Nepal is a land of dramatic Himalayan peaks, medieval towns, and serene valleys, where adventure and quiet reflection sit side by side. You can explore mountain landscapes, heritage sites, and welcoming hill communities in a single journey.
Discover Nepal
Discover Nepal
Why visit Nepal?
What to expect
From the bustling streets and temples of Kathmandu to trekking routes in the Annapurna and Everest regions, Nepal offers both cultural immersion and outdoor exploration. Expect a relaxed pace of life, mountain views, and charming historic neighbourhoods.
Plan your trip
Nepal works well for both short city breaks focused on Kathmandu and longer itineraries that include trekking or wildlife safaris. It is also a rewarding gateway to the Himalayan region, with easy onward travel to nearby valleys and national parks.
Top experiences in Nepal
Explore Kathmandu Durbar Square
Wander through Kathmandu Durbar Square to see traditional Newar architecture, historic palaces, and courtyards that tell the story of the valley's royal past.
Visit Swayambhunath, the hilltop stupa
Climb up to Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, for sweeping views over Kathmandu and a close look at one of the valley's most iconic stupas.
Discover Patan's artisan lanes
Stroll through Patan's old quarters to find metalwork studios, stone carvings, and quiet courtyards, revealing the valley's living craft traditions.
Take a scenic Everest or Himalaya flight
Join a scenic mountain flight from Kathmandu for up-close views of snow-covered Himalayan peaks, including Everest on clear days.
Trek in the nearby hills
Choose a short hike to viewpoints such as Nagarkot or Dhulikhel from Kathmandu, where you can see layered ridges and distant mountains without a full expedition.
Relax in the Thamel district
Spend an evening in Thamel, Kathmandu's lively traveller neighbourhood, browsing shops, enjoying casual eateries, and soaking up the atmosphere.
Join a wildlife safari in the lowlands
Add a side trip from Kathmandu to the southern plains to experience national parks where you can look for rhinos, deer, and rich birdlife.
Unwind at garden cafes and courtyards
Take breaks in restored courtyard houses and leafy garden cafes around Kathmandu, ideal for escaping the city buzz between excursions.
Experience Nepal's way of life
Getting around
Within Nepal, most visitors base themselves in Kathmandu and then travel by domestic flights or tourist coaches to other regions. Taxis and ride services are common in the capital, while walking is often the best way to explore historic districts.
Local life & culture
Daily life in Nepal centres on neighbourhood squares, traditional festivals, and close-knit communities, especially in the Kathmandu Valley. You will notice a blend of age-old customs, artisan skills, and modern city living in busy urban quarters.
Where to unwind
Quiet courtyards in Kathmandu's old towns, hilltop lookouts on the valley rim, and lakeside retreats in other regions offer calm spaces to rest. Many guesthouses and hotels also feature rooftop terraces with mountain views where you can slow down after a day out.
A taste of Nepal
National dishes & specialties
You can try Nepal's everyday staples such as rice with lentils and vegetable sides, alongside hearty soups, dumplings, and seasonal mountain dishes. Kathmandu and the wider valley are good places to sample regional variations in a single trip.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Kathmandu, areas like Thamel and Patan offer casual eateries, bakeries, and cafes that serve both local fare and international favourites. You will find relaxed spots for quick lunches, coffee breaks, and family-friendly dinners within walking distance of main sights.
Signature & scenic dining
Rooftop restaurants around Kathmandu's old quarters pair city or valley views with carefully prepared menus. Some hotels and lodges also offer atmospheric dining in restored heritage buildings or gardens, ideal for lingering evening meals.
Retail therapy in Nepal
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Kathmandu has modern shopping centres with international brands, travel gear, and lifestyle stores, often combined with cinemas and cafes. They offer a convenient indoor alternative to the city's busy streets.
Markets & local crafts
In Kathmandu and Patan, narrow lanes are filled with shops selling textiles, metalware, paper goods, and handicrafts made by local artisans. Neighbourhood bazaars are ideal for finding handwoven pieces and small keepsakes to take home.
Evening retail scene
After dark, streets in central Kathmandu, especially Thamel, remain lively with illuminated shopfronts and late-opening boutiques. You can browse for souvenirs, outdoor gear, and accessories between dinner stops and evening walks.
Best time to visit Nepal
Peak season runs from October to November, when skies are generally clear, with daytime temperatures around 15–25°C (59–77°F) in the Kathmandu Valley, ideal for sightseeing and trekking views. Shoulder season covers March to May, bringing mild to warm days of roughly 18–28°C (64–82°F), blooming hillsides, and some haze, suiting cultural visits and shorter hikes. Low season typically falls from June to early September during the monsoon, with temperatures near 20–30°C (68–86°F), higher humidity, and frequent showers, which can affect mountain visibility and rural travel.