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
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
✔ 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
✔ 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
✔ 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)
✔ Duration: 4-5 days
✔ Best Time: Year-round (except monsoon)
✔ Highlights:
- Sunrise over Annapurna & Dhaulagiri ranges
2. Explore Kathmandu – Nepal’s Cultural Hear
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
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
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
✔ 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
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
✔ “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
✔ 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
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.