Things to Do in Nepal

Nepal offers an incredible variety of experiences, from mountain trekking and cultural exploration to wildlife safari. Here's our list of the top things to do in Nepal.

Whether you are a novice or an experienced trekker, Nepal offers some of the best trekking routes in the world. While the four-day Poonhill trek is one of the better short treks in Nepal, the Everest Base Camp trek—which takes at least 12 days—is the most popular among visitors. The Everest Base Camp-3 Passes trek or the Manaslu trek are some of the best adventure treks in Nepal, taking you on unparalleled trekking routes amidst pristine nature. If you're into climbing, we recommend Island Peak or Mera Peak. Both peaks reach over 6,000 meters and can be summited by people without prior mountaineering experience, yet promise a challenging adventure and memory of a lifetime.

Best season: The best time for trekking in Nepal is during the autumn season, from September to November, with October being the stand-out month. The weather is favorable, and the trekking trails are clear during this time. Spring (February to April) is the second-best season for trekking.

Insider’s Tip: Restricted areas such as Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpo, Manaslu Circuit and Kanchenjunga require special permits and the presence of a guide to ensure safety.

Trekking the Great Himalayas may not be something that everyone is cool with. But that doesn’t mean you must miss out on seeing the most majestic peaks on the planet. A panoramic Himalayan mountain flight tour is the perfect way to enjoy unparalleled views of those majestic mountain peaks, including Mount Everest. Mountain flights have their own unique charm. Some of the most popular peaks that can be seen through a panoramic flight include Mount Makalu, Gosaithan, Dorje Lhakpa, Gauri-Shanker, Pumori, and the Grand Daddy of them all — Mount Everest.

Top destination:

• Mount Everest: A helicopter tour across Mount Everest is one of the coolest things to do in Nepal. This tour lets you get up close and personal with some of the most traditional Himalayan cultures and admire majestic peaks such as Mount Cho Oyu, Mount Ama Dablam, and Mount Pumori at the same time.

Best season: The best season for taking a mountain flight tour in Nepal is in autumn (September to November) and spring (February to April). The weather is stable and the skies are clear during this time.

Insider’s Tip: Some companies have started offsetting their carbon emissions during mountain flights. So, pick out operators who can help you reduce the environmental impacts of such flights.

Wildlife safaris in Nepal offer thrilling encounters with diverse wildlife in stunning natural settings. Popular destinations include Chitwan National Park, home to the endangered Bengal tiger and one-horned rhinoceros, and Bardia National Park, known for its pristine wilderness and wildlife. These safaris provide a unique opportunity to spot rare species, birdwatch, and enjoy boat rides. As part of fun things to do in Nepal, these safaris are an unforgettable way to explore the country's rich biodiversity and natural beauty.

Top destinations:

• Chitwan National Park: Chitwan National Park, the first national park in Nepal, is a must-see destination in Nepal. This is one of the most naturally beautiful places in Nepal and covers almost 932 square kilometers. More than 160 species of migratory birds call the park their home, as do one-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers, bears, crocodiles, and Asian elephants. The most common bird sightings include kingfishers, paradise flycatchers, egrets, and Brahminy ducks.
• Bardiya National Park: Bardiya National Park is the largest wilderness area in the Terai plains. The park covers about 968 square kilometers of grasslands and sal forests and is famous for being one of the biggest stretches of tiger habitats in Asia. Apart from tigers, you can also check out 50 different species of mammals, such as one-horned rhinos and elephants, Gangetic dolphins, and more than 230 species of birds, such as Sarus cranes and the Bengal floricans.

Best season: The best months for a wildlife safari in Nepal are from October to March. During this period, the weather is dry, offering clear skies and better visibility for spotting wildlife.

Insider's Tip – The ideal way to tour the Chitwan National Park is to go on a three-day holiday and stay for two nights at one of the hotels in Chitwan. This also gives you a chance to explore a typical Tharu village while in Nepal.

Adventure sports are one of the top things to do in Nepal. The lake city of Pokhara attracts explorers, nature lovers, and adrenaline junkies with its endless offerings of adventure sports, such as paragliding, mountain biking, river rafting, canyoning, and bungee jumping. Pokhara is also a gateway to popular trekking routes such as Poonhill, Annapurna Base Camp, and Annapurna Circuit. If you want a more serene experience, you can go boating and strolling down the lakeside in Pokhara. Check out our adventure tours in Nepal.

Best season: The best time to go to Pokhara for adventure sports is between September and February. This covers the winter and pre-summer season in Nepal, which means the temperatures are more favorable. The skies are mostly clear, allowing for activities such as paragliding and boating.

Insider’s Tip: In addition to adventure sports, Pokhara is home to unique destinations such as the underground waterfall, Devi’s Fall, Bat Cave, and hidden hot springs near Tatopani.

Nepalese cuisine sometimes gets a bit of a hammering from those expecting the explosive spices of India. But come with an open mind, and the subtler flavors that typify the nation’s food will delight your taste buds. After you have had your fill of aromatic dal-bhat, be sure to taste tangy pani puri, the ubiquitous small street food. Then look out for places dishing up momo—Nepali dumplings or pancake-like chatamari. You will not regret it.

Top cuisine:

• Thakali cuisine: Thakali cuisine, originating from the Thak Khola region, offers a delicious blend of flavors, with dal, rice, vegetables, and meat, typically served in small portions. The dishes are aromatic, simple yet flavorful, providing a unique culinary experience in Nepal.
• Momo: Momo, a popular Nepali snack, is steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat or vegetables. Typically served with a tangy dipping sauce, these bite-sized treats are a must-try during a trip to Nepal, offering a tasty glimpse into the country's street food culture.
• Newari cuisine: Newari cuisine, from the Kathmandu Valley, offers a unique mix of spices, flavors, and textures. Signature dishes like momo, yomari, and choyala provide rich, hearty meals. Known for their intricate preparation, Newari meals showcase Nepal’s culinary diversity.

Best season: Sampling the cuisine is, of course, a year-round activity.

Insider’s Tip: Visit Newari restaurants, popularly known as Newari Khaja Ghar to try authentic cuisine, such as choila, chatamari, and sapu mhicha, of the local Newari people.

Visiting the Durbar Squares in Nepal is a great way to learn about the country’s rich history and culture. Kathmandu’s Basantapur Durbar Square showcases majestic palaces and temples, including the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, revealing Nepal’s royal past. Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its intricate Newar architecture and the stunning Hiranya Varna Mahavihar. Bhaktapur Durbar Square offers an authentic glimpse of medieval Nepal with its well-preserved structures, such as the 55-Window Palace. Gorkha Durbar, the birthplace of the Shah dynasty, adds to the historical journey, offering insights into the unification of Nepal.

Top destinations:

• Basantapur Durbar Square: Basantapur Durbar Square is the historical heart of Kathmandu, showcasing the grandeur of the Malla Dynasty. The square is home to the Kumari Ghar, where the living goddess resides, and the striking Taleju Temple. This area reflects the Malla rulers' architectural influence, with their intricate designs and cultural legacy still visible in the surrounding temples and palaces. The square’s vibrant atmosphere offers a deep dive into Nepal’s royal and artistic heritage, making it an essential stop for history and architecture lovers.
• Patan Durbar Square: Patan Durbar Square is renowned for its exquisite architecture and historical temples. Key highlights include the Mahabouddha Temple, the Golden Temple, and the intricately carved Palace Complex. Patan’s renowned craftsmanship makes it a must-visit for arts and culture enthusiasts.
• Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a well-preserved medieval treasure, featuring the 55-Window Palace, Vatsala Temple, and the majestic Nyatapola Temple. Its narrow alleys, vibrant squares, and unique sculptures provide a glimpse into traditional Newar life and architecture.
• Gorkha Durbar: Gorkha Durbar, located on a hilltop, offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The historic Gorkha Palace and the famous Bhimsen Tower stand out, reflecting the significance of the region in Nepal’s unification under King Prithvi Narayan Shah.

Best season: The best months to visit Durbar Squares in Nepal are from October to March. During this period, the weather is dry and cool, offering clear skies and comfortable temperatures for exploring historical sites.

Insider's Tip: Don’t miss out on the Patan Museum, which is housed in the Malla Royal Palace. The museum is home to more than 200 copper or gilt statues of Hindu or Buddhist deities. The main highlights of the museum are its courtyard (featuring a red-brick façade, wood carvings, a golden door, and a golden window) and the 12th-century seated Buddha.

Visiting temples and stupas in Nepal offers a spiritual journey through the country’s rich cultural and religious heritage. Pashupatinath, one of the holiest Hindu temples, draws pilgrims from around the world with its sacred river and intricate architecture. Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, offers panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley revered for its stupa and surrounding shrines. Other notable temples include Boudhanath Stupa, a center of Tibetan Buddhism, and the ancient temples in Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Exploring these sacred sites provides insight into Nepal’s diverse religious traditions.

Top attractions:

• Pashupatinath: The Pashupatinath Temple was constructed back in 1696 on the banks of the Bagmati River. It is the most important Hindu temple in Nepal. The temple is designed in a classic pagoda style, with a gilded rooftop, four silver-plated doors, and beautifully carved rafters. Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the temple premises, but a glimpse of Lord Shiva’s bull, Nandi, can be seen from the western entrance. Even if you are not allowed to enter the temple, its exteriors and surrounding areas are worth exploring. Watching the traders and priests go about their daily routines is considered to be an experience in itself. A visit to the Pashupatinath temple should be high on your list of things to do in Nepal.
• Muktinath: Muktinath Temple, located in the Mustang region of Nepal, is a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Situated at 3,710 meters, it is famous for its 108 water spouts, where pilgrims bathe in the holy water as part of a purification ritual. Muktinath is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is revered as a place of liberation (moksha). The temple's serene mountain backdrop adds to its spiritual significance, making it one of Nepal’s most important and unique Hindu temples.
• Swoyambhunath: Swoyambhunath offers stunning views of Kathmandu Valley. This ancient stupa, adorned with all-seeing eyes of Buddha, is a significant Buddhist site. Visitors can explore the surrounding shrines and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Kathmandu's hilltop temple.
• Boudhanath: Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest and most revered Tibetan Buddhist stupas in Nepal. Its enormous mandala and prayer flags create a spiritual ambiance. Pilgrims often circumambulate the stupa, making it a serene spot for reflection and meditation.

Best season: The best months to visit these sites are from October to March. During this period, Nepal experiences cooler, dry weather, offering comfortable temperatures for exploring these sacred sites. The clear skies also enhance the scenic views.

Insider’s Tip: The Aarti takes place every evening at 6 pm. It is an important Hindu ritual performed right in front of the temple.

White-water rafting in Nepal offers an exhilarating adventure through the country’s pristine rivers, surrounded by stunning landscapes. The Trishuli River is one of the most popular, offering thrilling rapids suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters. For more challenging experiences, the Bhote Koshi River, known for its steep rapids, is a top choice. The Kali Gandaki River also provides a unique combination of rapids and scenic beauty. Rafting in Nepal is one of the most exciting activities in Nepal, providing not only an adrenaline rush but also a chance to witness Nepal’s natural beauty up close.

Top destinations:

• Trishuli River: The Trishuli River is one of the most popular rivers for white-water rafting in Nepal. Its accessible location near Kathmandu offers rapids suitable for beginners and intermediates, combined with stunning views of lush forests and hills along the route.
• Bhote Koshi River: The Bhote Koshi River is renowned for its thrilling, high-intensity rapids, making it perfect for experienced rafters seeking adventure. The Bhote Koshi River offers one of the best and most exciting kayaking and rafting adventures in all of Asia. The river will treat you with steep gorges, cascading waterfalls, and lush terraced fields. You can also camp at the river banks and enjoy a meal under the sky.
• Kali Gandaki River: The Kali Gandaki River offers a thrilling rafting experience with varying rapids, ideal for intermediate to advanced rafters. Known for its beautiful scenery, the river flows through the deep Kali Gandaki Gorge, offering a unique combination of excitement and breathtaking landscapes.

Best season: The best months for white-water rafting trips in Nepal are from September to November and March to May. During these months, the weather is dry, with optimal water levels and mild temperatures for an enjoyable rafting experience.

Insider’s Tip: Since the Karnali River flows in Bardiya, it is a great spot for river rafting and kayaking trips.

There is no shortage of mountain bike tours in Kathmandu and Nepal. One of the best and most challenging biking excursions can be found in Shivapuri National Park. The dirt roads that start off at the Budhanilkantha entrance are hardly ever used, and the challenging patches in between simply make riding all the more exciting. Those searching for easier options can explore the Godavari, Bungamati, and Chapagaun roads, which are known for their serene beauty and easy trails. Another popular mountain biking tour is from Kathmandu to Nagarkot and back. If you're looking for a real challenge, do the Annapurna Circuit on a mountain bike.

Top routes:

• Annapurna Circuit: The Annapurna Circuit is one of Nepal's most iconic mountain biking routes. Riders experience stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, diverse landscapes, and charming villages like Manang, along with thrilling descents and challenging terrain.
  
• Manaslu Circuit: The Manaslu Circuit offers an adventurous mountain biking experience with rugged trails, dramatic landscapes, and views of the Manaslu range. Highlights include crossing the Larkya La Pass, lush forests, and remote villages, making it a challenging yet rewarding route.
• Kathmandu Valley: Kathmandu Valley offers a mix of urban and rural biking adventures. Riders explore ancient temples, monasteries, and scenic countryside with trails around Shivapuri, Nagarkot, and Bhaktapur. The route combines cultural heritage with natural beauty, perfect for all skill levels.

Best season: The best months for mountain biking in Nepal are from September to November and March to May. These months offer mild weather, clear skies, and ideal trail conditions, providing an optimal riding experience.

Insider's Tip – You might want to explore the Dakshinkali road biking option as well. The area puts together an uphill ride with beautiful cultural attractions all around.

With a calendar jam-packed with festivals, it can seem like every day is a holiday in Nepal. The colorful festivals are one of the most special things in Nepal. Marking important Buddhist, Hindu, and animist rituals, these festivities offer a magical insight into Nepal’s cultures. Spanning eight days, September’s Indra Jatra is perhaps the biggest. You can expect a kaleidoscope of colorfully dressed dancers on Kathmandu’s streets, all moving to the heavy beat of drums. Meanwhile, Bisket Jatra sees the air of Bhaktapur, a city of temples filled with mouth-watering aromas. Dashain and Tihar are the two major festivals of Nepal, a majority Hindu nation. The entire country adopts a festive atmosphere during these two festivals.

Top festivals:

• Dashain: Dashain is Nepal's most significant Hindu festival, celebrated to honor the goddess Durga. It marks the victory of good over evil. The festival spans 15 days, featuring rituals like tika (blessings), family reunions, and animal sacrifices. Dashain signifies renewal, prosperity, and protection, symbolizing strength and courage.
• Tihar: Tihar, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of Nepal’s most vibrant celebrations. It honors animals like crows, dogs, and cows. The festival also celebrates the goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth, by lighting oil lamps and candles. These illuminate homes and streets, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and welcoming prosperity into every household.
• Indrajatra: Indrajatra is a vibrant Newari festival celebrated in Kathmandu, honoring Lord Indra, the god of rain. It includes grand processions, the chariot festival of the living goddess Kumari, and traditional dances. The festival is marked by the raising of the "Yosin" (a ceremonial flag), celebrating the harvest and praying for prosperity.
• Shivaratri: Shivaratri, the Night of Lord Shiva, is a major Hindu festival observed in honor of Lord Shiva. Devotees fast, chant mantras, and stay awake throughout the night in temples, especially at Pashupatinath. It symbolizes spiritual awakening, devotion, and the power of Lord Shiva, who represents both destruction and regeneration.

Best season: Plan your trip to Nepal in September and October as it hosts its main festivals, Dashain and Tihar.

Insider’s Tip: If you want to take part in Nepali festivals, visit in March. This is when the festival of colors, Holi, takes place.

Lumbini is a must-visit destination in Nepal for those seeking spiritual tranquility. At the Maya Devi Temple, you can see the sacred marker of Buddha’s birth. Visitors can explore the peaceful gardens, ancient ruins, and various international monasteries that reflect different Buddhist traditions. Activities in Lumbini include meditating in the serene surroundings, visiting the Lumbini Museum to learn about Buddha’s life, and taking a walk around the Sacred Garden, where you can reflect on the teachings of Buddhism.

Best season: The best months to visit Lumbini are from October to March. During this period, the weather is cooler and dry, providing comfortable temperatures for exploring the sacred sites and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Exploring local art in Nepal offers a unique glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage. Mithila art, originating from the Terai region, is characterized by vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and themes depicting daily life, nature, and mythology. Pottery, another prominent art form, is prevalent in areas like Bhaktapur, where traditional clay sculptures and handcrafted items are created. Local artisans preserve these ancient crafts, offering visitors the chance to purchase authentic souvenirs while supporting Nepal’s rich artistic traditions. These art forms reflect the deep cultural roots and creativity of the Nepalese people.

Top destinations:

• Bhaktapur: Bhaktapur’s pottery is an ancient craft, with artisans using traditional methods passed down through generations. The city's pottery squares are filled with colorful handmade clay items like pots, vases, and decorative tiles. Visitors can witness and participate in the entire process, from molding to firing in large outdoor kilns, offering a deeper appreciation of the craftsmanship and heritage behind these works of art.
• Kathmandu: Thanka art in Kathmandu represents intricate Buddhist paintings made on cotton or silk, often depicting mandalas, deities, and scenes from Buddha's life. These masterpieces are highly detailed and crafted with symbolic colors and precision. Visitors can not only view these sacred artworks at monasteries like Swayambhunath but also visit local workshops where artists teach the techniques and spiritual significance behind each painting, offering a truly immersive experience.
• Patan: Patan is renowned for its exquisite wooden crafts and intricate art. Visitors can admire beautifully carved windows, doors, and temple decorations that reflect centuries-old craftsmanship. Exploring local workshops offers a hands-on experience, allowing travelers to witness artisans skillfully creating detailed wooden masterpieces, preserving Patan's rich cultural and artistic heritage.
• Janakpur: Janakpur is the heart of Mithila art, a traditional form characterized by its unique use of geometric patterns, vibrant colors, and cultural symbolism. This art often illustrates mythological tales, folklore, and religious themes. Visitors can explore Janakpur’s art galleries and interact with local artists who continue to keep this centuries-old tradition alive, especially during festivals like the annual Mithila Painting Festival.

Best season: There is never a bad time to explore the local art in Nepal.

Insider's Tip: The Seti River kayaking tour is perfect for kayakers looking to brush up on their kayaking skills before challenging the more dominant and difficult Himalayan rivers.

Shopping in Nepal is a delightful experience, offering a range of unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Top shopping destinations include Thamel in Kathmandu, where you can find pashmina shawls, prayer wheels, and handmade jewelry. Bhaktapur is known for its traditional pottery, while Janakpur offers vibrant Mithila art. For something truly unique, visit local markets for handmade paper products or Tibetan-style thankas. These crafts reflect Nepal’s rich culture and make for memorable, authentic souvenirs from your trip.

Best season: Shopping is a year-round activity.

Visiting tea plantations in Nepal is a serene and rewarding experience, offering beautiful landscapes and insights into local tea production. In regions like Ilam, Dhankuta, and the Annapurna hills, you can explore vast tea gardens, learn about tea processing, and enjoy tastings of unique varieties like Ilam tea. The stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and mountains add to the experience. A visit to these plantations is one of the must-do activities in Nepal, providing both relaxation and cultural immersion.

Best season: The best months to visit tea plantations in Nepal are from October to April. During this period, the weather is clear and cool, offering comfortable temperatures for exploring the plantations and enjoying breathtaking mountain views.

We tried our best to zoom in on the absolute best things to do in Nepal. However, please do not hesitate to write to us via the comments field if you think we missed out on something. If any of these activities tickle your fancy, book a customized trip to Nepal with our travel experts. We look forward to hearing from you.