Why should you visit Nepal! The land of immense historical culture with dramatic landscapes capturing the eight highest peaks in the world and much more, Nepal offers a wide range of exotic holiday destinations.

For most travelers around the world, Nepal – the land of high Himalayan Mountains, but one will be surprised that the country offers more than a mountain with a wide range of interesting places to visit.

Ancient traditions with the world’s heritage sites, with ancient religious monuments with old Palace and courtyard, with much greenery that surrounds the country with beautiful forest. 

The warm hospitality of Nepalese makes your visit more mesmerizing in the country that recognizes Nepal as one of the friendliest countries in the world, where visitors are greeted with open smiles.

Nepal, a land of great diversity, from culture, people, religion, varied climate with different scenery as you travel from one place to another from the low dense tropical jungles to the trail of Yak and Yeti.

Nepal is also the world’s richest countries in terms of bio-diversity due to its unique geographical location with various altitudes, where the country ranges from 60 m above sea level to the highest point on earth to the top of Mt. Everest at 8,848.86 m, all within a distance of 150 km resulting into climatic changes from sub-tropical-alpine to the Arctic.

A TREKKERS’ PARADISE:

The main flow of visitors to Nepal is for trekking in and around Himalaya, as the country offers various scenic destinations for all types of people as well as for the age group. From a short day hike and trek to a week or more of a month, travelers can choose all types of treks from moderate, adventurous to challenging grade.

Nepal is famous for the high Himalayan Mountain range with the world’s eight highest namely Mt. Everest, Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Cho-Oyu and Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Manaslu with world tenth highest Mt. Annapurna.

Besides world 8,000 meter peaks, Nepal with hundreds of other giant mountain range that makes Nepal one of the best trekking destination as well for all types of adventure.   

AN ADVENTURE HAVEN:

Nepal due to its high Himalayan Mountain range makes an Adventure Haven for all types of adventurers, as well as one of the most sought countries for all people seeking pure wilderness in the shade of high mountains.

Nepal offers a great range of adventures from trekking, major mountaineering, peak climbing, and mountain biking. The list of adventure continues with white-water rafting or kayaking to other adrenaline short adventure sports like Bungee, Sky Dive, Zip Fly, and Paragliding.

Trekkers and adventurers can find a wide range of adventure in Nepal from the country the Far East to the Far West and walking to the world’s highest base camp or doing a circuit of the high mountain range.  

Nepal occupies only 0.03% of the earth but it is home to 02 % of all the flowering plants in the world; 8 % of the world’s population of birds (more than 857 species); 04 % of mammals on earth; 11 of the world’s 15 families of butterflies (more than 500 species); 600 indigenous plant families; 319 species of exotic orchids.

All the nature treasures make Nepal an adventure haven for all kinds of visitors, where travelers can find comfort in a nice and lovely local mountain lodge or Home-Stay.

A SAFE DESTINATION:

Nepal not only famous as the world’s number one adventure destination, it is the country and its people that make the visitors safe and secure, one of the most friendly countries on this planet earth.

Wherever you travel, Nepalese people always help and greets you with a smile and traditional welcome on mountain villages, towns, and cities.

Nepal has more than 60 ethnic groups and 70 native spoken languages, but the main national language is Nepali. However travel-trade people understand and can speak English and other foreign languages as well which makes it visitors easy to communicate and feeling safe and secure, with the guidance of local guides, and its ever-friendly people.

All Guests are greeted with a warm friendly welcome, in the local language called ‘Atithi Deva Bhawa’ meaning “Godly Welcome”. 

THE WILD-LIFE:

Nepal not only a country of high mountains, glacial rivers, and scenic landscapes, due to dramatic geographical positions, Nepal is also a land of varieties where one can enjoy wild-life and jungle safari in the deep green tropical jungles of the Terai region.

The low land of Nepal, where dense jungles are located with abundant wild animals and exotic birdlife.

Before or after your major trip in Nepal, one can extend their holiday visiting Nepal’s southern low and warm country, where Chitwan National Park is famous and listed as Asia’s best national park for all types of jungle safari in the comfort of nice and lovely jungle lodge or resorts.

Wild-Life in Nepal tropical jungles where visitors can enjoy a safari on elephant backs and jungle or nature walks on the lookout for rare and elusive Royal Bengal Tiger, One-horned Rhinoceros, four types of deer, two species of crocodiles with other mammals with hundreds of different species of exotic birdlife.

Various great places for Wild-Life in Nepal for 2 days or more as one can visit Chitwan National Park, Bardiya National Park, and Kosi Tapu Wildlife offers exciting safari with expert guides to show you the wonders of natural surroundings of Nepal wild-life.

UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE:

Nepal is a country of many world heritage sites and the land of various Hindu God and Goddess, the only place in the whole world where Hindu and Buddhism blends in perfect harmony.

One can see monasteries and temples situated close to each other of Hindu and Buddhism religious sites.

UNESCO World Heritage Site starts from the capital Kathmandu where the tour takes you to the old Durbar Square of Malla kings to the Shah Dynasty with an ancient beautiful palace and royal courtyard.

Visit Swayambhunath a Buddhist Stupa, of more than 2,500 years old history perched on a hillock above west of Kathmandu city and the valley. 

Listed in the world heritage site as well the landmark of Kathmandu and Nepal, the other heritage monuments is Buddhist large dome Stupa of Bouddhanath, also known as ‘Little Tibet’, where Tibetan origin people reside with colorful interesting markets.

Next on the list is holy Pashupatinath an ancient Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located east of the city on the bank of Bagmati River, a famous and hub for all Hindu followers, where a great festival is called Shiva Ratri held in February.

World Heritage Site extends to Patan / Lalitpur means a city of arts and crafts located close south of Kathmandu city, famous for the ancient Malla kingdom palace with temples of great historical and religious interest.

Bhaktapur, another lovely city within Kathmandu valley located due to east a medial era city, the whole place is a living museum with most world heritage sites. Such as Durbar Square, Golden Gate, Palace of 55 windows, Nytapola temple, and many more where one can take a tour whole day visiting World Heritage Sites of Bhaktapur city.

Beyond and close to Bhaktapur is located an ancient temple of Changunararyan dedicated to Lord Vishnu, perched on a hilltop east of Kathmandu valley and north of Bhaktapur city.

The list of World Heritage Sites continues as Chitwan National Park and Sagarmatha National Park of Everest region added on the list of World Heritage Sites including the birthplace of Lord Buddha at Lumbini, located Far South West of Nepal.     

FOOD AND CUISINES: 

Travelers gets surprised to see and to consume such a wide variety of food and cuisines of international standard, along with local authentic Nepalese foods.

From the streets of Kathmandu to Thamel one of many interesting areas, loaded with fancy world-class restaurants, where one can get the choice from Continental, Oriental, Chinese, Mexican, Italian, Korean, Japanese, Tibetan, and Indian foods in the long list of the menu around most restaurants in Kathmandu, as well in other parts of Nepal of tourist interest. While traveling to the Mountain region Or Trekking to a high mountain, there is the most famous food is called dalbhat tarkari And Mo-mo.

Not only in cities, the food is an equally best on-mountain lodge and resorts as well in the national park area of Chitwan, Bardiya, and Kosi-Tappu as well on Riverside resorts also.

Wherever you travel in Nepal, you will never be disappointed regarding excellent foods and the service of Nepalese people.

DIVERSITY OF CULTURE:

Diversity of Culture is amazing in Nepal due to its mixed blend of culture of Buddhism and Hinduism religions, with over 60 ethnic groups of tribes and 70 native spoken languages.

Which makes Nepal a most fascinating country to visit and to observe the different cultures and life of each tribe, from the low land of the Terai belt to hill and mountain villages. Where every ethnic tribes around village communities have their own tradition and custom.

An interesting country Nepal with large and different group of tribes that makes a well worth to visit and to see all kinds of festivals as well, celebrating with full of joy.

Nepal, one of the few countries in Asia, with such variation of culture and traditions of Hindu, Buddhism as well ancient religion and Animism, a belief that worship nature and surrounding mountains, rivers, and forest.

Traveling in Nepal is fun and interesting to witness the different cultures of each village and festivals.

WORLD HIGHEST LAND:

Nepal is located in the high Himalayan range of mountains and in between China to the north and India in the south, west, and east.

Nepal a country of many high hills and giant mountain ranges makes one of the world’s highest land or a country. Out of the world’s 14 tallest peaks, 8 are located within Nepal that makes the country the highest land on this planet earth. Nepal rises from low 60 m in the down south to mid-green hills and then extends to the world highest Mt. Everest at 8, 848.86 m high.

A country that rises from sub-tropical to cooler hills and then towards arctic zone of remorseless fields of glaciers, ice and snow such a change in short distance of time, Nepal with highest hills and mountains where local Nepalese makes a permanent settlement on the higher valleys and hills.  

BIRTHPLACE OF LORD BUDDHA: 

Not many people in this world know and are unaware that Nepal is the land where Lord Buddha the Light of Asia was born on the full moon of May 642 BC, according to Buddhist tradition and historians. 

Lumbini of Nepal located in the Far South-West of the country, a drive of 7 to 8 hours or one can take a swift flight and then a short drive to reach the holy spot of Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha.

The sacred birth spot of Lord Buddha, designated as a world heritage site in 1997 and was rediscovered in 1895, by a German archaeologist who came upon Asoka’s Pillar. 

Identified the inscription and records made by the Chinese pilgrim Fa Xian which was also used in the process of identifying this religiously acclaimed site. 

Lumbini the birthplace of Lord Buddha, makes a fascinating pilgrimage tour not only for Buddhist followers but for all interested people who desire peace and salvation in this world. This visit will certainly provide you with inner sights of living in peace and harmony as well as contended.

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Any traveler visiting Nepal will surely experience lifelong memorable moments from his stay. There are many activities one can do while in Nepal, such as trekking, tours, hiking, and other adventurous sports.

Things to do in Nepal

Nepal is majorly known all over the world for adventurous trekking activities in the majestic Himalayas. Trekking in the Himalayas is not only about reaching near the magical soaring peaks, but it also provides you insights into the local people and their extraordinary culture. The famous trekking destinations in Nepal are the Everest base camp trek, Annapurna base camp, Annapurna circuit trek, Manaslu circuit trek, Langtang Valley trek, and many more.

You can also opt for Peak climbing and expeditions in the mountainous regions. Some of the famous peaks for peak climbing are Island Peak, Mera peak, Yala peak, and Lobuche peak. Similarly, some of the most famous expeditions in Nepal are the Everest expedition, the Kanchenjunga expedition, the Makalu expedition, the Lhotse expedition, etc.

If trekking is not your cup of tea, you can settle for other adventurous and thrilling activities Nepal has to offer. Some of the popular choices available for adrenaline-pumping activities are bungee jumping over the gushing Bhotekoshi River, paragliding in Sarangkot, Pokhara, rock climbing, and rafting through the rough rivers of Trishuli, Kali Gandaki, and Bhote Koshi.

Apart from these adventurous activities, you can also opt for tours around the culturally and naturally vibrant cities of Nepal. You can tour around the cities of Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Pokhara, Lumbini, and Chitwan. Each of these cities will leave you in awe and amazement. 

When to Visit Nepal?

You can visit Nepal during any time of the year, but keeping in mind the activities you want to do, it is better to schedule it according to the recommended seasons for the respective activities.

Generally, we do not categorize seasons as worst or best, but we do consider spring and autumn seasons as the two best seasons to visit Nepal. There are also some pros and cons for each season. So, you must find the ideal time to travel. If you are touring the cities, do not travel to Nepal during Monsoon as the views might be disrupted with fog and rain.

Similarly, if you are trekking during spring and autumn, you will be able to witness the marvelous, panoramic view of the clustered massifs of the Himalayas. There are further details below on when to visit Nepal as per your choice of activities.

Spring 

The Spring season in Nepal usually occurs between February and April. This is the time when the cold winds of winter start decreasing as the temperature gets warm and more pleasant. Since it is warmer, the winter fog clears up, and you will be able to enjoy a bright and magnificent view of the mountains. 

Spring season is the best time for trekkers as the wet trails dry up and offers the right environment for trekking. The trekking trails blooms with flowers and greenery making the trails more beautiful and enjoyable. Similarly, trekkers will also be able to enjoy the unparalleled view of the icy peaks. The most visited trekking destinations during this season include Annapurna base camp, Everest base camp, Manaslu base camp, etc. 

Spring is also an ideal time for hiking and other activities as you will be able to enjoy the warm weather and greenery. Focusing on the views, this is the perfect season for you to enjoy the best sunrise and sunset views from popular viewpoints like Poon Hill and Nagarkot. Some of the popular hiking destinations where you can see mesmerizing views are Chisapani, Shivapuri, Australian base camp, etc.

Spring is also the best time to witness the wildlife of Nepal. Going for a jungle safari in either Bardia national park or Chitwan national park would be one of the best choices. You will be able to encounter some of the rarest animals such as red pandas, Bengali tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, Asiatic Elephant, etc. 

Summer or Monsoon 

Summer or Monsoon season usually occurs from May-August. Summer or Monsoon is the most awaited season for farmers as it is the perfect season for planting rice. The majority of the population in Nepal is involved in agriculture, and you can witness the celebration of the rice planting ceremony as well as the national paddy day. 

Summer is not the best of the season to travel to Nepal. The country gets a lot of rain and heat during the months of summer, which can ruin your plan to explore Nepal. The temperature lingers around 28 degrees Celsius or more. Trekking during this season can be a little risky as the rainfall can make the trails very slippery. It can also be uncomfortable as the weather during this season can be extremely hot as well.

However, there is no need to worry as there are some trekking destinations that are not affected by the rainy and hot weather. The trekking destinations you can visit during summer are Upper Mustang, Dolpo, and Simikot, as they fall in a rain shadow and do not receive the monsoon rain.

Since trekking is not that much of a choice during the summer season, you can opt for hiking around the various hill stations. You will be able to enjoy a great scene of the lush green farms where Nepalese farmers sing, play, and dance together as they plant the paddy seeds.

You can also choose to raft during this season as the rivers are in full power. You will be able to enjoy an exciting and thrilling rafting session in the white waters of Trishuli, Bhotekoshi, and Kali Gandaki. You are also recommended to do jungle or wildlife safaris as you will see some of the endangered species like the Asiatic Elephant and Bengali Tiger. 

Autumn

Autumn or the post-monsoon season generally starts from August- November. This is the season when you can witness and experience the major festivals of Nepal. Autumn is also considered the best season to travel to Nepal for various activities.

It is a season filled with spectacular mountain views and radiant festivals of the Nepalese people. You will get the first-hand experience of festivals like Dashain, Tihar, and Teej if you visit Nepal during autumn. 

Considered as the perfect season, the weather during this time remains pleasant and precise. As the heat temperature lowers down and heavy rains come to a halt, it is the ideal season for trekkers to trek around Nepal. Offering a bright, picturesque view of the massifs this season is known for the best mountain views. Thousands of trekkers visit Nepal in autumn as they get the best visibility.

You will be able to get a clear and undisturbed view of the magnificent peaks such as Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Cho-Oyu in the Everest region, Annapurna I, II, III, IV, Annapurna South, and Gangapurna in the Annapurna region. Similarly, other peaks you will see are Manaslu, Machhapuchhre, Mardi Himal, Kanchenjunga, Langtang Lirung, etc.

If you do not have a lot of time for trekking, you can also opt for hiking around the city of Kathmandu or Pokhara. As this season offers the most beautiful views, you can hike up to Nagarkot, Ghorepani Poon Hill, Chisapani, Namobuddha, etc. You can plan a hike to Poon Hill or Nagarkot to witness the splendid sunrise and sunset views. Other activities you can do during this season are rafting, touring, and jungle safari. 

Winter

The Winter season in Nepal basically starts from December to February. The winter season in Nepal sees high pressure bringing dry weather. The temperature reaches almost the freezing point in high altitudes and can be cold during the early morning and nighttime. Most parts of the Himalayan region experience heavy snowfall while the hilly region remains untouched by snow. 

Winter is usually considered as a season where people say you cannot trek to the Himalayas. However, trekking in Nepal is not limited to spring and autumn. You can explore the winter Himalayas in Nepal and trekking is open all year long. Due to the extreme cold in the Himalayan region during winter, there are fewer trekkers visiting Nepal, and this is the perfect time to enjoy the solitude of the trekking trails in the Himalayan region.

Though it is not the best season to trek, the idea of trekking in winter should not be dismissed. You might not be able to trek to higher altitudes, but you will surely be able to enjoy the winter trekking in Nepal.  As you revel in nature for miles and miles by yourself with very few people to disturb your peace, you will be able to relish the blissful isolation in the mountains.

Some of the recommended destinations for winter trekking are Everest panorama trek, Annapurna panorama trek, Langtang valley trek, etc. High passes like Thorong La and Lauribina remain closed during winter.

Since winter is not the peak season, the prices of the hotels and their services can be much lower. In contrast to trekking, other activities like hiking, rafting, paragliding, bungee- jumping, touring, jungle safari, etc. are also doable in winter. 

Nepal Offers Many Things

Visiting Nepal is not only about trekking and hiking, but you will be signing up for a whole new world of new experiences. Nepal is one of the most popular countries to enjoy adventure and gain a lifetime memorable experience. You can visit Nepal at any time of the year according to the activities you have planned for yourself.

Some places that can be visited during any time of the year in the Himalayan region are Mustang, Dolpo, Rara Lake, and Humla Limi valley. Moreover, activities that can be done all year long in Nepal include short hiking around Kathmandu valley and Pokhara. Some of the most popular hikes that can be done throughout the year are the Shivapuri hike, Chisapani- Nagarkot hike, Dhulikhel- Namo Buddha hike, Ghorepani- Poon Hill, etc.

Another activity that awaits you is touring and exploring the different cities of Nepal. Visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Kathmandu Durbar square, Patan Durbar square, Bhaktapur Durbar square, Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, Changu Narayan, etc. will provide you an insight into the rich cultural heritage of Nepal.

You will be amazed by the number of temples found in every nook and corner of the cramped alleys of Kathmandu city. With narrow buildings sticking beside each other, you will come to love the hustle and bustle of this city. Similarly, you can also tour and traverse through destinations like Pokhara, Chitwan, Lumbini, Illam, etc. 

Nepal for All Seasons

Nepal has so many different ethnicities and cultures, which leads to so many different foods available in the market. Walking around Kathmandu, Pokhara, and other cities like Dharan, you will come to know that Momo is a renowned delicacy that is found everywhere in the country. You will be able to find Momo(a kind of dumpling) from the cold Himalayas to the warm, plain Terai region.

Similarly, there are other foods like the Nepali Thakali set and Newari food, which are loved by so many travelers, and it is a must-try dish for all tourists visiting Nepal. 

Conclusion

The real heaven on Earth, Nepal will surely give you a lifetime experience of fun and happiness. Any traveler or visitor must have Nepal in their bucket list or else he\she will be missing out on one of the most beautiful nations in the world.

You can visit Nepal at any time or any season of the year. However, keeping in mind the activity you want to engage in, you should visit Nepal accordingly for the best experience

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