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Things To Do in Nepal

Upper Mustang Trek, Things To Do in Nepal

Here are 8 Things To Do in Nepal curated by The Story Mojo

Nepal, a small yet mesmerizing country nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, is a land of breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Known as the birthplace of Lord Buddha and home to Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak, Nepal attracts millions of tourists, trekkers, and spiritual seekers every year. Despite its modest size, Nepal boasts an incredible diversity in geography, culture, and traditions, making it a unique destination in South Asia. This article explores Nepal’s geography, history, culture, economy, and tourism, offering a comprehensive glimpse into this enchanting nation.

Geography and Natural Beauty

Himalayan Region
Image Credit: HimalayanTrail

Nepal is a landlocked country bordered by China (Tibet Autonomous Region) to the north and India to the east, south, and west. It covers an area of approximately 147,516 square kilometers, making it slightly larger than the U.S. state of Arkansas. Despite its small size, Nepal’s geography is incredibly diverse, ranging from the lowland Terai plains to the towering Himalayas.

1. The Himalayan Region

The northern part of Nepal is dominated by the Himalayas, which include eight of the world’s ten highest peaks, including:

  • Mount Everest (8,848 meters) – The highest peak on Earth
  • Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters) – The third-highest peak
  • Annapurna (8,091 meters) – One of the most dangerous climbs

This region is a paradise for trekkers and mountaineers, offering famous routes like the Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Circuit, and Langtang Valley Trek.

2. The Hilly Region

The central part of Nepal consists of lush hills and valleys, including the Kathmandu Valley, which is the cultural and political hub of the country. Cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Bhaktapur are located in this region, offering a mix of historical heritage and modern development.

3. The Terai Region

The southern plains of Nepal, known as the Terai, are fertile and agriculturally rich. This region shares a border with India and is home to wildlife reserves like Chitwan National Park and Bardiya National Park, where tourists can spot Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceroses, and elephants.

Climate Variations

Nepal experiences a wide range of climatic conditions:

  • Subtropical in the Terai
  • Temperate in the hilly regions
  • Alpine and Arctic in the Himalayas

This diversity makes Nepal a year-round destination, though the best time for trekking is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November).

Top things to do in Nepal, including trekking, cultural sites, wildlife safaris, and hidden gems.

1. Trekking in the Himalayas

Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek

Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek
Image Credit: mosaicadventure

Duration: 12-14 days
Best Time: March-May & September-November
Highlights:

  • Stunning views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam
  • Visit Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital
  • Explore Tengboche Monastery

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek
Image Credit: stingynomads

Duration: 15-20 days
Best Time: October-November
Highlights:

  • Cross the Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
  • Experience diverse landscapes from lush valleys to arid deserts

Langtang Valley Trek

Langtang Valley Trek
Image Credit: magicalnepal

Duration: 7-10 days
Best Time: March-May & October-November
Highlights:

  • Less crowded than EBC & Annapurna
  • Visit Kyanjin Gompa and try yak cheese

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek (Short & Scenic)

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek (Short & Scenic)
Image Credit: klook

Duration: 4-5 days
Best Time: Year-round (except monsoon)
Highlights:

  • Sunrise over Annapurna & Dhaulagiri ranges

2. Explore Kathmandu – Nepal’s Cultural Hear

Pashupatinath Temple
Image Credit: Viacation

Top Attractions in Kathmandu

Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) – Ancient stupa with city views
Boudhanath Stupa – A UNESCO site & center of Tibetan Buddhism

Pashupatinath Temple – Sacred Hindu temple on the Bagmati River
Durbar Square – Historic royal palaces & temples

Where to Stay in Kathmandu

Hotel Price (per night) Why Stay Here?
Zostel Kathmandu (Hostel) 8−15 Social, rooftop views
Hotel Yak & Yeti (Mid-range) 60−120 Heritage luxury, central location
Dwarika’s Hotel (Luxury) 250−500 Traditional Newari architecture

3. Visit Pokhara – Nepal’s Adventure Hub

Visit Pokhara – Nepal’s Adventure Hub
Image Credit: nepaltoursdestination

Best Things to Do in Pokhara

Paragliding over Phewa Lake (~$80)
Boating on Phewa Lake with Fewa Tal Barahi Temple
Hike to World Peace Pagoda (Best sunrise views)
Visit Devi’s Fall & Gupteshwor Cave

Where to Stay in Pokhara

Hotel Price (per night) Why Stay Here?
Pokhara Backpackers Hostel 5−10 Lakeside, budget-friendly
Hotel Barahi (Mid-range) 50−100 Lakefront, great views
Temple Tree Resort (Luxury) 150−300 Boutique, spa, gardens

4. Jungle Safari in Chitwan National Park

Jungle Safari in Chitwan National Park
Image Credit: linkagetour

Wildlife Experiences

Elephant Safari – Spot rhinos, tigers, and crocodiles
Jeep Safari – Explore deep jungle trails
Canoe Ride on Rapti River – See gharials & birds

Where to Stay in Chitwan

Hotel Price (per night) Why Stay Here?
Green Park Chitwan 30−60 Jungle lodge, safari packages
Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge (Luxury) 200−400 Eco-friendly, wildlife experts

5. Spiritual & Cultural Experiences

Lumbini – Birthplace of Buddha
Image Credit: kimkim

Lumbini – Birthplace of Buddha

Maya Devi Temple – Sacred site where Buddha was born
World Peace Pagoda – Built by Japanese Buddhists

Muktinath Temple (For Hindu & Buddhist Pilgrims)

✔ Located in Mustang, a sacred site for liberation (moksha)

Kopan Monastery (Kathmandu)

Meditation retreats & Buddhist teachings

6. Adventure Sports in Nepal

Bungee Jumping (The Last Resort)
Image Credit: makalukhabar

White Water Rafting (Trishuli River)

Grade III-IV rapids (Best for beginners & experts)

Bungee Jumping (The Last Resort)

160m jump over Bhote Koshi River (~$100)

Mountain Biking (Kathmandu Valley & Mustang)

✔ Ride through ancient trails & Himalayan landscapes

7. Hidden Gems & Offbeat Experiences

Upper Mustang Trek
Image Credit: himalayanascent

Upper Mustang Trek

“Forbidden Kingdom” with Tibetan culture
Lo Manthang – Ancient walled city

Rara Lake (Nepal’s Largest Lake)

✔ Remote trekking destination in Western Nepal

Bandipur – A Charming Hill Town

Cobbled streets, Newari architecture, and mountain views

8. Must-Try Nepali Food

Must-Try Nepali Food
Image Credit: altitudehimalaya

Momo (Dumplings) – Best in Kathmandu
Dal Bhat (Lentil curry with rice) – Trekker’s staple
Thukpa (Noodle Soup) – Himalayan comfort food
Sel Roti (Sweet rice bread) – Festive snack

Final Travel Tips for Nepal

Best Time to Visit: October-November (clear skies) & March-May (spring blooms)
Visa: On arrival (15/30/90 days, ~30−100)
Currency: NPR (Indian Rupees accepted in border areas)
Transport: Domestic flights, buses, and private jeeps

 

Video Credit: Gypsy in Sneakers

Ready to Explore Nepal?

From Everest treks to jungle safaris, Nepal is a land of adventure and spirituality. Pack your bags, book your trek, and get ready for an epic journey!

Need a customized Nepal itinerary? Let me know your interests (trekking, culture, adventure), and I’ll help plan your perfect trip! 🚀

Nepal, with its majestic mountains, vibrant culture, and resilient people, is a country like no other. Despite facing political and economic challenges, it continues to enchant visitors with its unparalleled beauty and hospitality. Whether you seek adventure, spirituality, or cultural richness, Nepal offers an unforgettable experience. As the country moves forward, balancing development with heritage conservation will be key to ensuring that Nepal remains the “Land of the Himalayas” for generations to come.

“Once is not enough” – a saying that perfectly captures the essence of Nepal, a land that calls travelers back time and again.

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