Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Nepal is a land of stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offering diverse experiences to every kind of tourist. From sky-touching mountain peaks to lush jungles in the lowlands, the diverse landscapes offer various things to do in Nepal. This beautiful land has emerged as a paradise for adventure seekers, nature tourists, and spiritual travellers. Be it jeep drives to the foothills of Mount Everest, exploration of ancient temples, or spotting rare wildlife in its national parks, Nepal packs in enough variety in natural beauty and cultural richness to make any journey truly unforgettable.
13 Amazing Things To Do In Nepal
Here is a hand-picked list of some amazing things to do in Nepal to make your trip memorable.
1. Trek To Everest Base Camp
Photo: Surya Singh / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Tourists can start on the legendary journey to Everest Base Camp, which threads the Himalayas’ core. The trail will keep them amazed with every rise in the level towards towering piers of the Himalayan giants, including the “mother of them all”: Mount Everest. The path snakes its way through traditional Sherpa farm villages, where tourists can get acquainted with the rich culture and warm hospitality of the Sherpa people. Along the way, tourists come across monasteries, prayer flags that fly in the wind, and serene landscapes, making this trek a unique experience for tourists.
Major Attractions:Himalayan views, Sherpa villages, Tengboche Monastery, and Sagarmatha National Park.
Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November
Suggested Read: Adventure Sports In Nepal For Every Adrenaline Junkie
2. Encounter Wildlife At Chitwan National Park
Photo: Said Camlica / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Chitwan National Park provides the ultimate thrill of a safari ride, being a natural World Heritage Site that is legendary for its rich diversity in flora and fauna. As tourists enter an impenetrable Sal forest, they come face to face with the jungle life. This national park is home to the royal Bengal tigers, frolicking one-horned rhinoceroses and giant Asiatic elephants. This national park offers a large number of options to visitors, everything from ornithological exploration to hill walking, Jeep safaris or exploring the park at the back of an elephant.
Major Attractions: One-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers, elephant safaris, and jungle walks.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
3. Admire Kathmandu’s Durbar Square
Photo: Alexander Shafir / Wikimedia Commons
Kathmandu Durbar Square is an ancient city centre holding examples of traditional Newari architecture and craftsmanship. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has several intricately carved temples, ancient palaces, and bustling courtyards. The Kasthamandap Temple, which is hewed from a single tree, and the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, with its ornate wooden balconies, are top attractions here. Traditional festivals, cultural performances, and the lively bazaars around the square offer glimpses of Kathmandu’s rich history and high-spirited ambience. These bazaars are also perfect for exploring things to buy in Nepal, making Durbar Square one of the must-visit spots in the city.
Major Attractions: Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Kumari Ghar, and ancient Newari temples.
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Suggested Read: Top Shiva Temples In Nepal For A Blissful Spiritual Experience
4. Hike The Annapurna Circuit
Photo: Sergey Ashmarin / Wikimedia Commons
If you’re wondering what to do in Nepal, then there’s more adventure awaiting you. The Annapurna Circuit is a world-renowned trek that takes hikers through some of Nepal’s most varied and spectacular scenery. From luxuriant subtropical forests, the trail begins its gentle ascension out of the tropical zone into peaceful views oozing silent magic. It meanders through gorges and over terraces into the trees and the charming villages, providing hikers with a first-hand experience of the culture-rich local communities. The climax is in panoramic views of the Annapurna range with the towering peaks and the gorgeous Thorong La Pass.
Major Attractions: Thorong La Pass, diverse landscapes, Gurung villages, and panoramic mountain views.
Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November
5. Explore The National Museum Of Nepal
Photo: Clemensmarabu / Wikimedia Commons
The National Museum of Nepal is a treasure trove of Nepalese art, history, and natural history. The museum has three of the most important buildings: the Natural History Museum, the Museum of Archaeology, and the Museum of Fine Arts. Each section illuminates the rich and varied heritage of Nepal and features everything from ancient statues and artefacts to displays of fossils and historical relics. Exploring the cultural tapestry of the country in this museum is one of the best things to do in Nepal.
Major Attractions: Historical artefacts, Buddhist sculptures, and cultural exhibits.
Best Time to Visit: Sunrise to Sunset
Suggested Read: Explore Top Wildlife Sanctuaries In Nepal For An Adventurous Retreat
6. Relax In Pokhara
Photo: Martijn Vonk / Unsplash
Pokhara is a beautiful city, often called the gateway to the Himalayas, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and peaceful ambience. It is nestled beside the stunning Phewa Lake. This city also provides stunning reflections of the Annapurna mountain range within its calm waters. Visitors can relax by the lakeside, enjoy a leisurely boat ride, or simply take in the serene surroundings. Pokhara also serves as the starting point for many treks, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure in the heart of Nepal’s stunning landscapes. A visit to Pokhara is one of the most famous things to do in Nepal.
Major Attractions: Phewa Lake, Davis Falls, World Peace Pagoda, and Lakeside Market.
Best Time to Visit: September to May
7. Experience The Sanctity Of Lumbini
Photo: Kushal Kafle / Wikimedia Commons
Lumbini is the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama. It is a revered UNESCO World Heritage Site and a significant pilgrimage destination for Buddhists worldwide. This sacred site is home to the Maya Devi Temple, marking the exact spot where the Buddha was born, as well as the ancient Bodhi tree – one of the best places to visit in Lumbini, under which he is said to have meditated. The serene gardens and monasteries built by various Buddhist nations offer a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere, inviting reflection and reverence in this historically and spiritually profound location.
Major Attractions: Maya Devi Temple, Ashokan Pillar, and monastic zones.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Suggested Read: Temples In Nepal That You Must Check Out On Your Visit
8. Discover The Ancient City Of Bhaktapur
Photo: Martijn Vonk / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Bhaktapur is one of the ancient towns located in the vicinity of Kathmandu. This town is proud of its mediaeval architecture and rich historical past. The Bhaktapur Durbar Square boasts large, beautiful temples and palaces, with the famous 55-Window Palace featuring Newari workmanship. Furthermore, the streets that consist of narrow alleys with rows of house units, richly decorated with fittings and carvings, and lively squares provide a good walking experience. The reputation of Bhaktapur encompasses its beautiful pottery and local festivals performed in unique Newari-style costumes, which reflect the nation’s cultural heritage.
Major Attractions: Nyatapola Temple, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and Pottery Square.
Best Time to Visit: October to April
9. Try Nepali Cuisine
Photo: Lightscape / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Nepali cuisine contains a balanced dose of spiciness and a medley of ingredients, presenting great variability in its dishes. Key dishes include momos and dal bhat, accompanied by vegetable side dishes, and some Newari delicacies like yomari, a sweet dumpling comprising jaggery and sesame seeds. Tasting these dishes offers a delightful insight into Nepalese culinary traditions. Trying Nepali food in Kathmandu is undoubtedly one of the most popular things in Nepal.
Major Attractions: Dal Bhat, momos, Newari dishes, and traditional tea houses.
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Nepal
10. Go Paragliding in Pokhara
Photo: Nirmal Dulal / Wikimedia Commons
Paragliding in Pokhara offers breathtaking views of Phewa Lake and the Annapurna mountain range. As you glide through the air, you’ll see peaceful villages and terraced fields far below. Pokhara is known as Nepal’s adventure capital, and this experience truly shows why. It’s one of the most thrilling places to visit in Pokhara, perfect for beginners and seasoned flyers alike. Professional operators ensure safety and comfort, making it an unforgettable experience for anyone visiting Nepal.
Major Attractions: Annapurna mountain views, Phewa Lake, and Sarangkot take-off point.
Best Time to Visit: September to May
11. Visit The Pashupatinath Temple
Photo: Luca Galuzzi / Wikimedia Commons
Located on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu, Pashupatinath Temple is a sacred Hindu site dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s one of the most spiritual things to do in Nepal Kathmandu, attracting devotees and travellers alike. Visitors can witness traditional rituals and the unique architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple complex also offers a deep insight into Nepal’s cultural and religious heritage, making it a must-see for those interested in spiritual travel.
Major Attractions: Sacred Shiva temple, Bagmati River rituals, and traditional cremation ghats.
Best Time to Visit: Sunrise to Sunset
Suggested Read: Pashupatinath Temple
12. Mountain Biking In The Kathmandu Valley
Photo: Bijaya2043 / Wikimedia Commons
Mountain biking through the Kathmandu Valley offers a blend of adventure and local culture. The trails pass through ancient villages, lush forests, and terraced fields. It’s one of the unique things to do in Nepal, giving you a closer look at daily rural life while enjoying stunning Himalayan views. Cyclists of all levels can join guided tours, which often stop at local tea houses and monasteries along the way. It’s an ideal way to explore Nepal’s countryside beyond the usual tourist paths.
Major Attractions: Scenic trails, Newari villages, Shivapuri National Park, and terraced landscapes.
Best Time to Visit: October to April
13. Explore Patan Durbar Square
Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases Newari architecture at its finest. The square is filled with intricately carved temples, courtyards, and statues that tell stories of Nepal’s rich history. Exploring here is among the best things to do in Nepal with family, as the area offers cultural learning, local art shops, and traditional eateries. You can also explore nearby markets, where you’ll find things to buy in Kathmandu like handmade jewellery, thangka paintings, and brass artefacts.
Major Attractions: Krishna Mandir, Golden Temple, Patan Museum, and Newari architecture.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Suggested Read: Manakamana Temple
There is a diverse range of things to do in Nepal offering a rich tapestry of experiences, be it trekking to mighty mountains, or exploring the rich heritage sites. A journey across this wonderful land leaves one with unforgettable memories and an ever-lasting feel for its beauty and spirit. Pack your bags and let TripXL take you on a fabulous trip to Nepal.
Cover Photo: Photo Saurav / Wikimedia Commons
