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Sumba Sherpa (Co-Founder & CEO)
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Since 1998 15,000+ Happy Guests Sherpa Owned & Operated Company
Nepal is a country of mixed wonders to be enjoyed and experienced. Visitors to this incredible country can delve into its long history, climb its mighty Himalayan mountains, relax at its tranquil lakes, browse through its fascinating wildlife, undertake adventure activities, and explore its ancient communities all in one trip. There are many things to do in Nepal for all kinds of travelers.
If you are coming to Nepal for the first time, taking a quick cultural break or heading off on a lengthy trekking trip, you will find that the country has many options to suit a wide range of interests, wallets, and physical ability.
Visit UNESCO-registered attractions, walk in traditional mountain villages, enjoy views of the Himalaya, go rafting or paragliding, taste local food, travel to spiritual spots, and walk across some of the most renowned mountains.
The best things to do in Nepal include Himalayan trekking, Kathmandu sightseeing, visiting Pokhara, exploring ancient temples and monasteries, experiencing Sherpa and local culture, seeing wildlife in Chitwan, visiting Lumbini, enjoying adventure activities, and trying traditional Nepali food.
For first-time visitors, combining Kathmandu, Pokhara, and a short Himalayan experience is a good way to experience Nepal's culture, nature, and mountain scenery in one trip.
Trekking is one of the most popular things to do in Nepal, but there is no single trek that is best for everyone. The right route depends on your available time, fitness level, trekking experience, preferred scenery, and tolerance for high altitude.
Before selecting a route, consider your:
A good starting point for understanding different routes, permits, preparation, and trekking conditions is the Nepal Trekking Guide.
Here are some popular options:
The Everest region is considered one of the premier trek destinations in Nepal. A trek in this area travels through Sherpa villages, over Buddhist monasteries and suspension bridges, and into majestic Himalayan scenery.
On the most popular route to Everest Base Camp, you'll pass through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorak Shep and finally Everest Base Camp.
Journeying to the Everest region can be suitable for those who prefer a longer program and include some time to explore and acclimatize, like an Everest Base Camp Trek.
Annapurna provides astonishing diversity with its mountain views, forest environments, local villages, and cultural groups.
Annapurna Circuit Trek around the Annapurna massif includes magnificent scenery and high mountain passes.
For those passing through the region with only a few weeks to spare, shorter routes in the Annapurnas can offer a brief but rewarding sampler of Himalayan trekking.
There is a good reason why the Manaslu region is a good option for those looking for a less traveled route in the Himalayas.
Our trek around the Manaslu Circuit has it all, from mountain views to traditional villages, Buddhist life to high-altitude scenery.
With its higher altitudes and more advanced hiking trails, the Manaslu area requires more preparation from those who choose to travel there. Make sure to have done your homework and follow the latest trekking rules and regulations.
The Gokyo region presents a different view of the Everest region.
Gokyo Lake and Gokyo Ri Trekking. Travellers will trek through a series of stunning glacial lakes and the Gokyo Ri watch point.
From high vantage points, trekkers can see awe-inspiring views of the Himalayas, weather and visibility permitting.
For travelers looking for a Himalayan experience relatively close to Kathmandu, Langtang is another excellent option.
The Langtang Valley Trek combines mountain scenery, forests, villages, and local cultural experiences.
Going around Kathmandu is another thing you should do when you are looking for things to do in Nepal.
In the Kathmandu Valley, you will see centuries-old architecture, Hindu temples, Buddhist stupas, traditional neighborhoods, marketplaces, and living cultural traditions.
If you want to look around, a Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour is a great option. If this is your first visit to the city, a sightseeing tour will be an easy way to see the sights.
Pashupatinath is one of Nepal's most significant Hindu temples and a popular pilgrimage destination.
On the side of a hill overlooking the Bagmati River, there is a temple complex that allows one to admire the religious customs and architecture of Nepal.
Visitors who are not Hindu are unable to enter the main temple. However, they are permitted to visit parts of the complex outside the temple.
Boudhanath is a landmark in Kathmandu. A large white stupa is backed by monasteries, cafes, shops and prayer wheels. This zone is of great significance to Tibetan Buddhist groups.
Walking the perimeter of the stupa and interacting with pilgrims as well as observing local customs and traditions can make for a memorable cultural experience.
Standing atop a hill which rises above Kathmandu, lies Swayambhunath, otherwise called the Monkey Temple.
The site melds Buddhist and Hindu Traditions, with views reaching to the edge of Kathmandu Valley in clear weather.
Kathmandu Durbar Square contains historic temples, courtyards, palaces, and traditional architecture.
It provides insight into the history of Kathmandu and the artistic traditions of the Kathmandu Valley.
If you've got more time, the towns of Patan and Bhaktapur are worth exploring. Patan is well known for its unique Newari style of architecture, its temples, metalwork, and Durbar Square.
Bhaktapur is famous for its well-preserved historic city streets and courtyards, temples, tradition of pottery, and the unique Newari architecture.
Pokhara is definitely one of the best places to visit in Nepal for anyone looking for nature, relaxation, mountain views, and adventure. Located next to Phewa Lake with good views of the Annapurna range in clear weather.
Popular things to do in Pokhara include:
Pokhara is another major entrance for many of the trekking routes to Annapurna. It's common to take Kathmandu and Pokhara in the same trip to Nepal, as these two cities are very different.
Across Nepal's mountains are a collection of ethnic groups, all with their own customs, languages, and food. The Sherpa culture is mainly inhabited in the Everest region.
In a trek to the Himalaya, it is common to encounter villages where everything from the Buddhist monasteries, prayer flags, mani walls, chortens, to the traditional houses is an integral part of one's daily life.
Finding yourself with a local community and getting to know their way of life can make your trek more special than actually climbing a mountain.
Seasoned Sherpa guides are extremely helpful in providing information about the environment, culture, trekking routes, and mountain conditions.
Sure, Nepal is about the mountains, but it's so much more.
The southern lowlands are a stark contrast, with subtropical forests, grasslands, rivers, and an abundance of life. Chitwan National Park is one of the best-visited wildlife parks in the country.
Guests may be able to see animals, depending on the time of year and the conditions:
Engaging in jungle activities such as guided nature walks, canoeing and wildlife watching. A Chitwan visit makes a great addition to a Nepal itinerary for those seeking both high mountain vistas and the opportunity to see some great wildlife.
Lumbini is among the holiest of the Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Generally considered to be the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, the man who would eventually become the Buddha.
People can visit the Holy Garden, Maya Devi Temple, monasteries, and other historical and holy sites.
Lumbini can be a tranquil place, as well as somewhere to learn more about Buddhism and its spread around the rest of Asia.
It can be particularly interesting for travelers interested in:
Religion is one of the features that define Nepal's beauty. The Buddhist and Hindu cultures have coexisted side by side for centuries. You can feel the influence of these cultures throughout the Kathmandu Valley and the Himalayan regions.
You can visit:
A few of the routes in the Himalayas take you past historical monasteries and various places of worship.
For those looking to experience Himalayan Buddhism, the monasteries of Tengboche and the monasteries around the Gokyo and Everest regions can provide a rich cultural experience to augment a trekking experience.
Adventure is one of the most compelling motivators for travelers to visit Nepal. You don’t have to be a serious climber to take part in adventure activities. There are courses to cater to all levels of experience.
Popular activities include:
Nepal's rivers offer rafting opportunities ranging from relatively gentle sections to more challenging white-water experiences.
Pokhara is one of Nepal's most popular locations for paragliding. Flights typically provide views over Phewa Lake, hills, and the surrounding landscape.
Mountain biking allows travelers to explore Kathmandu Valley, rural roads, and other scenic areas.
For seasoned adventure travelers, there are options to climb some of the sanctioned trekking peaks in Nepal.
Mountain Sherpa Trekking organizes peak-climbing tours for those who want to explore the Himalayas more technically.
All adventure activities shall be designed according to your experience, physical conditions, weather conditions, and professional safety advice.
Another amazing activity to do in Nepal is visiting the traditional villages. Discover village travel, and you may see where people actually live, away from the tourist hotspots.
Depending on the region, you may encounter:
In places like the Everest, Annapurna, Langtang and Manaslu regions, villages in the Himalayas provide some of the most unique cultural experiences.
Trekking at a gentle pace across villages will also provide you with more chances to courteously engage with the local community.
Food should be part of every Nepal itinerary. Nepali cuisine reflects the country's diverse geography and cultures.
Dal Bhat is one of the most common traditional foods in Nepal. It usually consists of rice, lentil soup, vegetables, and side dishes. It is also easier to find on some popular trekking routes.
Momos are Nepalese dumplings commonly filled with vegetables or meat. They are available throughout Kathmandu, Pokhara, and many other towns.
Thukpa is a warm noodle soup that is particularly popular in Himalayan and Tibetan-influenced communities.
Kathmandu Valley is famous for Newari cuisine, which includes a wide range of traditional dishes and snacks.
Trying local food is not simply about eating, it is also a way to experience Nepal's cultural diversity.
Trekking through the mountains of Nepal isn't always necessary to experience the mountains. There are a few places that offer stunning mountain views and are easy to reach.
Popular viewpoints include:
It's different with the season and the weather. A good morning for photographers and lovers of nature. Nice mountain views and changing light over the Himalaya.
In order to see the things ordinary city dwellers use and live with, walk through Kathmandu's markets and old city neighborhoods.
Thamel attracts a large number of foreign tourists, these include restaurants, cafes, trekking outfitter shops, handicrafts, and souvenir shops. Kathmandu Valley's other regions have a more old-world feel.
You can shop for:
Remember to compare prices and purchase responsibly, particularly when buying cultural or religious items.
Nepal's calendar includes many Hindu and Buddhist festivals.
Depending on when you visit, you may experience celebrations such as:
Festivals offer an interesting view into tradition, music, food, religion, and local life. Nevertheless, while visitors need to be respectful of local traditions, they should not make churches into tourist destinations.
There is no single best Nepal itinerary for everyone.
|
Traveler |
Recommended Experiences |
|
First-time visitor |
Kathmandu, Pokhara, and cultural sightseeing |
|
Trekker |
Everest, Annapurna, Manaslu, Langtang, or Gokyo |
|
Adventure lover |
Rafting, paragliding, trekking, and peak climbing |
|
Culture lover |
Kathmandu Valley, villages, temples, and festivals |
|
Nature lover |
Himalayan trekking and Chitwan wildlife |
|
Spiritual traveler |
Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, and Lumbini |
|
Family traveler |
Kathmandu, Pokhara, wildlife, and easier hikes |
|
Photographer |
Himalayan viewpoints, villages, lakes, and cultural sites |
|
Food lover |
Kathmandu and Pokhara's local restaurants and markets |
Nepal offers different experiences for different types of travelers. Instead of trying to see everything, choose activities that match your interests, available time, and fitness level.
|
Traveler Type |
Best Experiences |
|
First-time visitors |
Kathmandu, Pokhara, cultural sightseeing and short hikes |
|
Adventure travelers |
Trekking, rafting, paragliding and peak climbing |
|
Trekkers |
Everest, Annapurna, Manaslu, Gokyo or Langtang |
|
Culture lovers |
Temples, monasteries, heritage sites and traditional villages |
|
Nature lovers |
Himalayan landscapes, lakes, national parks and scenic viewpoints |
|
Wildlife lovers |
Chitwan National Park and jungle experiences |
|
Spiritual travelers |
Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath and Lumbini |
|
Food lovers |
Dal bhat, momo, thukpa and Newari cuisine |
|
Photographers |
Himalayan viewpoints, mountain villages, lakes and cultural sites |
|
Families |
Kathmandu, Pokhara, wildlife experiences and easier hikes |
The best time to visit Nepal depends on what you want to do. Autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) are generally popular seasons for trekking and mountain activities because conditions are often favorable.
Spring is a favorite time for trekking, generally for outdoor activities. Many low-altitude areas start to show blooms of the flowers, but the mountain conditions are good.
The monsoon delivers a heavy dose of rain to a large area of Nepal. People still travel, though: there are a few places you can still get to, although the country is a lot greener.
Falling in August, September and October is one of the busy periods for trekking, sightseeing and mountain tours.
Weather generally suitable for numerous outdoor endeavors. (You can use the weather conditions at your location here and then describe how suitable they are for your activities).
Winter can be appropriate for many cultural activities and those at lower elevations. It can be very cold on higher Himalayan routes, and snow may be encountered on some high altitude routes. You may also wish to read a more detailed season guide on Best Time to trek in Nepal.
How many days do you need in Nepal depends on what you want to see and do. 3-4 days is sufficient to visit only Kathmandu, but if you want to include Pokhara in your trip, it will be a 5-7 day trip. If you want to go trekking as well as visit all of Nepal, it will take from 10 to 14 days.
In 3-4 days in Nepal, you can spend your whole time in Kathmandu Valley. You will be able to visit the highlights of the valley such as cultural and historical sites, temples, Buddhist stupas, and get out to local markets, walk, or take day trips.
Best for: First-time visitors, culture lovers, and travelers with limited time.
Here is a suggested 5-7 day Nepal itinerary that combines Kathmandu with Pokhara. Discover Kathmandu rich cultural attractions for a few days and then venture to Pokhara for stunning Phewa Lake, Himalayan sights, sunrise, and thrilling adventures.
Best for: Travelers who want a mix of culture, nature, and mountain scenery.
With 10–14 days in Nepal, you have more flexibility. You can combine Kathmandu and Pokhara with a short trek, wildlife experience, or another regional destination.
Depending on your interests, you can explore a trekking region such as Annapurna, Langtang, or another suitable Himalayan route.
Best for: Adventure travelers, nature lovers, and travelers who want more than sightseeing.
With 2-3 weeks in Nepal, you will have enough time to combine some cultural sightseeing with a prolonged Himalayan trekking trip. You could dedicate a couple of days to sightseeing in Kathmandu and then head off on an Everest Base Camp, Annapurna, Manaslu, Langtang, or Gokyo trek.
You will also have more time so you can take the trip at a more relaxed pace, with the option to add in acclimatization days where needed.
Best for: Trekkers, adventure travelers, and visitors looking for a deeper Nepal experience.
|
Trip Length |
Recommended Experiences |
|
3–4 days |
Kathmandu sightseeing and nearby day trips |
|
5–7 days |
Kathmandu + Pokhara |
|
10–14 days |
Kathmandu + Pokhara + short trek or wildlife |
|
2–3 weeks |
Kathmandu + cultural experiences + Himalayan trek |
Planning ahead can make your Nepal trip more comfortable and enjoyable.
Weather varies significantly between the lowlands, Kathmandu Valley, and high Himalayas.
Road journeys can take longer than expected because of traffic, road conditions, weather, and other local factors.
If you plan to trek, train beforehand and select a route appropriate for your fitness and experience.
High-altitude trekking requires appropriate acclimatization. Do not rush your itinerary simply to save a day.
Dress appropriately at temples and monasteries, ask before photographing people, and follow local rules.
Even during warmer months, Himalayan temperatures can drop considerably at higher elevations.
Avoid unnecessary plastic waste, respect wildlife, support local businesses, and leave natural and cultural sites as you found them.
Nepal is more than just one way of traveling. You could start your day wandering around an ancient temple in Kathmandu, have a relaxing afternoon by the lake in Pokhara, stroll through an old Himalayan village, or trek for three weeks under the world's biggest mountains.
Best activities to do in Nepal will vary according to your own personal interests, duration of your travel, fitness level, budget, and time of the season.
For first-time visitors, a mixture of cultural sightseeing, nature, local cuisine, and the Himalayan experience can be a good way to get a taste of the country. If you have the time, there is also scope for wildlife, adventure activities, spiritual sights or a longer trek.
Nepal can be more than just a list of sights if we look at how we travel there with sensitivity and responsibility. Nepal has so much more to offer than its mountains, people, cultures and landscapes.
1. What are the best things to do in Nepal?
Trekking, Kathmandu sightseeing, visiting Pokhara, exploring cultural sites, wildlife tours, adventure activities, and experiencing local culture are among the top choices.
2. Is Nepal good for first-time travelers?
Yes. Nepal offers cultural tours, easy hikes, adventure activities, and trekking routes for different experience levels.
3. What is Nepal most famous for?
Nepal is best known for the Himalayas, Mount Everest, trekking, Buddhist and Hindu heritage, wildlife, and diverse landscapes.
4. What can I do in Nepal besides trekking?
You can enjoy sightseeing, wildlife tours, rafting, paragliding, cultural experiences, food tours, and spiritual travel.
5. How many days are enough for Nepal?
A week can cover major highlights, while two to three weeks allow time for a longer trek and additional destinations.
6. What is the best time to visit Nepal?
Spring and autumn are popular for trekking and outdoor activities, while many cultural attractions can be visited throughout the year.
7. Is Pokhara worth visiting?
Yes. Pokhara offers lakes, Himalayan views, adventure activities, and access to popular trekking routes.
8. Which trek is best for beginners in Nepal?
The best trek depends on fitness, available time, and altitude experience. Shorter and lower-altitude routes can be good starting points.
