Why visit Nepal?
Nepal is a country of soaring peaks, layered hills, and intricate cities where tradition shapes everyday life. You can expect dramatic scenery, warm hospitality, and a sense of adventure at every turn.
What to expect
Most journeys start in Kathmandu, a valley of historic squares, temples, and lively neighbourhoods. From here, you can head to Pokhara for lakeside calm, Chitwan for wildlife, or onward to the Himalayan trails that draw trekkers from around the world.
Plan your trip
Nepal fits easily into a longer journey through South Asia, with Kathmandu acting as a practical base. You can combine city stays with short mountain escapes, then continue on to nearby countries using well-established regional air links.
Discover Nepal
Discover Nepal
Top experiences in Nepal
Explore Kathmandu Durbar Square
Wander among palaces, courtyards, and intricate wood-carved buildings that tell the story of the Kathmandu Valley.
Stroll the alleys of Thamel
Browse trekking gear shops, cafes, and handicraft stalls in Kathmandu's most walkable and energetic district.
Visit Swayambhunath and Boudhanath
Climb to hilltop viewpoints and walk around vast stupas while taking in sweeping scenes of the Kathmandu Valley.
Unwind by Phewa Lake in Pokhara
Take a boat onto calm waters, watch the mountains reflect at sunrise, and enjoy the relaxed lakeside atmosphere.
Go wildlife spotting in Chitwan National Park
Join guided safaris through subtropical forest in search of rhinos, deer, and rich birdlife.
Trek in the Himalayan foothills
Choose from gentle village walks to multi-day routes, all framed by some of the world's highest peaks.
Shop for handicrafts in Patan
Discover metalwork, textiles, and art in this historic city known for its artisans and elegant architecture.
Experience Nepal's way of life
Getting around
Domestic flights link Kathmandu with major hubs like Pokhara and Bharatpur, saving time on mountain roads. For shorter distances, buses, private cars, and taxis help you move between valleys, towns, and trailheads.
Local life & culture
Life in Nepal moves to a rhythm shaped by festivals, family gatherings, and community traditions. In older neighbourhoods, you will see courtyards where neighbours meet, artisans at work, and layers of history in the buildings around you.
Where to unwind
You can slow down in lakeside towns, hillside retreats, or quiet valley guesthouses. Mountain viewpoints, gentle walking trails, and peaceful gardens offer places to pause and take in the landscape.
A taste of Nepal
National dishes & specialties
Across Nepal, you will often find rice or lentils served with seasonal vegetables and pickles, with subtle spices rather than strong heat. In the hills, simple, hearty dishes help you refuel after time outdoors.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Kathmandu, you can eat at family-run cafes, cosy bakeries, and modern restaurants serving both local and international flavours. Pokhara and other traveller hubs offer relaxed spots where you can try regional dishes alongside familiar favourites.
Signature & scenic dining
Roof terraces with city views, hilltop lodges, and lakeside venues turn meals into memorable moments. In many places, you can dine while looking out towards distant peaks or across bustling streets below.
Retail therapy in Nepal
Malls & lifestyle hubs
In Kathmandu, newer shopping centres bring together clothing, electronics, and everyday essentials in one place. These modern spaces sit alongside older streets filled with small, independent shops.
Markets & local crafts
Areas of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur are known for handicrafts such as metal statues, handwoven textiles, and paper goods. In trekking towns, gear shops sit beside stalls selling traditional souvenirs.
Evening retail scene
After dark, parts of central Kathmandu stay lively with lit shopfronts and open-fronted stores. In tourist areas, you can browse for last-minute gifts and clothing well into the evening.
Best time to visit Nepal
Peak season: October to November
These autumn months are generally clear and dry, with daytime temperatures around 15–25°C (59–77°F) in the Kathmandu Valley. Views of the mountains are often at their best.
Shoulder season: March to May
Spring brings warming temperatures of roughly 18–28°C (64–82°F) in many lower-altitude areas. Rhododendrons bloom in the hills, and trekking routes can be busy but still manageable.
Low season: June to September
The monsoon months are wetter, with temperatures often between 20–30°C (68–86°F) in the valleys. Rainfall can affect road conditions and views, but quieter trails and lush landscapes appeal to some travellers.