Nepal, located in South Asia in the Himalayan mountain range between China and India, has the most diverse landscapes. Nepal attracts travelers from all over the world with its snow-capped mountains, subtropical forests, a welcoming culture rich with centuries-old temples and shrines, a variety of colorful festivals, and a variety of exotic wares to peruse and purchase. From adrenaline-pumping adventure activities like mountain trekking, kayaking, and paragliding to finding spiritual awakening by strolling among medieval temples, this country offers more valuable experiences than many other countries. If you plan to visit Nepal on your next tropical vacation, here are the top 10 places to visit in Nepal in 2022 that you should add to your bucket list.
1. Kathmandu
Kathmandu, Nepal's capital and largest city, is unlike any other city in the world. The town is lovely, vibrant, bustling, serene, and alive, and it is home to about 1.5 million people. Kathmandu is the most connected city in the country, with all international flights landing at the city's airport. It lies at an altitude of a whopping 1400 meters, or 4600 feet, ensuring a blissful climate all year long. In the past, it was one of three rival royal cities, along with Bhaktapur and Patan, situated closely. Today they almost ran together. Kathmandu is a chaotic mix of vibrant shops, trekking agencies, hotels, restaurants, historic temples, carved statues, and artisan workshops. Durbar Square can be mentioned as the city's main highlight. It is a UNESCO world heritage site and the largest palace square in the three royal cities. Although the 2015 earthquake damaged it, many intact sites are worth exploring. Another must-visit destination in Kathmandu is the Swayambhunath Buddhist temple complex, which is set on a forested hill. The sweeping views of the Kathmandu Valley from the top are absolutely stunning. Swapna Bagaicha, also known as the Garden of Dreams, is another tourist hotspot, and it is an excellent place to escape from the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu.
2. Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur City, one of three ancient capitals in the Kathmandu Valley, is located just outside of Kathmandu on the traditional trade route to Tibet. Bhaktapur is also known as Bhadgaon and Khwopa, and unlike Patan and Kathmandu, its population is predominantly Hindu. The city has been divided into three squares, each filled with temples and other religious structures. However, Bhaktapur Durbar Square is the most popular attraction. In addition to the royal palace, there are various temples. Because of its historical significance, the entire area has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although Bhaktapur experienced a fair share of damage during the 2015 earthquakes, fortunately, most of the city's main attractions escaped. Visitors must pay NPR 1500 as the entry fee, and it is used to maintain the temples in Bhaktapur.
3. Boudhanath Stupa (Bodhnath)
The Boudhanath Stupa, just outside Kathmandu, is considered one of the largest of its kind in the world. The stupa dates back to around the 6th century, possibly even earlier. Like Bhaktapur, this site lies on the old trade route to Tibet, and it is also named a UNESCO world heritage site. At Boudhanath, the stupa represents enlightenment, but at Boudhanath, the representation is evident. Each shape represents one of the five elements, earth, water, fire, air, and sphere, the five Buddhas' attributes. This stupa also received minor damage from the 2015 earthquake, and it is fully repaired at the moment.
4. Pokhara
Pokhara is the second-largest town in Nepal, after Kathmandu, and is located at the foothills of some of the world's highest mountains, including Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Annapurna. You'll immediately notice the much cleaner air and pleasant weather as it lies at an altitude of more than 900m. For adventure enthusiasts, Pokhara offers many world-famous treks. It is the Himalayan entrance and the starting point for walks to Jomsom and the Annapurna region. The lakeside is the town's main attraction.
Phewa Lake is the largest of Pokhara's three lakes, Phewa Lake, is lined with luxury hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops and is home to many beautiful historical temples. The tranquil blue water of the lake flawlessly reflects the mountains that border it, which makes for a breathtaking sight to see. Pokhara city offers some paragliding and river rafting opportunities as well. Seti Gandaki river rafting and white water rafting are offered on Seti Gandaki and her tributaries. So it is a beautiful spot to relax for a bit, either before or after a hike. Don't miss the chance to buy some handicrafts, woodwork, and woolwork from the shops whenever you visit Pokhara.
5. Chitwan National Park
If seeing wildlife is on your list, taking a wildlife safari to Chitwan National Park is the best option that you have. The national park is located in the subtropical inner Terai plains of south-central Nepal and has an area of 952.63 square kilometers. The park provides an excellent opportunity to get up close and personal with exotic animals like elephants, Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceros, leopards, Indian bison, deer, and many others. Sometimes you can spot freshwater dolphins (Gangetic) and crocodiles inhabiting the rivers and streams. In addition to the jeep tours, visitors can experience the park thru jungle treks, elephant rides, and canoe rides. It is home to more than 500 bird species, making it a paradise for ornithologists. The national park was also named as a UNESCO world heritage site. Luxury resorts can be found at the edge of the park, and the nearby village of Sauraha offers affordable accommodation. The months from October to February can be considered the best times to visit there. The monsoon season lasts from June to September, with frequent heavy rain.
6. Patan
Situated across the Bagmati River from Kathmandu, Patan is the third-largest city in Nepal, right after Kathmandu and Pokhara. Once, it was an independent and mighty kingdom of the Kathmandu Valley. Patan is as well known for its artisans as its stunning display of Newari architecture, built in the 17th century. Patan has a Durbar Square, with statues, temples, and palaces. In addition, Durbar Square also has the 'Patan museum,' which is a must-see attraction. It has become a melting pot of two famous religions, Hinduism and Buddhism. Right in the middle of Patan, you can see a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. With its multi-columned façade and gilded spires, the temple is particularly striking. Patan is considered one of the best destinations in Nepal to buy gorgeous handmade silk saris, handicrafts, traditional jewelry, Buddha statues, and masks.
7. Lumbini
Nestled in the Himalayas near the Indian border, the beautiful town of Lumbini is the place where Lord Buddha was born. This legendary site attracts Buddhist pilgrims worldwide, with archeological finds dating back to around 550 B.C. Here, Buddha's mother, Maya Devi, gave birth near a tree in the garden, now a temple—bearing her name, Maya Devi temple. An ancient stone marker relief from the 2nd century A.D. depicts Buddha's birth. At the center of the Lumbini park, there are multiple monasteries, sacred ponds, meditation centers, and cultural facilities, which Japanese architect Kenzo Tange designed. Visitors could study scriptures, meditate, practice yoga, trek, learn more about Buddhism and find inner peace. The Bodhi Tree in Lumbini Garden, the Pushkarini Sacred Pond, and the Ashoka Stupa (Pillar), built-in 249 B.C., are the other significant attractions in the Lumbini Garden. There is a feeling of tranquility in this pilgrimage town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
8. Swyambhunath (Monkey Temple)
Swayambhunath is one of the most important temples in the Kathmandu valley, only second to Boudhanath. It lies on a hilltop to the west of Kathmandu. The temple is known as the Monkey Temple because of its large population of monkeys. The temple's highlight is the Swayambhu Stupa, painted with the omnipresent God's eyes. The temple complex dates back to the 5th century. It plays a significant role for Vajrayana Buddhists in northern Nepal and Tibet and Newari Buddhists in the Kathmandu valley. This temple complex also caused minor damage from the 2015 earthquake, but it is fully repaired.
9. Nagarkot
For travelers who like to experience the beauty and majesty of the Himalayas without arduous physical activity, visiting Nagarkot is the best option that you have. It is located a 28-kilometer drive away from Kathmandu. With 7000 feet (2000 meters), Nagarkot offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas in the entire region and the Kathmandu Valley. A panoramic view included 8 out of the 13 Himalayan ranges. On a clear day, you will be able to spot Annapurna, Manaslu, Langtang, Jugal, Everest, Number, Ganesh Himal, and the Rolwaling ranges. The only sounds you'll hear in this picturesque village are birds tweeting and the breeze whistling thru the woods. The city has a broad mixture of hotels to suit all budgets. Many of them are within walking distance of the Nagarkot viewpoint, known as the best place to visit in Nepal to view the sun rising over the Himalayas.
10. Janakpur
Janakpur, located in south-central Nepal in the Terai plains, was the birthplace of Goddess Sita and the spot of her marriage to Lord Ram.
In addition, Janakpur was once the capital of a millennia-old Indian kingdom known as Mithila, and the Maithili culture still thrives here. As the city is home to seventy ponds, Janakpur is also known as the city of ponds. The main attraction in Janakpur is the Ram Janaki Temple, and hundreds of Hindus from all over the world visit the temple to celebrate their wedding anniversary. Janakpurdham is the center of Mithila culture and another tourist hotspot in Janakpur. Visiting Janakpur may provide you with a fantastic opportunity to see the actual areas referenced in the great epic as well as listen to local lore. Pleasant weather conditions, colorful Hindu festivals throughout the year, ancient temples with stunning architecture, and friendly locals make Janakpur a popular tourist destination in Nepal.
