Top 25 best places to visit in Nepal

A lot of beautiful places are there to see in Nepal; so, literally, it becomes quite difficult to find a perfect destination. From trekking in the incredible amazing mountainous region to exploring the historically embellished legendary cities, there are, indeed, so many places to go in Nepal.

So, to slice down your options, I have explained the top 25 destinations in Nepal in this blog. Those 25 places are random, so if you didn’t like the first option then go next and next until the number 25 to find the right place. I believe you will find the destination of your choice after going through each of the places.

Plus, the descriptions are not detailed, because you might get bored hearing all about the trip at once. If you felt like the description of the place is not enough, then comment or mail us. I promise to reply to you as soon as possible.

Now, catch a virtual tour and fly with the words.

Kathmandu Valley

Kathmandu is enriched with diverse cultures and the remarkable architecture of ancient times. This diversity invites a variety of rituals and traditional practices in the city, whose inspirations are directly or indirectly linked with historical events.

Such practices are more prevalent in the antique cities of Nepal such as Patan and Bhaktapur where the legendary Durbar Squares (historic palaces) stand loud and proud of their unique architecture and aesthetic appeal. Therefore, people sometimes say that walking in the Kathmandu valley feels like traveling back in time. This city is, indeed, a living museum of Nepal.

If you are a passionate photographer, or a curious explorer or traveler, then Kathmandu exploration can be an ideal option for you.

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Namche Bazaar

Namche is a vibrant town in the Everest region of Nepal. It is adorned with beautiful monasteries (gompas), colorful prayer flags, erect Chortens, and spinning prayer wheels. Most importantly, Namche is famous for its viewpoints that offer outstanding views of the far-stretching mountain panorama including Mt. Everest.

It is a feeling of being out of the world. Besides, there are museums to explore and local Sherpas to talk with about their legendary culture and tradition.

Because of its long history of trading, Namche became privileged to grow parallel with modern technological advancements. It is still a commercial center and a popular tourist attraction.

Namche fits best for culture lovers and mountain dreamers as that are for what the people come to Nepal. If you want to inspire your kids for photography, then take them to Namche on an Everest Panorama trek. It is so vivid up there.

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Lumbini

Being the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Lumbini has gained more popularity these days as a spiritual center. People, from all over the world, come to meditate in the open meadows with the sole purpose of attaining peace in mind.

While there are aesthetically appealing monasteries (over 25, built by the representatives of various nations) as well, Lumbini is still reckoned as a sacred site among the Buddhists and Hindus. There are a lot of historical monuments to see and stumble across.

Lumbini has no magical monuments to leave you jaw-dropping, but if you are a peace-seeker or monastery explorer, then Lumbini can give you all that you want.

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Chitwan

Established in 1973, Chitwan National Park soon got listed in the book of World Heritage Sites (1984) because of its wilderness. It is the home for over 650 species of birds, a countless variety of mammals (Royal Bengal Tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, Deer, etc.), and reptiles (python, crocodiles, etc.) that make Chitwan the top destination among nature lovers.

The Rapti river, flowing through the woods of this National Park, shelters two species of crocodiles- Gharials and Muggers- and a Gangetic Dolphin which is rarely sighted jumping in the water of the Rapti.

Chitwan is best for Photography. Also, exploring the wilderness of Chitwan is full of fun. This trip can be best for the family.

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Upper Mustang

Upper Mustang is a restricted site of Nepal that had its own royal kingdom within the territory of Nepal until recently in 1950. This place remained untouched from the globalizing world for centuries; as a result, the authentic taste of ancient culture still lingers in the air of the upper Mustang.

There are beautiful palaces, and labyrinth-like tall caves to join and spend your time in. Otherwise, there is nothing to see except a far-stretching deserted plain. Exploring the upper mustang is analogous is visiting Tibet as the upper mustang is a part of a Tibetan plateau. It is a unique experience to be there.

Upper Mustang is the choice of braves as the trail is very difficult to pass through and the air is mostly dusty by the winds. Only if you have the gut to challenge yourself in every step can you attempt this trek.

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Annapurna Base Camp

Annapurna Base Camp is a fabulous spot to gaze upon the incredible mountain panorama to the north. To rise to the base camp of Annapurna, the trail leads us through the base camp of Machhapuchre that gives us another advantage of exploring the base camps of two mountain peaks.

On the Annapurna Base Camp, there are 5 lodges- each of which offering its unique views of the mountain peaks. During clear weather, the astounding rock wall of Annapurna I dominates the northern skyline, while the southern part highlights the Hiunchuli peak (6441 m).

To sum up, rising to the Annapurna Base camp is a unique way to revel in the beauty of Nepal.

Annapurna Base Camp can be suitable for those hikers or trekkers who are trying to escape the routine of their life.

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Everest Base Camp and Kalapatthar (Black Rock)

Being the world’s highest peak, Everest has its own introduction- the top of the world. Many people dream to be on top of the world. However, not everybody could combat the altitude pressure and low oxygen content in Everest.

For those people, rising to the Everest Base Camp only can provide enough satisfaction as climbing Everest. After all, it is the best possible way to witness Everest in its proximity.

From the base camp, the views are outstanding (unignorable). Plus, a few hours away from the base camp, a Kalapatthar vantage point awaits that induces a spiritual vibe as you rise onto its top. It is a heavenly experience.

If you dream of Everest, then this is a perfect choice. Or else, you may get knocked off by the altitude pressure and low oxygen content in the higher atmosphere of Everest.

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Mardi Himal Base Camp

The route to Mardi Himal Base Camp has been recently opened, so the trails are quite fresh and off-the-beaten. The trek to the Mardi Himal Base Camp has sometimes been nicknamed a ridge trek as most of the time, the trekkers have to walk along the ridge.

From the base camp (viewpoint) of Mardi Himal, the views are simply fascinating with snow-capped peaks of Annapurna-I, Annapurna South, Himchuli, Annapurna Fang, Khangshar Kang, Gangapurna, etc. peeking at the spectator all the time. It receives only a handful of tourists so the roads and authenticity of mountains are still intact.

Mardi Himal Base Camp can be good for beginners but recommended to only experienced trekkers.

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Bardiya National Park

Bardiya National Park is an unspoiled habitat of over 250 species of birds, 30 species of mammals, and several reptiles. In contrast to the Chitwan, the probability of encountering a royal Bengal tiger during jungle safari is more at Bardiya because it receives very fewer visitors.

Apart from the wildlife, the culture of the Terai people is sublime in this region. The Tharus are proud of their unique way of living by fishing and their dances are startling. Explore this isolated (apparently) habitat of wildlife in Nepal.

Photography is best in Bardiya National Park.

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Palpa

Palpa is an epic city of Nepal. Being ruled by the Sens for more than a century, this region was greatly influenced by the arts and architecture. The brilliant Rani Mahal, above the huge rock on the bank of the Kaligandaki river, is sometimes compared with the Taj Mahal of India as the construction of both these palaces was for the queens.

Plus, there are dozens of temples distributed in a wide plain of Palpa. The Tansen of Palpa is famous for the souvenirs and handicraft items. There are resting places (Chautaris) where a Gandharva (a singing clan) plays the sarangi (violin) and sings a song. It is a unique experience to explore the Palpa of Nepal.

Palpa can be a wonderful place to visit if you are an explorer or history lover.

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Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve

Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is the only hunting permitted section of Nepal. The hunting enthusiasts can play with the wild blue sheep and hunt them. Although hunting reserve sounds more like random hunting, it is not true in reality as only limited species of animals could be hunted.

Besides, there are meadows, stretching in a wider arena, that offer outstanding views of the mountains and ridges of the Himalayas. While hunting in the Dhorpatan is something special, there are other activities to enroll in besides hunting.

Hunting can be a passion for someone. If you belong there, then go for this activity.

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Nuwakot

Nuwakot is sometimes called the "Forgotten Land of Heroes" as this is the place from where the great King Prithvi Narayan Shah (unifier of Nepal) started his unification campaign. As important as the history of Nuwakot is, its development as a cultural center also has an interesting story.

The 7-storey Nuwakot Durbar Square, standing on top of the hill, dominates the rest of the settlements and shines in its own charm. There are intricately inscribed carvings and sculptures scattered throughout the palace arena.

This durbar square is also known as the 'Naulakha Durbar' as for the construction of this mansion, 9 lakh rupees (approx. $9000) was spent.

Nuwakot can be the best choice for those who love history and are looking for short trips from Kathmandu.

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Namo Buddha

Located in an ideal natural setting, Namo Buddha is a purely spiritual hub. The views of the incredible mountain panoramas, rising far beyond the eyes, are indeed a rare glimpse of nature.

Having said that, the monastery premises is itself a wonderful place to stay as the delicate designs and intrepid paintings of Buddha inside the main hall induce a peaceful vibe. There is also a meditation center, where one can sit and meditate.

The monks and other authorities of the monastery believe that the different pictures of Buddha inside the monastery are the behavioral characteristics of a human, which helps a meditator to gain control over his emotions. It is indeed a heavenly spot.

Best with anybody.

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Pokhara

Pokhara is a naturally blessed city of Nepal, surrounded by verdant hills and mountain panoramas on all sides. The beautiful lakes and splendid waterfalls are the important attractions of this site. Plus, the popularity of paragliding, Bungee jumping, zip flying, etc. has helped grow Pokhara into a lovely destination.

For the last few decades, this place has been the eye of explorers as there are a lot of things to see and explore. There are unexplored hiking trails and mystical caves around the valley of Pokhara, which are a few of the many surprises that this city has to offer.

Being enriched by the floral and faunal diversity, Pokhara has all the reasons to give you an experience of being out of the world.

The Pokhara trip can be perfect for the family or couples.

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Dolpa (Dolpo)

Dolpo is a culturally rich remote region of far-western Nepal. This place is isolated from the rest of the world, and the people living here are nomadic traders. During the summer, they grow millet, barley, and other commodities in the soil and when the winter approaches, they travel across the Himalayas for trading purposes.

In the meantime, the Dolpo becomes vacant. The lifestyles of these people greatly correspond with the ancestral way of living such as the firewood, they use yak dung, etc. To explore these unique vivacities of Nepal is in itself an adventure. Let us venture together.

Dolpo is only for the daredevils.

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Muktinath

The temple of Muktinath is dedicated to Lord Vishnu- one of the three superior Hindu deities. This place is religiously established and is surprisingly interesting. The natural water extruding out of the tap-like sculptures is mixed with the natural gas, so there is an eternal flame on one side of this temple.

This place is considered sacred in a sense the four elements- earth, water, air, and fire- fuse in a natural way. Plus, we can find a lot of Shaligrams (ammonites) in this region, which is regarded as the manifestation of Lord Vishnu in the form of a stone. Many people from India, as well as Nepal, come to this site to take a sacred bath from the 108 holy fountains.

Muktinath is purely a spiritual place, so you may go with any family or friends.

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Thorong La Pass (5,416 m)

Thorong La Pass is the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit trail, connecting the Manang village in the east to the holy Muktinath temple in the west. This path used to be the yak caravan routes in the past, where the traders brought their commodities and exchanged them with the Tibetans for salt.

Besides history, this place is a naturally ideal vantage point, offering good views of the lower hills and snowy peaks around. As beautiful as this place is, it is equally challenging to make it to the top of the Thorong La pass as every step feels like running in a marathon.

Only the daredevil should try this.

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Tengboche

Tengboche is a small village in the northern Himalayas of Nepal which has its own immense cultural pride and aesthetically appealing beauty. The artistically embellished monastery at Tengboche is the largest of its kind in the Everest region of Nepal.

Inside the monastery, there are brilliantly carved statues and soul-appealing paintings of Buddha, epitomizing the certain characteristics of the human being. As this place is close to Everest, one can witness the Everest peak from proximity. This village can be reached after Pangboche (the entrance point of the Ama Dablam Base Camp) and before Dingboche.

Best for anybody.

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Ama Dablam Base Camp

Ama Dablam peak can be witnessed on the way to the Everest Base Camp. While the surrounding views from the Ama Dablam Base Camp are not quite special, the views on the way to Ama Dablam Base Camp are inspiring.

The more you soar higher, the better the views become. The snowy pinnacles appear glittering when the sun smiles from the eastern horizon. This is once in a lifetime view.

However, it is not easy to reach the base camp of the Ama Dablam because of the icy and sloppy terrain. It is considered to be harder than reaching the base camp of Everest. But that difficulty is compensation for good views.

Only self-motivated explorers can complete this trek.

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Langtang Valley

Lantang is a sensational valley as the views of landscapes and mountain panoramas appear unworldly from a distance. The climate and the geography of this region are perfect for all kinds of activities

. Before the earthquake hit Nepal in 2015, the Langtang region received more recognition and a heavy inflow of tourists than Everest and Annapurna. However, the destruction caused by the earthquake threatened the journey-maker to kick off on this trek again.

Relative to other destinations, it may be challenging for a traveler to climb the sloppy terrain of Langtang. But the views are truly incredible. If you love mountains, then this place is where you should visit, at least once in a lifetime.

Only for self-motivated trekkers.

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Manaslu

Manaslu is known for its authentic taste of rural lifestyle and its culturally shaped local inhabitants. To preserve this core asset of Manaslu, the government of Nepal permits only a limited number of trekkers to venture on the terrain of Manaslu.

You will require a special permit (not TIMS) to travel across this restricted region of Nepal. Much of the rituals and beliefs of the people of Manaslu are inspired by the Tibetan culture or, so to speak, Tibetan Buddhism.

It is a heavenly experience. Apart from being culturally rich, Manaslu offers wonderful views of the mountain vistas as well. All in all, it is one of the best places to visit in Nepal.

Only for the adventure lover.

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Shivapuri National Park

Shivapuri National Park is enriched with a variety of floral and faunal species. This forest shelters countless species of endemic plants and endangered mammals such as the Himalayan Black Bear, Rhesus Monkey, Barking Deer, etc. Because of these attractions, this place has been receiving a significant number of tourists each year.

Particularly popular as a family destination, the Shivapuri National Park is a top vacation spot among the inhabitants of Kathmandu. If you are a passionate hiker or nature lover, then you must visit this place.

Best with the Family, friends, or couples.

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Poon Hill

The sunrise view from the top of Poon Hill is sometimes admired as a heavenly glimpse of nature. Indeed, this compliment well suits what this vantage point offers. As the sun slowly rises over the snowy horizon, far from the eyes, the verdant hills turn gradually golden in color.

For a moment, it feels like a kaleidoscope of colors and energy is spreading in an infinite space. Because of this amazing scenario, trekkers in the Annapurna region at least take a side trip to this amazing region of Nepal. This makes this spot one of the must-visit sites in Nepal.

Best with family or friends.

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Sarangkot

Anyone who visits Pokhara rarely misses the sunrise from the viewpoint of Sarangkot. Similar to that of Poon Hill, the Sarangkot sunrise view is one of the best glimpses of nature and has the beauty to win the title of the best short hikes in Nepal.

The hike to Sarangkot takes you along the pleasant trail fenced by the lush farm fields and the hamlets of indigenous Gurungs. Seeing the view from the Sarangkot is not only a beautiful memory but a spiritual experience. It is best to venture on this trek with your family or friends.

Best with anybody.

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Bandipur

Bandipur has a long trading history. In the past, Bandipur used to be the center of commercial activities, so the Newars of Bhaktapur, who were one of the passionate traders of Kathmandu valley, fled to Bandipur for trading.

Later, they settled there. Because of that, most of the houses in Bandipur are built in typical Newari-style architecture. This place is well developed and is famous for its viewpoint that can be reached either via hiking or via a car or a Jeep.

Watching the mountains smile in whitish snow is indeed a rare glimpse of nature. Travel to Bandipur with your family as there is a lot to see and explore.

Best with anybody.

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