Top 15 things to do in Nepal

Nepal offers a wide array of exotic experience in every level of your visit. It serves the best if you are into nature and wilderness, it literally leaps your heart if you admire the culture and tradition of indigenous groups and you will be revered if you are seeking for ancient heritages and monuments which dates back to thousands year.

Visiting a new place might leave you overwhelmed and undecided, but we are always here to help to take a new step in knowing Nepal every day. Here is some list of things you can accomplish here.

1. TREKKING

Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp trek witness the largest number of trekkers in Nepal, and they are the signature trek of Nepal. You can see also that they overtop the rest of trekking destination. But as the throng of tourist started to grow, they became more curious to unravel the beauty beyond every Himalayas.

Now, there are trails that have been developed, and every day new trails are getting discovered. As of present Nepal is known around the world as one of the best trekking destinations with an innumerable choice of trekking. Trekking certainly lets you view the mesmerizing view of mountains and striking beauty en route, but, Nepal offers more than this. Home to a very large number of indigenous groups, here you can experience the authentic culture and custom.

Mardi Himal Trek, Kanchenjunga Trek, Mustang Trek, Annapurna Base Camp, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Langtang Trek, Manaslu Trek, Makalu Base Camp, and Upper Dolpo trek are some of the exemplary treks in Nepal we offer.

2. MOUNTAIN CLIMBING

As unbelievable as it may sound, but Nepal, a small landlocked country harbors eight out of fourteen tallest mountains in the world which including the tallest, Everest (8,886 meters). First scaled by a legendary duo of Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Edmund Hillary in 1953, Everest then started to get a lot of visitors from around the world. Obviously, they wanted to have the glory of conquering the largest and most glorious gift of nature.

Like trekking, mountaineering also flourished gradually. Although Annapurna was the first eight-thousander to be climbed, the popularity grew because of Everest. Then climbers started to expedite other peaks and mountain climbing in Nepal became one of the most go to things. From the experienced and skilled to a newbie, Nepal has every mountain anyone for the climb. Few exemplary ones are Island peak ( 6189m) , Mera Peak (6654m) , Tent peak (5663m), Pisang peak (6901m), Yala Peak (5500m).

3. MOUNTAIN BIKING

Nothing beats the thrill of hurtling down the dirt roads on a mountain bike and having the exhilarating experience. That is why mountain biking is a popular activity by the tourist.

Mountain biking can be started right here from the valley with endless options for spirited bikers. The trails are rusty and remote.  Getting down the valley leads you to far-flung of a settlement with excellent views along the way as the fields are covered with a plantation, and a distant view of the mountain appears as you reach higher.

Mountain biking in Nepal is an absolute delight and the best way to discover Nepal and Nepali people. Serene and remote valleys, pristine glacial lakes, stunning Himalayas and warmth of local people will be the best experience for you.

4. RAFTING AND KAYAKING

Nepal can’t be more than thankful for the breathtaking Himalayas which has given pride and recognition throughout the world. Roaring white rivers are another admiration among us from the Himalayas.

Stunning soaring white rivers that descend from the mountains and along stretched of silver sandy beaches against the mighty Himalayas, rafting in Nepal has the best to give. Rafting and kayaking are the much love adventure by water-enthusiast.

Stay calm and enjoy deep river gorges to wide river basins through some of the popular rivers of Bhote Koshi, Trishuli and Trishuli where rapid grades range from 1 to 6 making it possible for everyone. And, amongst them the best is Sun Koshi river, which provides the most thrilling experience for high adventure white water rafting. Exotic flora, aquatic life, and serene view add more life while rafting.

5. PARAGLIDING

Admit it, at some point in your life you envied those little creatures in the sky flying so flawlessly because we all did. Won’t we give what it takes to have that ultimate experience even for once? Well, Nepal takes care of it, and personally, it is a must try thing in life.

In the sky around the majestic snow-capped mountains, the serene lakes and valley settled in a unique topography is certainly the best feeling. Paragliding in Nepal started in 1995, and by this date, it offers the best flight, be in tandem or solo flight, you be delighted.

6. BUNGEE JUMPING

Imagine jumping off to one of the deepest gorges all by yourself? Bungee jumping in Nepal has been put on as breathtaking and heart-pounding. It certainly needs some dare, but who wants a mundane life, yes?

Adventure lovers just long to visit Nepal as there is numerous choice of adrenaline adventures. Jumping from a suspension bridge above river canyon into the roaring river of Bhote Koshi will be your best bungee jump ever.

You don’t need to worry about the safety as one of New Zealand’s leading bungee consultants designed the bunjee of Pokhara. The place is operated by some of the most experienced jumpmasters. The lush green forest covering the hills feels you with more delight.

Jungle tours, bird watching, zip flyer, skydiving, canyoning, mountain flights are some adrenaline adventures perfect for the hardcore adventurers in Nepal.

7. HOME STAY AT VILLAGES AND CULTURE TOURS

Majority of Nepal’s population resides in rural village areas. Wherever you go, you will end up being in one of the villages and these villages exhibit the authentic culture and tradition of Nepal. What more fascinating is, you don’t have to “actually” go for a village tour, as the most part is a village, you will easily encounter one, so why not take a few more hours and explore Nepal through the locals.

Villages will show you the genuine reality beyond the tall buildings and smog of cities. They are the root of culture, custom, practices, and lifestyle of Nepali people. You will be delighted to meet new peoples, with the green cultivation, indigenous songs and dances, and various cultural programs.

Despite religious and cultural diversity, Nepal is a harmonious blend of culture. You will encounter different ethnicity in different parts of the country. Villages in Nepal are mostly a group of same ethnic people living in peace depicting their native culture and custom. Mountain region is populated by Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, Magar, Gurung, Tamang, Chetteris, Brahmins, etc. Hilly region is dominated by Newars, Chetteris (Khas) and Brahmins. Likewise, Tear is inhabited by a majority of Tharu tribes and Madhesis.

8. LEARN ARTS

As a wise man once said “Art is the only way to run away without leaving home.”, so what is a better way than learning something that remains forever in you and gets better with each use?

In Kathmandu valley, there still exists the centuries-old traditional artisan skills where you can take a course in woodcarving, stone masonry, pottery, painting thangkas from artisans. Nepal is a country of gods and goddesses with temples and palaces dedicated to them, which exhibits the excellent arts and crafts of Nepal.

From a small and typical household to forging the world-renowned knife, Khukuri, Nepalese artists are masters of their own. Thangka, Nepali carpets, Newari wood craving, Bamboo knitted umbrella are some arts you can learn from Nepal and be the master of your family. (winks)

9. NEPALI CUISINE AND CULINARY

In Nepal, you can have international and continental dishes and authentic foods as well. But, visiting a new place and trying the local food is the best part of traveling, isn’t it? Here in Nepal, there are excellent local dishes to savor your taste buds.

Nepal doesn’t have a distinct way of cooking. However, foods and cooking style differs as per the region. Newari and Thakali cuisine are the authentic Nepali food and so far loved by visitors. Nepali tali comprising rice, curry and lentil soup and momos are some favorite foods. Newars of Kathmandu Valley serves the best snacks in the country. Anarasa, sel roti, aalu tama are some of the exclusive foods in Nepal.

In the Himalayan region, the food and cooking style is very much influenced by Tibetan culture. Yak cheese, butter tea and noodles (thukpa) are often consumed in this region. While hilly regions showcase a different taste of heavy lunches which are extremely delicious: high-grade rice, vegetables, curries, and lentils are the major consumption of this region. Now, Terai region, the lowland region of Nepal where the majority of foods are produced are very popular for savoring fish curry.

10. EXPLORE THE WILDERNESS

Nepal is blessed with a wide range of biodiversity, that has formed some prominent protected areas that harbor rare and endangered species of flora and fauna in the world. There are 12 national parks, six conservation area, and each wildlife reserve and hunting reserve. You can easily locate one in your nearest area and go for exploration.

Sagarmatha National Park and Chitwan National Park are even in the list of world natural heritage. Everest at 8,848 meters dominated most of the area of Sagarmatha National Park with 118 species of birds and rare animals like snow leopard, musk deer, Himalayan black bear, red panda, Himalayan thars and others. Also, there are different species of vegetation at a different level of altitude.

Likewise, Chitwan National Park has over 700 species of wildlife that includes one-horned rhino, mugger crocodile, Bengal tiger, four-horned antelope, and leopards. With around 600 species of birds and number of species of butterflies, moths, and insects, Chitwan National Park witnesses a large number of wanderers.

11. TAKE A ROUND OF UNESCO HERITAGE SITES

Altogether Nepal has ten sites declared by UNESCO as a world heritage site, and the above two national parks are two natural heritage, and the rest eight are cultural heritages.

Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, Changu Narayan, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath and Lumbini are the other eight cultural heritage. And you know what the great thing is? – Seven of them are located inside the Kathmandu Valley. These monuments represent history, ancient architecture, religious essence, spiritual value and ancient civilization and way of life. You can easily access to this location as they are very nearly located and have some good time strolling around the streets.

12. BE A PART OF THE FESTIVAL

There are more than hundreds of festival celebrated throughout Nepal by different religious groups and ethnic groups. The best to know any country and their culture is to participate in one of their festivals. Thankfully, this multi-religious, Nepal country celebrates different festivals all year along.

Some are dedicated to the god; some are for family and friends, some represents our ethical value, while some are celebrated for the victory of good over evil: whichever may be the reason, the festivals literally makes the climate vibrant and joyous. Holi, rice planting festival, Teej, Tihar are some of the favorite festivals of tourists as these festival are very unique. Another best part of the festival is the food. You can have a taste of different foods at different festivals. Foods are part of Nepali culture and festival.​

 13.TAKE A ROUND OF UNESCO HERITAGE SITES

Altogether Nepal has ten sites declared by UNESCO as a world heritage site, and the above two national parks are two natural heritage, and the rest eight are cultural heritages.

Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, Changu Narayan, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath and Lumbini are the other eight cultural heritage. And you know what the great thing is? – Seven of them are located inside the Kathmandu Valley. These monuments represent history, ancient architecture, religious essence, spiritual value and ancient civilization and way of life. You can easily access to this location as they are very nearly located and have some good time strolling around the streets.

14. BE A PART OF THE FESTIVAL

There are more than hundreds of festival celebrated throughout Nepal by different religious groups and ethnic groups. The best to know any country and their culture is to participate in one of their festivals. Thankfully, this multi-religious, Nepal country celebrates different festivals all year along.

Some are dedicated to the god; some are for family and friends, some represents our ethical value, while some are celebrated for the victory of good over evil: whichever may be the reason, the festivals literally makes the climate vibrant and joyous. Holi, rice planting festival, Teej, Tihar are some of the favorite festivals of tourists as these festival are very unique. Another best part of the festival is the food. You can have a taste of different foods at different festivals. Foods are part of Nepali culture and festival.

15. BOATING

From glacier-fed lakes up north to where rivers ease into the Terai plains, there are numerous lakes in Nepal where tourists can experience the pleasures of boating. With famous lakes like Phewa, Begnas and Rupa, lying in the vicinity of Pokhara is known as the lake city and a popular place to go boating.

In the Terai, one can go canoeing on Narayani or Rapti rivers near Chitwan National Park. Boats and canoes can be rented from local dealers on hourly basis from nearby areas. Pokhara and Chitwan are accessible both by air and road from

Kathmandu. A wide variety of accommodation and other facilities are easily available in both the places.