The Himalayan country of Nepal is blessed. The south Asian country settled at the foothills of the mightiest mountains in the world is a mysterious land. Treasures of adventure, spirituality and experiences that you cherish for a lifetime lure you to come exploring. Vacations in Nepal offer a journey through mighty Himalayan peaks, ancient temples, adventure trails, unique wildlife, bustling markets, traditional villages and so much more.
With surprise and adventure at every corner, check out the best places to visit in Nepal.
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Mount Everest
Nepal is the home of the highest mountain on Earth, Mount Everest. When you need an answer for what to see in Nepal, then it’s undoubtedly the Mt Everest. Rising over 8,848 meters (29,028 feet) high, it lures travelers from all over the world. The trek is the biggest adventure of a lifetime. If the adventure it not your liking then enjoy a glimpse of the peak, seen on clear days from the hill town of Nagarkot.
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Kathmandu
The capital of Nepal, Kathmandu is not just a city, but an experience. The royal city for several centuries is definitely one of the best places to visit in Nepal. Kathmandu is home to 7 UNESCO world heritage sites, the largest number in a single city. Durbar Square, popular temples of Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath and Boudhanath and bazaars especially Thamel are the highlights. Wander the streets and you will be in awe of the mysterious charm.
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Chitwan National Park
Chitwan National Park is an experience a different side of Nepal. Blessed with a tropical monsoon climate, the area thrives in wildlife and is on UNESCO list of world cultural heritage sites. Safari in the park is available on foot and on elephants. Bengal tigers, rhinos, leopards, sloth bears, gaur (buffalo) deer, freshwater dolphins (Gangetic) and crocodiles inhabit the sanctuary. Moreover, Chitwan is a paradise for ornithologists with than 500 species of birds.
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Lumbini
Lumbini, the holy birthplace of Lord Buddha is one of the reasons to visit Nepal. Buddhist pilgrims from around the world come to pay homage to the land where Siddhartha Gautama entered the world. Named among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Lumbini is blessed with spiritual experience. The Maya Devi Temple is dedicated to Buddha’s mother. It is the holy site that contains an ancient stone relief from the 2nd century AD depicting Buddha’s birth.
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Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur, one of Nepal’s royal cities must be definitely put on your Nepal trip. The ‘City of Pilgrims’ was once an ancient trade route. Named as a UNESCO World heritage Site, Bhaktapur is ‘Living Heritage’. Start sightseeing from Durbar Square. Marvel at royal palaces, temples, Buddhist pagodas, ancient monuments, terracotta with carved wood columns, elaborate carvings, gold-plated roofs, and open courtyards. Walk through the by lanes, marvel at handicrafts and experience Nepal’s charm.
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Nagarkot
A simple farming town at frits glance but one of Nepal’s best places to visit, next we have Nagarkot. It one of the most beautiful places on Earth as one can revel in stunning views of the Himalayas. The sun’s first rays on Mt Everest is a view that you cherish for a lifetime. Nestled at 7,200 feet, the town is just now popular for the view but also serves as the base for mountaineers in Mt Everest.
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Trekking in Annapurna Circuit
The Annapurna Region is one of the most popular trekking regions in Nepal. Trekking options range from few days to a few weeks. The Annapurna Circuit takes about 21 days to complete and is incredibly popular among adventure enthusiasts. Declared a protected area in 1986, the circuit is blessed with dramatic contrasting view of the Nepalese countryside. The diverse cultures, people, houses, lifestyles, customs, and religion are equally interesting to explore.
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Sagarmatha National Park
Sagarmatha National Park is one of the best tourist places in Nepal. It is known for beauty, religious and cultural significance. Covering 443 square miles (1148 sq. km) the park features the tallest mountain peaks in the world, including Mount Everest. Sagarmatha is the habitat of many wild animals. Easily spotted animals include Himalayan tahr, ghoral, musk deer, black bears and snow leopards. Furthermore, 193 species of birds inhabit the park, including the unique snow pigeon.
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Patan (Lalitpur)
Patan is one of the deserving tourist attractions in Nepal. Also known as Lalitpur that translates to “City of Beauty” in Sanskrit, the ancient town has a unique charm. Explore 55 major temples, 136 Buddhist monasteries, Durbar squares and other ancient monuments at the pre-historic city. Do not miss to marvel at the amazing Thanka painters creating masterpieces, shop for fine metal works, attend the temple festivals, delight in the mouthwatering cuisine, and pamper in the hospitality.
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Janakpur
Janakpur shares roots with ancient Hinduism. It is mentioned in Hindu Mythology, Ramayana, as the birthplace of the Hindu goddess Sita. It is one of the best places to visit in Nepal, as it merges history, spirituality and other amazing experiences. Get blessing as the Sita Temple or Janaki Mandir which is also one of the best examples of Nepal of Moghul architecture. Also get blessings at Vivaha Mandap, Laxman Temple, Ram Temple, Gangasagar Lake, and Dugdhmati River.
Rekha Bisht is a travel enthusiast who loves to visit the most popular as well as offbeat places of the world. She loves to share her travel experiences with fellow travelers. For planning memorable holidays in India or any international trip, you follow her write-ups.
