Discover Nepal

Adventure Trekkers

Looking to challenge yourself on world-class treks from beginner-friendly Poon Hill (3,210m) to the legendary Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and beyond.

Spiritual Seekers

Drawn to ancient temples, Buddhist monasteries, meditation retreats, yoga centers, and the birthplace of Buddha in Lumbini.

Culture Enthusiasts

Fascinated by medieval architecture, living traditions, UNESCO sites, vibrant festivals, and over 120 ethnic groups with unique customs.

Wildlife Lovers

Eager to spot one-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, snow leopards, and over 900 bird species in pristine national parks.

Budget Travelers

Seeking incredible experiences without breaking the bank. Nepal offers exceptional value with meals from $2-5 and accommodation from $5-15/night.

Solo Adventurers

Safe, welcoming, and easy to navigate with well-established trekking routes, strong traveler community, and friendly locals.

🏛️ Kathmandu Valley

The cultural and political heart of Nepal with seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites packed into a compact area. Explore ancient durbar squares with intricate wood carvings, visit the living goddess Kumari in her palace, and experience the vibrant chaos of Thamel district with its shops, restaurants, and backpacker energy.

Must-See: Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu/Patan/Bhaktapur Durbar Squares

🏞️ Pokhara

Nepal's adventure capital and gateway to the Annapurnas. This lakeside paradise offers stunning Phewa Lake with perfect mountain reflections, endless adventure activities, and a relaxed atmosphere. The Annapurna range dominates the northern skyline, including the distinctive pyramid of Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain).

Must-Do: Sarangkot sunrise, paragliding, Phewa Lake boating, Peace Pagoda, International Mountain Museum

🦏 Chitwan National Park

Nepal's premier wildlife destination and first national park (established 1973). This UNESCO World Heritage Site protects one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, leopards, and over 500 bird species in pristine sal forest and grassland habitat. Safari success rate for rhino sightings exceeds 90%.

Activities: Jeep/elephant safaris, canoe trips, jungle walks, elephant breeding center, Tharu cultural shows

🕉️ Lumbini

Birthplace of Lord Buddha (623 BC) and one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Buddhists worldwide. The Maya Devi Temple marks the exact spot where Queen Maya Devi gave birth. The sacred garden contains ancient ruins, the Ashoka Pillar (erected 249 BC), and the Puskarini sacred pond. The monastic zone features monasteries built by Buddhist countries from around the world.

Highlights: Maya Devi Temple, Ashoka Pillar, sacred Bodhi tree, World Peace Pagoda, international monasteries

🏘️ Bhaktapur

The best-preserved medieval city in Nepal, also called "City of Devotees" or "City of Culture." This living museum showcases 15th-century Newari architecture, traditional pottery-making in Potter's Square, intricate wood carvings, and authentic Newari lifestyle. Less touristy than Kathmandu, it offers a genuine glimpse into Nepal's rich cultural past.

Don't Miss: 55-Window Palace, Nyatapola Temple (5-story pagoda), Pottery Square, trying king curd (Juju Dhau)

🏔️ Nagarkot & Dhulikhel

Hill stations perched on ridges northeast of Kathmandu offering spectacular Himalayan panoramas without the trek. On clear days, views stretch from Annapurna in the west to Everest in the east. Nagarkot (2,175m) is famous for sunrise and sunset views, while Dhulikhel (1,550m) offers traditional Newari culture alongside mountain vistas. Perfect weekend escapes from Kathmandu's pollution and chaos.

Best For: Himalayan views, sunrise/sunset photography, easy day hikes, village walks, mountain resort stays

🏯 Bandipur

Charming Newari hilltop town frozen in 18th-century architecture, located midway between Kathmandu and Pokhara on a high ridge. This living museum features beautifully preserved traditional houses, no motorized vehicles in the old town, spectacular 360-degree mountain views, and authentic homestay experiences. Much less touristy than other heritage towns, offering genuine cultural immersion.

Highlights: Traditional Newari architecture, Siddha Cave (Nepal's largest cave), Thani Mai temple, mountain panoramas, local homestays

🌊 Rara Lake

Nepal's largest and deepest lake (167 sq km, 167m deep) in remote northwestern Karnali region, surrounded by pristine coniferous forests and reflected snow peaks. This alpine jewel sits at 2,990m elevation in Rara National Park. Crystal-clear blue waters, complete solitude, and dramatic wilderness make it one of Nepal's most beautiful natural wonders. Accessible by flight to Jumla then 3-4 day trek, or longer trek from Jumla.

Best For: Remote trekking, pristine nature, solitude, wildlife (red panda, musk deer), autumn colors, photography

🍵 Ilam

Eastern Nepal's tea garden region with rolling emerald hills carpeted in tea plantations, often called "Nepal's Darjeeling." Experience tea cultivation firsthand, taste fresh orthodox tea, visit processing factories, and enjoy stunning sunrise views over Kanchenjunga (world's 3rd highest peak) from Antu Danda viewpoint. Pleasant subtropical climate and beautiful landscapes make this a peaceful hill station escape.

Highlights: Tea gardens and factories, Antu Danda sunrise, Kanyam tea estate, Mai Pokhari lake, Kanchenjunga views, Buddhist monasteries

🏛️ Patan (Lalitpur)

The "City of Fine Arts" across the Bagmati River from Kathmandu, renowned for exceptional metalwork, traditional crafts, and Buddhist heritage. Patan Durbar Square showcases Newari architecture at its finest with the Krishna Mandir, Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahavihar), and numerous courtyards. Active artisan workshops allow visitors to watch craftsmen creating metal statues, thankgas, and traditional handicrafts.

Must-See: Patan Durbar Square, Golden Temple, Patan Museum, artisan workshops, traditional Newari restaurants

🦌 Bardia National Park

Less crowded alternative to Chitwan in far western Nepal, offering even better chances of spotting Bengal tigers, wild Asian elephants, and rare Gangetic dolphins in the Karnali River. This largest lowland national park protects sal forests, grasslands, and riverine habitats. More remote location means fewer tourists and more authentic jungle experience with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

Wildlife: Bengal tigers, wild elephants, one-horned rhinos, Gangetic dolphins, crocodiles, over 400 bird species

🏔️ Upper Dolpo

One of Nepal's most remote and restricted regions, where Tibetan Buddhist culture remains virtually unchanged for centuries. This high-altitude desert landscape features ancient villages, monasteries, and the stunning turquoise Phoksundo Lake (Nepal's deepest at 145m). Made famous by the film "Himalaya" (1999). Requires special permits, guide, and 18-24 day trek commitment, but rewards with pristine wilderness and authentic culture.

Highlights: Phoksundo Lake, Shey Gompa, ancient Bon and Buddhist monasteries, authentic Tibetan culture, dramatic landscapes

Required Permits

All trekking in Nepal requires permits. The specific permits depend on your trekking region:

Trekking Logistics

Understanding Altitude Sickness

Recognizing Symptoms

Prevention Strategies

• ✓ Pre-acclimatize if possible: Spend 2-3 nights in Kathmandu (1,400m) or Namche Bazaar (3,440m) before ascending higher.
• ✓ Build rest days into your itinerary: Plan acclimatization days at Namche (3,440m), Dingboche (4,410m), etc.
• ✓ Consider Diamox (Acetazolamide): Consult your doctor. Typical dose: 125mg twice daily starting 1-2 days before ascent. Helps acclimatization but doesn't prevent AMS.
• ✓ Avoid sleeping pills: They can suppress breathing reflex at altitude, worsening oxygen deprivation.
• ✓ Walk slowly and breathe deeply: "Pole pole" (Swahili for "slowly slowly") should be your mantra. It's not a race.
• ✓ Get travel insurance with helicopter evacuation: Essential for high-altitude treks. Evacuation can cost $5,000-10,000.

Treatment Options

Everest Base Camp Trek

The ultimate bucket-list trek takes you to the base of the world's highest mountain. Starting with a thrilling flight to Lukla's mountain airport (2,860m), you'll trek through the famous Khumbu region, home to the legendary Sherpa people. The route passes through Namche Bazaar (the Sherpa capital), the spiritual Tengboche Monastery with its stunning mountain backdrop, and gradually ascends to Everest Base Camp (5,364m). Most trekkers also climb Kala Patthar (5,545m) for the best views of Everest's summit.

Best Seasons: Spring (March-May) for rhododendron blooms and clear skies, or Autumn (September-November) for the most stable weather and excellent visibility. Proper acclimatization is critical - the itinerary includes rest days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche to prevent altitude sickness. Good physical fitness required, but no technical climbing skills needed.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Often called the world's best trek, the Annapurna Circuit circumnavigates the entire Annapurna massif, offering extraordinary diversity. You'll journey from subtropical rice paddies and lush green forests through alpine meadows to the arid, almost lunar landscape of Mustang, crossing the dramatic Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. The trek provides views of multiple 8,000-meter peaks including Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and over a dozen 7,000m+ peaks.

Best Seasons: October-November for crystal-clear mountain views and stable weather, or March-April for blooming rhododendrons. Tea house infrastructure is excellent throughout. Note that road construction has changed some lower sections, but the high route remains pristine. Allow extra days for acclimatization and weather contingencies.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

A shorter but equally spectacular alternative that takes you deep into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary - a high glacial basin surrounded by towering peaks on all sides. The trail winds through beautiful rhododendron and bamboo forests, crosses gurgling mountain streams, passes through traditional Gurung villages, and culminates in the dramatic amphitheater of Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130m, where you're completely surrounded by 7,000m+ peaks.

Best Seasons: Pre-monsoon (March-May) for blooming rhododendrons and warmer temperatures, or post-monsoon (October-November) for clear skies. This trek is perfect for those wanting high-altitude Himalayan scenery without the 3-week commitment of longer treks. Can be combined with Poon Hill for an extended itinerary.

Langtang Valley Trek

Often called "the valley of glaciers," Langtang is one of Nepal's most beautiful yet less crowded trekking regions. Just north of Kathmandu (7-8 hour drive), this trek showcases spectacular mountain scenery, Tamang culture heavily influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, and the resilient spirit of communities rebuilding after the devastating 2015 earthquake. The valley is hemmed in by towering peaks including Langtang Lirung (7,227m), creating a dramatic mountain amphitheater.

Best Seasons: October-November for clear skies and autumn colors, or March-May for warmer weather and blooming flowers. The trek can be completed in one week, making it perfect for those with limited time. Also excellent for acclimatization before attempting higher treks. Communities have beautifully rebuilt after 2015, and tourism helps support recovery.

Manaslu Circuit Trek

For those seeking a remote alternative to the Annapurna Circuit, Manaslu delivers spectacular scenery with far fewer trekkers. Circling Manaslu (8,163m), the world's eighth-highest mountain, this trek passes through pristine forests, traditional Tibetan-influenced villages, and crosses the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,106m). Being a restricted area requiring special permits and guides helps preserve its authentic, wilderness character.

Best Seasons: September-November for optimal weather conditions. Requires special Manaslu Conservation Area permit, restricted area permit, and registered trekking guide (solo trekking not permitted). Good fitness and previous high-altitude experience strongly recommended. Perfect for adventurers seeking solitude and authentic Himalayan experiences.

Gokyo Lakes Trek

An exceptional alternative route in the Everest region featuring stunning turquoise glacial lakes, the massive Ngozumpa Glacier (Nepal's largest), and arguably better mountain views than the classic Base Camp trek. Climb Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for panoramic views of four 8,000-meter peaks: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu - a view impossible from Everest Base Camp itself. The six pristine high-altitude lakes are sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists.

Best Seasons: October-November and March-May for clear weather. This trek offers more serene, contemplative experience than the busy EBC trail while providing equally spectacular (many say superior) mountain panoramas. Tea houses are comfortable and the trail is well-established. Perfect for those seeking Everest region beauty with fewer crowds.

National Park / Conservation Area Permits

Restricted Area Permits (RAP)

Understanding Altitude Sickness (AMS)

Acute Mountain Sickness typically occurs above 2,500m (8,200ft) when you ascend faster than your body can acclimatize. As altitude increases, atmospheric pressure decreases, meaning each breath contains less oxygen. Your body needs time to adapt by producing more red blood cells and adjusting breathing patterns.

Common AMS Symptoms (Mild):

• • Headache (often the first symptom)
• • Nausea or vomiting
• • Fatigue and weakness
• • Dizziness or lightheadedness
• • Difficulty sleeping
• • Loss of appetite
• • Shortness of breath during exertion

Prevention: The Golden Rules

Essential Prevention Strategies:

• 1. Ascend Gradually: Don't gain more than 300-500m (1,000-1,600ft) in sleeping elevation per day above 3,000m
• 2. Build in Rest Days: Take acclimatization days every 3-4 days. Spend an extra night at key elevations (Namche, Dingboche on EBC trek)
• 3. Hydrate Constantly: Drink 3-4 liters of water daily. Dehydration worsens altitude symptoms. Urine should be clear
• 4. Walk Slowly (Pole Pole): Trek at a comfortable, sustainable pace. "Pole pole" (slowly slowly in Swahili) is the mantra. Rushing increases risk
• 5. Avoid Alcohol & Sleeping Pills: Both depress breathing and worsen acclimatization. Also avoid smoking
• 6. Eat Carbohydrates: High-carb diet helps your body function better at altitude. Eat even if you're not hungry
• 7. Listen to Your Body: Don't push through symptoms. Rest, hydrate, and descend if symptoms worsen

🍚 Dal Bhat

The National Dish

Lentil soup (dal) served with rice (bhat), accompanied by vegetable curry, pickle (achar), and sometimes papad. Saying goes: "Dal bhat power, 24 hour!" Unlimited refills typical. Perfect trekking fuel providing sustained energy.

🥟 Momo

Nepali Dumplings

Steamed or fried dumplings filled with vegetables, chicken, or buffalo (called "buff" in Nepal). Served with spicy tomato-based sauce (achaar). Must-try street food and tea house favorite. Jhol momo = soup momo.

🍜 Thukpa

Tibetan Noodle Soup

Hearty noodle soup with vegetables and meat (or vegetarian). Perfect for cold mountain evenings. Warming, nutritious, and easy to digest at altitude. Common in higher-elevation tea houses.

🥞 Sel Roti

Traditional Rice Bread

Sweet, ring-shaped rice bread deep-fried to golden perfection. Made from rice flour. Traditional festival food but available year-round. Crispy outside, soft inside. Great breakfast or snack.

🍛 Chatamari

Newari Rice Crepe

"Nepali pizza" - thin rice flour crepe topped with eggs, minced meat or vegetables, and onions. Newari specialty from Kathmandu Valley. Crispy, savory, delicious.

🍵 Chiya (Nepali Tea)

Milk Tea

Black tea boiled with milk, sugar, and spices (cardamom, cinnamon, ginger). Served everywhere throughout the day. Essential social ritual and perfect warmth on cold mountain mornings.

🎉 Dashain

September/October • 15 days • Biggest Hindu festival

Nepal's most important festival celebrating victory of good over evil. Families gather, elders give tika (blessing) to younger members, animal sacrifices performed. Government offices close 5-7 days. Trekking routes quieter as Nepalis celebrate with families.

🪔 Tihar (Deepawali)

October/November • 5 days • Festival of Lights

Beautiful festival honoring different animals each day (crow, dog, cow) and Laxmi (goddess of wealth). Houses decorated with oil lamps and colorful lights. Girls perform Deusi-Bhailo songs going house to house. Magical atmosphere throughout Nepal.

🌈 Holi

March • 1-2 days • Festival of Colors

Joyful celebration where people throw colored powder and water at each other. Celebrates arrival of spring and victory of good over evil. Mainly in Terai and Kathmandu Valley. Wear old clothes! Fun but chaotic - avoid if you don't want colored!

🏔️ Mani Rimdu

October/November • Buddhist festival in Everest region

Sacred masked dance festival at Tengboche Monastery and other Sherpa monasteries. Celebrates triumph of Buddhism. Monks perform elaborate dances wearing colorful costumes and masks. Spectacular if you're trekking EBC in autumn.

🎂 Buddha Jayanti

April/May • Buddha's Birthday

Celebrates birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha. Major pilgrimage to Lumbini (Buddha's birthplace) and Buddhist sites. Prayer flags, processions, butter lamps lit. Swayambhunath and Boudhanath stupas particularly active. Public holiday.

🎊 Losar

February • Tibetan New Year

Celebrated by Sherpa, Tamang, and other Tibetan-Buddhist communities. Monasteries hold special ceremonies, traditional foods prepared, homes decorated. Excellent time to experience authentic Sherpa culture in trekking regions.

🐄 Gai Jatra (Cow Festival)

August • Kathmandu Valley

Families who lost loved ones in past year parade cows (or children dressed as cows) through streets to help deceased reach heaven. Also features satire, comedy, and social commentary. Unique cultural experience.

🎭 Indra Jatra

September • 8 days • Kathmandu

Most important festival in Kathmandu featuring masked dances, chariot processions of living goddess Kumari, and worship of Indra (god of rain). Ancient celebration with roots in 10th century. Spectacular cultural performances.

🍂 Autumn (Sep-Nov)

★ BEST SEASON FOR TREKKING

The peak trekking season with crystal-clear mountain views, stable weather, and comfortable temperatures. Post-monsoon skies are exceptionally clear for photography. Daytime pleasant, nights cool. Trails busy but tea houses well-stocked.

Pros: Best visibility, stable weather, festivals (Dashain/Tihar), perfect temperatures
Cons: Crowded trails, higher accommodation prices, need to book ahead
Temperature: 15-20°C days at lower elevations, -5 to 5°C at high altitude

🌸 Spring (Mar-May)

★ SECOND BEST SEASON

Warmer than autumn with blooming rhododendrons painting hillsides pink and red (especially spectacular on Annapurna treks). Clear early spring mornings,some afternoon clouds. Wildlife active. Excellent for trekking with fewer crowds than autumn.

Pros: Rhododendron blooms, warmer weather, good visibility, lush landscapes
Cons: Afternoon clouds possible, dustier trails, increasing heat in lowlands
Temperature: 20-25°C days at lower elevations, 0-10°C at high altitude

❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb)

FOR LOWER ALTITUDE TREKS

Cold but crystal-clear skies make for spectacular mountain views. High passes often closed by snow. Lower altitude treks (Poon Hill, Annapurna Base Camp) pleasant and uncrowded. Perfect for Kathmandu Valley cultural tours. Budget travelers benefit from off-season discounts.

Pros: Crystal clear views, uncrowded, discounts, good for culture/wildlife
Cons: High passes closed, very cold nights, shorter days, some tea houses closed
Temperature: 10-18°C days in valleys, -10 to 0°C at high altitude

🌧️ Monsoon (Jun-Aug)

RAIN SHADOW AREAS ONLY

Heavy rains make most treks muddy and leeches active. However, rain-shadow areas (Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpo, Naar-Phu) are ideal as they receive little rain. Lush green landscapes, fewer tourists, lower prices. Good for Chitwan wildlife (though hot and humid).

Pros: Fewer tourists, discounts, lush landscapes, good for rain-shadow treks
Cons: Heavy rain, leeches, cloudy mountain views, flight delays, landslides possible
Temperature: 25-30°C in lowlands (humid), cooler in mountains with rain

✓ DO

• ✓ Remove shoes before entering temples, monasteries, and homes
• ✓ Walk clockwise around stupas, chortens, and mani walls (Buddhist tradition)
• ✓ Dress modestly, especially at religious sites - cover shoulders and knees
• ✓ Ask permission before photographing people, especially during religious ceremonies
• ✓ Use your right hand for eating and giving/receiving (left hand considered unclean)
• ✓ Say "Namaste" (hands together in prayer position) as greeting
• ✓ Be patient and flexible - "Nepal time" is relaxed, services may be slow
• ✓ Bargain politely in markets (but not in set-price shops or restaurants)
• ✓ Accept food/tea when offered by hosts - refusing is impolite

✗ DON'T

• ✗ Don't touch people's heads (considered most sacred body part)
• ✗ Don't point your feet at people or religious objects (feet are lowest/dirtiest)
• ✗ Don't step over someone's legs or belongings - walk around instead
• ✗ Don't eat from someone else's plate or offer from yours (becomes "jutho" - ritually unclean)
• ✗ Don't display public affection (holding hands OK, kissing not acceptable)
• ✗ Don't touch offerings or religious objects in temples without permission
• ✗ Don't wear shoes on carpets or bedding in homes or tea houses
• ✗ Don't use harsh/loud voice or show anger publicly (saving face important)
• ✗ Don't buy antiques or religious artifacts - export is illegal

🏠 Budget ($5-15/night)

Hostels, guesthouses, basic hotels

Shared or private rooms with basic amenities. Common in Thamel (Kathmandu) and Lakeside (Pokhara). Clean, safe, social atmosphere. Usually include WiFi, may share bathrooms. Hot water sometimes limited.

Best for: Backpackers, solo travelers, budget-conscious

🏨 Mid-Range ($20-60/night)

3-star hotels, boutique guesthouses

Private rooms with ensuite bathrooms, hot water, WiFi, breakfast included. Some have gardens, rooftop terraces. Good locations in cities. Professional service, comfortable beds, clean facilities.

Best for: Most travelers seeking comfort without luxury prices

⭐ Luxury ($80-300+/night)

4-5 star hotels, heritage properties, resorts

Premium accommodations with restaurants, spas, pools, concierge. Heritage hotels in renovated Rana palaces. International standards. Mountain lodges near Everest with incredible views.

Best for: Luxury travelers, special occasions, comfort seekers

✈️ Domestic Flights

Fast but weather-dependent

Essential for reaching remote trekking areas. Lukla (Everest), Jomsom (Annapurna), Pokhara main destinations. Small aircraft (15-18 seats). Mountain weather causes frequent delays/cancellations - always buffer days.

Cost: Kathmandu-Lukla $180-220, Kathmandu-Pokhara $100-130
Tip: Book left side Kathmandu-Lukla for Everest views. Delays common in monsoon and winter.

🚌 Tourist Buses

Comfortable, reliable, affordable

Connect major cities and trekking hubs. AC buses with reserved seats, occasional stops. Kathmandu-Pokhara 6-7hrs, Kathmandu-Chitwan 5-6hrs. Greelin, Greenline popular companies. Depart morning, arrive afternoon.

Cost: Kathmandu-Pokhara $8-15, Kathmandu-Chitwan $7-12
Tip: Book day before, sit on left for mountain views to Pokhara.

🚕 Taxis & Ride-hailing

Convenient city transport

Taxis everywhere in cities. Few use meters - agree price before starting. Pathao, InDrive ride-sharing apps available in Kathmandu/Pokhara. Motorcycle taxis (PathaoMoto) cheap for solo travelers.

Cost: Short ride NPR 200-400 ($1.50-3), airport-Thamel NPR 700-1,000
Tip: Use apps for fair prices, or negotiate 20-30% below initial quote.

🚙 Private Jeep/Car Hire

Flexibility and comfort

Hire with driver for multi-day trips or direct trekking access. 4WD jeeps reach many trailheads. Split costs with other travelers. Book through hotels/agencies. Negotiate all-inclusive price (fuel, driver food/accommodation).

Cost: $60-100 per day depending on vehicle and distance
Tip: Clarify all costs upfront, driver experience on mountain roads important.

🚐 Local Buses

Budget option, adventurous

Very cheap but crowded, uncomfortable, slow. Connect all towns/villages. No schedules, leave when full. Luggage on roof. Cultural experience but not recommended for long distances with backpack. Use for short local trips.

Cost: Extremely cheap - NPR 50-500 ($0.40-4) for most routes
Tip: Arrive early for seat, protect valuables, brace for bumpy roads.

🏍️ Motorcycles & Scooters

For experienced riders only

Rent in Kathmandu/Pokhara for exploring independently. Chaotic traffic, poor road conditions, minimal enforcement. International license required. Helmets mandatory. Popular for Pokhara area exploration.

Cost: Scooter NPR 800-1,500/day, motorcycle NPR 1,500-3,000/day
Warning: Traffic dangerous. Many accidents. Not recommended for inexperienced riders.

🪂 Paragliding

Location: Pokhara (world-class site)

Soar above Phewa Lake with Annapurna range as backdrop. Tandem flights with experienced pilots. 30min-1hr flights. Thermals allow long, smooth flights. Photos/videos available. One of best paragliding sites globally.

Cost: $75-100 for 30min, $120-150 for 1hr

🚣 White Water Rafting

Rivers: Trishuli, Bhote Koshi, Kali Gandaki, Sun Koshi

Half-day to multi-day expeditions. Grade II (easy) to Grade V (extreme) rapids. Trishuli most popular (3-4hrs from Kathmandu). Bhote Koshi steepest (intense!). Sun Koshi best multi-day. All equipment provided, no experience needed for easier grades.

Cost: $25-40 for day trip, $200-400 for multi-day

🪢 Bungee Jumping

Location: The Last Resort, Bhote Koshi River

160m jump from suspension bridge over wild river gorge. One of world's highest bungee jumps. Operated by experienced New Zealand team. 3hrs from Kathmandu. Includes canyon swing option. Medical clearance required.

Cost: $100-120 including transport from Kathmandu

🧗 Rock Climbing

Location: Nagarjun (Kathmandu), Astam (Pokhara)

Natural rock faces and bolted sport routes. Nagarjun has 200+ routes. Pokhara crags gaining popularity. Equipment rental available. Guides for beginners. Popular training before peak climbing expeditions.

Cost: $30-50 for guided half-day session

🚴 Mountain Biking

Trails: Kathmandu Valley rim, Pokhara, Mustang

Valley rim routes, single-track mountain trails, multi-day expeditions. Kathmandu-Nagarkot popular day ride. Mustang offers epic high-altitude desert riding. Bike rental/tours available. Challenging terrain but spectacular views.

Cost: Bike rental $15-30/day, guided tours $50-100/day

🪂 Ultra-light Flights

Location: Pokhara

Motorized ultra-light aircraft flights along Annapurna range. 15min-1hr options. Closer to mountains than paragliding. Smoother, less weather-dependent. Views of Machapuchare, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri. Photos included.

Cost: $90-200 depending on duration

🏔️ Peak Climbing

Peaks: Island Peak (6,189m), Mera Peak (6,476m), Lobuche East (6,119m)

Trekking peaks requiring basic mountaineering skills. Island Peak most popular. Requires crampons, ice axe, rope skills. Join organized expeditions or hire guides. 15-20 day trips. Excellent introduction to Himalayan climbing.

Cost: $2,000-3,500 for organized expedition

🧘 Yoga & Meditation Retreats

Location: Kathmandu, Pokhara, Lumbini

Multi-day retreats, drop-in classes, teacher training courses. Buddhist meditation courses at monasteries. Vipassana courses (10-day silent meditation). Yoga classes common in Pokhara lakeside. From beginner to advanced.

Cost: Drop-in classes $5-15, retreats $200-800 for 7-10 days

🦅 Mountain Flight

Route: Kathmandu scenic flight to Everest

One-hour flight close to Everest and Himalayan peaks. Every passenger gets window seat. Best views early morning. Includes Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Cho Oyu. Perfect for those unable to trek. Certificate provided.

Cost: $200-250 per person

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Nepal boasts 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites showcasing centuries of artistic brilliance and spiritual devotion.

Cultural Sites (Kathmandu Valley):

• 🏛️ Kathmandu Durbar Square - Royal palace complex, temples, Living Goddess Kumari
• 🏛️ Swayambhunath - 2,000-year-old Buddhist stupa, "Monkey Temple"
• 🏛️ Boudhanath Stupa - Largest spherical stupa in Nepal, Tibetan Buddhist center
• 🏛️ Pashupatinath Temple - Sacred Hindu temple complex, cremation ghats
• 🏛️ Patan Durbar Square - Medieval Newari architecture, museums, courtyards
• 🏛️ Bhaktapur Durbar Square - Best-preserved medieval city
• 🏛️ Changu Narayan - Oldest Hindu temple in Kathmandu Valley (4th century)
• 🏛️ Lumbini - Birthplace of Lord Buddha, major pilgrimage site

Natural Sites:

• 🌿 Chitwan National Park - Wildlife sanctuary, rhinos, tigers
• 🌿 Sagarmatha National Park - Everest region, Sherpa culture

Living Traditions

Nepal's cultural diversity is extraordinary - over 120 ethnic groups speaking more than 123 languages, creating a mosaic of customs preserved for millennia.

Major Ethnic Groups & Cultures:

• Newars: Indigenous people of Kathmandu Valley, renowned artisans, traders, skilled in metalwork and woodcarving. Hindu and Buddhist. Unique festivals and cuisine.
• Sherpas: Tibetan Buddhist people from high mountain regions (Everest area). Famous mountaineering expertise, warm hospitality, strong spiritual traditions.
• Tamangs: Largest Tibeto-Burman group, practice Buddhism, live mainly in hills around Kathmandu, rich musical traditions.
• Gurungs: From Annapurna region, historically served in Gurkha regiments, practice Buddhism and Hinduism, famous for Ghatu dance.
• Tharus: Indigenous to Terai lowlands, unique culture distinct from hill communities, animist traditions blended with Hinduism, skilled farmers.

Cultural Experiences: Participate in traditional Newari festivals, witness Sherpa monastery ceremonies, learn traditional Nepali cooking, attend classical music and dance performances, visit working craft workshops, and share tea with local families in mountain villages.

♻️ Reduce Plastic Waste

• ✓ Bring reusable water bottle and purification tablets/filter
• ✓ Refill from tea house boiled water (NPR 50-100/liter)
• ✓ Refuse plastic bags - bring reusable shopping bag
• ✓ Use metal/bamboo straws instead of plastic
• ✓ Take all trash back down mountain with you

🏔️ Respect Environment

• ✓ Stay on designated trails - shortcuts cause erosion
• ✓ Don't pick flowers or disturb wildlife
• ✓ Use designated toilet facilities, never in nature
• ✓ Don't feed wild animals - disrupts natural behavior
• ✓ Minimize noise pollution in wilderness areas

👥 Support Local Communities

• ✓ Hire local guides and porters from trekking regions
• ✓ Eat and sleep at local tea houses
• ✓ Buy handicrafts directly from artisans
• ✓ Choose locally-owned accommodations
• ✓ Tip guides and porters generously - they depend on it

🪵 Conserve Resources

• ✓ Limit shower time at tea houses (solar-heated water)
• ✓ Use communal dining room heating instead of room heaters
• ✓ Turn off lights and unplug chargers when leaving room
• ✓ Don't request wood fires - causes deforestation
• ✓ Reuse towels rather than requesting daily washing

🎒 Porter Welfare

• ✓ Limit porter loads to 20kg (ethical agencies enforce this)
• ✓ Ensure your porter has proper gear (jacket, boots)
• ✓ Verify porter insurance included in trek package
• ✓ Treat porters with respect - share meals, chat
• ✓ Tip fairly - porters earn minimal base wages

🤝 Cultural Respect

• ✓ Ask permission before photographing people
• ✓ Dress modestly, especially at religious sites
• ✓ Learn basic Nepali phrases - locals appreciate effort
• ✓ Don't give money/candy to children (creates begging culture)
• ✓ Support schools/community projects instead of direct giving