Nepal offers snow-capped Himalayan peaks, layered valleys, and ancient cities rich in art and architecture. You find trekking, wildlife, and living heritage all within a compact, welcoming country.
Discover Nepal
Discover Nepal
Why visit Nepal?
What to expect
Most journeys begin in Kathmandu, with its historic squares and lively neighbourhoods, before extending to Pokhara for mountain views and lakeside calm, or to Chitwan and Bardia for lowland jungles and wildlife. You can combine culture, adventure, and nature in a single trip.
Plan your trip
Nepal is ideal for both short cultural breaks and longer trekking holidays, with Kathmandu as the main gateway to the Himalayas and wider region. You can easily connect onward to hill towns, national parks, and mountain trailheads by domestic flight or road.
Top experiences in Nepal
Explore Kathmandu Durbar Square
Walk through courtyards, palaces, and temples that showcase centuries of Newar craftsmanship at the heart of the old city.
Soak in the views from Pokhara
Take a boat on Phewa Lake or hike to nearby viewpoints for sunrise panoramas of the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre.
Join a short Himalayan trek
Choose accessible multi-day routes in regions such as Annapurna or Langtang for mountain scenery, village life, and crisp highland air.
Search for wildlife in Chitwan National Park
Head into grasslands and forest by jeep or on foot in search of rhinos, deer, birdlife, and, with luck, elusive big cats.
Visit the sacred site of Lumbini
Stroll peaceful monastic zones, manicured gardens, and archaeological remains in this important historical pilgrimage destination.
Discover the royal cities of Bhaktapur and Patan
Admire intricate woodwork, brick architecture, and traditional squares in these well-preserved historic towns near Kathmandu.
Experience Himalayan sunrise viewpoints
Travel to hill stations such as Nagarkot or Sarangkot for early morning vistas as the first light hits the distant snow peaks.
Experience Nepal’s way of life
Getting around
The quickest way to cover long distances in Nepal is by domestic flight between cities such as Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Bharatpur. Tourist buses, private transfers, and local taxis connect valleys, towns, and trailheads, though road journeys can be slow due to mountain terrain.
Local life & culture
In cities and villages, daily life centres on neighbourhood squares, tea shops, and community courtyards, with strong traditions of craftsmanship and festival celebrations. You notice distinct cultural character between the Kathmandu Valley’s historic towns, lakeside Pokhara, and the rural lowlands.
Where to unwind
You can relax in garden courtyards and rooftop terraces in Kathmandu, or choose lakeside hotels and yoga retreats in Pokhara. For deeper calm, consider mountain lodges with clear night skies, or eco-lodges on the fringes of jungles and national parks.
A taste of Nepal
National dishes & specialties
Nepal is known for dal bhat sets of rice, lentils, and seasonal vegetables, as well as momo dumplings and hearty noodle soups, especially in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Mountain regions offer warming stews and highland specialities suited to cooler climates.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In areas such as Thamel and Patan in the Kathmandu Valley, and the lakeside district in Pokhara, you find casual eateries, cafés, and bakeries serving both local flavours and international favourites. These neighbourhoods make it easy to sample different regional styles in a relaxed setting.
Signature & scenic dining
Rooftop restaurants in Kathmandu and hilltop viewpoints around the valley pair panoramic skylines with memorable meals. In Pokhara, lakeside terraces and hotel dining rooms offer views of water and peaks that turn your dinner into a scenic experience.
Retail therapy in Nepal
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Modern shopping centres in Kathmandu, especially in neighbourhoods such as Durbar Marg and the city’s newer districts, offer international brands alongside local labels and outdoor gear. They are convenient places to pick up essentials before heading into the mountains or across the country.
Markets & local crafts
Street markets and small shops in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan sell handmade textiles, metalwork, woodcarvings, and paper goods. Pokhara’s lakeside area is also known for handicraft stalls and trekking shops where you can find souvenirs and practical gear.
Evening retail scene
As evening falls in Kathmandu and Pokhara, central streets and lanes stay lively with illuminated shopfronts, outdoor stalls, and late-opening boutiques. You can browse for last-minute gifts, artwork, or clothing in a relaxed after-dark atmosphere.
Best time to visit Nepal
Nepal has distinct seasons shaped by altitude and the monsoon. Peak season runs from October to November, with clear skies, pleasant days around 15–25°C (59–77°F) in Kathmandu, and excellent visibility for trekking. Shoulder season spans March to May, when temperatures climb to about 20–30°C (68–86°F) in the lowlands, rhododendrons bloom in the hills, and some haze may soften mountain views. Low season is June to early September, when the monsoon brings heavy rain, higher humidity, and temperatures of roughly 22–30°C (72–86°F), especially in the lowlands, while some high mountain routes can be affected by conditions.