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Nepal has a spectacular landscape, culture and spiritual beauty in the heart of the Himalayas. As the country of the world’s tallest peak, Mount Everest, Nepal combines adventure, wilderness and culture. In this Nepal travel guide, you will discover the vibrant cities, untouched natural splendor, and friendly people that make Nepal an unforgettable destination. Schedule your trip using this guide to learn what you need to do to get the most out of your visit to this magical country.
About Nepal
Nepal is a landlocked nation in South Asia, bounded by China to the north and India to the south, east and west. It is located in the Himalayas and is, therefore, the gateway to some of the world’s most visited peaks, such as Mount Everest and Annapurna. Nepal’s geography extends from the flat Terai plains to the majestic Himalayan mountains. The capital, Kathmandu, is the cultural and political centre. Because of its geographical proximity, the country is easily accessible to international travellers, particularly from other Asian countries.
Whether you are a trekker seeking adventurous hikes, a culture buff wanting to visit ancient temples or an intrepid traveller who wants to sit back and admire the mountain panorama, Nepal fulfils all your desires.
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How To Reach
Photo: Los viajeros 77 / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: Kathmandu’s main international airport, Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), serves Nepal’s major cities, including Delhi, Bangkok, Doha and Dubai. There are many airlines such as Nepal Airlines that provide daily flights to and from Nepal.
By Road: Nepal has some border crossings with India, including Sunauli, Raxaul, and Kakarbhitta, where most overland travellers come into Nepal. The Kodari checkpoint is the main entrance point for those who travel from Tibet.
By Train: There is no express train to Nepal, but Indian Railways runs trains to neighbouring cities such as Raxaul, where buses and taxis are available.
7 Best Places To Visit In Nepal
Nepal is a land of majestic natural landscapes and historical culture. Explore these places with this Nepal travel guide.
1. Pokhara
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The picturesque city of Pokhara, known as the Gateway to the Himalayas, has expansive vistas of the Annapurna range. You may take boat trips on the beautiful Lake Phewa and enjoy the views of the surrounding hills. Travellers with a sense of adventure flock to Pokhara for paragliding, zip-lining and trekking. A sunrise trek to Sarangkot will give you an enchanting panorama of the snowy hills, and a visit to the World Peace Pagoda will ensure that you have peace of mind. Make sure to visit the mysterious caves like Mahendra and Gupteshwor or the cascading Devi’s Falls.
Location: 200 km west of Kathmandu
Best Time To Visit: September to November, February to April
Top Attractions: Phewa Lake, Devi’s Falls, World Peace Pagoda, Gupteshwor Cave
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2. Kathmandu Valley
Photo: Mario Biondi writer / Wikimedia Commons
Kathmandu Valley is the cultural capital of Nepal, where we can find the most prominent UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. The valley is a museum and an art lover’s paradise, populated by ancient temples, wood and stone carvings, and lively local markets. Wander through the street-food bazaars of Thamel, where souvenirs can be bought, and the cuisine is freshly prepared, or the medieval city of Bhaktapur with its gorgeous pagodas and potter’s square. The spiritual environment of Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), situated atop a hill, is a tranquil escape from the urban clamour and offers a spectacular panoramic view of Kathmandu.
Location: Central Nepal
Best Time To Visit: October to December, March to May
Top Attractions: Durbar Square, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple
3. Chitwan National Park
Photo: Sanjaya Adhikari / Wikimedia Commons
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Chitwan National Park is an oasis for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The park covers 932 square kilometres and is populated by a wide range of plants and animals, such as the one-horned rhinoceros, the Bengal tiger and the gharial crocodile. Take a jeep safari or canoe trip to explore the rich diversity firsthand. Birding at the park is also a delight, boasting more than 500 species. You can enjoy the Tharu culture by watching traditional dance and visiting villages. Chitwan National Park provides an exciting combination of adventure, education and culture.
Location: South-central Nepal
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Top Attractions: Jeep Safari, Birdwatching, Tharu Cultural Dance
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4. Lumbini
Photo: Gaurav197 / Wikimedia Commons
Lord Buddha’s birthplace, Lumbini, is a religious and historical gem. Tourists and pilgrims alike also make their way to the sacred Maya Devi Temple, which sits on the exact spot of Buddha’s birth. The sprawling Lumbini Gardens, where monasteries were constructed by Buddhist groups from Japan, Thailand and Sri Lanka, vary in design. The Ashokan Pillar, erected by the emperor Ashoka in 249 BCE, commemorates the region’s historical importance. The city has its own meditation centres too, so Lumbini is a place where you feel serene as a devotee.
Location: Rupandehi District, southern Nepal
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Top Attractions: Maya Devi Temple, Lumbini Garden, The Ashoka Pillar, Sacred Pond (Buddha’s Birthplace)
5. Everest Base Camp
Photo: Gunther Hagleitner / Wikimedia Commons
For Trekkers and adventurers, Everest Base Camp is a must-see place. The arduous but gratifying hike winds you through dramatic scenery, charming Sherpa towns and wild rhododendron woods. The route passes by some of the world’s most photographed monuments, such as Tengboche Monastery, with its magnificent vistas of Mount Everest. The walk also challenges your physical endurance and it also allows you to immerse yourself in the traditions of the Sherpa people.
Location: Khumbu region, eastern Nepal
Best Time To Visit: March to May and September to November
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6. Nagarkot
Photo: Carlosdfox / Wikimedia Commons
Nagarkot is a beautiful hill station offering unrivalled sunrise and sunset views of the Himalayan range. A short drive from Kathmandu, it’s a good option for those who are looking to get out into the open air. There are also good views of Mount Everest from the designated points of entry on clear days. It is also a favorite destination for day trips, short treks to local villages to live Nepali rural life. With its tranquillity and the breathtaking landscape, Nagarkot is an ideal vacation spot.
Location: 32 km east of Kathmandu
Best Time To Visit: October to December, March to May
Top Attractions: Buddha peach park, Nagarkot Panoramic Hiking Trail, Sunrise views of Himalayas
7. Bandipur
Photo: Eken7 / Wikimedia Commons
Bandipur is a small hill station, perfectly suited to retain the Newari culture and to capture beautiful Himalayan views. The car-free streets of the town, their old houses and cafes are evocative of an era gone by. Tourists can visit the largest cave in Nepal, Siddha Gufa, or gaze at the majestic views from Tundikhel, an open plateau. Bandipur’s tranquillity and friendly people make it a pleasant place to stay for those seeking a combination of culture, nature and rest.
Location: Tanahun District, 143 km west of Kathmandu
Best Time To Visit: September to December and February to April
Top Attractions: Tundikhel, Bindabasini Temple, Thani Mai Temple, Hiking Trails
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Where To Stay
Photo: Syed Qaarif Andrabi / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
From fancy hotels to humble guest houses, Nepal provides accommodations for every pocket. Luxury hotels in Kathmandu, such as Dwarika’s Hotel, are a combination of old and new; for a reasonable price, hostels in Thamel are a better choice. Pokhara’s lakeside resorts offer stunning views of the Annapurna range. For a different experience, try eco-lodges in Chitwan or meditation centres in Lumbini. Tea houses are available in trekking areas, and they have basic facilities and friendly services. Hotels should be booked well in advance (preferably in the peak season) for a smooth stay.
Where To Eat
Photo: Abhishek Sanwa Limbu / Unsplash
Nepal is also home to a rich cuisine that is both Tibetan, Indian and local. In Kathmandu, get Nepali momos and dal bhat at your favourite places, like Thamel House and Bhojan Griha. There are good multi-cuisine restaurants in Pokhara, such as Moondance and OR2K, near the lake. In Kathmandu, New Road has street foods like pani puri and chatamari that are tasty. Chitwan has the traditional Tharu food, and Lumbini has vegetarian meals suitable for pilgrims. Yak cheese and butter tea can be tasted in the mountains. Nepal has a wide range of cafes and restaurants to suit all taste buds.
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Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Prasesh Shiwakoti (Lomash) / Unsplash
Average Cost Of The Trip
The average cost of a trip to Nepal ranges from ₹30,000 to ₹60,000 (INR) for a week, depending on your travel style. Budget travelers can spend around NPR 3,000-5,000 per day, while mid-range travelers might spend NPR 6,000-12,000 daily. This includes accommodation, meals, transportation, and activities, ensuring a memorable experience without breaking the bank.
Tips For Travellers
- Carry sufficient cash, as ATMs may not be available in remote areas.
- Acclimatise properly if trekking to high altitudes to avoid altitude sickness.
- Use a refillable water bottle to minimise plastic waste and stay hydrated.
- Communicate with locals; it’s always appreciated and a good experience.
- Opt for guided tours in wildlife parks and challenging treks for safety.
- Respect local customs and traditions, and avoid pointing your feet at sacred objects.
Nepal is a land that combines adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty. From visiting ancient monuments in Kathmandu to trekking through the Himalayas, the country has plenty of memorable experiences to offer. It is an inviting country with a deep history and culture that will make any tourist feel at home. Nepal has everything you could be looking for, whether adrenaline-fuelled adventures, secluded getaways or cultural trips. With this guide by your side, you’re in a position to arrange a memorable trip. So grab your bags and book your trip with TripXL for a hassle free journey.
Cover Photo: Kalle Kortelainen / Unsplash
