Nepal is a mysterious and timeless place that stretches at the foot of the planet’s highest mountain range with landscapes dotted with temples, villages and wind-waved prayer flags. A country that like no other will be able to envelop and conquer you.
We have listed below our list of the best experiences to do in Nepal.
1) See Mount Everest
Trekking in Nepal is the dream of every mountaineering enthusiast for the chance to admire the highest mountain in the world up close. However, there are relatively few privileged people who can afford to climb Everest (8,848 meters above sea level), in fact an expedition can last up to 3 months and cost more than 50,000 dollars. In addition to this, a good psycho-physical preparation, knowledge of mountaineering techniques and a pinch of madness must be added.
Those who cannot afford the climb can hike to the Base Camp (5,340 meters above sea level) as it is easier to reach, less expensive but just as rewarding.
The route that starts from the town of Lukla (famous for its airport among the most dangerous in the world), takes about ten days of walking through mountain paths dotted with teahouses, Sherpa villages and breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks.
Those who are short on time and do not like to walk can see Everest up close with the panoramic flight from the Buddha Air that leaves Kathmandu every morning and flies over the majestic mountain a few kilometers away.
2) Explore Kathmandu
From the moment you arrive in Kathmandu, you will be immediately captivated by its magical atmosphere and strong spirituality. You will be enchanted by the traditional architecture and you will lose yourself in the colorful alleys full of an extraordinary cultural heritage.
Kathmandu became famous in the West in the 60s and 70s as a destination for hippies and then was later recognized for its high cultural value which is expressed in the temples, palaces, majestic stupas and monasteries.
Wandering through the streets of the old town leading to the ancient Durbar Square you will breathe an almost medieval atmosphere.
The most characteristic hotel to stay is the Kathmandu Guesthouse located in the heart of the Thamel district. This hotel was once a meeting place for artists, singers and hippies.
3) Take Refuge in the Untouched Nature of Pokhara
The snow-capped peaks of Annapurna, which are reflected in the crystal clear waters of Phewa Lake, are one of the most striking things in Pokhara. The city has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nepal, and is highly regarded for its natural beauty.
The Shangri-la Village Resort in Pokhara built in Nepalese architectural style is the perfect retreat for a detox holiday, immersed in the rural landscapes of Nepal where you can go trekking in the midst of unspoiled nature.
4) Trekking on the Annapurna Circuit
The Annapurna region located northwest of Kathmandu is dominated by majestic peaks rising 8,000 meters above sea level. The Annapurna circuit is one of the most spectacular treks in the world, thanks to the variety of scenarios that change from day to day, passing from green valleys to rice fields, up to rhododendron forests.
The route is dotted with teahouses where you can spend the night and try Nepalese culinary delights. It also passes by some Hindu sacred places, ancient monasteries and small villages inhabited by different ethnic groups.
The highest point of the Annapurna circuit is reached at the Thorong Pass at 5,416 meters above sea level.
5) Elephant Safari to Chitwan Park
Chitwan National Park is one of the few undisturbed natural oases in the subtropical lowlands of the Terai in southern Nepal. The park is the habitat of some rare endangered species such as the Bengal tiger, the Asian rhino and the Gharial crocodile.
The park’s lodges organize fascinating elephant wildlife safaris, jeep tours and canoe cruises. Generally the chances of spotting animals are very high, however the chances increase if you extend your stay in the park.
In addition to safaris, it is possible to get to know the Tharu ethnic group up close, visiting their villages near the park and attending their musical performances which are organized by the lodges almost every evening.
6) Visit Buddha’s Birthplace in Lumbini
Siddhartha Gautama, aka Buddha, was born in 623 BC in the famous gardens of Lumbini, which soon became a place of pilgrimage. Among the pilgrims was also the Indian emperor Ashoka, who had one of his memorial pillars erected.
Lumbini today is the most important Buddhist site in the world, where the archaeological remains related to the birth of the Buddha are one of the main features. Lumbini is full of temples and stupas including the Maya Devi Temple, the Dharma Swami Maharaja and the Japan Peace Stupa.
7) Take a Walk in the Medieval City of Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur is within easy reach of the capital Kathmandu, but it is very different. Strolling in Bhaktapur will be like traveling back in time and despite the gradual modernization, little has changed for centuries.
There are many interesting things to visit including Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square, Dattatreya Square and many other attractions that will leave you speechless.
8) Rafting
Lying in the foothills of the Himalayas, Nepal is rich in an astonishing variety of rivers. Simply put, it is a rafting lover’s paradise with a variety of routes suitable for everyone.
From half-day excursions to real expeditions that go from one place in Nepal to another through the waterways.
