Why visit Nepal?
Nepal is a compact Himalayan nation where soaring peaks, medieval cities, and lush valleys sit side by side. You find a gentle pace of life, layered history, and welcoming communities in a landscape shaped by mountains and rivers.
What to expect
Most journeys begin in Kathmandu, a lively capital of narrow lanes, courtyards, and historic squares. From here, you can head to the lakeside town of Pokhara, jungle lowlands around Chitwan, or mountain gateways leading towards famous trekking routes.
Plan your trip
You can combine cultural sightseeing, soft adventure, and time in nature within one itinerary. Nepal also works well as a jumping-off point to explore the wider Himalayan region, with good connections onwards through major Asian hubs.
Discover Nepal
Discover Nepal
Top experiences in Nepal
Explore Kathmandu Durbar Square
Wander among intricately carved palaces and courtyards that showcase the rich royal heritage of the Kathmandu Valley.
Stroll around Boudhanath and Swayambhunath
Circle the vast Boudhanath stupa and climb to hilltop Swayambhunath for sweeping views over Kathmandu.
Unwind by Phewa Lake in Pokhara
Take a boat out on the calm lake, framed by hills and distant peaks, then relax in the cafes along the shoreline.
Go on a Himalayan scenic flight
Join a mountain flight from Kathmandu for close-up aerial views of snow-covered Himalayan ranges on clear mornings.
Visit the jungles of Chitwan or Bardia
Stay in a jungle lodge, take guided safaris, and learn about conservation efforts in Nepal's lowland national parks.
Walk historic towns of Patan and Bhaktapur
Discover beautifully preserved squares, temples, and traditional houses in these atmospheric valley cities near Kathmandu.
Trek short trails near the Annapurnas
Choose gentle multi-day walks from Pokhara for mountain vistas, village stays, and sunrise viewpoints without extreme altitudes.
Experience Nepal's way of life
Getting around
Most visitors travel between key cities such as Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Bharatpur by short domestic flights or tourist coaches. Within cities, taxis, ride-hailing, and local buses help you move between neighbourhoods and sights.
Local life & culture
Daily life often plays out in open squares, courtyards, and along busy main streets. You will notice strong traditions in crafts, festivals, and architecture, with distinct character between the mountain regions, valley towns, and lowlands.
Where to unwind
You can slow down in lakeside cafes in Pokhara, quiet garden courtyards in Kathmandu, or riverside lodges at the edge of the jungle. Mountain viewpoints and hillside retreats offer calm spaces to watch changing light over the Himalayas.
A taste of Nepal
National dishes & specialties
You will often see hearty rice or lentil-based sets served with seasonal vegetables and pickles across the country. Mountain regions may offer warming stews, soups, and hand-made dumplings suited to the cooler climate.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you find a mix of local eateries, bakeries, and contemporary cafes that are easy to drop into between sightseeing. Tourist areas usually offer a wide range of regional and international flavours so you can vary your meals each day.
Signature & scenic dining
Roof-top terraces in Kathmandu and Pokhara provide memorable views of city skylines or distant hills while you eat. Some lodges and boutique hotels in the mountains or jungle arrange atmospheric dinners with views of forests, rivers, or high peaks.
Retail therapy in Nepal
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Kathmandu has a growing number of modern malls and shopping centres where you can find clothing, electronics, and lifestyle brands. These are handy places to pick up last-minute essentials before or after time in the mountains.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional streets in Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur feature shops selling handicrafts, textiles, and handmade paper goods. In trekking hubs like Pokhara, you also find outdoor gear stores alongside stalls offering souvenirs and locally made items.
Evening retail scene
In popular neighbourhoods of Kathmandu and Pokhara, shops and small boutiques often stay open into the evening. You can browse for gifts, clothing, and crafts along lit pedestrian streets after a day of sightseeing.
Best time to visit Nepal
Peak season: October to November
These post-monsoon months usually bring clear skies and comfortable days around 15–25°C (59–77°F) in the valleys, ideal for trekking and sightseeing.
Shoulder season: March to May
Spring is generally warm, with valley temperatures around 18–28°C (64–82°F) and blooming hillsides, though haze can build later in the season.
Low season: June to September
The monsoon brings higher humidity, frequent rain, and warmer valley temperatures of about 20–30°C (68–86°F), which can limit views but keep landscapes lush.