If you are looking for the best things to do in Nepal, you will surely be delighted when I tell you that it is one of the most loved tourist destinations in the world. The country is known for spectacular landscapes, breathtaking backdrops, rich culture and history and many other beautiful attractions.
You can visit Nepal any time during your vacation and explore its magnificent natural attractions. Most often, trekking is the main attraction, but you can also go for other adventurous activities such as skiing, mountaineering, scuba diving, river rafting, etc.
Here is the list of Top 10 Things to Do in Nepal:
1. Experience Tibetan Culture at Boudhanath Stupa
Boudhanath is also known as Boudha. It is located at Boudhanath Sadak, Kathmandu, Nepal. It is one of the most impressive stupas in the world. This 15-century stupa is a symbol of peace. It is the most significant Buddhist Tibetian monument in Nepal.
You can visit this stupa to witness daily prayer rituals. The calm atmosphere of the place is relaxed and peaceful. There is low volume prayer chanting, and butter lamps light the entire place. The exterior of this massive monument is stunning. It will make you feel overwhelmed. Read more information 10 interesting facts about Boudhanath Stupa, Nepal
Location: Kathmandu, Nepal
Timing: 24 hours
Entry Fee: Rs. 150 per person
Tips:
- Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
- Respect the local customs, including walking clockwise around the stupa.
- Nearby cafes and shops offer Tibetan handicrafts and snacks.
Suggested Kathmandu Itinerary: 3 Nights 4 Days Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour Package
2. Wildlife Safari in Chitwan National Park
All animal lovers will definitely love Chitwan national park because of its fantastic wildlife safari ride. Chitwan is the name of the jungle where you can see deer, one-horned rhinos and monkeys. You can also find many species of birds there.
The Chitwan national park wildlife safari is one of Nepal’s most popular attractions. Staying in luxury lodges near Chitwan national park will be the best way to enjoy these safaris. It is easy to spot animals because of the dense jungle and absolute pin-drop silence.
Main attractions: The Elephant Breeding Centre, Bird Education Society
Location: South-central Nepal
Entry Fee: Rs. 1690
Best time to visit: January-March
Tips:
- Opt for guided jeep safaris or canoe trips to maximize wildlife sightings.
- Wear neutral-colored clothing and bring insect repellent.
- Stay at a jungle lodge to experience the park fully.
3. River Rafting in Seti River
Seti is a popular spot for a water adventure in Nepal. River rafting is one of the best ways you can enjoy the thrill. River rafting is a great way to have fun, and the beauty of the natural world will be your constant companion.
You will find breathtaking scenery surrounding the river. To ensure safety and enjoyment, a qualified guide will accompany you. The rafting experience at Seti river is a thrilling activity that thrill-seekers should not miss.
Location: Pokhara, Nepal
Best time to visit: November and March
Price of river rafting: INR 3,180
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Duration: 1 to 2 days
Tips:
- Book a rafting tour with a certified operator for safety.
- Beginners can enjoy the Seti River, which offers moderate rapids.
- Bring a waterproof camera to capture the scenic beauty.
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4. Explore Bardia National Park
It is one of the top things to do in Nepal is to visit the largest national park in Nepal. It is located at Bardia and Bheri, Nepal 21800. This national park has remained wild and unaffected by modernization. It is home to 22 royal Bengal tigers. There are also around 100 elephants and horned rhinos.
There are many activities available at the park, including jungle safari and many more. In this Bardia national park, you can see the most endangered wildlife. The most popular activities include bird-watching, ox cart driving, elephant breeding and cultural dance by the natives.
Location: Far-western Nepal
Timing: 9 am to 8 pm
Entry Fee: 1500 NPR
Tips:
- Ideal for those seeking a less crowded alternative to Chitwan.
- Engage a local guide for a better chance to spot tigers and elephants.
- Accommodation options range from basic to luxury jungle lodges.
5. Trek at the Annapurna Base Camp
Annapurna Base Camp is located at 13,550 feet in the northern region of Nepal. The breathtaking views of the giant Himalayan ranges trek starting from Banthanti and ending at Annapurna Base Camp. This tour takes you through the Oak, Pine and Rhododendron mountain ranges.
You can also see the lush green fields adorned with a diamond-like snow carpet and amidst stunning misty valleys. The Annapurna base camp trek is now reserved as an Annapurna conservation area. While during the trek, you can also see the beautiful Modi river, and also you’ll see some of the massive peaks between 7000 and 8000m.
During the trek, don’t miss enjoying the magical sights of Annapurna Glacier from scenic lodges to enhance your experience. You can also trek through the Annapurna conservation zone, home to 1226 species, 102 mammals and 474 birds. There are also 22 amphibians. The stunning views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South’s peaks are thrilling.
Location: Central Nepal
Trek difficulty level: Moderate
Best Time to Trek: February to May & October to December
Duration: 7 to 12 days
Tips:
- Prepare physically for this moderate to strenuous trek.
- Hire a guide or join a trekking group for safety and navigation.
- Permits are required: ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System).
These are the top 5 treks in Nepal
6. Ride a cable car to Chandragiri Hills
The most popular activity in Nepal to do is taking a cable car ride. It is located at Phakhel – Matatirtha Rd, Chandragiri 44600, Nepal. It takes 9 minutes to reach Chandragiri Hills’ top station. While having a cable car ride, tourists are captivated by the breathtaking view of Kathmandu valley.
Also, the hills are surrounded by snow-capped mountains like Manaslu, Annapurna and Ganesh Himal etc. Tourists can enjoy the breathtaking view from the summit of the 2500-meter high hill. The experienced chauffeur cum guide will make the tour more enjoyable and will point out various mountain peaks.
Location: Southwest of Kathmandu, Nepal
Timing: 9 am – 7 pm
Entry Fee: Rs. 2300 per adult
Tips:
- On clear days, you can see panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest.
- The base station is easily accessible by a short drive from Kathmandu.
- There are restaurants and a temple at the top for a relaxing day trip.
Learn about Kathmandu:
- 10 Most Famous Reasons to Visit Kathmandu
- Top 10 Popular Historic Monuments In Kathmandu
- Guide to the best things to buy in Kathmandu, Nepal
- ‘Maitri Bus Sewa’ service between Delhi and Kathmandu (Nepal) will resume shortly
- Air India Announced Weekly 3 Flights Between Delhi and Kathmandu
7. Visit Swayambhunath Stupa
Visiting the charming Swayambhunath temple is a must-do thing in Nepal. It is located in Bhaganpau, Nepal. Tourists are mesmerized by the whitewashed dome, which rises to meet the gilded tower from where they can view the four iconic Buddha faces looking out over the valley.
Each section of the stupa is unique. The dome is grounded, and the 13-tiers gilded spires represent the 13 stages of nirvana. The nose-like thing beneath the eyes is a Nepalese symbol of one. It stands for unity, and the third eye represents the all-seeing insight and wisdom of Buddha. Tourists can offer prayers by spinning prayer wheels at the base of the central stupa to circulate the stupa. Read More: Exploring Swayambhunath Stupa – The Monkey Temple in Kathmandu
Location: Kathmandu, Nepal
Timing: It opens 24 hours
Entry Fee: NPR 200
Tips:
- Also known as the “Monkey Temple,” be cautious of monkeys around the stupa.
- Climb the 365 steps to the top for a rewarding panoramic view of the Kathmandu Valley.
- Respect religious practices, and refrain from pointing your feet at the stupa.
8. See the amazing Nagarkot Sunrise
Tourists who love nature and mountains will surely enjoy Nagarkot. This beautiful sunrise point is located at Nagarkot, Bhaktapur district, Nepal. It is famous for its breathtaking views of Mount Everest rising from the majestic mountain range.
Tourists are awed by the changing colours of the snow-covered mountains as the sun rises. To see the beautiful Nagarkot sunrise, tourists wake up at 4 am to enjoy this breathtaking view. They have to stay near Nagarkot to see the stunning sunset & sunrise. Tourists can also see Mount Everest if the weather & sky is clear.
Location: 32 km east of Kathmandu, Nepal
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Tips:
- Stay overnight in Nagarkot to catch the sunrise over the Himalayas.
- Bring warm clothing as it can get chilly in the early morning.
- Combine the sunrise view with a day hike in the surrounding hills.
More about Nagarkot:
9. Take the blessings at Manakamana Temple
In this temple, devotees offer prayers to the goddess Bhagwati. It is located in Manakamana, Gorkha district, Nepal. Goddess Bhagwati is an incarnation of goddess Parvati. According to legend, the goddess full-fill the wishes of those who sacrifice goats in her honour.
This temple was built in the pagoda style of the 17th century. The temple is located on a hill and can be reached by cable car in 10 minutes. You can enjoy a stunning view from the hilltop of the Trisuli and Marshyangdi river valleys, as well as the peaks of Manaslu and Himachali.
Location: Gorkha District, Nepal
Timing: 8 am – 6:30 pm
Entry Fee: Rs. 6,652, including hotel pickup and drop and cable car ride.
Tips:
- Reach the temple by a scenic cable car ride over the Trishuli River.
- Visit during festivals like Dashain for a vibrant cultural experience.
- Offerings such as flowers and coconuts are available for purchase at the site.
Explore the top 7 places for religious visits in Nepal
10. White water rafting in Trishuli River
It will be a thrill for adventure seekers to raft in the white water. White water rafting is a thrilling experience that will make you forget all of your worries. It’s thrilling to witness the flowing of unnamed water.
You will be challenged by unexpected rapids, which will keep you wanting more. Imagine the sensation of rafting in the below Himalayan peaks.
Location: Between Kathmandu and Pokhara, Nepal
Difficulty level: High
Entry Fee: Rs. 4.410
Duration: 1 to 2 days
Tips:
- The Trishuli River is suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters.
- Combine rafting with a trip to nearby attractions like Manakamana Temple.
- Wear appropriate gear and ensure the raft is equipped with safety measures.
Conclusion:
So, book a Nepal tour package from tusk travel and take your tour to the unexplored corners of the world. It’s a place that has unexplored mountains, picturesque landscape, colourful villages, awe-inspiring peak views and many more that will take you on a lifetime experience.
Here’s what you need to know about Nepal?
- 20 Best Places to See in Nepal
- Nepal UNESCO Heritage Sites
- 10 Best Places to Visit in Nepal in Monsoon
- Nepal’s 10 Most Popular Monasteries
- Honeymoon Places in Nepal
- Nepal’s Most Famous Valleys
- Top 10 Reasons to Visit Nepal
- Visit Nepal Tourist Places in January
- Places to Visit in Nepal in May 2025
- Top 10 Snowfall Places in Nepal
- Nepal Famous Cable Car Rides
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the must-do activities in Nepal?
Must-do activities in Nepal include trekking in the Himalayas, visiting ancient temples and monasteries, exploring wildlife in national parks, and experiencing the vibrant culture in cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara.
2. What are the best trekking routes in Nepal?
The best trekking routes in Nepal include the Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Circuit, and the Langtang Valley Trek. These trails offer stunning mountain views and a chance to experience local culture.
3. Can I visit temples and monasteries in Nepal?
Yes, Nepal is home to many ancient temples and monasteries. Notable sites include the Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) in Kathmandu, Pashupatinath Temple, and the peaceful Boudhanath Stupa.
4. What wildlife experiences are available in Nepal?
You can visit Chitwan National Park and Bardia National Park to see wildlife like Bengal tigers, rhinoceroses, elephants, and various bird species. Jungle safaris and elephant rides are popular activities.
5. Is it possible to go mountain climbing in Nepal?
Yes, Nepal is famous for mountain climbing. Mount Everest and several other peaks like Annapurna and Lhotse are popular with climbers from around the world.
6. What adventure sports can I try in Nepal?
Nepal offers adventure sports like white-water rafting, paragliding in Pokhara, bungee jumping in Bhote Koshi, and zip-lining. These activities provide thrilling experiences in stunning natural settings.
7. What cultural experiences should I not miss in Nepal?
Don’t miss participating in traditional festivals, visiting local markets, and trying Nepalese cuisine. Festivals like Dashain and Tihar offer deep insights into the country’s culture and traditions.
8. Where can I go for a peaceful retreat in Nepal?
For a peaceful retreat, visit places like Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, or the lakeside town of Pokhara. These destinations offer serene environments ideal for relaxation and meditation.
9. How can I explore Nepal’s cities?
You can explore Nepal’s cities by visiting historical sites, local markets, and cultural centers. In Kathmandu, explore Durbar Square, and in Pokhara, visit Phewa Lake and the International Mountain Museum.
10. What is the best time to visit Nepal for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Nepal for outdoor activities is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. The weather is mild, with clear skies, making it ideal for trekking and sightseeing.