Nepal is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty, rich culture, and history. Tourism is a major contributor to the Nepalese economy and provides jobs and income for many people in the country.
Tourism in Nepal has been affected by the 2015 earthquake and some of the trekking trails and infrastructure still recovering, but the Nepalese Government is actively working to develop tourism in the country and to improve the services provided to visitors.
The government is also promoting alternative tourism like rural and community-based tourism and also promoting sustainable tourism practices. Nepal has also become a popular destination for voluntourism, eco-tourism, and adventure tourism. Overall, tourism is a vital and growing industry in Nepal and there are many best tourist places to visit in Nepal.
Suggested: 15 Best Tourist Places to Visit in Bangkok, Thailand
Best Tourist Places to Visit in Nepal
There are many tourists places to visit in Nepal and some of them are as below-
- Kathmandu
Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal and is known for its rich cultural heritage, with several UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Pashupatinath Temple and Swayambhunath (also known as the Monkey Temple). It is located in the Kathmandu Valley in central Nepal and has a population of over one million people. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its many temples and shrines, as well as its rich culture and history. It is also a major tourist destination and a hub for trekking and mountaineering in the Himalayas.
- Pokhara
This city is known for its natural beauty, including the Phewa Lake and the panoramic views of the Annapurna mountain range.
Pokhara is a city in western Nepal, located about 200 kilometers west of the capital, Kathmandu. It is the second largest city in Nepal, with a population of around 350,000. Pokhara is known as a gateway to the Annapurna region, one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal, as well as a popular destination for adventure sports like paragliding, parahawking, and ultralight flight. The city is also famous for its stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mount Machhapuchhre, also called “Fish Tail Mountain” which is the most iconic peak of the Annapurna range, and Phewa Lake, which is the second largest lake in Nepal. This is one of the best tourist places to visit in Nepal.
- Chitwan National Park
This national park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including the Bengal tiger and the one-horned rhinoceros. Visitors can go on safari rides to see these animals in their natural habitats. This is one of the best tourist places to visit in Nepal.
Chitwan National Park is a protected area located in south-central Nepal, covering an area of 932 square kilometers. It was established in 1973 and was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. The park is known for its diverse wildlife, including one-horned rhinoceroses, Bengal tigers, and Asian elephants, as well as many other species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish.
It is also popular for its elephant safaris, jungle walks, and canoe rides on the Rapti River, which flows through the park. Visitors can also observe the lifestyle of ethnic Tharu people living in the buffer zones of the park and learn about their unique culture and tradition. This is one of the best tourist places to visit in Nepal.
- Everest Base Camp
For those who enjoy trekking, a hike to the base camp of Mount Everest is a must-do experience. The trek takes several weeks, but it offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Everest Base Camp is a popular destination for trekkers and mountaineers and refers to two base camps on opposite sides of Mount Everest. This is one of the best tourist places to visit in Nepal.
The South Base Camp is in Nepal and is the starting point for trekkers and climbers attempting to reach the summit of Mount Everest via the southeast ridge. This base camp is located at an altitude of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet) and is accessible by trekking through the Khumbu region of Nepal, which is home to the Sherpa people and passes through many beautiful villages and lush forests.
The North Base Camp is in Tibet and is the starting point for climbers attempting to reach the summit via the north ridge. This base camp is located at an altitude of 5,150 meters (16,900 feet) and is only accessible with a permit from the Chinese government. Reaching Base Camp is a challenging but rewarding experience and provides beautiful views of the Himalayas and the unique culture of the Sherpa people.
- Lumbini
This is a sacred Buddhist site and the birthplace of Gautama Buddha. It is home to the Mayadevi Temple and several other monasteries and temples. This is one of the best tourist places to visit in Nepal. Lumbini is a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site located in the Rupandehi district of Nepal. It is believed to be the birthplace of the Lord Buddha, who is also known as Siddhartha Gautama. The site is marked by the Ashoka Pillar, which was erected by the Indian Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE to mark the spot where the Buddha was born.
At Lumbini, you can find the Sacred Garden where the exact location of Lord Buddha’s birth, Maya Devi Temple, is located. It features the remains of the ancient Shakya palace and the pond where Maya Devi, the Buddha’s mother, is said to have bathed before giving birth to him. The temples and monasteries built by different countries surrounding the sacred garden are also interesting to visit, like the Chinese, Thai, Myanmar, German, and so on.
The Lumbini area, which also includes the Lumbini village, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and has been developed as a Buddhist pilgrimage center. It also serves as an important religious, cultural, and tourist destination, it’s visited by many Buddhist and non-Buddhists from all over the world each year.
- Annapurna Circuit
The Annapurna Circuit is a trek that circles the Annapurna mountain range in north-central Nepal. The trek typically takes around 12 to 21 days to complete, depending on the route and itinerary. The trek starts in the village of Besishahar and follows the Marsyangdi River, through lush subtropical forests, before climbing to Thorong La Pass at an altitude of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). The pass is the highest point of the trek and offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
The trek passes through diverse landscapes and ethnic villages, offering the trekkers not only beautiful sceneries but also the chance to experience the local culture and tradition of the different ethnic groups like Brahmin, Chhetri, Gurung, and Manangi. Trekkers also can enjoy hot springs in Tatopani, visit the holy lake in Muktinath, and also the spiritual hub of Buddhism in Manang.
The Annapurna Circuit trek is considered one of the classic trekking routes in the world and it is known for its scenic beauty and cultural diversity. It’s a challenging trek that requires a good level of physical fitness and a willingness to face altitude sickness, but the rewards are well worth the effort. This is one of the best tourist places to visit in Nepal.
- Langtang National Park
Langtang National Park is a protected area located in the central part of Nepal, to the north of Kathmandu, in the Langtang region. It is the first Himalayan national park of Nepal and was established in 1976, covering an area of 1,710 square kilometers. The park is known for its diverse flora and fauna, as well as its stunning mountain views and rich cultural heritage.
The park features the Langtang Himalayas, which include several peaks above 7,000 meters, such as Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and Langshisa Ri, as well as glaciers and alpine meadows. The park is home to a wide range of wildlife, including the red panda, Himalayan black bear, musk deer, and snow leopard.
Trekking in Langtang National Park is a popular activity, with several trekking routes that offer a chance to explore the park’s beautiful landscapes and rich culture. The trek starts from Syabrubesi and passes through traditional Tamang villages, lush rhododendron and oak forests, and high-altitude pastures, reaching Kyanjin Gompa, a sacred Buddhist Monastery, and Langtang valley. Langtang National Park was deeply affected by the 2015 Nepal Earthquake, but it is now open for visitors and is considered safe for trekking. It’s important to consider the park is less developed than other trekking destinations in Nepal, and the infrastructure may be limited.
- Bhaktapur
This ancient city was founded in the 9th century and is also known as Bhadgaon, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its well-preserved temples and palace squares. This is one of the best tourist places to visit in Nepal.
Bhaktapur is a city located in the east of Kathmandu, Nepal. It is also known as Bhadgaon or Khwopa and is the third-largest city in the Kathmandu Valley. Bhaktapur is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is known for its well-preserved palace squares, temples, and traditional Newari architecture. The city’s Durbar Square is a particularly popular tourist attraction, and it is home to several important temples and palaces, including the 55-Window Palace, the Golden Gate, and the statue of King Bhupatindra Malla.
The city is also famous for its pottery and woodcarving, which are local traditional crafts still actively practiced today. Visitors can see the Potters’ Square, where the pottery is made, and also visit the woodcarving square. The city is also renowned for the festivals held here and the traditional dances performed by the locals.
- Mount Everest
Mount Everest is the highest mountain in the world, with its summit reaching an elevation of 8,848 meters (29,029 feet) above sea level. The mountain is part of the Himalayan mountain range and is situated between the border of Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet Autonomous Region, China.
The first known successful summit of Mount Everest was made by Sir Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay of Nepal in 1953, who climbed the mountain using the southeast ridge route. Since then, thousands of climbers from all over the world have attempted to reach the summit, with many succeeding and many losing their lives in the process. Climbing Mount Everest is considered a formidable challenge, with high altitude, harsh weather conditions, and the need for specialized equipment and training.
Mount Everest is also known as Sagarmāthā in Nepali, and Chomolungma in Tibetan, which means “Goddess Mother of the Universe”. The mountain holds a special place in the culture of the Sherpa people, who have lived in the region for centuries and have a deep spiritual connection to the mountain.
Suggested: 18 Best Places to Visit in Kolkata
- Upper Mustang
This region is a former Himalayan kingdom, and it is known for its distinctive culture, landscape, and monasteries. It is also popular for trekking and offers a chance to see traditional village life. This is one of the best tourist places to visit in Nepal. Upper Mustang, also known as Lo Mustang, is a remote and isolated region located in the northern part of the Nepalese Himalayas. It is located in the Mustang District of the Dhaulagiri Zone.
The Upper Mustang region is a high-altitude desert and the landscape is characterized by the rugged terrain, eroded canyons, and the towering peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Upper Mustang was once a separate kingdom, ruled by its own king and has its own distinct culture, language, and tradition. The area was opened to foreigners only in 1992 and still requires a special permit to enter. This makes it one of the most restricted and least visited trekking destinations in Nepal.
Trekking in Upper Mustang is a unique experience and it’s considered a more strenuous trek than other popular routes in Nepal, due to the high altitude and the dry and cold weather. The trek takes you through traditional villages, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and temples and offers a glimpse of the unique culture and lifestyle of the local people, who are descendants of Tibetan origin.
- Rara Lake
This is the largest lake in Nepal and is surrounded by beautiful mountain landscapes. Rara National park is located at an altitude of 2990 meters, and it is surrounded by Rara National Park. The lake is considered one of the most beautiful and pristine lakes in Nepal, it is the largest lake in Nepal and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and dense alpine forests. The park is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including the snow leopard, musk deer, and the Himalayan black bear, as well as many species of birds.
Rara lake trek is a moderate-level trek, it takes about 10-15 days to complete the trek depending on the itinerary and route, and it’s best to go in between September to November and March to May. The trek takes you through traditional villages, beautiful landscapes, and dense rhododendron and pine forests, as well as offering great views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.
The lake is considered sacred by the local people and it is an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Visitors can explore the local culture and tradition of the people living in the region, including the Rara and the Jumli, the westernmost ethnic group of Nepal. Rara lake trek is also great for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those looking for a less-crowded trekking experience in Nepal.
- Pashupatinath Temple
Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most important Hindu temples in the world, located on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu, Nepal. The temple is dedicated to Lord Pashupatinath, who is considered the god of animals and the guardian deity of Nepal. The temple is said to have been built in the 5th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is one of the best tourist places to visit in Nepal.
The Pashupatinath Temple complex is one of the most sacred places in Nepal and is visited by thousands of devotees every day. The temple is a traditional two-tiered pagoda-style architecture with gilded roofs and richly carved silver doors, it is also one of the biggest temple complexes in Nepal. The temple complex is also home to many other smaller temples, shrines, and statues.
A temple is a popular place for Hindus to come and perform ritual ablutions in the Bagmati River, which is considered holy. The temple is also associated with the practice of the “Shivaratri” festival, during which thousands of devotees from Nepal and India visit the temple to offer prayer to Lord Pashupatinath and participate in various rituals.
Pashupatinath Temple also offers a great cultural experience and also a chance to see some of the customs and traditions of Hinduism. non-Hindus are allowed in the temple’s premises; however, they are not allowed to enter the main temple and its inner courtyard, but the view of the temple from the other side of the river is also an interesting aspect to explore.
- Kanchenjunga
The third-highest mountain in the world and is located in the far east of Nepal. This region is less visited than other trekking areas but offers a chance to see some of the most remote and beautiful landscapes in Nepal. Kanchenjunga is one of the best tourist places to visit in Nepal.
Kanchenjunga, also spelled Kanchenjonga or Kanchendzonga, is the third-highest mountain in the world, with an elevation of 8,586 meters (28,169 feet) above sea level. It is located on the border of northeastern Nepal and the Indian state of Sikkim. The name Kanchenjunga means “Five Treasures of Snow” in the local language and refers to its five peaks. Kanchenjunga is a part of the Himalayan mountain range and is considered a sacred mountain by the local people. It was first climbed by British climbers George Band and Joe Brown in 1955, who made the first ascent of the mountain’s main peak.
Kanchenjunga trek is a strenuous trek and is often considered a remote and wilderness trek, it offers spectacular mountain views, rich culture, and biodiversity. The trek starts from Suketar and passes through the remote villages of Limbu, Yakkha, and Lhopa, and beautiful rhododendron and bamboo forests, reaching the base camp of Kanchenjunga, Pang Pema. It’s important to be well-acclimatized and well-prepared for the trek as the altitude, weather, and remoteness of the trail could present some challenges.
- Janakpur
This is an important Hindu pilgrimage site and is known for its Janaki Temple which is dedicated to the goddess Sita. Also, the city is known for its traditional architecture and is considered one of the most culturally rich destinations in Nepal. Janakpur is a city located in the Terai region of southern Nepal, near the border with India. This is one of the best tourist places to visit in Nepal.
Janakpur is particularly known for the Janaki Temple, also known as the Temple of Janaki or the Janakpur Dham, which is a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Sita, the consort of Lord Rama, one of the most important Hindu gods. The temple is said to be the birthplace of Sita and is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. Janakpur is also home to a large community of Madheshi people, who have their own unique culture and traditions. Janakpur is one of the best tourist places to visit in Nepal
The city is also considered the cultural capital of the Maithili-speaking people and is known for its traditional festivals, such as Bibaha Panchami and Ram Navami which are celebrated with much enthusiasm in the city. The city has its own airport and is well connected to other parts of the country by road and train, making it easy to visit and explore. The city is also an interesting destination for culture, history, and religious tourism, offering a glimpse of the traditional lifestyle and customs of the people of the Terai region.
- Thamel
Thamal is a neighborhood in the city of Kathmandu, Nepal. It is located in the north of the city, on the banks of the Bagmati River, and is known for its traditional Newari culture. The Thamel neighborhood is a popular destination for tourists in Kathmandu, and is known for its vibrant nightlife, its many shops selling handicrafts, and its numerous hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants. It’s a great place to buy souvenirs, trekking gear, or even clothes. This is one of the best tourist places to visit in Nepal.
Read More
7 Golden Rules for Creating KPI Dashboard Software
20 Best Hotels in Kolkata for the Tourists
Best Google AdSense Alternatives in 2023 to Increase Website Revenue
20 Best Cheap Hotels Near Me in New York, USA
