Best places to visit in Nepal

Nepal is known for its picturesque natural beauty, and trekking has long been the main activity for many visitors. However, there are a plethora of amazing places to visit in Nepal which don’t involve hiking or camping. From majestic temples and ancient palaces to lush green hills and valleys, here is a list of top places you should consider visiting if you want to explore Nepal beyond trekking. 

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Located just outside Kathmandu, this site contains an array of old temples, monuments and historic buildings that are remnants from medieval times. A visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site will leave you with some wonderful memories. 

Pokhara

This tranquil lake-side city provides stunning views of the snow-capped Annapurna range, making it one of the best tourist destinations in Nepal. There are numerous adventure activities that you can partake in such as paragliding and zip lining. Moreover, there are plenty of relaxing activities like boating on the tranquil Phewa Lake. 

Chitwan National Park

Located at the heart of the Terai region of southern Nepal, Chitwan National Park is a perfect spot for wildlife lovers who want to explore beyond trekking routes in Nepal. Home to diverse species such as elephants, rhinos and crocodiles; Chitwan offers incredible safari experiences where visitors get up close with these amazing creatures! 

Bardia National Park

Situated on the western plains bordering India; Bardia National Park boasts some beautiful sights that make it a must-visit destination when exploring non-trekking sites in Nepal. Activities like river rafting and elephant rides can be experienced here along with great wildlife sightings including tigers and leopards. 

Muktinath Temple

Situated at an elevation of around 3710m (12,172ft) at Mustang district; this sacred temple serves as a pilgrimage site for Hindus from all over the world who come here seeking spiritual peace and enlightenment by taking a dip into the holy waters of Mukti Kunda or sacred spring pools found near the temple complex.

Lumbini

For those looking for a place steeped in culture, then look no further than Lumbini; the birthplace of Lord Buddha himself! Here visitors can learn more about Buddhism as well as experience peaceful meditation in one of the many temples scattered around this tranquil destination near Kapilvastu town on India’s border with Nepal. 

Best places to visit in Nepal’s capital Kathmandu

Kathmandu, The capital city of Nepal is a bustling metropolis known for its unique architecture, rich culture and ancient temples. From temples to historical places, Kathmandu offers something for everyone. Here are five of the most popular places to visit in Kathmandu:

Pashupatinath Temple

This revered Hindu temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the holiest sites for Hindus around the world. It is also home to several ghats (stone stairs leading into the holy water) that visitors can visit while here.

Bouddhanath Stupa

One of the largest stupas in Nepal, Bouddhanath is a sacred pilgrimage site and has been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can climb up the four levels of this majestic stupa or wander through its peaceful environment admiring its beautiful artworks.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Home to three palaces—Hanuman Dhoka Palace Complex, Taleju Temple, and Kasthamandap—Kathmandu Durbar Square was once used as an ancient seat of Nepalese monarchy. The palace complex is surrounded by temples and monuments that provide insight into the glorious past of Nepal’s Malla Dynasty.

Patan Durbar Square

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Patan Durbar Square is situated in Lalitpur district, close to Kathmandu. It contains hundreds of monuments including palaces and pagodas built by kings who reigned over Nepal during ancient times. 

Swoyambhunath Temple

Known popularly as ‘The Monkey Temple’ due to large number of monkeys inhabiting this Buddhist stupa, Swoyambhunath is one of the oldest religious sites in Nepal with numerous statues of Buddha inside it. From its hilltop position overlooking Kathmandu Valley, you can enjoy breathtaking views from sunrise to sunset.

These were just some amazing sites to visit when exploring beyond treks while vacationing in Nepal! Each destination has something special to offer and we’re sure you won’t be disappointed if you decide to explore these lesser known gems in this remarkable country full of natural wonders!