Take China Group Tours in 2024 to enjoy a 30% discount compared to a private tour. Same Experience & Lowest Price!
Step 1. Check out the Top Destinations/Attractions of Nepal You’d like to Visit
Nepal, a land of diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers a multitude of captivating destinations for travelers. When you plan to travel to this mysterious land, there must be something that attract you. The following 4 destinations are the most popular tourist areas in Nepal. Kathmandu, Chitwan, and Lumbini are renowned UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and Pokhara stands as a world-class outdoor destination.
Kathmandu - Cultural Heart of Nepal
Location: In the central part of Nepal, surrounded by the Himalayas. It serves as the main entry point for international flights.
The vibrant capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu is renowned for its ancient temples, royal palaces, and rich history. You can explore the bustling streets of Thamel, visit the sacred sites of Pashupatinath and Boudhanath, and immerse yourself in the cultural wonders of 3 Durbar Squares.
Pokhara - Gateway to the Himalayas
Location: In central Nepal, about 200 kilometers west of Kathmandu.
Nestled in the lap of the Annapurna mountain range, Pokhara is a picturesque city that captivates visitors with its serene lakes, stunning views, and adventure opportunities. Taking a boat ride on Phewa Lake, paragliding or trekking, and admiring the panoramic sunrise from Sarangkot are highly recommended activities in Pokhara.
Chitwan - Wildlife Paradise & Safari Experiences
Location: In the southern region of Nepal, near the Indian border, about 150 kilometers southwest of Kathmandu.
If you're seeking wildlife encounters and jungle adventures, Chitwan National Park is the place to be. Don't miss the opportunity to embark on thrilling jungle safaris, where you can spot endangered species like the one-horned rhinoceros and Bengal tiger, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty of the Terai region.
Lumbini - Birthplace of Buddha
Location: In the western plains of Nepal, close to the Indian border, about 280 kilometers southwest of Kathmandu.
As the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Lumbini holds immense spiritual significance for Buddhists worldwide. Immerse yourself in the sacred ambiance of Lumbini, where as a visitor, you can explore the serene sacred garden, pay homage at the revered Maya Devi Temple, and unravel the mysteries of ancient monasteries that showcase the rich Buddhist heritage and architectural marvels.
Step 2. Clarify the Best Things You Want to Do in Nepal
Why you come to Nepal? For the world-class trekking routes, the outstanding Himalaya, or the UNESCO World Heritage Sites? Nepal offers a wide range of activities and experiences that cater to various interests. You can choose the following activities that interest you most.
Explore Cultural Heritage of Nepal Kingdom
If you are interested in history and culture, come to visit Kathmandu, please. Kathmandu is a treasure trove of ancient temples, palaces, and monuments that reflect Nepal's unique art, architecture, and religious traditions. Exploring the cultural heritage of Nepal provides an opportunity to delve into the country's vibrant history and experience its unique cultural treasures.
Here is a list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nepal:
- Kathmandu Durbar Square: Royal complex showcasing Malla and Shah dynasty architecture.
- Swayambhunath Stupa: Ancient Buddhist stupa with iconic Buddha eyes and panoramic views.
- Boudhanath Stupa: One of the world's largest Buddhist stupas, symbolizing peace and spirituality.
- Pashupatinath Temple: Sacred Hindu temple on the banks of the Bagmati River.
- Patan Durbar Square: Newari architectural marvel with palaces, temples, and statues.
- Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Well-preserved medieval city square reflecting Bhaktapur's history.
- Changu Narayan Temple: Ancient Hindu temple known for its intricate wood carvings.
- Lumbini: The birthplace of Lord Buddha, an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
Trekking and Hiking in the Himalayas
If you are a outdoor enthusiast, trekking in the Himalayas of Nepal is a dream come true. Nepal is a trekking paradise, offering numerous trails that cater to all levels of experience. You can experience the stunning landscapes, remote villages, and breathtaking mountain views during your hiking in Nepal.
Here is a list of popular trekking routes in Nepal, ranked from easy to difficult:
- Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek (Easy, 4-6 days)
- Langtang Valley Trek (Moderate, 7-10 days)
- Everest View Trek (Moderate, 7-9 days)
- Annapurna Base Camp Trek (Moderate to Difficult, 10-14 days)
- Manaslu Circuit Trek (Difficult, 14-18 days)
- Everest Base Camp Trek (Difficult, 12-16 days)
- Annapurna Circuit Trek (Difficult, 15-20 days)
Enjoy the Excitement of Adventure Sports
Nepal is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts, offering a wide range of thrilling activities amidst its stunning natural landscapes. From soaring mountains to raging rivers, Nepal provides the perfect backdrop for adrenaline-pumping adventure sports.
Here are some of the adventure sports you can enjoy in Nepal:
- Rafting and Kayaking (Chitwan): Navigate thrilling whitewater rapids and rivers.
- Paragliding (Pokhara): Soar through the skies and enjoy breathtaking views.
- Bungee Jumping: Take a thrilling leap from a high bungee jumping point.
- Mountain Biking: Embark on exhilarating cycling adventures through rugged terrains.
- Zip-lining (Pokhara): Experience the adrenaline rush of flying across scenic valleys.
- Rock Climbing: Scale vertical cliffs and test your climbing skills.
- Wildlife Safari (Chitwan and Bardia): Encounter diverse wildlife on exciting jungle safaris.
- Canyoning (Kathmandu and Chitwan): Descend waterfalls and explore narrow canyons in an adventurous way.
- Mountain Flight (Pokhara and Nagarkot): Take a scenic flight over the majestic Himalayas for a close-up view of the world's highest peaks.
Taste Nepalese Cuisine
Indulge in the flavors of Nepalese cuisine, which is a fusion of Tibetan, Indian, and Asian influences. It offers a diverse range of dishes that reflect the country's cultural and geographical diversity. Here are some popular Nepalese dishes you should try:
- Dal Bhat: Lentil soup with steamed rice, served with vegetable curry.
- Momos: Dumplings filled with vegetables or meat, served with spicy sauce.
- Thukpa: Noodle soup with vegetables and meat.
- Gorkhali Lamb: Tender lamb cooked in a rich tomato and onion gravy.
- Sel Roti: Sweet, deep-fried rice flour ring.
- Dhindo: Thick porridge-like dish made from buckwheat, millet, or corn flour.
- Aloo Tama: Spicy curry with bamboo shoots, potatoes, and black-eyed peas.
- Kwati: Mixed bean soup made with nine different beans and lentils.
- Yomari: Rice flour dumpling filled with molasses or sesame seeds and coconut.
- Choyela: Spicy marinated meat dish, often made with chicken or buffalo.
Check more details about Nepal Food >>
Step 3. Determine Your Travel Length to Nepal
How long to stay in Nepal? The ideal duration for a trip to Nepal depends on your interests, available time, and the specific places you want to visit. If you have limited time, 3-4 days would be suitable to explore Kathmandu and its surrounding attractions.
For a more comprehensive experience, allocating 7-10 days would allow you to fully venture in Nepal. This time-frame allows you to explore popular destinations like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan National Park, as well as engage in activities like trekking, wildlife safaris, and cultural sightseeing.
If you have even more time available, you can consider extending your trip to include a visit to neighboring countries like Bhutan or Tibet in China. This allows for a multi-destination tour, providing a broader perspective on the region's cultural and natural wonders.
3-4 Days Kathmandu Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu, check-in at the hotel.
Day 2: Explore Kathmandu Valley with visits to Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Patan Durbar Square.
Day 3: Continue the Kathmandu Valley tour with visits to Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Changu Narayan Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa.
Day 4: Depart from Kathmandu, check-out from the hotel, and transfer to the airport.
Not interested? Check more itineraries in Kathmandu Tour Package >>
8-10 Days Nepal Itinerary
Day 1-2: Explore the cultural sites of Kathmandu, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath, and Pashupatinath Temple.
Day 3-4: Take a scenic flight to Pokhara and enjoy boating on Phewa Lake. Visit the World Peace Pagoda and hike to the viewpoint for stunning mountain views.
Day 5-6: Go on a wildlife safari in Chitwan National Park. Enjoy activities like jungle walks, elephant bathing, and jeep safaris to spot wildlife.
Day 7: Return to Kathmandu, visit Patan Durbar Square, and explore the vibrant markets for shopping and souvenirs.
Not satisfied? Check more itineraries in Nepal Tour Packages >>
Itinerary with Multiple Destinations over 10 Days
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2-3: Explore the cultural sites of Kathmandu, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath, and Pashupatinath Temple.
Day 4: Fly to Bhutan
Day 5-7: Explore Bhutan’s top Attractions in Thimphu, Paro and Punakha.
Day 8: Fly back to Kathmandu.
Day 9: Kathmandu to Rasuwagadhi (the border crossing between Nepal and Tibet, China) by road.
Day 10-14: Tibet tour from Jilong to Lhasa by overland, visiting EBC in Tibet, Shigatse and Lhasa.
Check more tour packages for Tibet Nepal Tours, Tibet Nepal Bhutan Tours, and Nepal Bhutan Tours.
Step 4. Plan Your Travel Budget for Nepal
If you choose to travel independently as a backpacker, Nepal offers a range of affordable accommodation options such as hostels and guesthouses in popular travel destinations. Public transportation, including buses and local taxis, is relatively inexpensive and can take you to most destinations. Just ensure to negotiate the taxi fare in advance.
On the other hand, an organized group tour is recommended for a hassle-free and well-organized experience in Nepal. Group tours provide convenience, local expertise, and a more secure environment, particularly for travelers exploring an unfamiliar country. They offer a comprehensive package that covers transportation, accommodation, meals, and guided activities, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable trip overall.
Maximize your savings with a well-planned budget, check details about Nepal Trip Cost >>
Step 5. Choose the Best Time to Travel to Nepal
For trekking and outdoor adventure enthusiasts, the best months to trek in Nepal are October and November, the second best time is during spring (March to May). During these post-monsoon months, the weather is pleasant, and the air is clear, providing better views of the Himalayas. The trails are generally in good condition, and the weather is stable, making it an ideal time for trekking adventures.
If you are interested in experiencing Nepal's vibrant festivals, the country offers more than 300 festivals throughout the year, with over 50 legal holidays. When planning your Nepal tour, you can consult the Nepal festival calendar to align your visit with specific festivals that you wish to witness and participate in.
| Festival | Approximate Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Dashain | Late September to Early October | Nationwide |
| Holi | March (Full Moon Day) | Nationwide, especially vibrant in the Terai region and cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Bhaktapur |
| Maha Shivaratri | February or March | Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu, and major Shiva temples nationwide |
| Buddha Jayanti | April or May (Full Moon of the month of Baisakh) | Lumbini (the birthplace of Buddha), Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and other Buddhist monasteries |
| Teej | August or September | Nationwide, but especially significant at Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu |
| Indra Jatra | September | Kathmandu Durbar Square and surrounding areas of the Kathmandu Valley |
Please note that the monsoon season in Nepal occurs from June to early September and is characterized by heavy rains, landslides, and the presence of leeches on trails. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid traveling to Nepal during this time. However, neighboring Tibet is relatively more suitable for traveling during the monsoon season.
For more details about Nepal weather, please check Best Time to Visit Nepal >>
Step 6. Book Your Accommodation in Nepal in Advance
When planning a trip to Nepal, it is highly recommended to book your accommodation in advance. Nepal is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak seasons such as autumn, when trekkers flock to the Himalayas, and festivals draw crowds of visitors.
If you choose to book a tour package with a travel agency (such as Asia Odyssey), you don't have to worry about this issue. As a professional and experienced international travel agency, we will arrange suitable accommodation based on your needs and budget. We also provide additional services such as transportation, guides, and itinerary planning. This means you can save time and effort by not having to search and book accommodation yourself.
Check more details about Kathmandu Hotels and Nepal Food.
Step 7. Choose the Best Way to Reach Nepal
By Air - Kathmandu and Pokhara International Airport
The most common and convenient way to reach Nepal is by flying directly to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, the capital city. In the near future, you may be able to take a direct international flights to Pokhara.
Here are flight durations for major international air routes to Kathmandu:
| From | To | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Chengdu (China) | Pokhara | 3-4 hours |
| Chengdu (China) | Kathmandu | 2-2.5 hours |
| Lhasa (Tibet, China) | Kathmandu | 1-1.5 hours |
| Shanghai (China) | Kathmandu | 1-1.5 hours |
| Beijing (China) | Kathmandu | 4-5 hours |
| Dubai (United Arab Emirates) | Kathmandu | 4-5 hours |
| Delhi (India) | Kathmandu | 1-1.5 hours |
| Bangkok (Thailand) | Kathmandu | 3-4 hours |
| Doha (Qatar) | Kathmandu | 4-5 hours |
| Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) | Kathmandu | 4-5 hours |
By Overland
If you are in a neighboring country like India or Tibet (China), you can choose to travel to Nepal overland. However, overland travel can be time-consuming and may involve multiple modes of transportation, such as buses, trains, or private vehicles, depending on your starting point.
Sunauli (India) - Belahiya (Nepal) :
This crossing connects Nepal with the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. The travel time is around 2-3 hours by road. You can visit Lumbini after arriving in Belahiya with in 1 hour.
Jilong (Tibet,China) - Rasuwagadhi (Nepal) - Kathmandu
The overland route from Jilong to Rasuwagadhi and then to Kathmandu is the only way to travel between Nepal and Tibet by land. The journey covers a distance of approximately 120 kilometers and usually takes around 6-8 hours to complete.
Not clear? Please check more information in How to Get to Nepal >>
Step 8. Get Nepal Visa on Arrival
You can obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, as well as at certain land border crossings from India and China.
To get a Nepal visa on arrival, you need to prepare:
- Your passport that's valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry
- A completed visa application form (which can be obtained at the port of entry or online in advance)
- One passport-sized photo
- Visa fee in cash (preferably in USD or the equivalent currency)
Check more details about Nepal Visa >>
Step 9. Packing for Nepal
When packing for your trip to Nepal, consider the diverse activities and changing weather conditions. Here are essential items to pack:
- Footwear: Bring comfortable and sturdy shoes for trekking or walking in uneven terrain. Hiking boots are recommended for treks, while comfortable walking shoes are suitable for urban exploration.
- Clothing: Pack layered clothing to adapt to Nepal's changing weather. Include warm clothes for higher altitudes and cooler evenings. Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics are ideal for trekking. Don't forget a waterproof and windproof jacket or shell.
- Sun Protection: Nepal's sun can be intense, especially at higher altitudes. Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from UV rays.
- Insect Repellent: Nepal has its share of mosquitoes and insects. Bring insect repellent to protect yourself, especially if you're trekking or visiting rural areas.
- Trekking Gear: If you plan to trek, bring essential trekking gear such as a backpack, sleeping bag, and hiking poles. These items can be rented or purchased in Kathmandu or Pokhara if you prefer not to bring them.
- Power Adapters: Nepal uses a mix of plug types (Type C, D, and M). Bring a universal plug or the appropriate adapters to charge your electronic devices.
Step 10. Useful Nepal Travel Advice/Tips
Here are some additional tips and advice to enhance your Nepal travel experience:
- Learn Basic Nepali Phrases: Knowing a few basic Nepali phrases like "Namaste" (hello) and "Dhanyabad" (thank you) can go a long way in connecting with the friendly locals.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially at higher altitudes and during treks, to stay hydrated and prevent altitude sickness.
- Food and Water Safety: Stick to bottled or purified water and avoid street food or uncooked/raw food to prevent stomach issues. Remember to wash your hands frequently.
- Bargaining: Bargain at local markets for souvenirs and handicrafts. It's a common practice, so don't be afraid to negotiate for a better price.
- Dress Modestly: When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and respectfully. Cover your shoulders and knees, and remove your shoes when entering temples and monasteries.
- Road Safety: Be cautious on the roads, especially in busy cities. Consider hiring local drivers who are accustomed to challenging terrains if you plan to explore remote areas.
- Explore Beyond Kathmandu: While Kathmandu has its charm, venture beyond the capital to explore diverse cities like Pokhara, Chitwan, and Lumbini, as well as the breathtaking countryside.
- Get a Local SIM Card: Purchase a local SIM card for communication and internet access. This will come in handy when navigating, staying connected, and accessing online maps.
Overall, if you are not well-acquainted with Nepal or prefer a hassle-free travel experience, booking a group tour through a reputable travel agency is a wise choice. It will provide you with peace of mind, expert guidance, and the chance to focus on enjoying the wonders of Nepal.
Travel with AOT, Reach Nepal with Ease
Discover the magic of Nepal with Asia Odyssey Travel. With over a decade of expertise and deep-rooted local connections, we craft journeys that unveil the true essence of Nepal.
A long international flight, especially with stopovers, can be stressful with all the booking, planning and rushing between flights. That's where we come in!
We handle visas, connecting flights, and activities, so you can explore new destinations seamlessly. Plus, our expertise unlocks hidden stopover deals you might miss, maximizing your travel experience without the hassle. After all, it's a vacation-why stress yourself?
Let us be your guide, experience Nepal like never before with our exceptional service:
- Personalized Planning: Skip the research, let our experts craft your dream Nepal adventure
- Peace of Mind: Flights, hotels, visa? We handle it all!
- Hiccups? We're your 24/7 travel guardian.
- Time-saving: One-stop shop, say goodbye to endless booking hassles
- Journey with Awareness: AOT's local team ensures experiences that are culturally sensitive
- Travel like a Local: Insider tips, secret savings, and authentic experiences await with our local guides
Asia Odyssey Travel, Your Best Travel Mate. Turn Travel Dreams into Reality!
Contact us today. Your dream Nepal trip awaits!
If you have any questions about this article, please contact us by submitting the following form and we'll immediately get back to you.
Data in submission...
