Choose from 40 Fun Things to Do in Nepal
Langtang National Park
Basics Information
Langtang National Park was established in 1976 as Nepal's first Himalayan national park and the country's fourth protected area. It exceeds an altitudinal range of 6,450 m (21,160 ft) and covers an area of 1,710 km2 (660 sq mi) in the Nuwakot, Rasuwa and Sindhulpalchok Districts of the central Himalayan region encompassing 26 village communities. In the north and east it is linked with Qomolangma National Nature Preserve in Tibet. The western boundary follows the Bhote Kosi and Trishuli Rivers. The southern border lies 32 km (20 mi) north of the Kathmandu Valley.
The high altitude sacred Gosainkunda lake is located at an altitude of 4,300 m (14,100 ft) inside the park. The Dorje Lakpa range at 6,988 m (22,927 ft) bisects the park from west–east to south–east. The summit of Langtang Lirung (7,245 m (23,770 ft)) is the highest point in the park.
Langtang National Park is part of the Sacred Himalayan Landscape.
Sauraha Village
- Some tour operators still offer elephant-back safaris. These are not recommended because of the cruel way that elephants are trained. Jeep or ox-cart safaris are preferable.
- Hundreds of one-horned rhinoceros live in Chitwan because of a successful breeding program. Visitors are almost guaranteed a sighting.
- There’s an entry fee for the park, with different prices for Nepalis, citizens of SAARC countries, and other visitors. Tickets are valid for one day.
Sundarijal
Practical Info
Nagi Gompa
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Rudra Varna Mahavihar
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Manakamana Temple
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Trisuli River
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Lukla
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Patan
While the dozens of other temples scattered throughout Patan are well worth visiting, the main draw here is the shopping. Many notable local artists hail from Patan, and the city’s shops are known for their metal and carved wood handicrafts in particular. You can also buy traditional Tibetan paintings, called Thanka and books from a couple shops that carry an English language selection.
If you find yourself turned off by the chaos and crowds of Thamel in nearby Kathmandu, consider basing yourself in Patan instead. You’ll find a handful of budget to mid-range lodging options as well as dozens of cafes and restaurants to choose from.
Sagarmatha National Park
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Pashupatinath
The complex dates back to around 400 AD, but the current temple was rebuilt during the 17th century. According to local legends, the site of the temple was where the god Shiva hid from the rest of the gods by taking the form of an antelope. When the gods caught him, they broke off one of his horns which fell to the ground on the spot where the temple currently stands. While non-Hindus aren’t always allowed inside the main temple, those who do enter can see another phallic symbol of Shiva worshiped within.
A visit to Pashupatinath may also present the opportunity to witness a fascination -- though certainly somber -- cultural ceremony. Many Hindus bring their dead to be cremated on the steps leading down to the river just outside the temple. Often you’ll see the covered bodies paraded through the temple grounds, past hordes of monkeys and sadhus, toward the river.
Thamel District
- In late 2017, several of the main streets of Thamel were pedestrianized. It is now quite comfortable to walk around.
- Thamel is home to some children who live on the street and beg. It’s not advisable to give them money.
- Thamel is not generally dangerous, but it’s a good idea to be extra careful with your valuables, especially when out at night.
- Hotels along Thamel Marg can be noisy on weekend nights, with the sound of bars and live music nearby.
Nagarkot
- Although Nagarkot is not far from Kathmandu, poor roads mean it can take three hours to reach.
- Some accommodations in Nagarkot have mountain views—request them if that’s your preference.
- The viewing tower is a great place from which to snap a photo. Arrive well in advance of sunrise or sunset to get a good spot.
Phakding
- Depending upon time of arrival in Lukla, as well as your general fitness level, it may not be necessary to stop overnight in Phakding.
- Learn the signs of altitude sickness before heading out to the Everest region, and be prepared to head back to lower elevation if they appear.
- While there are many lodges (or teahouses) to stay at in Phakding and other settlements nearby, these fill up fast in the peak season. Hiking with a guide is the safest way and will guarantee you a place to sleep.
Shivapuri National Park
Practical Info
Krishna Temple (Krishna Mandir)
- Non-Hindus cannot go inside the temple itself but can admire the building from the outside.
- Non-Nepalis must pay an entry fee to enter Patan Durbar Square. The price differs for citizens of SAARC countries and other nationalities.
- You will see many people around Krishna Temple trying to lure tourists into paid Durbar Square tours. If this interests you, check credentials first, and don’t feel pressured into paying for services that you don’t want.
Swayambhunath
- Sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists, Swayambhunath is one of the city’s top attractions.
- Knees and shoulders covered: make sure to dress modestly when entering shrines.
- Prepare for a tough climb and factor in breaks if needed: there are almost 400 steps to the top.
- Be careful when carrying food or personal belongings—monkeys have been known to snatch.
The Himalayas and Mt Everest
The best time to enjoy the Himalayas and views of Mt Everest are from early March through the middle of May and again from early September through mid-November when temperatures are relatively warm and the skies tend to be clear and blue. From Kathmandu, it’s possible to trek into the Himalayas for a day to multiple weeks, hopping from one village to the next along the way. To see the mountains from above, take a flight tour of the Himalayas or a Mt Everest fly-by.
Namche Bazaar
- The trek from Lukla up to Namche is challenging and steep, so you need to be quite fit.
- While acclimatizing in Namche, check out a few cultural attractions, such as the Namche Monastery, Khangba Ngingma (the town’s oldest Sherpa home), and the Sherpa Museum.
- You can buy all kinds of souvenirs in Namche, but you’d have to trek with them, so it’s better to shop when you’re back in Kathmandu.
- Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and spend at least one night in Namche before going further. Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of serious altitude sickness, and be prepared to return to lower elevation if need be.