What makes Nepal one of the most beautiful countries in the world?
The answer will always be its people, places and the stories it foretells.
Beyond the great Himalayan range consisting of the highest peaks of the world, you will experience a small yet culturally abundant Nepal. In the depths of the country, you will find the vibrance of the green countryside, the history of the old city alley, spiritual temples, the beautiful cultures of the people, and their unforgettable stories awaits you.
With lots of best places to visit in Nepal, Nepal has a lot to offer for both domestic as well as international tourists. A place unparallel to anywhere on earth, Nepal provides you a timeless feeling of peace, rejuvenation and gratitude.
Among an uncountable number of places and outdoor adventures to count for, three places top the list for attracting a greatest number of tourists. Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara and Chitwan are one of the ethereal tourist destinations and feature some of the most promising and historic places. Some of them are briefed as follows:
Pashupatinath Temple
Designated as one of the historic and holy places, Pashupatinath Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the banks of the Bagmati River. Pashupati, which existed since the 5th century still holds its glory among Hindus.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple’s major attractions are its Shivalinga and Nandi Statue. Many Hindu devotees come here for pilgrimage purposes every year. The atmosphere of the temple is made even more lively with the shenanigans of the monkeys, wandering sadhus and people’s utmost faith in god.
One of the sought-for sacred ceremonies in Pashupati is its Evening Arati, where you experience a serene unison of the God and the devotees. A pure sight of pleasant delight, calmness and peace.
Boudhanath Stupa
Boudhanath Stupa, one of the holiest sites of Nepal, is also Nepal’s largest stupa. Built during the 14th century, this place bears significance for the pilgrimage purpose for Tibetan Buddhists and Nepalese. The stupa resembles the shape of a mandala when viewed from above and is a central dome when viewed from ground level. The scene of spinning prayer wheels around the dome offers a good ambiance to those seeking the blessings of God, especially to those who are inspired by Buddha’s journey to enlightenment.
The stupa is surrounded by many local Tibetan restaurants, Tibetan handicraft shops and many monasteries where we can see many international tourists as well as local visitors enjoying their stay to the fullest.
Nagarkot
A trip to Nagarkot is considered a beautiful escape from the hustle and bustle of the modern concrete world. Located at 7,000 ft (2000 m) above sea level and just 28 km from the Kathmandu International Airport, Nagarkot of Kathmandu Valley offers relaxation and serenity to all adventurous visitors.
Further, the hill station situated at the top, showcases the magnificent views of 8 Himalayan ranges; Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Jugal, Mahalangur, Rolwaling, and Numbur range, along with panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley and Shivapuri National Park.
With such an atmospheric presence, Nagarkot has garnered a large number of attractive restaurants, hotels and resorts which are perfect for short trips.
Chandragiri Hills
Situated at 2,551 meters from the sea level on the South-west of Kathmandu valley, Chandragiri Hills is one of the most desired viewpoints in Nepal. The geographics of the place offers a pleasing cable car ride and a spectacular view of the Himalayan ranges and the greenery of Kathmandu valley. Along with the landscapes and mountains, the hill welcomes you with a larger than life picture of Kathmandu valley as well.
Aside from the cable car ride, zip-lining, paragliding, horse riding, etc. are pipeline adventure activities. Trekkers and explorers from far and wide keep Chandragiri Hills as a checklist while visiting Nepal. Moreover, Hindu devotees are especially found visiting Chandragiri Temple located at the top of the hill.
The ambiance of the place allures a large number of tourists and helps them feel rejuvenated and fresh with cultural, religious, historical as well as environmental enrichment. With this, the place has been an inseparable part of Nepal’s Tourism.
Chitwan National Park
Established in 1973, Chitwan National Park is considered the oldest national park in Nepal. It is one of the most beautiful treasures of Terai, Nepal and also a world heritage site with a diverse variety of flora and fauna. Home of One Horned Rhinoceros, Gharial, and Royal Bengal Tigers, Chitwan National Park is extremely relished by foreigners. Wildlife viewing and safari are two major activities to do in Chitwan National park.
The availability of enough lodges, restaurants and hotels in Chitwan makes this place favorable for visitors. Chitwan is very hot and humid during summer. The best time to visit this National Park is from October to February. But summers and monsoons are also equally preferred if you are not bothered by rain and hot temperature.
Swayambhunath Temple
To the northwest of Kathmandu lies the glory of Kathmandu valley, Swayambhunath Temple. Famous as Monkey Temple among tourists, Swayambhu is a popular shrine among Buddhist devotees. Although a center of Buddhism, this place holds a religious inclusion of both monasteries and Hindu temples, making it a common religious destination for both Buddhists and Hindus.
The central white stupa with Buddha’s eyes is what makes Swayambhu a significant piece of architecture. It is believed that the temple evolved spontaneously from the lotus flower when the Kathmandu valley was created out of a lake. This temple has been historic since the Manjushri era and is looked upon as the hallmark of faith and harmony.
Along with cultural and religious values, the panoramic views of the entire city make this stupa a desirable place to visit in Nepal.
Lake Phewa
Surrounded by some of the highest peaks in the world like Dhaulagiri, Manaslu and Annapurna, Pokhara is one of the most sought-after places in Nepal. Against the backdrop of these magnificent Himalayas lies the heart of Pokhara, Phewa Lake. It is a popular freshwater lake among a large group of visitors. It is the largest lake in Pokhara and the second largest lake in Nepal.
Boating in Phewa lake, receiving blessings from Tal Barahi Temple (located in the middle of the lake) and viewing stunning sunsets and sunrises are the major activities to do here. Baidam village, Sarankot, Ratna Temple etc. are popular destinations around this lake that offer an amazing feeling of peace and tranquility.
Most of the visitors enjoy Pokhara for the ambiance that this place holds and Phewa lake is one of them. With an increasing number of guest houses, lodges, restaurants, and hotels around this area, Phewa lake is the most favored holiday destination in Pokhara.
Lake Begnas
Located in the South-east of Pokhara, Begnas lake is the second-largest lake in Pokhara Valley and the third-largest in Nepal. If you are visiting Pokhara, a trip to Begnas is a must, for it offers you an opportunity to view the magnificent Annapurna and Manaslu Himalayan range. Begnas is a freshwater lake and is preferred by visitors, especially for boating and lake-viewing purposes. Hiking, camping and picnicking around Begnas have become popular over the years. An increasing number of resorts and beautiful hotels around the area of Begnas attract a large number of both domestic and international tourists.
Pokhara Shanti Stupa
Pokhara Shanti Stupa also known as World Peace Pagoda, was built as a symbol of peace. It offers majestic views of the picturesque Annapurna Himalayan range, Phewa lake and beautiful Pokhara valley. That’s why it is one of the favorite places to visit in Nepal while in Pokhara. Located at 1100 meters high on Anadu Hill, this place is equally loved by trekkers and bikers.
Mesmerizing views of sunsets and sunrise from the stupa and the peacefulness offered by the place make the stupa appealing and charismatic.
Devghat
Devghat is one of the sacred and cultural places to visit in Nepal. Located in Chitwan, Devghat is home to various temples and caves mainly worshiped by Hindu devotees. In Maghe Sankranti/Makar Sankranti (1st day of the Month of Magh), Devghat offers a huge Mela (carnival) every year where a large group of people gather together to offer their prayers to the Hindu god and bathe at the junction of Seti Gandaki and Krishna Gandaki.
This place is an open observation of Hindu Culture and is an important tourist destination for visiting culturally and religiously rich holy shrines.
Chitwan Tharu Village
Chitwan Tharu Village is one of the most popular places to visit in Chitwan. Enriched with the language, culture, lifestyle, customs and ceremonies of the Tharu Community, the Tharu village is a very close observation of their daily lifestyle and activities.
While the Tharu population resides in different terai regions of Nepal, the Tharu Village of Chitwan makes its presence significant among international tourists with the traditional culture. Their close and intimate bond with nature and occupation (agriculture) is what tourists are fond of. Further, a small museum in the village where tools and clothes used by Tharus prevails and preserves the cultural riches of the community. Culture-sharing, living and dressing up like Tharus during the stay often fascinates the visitors.
The richness of Nepal can’t be defined enough for the immense beauty and serenity it holds. Places like these make Nepal one of the most favorable destinations to visit in the world. Contact Wild yak Expeditions to explore the places of Nepal and experience the diversity that it has. We work and organize trips in small groups so that quality and safety are ensured. We make your visit more memorable and worthy enough. Come, join us!
Do reach out to Wild Yak Expeditions, the best trekking company in Nepal, if you want to visit popular destinations in Nepal. We will always be there for our people who desire to dream, explore and discover. Also, check the best hikes in Nepal and holiday packages in Nepal to make your trip more adventurous.
