Estimated reading time: 11 minutes
Are you planning to make Nepal your next travel destination but still in dilemma which activities and places to explore? If so, NepalHiking is here to help you by listing some of the top places to visit in Nepal 2024 that shouldn’t be missed. Whether you are interested in trekking, cultural tours, birdwatching, or just sightseeing, Nepal has everything to make your travel epic.
Kathmandu Valley
Kathmandu, also known as the city of temples, is the capital of Nepal. It is the centre of art, history, and culture. Starting your travels from this city is the best way to understand its life and culture.
Places to visit and experience:
Wander through the lively alleys of Thamel and visit the two most stunning Buddhist stupas, Swoyambhunath (Monkey Temple) and Boudhanath. Explore the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square, where the city’s kings were crowned. Make sure you experience Pashupatinath, especially the Aarati in the evening and live cremation rituals. Mostly, make sure not to miss the beloved festival, Indrajatra, where the chariot procession, masked dances, and witnessing the Living Goddess are the major attractions, making you fall in love with the city and the culture instantly.
- Recommended Tour : Kathmandu Heritage Tour
Pokhara
Pokhara is well known for having the best view of the Annapurna range. Anyone who goes trekking in this region must put Pokhara on their list. The natural beauty and the second largest lake, Fewa Lake, never cease to amaze visitors. On top of that, adventurous activities such as hiking, paragliding, skydiving, and mountain biking are other attractions of this heavenly place.
Places to visit and experience:
Visit Talbarahi Temple by boat ride through the heart of Pokhara, Fewa Lake, surrounded by the majestic Himalayas. Explore David’s Fall, Mahendra Cave, and experience the presence of the divine at Bindabashini Temple. Don’t miss the World Peace Pagoda for a sunset that lights up the Himalayas in hues of orange and gold, while the Sarangkot Hill is perfect for sunrise views and paragliding.
- Related Links: Things to do and places to visit in Pokhara
Chitwan National Park
Located at south-central part of Nepal, Chitwan National Park is popular for its rich biodiversity. It is home to endangered one-horned rhinos and Bengal tigers. If you are a wildlife lover, Chitwan is a must.
Places to visit and experience:
Enjoy the serene canoeing through the Rapti River to witness a closer view of crocodiles and exotic birds. Experience Chitwan Jungle Safari to witness the beauty of wildlife in their natural habitat. In the evening, make sure to attend the cultural shows which showcase the history and lifestyle of the Tharu community in Chitwan through dance and music.
- Recommended Tours: Chitwan Jungle Safari
- Related Blog: Chitwan’s Call to the City Souls – Adventures in the Wild
Annapurna Circuit
The Annapurna Circuit is legendary among trekkers for its incredible natural scenery and cultural depth. This trek takes you through various terrains, from lush subtropical forests to arid high mountain landscapes. Along the way, you will stay in traditional tea houses, interact with residents, and savour the genuine warmth and hospitality of the Nepalese people.
Places to visit and experience:
Go on the highest trekking passes, Thorong La Pass and the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world. However, if you are looking for beginners, Ghorepani Poon Hill, Mardi Himal, and Annapurna Base Camp(ABC) are some of the ideal treks allowing you the experience both lush forests and the majestic Himalayas of Annapurna. Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour is another activity that you must experience if you think trekking is not your cup of tea.
- Recommended Tours: Poon Hill Trek in Annapurna Region
- Recommended Tours: Discover the Magic of Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Nepal
- Recommended Tours: Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour
- Related Blog: Footprints in the Himalayas: A Soulful Trek Through Poon Hill and Beyond
Upper Mustang
Also famous for the “Kingdom of Lo,” Upper Mustang was a forbidden kingdom within Nepal until 1992 and opened for visitors only after 1950. So, if you are getting the chance to travel and trek Upper Mustang, consider yourself lucky, as it is still a restricted area.
Places to visit and experience:
Muktinath, a Hindu and Buddhist temple, is one of the major attractions of Mustang, which people visit for liberation. Besides that, you will be amazed by the divine feeling you will experience on this site, with the Annapurnas and Dhaulagiri adding more significance. Trek to Lo Manthang, the walled capital, with its ancient monasteries and royal palace that provides an understanding of the unchanged lifestyle. If you are not a big fan of the treks, the Jeep tour and Motorbike Tours can be the alternative. Attend the Tiji Festival, which marks the victory of good over evil. Witness the rituals and colourful masks and let go of your shyness by participating in dance with the locals.
- Recommended Tours: Discover Lo Manthang Mustang Nepal: A Journey of Culture and Adventure
- Recommended Tours: Upper Mustang Jeep Tour
- Related Article: How to get to the Mustang Region – A Comprehensive Guide
Everest Region
Visiting Nepal can feel incomplete without relishing the beauty of the Everest Region, where the highest peak on Earth, Everest (8848m) lies.
Places to visit and experience:
If you are an adventure lover, trekking at Everest Base Camp (EBC) is the major attraction and dream of many. It is considered one of the most difficult treks in Nepal, yet worth the experience as you will carry the profound sense of achievement for the rest of your life. However, suppose you prefer an easier way to experience the glory of the mountains without physical strain. In that case, we have the Everest Flight Tour of 1 hour, where you can enjoy the clear view of Mount Everest along with many other stunning snow-capped peaks. Experience and observe Lukla Airport, also known as Tenzing-Hillary Airport, which is a small and most dangerous airport in the world. On the EBC Trek, visit Tengboche Monastery, Sherpa Museum, and Khumjung Village and observe Khumbu Glacier and Khumbu Icefall.
- Recommended Tours: Everest Base Camp Jeep Tour in Tibet (Drive in / Drive Out)
- Recommended Tours: Everest Base Camp Trek – The Ultimate Adventure
- Recommended Tours: The Three Passes Trek : Exploring Nepal’s Everest Region
- Recommended Tours: Everest View Flight Tour
- Related Article: Distinguishing Between Everest Base Camp and Advanced Base Camp
Lumbini
Lumbini, known as the sacred birthplace of Lord Buddha, is a place of profound spiritual significance. It is not just a site of historical importance; it’s a centre for spiritual growth and introspection.
Places to visit and experience:
Spend your days exploring Maya Devi Temple, where Maya Devi gave birth to Lord Siddhartha Gautama in around 623 B.C. You can attend meditation sessions in this sacred place and absorb the peaceful atmosphere.
- Recommended Tours: Embracing Serenity – Lumbini Tour
- Related Article: Discovering Lumbini, the Birthplace of Buddha in Nepal: Journey to Enlightenment
Bhaktapur
Also known as ‘the City of Gods’,’ Bhaktapur offers a blend of cultural traditions, religious values, history, ancient arts, and architecture, making it a BIG YES place to visit, especially for cultural enthusiasts and those seeking an authentic Nepalese experience.
Places to visit and experience:
Visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the 55-windows Palace built by the King for his 55 wives, the Golden Gate, and the Krishna Temple. Spend a tranquil time at Siddha Pokhari, one of the oldest traditional ponds, observing fish. Spend hours wandering the streets exploring local handicrafts, arts, and cuisines. Try the famous jūjū dhau, a yoghurt made from buffalo milk.
- Recommended Tours: Day tour of Bhaktapur and Nagarkot
- Related Article: A Burst of Red: Experiencing Sindoor Jatra in Bhaktapur
Patan
Patan is another ancient city renowned for its ancient palaces, wood carvings, and Newari architecture, including several Shikhara and Pagoda-style temples. It is also called the Living Museum of Nepal’s rich culture, art, and history, displayed in monuments, paintings, and other art.
Places to visit and experience:
Explore the beauty of Nepali ancient arts and architecture through the Patan Museum, Golden Temple, Krishna Mandir, Mahaboudha Temple, etc. Savour the taste of local delicacies such as Bara(fried lentil patties), Yomari (sweet rice dumplings), and Momo (dumplings) and treat yourself. Experience the evening Arati at Pimbahal Pond, where devotees offer prayers to god. Also, whether you love pottery or not, it’s one of the activities at Patan that you won’t regret trying.
- Related Article: Things to Do At Patan Darbar Square, Nepal
Bandipur
Located in the central part of Nepal, Bandipur is another hidden gem that is highly recommended. It is especially ideal for visitors wishing to spend their time in peace far from city life. Bandipur, also known as the Living Museum, presents well-preserved 18th-century houses, mountain views, and hiking.
Places to visit and experience:
Hiking to Siddha Gufa and Ramkot are some of the best places to get the best views of the Himalayas. Stroll through Bandipur Bazaar to engage with locals and buy souvenirs to take back home. Stay at Newari homestay and try the local cuisines to understand the culture better.
Conclusion
Nepal is a country that ensures no travelers are left empty-handed, offering all that they wish to experience. No one is left disappointed. Whether that be the highest peaks, cultural and historical tours, or a home-away-from-home feeling, Nepal provides all.
As you plan your visit for 2024, remember that the best travel experiences come from not just seeing a place but immersing yourself in its environment and culture. So pack your bags and prepare for an epic adventure you will remember forever.