MAP]