Best Places to Visit in Nepal

Nepal's valleys, beautiful scenery, and vibrant culture are renowned worldwide. Everywhere you go, you'll be greeted with a bit of history and the majesty of nature and many lush forests and mountains. Nepal, known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers a variety of attractions for every traveler. Some of the best places to visit include the Kathmandu Valley with its historic Durbar Squares, Pokhara's lakeside charm, and the Everest Base Camp trek, offering breathtaking Himalayan views. 

Yet more, the deeply rooted traditional cultures and rituals of Nepal are another aspects most travelers love to see while in Nepal. Keeping people's preference of traveling and interest, peruse our list of 21 best places to visit in Nepal.

Plan your adventure with our list of the best places to visit in Nepal for a luxe vacation.

First, let's start with major attractions in the Kathmandu valley.

Top Attractions of Kathmandu valley - Best places to visit in Kathmandu valley

Kathmandu Valley boasts a rich tapestry of historical and religious sites, making it a major tourist destination. Some of the top attractions include Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Temple, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square. 

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Location: Kathmandu, Nepal; Why people visit this place in Nepal: Ancient royal palace complex rich in history and Newar architecture; Reason to visit : Whispers of kings, echo through carved courtyards.

Kathmandu Durbar Square: A popular tourist destination in Kathmandu, Nepal,

Kathmandu Durbar Square is a landmark attraction located in the heart of the capital city of Kathmandu. The palace, which once used to be the abode of Nepal royals, is now a royal museum, and the whole palace is a world heritage site under UNESCO. The heritage site is surrounded by ancient Newari architecture, grand temples, shrines, monuments, statues, and the old royal palace. All the more, the heritage site is lively and vibrant, with domestic and international visitors visiting its corners. Also, the temples are always busy with worshippers performing pujas. The place is constantly reverberating with travelers and shoppers, which is impressive to witness. Thus, because of its rawness and historical affluence, Kathmandu Durbar Square, without any doubt, is Nepal's best place to visit. Visitors can witness the Living Goddess Kumari, a young girl revered as a deity, during special hours.  With over 50 temples within its boundaries, Durbar Square is known as a "Museum of Temples".

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Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Location: Bhaktapur, Nepal; Why people visit this place in Nepal: Living museum of medieval art, culture, and Newar craftsmanship; Reason to visit: Time stands still, beneath brick temples and golden spires.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square: A highly visited place in Nepal

Another fantastic world heritage site of Nepal is Bhaktapur Durbar Square. The durbar square, which once used to be home to the Malla dynasty, is one of the attractive and best places to visit in Nepal for its enthralling aesthetic beauty and incredible history. The durbar squares embody the traditional artworks performed by the locals in its significant buildings. These medieval heritage sites allow travelers to gaze at the remarkable architecture, the exquisite wood carvings, and the metal crafts. Along with the incredible artworks of Bhaktapur, the heritage site's archaic look is what most travelers find attractive and prefer visiting Bhaktapur. It's a place where you can explore the history and artistry of Nepal, as well as witness the daily life and traditions of the local people. The square is renowned for its stunning wood carvings, particularly in the Fifty-Five-Window Palace and other buildings. Nyatapola, this five-story pagoda-style temple is a true architectural masterpiece and a symbol of Bhaktapur. The square offers a chance to experience the local customs, traditions, and daily life of the Newari people, the indigenous population of Bhaktapur.

Two in one Package: Bhaktapur and Patan Durbar Square Tour

Patan Durbar Square

Location: Patan, Nepal; Why people visit this place in Nepal: Renowned for intricate temples, royal courtyards, and exceptional Newari artistry; Reason to visit: Stone gods watch, as artisans whisper through centuries.

Patan Durbar Square: Famous for intricately carved temples, courtyards, and statues reflecting Newari artistry

Last on the list of world heritage sites of Kathmandu valley is Patan Durbar Square. Patan Durbar Square is a captivating destination in Nepal, renowned for its rich history, intricate architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Home of the Malla dynasty, the durbar square preserves the artistically designed temples all within the palace area. Also, the museum within the palace has a vast fine collection of metal crafts, wood carving preserved from the precious Malla-era throne. In the Durbar Square is the beautiful Krishna temple built entirely of stone. The temple is esteemed amongst Hindu followers thus is the central Krishna shrine. The square is a treasure trove of Newari architecture, featuring intricately carved temples, palaces, and courtyards. Recognized for its historical and cultural significance, it's a must-visit for any traveler interested in preserving heritage. Discover the beauty of Sundari Chowk, a courtyard with wood carvings and handicrafts, including a waterspout, idols, and a replica of the Krishna Mandir.  Experience the hustle and bustle of the square, with local vendors selling various goods and street performers showcasing their talents. Overall, Patan Durbar Square is a remarkable terracotta temple that is definitely worth a visit.

Best places to visit around Kathmandu Valley: Nepal Tourist places

Nagarkot

Location: Nagarkot, Nepal; Why people visit this place in Nepal: Famous for panoramic Himalayan views and breathtaking sunrise vistas; Reason to visit: Mountains breathe light, as dawn paints the distant peaks.

Nagarkot:  A popular hill station near Kathmandu, Nepal

Sightseeing in Nepal only gets better with a short overnight or multi-day tour to Nagarkot. Nagarkot is a popular hill station near Kathmandu, Nepal, renowned for its stunning views of the Himalayas, particularly Mount Everest. The hill station is beloved as a hiking destination around Kathmandu and is praised for breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks of Nepal. It's a prime destination for experiencing panoramic sunrises and sunsets, as well as for those seeking a peaceful escape from the city.  Besides enjoying the finesse of Mother Nature and capturing riveting mountain scenery, the place is also excellent for social interaction. Nagarkot is about 28 km away from the central city-Kathmandu, about 2 hours’ drive away. But the demeanor about the place is utterly different despite its proximity to the capital city. Tourists can explore nearby towns, learn about local customs, and experience the unique culture of the region. Hence, it is one of Nepal's best places to visit to behold the absolute mesh of nature and culture.

Discover Kathmandu and Nagarkot: Best Tourist Places of Nepal

Langtang Region

Location: Langtang Region, Nepal; Why people visit this place in Nepal: Known for serene valleys, Tibetan culture, and close-up Himalayan trekking; Reason to visit: Valleys hum low, where mountains meet the sky’s silence.

Langtang Valley: A popular destination for short trekking in Nepal

For a short yet exciting Himalayan experience, the Langtang region of Nepal is the perfect destination. It is one of the ideal locations for trekking because of its proximity to the capital city. Besides its close relations and accessibility, the region, in general, is the most alluring place on earth to be. The stunning landscape and the intricate indigenous Tamang and Sherpa cultures are additional features of the Langtang region. Langtang is an ideal region to seek Himalayan magnificence and to experience cultural generosity. The area offers several trekking routes for people interested in exploring its incredible glacial lakes and mountains.

Langtang Region Trekking: Not too far nor too short. Best place to enroll

Best places to visit around the Everest region: Places to visit in Nepal

The Everest region offers numerous incredible places to visit, each with its unique charm and beauty. Some of the best include the Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, and the stunning Gokyo Lakes. The Everest region also features the breathtaking Sagarmatha National Park, where you can witness diverse wildlife and landscapes. For a unique experience, consider the Everest High Passes trek or the Gokyo Ri viewpoint.

Sagarmatha National Park and Everest Base Camp

Everest Base Camp: Nepal Iconic place to visit

Sagarmatha is a remarkable region dominated by Mount Everest, the highest peak globally, with sparkling cliffs, glaciers, and deep valleys (8,848.86 m). Along with being home to the impressive mountains of Nepal, the national park is also home to several rare and endangered species. The national park shelters snow leopards, pandas, and many more rare species. Besides, as much as the national park is home to a wide assortment of flora and fauna, the national park grounds are also home to legendary Sherpas. Their unique culture and traditions add further interest, which gives the park the status of the best place to visit in Nepal. And the Everest Base Camp trek is one of the best treks in Nepal.

Ever in doubt which place to visit or travel in Nepal? Go for Everest Base Camp. Name defines itself.

Gokyo Lake

Location: Gokyo, Nepal; Why people visit this place in Nepal: High-altitude glacial lakes renowned for their turquoise beauty and Everest panorama; Reason to visit: Still waters dream, beneath the gaze of sleeping giants.

Gokyo Lake: Stunning Natural beauty of Nepal

Gokyo Lakes is one of Nepal's most famous lakes. These Gokyo Lakes are located in the west of the most renowned Himalayan Khumbu region. The sparkling turquoise lakes of Gokyo are just stunning. After walking to the Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes can be visited by adding five more days to the route. The lakes are surrounded by outstanding views of the mountains in the Everest region. People mostly trek to Gokyo Lake for its unmatched scenery of Cho Oyu, Everest, and Lhotse to Makalu from Gokyo Ri is simply breathtaking. Also, another perk of visiting Gokyo Lake is the Ngozumpa glacier, the largest glacier in the country. Overall, it is a magnificent journey; thus is one of Nepal's best places to visit.

Best side trip around the Everest Region, Nepal

Arun Valley in the Makalu region

Off-beaten trails in Nepal are perfect for those who seek to enjoy the calmness and serenity of nature. Arun Valley is one such place. As part of the Makalu trek, Arun valley is a beautiful country with unspoiled nature and culture. It shares very close proximity with the Everest region but is different from the commercial area. Trekking in this region allows you to meander through traffic less but densely forested paths, tasting refined Sherpa culture. Arun valley of Makalu is best for the daredevil who loves traversing nature and mountains in solitude.

Best places to visit in West Nepal: Best tourist places to visit in Nepal

Annapurna Region

Annapurna Region: A famous and beautiful hiking place

The Annapurna region is Nepal's most diverse and popular trekking destination. It is the focal point for the area of Annapurna, the mountain range comprising Annapurna I, the first of the 8,000 m high peaks to be scaled. Dhaulagiri, another 8,000-meter giant massif Annapurna I, also lies in the area. This majestic region offers views of green, rich fields and undisturbed natural forests, snow-capped mountains, and encounters with a diverse ethnic group combine to make the Annapurna trek one of the most rewarding treks in Nepal. There are many trekking routes available for interested trekkers to embark on a trekking journey in Nepal. Among many treks, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is one of the best hikes in Nepal.

Looking for a rewarding place with splendid beauty in Nepal territory? Choose Annapurna Base Camp Hike

Pokhara

Location: Pokhara, Nepal; Why people visit this place in Nepal: Gateway to the Annapurna region, known for serene lakes and mountain reflections; Reason to visit: Lakeside dreams, mirror peaks in morning mist.

Pokhara, Nepal: A tourist attraction of Nepal

Picturesque Pokhara sits on the edge of tranquil Fewa Lake with towering Annapurna standing tall in the backdrop. A visit to Pokhara promises a quiet and peaceful time. Thus many prefer to visit this charming little town in the west of Nepal. A vacation here includes spending time admiring Lakes, exploring trendy bars and restaurants, meandering through bustling cities, and partaking in adventurous sports such as paragliding, bungee jumping, etc. Travelers can easily spend three days to one week in Pokhara exploring its beautiful places before going on long and vigorous trekking trails surrounding Pokhara.

Visit the Tourism Capital of Nepal: Get a full-day sightseeing tour in Pokhara

Poon Hill

Location: Ghorepani, Nepal; Why people visit this place in Nepal: Popular short trek offering sweeping Himalayan views and vibrant rhododendron forests; Reason to visit: Sunrise dances, across Annapurna’s golden-crowned horizon.

Ghorapani Poon Hill: Amazing place of Nepal to visit

When life feels too hectic, for a quick refreshing break, Nepalese head to Poon Hill. This is why Poon Hill is the most popular trekking destination in Nepal for short treks and quick gateways. Besides offering majestic mountain spectacle, this journey is socially engaging as well. The trail is suitably aligned with plenty of houses providing services to travelers. Overall, the 360-degree view of Annapurna massif during golden sunrise and sunset is the best part of the place for which people keep on visiting this place.

Family friendly and best panoramic place to visit while you are in Nepal, Ghorepani Poon Hill

Tilicho Lake

Location: Manang, Nepal; Why people visit this place in Nepal: One of the world’s highest lakes, nestled amid rugged Himalayan terrain; Reason to visit: Sky meets soul, where silence guards sapphire waters.

Tilicho Lake: Incredible journey in Nepal

Tilicho Lake, at an altitude of (4,949m) is a well-known place for incredible trekking journeys in Nepal. A trip to Tilicho Lake is exhilarating, thrilling, and rewarding. Tilicho Lake trek displays a scenic view of much of the eastern side of the epic world-famous Annapurna circuit with sublime natural beauty, cultural and traditional values, stunning waterfalls and running clean water streams, and attractive floras and fauna. The rocky trails, barren hills, and hiking through narrow ways make the journey more or less challenging. But the rewarding landscapes give meaningful joy to accept the geographical hindrances.

One of the world’s highest lakes, Tilicho: Amazing Tilicho Lake Trip with Nepal Hiking Team

Upper Mustang

Location: Upper Mustang, Nepal; Why people visit this place in Nepal: A forbidden kingdom rich in Tibetan culture, desert cliffs, and ancient cave dwellings; Reason to visit: Winds carve tales, through timeless walls of Lo.

Upper Mustang: A captivating destination in Nepal

Upper Mustang presents an exceptionally particular and novel condition contrasted with the remainder of Nepal. While a large portion of the trekking destination in Nepal offers a verdant forest, Mustang parades eroded slopes and excellent stone arrangements, which is different from the other trekking regions of Nepal. It is additionally ideal for explorers who are searching for a segregated trekking experience. Antiquated Buddhist religious communities and terrific perspectives on the Annapurna Range are the significant attractions of this trek.

Looking for an exceptional trip beyond the Himalayas in Nepal

Samaguan in Manaslu Region

Samagaun is a medieval Himalayan village settled on mountains such as Manaslu and Mount Himalchuli. This picturesque settlement with just 200 households is a remote village but a hub for trekkers embarking on an adventurous Manaslu circuit trek. The culture and the natural elegance of the towns are incredible and inspiring. The culture, rituals, and traditions of Samagaun are unique from the typical Nepalese culture. A visit to Samagaun is exploring different sides of Nepal hidden in the majestic Manaslu Himal.

Those who have ventured know how good the Manaslu Trek is; Nepal's top-visited place in recent times

Bandipur

Bandipur, a Newar town with its ancient history still intact, is a hilltop village. Travel the historical path of Dumre Bazar to a city that has barely changed across its verdant forests. Well preserved Bandipur welcomes visitors to its unique offer: rich mountain history, mountain views, and several walking spots. In contrast to most traded posts in the Nepal hills, Bandipur has held its age-old qualities of culture - temples, shrines, holy grottoes, countless festivals, and a Newari architecture that goes back to ancient Kathmandu Valley.

Tansen

Tansen's old hill town in this area provides a calmer environment where time steadily passes, and the restorative lifestyle is contagious. Walkthrough the streets to see an entirely different life from the urban cities surrounding this typical town. Exploring the Shreenagar Hills or hiking for the Rani Mahal on the Kali Gandaki River for a day, Tansen displays ancient Newari culture. Centuries earlier, Newar's art and design merchants from Kathmandu returned to Tansen and later became the locals. Tansen's picturesque town is the local's favorite destination to spend some quality time away from busy city life.

Lumbini

Location: Lumbini, Nepal; Why people visit this place in Nepal: Birthplace of Lord Buddha, revered pilgrimage site with monasteries and sacred gardens; Reason to visit: Peace begins here, where the Buddha first breathed light.

Lumbini: A highly significant spiritual site of Nepal

Lumbini is the Buddha's birthplace, one of the world's most important spiritual sites, and attracts Buddhist pilgrims worldwide. Today you can visit over twenty-five Buddhist monasteries built by diverse countries from Vietnam to France, study Buddhism, meditate, and visit the birthplace within the sacred Mayadevi Gardens. It is a great place to spend time and to seek inner peace.

Peace begins here, where the Buddha first breathed light. Stroll around the legendary Garden of Lumbini.

Best National Parks of Nepal for Jungle Safari

Chitwan National park

Location: Chitwan, Nepal; Why people visit this place in Nepal: UNESCO-listed sanctuary famed for jungle safaris and rare wildlife encounters; Reason to visit: Wild hearts roam, where rivers cradle the ancient forest.

Chitwan National Park:  A great place to visit in Nepal

Nepal's first national park: Chitwan national park is located in the Terai Plains of Chitwan, at the foot of the Mahabharata Scale. In the jungles of the Chitwan, tourists can enjoy the natural wilderness via a Jeep safari, a quiet canoe ride, or by going on a nature walk. Going on a jungle walk or safari to witness wildlife roaming freely is a truly remarkable experience. At the end of the day, add to the essence of the ultimate jungle experience by unwinding next to a large campfire, watching the mesmerizing Tharu stick dance, and listening to their soothing folk songs. Chitwan National Park is full of incredible experiences and perfect for a relaxing break. And for that very reason, many travel to Chitwan national park.

Chitwan National Park Package - 2025

Bardia National Park

Location: Bardiya, Nepal; Why people visit this place in Nepal: Remote wildlife haven known for tigers, elephants, and untouched jungle experiences; Reason to visit: Silence prowls deep, where the wild still rules free.

Navigate the silent jungles of Bardia and experience pristine conservation areas in the Terai region. Housing diverse species of flora and fauna of the national park, nature lovers are attracted to its wilderness. One-horned rhino, royal Bengal tiger are some of the endangered animals that freely roam around its ground. Some of the other species are buffalo, swamps, blackbucks, and gharials. All the more, for nature's beguiling beauty, people traverse the jungle of Bardia national park. Waking up early in one of the huts of the resort to witness herds of deer roaming in the wilderness is something you get to experience here. Hence, for the surreal encounter, most consider Bardia as one of the best places in Nepal.

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Best Places to visit in East Nepal: Nepal's Beautiful places

Janakpur

Walkthrough historic Mithila to learn about Southern Nepal's Terai culture and visit the grand temple of Ram Janaki in the center of the district, where the iconic Hindu Ramaya style is alluded to. The temple is the city's principal attraction and attracts many tourists as well as pilgrims. With being sacred sites of Nepal, Janakpur flaunts the vibrant Mithila arts in the walls of Janakpur Dham. Also, the place is worth a visit because Janakpur is so different from most cities in the mid-hills of Nepal. On the whole, for its fascinating culture and artistic background, Janakpur is one of the best places to visit in Nepal.

Ilam

Famous for its vast tea garden, Ilam is the excellent gateway from the bustling city. This touristic town thrives with different flavors of tea and a pristine landscape made up of sloping tea gardens. Besides, Ilam is one of the wealthier in cultural diversity, natural landscape than any other district of Nepal. Similarly, people love walking amidst the tea garden of Ilam as it allows them to reconnect with Mother Nature. Altogether Ilam is the favorite destination for locals to unwind from their hectic life amidst the lush tea gardens and tea estates.

Last Words 

The above list introduces you to the places you should not miss while visiting Nepal. These places are much more beautiful and incredible than the justification that this short overview gave here. Once you find yourself in these locations, you will understand why these destinations are the best places to visit in Nepal.