More Information on Traveling to Nepal
Below we are highlighting some of the most famous tours and holidays in Nepal. Due to its mountainous terrain, Nepal offers excellent tour opportunities for trekking and climbing, kayaking, river rafting, and mountain biking, all activities where Nepal excels compared with other destinations around the world.
Key experiences on a Nepal holiday
A Nepal holiday offers diverse experiences, from breathtaking mountain treks to wildlife safaris. For adventure seekers, the Everest Base Camp trek is an unforgettable challenge. Traversing suspension bridges, glacial valleys, and Sherpa villages, trekkers experience the majesty of the Himalayas up close. The sight of Everest towering above the Khumbu glacier is a true highlight. In Kathmandu, Basantapur Durbar Square showcases Nepal’s royal heritage. The former Royal Palace, with its intricately carved wooden windows and tiered pagodas, stands alongside Hindu and Buddhist temples, offering a glimpse into centuries-old traditions. Nearby, Patan's temple courtyards display exquisite Newari craftsmanship, with finely sculpted stone and metalwork adorning the shrines. In Chitwan National Park, a jeep safari provides the rare opportunity to spot Bengal tigers, elusive leopards, and one-horned rhinos in their natural habitat. A boat safari along the Rapti River reveals crocodiles and slender-snouted gharials basking on the riverbanks. Head to Pokhara and try paragliding over Phewa Lake which offers a unique perspective of the Annapurna range. Floating above terraced hills and serene waters, adventurers experience a perfect blend of tranquility and thrill, making Nepal a destination of remarkable contrasts and unforgettable moments.
Top destinations to visit in Nepal
Nepal offers an array of must-visit destinations, each with its own unique appeal. The Everest Region is a trekker’s dream, with Everest Base Camp as the ultimate destination, offering breathtaking views of the world’s highest peak. Namche Bazaar, a lively Sherpa town, and Sagarmatha National Park, home to rare wildlife and stunning glaciers, enhance the journey. The Annapurna Region features the spectacular Annapurna Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit, known for diverse landscapes and cultural richness. Langtang Valley offers a mix of scenic trekking and deep-rooted Tamang traditions. Wildlife lovers can explore Chitwan National Park for safaris with rhinos and tigers, or the quieter Bardia National Park for an off-the-beaten-path experience. Koshi Tappu is a paradise for bird watchers. Cultural gems include Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan, with their historic Durbar Squares and temples. Pokhara captivates with adventure sports and serene lakes, while Lumbini, Buddha’s birthplace, is a sacred pilgrimage site. Remote regions like Manang and Mustang offer rugged, breathtaking trekking routes, and Gorkha and Janakpur provide deep historical and religious insights.
Find more information in our article on the best places to visit in Nepal.
Top tour activities in Nepal
Trekking is Nepal’s most popular activity, with trails like the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit offering breathtaking Himalayan views and cultural encounters in Sherpa and Gurung villages. For thrill-seekers, paragliding over Phewa Lake, bungee jumping off a 160-meter bridge, and zip-lining are must-try adventures in Pokhara. For Cultural exploration take a trip to Kathmandu which includes visiting Durbar Squares, ancient Hindu temples like Pashupatinath, and Buddhist stupas such as Swayambhunath and Boudhanath. Wildlife safaris in Chitwan and Bardia National Parks provide close encounters with rhinos, tigers, and crocodiles. Scenic flights over Mount Everest offer an unforgettable aerial perspective of the Himalayas. Food enthusiasts can savor Newari cuisine, while art lovers can explore traditional handicrafts and Thangka paintings. A visit to tea plantations in Ilam showcases Nepal’s tea culture. For deeper immersion, participating in festivals like Dashain and Tihar provides a firsthand experience of Nepal’s vibrant traditions.
Read our article on the top things to do in Nepal for more information.
Best time to visit Nepal
The best time to visit Nepal is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. Spring offers mild temperatures, clear skies, and blooming rhododendrons, ideal for trekking and outdoor activities. Autumn, after the monsoon, provides crisp air and stunning mountain views, perfect for trekking in the Himalayas. During both seasons, popular treks like Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit are accessible and offer the best weather. The second-best months are the winter months (December to February), which are quieter and less crowded but can be very cold, especially in the mountains.
If you would like a seasonal breakdown, refer to our guide on the best time to visit Nepal.
Optimal duration to explore Nepal
If you’re planning to trek in Nepal, 14 days is an ideal duration, as many popular treks like the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp take that long to complete. In 14 days, you can fully immerse yourself in a trek, taking in the stunning mountain views and experiencing local culture along the way. If you prefer a mix of activities, 14 days also allows ample time to explore Kathmandu’s temples, the serene beauty of Pokhara, and a visit to Chitwan for wildlife. For a shorter trip, 7 days would be better suited for exploring Kathmandu, a quick trek like Ghorepani Poon Hill, and a visit to Pokhara or Chitwan.
For more itinerary options, check out our guide on how many days to spend in Nepal.
Packing essentials for a trip to Nepal
Packing for Nepal depends on your activities. For trekking, essentials include sturdy hiking boots, a quality sleeping bag, layered clothing for varying temperatures, and a down jacket. In cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, lightweight clothes and a rain jacket will suffice. A power bank, water purification tablets, and cash (ATMs are unreliable in remote areas) are useful. Don’t forget sunscreen, a headlamp, and any necessary permits for trekking.
Sustainable travel practices when visiting Nepal
To travel sustainably in Nepal, start by carbon-offsetting your flight through Qantas. If you’ve booked a tour with Bookmundi, your in-country travel will be automatically carbon-offset from start to finish. Consider donating to Renewable World, an NGO that helps Nepalese communities access renewable energy. Reduce waste by avoiding plastic bottles, carrying reusable alternatives, and properly disposing of trash. Opt for eco-friendly transport like buses instead of domestic flights to cut emissions. Supporting local businesses and choosing responsible tourism practices ensure that your visit benefits both Nepal’s environment and its people while preserving the country’s natural beauty for future travelers.