One of the writers of Lonely Planet described Nepal as a place where ‘there is always another adventure,’ and one couldn’t agree more. Nepal is full of opportunities, not only those that deal with adventure but in every aspect, right from a pilgrimage to sightseeing. This bustling tourist destination is something that can push your limits, surprise you sometimes and make you fall in love with it on several occasions. However, to get the best of this country may need a few trips but one can still manage to stuff one visit with multiple hues of Nepal if planned right. Here are top places to visit in this ethereal country that can make each trip of yours here memorable.
Pokhara
Sitting beside the scenic Lake Phewa, Pokhara is the perfect leisure destination in Nepal. No, don’t consider the place to be boring with nothing to do other than enjoying the view of the lake and the surroundings or spending leisure hours in the luxe hotel you booked. Pokhara is popular as the ‘Gateway to Annapurna Circuit,’ and it offers an incredible opportunity for paragliding like no destination can, and yet it maintains its poise and tranquility to serve as one travel places in Nepal that you cannot ever forget. The River Seti that flanks Pokhara also give the adventure lovers the chance to enjoy thrilling white water river rafting. There are also several treks for which this beautiful destination in Nepal is the base. So, the bottom line is Pokhara is a must-visit and it would be a crime to miss out on this one of its kind places.
Kathmandu
Every capital city in the world is touristy and has plenty to engage visitors. And the same goes for Kathmandu as well, this capital of Nepal offers a glimpse of the country’s different aspects making travelers even more greedy for exploration. Kathmandu and its nearby destination, Thamel are considered ideal base for adventure/trekkers and those wanting to enjoy the view of the famous Mount Everest. Kathmandu is also the best place to buy all your trekking and mountain climbing gears. Apart from it, the city is ideal for a pilgrimage tour, it is here the Hindu’s most revered temple, Pashupati Nath is situated. It also houses exquisite and sacred Buddhist shrines like that of Boudhanath and Swayambhunath. Kathmandu is also the best place for trying the Nepali cuisine, witnessing the traditional craft, practicing and learning yoga and meditation. It is from here, the flying tour to Mount Everest is conducted.
Nagarkot
Want the best views of the Himalayan Range from Nepal? Nagarkot is the place for you. Surreal and strategic, this hill station of Nepal promises breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains not only from the viewpoints but from the windows of your hotel room as well. Situated at a short distance from Bhaktapur and in the suburb of Kathmandu Valley, Nagarkot is a picturesque destination that allows you savor every mood of the Himalayas. The place is famed for its stunning sunrise and sunsets as well. It can also pass as a honeymoon destination in Nepal with such dreamlike settings and views on offer.
Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur boasts rich architecture and imposing Hindu temple, though many suffered demolition due to the tragic earthquake of 2015. One can still find enough temples and edifices to mesmerize with their exquisite architecture and art. Bhaktapur Durbar Square is one of the best places to see the excellent architecture and carvings of the temple. Apart from temple hopping, a traveler would like the shopping experience here. Bhaktapur is known for souvenirs, pottery, puppets, masks, and cultural handicrafts, which leave visitors spoilt for choice when it comes to shopping in Nepal.
Patan (Lalitpur)
One of the three royal cities of Nepal, Patan or Lalitpur or Yala is something to feast your eyes on. Patan is a famous tourist place in the country and is primarily known for its rich architecture, fantastic wood carvings and an air of spirituality. It is believed before the disastrous earthquake of 2015, Patan housed more than 1200 monuments, each unique in its way. However, there still are enough tourist attractions to relish. Most people prefer a day-trip here from Kathmandu since it is proximity to the capital, it would be nice to stay two or more days to enjoy the beauty of its courtyards and squares at a leisurely pace.
Lumbini
Whether you are a theist or not, Lumbini touches your soul in a very special way. Believed to be the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Lumbini is a pilgrimage destination in Nepal but it surely impresses even the atheist with its monastery and peaceful environ. This sacred place, even though can be covered in one day, it has so much to offer to those who are willing to spend a day or two to gradually explore its beauty. The main attraction here is the Maya Devi Temple, which is situated amidst a large park that comprises of lakes and monasteries.
Janakpur
Janakpur is a place that you would not want to miss in Nepal if you enjoy witnessing a blend of history, culture, and religion. Believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama’s consort, Sita and also the destination where the two got married, Janakpur holds a lot of religious importance for Hindu devotees. Mostly Janakpur is seen as a Hindu pilgrimage destination but it is a perfect place to imbibe a rich Maithili culture and explore its rich art and its various forms.
Dharan
Dharan is a beautiful city, which is located at the foothills of the Mahabharata Range. The city is divided into two parts with one area dotted with banana plants, bamboo-forested hills, and rustic shacks, while the other side has countryside feel, with quiet streets lined with posh bungalows, neat pavements, and a country club with a golf course indeed making it one of the must-visit during Nepal tour. The two areas are divided by a dusty and crowded market that has a lot of offer to a shopaholic. Dharan is also recognized as a Shaktipeetha, a place where one of the limbs of Sati, the consort of Lord Shiva fell. Thus, Dharan is also a Hindu pilgrimage along with a hotspot for nature lovers.
