Nepal is no wonder a diverse country that attracts many visitors yearly. Some are lured by the majestic Himalayas whereas others are fascinated by the culture and the famous city of Kathmandu, and yet some hoping to find some sort of spiritual awakening as well. Here we will discuss the major attractions of Nepal. With the home of the world’s highest peak, Everest Nepal can be a life-changing experience to an adventure, as well as a cultural eye-opener to those who are seeking a visit to Nepal. With the rich ancient cultures, the land of Nepal is a land of discovery and unique experience. For those individuals who value an experience that is genuine and mesmerizing, Nepal is the ideal destination. The sheer diversity of Nepal originates from the steamy jungle and Terai to the peaks of the world’s highest mountains.
Trekking, mountaineering, rafting, and other spectacular activities are what Nepal is famous for in the world. Activities such as Elephant Polo and a mountain flight through the Himalayas show that in Nepal, the only boundary is your imagination. Besides, Nepal is rich in diverse flora and fauna with 15 national parks and wildlife reserves. Here, one can spot the rare Asiatic rhinoceros and the Royal Bengal Tiger. Similarly, the famous culture and tradition, ancient art, and architecture have been the greatest attractions of Nepal. Also, The people with warm hospitality and various ethnic groups with their way of life lining with the simplicity of peace and harmony is what makes it different from the rest of the world.
The Lumbini in Nepal is the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Therefore, the country has other important religious and pilgrimage sites throughout the country for the followers of various sects and religions.
Here is the list of Major Attractions of Nepal
Mount Everest Climbing
When it is about exploring Nepal, how can one miss out on Mt. Everest.?
Mount Everest is the Earth’s highest mountain peak that lies in the Mahalangur Himal sub-range of the Himalayas in southern Asia. It is one of the major attractions of Nepal. At 8,848 meters (29,029 feet) Mt. Everest is located on the border between Nepal and Tibet, an autonomous region of China. Mount Everest was first ascended by Sir Edmund Hillary and his guide Tenzing Norgay Sherpa in the year 1953. Everest summit is one of the most popular adventures in Nepal. Every Year, hundreds of climbers make their way to this highest peak. It has been a dream destination for most climbers and also a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those who have completed the summit.
People always seek something more exciting and thrilling in their adventure. For those people, climbing Everest. Despite the dangerous route and high risk, the summit of Mt. Everest is a high success adventure but needs a month of physical preparation and a week of acclimatization regarding the altitudes and climate. Normally, it can take about 2 months for the Everest summit and spring and autumn could be the best season for the summit of Everest.
Mera Peak Climbing
If you want to explore the highest peak climbing in Nepal then, Mera peak climbing is one of them. Permitted by NMA (Nepal Mountaineering Association), this peak has been popular among climbers and adventure lovers. Mera Peak is located close to the southeast of Island Peak in the Everest region and is one of the popular attractions of Nepal. Letting you witness the amazing scenario of the Himalayan region of Nepal, Mera peak climbing is one of the popular peaks climbing in Nepal.
The journey to peak climbing starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. Then the journey leads through an incredibly remote Hinku village. Peak climbing is a combination of three separate mountains, i.e. North Mera peak, South Mera peak, and Central Mera peak in the Khumbu region. The highest summit of Mear peak is at 6476m. This is a high altitude for those who are new to this journey.
On the other hand, the journey offers an embracing view of dense Rhododendron forests, beautiful green terraced fields, rushing streams. Also, the backdrops of the highest Mountains in the world make the trip more amazing. Similarly, the leak climbing showcases the view of over 8000m mountains such as Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt Cho Oyu, Mt. Makalu.
Everest Base Camp Trek
One of the most splendid treks that you wander around the bar camp of the world’s highest peak. One of the major attractions of Nepal. Everyone is familiar with the world’s highest peak, Everest, however very few have got to experience this peak very closely either by the method of a summit or just by visiting its base camp. Either way, the splendid view is on your way. The base camp trek to Everest is quite the classic trek. With the jaw-dropping scenario of natural landscapes as well as the unique cultural exploration, get ready to soak into the beauty of the Himalayas.
At an elevation of 5600m, the base camp trek offers you one of the most treasured, breathtaking views of cliffs, towering Glaciers, and forested hills. Apart from this cultural exploration is another major attraction of this bar camp trek. Trekking to the base camp of Everest is the combination of a challenging trek to Everest panorama, Gokyo lake, Everest Basecamp, and Everest three high passes. The average day for the trek to Everest base camp is around 15 days. It may take longer or shorter depending upon the itinerary. The trek passes through several places in the Himalayan region such as Lukla, Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorakshep, and finally to the highest summit at Kala Patthar (5400m). From here, àone can have a stunning view of Annapurna, Makalu, Nuptse, Pumori.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Base camp trek is one of Nepal’s most classic short treks. Taking you to the foot of some of the tallest mountains in the world, the trek showcases the close-up view of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre. Trekking to the base camp of Annapurna leads you to one of the remote traditional villages. With the scenery of snow-covered white mountains and a delightful blend of cultures, the Annapurna Base Camp trek has become by far one of the major attractions of Nepal.
The base camp to Annapurna is a path to the stunning grandstand of the extremely graceful peaks of the Annapurna mountain range. This trek is one of the most popular and most visited treks in Nepal. Likewise, the trek is a combination of an amazing walk through the diverse landscape, culture-quaint Gurung villages, and a wide variety of flora and fauna. Standing tall at 8091m, Mt. Annapurna is the 10th highest mountain in the world. The journey to the base camp of the world’s 10th highest peak at 4130m/13549ft, is one of the most popular walks on earth.
With the everlasting beauty of the crystal clear Himalayas, this trek is a popular choice among diverse outdoor enthusiasts.
The trek starts with a scenic drive from Pokhara in the foothills of the Annapurna and passes through charming villages of Magar and Gurung. The heartwarming scenario of Rhododendron woodland, welcoming villages, and majestic mountain landscapes in just 8 days of the journey are some of the most memorable journeys in the Himalayas.
Langtang Valley Trek
If you ever want to trek through the peaceful trail near the Kathmandu Valley, then Langtang valley takes you across fewer overfill routes. The southern border of Langtang valley trek lies 32km away from the capital. The Valley trek can be undertaken within a short period and the region is conserved as the Langtang national park with 1710sq.km of total area. The Valley trek is suitable for anyone of any age group who is willing to have an adventure in the Himalayas for the 1st time.
The stunning valley, with high mountain lake Gosaikumda at 4380m is what Langtang valley is famous for. The valley treks offers Langtang, Gosaikunda, and Helambu. Beginning at Syabrubesi, the trail passes through Kyanjin Gompa and Chandabari. Chandrababu is a remarkable place from where the view of games and Langtang II is visible. The trails run through rhododendron and bamboo forests, along side thundering waterfalls and stunning snow-capped mountains. The highest elevation of the trek is at 4,000 meters. Also, you can see the sunrise view from Tserko Ri at 5,000m if you want to explore higher and higher. Also, the diverse trek to the Langtang valley introduces you to the Buddhist culture of the Tamangs and the Sherpas people.
In addition to this, the trek takes you through the ancient monastery of Kyanjin Gompa, situated near Tserko. Apart from the view of embracing the Himalayas this trek even offers you cultural exploration. Besides, the view on this trek includes Dorje Lakpa (6,990m), Langtang Ri (6,370m), and Langtang Lirung (7,245m). On the other hand, the trek passes through Langtang National Park. The park reserved flora and fauna, yak pastures, and local cheese factories Himalayan pheasants, Himalayan deer, Himalayan bears, monkeys, and the elusive red panda. Covering all of these fantastic areas, it is certainly one of the best attractions in Nepal.
Durbar Squares of Kathmandu Valley
When it is about visiting the country’s capital, the must-not-miss place is Kathmandu Durbar square. Kathmandu Durbar Square, also known as Basantapur palace, is an old royal palace of the former Kathmandu Kingdom. The Durbar Square is a place with an ancient history and rich Nepali Art and architecture. The palace has various attractions sides such as fountains, ancient statues, small ponds, and a series of courtyards. Carrying its historical importance, the palace is located at the heart of Kathmandu. Kathmandu Durbar Square has more international visitors as well as national visitors as it is also one of the popular attractions of Nepal. There is a former Royal palace inside the complex of Durbar Square named “Hanuman Dhoka”. The Hanuman Dhoka is a place from where Malla King ruled over Kathmandu.
Kathmandu Durbar Square is a quivering public square that was once the royal residence. With the world’s highest concentrations of well-preserved ancient buildings, this place is now a museum. The shrine was damaged by the 2015 earthquakes however, there is still an array of architectural gems to see. The outer complex consists of countless pagoda-style temples with an exhaustively carved exterior crafted by Newar artists. The temples and crafts date back to the 16th century. The palace went under several changes and new architectural additions under the direction of the Malla Kings. The temples such as Jagannath Temple, Kotilingeshwara Mahadev, the Mahadeshwara Temple, and the magnificent Taleju Temple are built in the Newari architectural style.
Perhaps one of the preferred sites of this Durbar Square is the three-storied temple called Kumari Bahal. It was built by Jayaprakash Malla. With its most rare art and sculpture, the Durbar Square has been listed in the UNESCO listed world heritage site. Holding several important art and architecture, Kathmandu durbar square is one of the most visited heritage sites in Kathmandu.
Swayambhunath Stupa
Swayambhunath is one of the oldest temples inside Kathmandu Valley and among the focal attractions of Nepal. This temple is popular as the “Monkey Temple” since the 1970s. Overlooking most of the parts of the valley, the stupa stands tall at the hill giving visitors the panoramic view of the city. Similarly, the stupa is an indicator of faith and harmony for centuries. The glory of the Kathmandu Valley started from here.
On the hilltop 3km west of Kathmandu, the monkey temple is a pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The stupa is about 2000 years old and has numerous shrines and monasteries on its premises. The word Swayambhu means a self-existent one. The temple was dated back to 460 A.D by Mahadev. A large number of Buddhists, as well as Hindus, visit Swayambhunath. It is a holy shrine for both Hindus and Buddhists. People from all over gather here on the occasion of Buddha Jayanti. It is an icon featuring a stark white dome topped with a golden spire. Similarly, the stupa has Buddha’s eyes and eyebrows painted on it. It represents the all-seeing eyes of Buddha that are all-seeing and all-knowing.
This spiritual place of worship is an extraordinary experience of the mystical atmosphere by local devotees and pilgrims. Other attractions in this stupa include the gold-plated Vajra ‘thunderbolt’ on the east side, the Buddha statue on the west side, the Sleeping Buddha, and the Dewa Dharma Monastery as well the traditional Tibetan paintings. Similarly, one can have a stunning view of the Kathmandu Valley and surrounding Himalayas in case of clear weather.
Bouddhanath Stupa
At 8km east of Kathmandu, Boudhanath is another pilgrimage shrine for Buddhists. It is listed in the UNESCO World Heritage sites and is one of the most imposing landmarks in Kathmandu. The stupa is built in the shape of a Mandala design which is 36-meter-high. The stupa is massive and dominates the skyline in the area. With countless monasteries around it, Boudhanath is highly influenced by Tibetan culture and tradition.
The stupa was designed to replicate the Gyangtse of Tibet. It was renovated by Licchhavi rulers in the 8th century. The location of the stupa was once the ancient trade route to Tibet where the Tibetan merchants rested and offered prayers for many centuries. It is one of the major pilgrimage sites for Buddhists from all over the world. The all-seeing eyes of the Buddha symbolize awareness. Similarly, at ground level, there are a 147 inches brick wall and 108 images of the meditational Buddha inset behind copper prayer wheels. Likewise, one can roam around and buy local Tibetan stuff from the vendors around the stupa. The narrow streets in the surrounding Boudhanath Stupa have colorful homes and beautiful Tibetan Buddhist monasteries.
Pashupatinath Temple
Pashupatinath is one of the most sacred temples for Hindus in Nepal. Located on the bank of the Bagmati river on the eastern outskirts of Kathmandu, the temple is dedicated to lord shiva. These Hindu shrines attract a lot of devotees every year from all over the world. It is more than just a religious destination. With the combination of religion, art, and culture, this temple offers peace and devotion.
Spreading across 246 hectares of land, hundreds of rituals are performed here every day. The premise near the temple is an open museum and the temple was listed in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1979. The temple displays a variety of designs in Dome style, Pagoda style, Shikhara style, and so on. Besides, varieties of statues and sculptures are here around the complex. The statues are made out of stone, metal, and wood. The doors and temples are carved in beautiful shapes of gods and griffins. The temple stretches to Gugeshworu where there are famous temples such as the Bhuwaneshwori, the Dakshinamurti, Tamreshwor, Panchdewal, Bishwarupa, and others.
Embracing the cultural heritage, forest, and water resources, Pashupati Area Development Trust (PADT) was established for further progress in the cultural sites in 1996. Since then, the trust has governed the activities in the Pashupati area.
The main temple of Pashupatinath is a two-stored roof with a bunk roof and a golden spire. The temple has the huge golden statue of Nandi – Shiva’s bull. The Hindus can only enter inside the temple premises, but the people from another religious background can observe the temple surrounding.
Pokhara- The City of Lakes
For more than years, Nepal has been a fascinating destination for travelers, scholars, and researchers. For those who want the best of nature and natural landscapes, Pokhara valley is for them to explore. Pokhara is the second-largest city in the western part at an altitude of 900m above sea level. The city showcases nature and natural resources in a wonderful way that has become a hotspot for tourism and major attractions in Nepal.
Pokhara is the gateway to the Annapurna region and its spellbinding beauty has been the subject of many travel writers. The pristine air, the spectacular backdrop of the snowy peaks, sunrise and sunset view, the calm Phewa, Begnas, and Rupa Lakes, make this destination ‘the Jewel of the Himalaya’. Pokhara is home to exceptionally warm and engaging people. Phewa Tal has become the first camping ground for trekkers and has gently developed into a tourist hub. Now, the lakeside has become a place for tourists to refresh, entertain and spend their night out.
Lying on the shores of the Phewa lake, the visitors will be amazed at the splendid view of three out of the ten highest mountains in the world i.e. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Manasalu. The Machhapuchhre has become the icon of the city with its pointed peak. Likewise, on the overlooking hill of the southern end of the Phewa lake, the visitors can hike up to World Peace Stupa. Similarly, the next short hiking destination in Pokhara can be Sarangkot. It is an amazing viewpoint when one can have a spectacular panorama of sunrise striking over the peak of the Himalayas. Also, the spectacular Georges of Seti Gandaki is only a few minutes away and you don’t want to miss it.
Chitwan National Park
Sheltered at the foot of the Himalayas, Chitwan is rich in flora and fauna. It is the best choice for those who want to embrace nature and natural animals. This city is particularly popular for its national parks and conservation areas and one of the amateurs is the Chitwan National Park. Offering a dense habitat of wildlife and natural beauty, Chitwan National Park (CNP), was established in 1973. It is located in the Southern Central Terai of Nepal. It extends over the foothills, covering an area of 93,200 hectares. And extends over four districts: Chitwan, Nawalparasi, Parsa, and Makwanpur.
Chitwan National park was Nepal’s first national park which is famous for recreational activities such as Jungle safari by jeep or elephant ride. The safari lets you witness endangered species and wildlife such as Royal, Bengal tiger, One-horned Rhino, marsh crocodile, wild boar, etc. Similarly, bird watching and jungle walking are popular in Chitwan National park. Chitwan National park conserves around 450 species of birds with an exceptional range of flora and fauna. In addition to an exploration of flora and fauna, here one will have a wonderful opportunity to embrace the Tharu culture in Chitwan.
Therefore, with varieties of natural diversities, cultural exploration is also a part of the Chitwan National park tour.
Lumbini
When it comes to major attractions in Nepal, Lumbini is one of the most visited places here. Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Buddha- the founder of Buddhism. With its history and significance, Lumbini is a Buddhist pilgrimage site in the Kapilvastu district and is the holiest place for Buddhists. The history dates back to the year 623 623 B.C. when lord buddha was born in the famous gardens of Lumbini.
This pilgrimage site attracts thousands of visitors each year. People want to explore the footsteps of Buddha as well as the place where he spent his childhood as Prince Siddhartha. The place where lord buddha was born is marked here which has now become one of the world’s most important holy sites. Millions of pilgrims visit Lumbini and feel the power of spirituality for themselves. The pilgrimage sites attract people from all religious backgrounds. Lumbini was listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. It is a peaceful city where the symbol of peace was born. It is a historic city where Siddhartha Gautam was born dates back to 523 B.C and later found enlightenment and became Lord Buddha.
The place later was acknowledged by international pilgrims as well. Among the pilgrims was the Indian emperor Ashoka. Indian Emperor Ashoka erected one of his commemorative pillars there. Likewise, Lumbini today houses over twenty-five international Buddhist monasteries and Buddhism meditation centers. Mayadevi Temple is one of the most important sites in Lumbini Furthermore, different countries have built different carved monasteries in Lumbini. Japan, China, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Germany are some of them.
