Nepal, also known as the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, is nestled between China and India and is known for having one of the world’s highest mountain peaks. Nepal is also revered worldwide for bang the location where Gautama Buddha was born. Divided into several regions including the Outer Terai, Siwalik Range, Inner Terai, Mahabharat Range, Middle Hills, Valleys, Lekhs, and Trans Himalay. In addition to the geographical regions, Nepal also has several river basins. As being the birthplace for Buddha, Nepal has a diverse religious makeup including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam.
The predominant religion in Nepal is Hindu. Nepal is known for its cultural diversity. Nepal used to be run by a monarchy, but that changed in 1951. Today, Nepal’s government consists of a cabinet and though the king remains the head of the state, the monarchy is now run as a parliament. In addition to changing their governmental structure, Nepal has also made headline news for monumental decisions such as abolishing the death penalty and legalizing same sex marriage. Nepal is also well known for having some of the most memorable trails worldwide and is known as a trekking haven. Some choose to trek in national parks and those who do won’t need to obtain special permits. Tourists can engage in treks that have been provided through professional tour groups and guides.
Those visiting Nepal will find there are plenty of activities to engage in, luxurious hotels and comfy bed and breakfasts to stay in, great eateries to enjoy and a number of attractions to occupy your time. Tourists may engage in a number of tours and as Nepal boasts, the Himalayas there are numerous treks and hikes to participate in. Some of Nepal’s most famous cities include Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Janakpur, Chobar, Pokhara, Kurintar, and Tansen. There are also several national parks including the Chitwan National Park, the Rara National Park, and the Sagarmatha National Park. Nepal’s official language is Nepali and there are many who speak English, but it is recommended for tourists to carry a guidebook or at least know some words in Nepali to reduce the risk of uncomfortable situations. Tourists should prepare for obtaining visas to ensure they can visit different regions in the country. There are certain nonstop flights that make traveling to Nepal much simpler than in times past. The Tribhuvan International Airport is located in Kathmandu and is the main port for air travel. There are many adventures to be enjoyed in Nepal. Here is a list of 19 places to visit when in Nepal.
1. Himalayan Social Journey Trekking
The Himalayan Social Journey Trekking is located Kathmandu, Nepal that includes experienced teams that lead treks and tours across the country. There are various packages you may choose from and these include rafting, jungle safaris, mountain flights by plane, tours, and trekking by foot.
2. Rapidrunner Expeditions – Rapidrunner Expeditions is located in Pokhara, Nepal and is revered for the professional quality of the experienced guides as they lead tourists on white water rafting expeditions. There are multiday trips as well as schools.
3. Durbar Central (Durbar Square)
Located in Patan, Durbar Central (Durbar Square)is a square that features beautiful landmarks, pagoda temples, stores and more. Entrance is for a fee, however, but those who visit the square readily admit it was well worth it.
4. Nyatapola Temple
An ancient architectural structure built in the early 18th century; Nyatapola Temple is admired for its beauty and history. The temple is five stories high and is a beautiful demonstration of Nepalese architecture. The temple was dedicated to Siddha Laxmi, the Hindu prosperity goddess. The temple has been included in the UNESCO list of World Heritage sites.
5. Sagarmatha National ParkLocated in Eastern Nepal and in the midst of the Himalayas, Sagarmatha National Park is a protected UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. The park provides a gorgeous view of Mount Everest, and features four separate zones with different climates. A wide array of wildlife call the park home including Himalayan bears, musk deer, snow leopards, red pandas, and langur monkeys.
6. Ram Mandir Temple
The Ram Mandir Temple is located in Janakpur, Nepal and was built in the early 19th century. A popular tourist attraction, the Ram Mandir Temple is the oldest in the city. The temple is located adjacent to Janaki Mandir.
7. Buddha’s birthplace Maya Devi Temple – The temple is located in Lumbini, the city where Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha Gautama) was born. The city is a Mecca for Buddhists and the Maya Devi was the Buddha’s mother.
8. Nuwakot Durbar
The Nuwakot Durbar is an ancient palace consisting of seven stories. Tourists are allowed to go inside for an up-close look at the amazing architectural structure.
9. Tengboche Gompa
A religious site in Thyangboche, Nepal, Tengboche Gompa is a monastery that was built in the early 20th century. The site is protected as an UNESCO World Heritage Site and stands in the midst of the Himalayan Mountains within Sagarmatha National Park.
10. Janaki Mandir Temple – The Janaki Mandir Temple is located in Janakpur, Nepal and was built in AD 1911. The temple was built in honor of the Hindu goddess Sita.
11. Manakamana Cable Car
Legend has it that the Hindu goddess Manakamana grants wishes of the heart and her temple is located in Kurintar, Nepal. Now, those who want to make a wish can enjoy the Manakamana Cable Car ride that will bring you to the temple quickly and in a memorable way.
12. Gokyo Lakes
These pristine lakes are located in Sagarmatha National Park and are approximately 16,000 feet above sea level. The freshwater lakes include Gokyo Cho, Thonak Cho, Gyazumpa Cho, Tanjung Cho, and Ngojumba Cho. Both Hindus and Buddhists regard the lakes as sacred and the area is often used for worship. Due to that belief, wildlife, birds and fauna are protected and guarded. The Gokyo Lakes is one of the most popular tourist destinations throughout all of Nepal.
13. Mount Everest
Mount Everest stands along both Nepal and China and is the tallest mountain worldwide. The mountain provides a plethora of activities for tourists of all ages including hiking, skiing and trekking. The mountain is located within Sagarmatha National Park.
14. Narayani River – Located in Chitwan National Park, the Narayani River is one of the foremost destinations for those visiting Nepal. One of the most popular activities to take place on the river is white water rafting. The area is a haven for wildlife such as tigers, crocodiles, rhinoceros and deer.
15. Fusion Garden Restaurant – Located in Lumbini, Nepal, the Fusion Garden Restaurant is one of the most highly rated eateries throughout the country.
16. Manakamana Temple – Located in Kurintar, the Manakamana Temple is often accessed via the cable car company established in the area. The Manakamana Temple is revered as a holy site.
17. Garden of Dreams – Featured in Kathmandu, Nepal, the Garden of Dreams, is a beautiful garden designed in a classical style. The Gardens were once considered the most beautiful in the world and remains one of the top tourist destinations.
18. Rara National Park (Rara Lake)
The smallest national park in Nepal is the Rara National Park, located in the Himalayas. Close to Jumla, the park features the beautiful Rara Lake. Known for numerous plant varieties and animal species, the Indian Leopard makes the park its home along with other exotic animals such as the Snow Leopard and the Red Panda.
19. Trishuli River – The Trishuli River flows through Nepal and is often the place where a number of different water sports take place. Due to the fast rapids it is a popular choice for those engaging in white water rafting activities.
Nepal has many historical sites that have been preserved through the UNESCO World Heritage sites. With three national parks, and the majestic splendor of the Himalayas, the nation is a haven for those who love culture, history, and the excitement of outdoor activities. Rich in wildlife, those who visit Nepal have multiple opportunities to see rare, exotic animals in their natural environment. Hiking, trekking, exploring the mountain regions, fishing, and white water rafting are just few of the popular activities that make Nepal a popular Asian tourist destination. Those who hold sacred the teachings of Buddha will find the country to be a source of great spiritual strength and clarity. From trekking to pilgrimage, Nepal has something for everyone.
In addition to Nepal’s rich natural landscape, there are also plenty of museums and galleries that will open you up to Nepal’s extensive history. There are many specialized activities that cater to certain tastes such as honey hunting, bird and butterfly watching and embracing the cultural influences of Buddhism by engaging in any of the many meditation centers throughout Nepal. Whether looking for a heart pounding, breathtaking adventure on the water or at Mount Everest, or wanting to slow the fast, hurried pace of life through meditation, Nepal has activities for all
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