Tourist Destinations in Nepal

Nepal does contain immeasurably diverse views of the whole world—the tallest mountains, cultural richness, multi-culture society, friendly and hospitable people, and all the opportunity for experiences, adventure, spirituality, and culture;

Although Nepal is quite small, it has it all. An incredible very broad range of diverse activities to experience, challenges to embark upon, whether trekking into the summits of the snow-capped mountains in the northern region or wandering through medieval towns or holy temples in the southern realm. It really doesn’t matter what you seek, whether it’s the opportunity for experiences, adventure, culture, spirituality, or everything that life and travel has to offer, Nepal affords this opportunity.

Below are the Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Nepal where tourists travel from all over the world.

Top 10 Tourist Sites in Nepal

1. Kathmandu Valley

Nepal’s cultural heart, the Kathmandu Valley, is comprised of three historical cities, Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan, which boast a vast history, culture, arts and architecture. There are seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites which are obvious assets to the country (i.e. Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Durbar Squares with centuries old temples and palaces…and not to forget the well known Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)). Every visitor should take in the experience of wandering the alleyways of Thamel or enjoy a tea with a view from a roof bar with stunning views of the Himalayan range.

2. Pokhara

Pokhara, adventure centre of Nepal, is the scenic lakeside town famous for the serene view it offers of the range of Annapurna. The largest attraction, Phewa Lake, has its clear lake reflecting snow peaks. It has adventure spots such as paragliding, boating, zip-lining, ultralight flight, etc. Pokhara is the base station for most renowned treks such as the Annapurna Base Camp trek, Poon Hill trek, etc.

3. Everest Base Camp

For a lot of people, Everest Base Camp is a trip of a lifetime, and the two-week trek gets you trekking through Sherpa villages, suspension bridges, prayer wheels, and view that spread past the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest. The trek is tiring work, occasionally even cold and exhausting work; however, the views of Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam combined with knowing you are at 5,363 meters above sea level is something you will never forget.

4. Chitwan National Park

To escape the mountains, travel south to Nepal’s oldest and most renowned wildlife reserve, the Chitwan National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Chitwan is littered with Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceroses, Asian elephants, and 500-plus bird species. Jeep or canoe safari into the jungles, birdwatcher’s treks, and Tharu people’s cultural dance performances make it an ideal family vacation spot.

5. Lumbini

The birthplace of Lord Buddha, Lumbini, has the sanctity of the global Buddhist population. The main attraction is the Maya Devi Temple where Buddha’s birth has been believed. The place also has peaceful monastic grounds with temples exquisitely constructed by nations across the world such as Thailand, China, and Germany. Lumbini has an unusual serene, spiritual feel, an experience rare in other Nepali cities.

6. Annapurna Circuit 

Yet another Nepali trekkers’ paradise, the Annapurna Circuit stands famous for landscape, ethnic, and wildlife diversity. From 160 to 230 kilometres en route, the trek goes over green valleys, rice terrains, steep cascading falls, wide mountain ridges such as Thorong La, and multiethnic villages. The trek remains both body adventure and soul adventure, with an interaction with people of Gurung and Manang.

7. Bandipur

Located on a ridge between Katmandu and Pokhara, Bandipur is a timeless Newari town, boasting ancient architecture, cobblestoned streets and Himalayan views in any direction, making it perfectly suited to slow travel. The controlled traffic of the town square is just the cherry on top. It also has temples, caves and trekking routes within walking distance of each other, and plenty of Newari restaurants.

8. Rara Lake

It is located in the most remote northwestern part of Nepal, the largest lake in the country, and one of the country’s most remote destinations. It is surrounded by forests and snowy mountains and has a breathtaking remoteness that is unmatched anywhere. Besides that, the lake is only accessible by flight and via trek, but if you are after true virgin wilderness, bird watching and peace to reflect – it is worth the extra effort.

9. Gosaikunda

Gosaikunda, a high-altitude alpine lake, it is located in Langtang National Park. It holds religious importance both to Hindus and Buddhists. It has steep mountain ranges around the lake at an altitude of 4,380 meters, and it becomes a part of the pilgrimage site when the Janai Purnima festival takes place. The trekking to Gosaikunda is short but steep, hence it is best for those who desire an experience at high altitude without an expedition for long duration.

10. Ilam 

Located in the middle of the Nepali east hill ranges, Ilam is famous for its rolling tea estates, greenish vistas, and sunrise panoramic view. Ilam is similar to Darjeeling but less famous as a picturesque holiday destination with fresh clean air, home tastings of tea, homestays among homestays with Nepali homestay families. It’s locals’ favourite but still less famous among foreign tourists. 

Conclusion

Small but vastly diverse–both naturally as well as culturally, Nepal has it all. The great Himalayan peaks, dense jungles in the belt of Terai, sacred sites, timeless villages, each location in the country has its stories to tell. 

Be it an adventurous trek or sacred pilgrimage, Nepal will give you an experience that you will cherish throughout your lifetime. It’s not where you are going, it’s what you are going to do. Pace your visit with care, travel with responsibility, and experience it all that this beautiful country has in its offerings.