Why visit Nepal?
Nepal is a land of towering peaks, layered valleys, and historic towns where daily life unfolds against the Himalayas. You find a blend of mountain adventure, heritage architecture, and warm hospitality in a compact, memorable destination.
What to expect
Most journeys centre on Kathmandu, with its bustling streets and UNESCO-listed squares, then stretch to Pokhara by the lakeside or towards the trekking towns of the Annapurna and Everest regions. You can mix cultural sightseeing with gentle hikes or full expeditions.
Plan your trip
You can base yourself in Kathmandu as a starting point for the rest of Nepal or the wider Himalayan region. From here, domestic flights and scenic drives link you to national parks, hill towns, and mountain viewpoints throughout your stay.
Discover Nepal
Discover Nepal
Top experiences in Nepal
Explore Kathmandu Durbar Square
Walk among ornate palaces, carved wooden temples, and lively courtyards in the historic heart of Kathmandu.
Stroll the lanes of Thamel
Browse trekking gear shops, cafés, and handicraft stores in Kathmandu’s most vibrant neighbourhood.
Visit Swayambhunath hilltop complex
Climb to a hilltop complex for sweeping city views and exquisite architecture overlooking the Kathmandu Valley.
Day trip to Patan and Bhaktapur
Discover intricate stonework, brick squares, and traditional workshops in the valley’s historic sister cities.
Take a scenic mountain flight
Board a short scenic flight from Kathmandu for close-up views of Himalayan peaks on a clear morning.
Relax by a lakeside retreat in Pokhara
Combine gentle walks, boating, and mountain views in this laid-back city at the foot of the Annapurnas.
Go wildlife spotting in a national park
Head south from Kathmandu to the Terai plains for safaris through forests and grasslands rich in wildlife.
Experience Nepal’s way of life
Getting around
From Kathmandu, you can travel by domestic flight to major regional hubs or take scenic but slower road journeys through the hills. Pre-arranged private transfers and local taxis are common for day trips and valley exploration.
Local life & culture
Daily life in Nepal flows through busy bazaars, small family-owned shops, and neighbourhood tea stalls. You notice a strong sense of community, seasonal festivals, and distinct character between the mountain towns, the Kathmandu Valley, and the southern plains.
Where to unwind
You can unwind in garden guesthouses in Kathmandu, peaceful lakeside hotels in Pokhara, or eco-lodges near national parks. Yoga retreats, gentle walks to hill viewpoints, and quiet courtyards offer easy ways to slow your pace.
A taste of Nepal
National dishes & specialties
Traditional Nepali meals often feature rice, lentils, and seasonal vegetables, with regional variations from the hills to the plains. Momos, warming soups, and hearty plates are popular in Kathmandu and trekking hubs alike.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Kathmandu, especially around Thamel and the city’s main boulevards, you find casual cafés, bakeries, and eateries serving both Nepali and international flavours. Modern restaurants in the valley’s main cities reflect local ingredients with contemporary touches.
Signature & scenic dining
Rooftop terraces in Kathmandu offer city and valley views with relaxed dining, especially at sunset. In places like Pokhara and hill towns, you can enjoy meals overlooking lakes, rice terraces, or distant Himalayan peaks.
Retail therapy in Nepal
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Kathmandu offers a growing number of compact malls and lifestyle complexes with fashion, electronics, and everyday essentials. These modern centres sit alongside more traditional shopping streets and arcades.
Markets & local crafts
Kathmandu’s old quarters are known for handmade crafts, including textiles, metalwork, and woodcarving. In Pokhara and other regional towns, smaller markets sell local souvenirs, trekking accessories, and everyday goods.
Evening retail scene
In areas like Thamel, shops and stalls often stay open into the evening, creating a lively street atmosphere. Lit signboards, music from cafés, and late-opening stores make it easy to shop after a day of sightseeing.
Best time to visit Nepal
Peak season: March to May and October to November typically bring clear skies and comfortable conditions, with average temperatures around 15–25°C (59–77°F) in Kathmandu, ideal for city visits and trekking.
Shoulder season: December to February is cooler, with Kathmandu averages around 4–18°C (39–64°F) and colder temperatures in the hills, suiting those who prefer quieter trails and crisp mountain views.
Low season: June to September is the monsoon period, with higher humidity, rain, and temperatures often between 20–30°C (68–86°F) in the lowlands, bringing lush landscapes but reduced mountain visibility.