Top 10 Places to Visit in Nepal - Detailed Blog

  • Sajana Tripathi
  • Updated on Jan 6, 2025

Namaste!!! “The divine within me greets to the divine within you” 

Our blog on Top 10 Places to Visit in Nepal showcases in what manner Nepal is more than just the majestic mountains. At the same time offers a comprehensive guide to both serene tour and trekking destinations in the vibrant country Nepal.

Table of Contents

Namaste!!! “The divine within me greets to the divine within you” Enchanting phrase with clearly expresses the culture of Nepal. Yes, it means Hello/Hola/Bonjour and so on.  

Our blog on Top 10 Places to Visit in Nepal showcases in what manner Nepal is more than just the majestic mountains. At the same time offers a comprehensive guide to both serene tour and trekking destinations in the vibrant country Nepal.

Couple doing Namaste. Top 10 Places to Visit in Nepal

If you are planning to visit the spiritual and natural museum Nepal and looking for the Famous Tourist Attractions in Nepal. You have found the perfect guide. 

We will take you on a wonderful informational and visually captivating journey to get you familiar with Nepal which will surely help you in planning your trip further including the best natural and historical places to explore. 

Many visitors often mention, “The first-time people come to Nepal for the mountains and then return for the people”. The warm hospitality and kindness of the Nepalese people leave an ever lasting impression on anyone who visits the Himalayan Gem Nepal.

Whenever, I discuss with people the specialty of Nepal, I often highlight about the versatility of our spectacular country packed into an area of just 147,181 sq kms. In a single day, even by driving one could get from the rolling Hills to the sprawling plains witnessing the ethereal diversity. Nepal has an unparalled capacity to surprise the visitors in countless ways.

Here’s our handpicked list of the Top 10 Places to Visit in Nepal.

Kathmandu

The City of Temples, Kathmandu, the vibrant capital city full of different colors and aroma is a cultural treasure.

Top Attractions: UNESCO world heritage sites. Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Bouddhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu

What Makes the City Special : Astonishing ancient architecture, colorful aromatic vibrant markets, and rich history

Swayambhunath Stupa Kathmandu Nepal

You can easily spend a day or two in the Kathmandu valley, familiarizing with the amazing artifacts of the capital, Kasthamandap, also known as Kantipur.

For the city sightseeing, we suggest a guided tour, as the sites are quite big and with rich historical significance.

ExploreKathmandu Valley Tour package for a day tour including Swayambhunath Stupa, Bouddhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple and Kathmandu Durbar Square.

If you are looking to explore all the 7 UNESCO world heritage sites tour also including Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Drbar Square and Changu Narayan Temple then we have two day tour option : 7 Kathmandu World Heritage Sightseeing Tour- 2 Days

Alternatively, if you prefer to visit on your own and are staying in a hotel in the popular tourist area Thamel both Swayambhunath and Kathmandu Durbar Square are within walking distance. You can easily take a cab to Pashupatinath temple and walk to the Bouddhanath stupa. For exploring other attractions, taxis are easily accessible. If you purchase a Nepali SIM card, then downloading the application “INDrive” will booking your ride much more convenient.

Pokhara

City of Lakes, The Natural Wonderland of Nepal. Famous as the "Adventure Capital of Nepal," Pokhara is an extraordinary haven with surreal natural beauty.

Major Attractions: Phewa Lake, Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, Sarangkot, and the Peace Pagoda, The cable car to Sarangkot. The Shiva’s Statue at Pumdikot

Why Visit: Enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna range and engage in adventure activities like paragliding ultralight flights, bungee Jumping, Hot Air Ballooning, trekking, single or multiple day hikes.

Recommended Activity: Visit Sarangkot at dawn for a magical sunrise over the Himalayas.

Additional Tip: And I personally recommend visiting Astam and staying at Hananoie- A Permaculture Resort for experiencing a wonderful stay with ravishing Japanese cuisines. You can hike to Astam from Hemja and hike the next day to Dhampur or Australian camp if you are looking for trekking. Contact us if you are looking for an expert to plan your holiday in Nepal or drop a WhatsApp message. 

"माछापुछ्रे फेवा तालमा पौडी खेल्दो रैछा 
पोखरा त साँचिकै पोखरा पो रैछा।"

The beauty of the Mount Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Phewa lake are often celebrated in Nepali songs illustrating the importance of the valley to Nepalese.

Pokhara City Nepal

Chitwan

Haven for Wildlife. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Chitwan National Park is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.

Offered Activities : Jungle safari, canoeing, birdwatching, and Tharu cultural dance.

Major Attractions: One-horned rhinoceroses, Bengal tigers, elephants, and gharials in their natural habitat

Insider Tip: Early morning safaris increase your chances of wildlife sightings.

Antelope in Chitwan National Park Nepal

Lumbini

The birthplace of Lord Buddha. 

A sacred pilgrimage site, Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Buddha.

Major Attractions: Maya Devi Temple, Ashoka Pillar, and monasteries in the monastic zone.

Why Visit: Immerse yourself in the spiritual serenity and learn about Buddhism’s origins by being at the birth place of Prince Siddhartha Gautam who left his palace seeking the path of enlightenment.

How to enhance your Expereince: Hire a local guide to understand the historical and spiritual significance of the sites. The local guide can put light on the local way of living and the culture as well. 

Photo of two ladies in Lumbini Nepal

Everest Region

The Ultimate Trekking Destination

The home to the dream mountain of many people, the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest (8848.86m),  the Everest Region is a must-visit for trekkers.

Major Highlights: Everest Base Camp Trek, Gokyo Lakes, and Kalapatthar, The three high Passes Renjo La, Chola and Kongma la. 

Why you must Visit?: To experience the jaw-dropping Himalayan landscapes and learn about Sherpa culture.

Who says Everest is just for trekkers?

Let me share a memorable experience.

Once, a lady approached me with an unusual request—she wanted to fly to Lukla and return the same day. Surprised, I asked, “Just fly and come back?”

She nodded, and after a brief pause, I suggested, “Why not walk for a couple of days instead? You’d get to truly experience the beauty of the region.”

She hesitated, explaining she wasn’t much of a walker and had her doubts. I reassured her, saying, “Don’t worry! I’ll arrange our best guide who will walk at your pace. You don’t need to rush—just enjoy the journey.”

After some consideration, she agreed.

When she returned, her joy was unmistakable. She shared incredible stories of her walk, proudly showed me the stunning photos she’d captured, and couldn’t stop talking about the unforgettable memories she’d made. She was so, so happy—and that happiness was truly rewarding to see.

People relaxing at Everest View Hotel with mountain views in Nepal

Annapurna Region

Trekker's Paradise, The Annapurna Region offers some of the most accessible and rewarding treks in Nepal. Ofcourse, enchanting views. 

Top Highlights: Annapurna Base Camp, Ghorepani Poon Hill, and Mardi Himal Trek, Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake.

Why Visit: Stunning mountain vistas, lush valleys, and charming Gurung villages.

Tip: The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is perfect for beginners seeking spectacular views.

Accessibility: Suitable for all trekking levels.

Annapurna mountain view from ABC, Nepal

Upper Mustang

This remote region, also known as the "Last Forbidden Kingdom," offers a unique cultural experience.

Top Attractions: Lo Manthang, ancient caves, and Tibetan-influenced monasteries.

What makes it worth visiting: Explore a landscape that feels untouched by time and steeped in Tibetan culture.

Insider Tip: A restricted area permit is required, so plan your trip through a registered trekking agency.

Upper Mustang Nepal Top Place to Visit in Nepal

Bardia National Park 

Top Highlights: Wildlife paradise featuring Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceroses, and over 250 bird species amidst dense forests and grasslands.

Why Visit: Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, jungle safaris, and cultural immersion with the Tharu community.

Expert Insight: Explore the park with an experienced naturalist for the best chance to spot elusive wildlife, and don’t miss a canoe ride along the Karnali River for a unique perspective on the region’s rich biodiversity.

Our Journey : Pokhara-Lumbini-Bardia

Our indelible journey began with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Lumbini, where the best use of our time. We took a Tuk-tuk (electric rickshaw) to explore the sacred park. The driver was incredibly thoughtful, ensuring that we visited all the monasteries built by different nations. Each one stood unique with different architectural style, and the diverse way of storytelling about the life of Buddha was truly captivating. I felt completely immersed in the tales, from the intricate paintings, the statues, the spot that marks the birth place of Gautam Buddha and the revered Ashoka Pillar. What more could we ask for such a remarkable day!!! I am truly grateful for the phenomenal experience. Although, it was not my first visit to Lumbini but the presence of my friends made it quite special.

The following day, we took quite a long and rewarding drive to Bardia. Not many tourists go there, as it is about 500 kms from Kathmandu, but you can fly in and fly out from Nepagunj Airport, and Bardia is like 1 and half hour drive. The jungle is so vast with tall trees and well-preserved eco system. I will always rejoice the best two days of my life there with my friends from Spain, Laura Tormenta and Lydia. We stayed for two days but unfortunately, we were not lucky enough to spot the Bengal Tiger. Bardia is recommended for 3 nights with high probability of seeing a tiger during the jungle walk.

ladies wearing Save the tiger tshirt at Bardia, Nepal

Bandipur

With the Slogan Where Heaven Meets, Bandipur is a beautifully preserved village that offers a glimpse into traditional Newari culture.

Top Attractions: Himalayan Views, Siddha Cave, Thani Mai Temple, and panoramic Himalayan views.

Why Visit: Experience a serene atmosphere and learn about Nepal’s cultural heritage.

Insider Tip: Stay in a heritage guesthouse for an authentic experience.

Best place to stay: Old Inn Bandipur for true taste of Nepali Heritage Architecture

Bandipur Heaven in Nepal

Nagarkot

Nagarkot is a popular hill station known for its stunning sunrise views. It is a wonderful option for people who have less days in Nepal but still wish to enjoy the view of the Himalayas. 

Top Highlights: Views of Mount Everest and other Himalayan peaks on clear days.

Why Visit: A peaceful retreat close to Kathmandu, ideal for nature lovers.

Insider Tip: Visit between October and December for the clearest skies.

Nagarkot Nepal Top Places to visit

Additional Tip

You could also opt for an Everest Panoramic Flight to enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks. These flights depart daily from Kathmandu's domestic airport, offering an unforgettable one-hour aerial experience of the majestic Himalayas.

Everest Panaromic Mountain Flight in Nepal

Conclusion for Top 10 Places to Visit in Nepal

In our Blog “Top 10 Places to Visit in Nepal”, we have done our best to highlight some of most incredible destinations. But truth be told, there is so much more to discover. The rich diversity in both the natural beauty and cultural heritage makes Nepal one of the most fantastic places on earth. It is a country which wins the hearts of the visitors who often leave by saying “Hami chitai Farkera aune chau. हामी छिटै फर्केर आउने छौँ। We will return soon. ”

Nepal is a land of unparalleled diversity, offering something for every kind of traveler. Whether you seek adventure in the Himalayas, wildlife encounters in the jungle, or a deep dive into spiritual heritage, Nepal has it all. Start planning your journey to explore these breathtaking destinations and create memories to last a lifetime.

One thing everyone should keep in mind is that Nepal is a developing country, and the road journeys can be challenging due to the ongoing construction on many routes. You can opt for the flights connecting various cities to make your journey more comfortable. The capital city has flights connecting to major cities like Pokhara, Bhairahawa (Lumbini), Bharatpur (Chitwan), Nepalgunj, Janakpur, Bhadrapur and so on. However, the road journeys also offer an adventure and breathtaking views. Just be prepared for the bumpy rides.

Plan Your Trip with Hiking Adventure Treks: Reach out to us for customized itineraries, the best trekking packages, and expert guidance to ensure your Nepal adventure is indelible.

Any feedback shall be delightfully entertained. Contact us or drop an email at [email protected]

“धन्यबाद" “Dhanyabaad “Thankyou” for your time for reading our blog.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When is the Best Time to Visit Nepal? 

For Trekking enthusiasts, the best months regarded are March, April, May and September, October and November. But yes, in December and January clear skies are visible and is a wonderful time for trekking in the lower regions and for the people who prefer less crowded trails. 

On the other hand, for tours going any month is suitable. July and August should be avoided by people not preferring to travel during monsoon. 

Is Nepal Safe for Solo Traveler? 

Nepal is totally safe for solo travelers. Additionally, if you wish company of a guide or a packaged tour, you can always contact a trustworthy travel agency. 

What are the Best Places to Visit in Nepal in 3 Days? 

If you are coming for a short holiday of 3 days then limiting your journey to Kathmandu and Nagarkot will be a wonderful option covering the 7 world heritage sites. Additionally, you can spend a night at Chandragiri Hills Resort as well. 

On the day of your arrival, you could go to Nagarkot making a stopover at Bhaktapur Durbar Square. On the second day, visit Kathmandu and go to Chandragiri hills taking the cable car ride. 

What are the Best Places to Visit in Nepal for couples? 

Nepal is a paradise and many people choose to go and celebrate their Honeymoon in this wonderful peaceloving nation. We had so many couples who came to Nepal to do the Everest Base Camp Trek on their Honeymoon. 

However, the favourite plan of the couples is the Golden Triangle Nepal Tour covering Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan. 

Please feel free to contact us for any further questions. 

 

Sajana Tripathi

Sajana Tripathi

Sajana Tripathi is the Managing Director of Hiking Adventure Treks.  Holding a degree in Tourism Studies and currently pursuing her master's, she is deeply committed to advancing her knowledge and understanding of the field. Fluent in  English, Hindi and Spanish, she effortlessly communicates with clients from diverse backgrounds, ensuring their needs are met with precision and care.

Since the beginning of her career, Sajana has had a deep inclination towards writing. This passion has driven her to conduct thorough research, significantly enhancing the quality of her content. Her extensive experience in crafting tailor-made travel packages allows her to consider the unique preferences and time constraints of each client, delivering personalized experiences that consistently exceed expectations. Sajana's dedication to excellence and her passion for travel enable her to write high-quality content with vast information about various topics, making her blog a valuable resource for readers seeking in-depth insights into the travel industry.

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