Best Things to Do in Nepal

1. Kathmandu

Nepal’s largest city has a delightful collection of cafes, shops, and places to stay to experience the colorful, warm climate and meet the friendly locals.

Buddhist and Hindu temples, pagodas, and monasteries are sprinkled throughout the greater Kathmandu area, offering glimpses into Nepal’s fascinating history and rich spiritual culture. To top it off, views of the dramatic Himalayan mountains are plentiful from rooftop decks and balconies.

2. Chitwan National Park

Although snowy peaks are the first things to come to mind when most international travelers think of tours to Nepal, the southern part of the country is a vibrant subtropical jungle, full of wild animals and bursting with biodiversity.

A visit to Chitwan National Park, near Nepal’s border with India, could include sightings of one-horned rhinos, Royal Bengal tigers, Asiatic elephants, and dozens of exotic bird species during your walking park safari.

3. Mount Everest

A trip to Nepal wouldn’t be complete without  the chance to behold mighty Mount Everest, the tallest peak on Earth. If you’re a hiker, you make the 12-day trek to Everest Base Camp, eating and sleeping at teahouses along the way, and making friends with travelers from all over the world.

Climbing to 17,600 feet not your idea of a good time? No problem. Hop onto a scenic Everest flight to get an aerial view of Sagarmatha (as it’s known to the Nepalese) and its magnificent neighbors from the comfort of your seat in a plane or helicopter. Flights depart daily from Kathmandu.

4. Bhaktapur

The ancient city of Bhaktapur is one of three major population hubs that eventually grew into modern Kathmandu. A feat of historic architecture, walking through Bhaktapur is like traveling back in time. Visit Bhaktapur to try your hand at pottery making, shop for unique goods and textiles to bring back home, and marvel at the expert craftsmanship behind the city’s beautiful brick walls and ornate pagodas.

5. Annapurna

The Annapurna region, located about 200 miles west of Mount Everest in the Himalayas, is a world-class trekking destination with snowy peaks, sparkling alpine lakes, and friendly local villages built into the mountainsides.

With two popular trekking routes—the Annapurna Circuit, which stays high and circles the valley, or the Annapurna Base Camp trek, which travels through the valley to the base of Annapurna Massif—this area promises wonder, awe, and challenge for passionate hikers and backpackers. 

6. Pokhara

Known as a backpacker’s paradise, the city of Pokhara is the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit and a fantastic place for travelers of all kinds to get a taste of authentic Nepalese culture. Museums, temples, and restaurants are plentiful, as are views of the glorious Himalayan scenery. Paddle around on glassy Phewa Lake, sink your teeth into delectable moms (Nepalese dumplings), or relax after your high-altitude adventure.

7. Swayambhunath, the “Monkey Temple”

Nepal is a wonderfully spiritual place; both Hinduism and Buddhism play important roles in the culture. Swayambhunath is a beautiful white-domed Buddhist temple atop a hillside above Kathmandu with gorgeous valley views, ornate architecture, and a community of monkeys who have adopted the temple grounds as their home. 

8. Nagarkot

Perched at the edge of the Kathmandu Valley, views from Nagarkot stretch out over some of Nepal’s most iconic landscapes. Gaze at Mount Everest from a rooftop restaurant patio, or catch the sunrise over the Himalayas from your hotel balcony. Timing is important—the mountains are notorious for disappearing into a cloudy haze during some months of the year. Plan to visit during between October-December or March-April for the highest view probability. 

9. Langtang

While many of the popular treks through Nepal’s Himalayas require 12+ days, it’s possible to hike through Langtang in as little as 7 days (and still experience the same breathtaking, high-altitude scenery). Treks through this region aren’t nearly as crowded as the more popular trails near Annapurna and Everest, and travelers to Langtang often find it easier to connect with local hosts here, who aren’t overwhelmed by constant busyness.

10. Lumbini

Buddhism originated in Nepal, and during your Nepal tour, you can visit Lumbini, where Buddha was born (originally named Siddhartha Gautama). The grounds of Lumbini sprawl out across beautiful gardens and monasteries that welcome travelers and Buddhist pilgrims.