places to visit around nepal

8 of the best places to visit in Nepal

May 22, 2024 • 7 min read

Experience the best of Nepal's stunning sacred sights and magnificent mountains © fotoVoyager / Getty Images

Nepal is small in size but it’s big on variety. Best-known for its mountains, the Himalayan nation also contains historic towns, wildlife-filled national parks, Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage sites, tea fields and much more. 

When planning your trip to Nepal , your main activities should determine your destinations. To trek, head to the mountains, naturally. But which mountains? Different regions offer different experiences, and are more or less challenging to reach from the main cities.

To help you choose, here’s a round-up of the top places to visit in Nepal, whether you want to do some gentle sightseeing or have more active plans.

1. Kathmandu Valley

Best for historic palaces and temples

Almost all trips to Nepal start in the Kathmandu Valley , and the capital region deserves plenty of time. Historically composed of several separate kingdoms — the most prominent being Kathmandu , Patan/Lalitpur , and Bhaktapur  — nowadays, the roughly 25km-wide (15-mile) Kathmandu Valley is one big urban sprawl, with ever-diminishing farmland around the edges. The human history of the valley dates back millennia, and visitors can still see ancient temples and medieval palaces, and encounter traditional indigenous Newari culture, among the haphazard modern concrete constructions.

Of greatest interest to travelers are central Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur. These three ancient towns together comprise a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with seven different monument zones: the Durbar (royal) Squares of Kathmandu , Patan, and Bhaktapur, and the Hindu and Buddhist sites of Pashupatinath Temple , Boudhanath Stupa , Swayambhunath Stupa , and Changu Narayan . Note that although the first six are popular tourist destinations, far fewer people visit Changu Narayan, on the north-eastern edge of the Kathmandu Valley, so head there to avoid the hustle in peak season. 

Planning tip: Despite common misconceptions, Kathmandu isn’t all that high, at 1400m (4600ft); you’re extremely unlikely to feel any effects of altitude, and the weather leans hot more often than not, especially between March and October.

Ready to go? Here's our seasonal guide to the best time to visit Nepal

2. Solukhumbu District

For the mighty mother mountain Sagarmatha, aka Mt Everest

When the weather is really, really clear, and if you know exactly where to look, you may be able to get a glimpse of a sliver of Mt Everest (Sagarmatha in Nepali, Chomolongma in Sherpa) from Kathmandu. Otherwise, you’ll need to head to the Solukhumbu District, north-east of the capital, to see the world’s highest mountain. 

There’s no road to Everest (on the Nepal side of the border) so most people embarking on the Everest Base Camp trek in the Solukhumbu District fly from Kathmandu to Lukla, a village a few days’ walk from the mountain. Solukhumbu contains the Sagarmatha National Park, and is mostly home to Sherpa people, who have a distinct Tibetan-derived culture. 

Planning tip: If you don’t have time to trek into the Solukhumbu District, take a scenic Everest flight from Kathmandu for views of the mountain.

Get ready to trek to Everest Base Camp with our planning guide

Best for a taste of Tibet

On the northern side of the Annapurna Range, on the edge of the Tibetan Plateau, is the Mustang Region, a barren, windswept landscape that’s home to ethnically Tibetan people. Catch a short flight from Pokhara to Jomsom through the deepest gorge in the world, the Kali Gandaki Gorge, or take a bone-rattling 160km (100-mile) ride in a 4WD. Or, trek there on the Annapurna Circuit .

Mustang is divided into Lower and Upper, and the distinction matters. Lower Mustang is easily accessible (aside from the logistical challenge of getting there) to all, whereas non-Nepali tourists can only visit Upper Mustang on a guided tour and have to pay a hefty fee of at least US$500 for a special 10-day permit and US$50 per day thereafter. Highlights include the apple-growing village of Marpha, Kagbeni village on the Kali Gandaki River, the Muktinath Temple Hindu pilgrimage site, and Upper Mustang’s walled capital, Lo Manthang.

Planning tip: Mustang is all but inaccessible during the monsoon (June through to early September), when the roads are often washed out and flights frequently canceled, and the winter, when it's extremely cold and snowy, especially Upper Mustang.

Best for a chilled-out lakeside vibe

Pokhara , 200km (125 miles) west of the capital and Nepal’s second city, couldn’t be much more different from Kathmandu. On the shores of Lake Phewa (Phewa Tal) and sitting at the foot of the Annapurna Himalaya, the mountain views from Pokhara are next level. 

Many people come to Pokhara on the way to and from a trek in the Annapurnas , as there are vehicle connections and flight to far-flung mountain towns from here. You can also enjoy paddling a rowboat on the lake, affordable sundowners on the Lakeside strip, white water rafting on the Seti River, paragliding from Sarangkot Hill, visiting the Shanti Stupa (World Peace Pagoda), and riding the Annapurna Cable Car up to a lookout across the mountains.

Planning tip: If you suffer from respiratory conditions, or are traveling with kids, you may want to prioritize Pokhara over Kathmandu as its air quality is better, and there’s less traffic. 

5. Annapurna Himalaya

Best for numerous trekking trails

You don’t need to venture far beyond Pokhara to reach the Annapurna Himalaya — the trailheads for many treks into this range begin around an hour’s drive from the city. From the distinctive pointed peak of Mt Fishtail (Macchapucchre) to the snowy hulk of Mt Dhaulagiri, the Annapurnas are a seriously impressive mountain range.

Active travelers have many trekking options. Australian Camp/Dhampus and Poon Hill are among the best places in Nepal to visit with family as the treks are easy but the views no less spectacular. If you have more time and stamina, the Annapurna Circuit, Annapurna Sanctuary, Mardi Himal and Lake Tilicho treks are some other options.

Planning tip: If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Nepal for a 10-day visit, combine a couple of days each in Kathmandu and Pokhara with a short trek in the Annapurna Himalaya and maybe even a jungle safari in Chitwan. 

Struggling to choose a hiking trail? Here's our guide to Nepal's best route

Best for Buddhist temples and pilgrimage spots

Travelers with an interest in Buddhism won’t want to miss Lumbini , in far western Nepal, as it’s where the historical Buddha, Prince Siddhartha Gautam, was born. Lumbini is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and, as well as the modest attractions directly related to Buddha, such as the Maya Devi Temple where it’s believed he was born, the town contains temples and monasteries built by many Buddhist nations and organizations from around the world. There’s a small international airport in Lumbini, or it's a long drive from Kathmandu or Pokhara.

7. Chitwan National Park

Best place for wildlife safaris

Nepal isn’t all about the mountains. The jungle-filled plains of the Terai, the southern border area beside India, are home to an array of birds and animals, including the vulnerable one-horned rhinoceros (whose population has swelled in Chitwan over the last decade), Royal Bengal tigers, gharial and mugger crocodiles, and various kinds of deer and birds.

The Chitwan National Park is the most popular of the reserves and parks on the Terai as it’s easily accessible from both Kathmandu and Pokhara. From Sauraha town you can go on safari in the park, visit wildlife rehabilitation centers, and learn about the indigenous Tharu people of Chitwan.

Planning tip: Visit Chitwan in late January or early February, when locals clear the long elephant grass and the wildlife hiding within becomes more visible.

Best for tea fields and Mt Kanchenjunga views

Often overlooked by travelers because it’s a bit out-of-the-way in eastern Nepal, Ilam is the center of Nepal’s tea-production industry. Despite bordering tea capital Darjeeling in India, Ilam is less of a household name in the tea world, but it shouldn’t be. Travelers can tour the tea fields and admire the views of Mt Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world, which sits on the Nepal–India border north of Ilam. Trekking routes in this part of Nepal are similarly lesser-known, but there are plenty of options, including the rugged and challenging Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek.

This article was first published Jan 9, 2022 and updated May 22, 2024.

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Pashupatinath temple.

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Full Day Sightseeing in Kathmandu

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

Mount Annapurna

Chitwan National Park

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Trisuli River

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Davis Falls

Sagarmatha National Park

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Maya devi temple.

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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

Royal Thai Monastery

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Myanmar Golden Temple

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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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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nepal

Written by Lana Law Updated Mar 22, 2022

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

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

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

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

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

1. Kathmandu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Nagpokhari, Naxal, Kathmandu, Nepal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More on Nepal

Complete Guide to Kathmandu

Top Things to Do in Kathmandu

Top Things to Do in Pokhara

Sacred Sites

Amazing Festivals

Top National Parks

Must-Try Food

Annapurna Circuit

Manaslu Circuit

Himalaya Trail

Facts About Mt. Everest

Trek to Everest Base Camp

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Kathmandu Airport Guide

Top Destinations in Nepal

One Week in Nepal

Tipping Guide

Getting Around

Top Things to Do in Nepal

The Top 20 Things to Do in Nepal

 Kriangkrai Thitimakorn / Getty Images

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

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

Climb a Mountain That’s not Everest

 saimai saelim / Getty Images

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

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

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

Ride the Manakamana Cable Car

 rweisswald / Getty Images

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

Learn about Nepali Religious Architecture at the Patan Museum

Elen Turner

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

Shop for Locally-Made Handicrafts and Textiles

 Bertrand Linet / Getty Images

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

Splash Your Way Down a White-Water River

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

Paraglide Over Pokhara

 Elen Turner

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

Visit the Birthplace of the Buddha

 Rupad Bajracharya / Getty Images

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

Paddle a Colorful Boat on Phewa Lake

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

Spot Rhinos on Safari in Chitwan

Elen Turner 

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

Take a Teahouse Trek

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

Chill Out at the Garden of Dreams

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

Visit all Three Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley

 Didier Marti / Getty Images

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

Birdwatch at the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

 Wei Hao Ho / Getty Images

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

Travel to the Other Side of the Himalaya

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

Join Tibetan Pilgrims at One of Buddhism’s Holiest Sites

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

Celebrate a Traditional Hindu or Buddhist Festival

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

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

Find Kathmandu’s Colorful Street Art

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

Feast on Dal Bhat

Ben Pipe Photography / Getty Images

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

Sip on Ilam Tea

 Volker Häring / EyeEm / Getty Images

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

Visit Nepal's Holiest Hindu Temple, Pashupatinath

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

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10 Best Places to Visit in Nepal

By Fiona Fiorentino · Last updated on April 27, 2024

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

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Best things to do in Nepal

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 14.03.2023

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

1. Bhaktapur

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

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

Travel ideas 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 in Sauraha © adrenalinrnb/Shutterstock

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

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

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

Nepalese traditional dumpling momos © diy13/Shutterstock

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

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

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

Festival dance in Nepal © Jelena Yukka/Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

The Rough Guides to Nepal and related travel guides

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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

Swayambhunath, Kathmandu, Nepal © Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gorkha Palace, Nepal © Josephine Billeter/Shutterstock

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

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

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

Pokhara lake, Nepal © danm12/Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trekking in Nepal, Annapurna © Shutterstock

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

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

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

Bengal tiger © Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Patan:

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

Find more accommodation options to stay in Patan

Patan Durbur Square © Shutterstock

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

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

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

Where to stay in Bandipur:

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

Find more accommodation options to stay in Bandipur

Bandipur Bazaar, Nepal © Shutterstock

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

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

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

Panauti, Nepal © Shutterstock

Ready for a trip to Nepal ? Check out the snapshot The Rough Guide to Nepal .

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Nepal without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

We may earn commission from some of the external websites linked in this article, but this does not influence our editorial standards - we only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Top image © Jelena Yukka/Shutterstock

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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.

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!
• Want a tailor-made trip to Nepal? Get a free quote here !
• Always use a VPN when traveling. I use ExpressVPN and I love it. Here’s why use a VPN when traveling .

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25 Best Places to Visit & Things to Do in Nepal

 last updated: 16 may, 2023 by nidhi singh.

Lonely Planet’s writer once described Nepal as a place where “there is always another adventure,” and this statement holds true. Nepal offers a plethora of opportunities, not only for adventure enthusiasts but for all travelers, from pilgrims to sightseers. It is home to some of the highest mountains in the world, including the tallest peak, Mount Everest. The country’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its art, music, dance, festivals, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including ancient temples, palaces, and monuments. Moreover, the Hindu and Buddhist temples and shrines located throughout the country entice travelers to visit Nepal repeatedly.

This bustling tourist destination can push your limits, surprise you, and make you fall in love with it on several occasions. Although experiencing the best of Nepal may require multiple trips, it is possible to explore the country’s diverse hues in a single visit with proper planning. To make your trip memorable, we have compiled a list of the top 25 places to visit and things to do in this ethereal country.

List of the Best 25 Tourist Places to Visit in Nepal with their Distances from Kathmandu (Tribhuvan International Airport)

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Around manaslu trek, must visit places in nepal.

Photo: https://goo.gl/8YcZlE

Situated beside the scenic Lake Phewa, Pokhara is the perfect leisure destination in Nepal. Don’t mistake this place for being dull, with nothing to do other than admiring the view of the lake and surrounding areas or spending leisurely hours in your luxurious hotel. Pokhara is known as the ‘Gateway to Annapurna Circuit,’ and it offers unparalleled opportunities for paragliding, unlike any other destination. Despite this, it maintains its poise and tranquility, making it a travel destination in Nepal that you will never forget.

The River Seti, which flanks Pokhara, also provides adventure lovers with the opportunity to enjoy thrilling white water rafting. Additionally, there are numerous treks that start from this beautiful destination in Nepal. So, the bottom line is that Pokhara is a must-visit, and it would be a crime to miss out on this one-of-a-kind place.

Best Places to Visit Pokhara

• World Peace Pagoda
• Davis Falls
• Mahendra Cave
• Begnas Lake
• International Mountain Museum

Photo: https://goo.gl/60usX3

It goes without saying that every capital city in the world is touristy and has plenty to offer visitors, and the same goes for Kathmandu . This capital of Nepal offers a glimpse into the country’s different aspects, making travelers even more eager for exploration. Kathmandu is undoubtedly one of the top 10 tourist destinations in Nepal, and its nearby destination, Thamel, is considered an ideal base for adventure trekkers and those wanting to enjoy the view of the famous Mount Everest. Kathmandu is also the best place to buy all your trekking and mountain climbing gear.

Apart from that, the city is ideal for pilgrimage tours. It is home to the Hindu’s most revered temple, Pashupati Nath, and exquisite and sacred Buddhist shrines such as Boudhanath and Swayambhunath. Kathmandu is also the perfect place to try Nepali cuisine, witness traditional crafts, practice and learn yoga and meditation. Flying tours to Mount Everest are also conducted from here.

Best Places to Visit Kathmandu

• Swayambhunath Stupa
• Pashupatinath Temple
• Boudhanath Stupa
• Kathmandu Durbar Square
• Patan Durbar Square
• Thamel, Garden of Dreams
• Narayanhiti Palace Museum

Other Interesting Blog to Read

• Best Things to Do and Places to Visit in Kathmandu

Photo: https://goo.gl/4m9YxG

If you want the best views of the Himalayan Range from Nepal, Nagarkot is the perfect place for you. This hill station of Nepal is surreal and strategic, promising breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains not only from the viewpoints but also from the windows of your hotel room. Nagarkot is situated a short distance from Bhaktapur and on the outskirts of Kathmandu Valley, making it a picturesque destination that allows you to savor every mood of the Himalayas. The place is famous for its stunning sunrises and sunsets, and it can also pass as a honeymoon destination in Nepal with its dreamlike settings and views on offer.

Best Places to Visit in Nagarkot

• Nagarkot View Tower
• Changunarayan Temple
• Kailashnath Mahadev Statue
• Top Wildlife Safari Destinations in Asia

Photo: https://goo.gl/vbClRv

Bhaktapur boasts rich architecture and imposing Hindu temples, though many suffered demolition due to the tragic earthquake of 2015. One can still find enough temples and edifices to mesmerise with their exquisite architecture and art. The Bhaktapur Durbar Square is one of the best places to see the excellent architecture and carvings of the temple. Apart from temple hopping, a traveller would like the shopping experience here. Bhaktapur is known for souvenirs, pottery, puppets, masks and cultural handicrafts, which leave visitors spoilt for choice when it comes to shopping in Nepal.

Best Places to Visit in Bhaktapur

• Bhaktapur Durbar Square
• Nyatapola Temple
• Dattatreya Temple
• Taumadhi Square
• Pottery Square
• Bhaktapur Thim.

Sagarmatha National Park

Photo: https://goo.gl/gaAc9k

One of the main revenue earners for Nepal tourism, Sagarmatha National Park is as close as you can get to Mount Everest if not attempting a climb. Spread in an area of 1148 sq km, Sagarmatha is home to the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest (8848 m) and the other high peaks like Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Thamserku, Nuptse, Amadablam and Pumori. Sagarmatha is an ideal destination for trekking in Nepal and offers stunning views of Everest and the Himalayan Range. It is also home to unique flora and fauna and especially to the rare Snow Leopard species. It is the diversity in this national park that makes it one of the best places to visit in Nepal.

Top Places to Visit in & around

• Mount Everest Base Camp
• Tengboche Monastery
• Namche Bazaar
• Gokyo Lakes
• Khumjung Village
• Island Peak
• Holiday Destinations in The World Where You Can Travel Visa Free with Visa on Arrival

Patan (Lalitpur)

Photo: https://goo.gl/AvBAe9

One of the three royal cities of Nepal, Patan or Lalitpur or Yala is something to feast your eyes on. Patan is a famous tourist place in the country and is primarily known for its rich architecture, fantastic wood carvings, and an air of spirituality. It is believed that before the disastrous earthquake of 2015, Patan housed more than 1200 monuments, each unique in its way. However, there are still enough tourist attractions to relish. Most people prefer a day-trip from Kathmandu since it is in close proximity to the capital. However, it would be nice to stay two or more days to enjoy the beauty of its courtyards and squares at a leisurely pace.

Top Places to Visit

• Golden Temple
• Krishna Mandir
• Mahaboudha Temple
• The Patan Museum
• Ashok Stupa

Chitwan National Park

Photo: https://goo.gl/tv5RXX

This national park is said to be the best place for wildlife tours in Nepal. Spread over an area of 934 sq km, Chitwan is recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and that says it all. The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, and is believed to be a safe shelter for unique animals like the one-horned rhinoceros. Chitwan also houses 544 species of birds, and it would take at least two days to explore this national park.

For luxury travellers who are also interested in wildlife tours, there are a number of high-end resorts situated right at the edge of the park. Along with pampering you with all the state-of-the-art services, these hotels and resorts arrange excellent wildlife safaris for their guests. For backpackers, on the other hand, Sauraha is the place to find accommodation. This small village is replete with budget-friendly hotels that are ideal for anyone on a shoestring budget and wants to explore Chitwan National Park.

• Elephant Breeding Centre
• Tharu Village
• Bishazari Tal (20-Thousand Lakes)
• Gharial Breeding Centre
• Best Destinations in Nepal For Insanely Awesome Adventure Activities

Photo: https://goo.gl/KgoM4O

Whether you are a theist or not, Lumbini touches your soul in a very special way. Believed to be the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Lumbini is a pilgrimage destination in Nepal but it surely impresses even the atheist with its monastery and peaceful environ. This sacred place, even though it can be covered in one day, has so much to offer to those who are willing to spend a day or two to gradually explore its beauty. The main attraction here is the Maya Devi Temple, which is situated amidst a large park that comprises lakes and monasteries.

• Maya Devi Temple
• Sacred Garden
• Ashoka Pillar
• Lumbini Museum
• Vietnamese Temple
• Comprehensive Guide on Visa Travel Information

Photo: https://goo.gl/nz5B6X

Janakpur is a place that you would not want to miss in Nepal if you enjoy witnessing a blend of history, culture and religion. Believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama’s consort, Sita and also the destination where the two got married, Janakpur holds a lot of religious importance for Hindu devotees. Mostly Janakpur is seen as a Hindu pilgrimage destination but it is a perfect place to imbibe a rich Maithili culture and explore its rich art and its various forms.

Best Places to Visit

• Janaki Temple
• Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple
• Dhanushadham
• Mithila Art Gallery
• Ganga Sagar
• Top Budget Destinations for a Family Trip that Your Dad Can’t Say No To

Photo: https://goo.gl/MjegdD

Dharan is a beautiful city, which is located at the foothills of the Mahabharata Range. The city is divided into two parts with one area dotted with banana plants, bamboo-forested hills and rustic shacks, while the other side has countryside feel, with quiet streets lined with posh bungalows, neat pavements, and a country club with a golf course indeed making it one of the must visit during Nepal tour. The two areas are divided by a dusty and crowded market that has a lot to offer to a shopaholic. Dharan is also recognized as a Shaktipeetha, a place where one of the limbs of Sati, the consort of Lord Shiva fell. Thus, Dharan is also a Hindu pilgrimage along with a hotspot for nature lovers.

• Pindeshwor Temple
• Buda Subba Temple
• Dantakali Temple
• Namaste Waterfall
• Dharan Clock Tower
• Dharan Market
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Chandragiri

One of the best places to visit in Nepal , Chandragiri is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. This quaint little town is nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas and boasts of breathtaking natural beauty. The hilltop offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley, with the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas standing tall in the distance. The Chandragiri Cable Car takes you on a scenic ride up to the top of the hill, where you can explore the historic Chandragiri Fort and visit the Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple. The town is also known for its delicious local cuisine, friendly people, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or history buff, Chandragiri has something to offer everyone. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the beauty and charm of this hidden treasure in Nepal.

• Chandragiri Cable Car
• Chandragiri Fort
• Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple
• Thankot Park
• Kathmandu Valley View Point

Sarangkot is a beautiful village located in the western part of Nepal, just outside the city of Pokhara. The village is perched on a hilltop at an altitude of around 1,600 metres, offering stunning views of the Annapurna range and the surrounding landscape. It is a top tourist destination in Nepal for both domestic and international tourists, and for good reason. The village is renowned for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset views, which attract many visitors who are looking for a serene and peaceful environment to enjoy the natural beauty of Nepal. One of the main attractions of Sarangkot is the panoramic view of the Annapurna range. From the hilltop, you can see the peaks of Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri. The views are especially stunning during sunrise and sunset when the mountains turn a beautiful shade of pink and orange.

• Sarangkot Viewpoint
• Bindhyabasini Temple

Bardiya National Park

Bardiya National Park in Nepal is a truly magnificent place that embodies the beauty and diversity of nature. This park is a vast expanse of lush forests, grasslands, and wetlands that are home to a wide variety of exotic wildlife such as tigers, rhinoceroses, elephants, and over 250 species of birds. The park is situated in the Terai region of Nepal and is one of the largest and most unspoiled wilderness areas in the country. Visitors to Bardiya National Park can experience the tranquillity of nature, explore the rugged landscape, and witness the majesty of the wildlife in their natural habitat. The park’s stunning scenery, combined with its rich cultural heritage and unique biodiversity, make it one of the must-visit places for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

• Karnali Bridge
• Samsara Safari Camp
• Crocodile Breeding Centre

Langtang is a small yet beautiful region located in the north-central part of Nepal. It is a hidden gem that offers spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and charming villages. The Langtang Valley Trek is one of the most popular treks in Nepal and is a must-visit for any trekking enthusiast. The trek takes you through picturesque villages such as Langtang Village, Kyanjin Gompa, and Thulo Syabru, where you can experience the local culture and way of life. The region is also home to several endangered species of animals and birds, including the snow leopard and the Himalayan monal. The Langtang National Park, which covers the region, is also a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts. With its stunning natural beauty and unique cultural heritage, Langtang is undoubtedly one of the best places to explore for anyone seeking an adventure in Nepal.

• Langtang National Park
• Kyanjin Gompa
• Langtang Valley
• Gosaikunda Lake
• Tamang Heritage Trail

Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas lies the breathtaking region of Helambu in Nepal, a special part of Nepal Tourism. Known for its unparalleled beauty, Helambu offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of the Hyolmo people, who have inhabited the region for centuries. Surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks, the valley is a paradise for nature lovers, with picturesque trails leading to stunning waterfalls and forests teeming with wildlife. The region is also famous for its production of sweet and delicious apples, which are grown in abundance in the orchards that dot the landscape. Helambu is definitely one of the best destinations to visit in Nepal, offering visitors an unforgettable experience that will leave them with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

• Helambu Trek
• Melamchi Gaon
• Tarke Gyang
• Shivapuri National Park

Top Things to Do in Nepal

Trekking in annapurna and langtang region.

Photo: https://goo.gl/Axlc3M

It is no surprise that Nepal is called the trekkers’ paradise. This incredible country is home to some of the most exotic treks in the world, and thus it is difficult to miss such a wonderful opportunity that comes knocking at your door during your Nepal tour. Although one may be spoiled for choices and even confused sometimes as to which trek to pick, those who opt for trekking in the Annapurna or Langtang regions are in for a memorable experience.

Annapurna is one of the most popular trekking regions in Nepal, taking trekkers through valleys, dense forests, and semi-frozen waterfalls. One can expect to be mesmerized by the spectacular views of the lofty mountains and wide vistas. During the Annapurna Circuit, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Panorama trek is a must-try, as this particular trail is the most colorful part of the region and offers the best of trekking in Nepal. On the other hand, the lesser-known Langtang Region has all the wonders to surprise you. Throughout this trek, one can witness the superb natural beauty and hear the therapeutic gushing sound of the Langtang River.

Fishing on Lake Phewa

Photo: https://goo.gl/ZUrFFV

Nepal can easily be designated as the paradise for fishing and angling enthusiasts. The country is home to a large number of rivers and lakes that are teeming with fish. For one of the best fishing experiences in Nepal, Phewa Lake in the Pokhara valley is ideal. Covering an area of 4.4 sq. km, the lake is home to around 22 native species of fish, making it the perfect place for a satisfying fishing experience in Nepal. The best time to go fishing on Phewa Lake is during the months of October to December and February to April when the weather is usually pleasant, and the fish are more active.

• Plan A Short Vacation to These Destinations From India This Festive Season

Flight over the Everest

Photo: https://goo.gl/UYNalh

Now, this is an experience of a kind. Even if you are capable of trekking and have dreams of making it to the Advanced Base Camps of Everest, a flight tour is still an experience to try. Mountain flights offer eye-level views of the mountains by flying at an average height of 7,000 meters, making it quite an adventure. An hour-long flight, offered regularly in the morning, gives you a tour of Himalayan giants like Everest, Annapurna, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Ganesh Himal, Gauri Shankar, Lhotse, Nuptse, Langtang, Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, and Dhaulagiri. However, you should book your flight in advance, as these tours are popular among travelers and sell out quickly. And don’t forget to bring a camera and snap some amazing photos of the scenery.

• Expert Tips to Grab the Cheapest Airline Tickets

Visiting Boudhanath Stupa

Photo: https://goo.gl/Cr0TPZ

Witnessing Boudhanath, a major attraction of Nepal tourism, is undoubtedly one of the best things to do during a visit to the country. Considered to be Asia’s largest stupa, Boudhanath is one of the few sacred places in the world where Tibetan Buddhist culture is open and accessible. Evening is the ideal time to visit Boudhanath, when the place comes to life with thousands of butter lamps lighting up the stupa.

• Top Safe Destinations for Women Travellers to Have a Good Time

Boating in Narayani River

An early morning boat ride on the glistening Narayani River near Chitwan National Park is undeniably an ideal thing to do. It is believed that the boating experience on this whimsical river is as fascinating as river rafting. The rippling waters and rich fauna both in and around it make Narayani an unmissable experience. Those with a thing for birdwatching would enjoy sighting various birds like the river/red-wattled lapwing, Ruddy shelduck, Osprey, and Kingfishers. The thrill of boating here multiplies with the possibility of spotting gharial/alligators in its water.

• Complete Travel Guide to the Best International World Heritage Sites

Paragliding in Pokhara and Bandipur

Photo: https://goo.gl/YvBttp

A paragliding experience in Nepal is a must-try for adventure lovers. The two best places for paragliding in Nepal are Pokhara and Bandipur. You can choose to fly over the beautiful Pokhara or the Annapurna Mountain Range, or even opt for Sarangkot. Whether you prefer a free-flying foot launched aircraft or a non-motorized foot launched inflatable winded glider, there are options for everyone. You can also take a 10-day paragliding course to attempt this adventure activity on your own. The best time for paragliding in Pokhara and Bandipur is from September to November (autumn season) and from February to April (spring season). These months have stable weather conditions with clear skies, moderate temperatures, and low humidity, making it ideal for paragliding.

• Celebrate Christmas and New Year in Style with Famous Destinations to Travel

Biking in Godavari, Bungamati, Chapagaun and Shivapuri National Park

There are countless trails in Nepal, most of which are unpaved, but lead to some of the most gorgeous places in the country. Biking expeditions on these trails can offer an exhilarating experience. All you have to do is hire a bike and head out in any direction in Nepal, and you will certainly end up in some exotic place. However, many people choose to take their biking trip in the region of Godavari, Bungamati, Chapagaun, and one of the best national parks in Nepal, Shivapuri.

• World’s Strangest Places that Can Compel You to Pack Your Bag and Travel

View Mount Everest from Gokyo Lakes

Photo: https://goo.gl/D4usj2

These offbeat sets of six lakes are the world’s highest freshwater lake system, of which Thonak Lake is the largest. Undoubtedly one of the most appealing vantage points and treks in Nepal, the Gokyo Lakes are a perfect place to relish the unsurpassed view of the majestic Mt. Everest. If you are a trekker and have done a few treks, the Gokyo Lakes trek can be one of the best things to do in Nepal, especially if getting an unforgettable view of Everest is on your mind. The lakes are located in the Khumjung Village Development Committee of the Solukhumbu District in the Sagarmatha Zone in northeastern Nepal and are considered sacred by both Hindu and Buddhist devotees. Hundreds of Hindus take a holy bath in the water of these lakes during the Janai Purnima festival.

• Best Honeymoon Destinations around Asia

River Rafting and Bungee Jumping in Bhote Koshi River

Photo: https://goo.gl/NJ0jhZ

Bhote Koshi River in Nepal needs no introduction. Housing the third highest platform for Bungee Jumping in the world, this gorgeous river compels one to take up two adventure activities, namely river rafting and bungee jumping. The experience of river rafting in Bhote Koshi is undoubtedly exciting, the river has challenging rapids with big bounces making your rafting expedition quite a thing to remember. And when it comes to bungee, nothing can beat the feel of this place. The suspension bridge from which the bungee jumping activity is taken up is at a dizzying height of 160 m and one can very well imagine the feeling of the ‘great fall’ from here.

• Top Holiday Destinations in The World Where You Can Travel Visa Free with Visa on Arrival

Kayaking in Seti River

Photo: https://goo.gl/mqgbs7

Enhance your tour of Nepal with an hour and a half of adrenaline-rushing adventure by kayaking in the Seti River. Although kayaking can be enjoyed in both Upper and Lower Seti River, the upper side of the river is noteworthy. With spectacular views of the Annapurna mountains, crystal-clear water, and a beautiful gorge adorned with a suspension bridge and prayer flags, the Upper Seti River is a must-visit for kayaking in Nepal. Adventure lovers have the opportunity to face Grade III and IV rapids while relishing the exotic views. The best times to enjoy kayaking in this river are from September to November and from March to May.

• Best Travel Camera for Beginners Photographers to Satiate Your Hunger of Clicking Photos

Nepal truly is a paradise for travelers, so if you haven’t yet decided to visit this little Himalayan country, it is time to plan a trip. Need we say that a lot of experience is waiting for you there. You can always give us, Tour My India a shout for planning the perfect trip for you and that too in the budget of your choice. Just give us a call at +91-9212777223/24 or drop your queries at [email protected]. Our promise is to provide the best Nepal travel packages and the experience you have dreamt of.

Other Important Nepal Tourism Links

• Kathmandu Travel Guide
• Pokhara Travel Guide
• Lumbini Travel Guide
• Kapan Monastery Travel Guide
• Nagarkot Travel Guide

Quick Answers to Some Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time for holiday vacation in nepal.

The best time to have holidays in Nepal is between October and December.

What are the top must visit tourist attractions in Nepal?

Some of the top tourist places in Nepal are Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Chitwan National Park, Pokhara, Lumbini, Langtang National Park, etc.

How to get a tourist visa for Nepal?

If you are planning to visit Nepal as a tourist, you will need to obtain a tourist visa. Here are the steps to obtain a tourist visa for Nepal:

1- Fill Out the Visa Application Form Online: You can fill out the visa application form online by visiting the official website of the Department of Immigration of Nepal.

2- Submit the Required Documents: Once you have filled out the visa application form, you will need to submit the following documents:

• A valid passport with at least six months of validity and two blank pages
• A passport-sized photograph
• Proof of your travel itinerary and flight details
• Proof of hotel reservations or accommodation arrangements
• A copy of your travel insurance policy

3- Pay the Visa Fee: You can pay the visa fee online using a credit or debit card or at the Nepalese embassy or consulate in your country.

4- Wait for Visa Approval: After submitting your visa application and required documents, you will need to wait for visa approval. You can check the status of your visa application online.

5- Collect Your Visa: Once your visa application is approved, you can collect your visa from the Nepalese embassy or consulate in your country or on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

Please note that the visa requirements and procedures may vary depending on your nationality, so it’s best to check with your nearest Nepalese embassy or consulate for the latest information.

How is the weather in Nepal?

Nepal has a diverse climate due to its varying topography, which ranges from lowland tropical regions to high altitude mountains. Generally, Nepal experiences four seasons: spring (March to May), summer (June to August), autumn (September to November), and winter (December to February). The best time to visit Nepal for trekking and mountain climbing is during the spring and autumn seasons. However, if you prefer to avoid the crowds, winter is a good time to visit Nepal.

What are the popular adventure activities to do in Nepal?

Some of the popular adventure activities to do in Nepal are trekking, mountaineering, rafting, bungee jumping, paragliding, mountain biking, jungle safari, etc.

What are the best places to visit for trekking in Nepal?

Some of the best places to visit for trekking in Nepal are Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, Langtang Trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek, Upper Mustang Trek, etc.

Which are the must visit temples in Nepal?

Some of the must-visit temples in Nepal are Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa, Changu Narayan Temple, Muktinath Temple, Manakamana Temple and Janaki Temple.

What are the top wildlife places to visit in Nepal?

The top wildlife places to visit in Nepal are Chitwan National Park, Bardiya National Park, Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Sagarmatha National Park, Annapurna Conservation Area, Makalu Barun National Park and Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve.

How many days are required to explore the best of Nepal Tourism?

A minimum of 10-14 days are required to explore the best of Nepal Tourism.

How are the accommodation facilities for tourists in Nepal?

Nepal has a wide range of accommodation facilities for tourists, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels to luxury resorts and hotels. Some popular types of accommodations in Nepal are Guesthouses and Hostels, Tea Houses, Hotels, Resorts, etc.

Published: 04 May, 2023 By Nidhi Singh

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About the author

Nidhi Singh

From the Lake District, Nainital, Nidhi Singh is a travel writer whose love for mountains can be seen in her write ups. Talk about solo travelling, indulging in adventure activities, binging on good food, planning budget trips or the Aurora Borealis and you will get all her attention. It is the wanderlust that keeps her going and if at all she could get one wish granted she would love to live a life less ordinary. Follow her on Twitter , Facebook & Instagram .

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The 12 BEST Places to Visit in Kathmandu, Nepal [2024]

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

There are so many amazing places to visit in Kathmandu, and after multiple trips to Nepal’s fascinating capital, I’ve put together this epic list to help you plan your travels!

Kathmandu, the remarkable capital of Nepal, has a rich history dating back to the 12th century.

It’s a hectic, busy and loud city, and there’s a good chance you will either fall in love with Kathmandu, or you’ll just want to escape to the Garden of Dreams.

With so many incredible tourist places in Kathmandu you could never be bored here, and when you travel to Nepal you should ensure you spend at least a few days here.

Table of Contents

1) Boudhanath Stupa

2) durbar square, 3) swayambhunath, souvenirs to check out in thamel, best restaurants on freak street, 6) asan tole, 7) pashupatinath, 8) garden of dreams, 9) kopan monastery, 10) kumari bahal, 11) bhojan griha, 12) chabahil stupa, nepali ghar hotel, crowne soaltee plaza, kathmandu guest house, traditional comfort boutique hotel, the best places to visit in kathmandu.

Kathmandu boosts everything from ancient Buddhist and Hindu temples to spice markets bound to have you sneezing or buying exotic products by the kilo.

Kathmandu might seem ‘crazy’ at first glance, but behind the curtain peace can be found by visiting Swayambhunath ‘Monkey’ Temple or Kopan Monastery where you are bound to find a little piece of Nirvana.

If food is your thing, after trying momos or garlic soup (which there are endless supplies of), there’s a pretty good chance you’ll be left salivating for more.

Kathmandu is crazy busy all year round so I have put together this article to help find the best places to visit in Kathmandu .

”My best tip for exploring Kathmandu is to start from the middle and work your way out”.

Love hiking? Check out our brand new, complete guide to  trekking in Nepal!

Situated 7 kilometres from the centre of Thamel, Boudhnath (or Boudha) is possibly the top of the list of the most stunning tourist places in Kathmandu.

Boudha is one of the largest stupas in Asia (a Stupa is a place of worship where Buddhist generally visit for worship).

Boudha is seriously impressive and can be seen from kilometres away, but when you are up close joining the thousands of pilgrims and tourists; it’s truly an amazing site to see.

Boudha was said to be built around 600AD, around the same time the Tibetan King decided to convert to Buddhism, which makes Boudha a very sacred place for Buddhists.

Amazingly, Boudha survived the horrendous 2015 earthquake with very little damage.

Boudha can get very busy, and a few tips from an insider informed me that the best time to visit is just on dark when locals come out to light butter lamps and burn incense.

When thinking about what to see in Kathmandu, don’t miss here!

Slightly north of Boudhanath is Ka-Nying Sheldrup Ling Gompa, which is also Tibetan in nature and like Boudhanath is white. Ka-Nying Sheldrup Ling Gompa is a place for learning Tibetan Buddhism.

• Address: Buddha Stupa, Boudhanath Sadak
• Opening hours: 24h/7
• Price: 400 rupees

South of Thamel lays Durbar Square, which unfortunately was severely damaged in the 2015 earthquake.

The Durbar Square of Kathmandu is listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site, and sometimes is confused with the village of Bhaktupur.

Durbar Square is collection of temples, stupas and the odd Sadhu or two. Durbar Square is quite easily accessed from Thamel, some 700 metres away, and once you are there you can explore some of the larger temples or just sit back and watch people feed pigeons.

It can be quite overwhelming with all of the different structures, so to help you out these are a few sites to check out in Durbar Square:

Seto (White) Bhairab – a large carving of a strange looking creature said to be made in 1794 which is popular among pilgrims during the Indra Jatra festival in September.

Jagannath Temple – One of the oldest structures in Durbar Square with strange, erotic carvings situated on the struts of the roof with 3 doors that appear to gain you access to the temple with only one that opens.

Taleju Temple – is described as the most magnificent temple in Durbar but is not easily accessed by Hindus or tourists. Taleju is 35 metres high which holds 12 smaller temples inside surrounded by 4 gates.

Indrapur Temple – No one really knows which God this temple was built for. Some say it’s for Shiva while others say it’s for Vishnu which to this day we just don’t know.

Mahendreshwar Temple – Topped with a golden umbrella, this temple is dedicated to the God Shiva. Mahendreshwar Temple is constantly buzzing with pilgrims despite its strange appearance.

If you wish to explore more then book this full-day tour , where you will have an opportunity to visit three Durbar Squares in Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur!

Durbar Square is considered one of the most well known Kathmandu attractions and as such, is completely unmissable!

• Price: 1,000 rupees

Perched above the city of Kathmandu is one of its most spectacular stupas, known to most as  Monkey Temple.

Swayambhunath is a listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and rightly so, as its a gorgeous historical site, and provides some of the best accessible views of Kathmandu with basically 360 degree views.

To me, Swayambhunath given its location, is one of the best places to visit in Kathmandu. It’s truly a Kathmandu must see.

The Swayambhunath stupa is decorated with prayer flags that are placed amongst an array of temples, stupas and statues.

It makes everything so close in proximity and when you add people it can get quite packed, but don’t let that put you off your visit.

The best time to visit Swayambhunath is early morning around 730am, when the skies are calm and there are drastically less people at the stupa.

Walking around Swayambhunath is best done in accordance to local custom by walking around in a clockwise direction (kora); this also stops you from running into people coming the other way.

Swayambhunath, like Boudhanath, can be slightly confusing as there is so much happening. so here’s a few quick tips to guide you to the right spots:

Great Thunderbolt – The thunderbolt of Dorje is a gigantic brass made thunderbolt which is a symbol of enlightenment. This can be found at the eastern stairway.

Eastern Stairway – If you are feeling fit, why not take the stairs? The eastern stairway was constructed in the 17 th century which leads directly to the great thunderbolt and the stupa itself. But be careful when ascending or descending these stairs as macaques will try to bite you or steal your food.

Western Stupa – From the main entrance take a left and meander the stone cobbled path until you come across a Gompa perched overlooking the mountains surrounding Kathmandu.

Buddha Amideva Park – One of the lesser visited places at Swayambhunath is the Buddha Amideva Park where 3 enormous statues made from gold are erected dedicated to Guru Rinpoche.

While you’re here it might be worth visiting the Natural History Museum which is a rather strange attempt at a museum you would see in Trafalgar Square.

Entrance to the museum is 50 rupees, and apparently 50 rupees for your camera.

Book this full-day private tour which takes you to four of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu Valley, among which Swayambhunath is included.

• Address: atop a hill in the Kathmandu Valley
• Price: 200 rupees

Thamel is Kathmandu’s tourist hotspot, complete with international restaurants, souvenir shops, hiking stores and street vendors selling delicious cuisines.

Thamel is probably the most popular of all Kathmandu tourist attractions so be prepared for street vendors trying to sell you flutes and a whole lot of exotic souvenirs.

Thamel central is the ultimate place to chill out in the city, and is usually the top thing people from abroad are keen on when thinking of what to see in Kathmandu.

Thamel Marg – Thamel Marg is the main street in the suburb and it’s pretty cool to explore with draping prayer flags strung from building to building while the sound of singing bowls buzz throughout the air mixed with a hint of incense (or the wafting smell of momo’s). Lots of the shops in Thamel Marg are the same and prices of souvenirs will be the same from shop to shop.

Mandala Street –  This super chilled out street feels as if you are in the back streets of Melbourne complete with fairy lights, book stores and cafes. For a great coffee, head upstairs to Himalayan Java Coffee, order a Honey Latte where you can sit above Mandala Street and watch the world go by.

Pashminas – a pashmina is a scarf made from goat hair which usually comes from the higher Himalaya. The higher the percentage of goat hair the more expensive the pashmina will be. Expect to pay about $50 USD but do haggle for a better price as haggling is acceptable in Kathmandu.

Singing bowls – are a type of bell generally made from copper and tin which when tapped softly, a small wooden stick is used to vibrate the sound to create a soothing low frequency sound. If you buy a singing bowl, make sure you go for the handmade ones not the machine made bowls as handmade bowls create a higher quality sound.

Prayer Flags – When buying prayer flags, make sure you buy flags that will breakdown after a period of time because the last thing you want is a mess of flags covering the landscape. You will be able to buy prayer flags in almost every shop you go to.

5) Freak Street

Freak Street (today known as Jochne Marg)  was the Thamel of the 1960s and 1960s. with awesome restaurants, strange characters and those seeking enlightenment on visiting Nepal or those who live within the country.

With Kathmandu so rapidly growing and Thamel becoming the new tourist hotspot, Freak Street isn’t quite as it used to be, but don’t let that put you off going; it’s still worth a visit!

It plays an important part of the Kathmandu sightseeing experience!

Kumari Restaurant – somewhat remaining relevant to its older days, Kumari Restaurant is cheap and provides an assortment of local and international cuisines.

Snowman – one of the more strange places to relax is Snowman Restaurant. Grab a cake and coffee and be immersed into what Freak Street used to be like.

This is the place to go to get your serving of fresh fruit and vegetables. Asan Tole is a bit like an outside supermarket with everything from exotic spices, marigolds, and yak off-cuts to bottles of homebrew (Rakshi) by the litre.

Asan Tole is so popular for growers and sellers that produce from the far reaches of the Kathmandu Valley is bought in on a daily basis.

Roaming around Asan Tole is one of the best things to do in Kathmandu.

Surrounding Asan Tole are a series of temples such as the Annapurna Temple and the Krishna Temple,  which are both quite unique in detail and positioning with the Krishna Temple sandwiched between two large buildings.

The Krishna Temple is nicely decorated with exotic wood carvings while the Annapurna Temple is dedicated to ‘abundance’, hence the reason why the Asan Tole markets are held underneath its entrance.

Prolong your travel and see the rest of the country – read more in our Nepal Travel Guide !

Perched on the banks of the holy Bagmati River, Pashupatinath is highly sacred Hindu temple where you can see the holy men known as Sadhus creating crazy poses for the camera and eye opening cremations along the river Bagmati.

Pashupatinath, although quite expensive to enter, is one of the best places to visit near Kathmandu; the experiences possible are truly amazing.

Start your adventure by visiting Pashupatinath Temple, which is the largest structure in the area painted gold.

You cannot enter unless you are a Hindu, but from just walking around the grounds, you are able to grab an insight into what actually happens within the temple.

The cremation Ghats located along the river Bagmati are bound to move you in some way or form, so be prepared to see confronting scenes.

The ceremony itself can be witnessed by anyone but please be respectful and do not take film or footage as this is a very distressing time for families in attendance.

Bachhareschwari Temple – this 6th century constructed temple is complete with strange decorations such as skeletons and erotic figures which are connected to the Maha Shivarati Festival (celebrating Shiva’s birthday).

Ram Temple – a great place to visit during the Maha Shivarati Festival where Sadhus gather in celebration meaning you have a chance to capture some amazing portraits or have the opportunity to learn about why the Sadhus are so holy.

Gorakhnath Temple – This temple is perched above Mrigasthali Deer Park and can be quite hard to find but is worth the visit as the temple bathed in red and white which is quite different from other temples in Pashupatinath.

• Address: Pashupati Nath Road 44621
• Opening hours: every day from 4 AM – 12 PM & 5 PM – 9 PM

Defined as ‘neo-classical’, the Garden of Dreams is a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu, located south of Thamel along Tridevi Marg.

The Garden of Dreams was created in the early 1920’s as a way for locals and tourists to come relax and rejuvenate the body and soul.

It is quite a contrast to what is outside of the gates as green grass, ponds filled with lilies and lush trees which all come together to create a mini botanical gardens in the middle of Kathmandu.

It’s a bit strange seeing a European inspired garden in Nepal, but having this little piece of paradise in one of the busiest cities in Asia really helps take your mind of all the crazy things going on outside of the complex.

It’s worth adding to the list of awesome places to visit in Kathmandu.

• Address: Tridevi Sadak
• Opening hours: every day from 9 AM – 10 PM

One of the lesser visited monasteries, this is quite the hidden gem. Kopan Monastery sits above the city of Kathmandu providing stunning 180 degree views.

Kopan is a place for Tibetan Buddhism where pilgrims come to visit, along with tourists seeking relaxation and meditation, and in the last few years has become increasingly popular due to the stunning architecture.

This makes Kopan Monastery one of the most unique places to visit near Kathmandu.

Currently, Kopan Monastery hosts 360 students, teachers, monks and lamas all to which to learn Tibetan Buddhism.

• Address: near Boudhanath, on the outskirts of Kathmandu
• Opening hours: every day from 9 AM – 11:30 AM & 1 PM – 4:30 PM
• Price: Free of charge

The Kumari Devi is a living goddess and is the most important deity to the people of Kathmandu.

It is often very difficult to capture a glimpse of this young girl unless you are attending the Indra Jatra Festival in September, however the Kumari Bahal (house of the Kumari) can be seen by visiting Durbar Square.

Why would you want to see the house of the Kumari? The building its self is quite architecturally spectacular, with a three story courtyard, to which the Kumari can be seen wandering around.

Please note that you are not allowed to take photos or film of the girl herself as it is strictly prohibited.

Address: at the crossroad of Durbar and Basantapur squares

This is definitely one of the most unique buildings and dining experiences you can experience in Kathmandu.

Bhojan Griha is a 150 year old building built for past royals who resided in this now kind of scary building (from the inside), but Bhojan is so full of life with its amazing 5-course traditional Newari feast and it truly is amazing!

The service is almost faultless and the traditional dancing that happens while you are eating away at delicious vegetable thali with a side of Raksi (home brew).

What makes this place even more awesome is that they are completely sustainable by not using plastics, straws or bottles, making you order by the glass as Bhojan Griha buys everything in bulk while the food is 100% organic.

This place is awesome for a night out!

Heading northeast out of Kathmandu (from Thamel) you will come across Chabahil Stupa which is a smaller version of Bodhnath and Swayambhunath, which unfortunately was damaged in the 2015 earthquake to now has been restored back to its original ways.

Chabahil Stupa is not as busy as the bigger stupas leaving you with more room to explore without bumping into someone.

That’s it for my guide on the best places to visit in Kathmandu, Nepal. Have you been? Found the list useful? Leave a comment below and let me know!

Where To Stay In Kathmandu

Now that you’ve figured out the best places to visit in Kathmandu, it’s time to sort out where to stay in the city. There’s a few different options, and as an experienced traveller there these are my best tips.

Staying In Thamel

Thamel is the centre of everything in Kathmandu, and things have gotten a whole lot quieter here due to cars and trucks being blocked from entering these streets.

Thamel is a safe suburb to stay and is relatively clean. Thamel boasts an array of restaurants, shops and sites to visit.

Situated in the heart of Thamel, Nepali Ghar is a newly built hotel within walking distance to Durbar Square, Thamel and the Garden of Dreams.

The rooms are stunning, offering all the necessities for a comfortable stay in Kathmandu. Nepali Ghar even has its own gym and balcony to which you can sit back and enjoy a fine cup of masala tea.

Kathmandu’s finest hotel, situated a few kilometres out of the city centre of Thamel.

Soaltee provides a haven for relaxation amongst the hustle of Kathmandu where you can enjoy the use of a gym, fine dining, pool and massage.

Kathmandu Guest House is like a home away from home and it’s been proven to be one of the most popular places for celebrities since Nepal opened its borders to the rest of the world.

What makes KGH a success story is that it was severely affected by the 2015 earthquake, to which most of the structures became reduced to rubble, and since then KGH has bounced back to be a stunning place to stay (and is relatively cheap given its unique position in Thamel).

Staying In Dilli Bazaar

Situated only a few kilometres from Thamel, Dilli Bazaar is quite a good option to stay in Kathmandu, although it can be tricky getting to and from your hotel to Thamel and surrounds.

Some of the hotels are new and are not necessarily on Google maps or known to your taxi driver. However, Dilli Bazaar is nice if you want to escape the masses of tourists staying in Thamel.

Based on Newari architecture, Traditional Comfort is a stunningly established building only a few kilometres from the cities centre.

Everything from your room to dining at the restaurant or on the rooftop is faultless…the rooftop is awesome with nearly 360 degree views of Kathmandu where you can enjoy a sunrise or sunset.

[box] My last visit to Kathmandu was to attend the Himalayan Travel Mart as a delegate on behalf of NOMADasaurus. All thoughts, opinions and hours spent at stupas are, as always, my own.[/box]

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Calumn Hockey

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Wow, I didn’t know Kathmandu had so many hidden gems to explore! As a frequent traveler to Nepal, I’m excited to add some new destinations to my itinerary. Thanks for sharing this comprehensive list of the 12 best places to visit in Kathmandu!

One of my memorable event in Kathmandu was gorging on sizzling Choila with pickles, potatoes and Chiura in Basantpur. If you visit Kathmandu next time, I recommend this place for mouth watering local Nepali dishes.

Thanks for the post.

You have very well explain about Nepal. I got a lot of help from your blog thank you so much for sharing.You have done all things very well in own blog, I like that thing very much.Nepal is a beautiful country and known as the “Kingdom of Snow Mountains”. Buddhism, palace buildings, and rich and colorful natural resources constitute the local unique tourism resources.

Thank you for your comment. 🙂

Awesome Article!!! Perfectly written about the Kathmandu valley what it is all about. Hope to read more blog like it in future.

Thank you so much. Appreciate it. Calumn is a great writer.

Im going there in Nov and this is d most complete and inspiring guide i can ever have to start my breakfree journey. Thanks so much!

Hope you had a great trip Lena. Happy travels

Love to read your article.i am tour manager from local travel company from Nepal, called Three Diamond Adventure.Your article is more trust worthy and best example for my Clint before going those monuments.Thanks for sharing great post.

Hope you found a great tour company and had a great trip. All the best.

I have an outgoing nature. I love to travel and visit different new places. Though I was born in Kathmandu, I have not gone to many beautiful places that you have included in your article. Thank you so much for this informative article. I will recommend my friends too to visit your site once.

Nepal is a peaceful country. The capital of Nepal is Kathmandu. Kathmandu city includes various UNESCO World Heritage Site. You are surely going to love your vacation here. You can spend quality time with your loved one. It is the best destination to observe the Hinduism and Buddhism. If you are foody then you are going to love the city. The information flowed by the article about the places to visit and stay in Kathmandu is surely going to help people who want to visit Nepal. Thank you so much for the informative article.

Calumn Hockey,

Great post and guide

Nepal is a remarkable country with full of peace and environment. This is an amazing article where I saw most of the attractive places to visit. The description and guide of each place you had provided in your article are interesting to read, where it takes mind in reality through your article.

I am also planning to stay three nights in Kathmandu from 16th to 18th April, 2019. Any suggestion regarding my trip is always welcome. Thanks.

Amazing article and really loved the guides you provided the links in between really very helpful. Great list and very informative, I came across the article when I was doing research on the places to visit in Kathmandu. In fact, I am working with a hospitality company which provides affordable ticket booking and hotel stays. This article of yours helped me a lot in my research.

Thanks a lot.

Looking forward to more articles.

Going there in april next year with my 14 year young grand daughter Is the dream of my life Want to go there since I was 14 year old and read a book about NEPAL Now it finally will become true. ( I am 65 now )I barely can’t wait for the day we will leave for Kathmandu.We will stay on week in Kathmandu a few days in Pokhara and 4 days in Chitwan. Will let you know about our trip when we are back

Great one. Love to read about my birthplace. Love Nepal

Thank you. Calumn wrote a great article for us. We can not wait to visit one day. 🙂

Yep think I’m game enough for an adventure there now !

You should do it Julie. 🙂

Kathmandu is my dream place. Always want to go there and spend some day. All pictures looks amazing and your picture me want to go there. Thank you so much for sharing a wonderful list to visit the Kathmandu.

Thank you so much for reading. We hope you get there one day. All the best.

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

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

Top 36 Tourist Attractions In Nepal

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

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

Best Time to Visit Kathmandu: September to November

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

Activities to Enjoy: Sightseeing, Everest Mountain Flight, Shopping

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

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1. Kathmandu Durbar Square

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

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

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

2. Boudhanath Stupa

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

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

Timings: Open 24 hours

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3. Pashupatinath Temple

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

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

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

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

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: 24 Hours

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

Best Time to Visit Pokhara: September to November

Distance from Kathmandu to Pokhara: Approx. 200.9 km

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

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

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

1. Phewa Lake

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

Timings: Open 24 Hours

Location: South of Pokhara Valley

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2. Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave

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

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

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

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

3. Pokhara Shanti Stupa

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

Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

Location: Lumbini Sanskritik 32914, Nepal

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4. Davis Falls

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

Timings: 5:00 am to 7:00 pm

Location: Sital path, Pokhara 33700, Nepal

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

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

Distance from Kathmandu to Lumbini: Approx. 258.9 km

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

Activities to Enjoy: Sightseeing, Meditation

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

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1. Maya Devi Temple

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

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

Timings: 06:00 am to 06:00 pm

2. Ashoka Pillar

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

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3. World Peace Pagoda

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

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

4. Lumbini Museum

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

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

Timings: Closed on Tuesdays

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Other Popular Tourist Places In Nepal

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

1. Nagarkot

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

Best Time to Visit Nagarkot: October to April

Distance from Kathmandu to Nagarkot: Approx. 27.8 km

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

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

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2. Bhaktapur

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

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

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

Distance from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur: Approx. 16.1 km

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

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

3. Chitwan National Park

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

Best Time to Visit: October to February

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

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

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

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4. Patan (Lalitpur)

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

Best Time to Visit Patan: November to January

Distance from Kathmandu to Patan: Approx. 10.6 km

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Dharan: Any time of the year

Distance between Kathmandu and Dharan: Approx. 380.7 km

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

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

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6. Janakpur

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

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

Distance between Kathmandu and Janakpur: Approx. 225 km

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

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

7. Biratnagar

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

Best Time to Visit Biratnagar: November to March

Distance from Kathmandu to Biratnagar: Approx. 376 km

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

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

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8. Chitlang

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

Best Time to Visit Chitlang: September to November

Distance from Kathmandu to Chitlang: Approx. 25 km

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

Tourist Attractions: Satdhara, Swochhanda Bhairab Temple, Bhedafaram

9. Parsa Wildlife Reserve

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

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

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

Activities to Enjoy: Canoeing, jungle safari

10. Rupa Tal Lake

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

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

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

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

Activities to Enjoy: Boating, photography

11. Sagarmatha National Park

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

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

Distance from Kathmandu: Approx. 137 km

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

Activities to Enjoy: Safari, birdwatching

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12. Phulchoki

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

Best Time to Visit: November to March

Distance from Kathmandu: Approx. 29 km

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

Activities to Enjoy: Trekking, mountain biking

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13. Mustang

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

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

Best time to visit : June to September

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

Distance from Kathmandu: 12995 KM

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

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

14. Panauti

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

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

Best time to visit : September to May and June

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

Distance from Kathmandu: 32 KM

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

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

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15. Bandipur

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

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

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

Best time to visit : October to March

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

Distance from Kathmandu: 104 KM

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

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

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16. Nuwakot

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

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

Best time to visit : September to March

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

Distance from Kathmandu: 48 KM

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

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

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

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

Best time to visit : April to June

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

Distance from Kathmandu: 89 KM

Activities to enjoy: Manaslu trekking, Visit the temples

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

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18. Chandragiri Hills

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

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

Best time to visit :  September

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

Distance from Kathmandu:  12.8 kms

Activities to enjoy: Stunning trails

Best Attractions: View from the top

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19. Janaki Temple

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

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

Best time to visit :  May, June

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

Distance from Kathmandu:  222.4 kms

Activities to enjoy: Enjoy the architecture of the temple

Best Attractions: Ganga Sagar, Shree Ram Janaki Biwaha Mandap

20. Mount Annapurna

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

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

Best time to visit :  September to November

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

Distance from Kathmandu: 174 km

Activities to enjoy: Hiking and Trekking

Best Attractions: Sanctuary, Tlicho Lake and Valle de Naar

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21. Langtang National Park

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

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

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

Distance from Kathmandu: 202 kms

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

Best Attractions: Landscapes, Campgrounds, lodges and tea stalls

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Best Time To Visit Nepal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Some popular places to enjoy the nightlife in Nepal are:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Some of the best places to visit in Pokhara are:

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

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

The most famous temples in Nepal are:

• Guhyeshwari Temple

Tulika Pandey

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

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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

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 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.

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

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

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!

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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.

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Travel Guide

20 Places to Visit Near Kathmandu

By Suraj Katwal

Updated On Jul 27, 2023

If you are looking for the top 20 best places to visit near Kathmandu or within the valley then we have compiled the list of sites for you. If you are researching your new destination i.e. Kathmandu then it is a city of temples as well as the capital city of Nepal .

A famous destination for travelers as it is a hub for many other trekking and travel destinations. However, there are also many other amazing places to explore to visit outside this city that offer a wide range of activities and attractions, etc. for travelers.

List of 20 Places to Visit Near Kathmandu

In this post, we are going to highlight the top 20 best spots to visit near Kathmandu with practical information and tips for making the most out of your tip. In this guide, you will also get tips to get the most out of the valley.

So if you’re planning a trip to Nepal and want to explore beyond the city, be sure to check out these amazing destinations.

1. Nagarkot

If you are searching for a place that is nearest to Kathmandu then Nagarkot is a place to look after. It is just 32 Kilometers away from Kathmandu and it is one of the common tourist destinations. Tourists usually visit Nagarkot for the spectacular sunrise and sunset view and also mountain views.

The best part of this place is that you can easily reach it within a three-hour drive and also if you are interested in one day trek then it is most recommended.

In the winter season, you can witness snowfall and we also can see huge crowds during snowfall.

If you are a regular visitor to my blog then you already know how much I love Pokhara City.

Pokhara, one of Nepal’s largest cities, is far away from the negative effects of urbanization. Pokhara is located around 200 kilometers to the west of Kathmandu city at an elevation of 827 meters above sea level.

It is a stunning city with numerous little and big lakes, as well as natural caverns. Mountains and lush woodlands encircle the city. Therefore, it is the ideal location to unwind after a long day.

Pokhara’s serene lakes and rustic atmosphere bring us nearer to the natural world. You can spend the daylight portion of your holiday by the lake before taking in Pokhara’s evening. The caves are accessible, and you can crawl out of them. It will be a thrilling adventure.

This city may have 100 reasons to explore but we have written 20 Reasons to Visit Pokhara, Nepal . You can enjoy the blog and let us know.

3. Bandipur

Bandipur is another nice place to spend quality time if you have plenty of time. You can visit a traditional Newari village and also get picturesque views of the Himalayas. Bandipur is a small village with the thick settlement of Newar.

It is said that 60-70% of the houses are classically made with wooden windows and slate roofs. Bandipur is 148 km away from Kathmandu and one can drive by private vehicle or tourist bus.

Lumbini is one of Nepal’s most tranquil tourist sites as it is within a prime location in the Terai region. It is the place where the Lord Buddha spent his formative years and is now known as Lumbini, a popular Buddhist pilgrimage site in Nepal.

In addition to being a holy site, Lumbini is also a very well-liked tourist destination and one of the most frequented locations in Nepal. Lord Buddha’s birthplace is Lumbini, located in Nepal’s Western Terai region.

It is a well-known Buddhist pilgrimage place throughout all of Asia and since 1997, UNESCO has designated it a World Heritage Site.

The nearest airport to Kathmandu is Gautam Buddha International Airport, which is approximately 30 minutes away from Lumbini, which is in the Lumbini Province’s Rupandehi District.

Also, read about the Top 10 Buddhist Pilgrimage Sites in Nepal .

5. Chitwan National Park

Out of 12 national parks , Chitwan National Park is the most popular and most visited national park in Nepal. Established in 1973, Chitwan national park is regarded as Nepal’s first national park.

Later, in 1984, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, which helped it become a renowned national park of Nepal. The Chitwan national park has been a major part of Nepal’s tourism ever since.

Located in the central Terai of Nepal, Chitwan national park is best known for the Chitwan jungle safari. Travelers from all around the world visit Chitwan national park to spy on one-horned rhinos and encounter fierce Bengal tigers.

6. Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a place you should not miss while visiting Nepal or if you are looking for places near Kathmandu then it is the destination that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It is also one of the most visited tourist spots which are culturally rich and it is a half-day trip from Kathmandu Valley.

It was once a palace of the Bhaktapur Kingdom and nowadays you can see the marvelous architecture in Nepal. A tour is worth it as you are going to explore temples, statues, and monuments of different eras.

7. Basantapur Durbar Square

Basantapur Durbar Square is one of the most visited and crowded places in Kathmandu and you can see people enjoying themselves by taking selfies, photos, etc. It is a historic palace located in the heart of Kathmandu. It was a palace during the Malla and Shah dynasties of Nepal and now it is listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nepal.

Overall, anyone interested in Nepalese history and culture should pay a visit to Basantapur Durbar Square. The palace complex is a testament to Nepal’s rich cultural heritage and provides a unique look into the country’s past.

8. Patan Durbar Square

Patan, located just outside of Kathmandu, is known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful architecture. Visitors can visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Patan Durbar Square or the local art galleries and craft shops.

9. Namo Buddha

The Buddhist holy site Namo Buddha, which is roughly an hour’s drive from Kathmandu, is renowned for its breathtaking Himalayan views. Visitors can attend yoga and meditation lessons while at the Namo Buddha Stupa.

10. Pashupatinath Temple

Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most sacred Hindu temples in Nepal . It is located on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Pashupatinath, who is considered to be a manifestation of Lord Shiva. The temple complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Nepal’s most popular tourist destinations.

Thousands of Hindu pilgrims from all over the world visit the temple every year. The Pashupatinath Temple is a magnificent structure with a gold-plated roof and four silver-plated doors.

11. Boudhanath Stupa

The Stupas of Nepal are probably the most famous, and arguably, the most impressive stupas in the world. Among these stupas, the Boudhanath stupa is considered one of the holiest Buddhist pilgrimage sites. The stupas are usually huge dome-shaped monuments that represent Buddhist shrines.

It is a major tourist attraction located west of Kathmandu, Nepal that dominates the skyline of picturesque Boudha; bordered by traditional Nepalese architecture with prayer flags dotting the open sky. It is easily accessible from the center of the city, being only 6 km away.

12. Narayanhiti Museum

Narayanhiti Palace Museum in Kathmandu is like a chamber of secrets that confines some untold history of the Kings of Nepal. 

Narayanhiti Museum, initially a royal residence of the Shah Kings of Nepal, is located in the heart of Kathmandu. It was established by the late King Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev in 1963.

He and his successors lived in Narayanhiti Royal Palace till 2008. King Gyanendra is the last King of Nepal, who was dethroned in 2008.

Now, you can visit this place and enjoy your day exploring the rooms named after different districts of Nepal.

Thamel is a bustling tourist hub in Kathmandu Nepal. It is well-known for its lively environment and you can see lots of shops, restaurants, and bars. It is a popular tourist and expat destination and is also regarded as one of the best places to experience Nepalese culture and hospitality.

One of the main draws of the Thamel area is shopping. Numerous shops sell a wide range of goods including handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, etc. which reflects the Nepalese culture and traditions.

14. Swayambhunath Temple

One of the sacred places among Buddhist pilgrims is the Swayambhunath temple, located in Kathmandu. Pilgrims of any religious background can visit Swayambhunath. It is one of the oldest religious places in Nepal and is cited as a UNESCO world heritage site.

Swayambhunath is also a popular holiday destination among locals who come to spend a peaceful time here. It is also a place for the spectacular view of Kathmandu valley i.e. you can get an almost 360-degree view of Kathmandu valley.

15. Garden of Dreams

Garden of Dreams Kathmandu is one of the beautiful places, suitable for relaxation inside Kathmandu Valley. It is an exquisite and artistic garden area. It has a peaceful and serene ambiance so visitors are attracted to the Garden of Dreams.

Mainly youths visit the Garden of Dreams. It is a popular hub for couples in Kathmandu. The garden has a unique construction and has various plants and flowers to observe.

You can visit the Garden of Dreams any time of the year but, you are highly recommended to visit it during spring and summer.

16. Godavari

The Godavari in Lalitpur is a place where you get to see couples all around every day. The Godavari is a charming place to enjoy with your loved one and the ambiance is just perfect.

The place is mainly famous for teenagers and it is located in the heart of Lalitpur. If you want to spend an unforgettable day with your loved ones we recommend you visit this place.

Moreover, you can enjoy the astonishing view of Langtang, Jugal, and Ganesh Himal and also visit make a plan to visit Godavari National Botanical Garden too.

17. Kathmandu Fun Park

Kathmandu fun park , a popular fun park located at Bhrikuti Mandap, is one of the oldest and most enthralling amusement parks in Kathmandu.

It is the place where we can relish our inner child and relive childhood. You are free to become a child once again here and reminisce about the good old days.

Playing fun games with family and friends always brings a smile to our faces. It helps reduce stress and anxiety, stay physically fit, and help in mental well-being. So, we should spend some of our valuable time playing games and being happy.

18. Chandragiri

Chandragiri Hills is one of the popular sites in Nepal to visit with your families and friends. It has grabbed the attention of several travelers all over the world due to its unmatched beauty.

On the lap of Chandragiri Hill resides a sacred temple of Lord Shiva at an altitude of 2551 meters. Chandragiri Hill is also one of the popular hill stations near the Kathmandu Valley, where you can enjoy the snowfall during winter.

Besides snowfall, several features of Chandragiri will enhance your traveling experience, such as the sacred temple of Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple.

19. Manakamana

Manakamana is a popular destination where people visit this place the popular temple known as Manakamana Temple offers prayers and seeks blessings. The temple is located in a scenic location and you can experience a unique cable car ride that offers stunning views of the surroundings.

20. Kalinchowk

Kalinchowk is another place nearby Kathmandu, it is suitable to visit this place with a group of friends and family during snowfall. You can also plan for a night stay in this place but be sure to book a hotel before your departure.

How to make the most of Kathmandu?

If you really want to make the most out of Kathmandu then here are some of the tips, you can follow. First, read this guide to know the list of things to do and things not to do in Nepal .

If possible, mark your calendar to visit Kathmandu around the festive season. You are going to love it as people gather to enjoy the festival and you will the vibe.

Other than that, here are a few things you can do to make the most out of Kathmandu Valley.

• Research and plan ahead: The most basic and important thing you can do before your trip is to fully understand the destinations you are traveling to. Kathmandu is the capital city and you can find almost every information about it. so fully research all the things including local places, local restaurants, local activities, must-see attractions, or things to do.
• Hire a local guide: There are lots of local places in Kathmandu, you don’t want to miss so hiring a local guide is the best thing you can do. You can pay a guide per hour or day and explore hidden gems, and places in Kathmandu that you might not find on your own.
• Try new things: While you step out of your country, you also have to get out of your comfort zone. so, get afraid to try new things, new activities, and experiences, etc. If you are interested to visit the outside valley then try out Paragliding , Trekking , etc.
• Be respectful of local customs and traditions: Every country has its own traditions and culture, and different places have different rules and cultures. Always respect the local people and local culture while traveling and exploring new places. Keep in mind that, people love simplicity so be careful with dressing, behavior, etc.
• Support local businesses: If you want to help to boost the economy of the country then you can always support and contribute to the local restaurants and purchase locally-made souvenirs. Also, you can stay at locally owned accommodations if possible. Support community works like helping to build community schools, places, etc.
• Take advantage of free activities: Kathmandu is a city of temples and monuments, often visiting these places is free of cost or you have to pay a small fee that supports the maintenance of that place. so, mainly take advantage of visiting natural areas within or near Kathmandu Valley. Often you can save time as well as money.

Book your tickets to Kathmandu soon!

Now, it’s time to explore great places in Kathmandu Valley and outside it, so it’s time to book your tickets. I wish you explore these listed places, it may not be possible to visit these places in one go but never mind there is always next time. You will never regret your decision by visiting Nepal, you are going to have a memorable journey of your lifetime.

1. What are the 3 most visited places around Kathmandu Valley?

The 3 most visited places around Kathmandu Valley are Boudhanatha Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Swayambhunath. Other than that you can visit Pashupatinath Temple, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, etc.

2. What are the good places for one night stay near Kathmandu?

Nagarkot is the go-to place for travelers for one night stay near Kathmandu. You can reach over there quickly. Other than that you can visit Shivapuri Resort, For Bungee, you can visit The Last Resort, etc.

3. What are the places to visit near Kathmandu for couples?

For couples who are looking further places beside Kathmandu Valley then Nagarkot, Chandragiri Hills, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Garden of Dreams, Dhap Dam , etc. are the places, you can explore.

4. What are the places to visit near Kathmandu for a night stay?

There are several places to visit near Kathmandu for a night stay, including Gokarna Forest Resort, Namo Buddha, The Last Resort, Thamel, Dhulikhel, Shivapuri Village Resort, Chitlang, etc.

5. What Is Patan Durbar Square Famous for?

Patan Durbar Square is a place full of Newari architectural design located in the city of Lalitpur. It is famous for ancient places, temples, and big & small shrines. Patan represents ancient structures, temples, shrines, statues, and idols.

We hope that this blog post will help you with all the information for planning your trip to Kathmandu Nepal. There are many places to visit in Kathmandu besides the listed ones, within Kathmandu, and near Kathmandu.

If you want to explore Kathmandu quickly then you can hire a local guide. You can roam around historical which are culturally rich.

If you love to visit a place that we recommend outside Kathmandu Valley then it’s Pokhara , a favorite and most beautiful destination for tourists.

At last, be respectful to local people, respect the local culture, and if possible buy local items also read our Getting Around Nepal guide to know more about Nepal.

Happy Travels!!!

Suraj Katwal

Suraj is a travel enthusiast who believes in finding solace in the heart of nature. He enjoys exploring new destinations, different culture, and encouraging people to travel.

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• 10 Places To Visit Near Kathmandu That’ll Help You Learn The Essence Of Nepal

23 Mar 2023

Kathmandu is and has been for many years the epicentre of Nepal’s beauty and cynosure of the animated arena where flocks of tourists from worldwide locations pay a call on. For those of you who are not hard core trekkers and running out of time to spend on trekking, activities have far more places to visit near Kathmandu .

From getting the grips with nature to grasping more about the various ethnicities, Kathmandu along with its nearby places serves as the perfect picturesque. The best part is that exploring them won’t be too hard on your pocket.

10 Places To Visit Near Kathmandu

This overview of the best places to visit near Kathmandu will show you where to find various natural attractions and peaceful invocations to shape your expedition really catchy and unforgettable.

1. Nagarkot 

Image Credit : Sherparinji for Wikipedia Commons

Nestled about 32 kilometres east of Kathmandu at an elevation of 2185m, Nagarkot is a place that provides you with the panoramic views of the mountains and perfect scenic beauty around them. With its immense purity and outstanding ambience, it spreads fresh vibes making you feel more energetic and zestful. It’s most famous Sunrise views over the giant mountains arrest the souls of all nature aficionados making it as one of the best places to visit near Kathmandu. It is the site of an ancient fort that had been built to monitor the external activities of the kingdoms. So if you have less time to go very far from Kathmandu, then Nagarkot would be the best option.

Things to Do in Nagarkot: Nature strolling; Sunrise view; Everest view. Ideal For: Families, Friends, Picnic. Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 days. Weather: Cold in winters and not too hot in summers. Temperature ranges from 3 – 25 degrees. Best Time to Visit: From October to April when you can see the clear views of the Himalayas. How to Reach: Public buses, taxis and cars are available. Distance from Kathmandu: 26.9 km via Araniko Highway.

Must Read: 10 Best Homestays In Kathmandu For A Budget-Friendly Stay Experience In This Ancient City!

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2. Bhaktapur 

Image Credit : Juan Antonio Segal for Wikipedia Commons

Within the confines of Kathmandu valley, at about 30-minute drive from Thamel, resides the awe-inspiring medieval city of Bhaktapur. It used to be the capital of Nepal during the Malla period until the second half of the 15th century. This city once remained famous for its magnificent craftwork, cultures and temples and still retains that identity. Bhaktapur still remains the main spot of attraction for all the archaeological enthusiasts as it is a home of unique architectural monuments and temples. Strolling along the streets of this magnanimous city reminds you of the ancient times of Nepal.

Things to Do in Bhaktapur: Nature strolling; Temple visits; Heritage monuments. Ideal For: Families, Friends, Archaeological geeks. Ideal Trip Duration: 2 days. Weather: Mild climate, cold in winters and not too hot in summers. Rainfall in summer. Temperature ranges between 2 – 27 degrees. Best Time to Visit: From October to April. How to Reach: Public buses, taxis and cars are available. Distance from Kathmandu: 15.8 km via Ringroad or Araniko Highway.

3. Chisapani 

Image Credit : Shadow Ayush for Wikipedia Commons

The best place for the adventure geeks as Chisapani offers you a perfect short trek enabling you to explore the magnificent flora and fauna along the way. The spectacular panoramas of mountains and luscious landscapes literally freeze your senses and take you to a new dreamland. This little Kathmandu trekking takes you to Shivapuri National Park. You can have a delicious lunch at Malkharka after a short trek through Shivapuri National Park with its subtropical forest once pass through the main water resource for Kathmandu. After a hike of 1.5 hours, you will reach Chisapani which is settled at an elevation of 2215 m. Chisapani indeed remains an ideal place to visit near Kathmandu, Nepal.

Things to Do in Chisapani: Trekking; Nature strolling; Himal Ranges. Ideal For: Adventure, Families, Friends. Ideal Trip Duration: 2 days. Weather: Cold in winters and not too hot in summers. Temperature ranges between 2 – 28 degrees. Best Time to Visit: From February to mid-June, September to November. How to Reach: Private cars, Hiace, Vans are available. Distance from Kathmandu: 20.5 km via Chisapani road.

Suggested Read: 6 Best Kathmandu Restaurants To Please Every Taste & Budget

4. Dhulikhel 

Image Credit: mohigan for Wikipedia Commons

Situated at an elevation of 1550m, Dhulikhel is one of the most beautiful places in Nepal. Those of you interested to explore Himalayan panoramas must visit this place once in a lifetime. Here you will get the opportunity to have the glimpses of Langtang, Gauri Shankar, and Numbur. This less crowded town offers you many unforgettable memories especially when you visit its temples.

Things to Do in Dhulikhel: Trekking; Nature strolling. Ideal For: Adventure, Families, Friends. Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 days. Weather: Cold in winters and not too hot in summers. Temperature ranges between 2 – 29 degrees. Best Time to Visit: From March to May, February to September. How to Reach: Taxis, Public buses and private cars are available. Distance from Kathmandu: 31.2 km via Araniko Highway.

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Home to the Tamang ethnic group, situated at about 2.073m above Sea level, Kakani is amongst the best places to visit near Kathmandu for families. It’s a perfect picturesque for a picnic or a family gathering. You will feel grateful on seeing the magnificent Dhaulagiri ranges, Ganesh Himal and Annapurna here.

The main attraction of this place is The Thai Memorable Park which commemorates the 113 victims of the Thai Airlines crash in 1992. Kakani would for sure leave wonderful memories on you and your kids as this peaceful park area offers a splendid aura. In winter, you will be overwhelmed by the spectacular views of the snow-covered mountains. You can get a chance to experience skiing after snowfall in winter. If you are seeking the perfect place for a couple’s selfie then it is one of the ideal places to visit near Kathmandu for couples.

Things to Do in Kakani: Skiing; Picnic; Sightseeing. Ideal For: Adventure enthusiasts, Families, Friends. Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day. Weather: Snowfall in winters and not too hot in summers. Temperature ranges between 0 – 26 degrees. Best Time to Visit: From October to May. How to Reach: Taxis, Private cars, Public buses are available. Distance from Kathmandu: 23.7 km via Trishuli Highways.

Suggested Read: Kathmandu Nightlife: 10 Places That Bring It To Life Every Night

6. Namo Buddha 

Image Credit: simpl3punk for Wikimedia Commons

The famous Buddhist pilgrim site, Namo Budha is located about 40 km from Kathmandu. Home to 250 young monks, Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery greets you in their morning and evening prayers. The monastery is open to the general public on Saturdays. Else, it can be visited on other days upon permission. Its unique architecture and peaceful ambience will for sure relax your weary souls. The monastery also runs a guest house for travellers which makes it the best place to visit near Kathmandu for a night stay.

Things to Do in Namo Buddha: Temple visits, sightseeing Ideal For: Worship, Families. Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day. Weather: Moderate climate, Temperature ranging between 15 – 25 degrees. Best Time to Visit: March and April, October. How to Reach: Private cars, Buses are available. Distance from Kathmandu: 42.3 km via Araniko Highway.

7. Lakuri Bhangang

Image Credit : Brabim Bhandari for Wikipedia Commons

Wondering to experience some thrilling adventure near Kathmandu and that too in a very short time? Don’t worry as Lakuri Bhangang, located at just 15 km from Kathmandu, has brought a perfect session of Paragliding for all the adventure chunks. Offering spectacular views of the mountain ranges around it, this beautiful hill station also offers trails for trekking purpose. With its serene beauty and natural abundance, Lakuri Bhangang has become one of the top places to visit near Kathmandu, Nepal. People often visit this magnificent land with families to have an actual taste of the picnics.

Things to Do in Lakuri Bhangang: Trekking; Paragliding; Picnic; Sightseeing. Ideal For: Adventure, Families, Friends. Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 days. Weather: Snowfall in winters and not too hot in summers. Temperature ranges between 0 – 25 degrees. Best Time to Visit: From October to May. How to Reach: Private cars, Vans are available. Distance from Kathmandu: 22 km.

Suggested Read: 10 Villas In Kathmandu For Travelers Who Want A Luxury Stay On A Shoestring Budget!

8. Kulekhani 

Image Credit : pawankawan for Pixabay

A perfect amalgamation of adventure as well as natural beauty, Kulekhani is the famous hydropower dam that proffers ultimate opportunities for boating and swimming in its lake-like environment. Its magnanimous serenity, enchanting rivers, luscious landscape, and incredible waterfalls have made it well worth and one of the best places to visit near Kathmandu. Numerous mini Budha stupas can be seen here on the way along with its world-famous monastery and a sacred cave. This is one of the best places to visit near Kathmandu for couples.

Things to Do in Kulekhani: Boating; Swimming; Nature strolling; Sightseeing. Ideal For: Adventure, Families, Friends. Ideal Trip Duration: 2 days. Weather: Cold in winters and not too hot in summers. Temperature ranges between 3 – 25 degrees. Best Time to Visit: From May to August. How to Reach: Public buses and cars are available. Distance from Kathmandu: 46.9 km.

Image Credit: yeriQ for Wikimedia Commons

Gorkha is said to be the birthplace of King Prithviraj Narayan Shah, the founder of Nepal. Gorkha Durbar is a beautiful old palace situated over the hill which is world-famous for its architecture. Inside this palace, two very attractive temples of Gorakhnath and Kali have been constructed. Gorkha is the most enjoyable historical place where you can relax and enjoy nature.

Things to Do in Gorkha: Nature strolling; Sightseeing. Ideal For: Archaeological geeks, Families, Friends. Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day. Weather: Too hot in summers, cool in winters. Temperature ranges between 23 – 40 degrees Celsius. Best Time to Visit: From January to April. How to Reach: Public buses, taxis and cars are available. Distance from Kathmandu: 77 km.

Suggested Read: 10 Places To Visit In Kathmandu To Explore The Art And Culture Of This Ancient City

10. Helambu

Image Credit : BusyBeaver-de for Wikimedia Commons

Nestled about 72 kilometres north-east of Kathamandu, Helambu is world-famous for its grandeur and pleasant environment. Amidst a rich and enchanting landscape, the number of Buddhist monasteries have been constructed which adds extra glamour to its beauty. It’s the best place for adrenaline chunks as they get an opportunity to trek on the trails. The starting point of the trek to Helambu is Sundarijal.

Things to Do in Helambu: Trekking; Nature strolling; Sightseeing. Ideal For: Adventure geeks, Families, Friends. Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 days. Weather: Snowfall in winters. Temperature ranges between 6-15 degrees in winters to 20-30 degrees Celsius in summers. Best Time to Visit: From March to June and September to December. How to Reach: Public buses, taxis and cars are available. Distance from Kathmandu: 72 km.

Further Read: 10 Best Hostels In Kathmandu That Offer Best Of Comfort & Hospitality

Gear up now and experience the collage of wonderful places near Kathmandu which will bring unforgettable memories in your life. You will for sure enjoy visiting these mesmerizing places near Kathmandu and that too in very less time and pocket-friendly manner. A Nepal holiday will definitely be worth worthwhile when you’ll cover most of these places!

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Cover Image Credit: Pixabay

Frequently Asked Questions About Places to Visit near Kathmandu

Is it safe to visit Kathmandu during COVID times?

Make sure that you follow all the mandatory guidelines mentioned by the government such as maintaining social distance, wearing masks, washing or sanitizing hands regularly, etc. for a safe travel experience. Get yourself tested at least 42 hours before your departure and do remember to carry your negative RT PCR report with you. Avoid visiting crowded places, social, and religious gatherings.

Where can I go outside in Kathmandu?

The following are the most popular places to visit near Kathmandu: 1. Nepalgunj - The famous gateway to Kailash Mansarovar 2. Janakpur - The kingdom of Mithila and a prominent religious site 3. Chitwan - Nepal's Wildlife, flora and fauna 4. Bhairahawa - The birthplace of the Lord Buddha.

How far is Nagarkot from Kathmandu?

Nagarkot is located at a distance of 32 kilometers from Kathmandu. Nestled on the northern side of the Kathmandu Valley, you can take a road journey to reach here. The place is famous for spectacular Himalayan views.

What is the famous food of Nepal?

Daal Bhat Tarkari is the most popular food in Nepal. Other famous dishes of Nepali cuisine are the following - Aato, Achaar, Chiura, Bara, Bhatmaas, Buffalo curd, Bhakka, Bagiya. From street food to star-rated restaurants, Nepal offers amazing recipes cooked with authentic flavours and local herbs.

Can we visit Namo Buddha on weekdays?

Namo Budha is open to the public on Saturdays. You may visit on normal days, however, you need to seek prior permissions to visit the place. Namo Buddha is a popular tourist attraction in Nepal and a prominent religious site for Buddhist pilgrims.

What tourist attractions does Kathmandu offer?

The following are the top tourist attractions in Kathmandu: 1. Boudhanath Stupa 2. Thamel 3. Swayambhunath Temple 4. Pashupatinath Temple 5. Chandragiri Hills 6. Kopan Monastery 7. Garden of Dreams

Can Indians visit Nepal without a passport?

Yes, you can visit Nepal without a passport, however, you need to present an Id proof which may be a Voter card, Aadhaar Card or even PAN Card. If you are traveling during Covid times then you will also require a negative RT PCR report which verifies that you are safe.

Can I use Indian rupee in Nepal?

Yes, Indian currency is valid in Nepal, however, the facility is available at an official exchange rate of 1.60 Nepalese rupees to 1 Indian rupee. Kindly note that Indian 500 and 1000 rupees notes are not acceptable in Nepal.

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Move Over Africa! 14 Must-Do Experiences in Chitwan, Nepal's Ultimate Safari Destination

A re you looking for a Nepal experience beyond trekking in the Himalayas? Chitwan (UNESCO World Heritage Site) is a popular destination where you can get up close and personal with some of the most exotic and endangered animals on the planet. 

Imagine going on a safari to see a Royal Bengal tiger, sloth bears, one-horned rhinos, wild elephants, and more in their natural habitat. Or take a canoe ride down the river (safely) while spotting crocodiles sunning themselves on the banks.

Located in south-central Nepal, the Chitwan district is a protected area, home to dense forests, wildlife, and unique cultural experiences that can’t be found anywhere else in the country. Although seeing wildlife may be the highlight, many beautiful places exist in and around Chitwan National Park;  these are some of our top things to do in Chitwan.

Overview of Chitwan

Chitwan National Park, initially a hunting reserve, was eventually founded in 1973 as Nepal’s first national park. “Chit” means heart, and “wan” means jungle, so the park’s name translates to “Heart of the Jungle.” 

The park covers 5 provinces and is located on an island wrapped by 4 rivers. 56 types of mammals live in the park, including rhinos, wild cows, and Bengal tigers.

The park is in south-central Nepal, with the  village of Sauraha being the most common gateway to the park at the northern boundary. 

Best Things To Do in Chitwan

As there are so many different places to visit in Chitwan, I will  categorize the following list into things to do in Chitwan National Park and what to do in the surrounding area. 

Things to Do in Chitwan National Park

Best tours in chitwan national park.

1 Night 2 Days Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour 2 Nights 3 Days Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour 3 Nights 4 Days Chitwan Safari Tour

Tips Before You Go to Chitwan National Park

• Don’t wear unnatural colors  like white, red, and yellow. This can cause the wildlife to become aggressive, like matadors with bulls.
• Leeches! Lots and lots of them.  This was the worst part of Chitwan, as you can’t even feel them sucking your blood until you find out and freak out a bit. This problem is especially severe during the rainy season, but during the shoulders seasons, they still persist.
• Please bring plenty of water and reapply sunscreen as it gets incredibly hot.
• To enter Chitwan National Park, a small canoe will take you across crocodile-infested waters. During high season, waiting for the short boat crossing can take quite some time.
• As with all natural habitat places, there is no guarantee of spotting anything cool. You have to be lucky.

Chitwan National Park Entrance Fee

The daily entrance into Chitwan National Park for foreigners costs 2000 NPR, while SAARC citizenship members only have to pay 1000 NPR. If you’re Nepali, the fee is a mere 150 NPR. Check here for the most up-to-date permit fee rate

Note: that if you’d like to explore the park for more than one day, you’ll need to pay the daily entrance fee each day of your stay.

1. Hike Through Animal Trails on a Jungle Safari Walk

The  safari walk is the way to go compared to the shared jeep option.  You hike off the main path through brush and animal trails, which means you can see wildlife that may not be seen otherwise. In addition, you get to experience the beauty of the park firsthand and learn about the local flora and fauna from your knowledgeable guide.

  Book Your Safari Walking Nature Tour Here

These walks start early in the morning and last anywhere from four hours to three to ten days, depending on how much time you have. You’ll always have at least two guides with you for protection.

Before you start, the guides will inform you how to act in case you encounter one of the five aggressive mammals. My guide said he had once come face-to-face 20 feet away from a tiger, and the tourists promptly wanted to end their safari hike after.

Tip! To maximize the chances of seeing animals,  stay quiet  during the walking safari.

2. Join a Jeep Safari Deep into the National Park

After walking, jeep safaris are the second-best way to see wild animals in Chitwan National Park. I say second, as you don’t interact much with the local guides or nature; you mostly sit on the jeep while it bumps down a path through the woods with 10 people.

The shared jeep safaris last anywhere from two hours, half day (4 hours) to a full day. I recommend selecting the 4-hour option so that you can get more inland. This way, your chance of seeing animals is higher.

It is important to remember that you should always stay in the jeep. The animals in the park are wild and can be dangerous.

  Book a Two Day Tour that Includes all the Highlights of Chitwan and Sauraha

3. See Croc’s Life Cycle at the Crocodile Breeding Center

If you sign up for the 4+ hour jeep tour, one of the stops will be at the crocodile breeding center. These critically endangered crocs are famous for being only fish-eaters and having bizarre-shaped noses.

In the conservation area, hundreds of Gharial crocodiles are sorted by age, from hatchlings to juveniles to crazy giant adults. The oldest I’d seen was born in 1973.

The entrance fee is not included in the price of your jeep tour, but it was minimal, like 200 NPR…or you can ask to use the bathroom and take a quick peek.

4. Canoe Ride Amongst Crocodiles

The final transportation option to discovering Chitwan National Park is by canoeing a portion of the Rapti river by dugout canoe.

Usually starting early in the morning as the first activity, it’s the perfect peaceful place to view animals, birds, and crocodiles as the sun rises above the horizon.

Canoe tour options range from 1-3 hours.

5. Bird Watching in the Jungle

Chitwan National Park is home to over 500 different species of birds. The bird-watching tour will take you on a walk through the jungle, stopping along the river or one of the many lakes in the park.

You can choose between shorter 4-hour options or longer 8-hour trips. If you’re a huge aviary fan, nothing is stopping you from going on a multi-day tour guided hike.

6. Ride or Wash an Elephant

Although not the most ethical, you can choose an elephant safari tour that will take you through the community buffer zone, which borders the national park. On these tours , you can also opt to help bathe the elephants.

 Book a Nature Walk with an Elephant During the Sunrise Here

Note:  If you’re going to do an elephant ride or bath, ensure that the elephants are well looked after. Unfortunately, many tourists don’t realize that some of the ‘sanctuaries’ here actually mistreat the elephants.

Top Places to Visit Around Chitwan

7. bike ride to the scenic 20,000 lake (bishazari lake).

One of the best things I did in Chitwan was biking to 20,000 Lake, a popular picnic spot for tourists and locals.

To get there from Sauraha, you can take a tuk-tuk or rent a bicycle for ~$3/half day.

I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the heat, as there is little to no shade along the path. But it is very flat even though it is about 10 miles one way.

A separate entrance fee for the community buffer zone costs 200 NPR for foreigners.

8. Tharu Culture Programs

In the evening, two performance venues in Sauraha put on a Tharu cultural program. This includes a few traditional Tharu dances and a narrator introducing their way of life and culture.

The programs are around 1 hour long and cost only 200 NPR to attend. One facility (the original) starts daily at 7pm, and the newer one starts at 6:30pm daily. Since the seats fill up fast, I would save a good spot at least 15 minutes before.

9. Visit an Ethnic Tharu Village

The Tharu people are the indigenous people of the Terai region of Nepal and make up a decent percentage of the population around Chitwan.

Visiting a Tharu village is a great way to learn about their culture and how they live. During your visit, you will learn about the village from a guide explaining the different aspects of their life, such as their homes, food, and clothing.

10. Wildlife Museum

The Wildlife Museum contains preserved specimens of many different animals found in Chitwan, as well as information about their ecology and behavior.

The best part, however, is if you stroll around the small museum’s property–you might be lucky enough to meet some young rhinos meandering about mowing the grass. They’re wild and mostly friendly, but still don’t get too close!

11. Visit the Elephant Breeding Centre

The elephant breeding center is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Chitwan National Park. Here, you can learn all about the Asiatic elephant and see baby elephants up close for only 100 NPR, which is supposedly given back to the elephants.

As far as ethics go, chains, fences, and manual labor are involved, but they also explain that most are precautions to protect them. It may be up to you to decide if you would like to contribute to this cause. 

Other Fun Things to Do in Chitwan

12. watch the famous sunset from the riverwalk.

One of the most popular things in Sauraha is watching the sunset from the riverwalk, a long, raised platform that runs along the river bank. Relax as the sun sets into the canopy while enjoying a cold beverage from one of the many restaurants and bars along the way.

On clear days, you may even be able to see the glowing pink of the Himalayans.

13. Indulge in an Illicit Trip from Rhino Poo

For my hippie adventurers, Chitwan is known for having fresh trips from cows, elephants, and even rhino poo. Pick your poison. Just make sure you eat it fast or put it in the refrigerator, as it goes bad very quickly.

14. Try Local Wild Honey

At least taste test the local wild honey from the Sauraha storefronts. Completely natural from wild bees, it is a very different taste from the honey we all know from the supermarkets.

On the extreme end,  here’s a cool documentary  of how locals harvest a certain psychedelic honey from the high cliffs in Nepal.

How to Get to Chitwan National Park

Tourist bus [highly recommend].

The most popular and convenient way to get to Chitwan is by tourist bus from Thamel Kathmandu . These buses are reliable, direct, and have more comfortable seats. 

The journey takes about 5-6 hours from Kathmandu, and stop multiple times for bathroom and one meal break.

Most hotels and hostels in Kathmandu can help you book a seat on a tourist bus. Alternatively, you can go to any of the hundreds of travel agents.

Public Transportation to Chitwan

What I did, and I would not recommend. While there may be direct connections from Kathmandu to Sauraha, if you are starting from anywhere else, bus connections are complicated and take a lot of time.

From your starting point, you’ll need to find a bus to Bharatpur, the closest city to Sauraha. Then you can take a tuk-tuk for about 800 NPR directly or take two more bus connections first to Ratnanagar, then Sauraha.

Flights to Chitwan

You can also take a flight to Bharatpur airport and find a tuk-tuk or bus to Sauraha.

Where to Stay in Chitwan

The vast majority of accommodation in Chitwan is located in Sauraha, the main town near the park entrance.

There are all types of places to stay, from luxury resorts to basic guesthouses. I recommend finding a place with mosquito nets over the beds, as mosquitoes can be quite bothersome here.

  CHEAP PRIVATE ROOM WITH GREAT GARDEN – Hotel Tharu Garden

I stayed at Hotel Tharu Garden , where you get a basic room for dirt cheap prices of $6, but a great-looking garden and restaurant. It is a 10 minute walk from Sauraha’s main street, but the food in this part of town is also more affordable.

 HOTEL RIGHT ON THE RIVER BORDERING THE PARK – Jungle Wildlife Camp

 FANCIER RESORT WITH A POOL – Green Park Resort Chitwan

Best Time to Visit Chitwan

The best time to visit Chitwan is during the dry season, with the ideal climate occurring between October and February. Temperatures rise to a scorching 43C from March-June.

These hot, sticky days eventually lead into the monsoon season, which typically extends from late June until September. At this time, rivers will often overflow, and most roads become impossible to travel on.

Monsoon season is also when the leeches come out in droves.

How long should I stay in Chitwan?

If you want to experience the safari and see a few other things in Sauraha, I recommend staying at least 2 nights. Any less and you’ll likely feel rushed. Anything more than 4-5 days and you may start to feel like you’re stuck in a small town with not much to do.

What to Pack to Visit Chitwan

Chitwan National Park is a jungle, so you will want to pack accordingly. In addition to packing the standard items like sunscreen and mosquito repellent, I also recommend packing long hiking pants and closed-toed shoes.

Warning! I cannot stress enough the mosquito repellent. At the time I went, Kathmandu Valley and Chitwan were experiencing a massive influx of Dengue Fever, an illness brought upon by disease-ridden mosquitos.

Bucket List Worthy? Best Things to Do in Chitwan

If you’re not up for trekking or have finished your trek, exploring the top things to do in Chitwan is a great way to explore a very different side of Nepal. Here, you can go on safari to see one-horned rhinoceros and tigers in the wild, learn about the Chitwan Tharu village people and their culture, or just relax in a beautiful setting.

Things to Do in Chitwan Highlights:

• Observing a Rhino from 15 feet away
• Biking to 20,000 Lake

The post Move Over Africa! 14 Must-Do Experiences in Chitwan, Nepal’s Ultimate Safari Destination appeared first on Nomadicated .

Places To Visit In Dharan

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1. Budha Subba Temple

3 km from city center 1 out of 8 Places To Visit in Dharan

The Budha Subba Temple is a famous religious shrine, mostly for the Eastern Nepalese. The establishment has many folk tales surrounding it, along with many superstitious beliefs. It is best known for being a peaceful location where people can wish for happiness and luck.

2. Namaste Falls

2 out of 8 Places To Visit in Dharan

Namaste Falls is a popular attraction located in Bhedetar Village about 23 kilometres away from the city of Dharan in Nepal. The Waterfall is mainly known for the 'namaste' it forms as it cascades down the slopes of a rocky hill at the height of 80 metres. The area is quite remote and thus, uninhabited. While this may cause a slight delay in the procurement of things, it makes up for it by offerig jaw dropping views of the surroundings.

3. Pindeshwor Temple

4 km from city center 3 out of 8 Places To Visit in Dharan

Pindeshwor Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located in the central region of Dharan, at the base of the Vijayapur Hill. During the auspicious month of Shravan (the fifth month of the Hindu Calendar that begins by the end of July) and on the occasion of Maha Shivratri (14th day of the Phalgun month of the Hindu calendar), Pindeshwor temple particularly witnesses an increase in the number of devotees. The lamp at this temple is always kept burning. Here, tourists may choose to offer prayers and spend some time enjoying the divine vibe of the temple.

4. Namche Bazar

4 out of 8 Places To Visit in Dharan

Namje Bazar or Namche Bazar is famous for its weekly market and lodging amidst scenic surroundings. The place is located at an altitude of over 3500 metres and, therefore, is also popular amongst serious trekking. Several major trekking trails pass through the Bazar.

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5. Dantakali Temple

3 km from city center 5 out of 8 Places To Visit in Dharan

Dantakali Temple was built in the honour of Goddess Parvati. It is located in Bijayapur Village located about 3 kilometres away from the centre of Dharan city in Nepal. The attraction is also considered to be a significant Shakti Peeth. This temple mainly attracts devotees on the occasion of Dashain, which is an auspicious Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil.

6. Dharan Clock Tower

2 km from city center 6 out of 8 Places To Visit in Dharan

Dharan Clock Tower is a striking landmark in Dharan, Nepal. It is also a popular tourist attraction that was built in 1991. Its design closely resembles the Clock Tower of Hong Kong.

7. Bijayapur

3 km from city center 7 out of 8 Places To Visit in Dharan

Bijayapur is located in Dharan, Nepal and is famous for the Budha Subba Temple and the Dantakali Temple. The latter is dedicated to Sati Devi (Goddess Parvati) and is considered to be one of the Shakti Peeths. The former is visited mostly by those who want to make a wish.

8. Pathivara Temple

85 km from city center 8 out of 8 Places To Visit in Dharan

Pathivara temple, also known as Mukkumlung, is said to be one of the most significant Hindu temples in Nepal. Situated on the Taplejung hills, the Pathivara temple offers scenic views of the Mount Kanchenjunga. In fact, the road to the temple itself meanders through fog-filled landscapes and tall, shady trees. The members of the Nepal royal family are said to be ardent devotees of the Goddess and come here often to pay their respects.

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