Largely known in the travel world as backpackers paradise, you can easily find various things to do in Nepal even if you happen to be traveling alone.
With breathtaking landscapes as a striking backdrop, tourism in Nepal caters for both, budget travelers as well as leisure travelers, and so does the diverse activities available in the beautiful mountainous country.
Situated between the Himalayas and the jungle, Nepal is a magic land where everything seems possible. The country comprises eight of the ten tallest mountains in the world, including the highest point on Earth, Mount Everest. That is why people mainly think of mountain climbing and trekking when they hear the word Nepal. However, there are many things to do in Nepal other than mountain climbing.
Here are the top things to do in Nepal.
Explore Chitwan National Park
The first national park in Nepal, Chitwan National Park was established in in 1973. The park spreads over a massive area of 332 square miles.
Chitwan National Park is a UNESCO world heritage site, the natural reserve is home to many species of flora and fauna. This is the place to see bears, tigers, crocodiles, elephants and one-horned rhinos in their natural habitat. If you are very very lucky, you might even spot a Bengal tiger.
Taking a tour in this park is definitely one of the top things to do in Nepal. Some people even choose to book a night at one of the nearby hotels to spend more than one day at the park.
Paraglide over Pokhara
You cannot visit Nepal without visiting Pokhara, the second largest city and one of the major tourist hubs in the country. And what better way to experience the stunningly beautiful city than to paraglide over it!
The city itself possess a spectacular laid back charm, with its beautiful blue lakes and surrounding snowy mountains, however its true fame stems from being the best paragliding spot in the globe.
In addition to paragliding, many trekking trails start from Pokhara, and boating in the lakes is a very popular activity as well.
No matter what you do, Pokhara is a must visit in Nepal, it is a city of unforgettable beauty.
Visit the old parts of Kathmandu
The capital, the largest city and the most populous city in Nepal, Kathmandu is a city unlike any other, you will be amazed by the sounds, colors and sights of the city once you step out of the airport.
Start your trip at Thamel, the old neighborhood has been the most famous tourist hub in Kathmandu since forever. The narrow allies of Thamel, many of which pedestrian streets only, comprise everything from authentic food to budget hotels to handmade souvenirs.
While in Kathmandu, make sure to check the ancient temples and to get to know the Tibetan culture. This ancient culture is one of the oldest and the richest cultures in the world.
Take a panoramic flight over the Himalayas
Trekking and mountain climbing is a magic experience not to be missed in Nepal, but if this kind of extreme sport is not for you opt for a panoramic flight instead.
This way, you get to experience the true allure and magic of the Himalayas from the comfort of a plane.
Many travel agencies in Nepal offer airplane tours that allow you to see the most majestic peaks on Earth up close. These tours are without a doubt some of the top things to do in Nepal. It is an experience that you are bound to remember forever.
Walk through the City of Beauty
Patan’s old Sanskrit name is Lalitpur, which means City of Beauty, and the massive architecture of the ancient city truly is a thing of beauty.
In the heart of the city lies Patan Durbar Square, it is an architectural wonder that truly embodies Newar architecture. The square which includes several ancient temples is a UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Pay a visit to Everest
The highest peak in the world, Mount Everest is by far the most popular tourist attraction in Nepal.
Even if you will not attempt to climb the mountain, very few people do so anyway, you should at least check some of the trekking trails at the base of the mountain. There are some beautiful villages at the base of the mountain that you can visit, there is also Sagarmatha National Park which is a Unesco World Heritage Site.
