Best Things to Do in Nepal
18th August, 2024 - Posted By: Himalayan AbodeThis unspoiled country, bounded on one side by the highest mountain range in the world and on the other by the green and tropical Gangetic plains of India, presents a gamut of experiences. From adventure lovers to pilgrims, and cultural or nature lovers, no kind of tourist will remain untouched by the appeal of Nepal. Here are some of the best things to do in Nepal.
- Nepal offers a rich blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and adventure.
- Explore Kathmandu Valley’s ancient temples and vibrant markets.
- Trek in the Himalayas, from the iconic Everest Base Camp to the serene Annapurna Circuit.
- Visit Chitwan National Park for wildlife safaris and spot rhinos and tigers.
- Experience the peaceful ambiance of Lumbini, Buddha’s birthplace.
- Embrace Nepal’s diverse landscapes, from the lush Terai plains to the towering peaks, offering something for every traveler.
10 Best things to do in Nepal
1. Everest Base Camp Trek: Popular Trekking Destination
Without a shadow of a doubt, one of the most famous treks globally, the Everest Base Camp trek is a dream come through. It is a tough trek that passes through quantity settlements of Sherpas, the splendid forest, and several suspension bridges right in front of the giants of the world such as Mount Everest.
The trek itself is not easy but gives a glimpse of the life and culture of such mountaineers mainly known as Sherpas.
2. Explore the Annapurna Circuit
But for those who do not want to tackle the crowd, yet want to experience the same wonderful trip, then Annapurna Circuit is the best. This route presents a great variation of terrains ranging from forested to sub-tropical to arid zones with the steep face of Annapurna the tenth-highest mountain in the World in the backdrop.
The circuit also takes you through various ethnic villages offering you the feeling of the cultural diversity of Nepal.
3. Cultural Place – Lumbini (Birthplace of Buddha)
Lumbini, a number one tourist destination under UNESCO World Heritage, is the birthplace of Prince Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha. It has the temple of Maya Devi, here it is possible to see the place where the birth of Buddha took place.
Buddhists from different parts of the world have constructed many monasteries around the temple, each with unique architectural features and settings.
4. Wildlife Safari is one of the most important parts of Chitwan National Park
If one is an admirer of wildlife, then Chitwan National Park is one of the finest places to go for a jungle safari. The species of animals found here are the one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tigers, deer, crocodiles, birds, and scores of other species of fauna. There are also motorized jeep safaris, nature walks, night nature walks, and canoe rides on the Rapti River.
Some of the Wildlife Safari at Chitwan National Park
- Embark on a jeep safari and be amazed by one-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers, and a variety of birds found in the park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Canoe Ride: Safari along the Rapti River where a chance to see crocodiles lying on the river banks and birds of various kinds is a possibility.
- Engage in the enjoyable and rare experience of a boat ride on the river in Chitwan.
5. Dissecting / Explore the Cultural Face of Kathmandu
People say that Kathmandu Valley is the richest in Nepal when it comes to temples, palaces, and stupas. Explore the three Khakampur cities of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur which have their respective Durbar Squares loaded with wood carving, stone carving, and historical places.
Pashupatinath Temple: See Hindu rituals and special happening in one of the most sacred temple of Nepal.
The Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) and Boudhanath Stupa areas are not to be missed as they provide for both spirituality and the feel of the valley.
Visit Durbar Squares: With its world heritage sites; Kathmandu, the Patan Durbar Square, historical prostitution of the temple in Kathmandu and the palace of Bhaktapur.
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): A walk up a hill brings you to a very old stupa where you get a vantage point view of the city of Kathmandu.
6. Paragliding in Pokhara
Nepal’s second-largest city, Pokhara with serene lakes and mesmerizing backdrop of the Himalayas functions as Nepal’s adventure hub. You will find here a very rich offer of attractions, and one of the most popular is paragliding.
Taking an unforgettable flight above the picturesque lake at Phewa, bloody lovely Annapurna Range in the background, everyone feels like a bird. It is something that incorporates risk with the kinda feel that should one look up, they would see the sky.
7. Praying on foot through Pashupatinath
Pashupatinath is one of the UNESCO world heritage site temples of Hindus and is situated in temple-Kathmandu on the bank of Bagmati River. The temple site is a world heritage site and receives visitors from Nepal as well as India, many of whom come to pray.
Only Hindus are allowed entry inside the temple premises, while non-Hindus are restricted from entering the temple itself. However, the area around the temple remains appealing due to the various religious activities, including riverbank cremations.
8. One of the cowardice activities is rafting on the Trishuli River.
Without a doubt, Nepal is one of the best places on the planet for white-water rafting fans. The Trishuli River lies between Kathmandu and Pokhara with challenging sections as well as calm and beautiful areas suitable for the first–timers and the most experienced rafters.
The river passes through many gorges and valleys which means you will have an entirely different experience of the geographical endowment of Nepal.
9. Meditate in a Monastery
For the others searching for quietness and spiritual development, the country is full of monasteries in which people can attend meditations. Some monasteries such as Kopan Monastery in Kathmandu offer short term and long term meditation courses.
Practice meditation, attend to teachings that are given by Buddhist Monks and get lost into the natural beauty of the atmosphere.
10. The Last Forbidden Kingdom: Upper Mustang Mystery
A special traveling terrain can be found in the even more distant area called Upper Mustang or ‘the Last Forbidden Kingdom’. It has vast plateaus, mountains, deserts, and lowlands such that it is also referred to as the Land of Lhasa, with famous attractions being monasteries, caves, wonderful cliffs, and the like.
The centerpoint has to be the capital, Lo Manthang with its royal palace and the gompas – a monastic complex look and feel from a different era. Trekking in the Upper Mustang is limited, which enhances the charm and the feel of the lost kingdom.
Most Recommended Things to do in Nepal
Geographically enhanced by breathtaking terrains, culturally vibrant and teaming with wildlife, makes it possible to engage travelers in several activities. Here are some of the best activities to do in Nepal: Here are some of the best activities to do in Nepal:
Trekking in the Himalayas
Everest Base Camp Trek: This popular hike leads you to the base of the tallest peak in the world and vantage points give a tremendous reward & satisfaction.
Annapurna Circuit: The Annapurna Circuit takes you through various terrains, from subtropical forests to alpine deserts, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna range
Langtang Valley Trek: One of the less popular treks on offer which provides a good view of natural beauty and explores the Tamang culture.
Cultural Touring in Kathmandu Valley
Visit Durbar Squares: With its world heritage sites; kathmandu, Patan Durbar Square, historical prostitution of the temple in Kathmandu, and the palace of Bhaktapur.
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): A walk up a hill brings you to a very old stupa where you get a vantage point view of the city of Kathmandu.
Pashupatinath Temple: See Hindu rituals and special happening in one of the most sacred temple of Nepal.
Paragliding in Pokhara
Tandem Paragliding: Paragliding is the best adventure activity as you glide over the Phewa Lake taking beautiful arial views of the Annapurna ranges.
Ultralight Flight: Take a short flight over the hills and the lake towards the Pokhara Valley for the bird eye view of the mountains and the lake.
White-Water Rafting
Trishuli River: This common trip for first-time rafters and those doing a repeat to eye-popping levels and intense rapids.
Bhote Koshi River: For adventurous fans, this river offers serious white water as well as extremely thrilling actions.
Exploring Lumbini
Maya Devi Temple: This is the exact spot where Buddha was born and today a stone pillar and several beautiful gardens have been established.
Monasteries: Visit different monasteries established by Buddhist people from different parts of the world; all the monasteries possess architectural features drawn from the characteristics of the people who constructed them.
Mountain Biking
Kathmandu Valley Rides: Make day excursions in the valley and drive through the countryside passing through villages and temples.
Mustang Region: For the more experienced riders, the next stop is Mustang where the trail is rough and is proved to be very adventurous.
Meditation and Yoga Retreats
Kopan Monastery: Visit monasteries, take meditation courses, get to know about Buddhism, and feel the tranquility in this monastery in the hills of Kathmandu.
Yoga Centers in Pokhara: In Pokhara, you can practice yoga while enjoying the stunning scenery of the Himalayas at one of the many retreats.
Canyoning and Rock Climbing
Sundarijal: Enjoy a day of canyoning down waterfalls and natural slides just a few hours’ drive from the capital city of Nepal.
Nagarkot and Hattiban: There are some of the finest rock climbing sites that are located in and around the Kathmandu valley.
Exploring the Upper Mustang
Trekking: Cross the desert-like terrain and go through the monasteries and the caves present in this spell-bounding region.
Cultural Immersion: Discover diverse and complex cultures of locals put into the label of ‘The Last Forbidden Kingdom. ’
Tourist activities such as Bungee Jumping and Zipline
The Last Resort: near the border with Tibet – it provides some of the highest acrobatic bungee jumps in the world over the Bhote Koshi River.
Zip Flyer in Pokhara: Trek is one of the longest and steepest zip-line which passes through the mountains of Annapurna range and Pokhara valley.
Helicopter Tours
Everest Helicopter Tour: If hiking is not your cup of tea, then hire a helicopter to get a bird eye view of the Himalayas, just to experience the Everest Base Camp.
Annapurna and Langtang Tours: Get to admire these mountain ranges from the most convenient position, or rather from inside a helicopter.
Cultural Festivals
- Dashain and Tihar: Learn about these important Hindu festivals and participate in events like rituals, music, and feasts accompanied by the celebration.
- Holi: Holi is a colorful and joyous festival where people of the city/ tourists scatter colors and dance.
Conclusion
That is why traveling to Nepal is not just getting to a country, but having the country get into you ever so slightly that it transforms the way you look at life permanently. Regardless of whether one is on a hiking trip in the world’s highest mountain range, a tour of historical shrines, or a cup of tea at a stranger’s home, each experience in Nepal is an odyssey. So grab your spirits and come to one of the most fascinating and charming places in the world.
Explore some similar packages: Buddha Circuit Tour In Nepal