26 Top Rated Tourist Places In Nepal

Nepal is blessed with beautiful landscapes, stunning mountain peaks, spellbinding lakes, and an adventure experience like seldom before. Many travel experts in the industry call it, ‘the Amazon of Asia,’ owing to its unique variety of species that are found here. It is the only country whose flag is not rectangular in shape. Quite a speculation, isn’t it? The country lies along the slopes of the Himalayan mountain ranges. A landlocked boundary space between India & China, it surely is the tourist’s playground. It is the only country to remain non-colonized. Keeping the facts aside for a while, let’s dive deeper to check out some of the best places to visit in Nepal.

26 Best Tourist Places To Visit In Nepal

Is Nepal worth visiting? Visiting Nepal alone is just not enough as there are many best things to do in Nepal. Here are some famous places in Nepal that can make each trip of yours a memorable one.

Kathmandu

Kathmandu, also spelled as Kantipur is the capital of Nepal and is located in the Bagmati Zone and is the gateway to tourism in Nepal. It is situated in a valley full of historic sites, ancient temples, shrines, golden pagodas and fascinating villages. One can find excellent trekking options, world’s tallest peaks, stunning Indo-Tibetan and Newari craftsmanship, UNESCO listed heritage landmarks and delicious food here. The three Durbar squares (Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Patan) along with the great stupa and monkey temple should keep you busy for the weekend. 

Pashupatinath Temple 

Pashupatinath temple also known as ‘The temple of Living Beings’ is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Thousands of devotees across the globe come to offer their prayers and seek blessings from him. The pagoda architect is the main highlight of this temple. The double level roofs of the temple are constructed with gold and the four main doors are made of silver. The western door has a statue of a huge bull decorated in gold. This temple was declared as a World Heritage Site in 1979. There are 358 steps to reach to the top of the temple. The dress code inside the temple is strictly formal and no photography is allowed. This is undoubtedly one of the famous Nepal tourism places to visit.

Bhaktapur

Bhaktapur also known as Bhadgaun is a living museum, with temples on every corner, bustling street markets, arts and crafts being produced wherever you look. If you’re keen in Nepali culture and heritage, this is one of the top places to visit in Nepal. Popular for its religious, culture and historical heritage this city is also rich in ancient arts, religious values, cultural traditions, architectural masterpieces and ancient sculptures. Moreover, the city is also very famous to be known as the city of Gods. It has many other popular attractions like the 55 Window Palace, Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Pottery Square. A visit to all these beautiful places in Nepal for tourism makes it well worth the visit.  

Everest Base Camp 

It goes without saying that the highest mountain peak in the world is Mount Everest which lies in Nepal. It takes about two months for experienced mountaineers to reach the peak.  However, most of us can’t summit the mighty peak, so reaching the base camp in itself is a great achievement. A lot of people (over 30,000 per year) trek and reach the Everest South Base Camp that lies in the Khumbu region of Nepal. The path is full of perils and once you reach the altitude of 5,364 meters, it offers mesmerizing views of the magnificent Mount Everest and all the other adjoining mountains. 

It is one of the most sought treks by trekkers throughout the world despite being one of the most difficult. Helicopter services are also available until the foot of base camp. To get a clear view of Mount Everest, you must visit between October and April. Close to the base camp, Kala Patthar is another famous viewpoint that offers similar views. 

Kala Patthar 

Kala Patthar is located on the south ridge of Pumori in the Nepali Himalayas above Gorakshep. The climb to Kala Patthar is very famous with trekkers in the region of Mount Everest as it provides the most accessible close-up view of Everest. The views of Everest, Nuptse and Changtse are spectacular from here and hikers can get glimpses of the northern flank and summit of Lhotse. The world’s highest webcam, Mount Everest webcam, was located here. Kala Patthar is considered the highest altitude which needs a climbing permit to reach the top. Permits can be obtained in Kathmandu from the Nepal Mountaineering Association.

Chitwan National Park 

Chitwan National Park, situated at the foot of the Himalayas is Nepal’s first National Park. It has a rich flora and fauna and is home to one of the last populations of single horned Asiatic Rhinoceros and also one of the last species of Bengal Tigers. The park is also home to more than 50 mammal species, around 545 bird species, and 55 amphibians and reptiles. The other attractions of this part are, a museum, conservation center, elephant breeding center and elephant safari. Visitors can also explore the park through jungle treks and canoe rides. This is your best chance to get close to the exotic wildlife as Chitwan National Park is one of the best wildlife-viewing destinations in Asia.

International Mountain Museum (IMM) 

This museum located in Pokhara, Nepal has more than 100,000 domestic and international tourists visiting the International Mountain Museum (IMM) every year. IMM records documents and exhibits the complete past and present developments related to mountain and mountaineering across the world. The museum has three main exhibition halls i.e., Hall of Great Himalayas, Hall of Fame and Hall of World Mountains. Museum is a major tourist place in Nepal. However, the second hall is the Hall of World Mountains where visitors are thoroughly introduced to the national and international mountains, historical backgrounds, highest peaks, and detailed Information of all 14 peaks over 8 thousand meters of height and their photographs are available in this area. 

Durbar Square

The famous three Durbar Squares in Nepal: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square and Bhaktapur Durbar Square are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

•Kathmandu Durbar Square is located opposite to the old royal palace of the former Kathmandu Kingdom and is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on all days. 

•Patan Durbar Square is located at the center of the city of Lalitpur in Nepal and is open from 10: 00 am to 10:00 pm on all days.

•Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a former royal palace complex located in Bhaktapur, Nepal and is open 24 hours on all days.

The winner of the best Durbar Square in the Kathmandu Valley is Bhaktapur Durbar Square and these durbars are undoubtedly the most beautiful places to visit in Nepal. 

Movie Garden

Nepal’s best kept secret, Pokhara Movie Garden was created for a unique experience of the greatest films of the last 50 years. This little outdoor cinema is a place where you can watch movies right in the jungle. The location is hidden away at the jungle’s edge in North Lakeside with a panoramic backdrop of Fewa Lake. The air seating are half covered and half open and keeps the show on no matter what the weather is. They provide cushions and blankets for your comfort and freshly popped popcorn. Pizza and drinks are also available for purchase. Get there early if you want a lower seat, else it’s a bit of a climb to the back stalls. Though you have been to many movie theaters, none can match the charm and experience at Movie Garden.

Hiranya Varna Mahavihar

Hiraṇya varṇa Mahāvihāra, also known as Kwa Bahain formally called The Golden Temple with literal meaning “Gold-colored Great Monastery”, is a historical vihara (Buddhist monastery) situated in Patan, Nepal. The main gate is made of stone and has a pair of stone lions, one male and another female. The courtyard is mesmerizing and is in a rectangular space. This historic temple has lot of artistic value, great atmosphere and tranquil environment. The carvings and stone sculptures are gorgeous and is a visual treat. The temple inside is quaint, quiet, and peaceful. This is one of the must visit Nepal tourist places if you are in and around the Patan area. Temple opens from 5:00 am to 5:00 pm on all days.

Barun Valley

If you are in Barun Valley, you could explore a large area of green meadows covered with flowers in various colors on one hand, and on the other, you will find mighty snow-sunned mountain peaks with waterfalls. The place is so stunning, it will leave you spellbound and you feel like you are in paradise, making it one of the best tourist places to visit in Nepal. Barun Valley also has a National Park with a diverse array of wildlife. The area around the incredible valley does not have any human habitation and is only visited by trekkers en route to Makalu Base Camp. Best time to visit this valley is between March to May and September to November.

Siddha Gufa

Most of the places listed here require you to trek and reach high altitudes, however, Siddha Gufa requires you to go underground. This is the largest cave in Nepal and can be reached either from Bandipur or from Bimalnagar. Once you go inside the cave, you will witness amazing topography consisting of limestone formations. It is very dark inside with hardly any sunlight, so suggest you carry torches that will help you look around and find your way. The entire experience in Nepal most beautiful place will give you the feel of a real explorer.

Langtang National Park

The Langtang region lies in the Rasuwa district of the Bagmati Province in Nepal and is situated 80 kilometers north of the Kathmandu Valley and borders Tibet. The most visited places near Langtang National Park are temples and monasteries. The Langtang Valley has been a favorite trekking spot due to its expansive views, interesting Tamang culture, and easy access from Kathmandu. There are three treks in Langtang National Park: Langtang Valley, Helambu and Gosaikunda. These treks are filled with forest trails, mountain hikes, village visits and abundance of scenic beauty. The routes are quite steep and you would require an average level of physical fitness to finish the entire trek. The seasons of autumn and spring are considered to be the best time to visit Langtang National Park. This should undoubtedly be a must visit place while exploring Nepal.

Poon Hill

Poon Hill is popular among trekkers as the trek takes about 5 to 6 days. The highest elevation is 3210m at the peak of the hill and offers amazing views of some of the highest Himalayan peaks. Apart from the mountains, on the path, you can expect to see Rhododendron trees, waterfalls and typical Nepali villages. The advantage of the trek on this hill is the availability of lodges throughout the path, and you won’t have to deal with issues like altitude sickness due to the low elevation. There are several ways to reach Poon Hill from Kathmandu. From Kathmandu you will be driving or flying to Pokhara. From Pokhara you will be driving to Nayapul. Your trekking journey starts from Nayapul. This is one of the top places to visit in Nepal for travelers looking for adventure and fun.

Shey Phoksundo Lake

Shey Phoksundo Lake, Nepal’s second deepest lake will lead you to another world. However, swimming is prohibited in this lake. Though the lake is known for its deep aquamarine blue color, it changes its color depending on the amount of light falling on it. Its color changes from deep green to silver, to its original bluish grey color. Surprisingly, the lake water doesn’t freeze during the winters as per the natives of Dolpo. One could also view rivers and steep waterfalls, rocky cliffs, pine forests and animals like musk deer, blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, etc., within the Shey Phoksundo National Park. You can even stay in accommodation in the village, from where you can rise up to view a stunning sunrise atop the mountains. Do not miss to explore the many monasteries and stupas in the adjourning area.

Boudhanath Stupa

Bouddha also well known as Boudhanath is a stupa in Kathmandu and should be included in your tour itinerary. This place is located about 11 kms from the center and northeastern outskirts of Kathmandu. Its huge mandala makes it one of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal and the world. For hundreds of years, the Boudhanath Stupa has stood as a beacon of Buddhist belief and as a giant mandala of peace and beauty in the surrounding town. Built during the 14th century, this huge meditative monument is said to have been created just after the passing of Buddha. Boudha Stupa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with Swayambhu and is one of the best places to visit in Nepal.

Nagarkot Panoramic Hiking Trail

Nagarkot is a great point to trek for panoramic views and to catch incredible sunrises. The Nagarkot Panoramic Hiking Trail is a 12 km hike near the community of Nagarkot and it’s an easy trek, although you need a basic level of fitness but don’t need to be a seasoned trekker. There are a lot of roads and villages to pass through but the Forest part and the views of the countryside are breathtaking. The best way to get to the start of the trek point is by taxi from the hotel. Proper walking shoes are recommended as the track can get quite slippery during rains. Bring your own food and water as there are no shops on the way. Panoramic hiking trail in Nagarkot is highly recommended for your trip to Nepal.

Chandragiri Hill 

Chandragiri Hills is located 2551 meters above sea level on the southwest side of Kathmandu valley. This place gives an excellent panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges from Mount Annapurna on the West to Mount Everest on the East making it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Nepal. To reach the top of the hill, one can opt for a cable car ride, a drive uphill, or hike in the Chandragiri hills which is the most popular of all means. The ride up in the cable car is exhilarating and even more rewarding as one will be able to see the Himalayas, including Everest.

The best time to explore and visit Chandragiri is during the pleasant weather which happens to be during the spring and fall season. During the winter season one can experience snowfall as well. Chandragiri is for sure the best place to enjoy the view of Kathmandu valley.

Garden of Dreams

Garden of Dreams or the Garden of Six Seasons is located in the entrance point of a tourist hub, Thamel within the Kaiser Mahal complex. It is a neo-classical garden of Nepal which was built in 1920. This complex garden structure in the heart of Kathmandu is a popular spot for tourists as it offers a very beautiful ambiance with formal European style. The area comprises verandas, pavilions, amphitheater, ponds and pergolas. The details inside the Garden of Dreams in its premises are mind-blowing. The fountains and ponds, inscriptions, and pavilions are worth some beautiful moments. Garden of dreams, as the name suggests, is truly a divine garden that has mind-blowing beauty. 

Swayambhunath Stupa

Amongst the travelers there is always a query, is Nepal a good place to visit, and this place proves it all as it is one of the best places to visit in Nepal. The stupa is the oldest in Nepal and has various shrines, temples and monasteries on its premises. Each of the temples are richly decorated with gold and vibrant prayer flags around the colorful temple. Swayambhu means “self-existent one” and is believed to have been in use since the 5th century.

Swayambhunath in Kathmandu is also called the ‘Monkey Temple’, as a group of monkeys lived in the northwest part of the temple complex for centuries. There are around 365 steps to reach the top of the temple and once you climb the stairway, you’ll see the lightning bolt just in front of the stupa. It’s so peaceful and magical up here, you’ll see the lower dome, crafted with chains of prayer wheels. 

Phewa Lake 

Phewa Lake in Nepal formerly called Baidam Tal is located in the south of the Pokhara Valley. The major feature of this freshwater lake is the reflection of mount Machhapuchhre and other mountain peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. You can go boating, hiking or cycling near the lake. You can even experience a thrilling paragliding, overseeing the crystal clear Fewa Lake from a high altitude. Phewa lake and water sports are one of the major tourist attractions of Pokhara city and has been developed into a tourist destination with hotels, restaurants and bars catering to the tourists.

Sagarmatha National Park

Sagarmatha National Park in the north eastern part of Nepal covers a wide area with altitudes ranging from nearly 3000m to as high as 8000m. Hence, this beautiful park has numerous forms of flora. It is covered by the dense forests in the lower regions, mosses and lichens in the high altitudes and with zero vegetation in the highest areas. This place in Nepal is known as the home to some of the tallest peaks of the world, including Mount Everest. You can also experience the Gokyo Lakes that lie inside the park at an altitude of around 5000 m. Several species of animals and birds also throng inside the park making it an excellent place for photographers. A must visit place for its picturesque topography. 

Thamel

In the heart of Kathmandu city is Thamel, a buzzing place which is the center of Kathmandu’s nightlife. It is one of the hottest spots for tourists in this valley. This place is best for a chill hangout and you can find good food and drinks here. Thamel is the place to go if you want to shop in interesting shops and eat at some fine restaurants. It’s a hub for trekkers who want to buy outfits to wear for mountain trekking. If you are a night person and like handicrafts, beads and singing bowls, this is the place to go. 

Sarangkot 

Sarangkot is known for panoramic Himalayan views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna and Manaslu. The way the white cloud appears below you is breathtaking. Travelers get incredible views and a taste of local village life too. On clear days one can have an awesome view of the mountain range and can also experience stunning sunrises. Sarangkot is declared as one of the best paragliding locations in the world. You could rent a motorbike to go there or just walk up trekking. From here one can get an excellent view of the Phewa Lake.

Tilicho Lake

This is another high altitude lake in Nepal, Tilicho Lake is most widely visited by trekkers trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp. Standing at an elevation of 4919m above sea level, the crystal clear lake is surrounded by glaciers and mountains varying in colors of brown and white. Muktinath, Nilgiri, Khangsar and Tilicho peak surely makes for a sight to enjoy.

Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna Base Camp is at a height of 13,550 feet in the northern region of Nepal. This trek covers about 110kms and takes about 11 days to trek. Trekking starts from Banthanti and ends at Annapurna Base Camp. The entire trek offers a stunning opportunity to relish the breathtaking heights of giant Himalayan ranges. The mountain ranges take you through oak, pine, rhododendron, lush green rice fields and carpet of snow-capped valleys. You’ll be walking across the Modi river and experience some of the massive peaks which are of 7000-8000m. 

Most Beautiful Waterfalls To Vist In Nepal

The most beautiful waterfalls to visit in Nepal are Pachal Waterfall, Rupse Waterfall, Pokali Waterfall, Bhotekoshi Waterfall and Annapurna Waterfall.

• The Pachal waterfall is one of the highest waterfalls located in the Kalikot district of Karnali state Nepal.
• The Rupse Waterfall is the highlight attraction of Myagdi district of Nepal. The water falls from an altitude of 300 meters and is considered one of the most beautiful natural wonders of Nepal.
• The Pokali waterfall is the second highest waterfall after the Pachal, falling from a height of 130 meters.
• The Bhotekoshi waterfall is a paradise to experience as you can go rafting and canoeing amidst nature.
• The Annapurna roadside waterfall offers a thrilling hike and it is one of the famous trails in the world and gives a panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges.

As the old saying goes, most big surprises come in small packages. The country delivers bliss like no other with regards to nature and adventure while letting the fanatic foodies decide their course of meals. Set course today and feel the precious piece of nature while exploring Nepal. Exploring Nepal once is definitely not enough!