Tours and Travels in Kathmandu

Tours and Travels in Kathmandu

Tours and Travels in Kathmandu is designed for those who are visiting Kathmandu for a very short period of time. Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal. You can explore thousands of years of culture here, while making your way through historic temples and monasteries that belong to Hindus and Buddhists alike.

Nepal Tours, Operated by a group of experienced entrepreneurs involved in the tourism industry for more than a decade, we will be pleased to assist you in making your trip to Nepal a memorable one.

Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour provides a close glimpse of the countrywith visits to plenty of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Katmandu, Lalitpur (Patan) and Bhaktapur, which are all cities within the Kathmandu Valley. The trip not only showcases the rich culture of the Nepalese people but also takes you back in time through its architectural marvels. During this trip we will also visit Nagarkot, a village in the hills of Bhaktapur, which is an ideal place for stunning Himalayan views.

The best places for tours & travels in Kathmandu.

#1: THE GARDEN OF DREAMS

The hustle and bustle of Kathmandu will get you down, so we recommend stepping into the tranquil neo-classical oasis, Garden of Dreams. Located just outside of Thamel, the Garden of Dreams is filled with pavilions, verandahs, fountains and a relaxing amphitheatre where you can chill out on one of the pillows provided.

There’s also the Kaiser restaurant which does a damn fine hamburger if you’re craving a western delicacy!

THE DETAILS

Location | Garden of Dreams, Kathmandu

Opening hours | 9:00am – 10:00pm every day

Entrance fee | NPR 200 for foreigners

 

#2: BOUDHANATH STUPA

A visit to Boudhanath stupa is a must if you really want to experience Kathmandu’s spiritual side. Thousands of pilgrims visit each day to walk around the central dome, spinning prayer wheels as they go; Tibetan monks chant mantras and pray in the surrounding monasteries while tourists take it all in.

THE DETAILS

Location | Bouddha

Opening hours | 9:00am – 17:00pm every day

Entrance fee | NPR 400 for foreigners

 

#3: SWAYAMBHUNATH STUPA

There may be a few stairs (365) and a heap of monkeys to navigate before you summit, but a visit to Swayambhunath (or the Monkey temple) is an essential experience in Kathmandu. Apart from the beautiful temple, this lofty hilltop also provides the best vistas of Kathmandu, perfect for a sunset snap.

THE DETAILS

Location | Swayambhu

Opening hours | 8:00am – 17:00pm every day

Entrance fee | NPR 200 for foreigners

 

#4: PASHUPATINATH TEMPLE

Pashupatinath, dedicated to the god Shiva, is one of the holiest sites in all of Hinduism and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. On the banks of the Bagmati river, Pashupatinath is also the location for many buddhist and Hindu cremations, so you’ll likely see one of these taking place on the banks of the river. It’s a pretty confronting sight but incredibly interesting to witness.

THE DETAILS

Location | Gausala

Opening hours | 4:00am – 09:00pm every day

Entrance fee | NPR 1000 for foreigners

Car Rent | NPR 1500

 

#5: PATAN DURBAR SQUARE

Patan Durbar Square is situated at the centre of the city of Lalitpur in Nepal. It is one of the three Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley, all of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. One of its attraction is the ancient royal palace where the Malla Kings of Lalitpur resided.

THE DETAILS

Location | Patan

Opening hours | 9:00am – 05:00pm every day

Entrance fee | NPR 1000 for foreigners

Car Rent | NPR 2000

 

#6: BHAKTAPUR DURBAR SQUARE

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is the plaza in front of the royal palace of the old Bhaktapur Kingdom, 1,400 metres above sea level. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Bhaktapur Durbar Square is located in the current town of Bhaktapur, also known as Bhadgaon, which lies 13 km east of Kathmandu.

THE DETAILS

Location | Bhaktapur

Opening hours | 9:00am – 05:00pm every day

Entrance fee | NPR 1500 for foreigners

Car Rent | NPR 3000

Best Time to Travel:
The best thing about the Kathmandu Tour is that you can take it any time of the season. Monsoon is from June to August with 80 percent of the rainfall only during this period. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the most pleasant seasons. Winters begin in December and last till February.

What to Eat in Kathmandu?
Many say Kathmandu has the most varied cuisine available in Asia. While you’re in Nepal, be sure to sample some local fare. We recommend you try daal (lentil soup), with bhat (rice), or a vegetable curry. Another staple is a Momo, which is a Tibetan style dumpling that uses Nepali spices.

WHERE TO STAY in Kathmandu
Kathmandu has a huge range of accommodation options to meet any budget. Most properties are located centrally, primarily around the Thamel district. Prices vary dramatically, depending on where you stay and when. The most common form of accommodation – guesthouses, will set charge between $5 – $60 per night and if you would like to stay in Luxury accommodation then will set charge between $200 – $360. If you’re travelling outside of high season, prices can drop, so always ask if any discount is applicable.

On the whole, accommodation in Nepal is pretty standard. Most places have a range of rooms, from budget to doubles with en suite. Beware, that cheaper accommodation is of a poor standard; if you’re backpacking, this might be okay, but otherwise, invest a few extra dollars for something nicer.

Best Kathmandu Travel Packages

Available Kathmandu Tour Package

Kathmandu Tour Package

3 Days in Kathmandu

This 2 nights 3 days Kathmandu tour package offers an excellent opportunity to explore the local culture, heritage and traditional
5.00 / 2 reviews
$ 380.00 $ 260.00
per person
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Real Kathmandu Tour

Real Kathmandu Day Tour

Real Kathmandu Day Tour is a unique single day tour in Nepal. Spend a day exploring the historic sights of
5.00 / 3 reviews
$ 450.00 $ 390.00
per person
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Everest Mountain Flight

Everest Mountain Flight

Scenic Mountain Flight to Mount Everest don’t actually circle the mountain, nor do they fly over Everest’s peak. Instead, you’ll
5.00 / 3 reviews
$ 220.00 $ 200.00
per person
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Nepal Holidays and Festivals

Nepal holidays and festivals concentrate on religious and cultural events on the Hindu and Buddhist calendars and involve traditional rituals, music and dance. Due to the number of diverse ethnic and tribal groups making up the population, the variety of celebrations is fascinating for visitors. Dashain in early September is the most important, surrounded by many other events, and the Tihar Hindu festival of lights is one of the loveliest.

Shree Panchami

This celebration of Saraswati, the goddess of learning and sister of the elephant god Ganesh, takes place in Nepal in January. Temple images are garlanded, presented with gifts and seven grains of rice are eaten by worshippers in order to gain wisdom. It’s the most auspicious time for weddings with countless processions on the streets, as the marriage is blessed by the goddess herself.

Ghode Jatra

Held in mid-March, Ghode Jatra is the horse race event of Tundikhel, with a grand horse parade honoring a victory over a dangerous demon crushed by the hooves of local fillies. Legend has it, the event keep the demon’s spirit from returning. Another race involves an intoxicated horse and drunk rider, with Nepalese townspeople cheering on the unsteady twosome. The rider desperately tries to hang on for as long a he can, causing universal merriment.

Holi

The joyous spring festival of Holi takes place in March, and is known as the feast of colors. Based on a victory over the female demon Holika, the celebrations last a week and are a time of eating, drinking and rejoicing in the streets to welcome the warmer weather. Citizens smear themselves with brilliant, powdered colors and throw the colors over passerby’s. Bonfires and more revels end the celebration.

Mata Tirtha Puja

Closely-knit families are a long-established tradition in Nepal, with the early May festival of Mata Tirtha Puja the Nepalese ‘Mothers Day’. Honored for their love and support with gifts, adult sons and daughters return to their family home to show appreciation.

Buddha Jayanti

Buddhist temples are packed with worshippers on Jayanti, the celebration of the Buddha’s birthday. Held in June on a full moon day, the Nepalese festival honors the Buddha’s birth, death, and attainment of enlightenment. Huge images of the god are displayed and parades of devotees praising his life and teachings take place.

Gaijatra

Every year in late August/early September, Gaijatra honors the god of death, Yamaraj. It’s one of the most popular festivals for its procession of cows led by every person who has lost a relative during the previous year. For Hindus, cows are holy and it’s believed the parade will help the souls of the departed journey to heaven.

Indra Jatra

Taking place in late August/early September for eight days, the combined Hindu and Buddhist festival of Indra Jatra happens in Kathmandu. A celebration of traditional Nepalese classical dance, each community performs its own unique sequences in honor of the king of heaven, Lord Indra. On the third day, the living goddess Kumari is paraded through the city on a chariot, the processional ending at Durbar Square.

Krishna Janmastami

Across Nepal, Sri Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, is celebrated on his birthday in September especially in Patan, home of the ancient Krishna Temple. Citizens huddle together all night long, keeping vigilant and chanting the various names of the god or singing traditional hymns. Flowers, food and money are offered to Krishna’s image in the gloomy main temple.

Dashain

Held over two weeks at the end of September, Dashain is Nepal’s most important festival, celebrated across the land and ending on the day of the full moon. Dashain honors the victory of the gods over a host of demons, based on tales in the Ramayana, after invoking the powers of the goddess Durga. Tantric rites are conducted as mother goddess temple offerings are made and specific rituals take place in all homes, towns and cities every day of the event.

Tihar

Tihar is the Nepalese version of the Hindu Festival of Lights, dedicated to the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi, and is the most dazzling of Nepal’s festivals. It takes place for five days in October, during which every home is lit up with sparkling oil lamps. The second day is known as ‘dogs’ day’ and every four legged friend is adorned with a floral garland, given a delicious meal and worshipped for its protection of the home. Cows are given similar treatment on the third day, as representatives of wealth.

Best Travel Tour Operators in Nepal

Tour Operators

Best Tour Operators and Travel Agencies in Nepal. Below you will find 10 of the best tour operators and travel agencies in Nepal offering in total 20 Nepal tours packages and holidays through-out Nepal. The top tour activities offered in Nepal are: adventure and sport activities, sightseeing, attractions, culture and history & Wildlife, landscapes and nature.

With over 25 years of experience, Nepal Tours values are efficient and reliable ground logistics. It then combines this with real experiences, getting travellers involved in the country (NEPAL), its culture, its people and its wildlife. The company only uses local guides, eat local food and stay in a home, lodge or hotel owned by locals.

Below are the top 10 tour operators in Nepal.

1

Nepal Tours

Nepal Tours is a specialist small group tour company providing top quality luxury holidays, short treks, pilgrimage tours, family holidays to the Nepal. We offer an exclusive and extensive range of escorted luxury tours, city packages, private guide cultural tours, honeymoon tours, 4wd adventures drive tours across Nepal, all at great prices. Explore all of Nepal Tour Packages.

Website: https://www.nepaltour.info
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +977 9851036473

2

Adventure Connexion

The official site of the Nepal’s greatest adventure travel company. Adventure Connexion offer a wide selection of small-group tours, high adventure treks & family friendly holidays. Established since 2009 and founded by two persons – Mr. RB Adhikari & Mr. Kulendra Baral, we are an award winning adventure travel company by TripAdvisor specializing in iconic locations and responsible travel.

Website: https://www.adventureconnexion.com
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +977 1 4002108

3

Annapurna Travels

Our main purpose is provide you the happiness you long for, emphasizing quality service with genuine Nepali hospitality and sincerity. All is arranged for you to plan a holiday to suit your every need. Your time with us can be as active or as relaxing as you please. It is our great pleasure to help you make the best use of any information you think may help us better serve you and fulfill your travel dreams.

Website: http://www.annapurnatravel.com
E-mail: navra[email protected]
Phone: +977 1 4222339

4

Yeti Travels

In a complex world of business travel management, you need a partner with a keen understanding of your rapidly evolving travel requirements. You need a business partner with the resources, technology and experience to meet your company’s objectives – while ensuring your travelers receive a consistently high level of service. With Yeti Travels Pvt Ltd, you will be partnering with an agile and experienced company who creates solutions to fit your travel needs. We look forward to you placing your trust in our ability.

Website: http://www.yetitravels.com/
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +977 1 4221234

5

Marcopolo Travels Nepal

A pioneering travel company, Marco Polo Travels, in collaboration of Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board, China National Tourism Office in Kathmandu and selected incoming tour operators in the region, offers outbound tours in the Nepalese market. The company that represents Star Cruises in Nepal also offers tours to Malaysia, Singapore, Indo-China and China to its customers.

Website: http://www.marcopolo.com.np
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +977 1 4247215

6

Natraj Tours & Travels

Natraj Tours and Travels was established in 1967 by Late Prajapati Prasai and Mrs. Sharda Prasai, pioneers in travel & tourism who made enormous contribution to the development of travel trade in Nepal. Started with a humble beginning, Natraj has always moved towards success strength by strength and is now considered as one of the trusted travel companies in Nepal.

Website: http://www.natrajtours.com
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +977 1 5261111

7

Jaya Travels and Tours

Customer care comes as the priority and we are always in the effort to provide our clients the best level of service they anticipate from us. We have been in business with many of the major National and International Organizations, Embassies, Government organizations and Renowned Corporate houses and share very good mutual relationship with each and every business houses due to which we have been provided numerous appreciation certificates & letters

Website: http://www.jayatour.com
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +977 1 246466

8

Social Tours

We are at the forefront of responsible travel in Nepal and have been nominated four times for the prestigious Responsible Tourism Awards in the UK (World Travel Mart). We play a lead role in the activities and pratices of the Sustainable Tourism Network in Nepal, MAST, and the Fringe RT Network worldwide. We initiate new networking and joint marketing efforts, such as the Green Circuit in the sub-continent, and design off-beat products in Nepal.

Website: https://www.socialtours.com
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +977 1 4219 865

9

Exodus Travels

At Exodus, we love adventure travel and always have. There’s something about the feeling of visiting a new country, culture or environment – whether that’s a mountain range, desert or jungle – that just can’t be beaten. We first took a group of travellers to the Himalaya over 40 years ago, and have since expanded to offer more than 500 itineraries across more than 90 countries. .

Website: https://www.exodus.co.uk
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +44 20 3811 4280

10

Peregrine Adventures

We are a company built by travellers for travellers. Take a walk around our offices and you’ll see the empty desks of people out on trips, or hear people swapping stories about a place they have just visited. Land at your destination and discover your tour leader is local to the region.

Website: https://www.peregrineadventures.com/en
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +61 3 8594 3902

Tips for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a hiking tour for 4-5 days in the Annapurna Mountain range located in Nepal. It actually needs a moderate level of fitness to complete this trek and the maximum elevation of this trek is 3,210 meters. Part of this trek is a natural trail that heads through the rhododendron forests with some rainforest-like flora all around. Other parts of this trek include stone staircases, which head from one village to another and therefore this route is used by both visitors and locals.

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is really popular as the costs are low, packing is easy and permits are also really easy to obtain. These are also the reasons why this mountain trail remains congested during the peak season.

Best things about the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek:
The trek is pleasant and it also follows a part of the earlier Trans-Himalayan Salt Trade Route. The views during the trek change from terraced rice fields, farms to gorges, waterfalls, and forests. There are also some amazing views of mountains along the way through clouds. The entire trek is hardly on the flat ground.

Sunrise from the Poon Hill:
The main highlight of this trek is the trip to Poon Hills. There at the elevation of 10,230 feet, one can get to see 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains. Besides, one can get to see the peaks like Annapurna, Tukuche, Dhaulagiri, Hiunchuli, Nilgiri, Gangapurna, Annapurna South and Macchapucchre or the Fish Tail from here. The views are amazing to justify the strenuous climb.

Travel itinerary:

  1. Drive to Nayapul and hike to Tikhedhunga: The Ghorepani trek starts with a few minutes’ drive to Nayapul through a beautiful landscape. This route mainly follows a lush green jungle and terraced grasslands along the rushing river. During the trek, the tourists have to walk through the Birethanti village (1,015m), therefore the north side of the Bhurung Khola and therefore up to the side area of the valley to Hille to reach Tikhedhunga at the height of 1570mm.
  1. Trek to Ghorepani: This day mainly includes a sudden ascent. On this day, the tourists need to go across the Tikhedhunga Khola through a cable bridge, therefore go downward and then go across the Bhurung Khola. After that, they have to climb a steep and long chain of stone footsteps to Ulleri. On the way to Ulleri, travelers can enjoy an amazing view of the snow-white peaks of Hiunchuli, Annapurnas, and Machhapuchhare. After that, the tourists have to climb more gently to Nanghethani through the rhododendron forest. It takes another hour of time to reach Ghorepani. It is a beautiful settlement situated on the ridgeline.
  1. On the next day, the tourists have to hike to the Poon Hill Viewpoint. From where they can enjoy a breathtaking view of sunrise. After watching the beautiful views, tourists can follow a wonderful forest trail through the oak and rhododendron woods to Deurali. Next, they have to climb through the steep woods for around twenty minutes to arrive at Tadapani.

Best time to go for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek:
Although trekking is possible all around the year, every season has some different advantages as well as attractions. The temperature in this hill also depends on the basis of the altitude range- lower the temperature, higher the altitude.

 

  1. December-February: These are the coldest times of the year and the temperature can often drop to -5°C at the higher altitudes. Despite being so cold, the sky remains really clear and the mountain views look the best. Because of the snowy weather, these months are not perfect for the beginner hikers, but the experienced hikers can continue.

 

  1. April-May: The trekking season mainly starts from April and the route becomes more beautiful with full blossom rhododendron of different colors like white, pink and red. Although the temperature remains cool at this time, the temperature starts rising. The sky remains really clear at these months, therefore the tourists can enjoy a great view of the mountains.

 

  1. September-October: This is the favorite time of trekking for the tourists due to the perfect climate and favorable weather condition. The sky remains really clear at these months, therefore the tourists can enjoy a great view of the mountains. These months are also the best time for the daytime trek. During this period, the weather also ranges from mild to warm.

 

  1. November: This is another popular season of trekking with a sparkling and crisp sky. The daytime temperature of this month is most stable from cool to mild conditions. But the nights remain cold. Therefore, the travelers need to be a bit careful.

 

How many days does it take to complete the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?
For the fit and young hikers, 4 days are perfect for completing the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. Guides often split the entire route into some manageable chunks and also explain the highlights of this trail along the way. But for the hikers, who have any physical limitations or who are not acclimated to the altitude, completing the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in 5 days works as a smarter bet.

 

Why choose a Nepal Tours website for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?
It is better to choose a Nepal Tour website for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek as this type of company mainly offers an adventurous, successful and memorable experience to all the hikers. With the devoted and excellent management team of this company, the main aim of this company is to offer a friendly, safe and sound environment where the hikers can enjoy their experience while being completely secured.

So, by choosing the company like “Nepal Tours”, you can get the best hiking experience while getting complete information about the cultures, tradition, flora and fauna and customs of the trekking area.

Best Places to Visit in Nepal

Kathmandu Pokhara Tour

Nepal, officially the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, is a landlocked country in South Asia with a population of 26.4 million. It is a multi-ethnic nation with Nepali as the official language. Kathmandu is the nation’s capital and largest city. Whether scaling the slopes of Mt. Everest or paying homage at the birthplace of the Buddha, a trip to Nepal is a top destination for many travelers. Situated along the Himalayan Mountain range between China and India in South Asia, the country boasts some of the most diverse landscapes on the planet, from snow-capped mountains to subtropical forests. Nepal’s culture is just as varied, filled with centuries-old temples and shrines, a profusion of colorful festivals and plenty of exotic wares to peruse and purchase.

From adrenaline-filled activities like mountaineering, kayaking and paragliding to serene strolls among medieval temples and hidden palaces, this country offers more memorable travel experiences than can be squeezed into a single visit. An overview of the best places to visit in Nepal:

1: Kathmandu Valley
#1 of Best Places To Visit In Nepal

Swayambhunath Stupa

The country’s cultural capital, Kathmandu is the place where most adventures in Nepal begin, as all flights from overseas land in the city’s airport. A crowded metropolis of more than 1 million inhabitants, Kathmandu is a chaotic mix of tourist shops, trekking agencies, hotels, restaurants, religious sites and artisan workshops. The city’s famous Durbar Square is still undergoing restoration after the recent earthquakes, but there are many intact sites well worth exploring. Set atop a forested hill, the ancient Buddhist complex of Swayambhunath is a can’t-miss attraction that offers sweeping views of the Kathmandu Valley.

2: Khumbu Region
#2 of Best Places To Visit In Nepal

Visit Nepal 2017

Each year, the determination to trek to the summit of Mt. Everest brings thousands of adventurous travelers to Khumbu, the Everest Region located in northeastern Nepal. The journey begins at the Lukla airstrip where a clear two-lane trail eventually leads hikers to Everest Base Camp. Located primarily within the Sagarmatha National Park, Khumbu is home to the Sherpa village of Namche Bazaar where most expeditions to the mountainous peaks are staged. The country’s foremost Buddhist center, the Tengboche Monastery, (Which is famous for family holidays to Everest Region) located in the Khumbu region. There’s a variety of comfortable accommodations available at the monastery, many of which offer stunning views of the tallest mountain on the planet.

3: Annapurna Circuit
#3 of Best Places To Visit In Nepal

Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit in northwest Nepal offers hikers an outdoor experience nonpareil. Showcasing the varied landscapes of the Annapurna Region, the classic trek leads travelers high into the Himalayas, across plunging gorges, over desert plateaus and through lush subtropical valleys dotted by terraced farms. The trek also passes by many religious sites and quaint villages. Starting just east of Pokhara, the journey takes about three weeks to complete though many trekkers walk half of it by flying out at Jomsom Airport. There is also the shorter but no less beautiful Annapurna Sanctuary Trek that takes around 8 to 12 days. Its one of the most popular treks in Nepal with lodges and tea stops at hourly intervals or less, until the highest sections at least.

4: Pokhara Valley
#4 of Best Places To Visit In Nepal

Pokhara

With its tranquil lakes, verdant shorelines and mountain views, Pokhara is a popular resort destination for travelers from around the world. Known as the gateway to the Annapurna region in northwest Nepal, the lakeside city offers respite to weary hikers, and provides opportunities for outdoor adventures too, ranging from leisurely paddle-boat rides to white-water rafting. The largest of Pokhara’s three lakes, Phewa Lake is lined with luxury hotels, restaurants, bars and shops. The lake also features an island with a temple dedicated to the goddess Barahi Bhagwati where ceremonies are held nearly every weekend.

5: Chitwan National Park
#5 of Best Places To Visit In Nepal

Chitwan Jungle Safari

One of the best wildlife-viewing destinations in Asia, the Chitwan National Park in south-central Nepal offers needed sanctuary for rare and endangered species like the Bengal tiger and one-horned rhinoceros. The chance for a close-up look at exotic wildlife, including elephants, leopards, Indian bison, rhinoceros and sloth bears, is the park’s greatest attraction. In addition to jeep tours, visitors can experience the park through jungle treks, elephant rides and canoe rides. Luxury lodging is available at the edge of the park, and the nearby village of Sauraha offers affordable accommodation.

6: Nagarkot
#6 of Best Places To Visit In Nepal

Kathmandu Chisapani Nagarkot Trek

Perfect for travelers who want to experience the beauty and majesty of the Himalayas without arduous physical activity, Nagarkot is best known for the views it offers of the mountains and the Kathmandu Valley. Perched on a high ridge to the northeast of Bhaktapur, the village of around 4,500 inhabitants commands views of eight Himalayan ranges. There’s a variety of appealing hotels in every price range in Nagarkot, many of which are located within walking distance of the Nagarkot view tower, known as the best place to visit in Nepal to view the sun rising over the Himalayas.

7: Thamel Area
#7 of Best Places To Visit In Nepal
Thamel Area is the best among the Nepal tourist places to buy clothes, jewelry, accessories, and souvenirs. Street shopping can be enjoyed while browsing at a variety of interesting knick knacks.

Key attractions: Newari style design, silk, jewelry, pashmina, embroidered jacket, accessories, and souvenirs

8: Bardia National Park: The Jungle Book
#8 of Best Places To Visit In Nepal
Bardia National Park is one of Nepal’s best kept secrets. Located in the Terai region it is Nepal’s largest national park and wilderness area, protecting 968 km² of sal forest, grassland, savannah and riverine forest. On the west side it’s bordered by the Karnali River and it’s bisected by the Babai River in the Bardiya District. The foot of the Siwalik Hills marks the northern boundary of the park. It’s not overrun by tourists and there are excellent opportunities to spot endangered species of wildlife. The king of Bardia is the Bengal tiger. The tiger population is slowly increasing and counts around 50 to 60 animals. But Bardia is also the habitat for the wild Asian elephant and the greater one-horned rhinoceros. Add seasonings of thrill and adventure with a dash of daring attitude at Bardia National Park for your honeymoon in Nepal. Spend few fun filled days with the wild habitat in Asia’s largest stretches of tiger habitat.

9: Janakpur
#9 of Best Places To Visit In Nepal
Located in south-central Nepal on the Terai plains, Janakpur was once the capital of a millennia-old Indian kingdom known as Mithila, and the Maithili culture still thrives here. Hindus believe Janakpur is the place where Lord Ram wed Sita, also known as Janaki, and thousands of Hindus from all over the world flock to the temple of Janaki Mandir each year to celebrate the anniversary of their marriage. With its three-story construction and 60 rooms, the massive 19th-century marble structure is the largest temple in Nepal. Janakpur is known for the more than 100 sacred pools and ponds scattered around the tranquil city as well.

10: Lumbini
#10 of Best Places To Visit In Nepal
Crowds of Buddhist pilgrims are an everyday sight in Lumbini, the traditional birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, Lord Buddha. With archeological finds that date back to around 550 B.C., the legendary site attracts scholars, scientists and curious visitors as well. It was here that Buddha’s mother, Maya Devi, gave birth near a tree in the garden, which is now a temple bearing her name. Set in the center of a small park designed by Japanese architect Kenzo Tange, the complex also features multiple monasteries, sacred ponds, meditation centers and cultural facilities.

11: Upper Mustang
#10 of Best Places To Visit In Nepal

Muktinath Tour Package

Mustang: Mustang is situated at the northernmost part of the country. Mustang is divided into two main parts that are the Upper mustang and the lower mustang. Upper mustang is famous among trekkers and adventure and thrill seekers whereas lower mustang is famous for it’s natural beauty. Mustang is also where the Kaligandaki river originates from, which is the second deepest gorge of the country. The river drains the rocky soil and highlands of mustang and flows towards south of the country. This gorge is another attraction of Mustang.

 

Best Short Hikes Pokhara

If you are looking for best hikes Pokhara, one of the attractive city, you can do short trek around. After boating, you can go to Shanti Stupa. It is located as a bar of Phewa lake, from there we can see whole Pokhara’s view with reflecting snow covered mountain range on the Phewa Lake, balloonists on the sky & panoramic view. Pokhara, the beautiful lake city, is one of the most beloved destination as if offers you panoramic view of high mountains like Annapurna, Machhapuchre, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, etc. There is a wide choice of trails in the mountains around Pokhara. We have listed down 3 short treks around Pokhara:

The Ghorepani PoonHill Trek – 5 Days
It is a popular trail that lies in the Annapurna Region. The trekking to Ghorepani Poon Hill is also known popularly known as Annapurna Balcony Trekking. The trekking routes to this area covers abundant areas of the Annapurna Circuit. The trekking trial is a colorful short route within Annapurna region, which winds through patchwork valleys, dense mossy forests and past icy waterfalls. The trial passes through magnificent rhododendron forests and beautiful indigenous Magar and Gurung Villages where you can witness and live their culture and tradition. Ghorepani Poon Hill trekking is the best trekking destination for trekkers who wish to explore the combination of culture, lifestyle of Nepalese people along with incredible views, sunrise and sunset of Himalaya.  Poon Hill offers you phenomenal panoramic view of captivating Himalayas including Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Annapurna II, III, and IV, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Gangapurna, and Manaslu ranges among few others.

Dhampus Sarangkot Trek – 3 Days
Dhampus Trek offers you amazing views of the north of Annapurna ranges including the Dhaulagiri, Fishtail etc mountains, beautiful sunset and sunrise on the Himalayas , countryside experience. This classic trek is short yet rewarding and provides you an opportunity to experience the countryside experience in Nepal. Dhampus is a mountain view point as well as a small Gurung ethnic village. Pokhara Dhampus Trek is also a gateway to Annapurna Conservation Area.

Begnas Thulokote Day Hiking – 1 Day

Begnas Lake
Begnas Lake

Start your drive from Pokhara to Begnas in the morning. Your guide will come at your hotel at 8.30 am, with a private vehicle for your complimentary transfer to the trek starting point. Start your trek to Kalikastan, which offers commanding view of the Himalayas. Explore the village to observe local culture and traditions. The villages located in this route are less affected by modernization. Only few tourists get access to these villages which offer unspoiled culture and a true reflection of the  village lifestyle of the region. Continue to Thulokote with a 1 hour uphill climb. Thulokote is perhaps the best point to see Annapurna Range, Fishtail, Tent Peak, Dhaulagiri and Pokhara Valley with Phewa Lake and Begnas Lake located on valley floor. Spend your time at the top enjoying the incredible view. Trekking takes around 2 hours from the starting point to Thulokote, mostly following uphill climb.

Trek down to Kaulekote and continue to Begnas. It takes 3 hours to reach the base mostly following a gentle downhill trekking route bypassing typical settlements. Spend your time at Begnas Lake, known for its crystal clear water. This lake is less crowded compared to Phewa Lake located in Pokhara city center. If you want to have lunch then you can enjoy this at a local restaurant or resort available in area.

Board the boat and cross the lake on a 30 minutes ride. Reach the vehicle boarding point to get transferred back to your hotel located in Lakeside Pokhara.

Pokhara to Muktinath Jeep Tour – 4 days
The tour can be considered as one of my sweetest, most unforgettable and the most popular tour in Nepal. It not only provides a view of diverse landscapes with mountains, cultures and rural habitat of Nepalese people along the route but also a peace of mind, soul and spiritual happiness. The place itself is so pure and loving that nobody remains unhappy, bored and unemotionally attached. It is rich not only in natural beauty but also full of loving, caring, trustworthy and innocent people. If you don’t like to go by drive then you can choose the Jomsom Muktinath by flight service or Muktinath Charter helicopter service

Luxury Trekking From Pokhara – 5 days
Annapurna Luxury trek begins from the heaven of Earth that is Pokhara towards the beautiful Gurung villages. Further, Trek will lead you to Ghanduk (best village of Nepal) where the local people welcome you. You can now experience the real taste of typical local culture and spectacular views of natural sceneries staying in luxury hotels. Nepal Tours provide you a safe trip with a best co-operative service in high level of comfort. For the Annapurna Luxury Trek. You can click to see the details.

Family Lodge Trek From Pokhara
There are many different pathways through the incredible Annapurna Mountains. Some of these treks are quite challenging and designed for the experienced trekker. Others are easier and are ideal for beginners, people with young families or those who have artificial joints. The Annapurna Panorama Lodge Trekking is an easier trek that doesn’t skimp on natural beauty or scenic opportunities. Even experienced trekkers will enjoy the superb beauty of this trek. Planning an adventure travel in Nepal with your family? There are plenty of family lodge trek options in Nepal where you can take your family for a vacation. Although previous family trekking and camping experience will be highly helpful, nevertheless with the help of experienced kid-friendly guides you can easily trek in Nepal. Looking for a day hike in Pokhara? Do you want a short trek in Pokhara? Are you looking for a family trekking in Pokhara? If yes, then choose Australian Camp trek.

Finally if you are in around to Pokhara and  you would like to see things to do in Pokhara. Please visit this link:

Nepal tourism makes spectacular rebound

Nepal Tourism

Nepal tourism experienced a dramatic turnaround last year after being hit by the twin disasters of a devastating earthquake and crippling trade embargo in 2015. Foreign tourist arrivals to Nepal jumped 39.71 percent to 753,002 in 2016, boosted by robust visitor growth from India, China, the US, the UK and Sri Lanka, according to the statistics of the Department of Immigration.

However, 2016 arrivals are still 4.69 percent down from 2014 when the country welcomed 790,118 foreign visitors. The tourism boom is expected to continue in 2017 and remains a major growth driver for the economy even as the industry sees low overseas promotional activities. October, November and December have been the most productive months for the industry, accounting for nearly one-third of total arrivals.

“It’s a dramatic growth. The industry is returning rapidly to its pre-earthquake growth level,” said Kedar Neupane, director general of the Department of Immigration. “The tourism boom is expected to continue in 2017 given a level of promotion by Nepal in the major source markets.” He said that if the government, Nepal Tourism Board and private sector conducted aggressive promotional activities, this year could be an extraordinary year. “We can expect 1 million tourists in 2017 considering the current environment.”

Neupane said that Nepal could see a boom in Chinese arrivals this year following the move by the Chinese government to encourage travel to the country. China has announced Nepal Tourism Promotion Year 2017 in a bid to encourage its citizens to visit the Himalayan republic, according to the Nepal Embassy in Beijing.

“The industry carried out massive marketing activities in major source markets after the earthquakes, leading to a massive recovery,” said tourism entrepreneur Basant Raj Mishra. “The arrival of foreign volunteers as well as conferences held by I/NGOs in Nepal last year propelled growth.”

Suman Pandey, chairman of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Nepal Chapter, said that 2017 looked promising; but the crumbling Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Nepal’s only international aerial gateway, could be a major setback.

“The hospitality industry in Nepal can accommodate more than 3 million tourists, but the airport is already choked with capacity constraints even though arrivals are way short of the one million mark,” he said.

TIA is currently served by 28 international carriers, and it has announced that it cannot accommodate more flights. “What does this statement mean? Of course, Nepal has become an attractive holiday destination for travellers, but TIA will remain the main obstacle to the growth of the industry.”

Nepal received a lot of media exposure following the earthquake which has aroused tremendous interest among potential travelers. The world’s leading travel guide Lonely Planet has named Nepal the world’s ‘best value destination’ for 2017. Likewise, Nepal’s Langtang region has been featured in The New York Times ‘52 places to go in 2017’ list.

Nepal has also appeared in the January travel issue of chinadaily.com.cn. “Nepal remains a fabulous choice for budget-conscious travelers, whether it’s the country’s world famous trekking routes or the wildlife in the southern region. Travel costs per day are as low as $50 on average,” it said.

A breakdown of arrivals by market shows Indian travellers at the top of the list. Arrivals from the southern neighbour reached 118,249 last year, up 57.40 percent. Chinese tourist arrivals jumped 55.26 percent to 104,005. Travel trade entrepreneurs said that Chinese arrivals did not increase as expected last year as the key entry point,

Tatopani Customs in Sindhupalchok, was closed after the earthquake. However, Rasuwagadhi has emerged as an important surface route with 23,452 Chinese visitors entering the country through this point last year.

Meanwhile, visitors from the US, Sri Lanka and the UK jumped 25.67 percent, 29.64 percent and 55.71 percent respectively.

Lonely Planet crowns Nepal as world’s ‘best value destination’ for 2017

Nepal has been named on top ‘Best Value Destination’ and 5th on the top 10 countries in the world to visit in 2017, according to Lonely Planet’s annual best in Travel list released on Tuesday.

Nepal is the only destination in South Asia that has been featured in Lonely Planet’s Top Ten Destinations Guidebook.

The world’s leading travel guide Lonely Planet says, “Even natural disasters can’t keep Nepal down for long. The 2015 earthquakes caused devastation, but what is most striking from a traveller’s perspective is not how much was lost but how much remains.”

“Landmark temples crumbled, but others came through with just the odd tile out of place, and whole swathes of the country escaped serious damage, including most of the popular trekking trails.”

It added, “Nepal has all the skills required to repair monuments and infrastructure, but what it does need is income. By visiting Nepal now and supporting local culture and people, you could help a nation rebuild and bounce back even stronger.”

Among the top ten countries, Canada is number one followed by Colombia, Finland, Dominica, Bermuda, Mongolia Oman, Myanmar and Ethiopia.

On its selection process, Lonely Planet writes, “Amid fierce debate, the list is whittled down by our panel of travel experts to just 10 countries, 10 regions and 10 cities that travellers must visit in the year ahead. Each destination is chosen for its topicality, unique experiences and ‘wow’ factor. We don’t just report on the trends, we set them—helping you get there before the crowds do.”

As per the meeting held between Deepak Raj Joshi, CEO of Nepal Tourism Board and Lonely Planet Team in Delhi on October 24, both parties have agreed to work in  partnership by signing agreement in near future for promotion of Nepal’s tourism.

“It is a great honour for Nepal to get a place in such a prestigious guidebook. I do believe that it will give positive message to the international travel community and inspire them to visit Nepal in 2017,” said Joshi.

Over the past four decades, Lonely Planet has cultivated a dedicated traveller community. More than 130 million Lonely Planet books—to almost every destination on the planet—have now been printed in 14 different languages.