Top 27 things to do in Nepal

A small country with the explosion of color and taste, Nepal may seem lousy for those who are laid back but for the wild riders, Nepal has everything to offer. It is an exciting roller coaster that offers pictorial cascade highlighting the brink of its serene natural beauty to its rawness and rigid terrain. With high dangerous grounds and climates dropping down below zero degree, might sound uneasy to the normal ears but for adventure seekers it’s a life time experience. It’s not a way of life for the fate hearted but for those who like to push themselves to the edges, everyday is a new experience and exploration. Orchestrating the rich colors of tradition and culture to the advent of adventure sports like bungee, paragliding, canyoning, zip line etc to the world highest and deepest, you name it’s here.
Expiring the quotes of travel map, the hustle and bustle of the crowded streets may seem chaotic and the uprising concrete jungle may look un-managed. But within the stench it hides the ancient cities that embrace the temples where history speaks the language and people live their tradition. Every day the morning starts with a colorful bliss of the bells where people indulge themselves to the different festivity and rituals of colors. Frankly speaking it is a dramatic situation where people consolidate their presence in tradition and culture. With the Tradition of the living goddess KUMARI to the craftsmanship of Patan and Bhaktapur to the spicy food, it just makes you feel nostalgic in every essence of the happenings where you cannot find this experience anywhere else in earth.
However, the gentle hands greeting with respect and the sense of enthusiasm may not be familiar but the welcoming smiles makes you feel at home. From the butter lamps spreading the message of peace to the Mount Everest that stands tall as the world tallest, Nepal is yet another simple destination that holds loads of excitement and adventure.
You may be amazed with the fact that Nepal offers so much but the question still remains why you should not travel here; the only answer that comes up again and again is there is only one Nepal that offers the kaleidoscopic of tradition, culture and adventure, so it hard to resist. It may not offers the best facilities but it offers what the world has not seen…..

1. Climb Everest Before You Die!

Mountaineering is an adventurous treat for adventure enthusiasts. Nepal has 8 highest mountains of the world out of 14 above 8000m offers the world highest mountain expedition. Mountain expedition in Nepal was opened in 1949 and since then it has become one of the popular destination for mountain expedition in the world. Apart from that Mt Everest is the Mecca for mountaineers. It’s one of the most prized dreams that all adventure enthusiast   cherish. Climbing Everest is not only expensive and but to scale Everest you need to be in top notch physical condition. It is a complete test of mind body and soul that takes everything.

2. Adventurous white water River Rafting

Best known around the world for white water rafting, Nepal’s thundering waters, are rated simply the best.  Major rivers of Nepal are sourced from Himalayas where Rafting is one of the most important tourism activities. Nepal is ranked 2nd largest country for water resources and has 1310 rivers among them more than 12 rivers are very popular for river rafting in Nepal. Some of the popular rivers for rafting are Like Trishuli River, Seti River, Bhote Koshi River, Kali Gandaki River, Marsyandi River, Sun Koshi River, Arun River, Karnali River ,Tamur River are major river for Rafting.

3. Feel the breath taking sunrise and sunset at Nagarkot

At an elevation close to 6,800 feet above sea level, it is one of the most scenic spots in the region. Renowned for its sunrise and sunset views of the Himalayas, Nagarkot also offers a panoramic view of the Valley and is described by visitors as a place whose beauty endures year round. Nagarkot boasts very magnificent and stunning sights of Mount Everest in the East and Dhaulagiri range in the West. Similarly, for those who are a huge fan of hiking, Sundarijal, Bhaktapur and Banepa are the most sought-after-destinations.

4. Explore the Spirituality and meditate in Nepal

Many travelers come to Nepal for meditation, yoga, astrology, retreat and to merge with the mighty Himalayas. Nepal is renowned for its abundance in fascinating, stunning and exotic sights and sounds. Nepal is special for mountain lovers, who love to enjoy and explore diverse range of flora and fauna, varieties of the culture or simply to have special holidays in the majestic mountains. The Himalaya’s atmosphere and its spectacular beauty encourage its culture and tradition and endows with several traditional disciplines in the Nepal. Many travelers come to Nepal for meditation, yoga, astrology massage, Buddhist studies, alternative medicine and homeopathy to choose from, Nepal has plenty to offer to your mind and the body.

5. Survive the ABC Trekking

Renowned in the world for its toughness and Annapurna Base Camp Trekking is considered one of the rigorous trekking in the world. The Annapurna Base Camp trekking begins north of the central city of Pokhara which is reached by a 6-7 hour bus ride of a 20 minute flight from Kathmandu. It begins at the village of Nayapul at just 1090m (1½ hours drive from Pokhara) and climbs gradually up the Modi Khola Valley through natural forests of oak, rhododendron, pine and bamboo. Villages are sited on ridges high above the river where slopes are gentle enough for terraced farming. Nepal has some of the most spectacular, exciting and breathtaking trekking routes that nowhere can be found in the world, therefore, Trekking in Nepal’s prolific trekking routes are one of the main tourist attractions, offering breathtaking scenery and exotic wildlife.

6. Honey hunting in Nepal

Nepal is an amazing destination that hides many tradition and culture; from the cultural heritage to the cliff high end honey hunting expedition nothing beats the adrenaline with the real definition of adventure.  Honey hunting to be precise is collecting wild honey from the hive hanging on a rock hundreds of meters high where as Honey Hunting in Nepal is an age old tradition in the mountains of Nepal that the local people celebrate risking their lives. The hives are set up in the rock cliff approximately 300-400 meters from the ground by the indigenous bees. The locals reach such height with the help of ladder and ropes with no secured line or safety harness with just the intention of getting the honey.

7. Enjoy Bhaktapur durbar square

A 15 centaury Newari towns, Bhaktapur hold the life and presence of a cultural heritage and presence.  The third largest city in Kathmandu valley was once the capital of Nepal during the great Malla Kingdom until the second half of the 15th century. Bhaktapur is listed as a World Heritage by UNESCO for its rich culture, temples, and wood, metal and stone artwork.

8. Wilderness in action with jungle safari in Chitwan

Jungle safari to view wild animals and birds of unique exposure is one of the thrilling experiences you ever have.  The tropical jungles of the Terai preserve some of the best wildlife habitat in Asia, while the high Himalayas makes up Nepal’s northern region, the southern flatland known as the Terai is covered with dense tropical jungle. Parsa Wildlife Reserve, Bardia National Park, Chitwan National Park and the Shukla Phanta wildlife reserve, offer jungle safari on elephant back or jeep rides.

9. Live another day with Bungee Jump

Located close to the Nepal-Tibet border, Nepal’s bungy jumping site is situated 160m over the Bhote Kosi River following into a gorge over 2,000 metres (6,600 ft) from the river. It is a three-hour bus ride from Kathmandu. Bungy jumping at the Last Resort is one of the longest in the world. It is higher than the highest bungy in the New Zealand. One can feel and enjoy the jumps that lays on the bridge of bhote koshi.

10. Fly like a bird with paragliding

Paragliding in the Himalayan region is a truly wonderful and fulfilling experience for the adventure seeker. Experience the unparalleled scenic grandeur as you soar over villages, monasteries, temples, lakes and jungle, while sharing airspace with Himalayan griffins, eagles, and kites. Paragliding is a seasonal sport; the flying season in Nepal commences in November, and runs through to February, the best months being November and December.

11. Amazing Elephant Polo

Elephant polo ion Nepal started in 1982, the five-day championship event invites the polo chapters from India, Scotland, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Thailand and Nepal to Tiger Tops, a conservation resort in Nepal’s Chitwan National Park. This year’s event starts on 25 November and features the best teams from around the world. The game is played with a standard polo ball. The sticks are made of bamboo and have a standard polo mallet on the end. It is an amazing experience that has taken a world class status.

12. Go Boating in Phewa Lake

Phewa Lake, is a freshwater lake located in the south of the Pokhara Valley. It is the second largest lake in Nepal, the largest in Gandaki Zone followed by Begnas Lake. The lake is located at an altitude of 742 m (2,434 ft) it covers an area of about 5.23 km2 (2.0 sq mi) with an average depth of about 8.6 m (28 ft) with maximum water depth is 24 m (79 ft). Maximum water capacity of the lake is approximately 4,600,000 cubic metres (3,700 acre·ft). Distant Annapurna loom and the reflection of Mt Machhapuchhare are some of breathtaking view you can witness from Phewa Lake. Within the lake is the Barahi Temple which is situated on an island in the lake. One can see the rich practice of tradition and culture here. A whole day can be spent rowing or being rowed by the local boatmen in the lakes of Pokhara. No words can define the way anyone feels while boating and touching water waves.

13. Do Kayaking

Kayaking is usually an individual water sport. Kayakers move through the water with a double blade paddle understanding river flow, negotiating rapids and obstacles on the river, enjoying unity with nature and the river. With its wide range of rivers and wealth of challenging rapids, Nepal is the perfect destination for kayaking. Whether you are a total beginner or an experienced white water kayaker keen to tackle one of our more challenging rivers, we can arrange a fun and rewarding kayaking experience for you.

14. Feel Everest with Mountain Flight

Mountain Flight is the best ways to see Mt Everest , one can see the intricate geographic creation without wasting any energy. The views are breathtaking and are recommended for every tourist and traveler. Flights are available all days except for drastic climatic condition.

The plane departs from Kathmandu and flies alongside the Himalayas to give you eye-level views of snow-capped peaks before brining you back in just one hour. The Himalayan flight is also a great to those who have done trekking and climbing trip in Himalaya besides the Everest.  In general your visit to Nepal simply can’t be considered complete if you have not seen and photograph the Mount Everest with your camera yourself.

15. Take a walk in the religious practice or Cultural Tour:
    
    Nepal is a multi cultural country that practices various culture and tradition.  However, the religion has become strongly intermingled with Buddhism and as such it is difficult in reality to define Nepal as one or the other. Nepal has been declared as a secular country by the Parliament on May 18, 2006. The people are divided into Paharis people living in hilly region, Madeshis people living in the plains and Bhotias people living in the Himalayan region respectively. The sure-footed Sherpas and Tamangs live a largely nomadic life in the upper Himalayas. Madeshis are largely of Tibetan-Burmese origin including groups such as the Rais, Limbus, Jirels, Gurungs, Thapalis and Chepangs. Tharus, Rajputs, Rajvashis, Dhimlas and Dhangars etc are the plains settlers.
16. Visit the Narayanhiti Museum 

Formally the palace of the Royal Family, The Narayanhiti Museum marks the presence and essence of Royalty in Nepal. Mostly importantly the royal Massacre that took place in 2001 marks the end king Birendra’s Family.  Spread in an area of over 700 acres, the museum has various historical relics, artifacts, sculptures and wildlife trophies on display for the public. The museum is situated near the tourist hub Thamel and has been considered to hold a great significance for tourists. Many travelers are flocking to see the Palace-turned-museum. At an entrance fee of USD 8, the museum is opened for five days a week, except Tuesday, `Wednesday and on public holidays. The visit takes approx 1.5 hrs.

17. Feel enigma of Hinduism Pashupati Temple:
    Pashupatinath is a Hindu temple located on the banks of the Bagmati River in Deopatan, a village 3 km northwest of Kathmandu. It is dedicated to a manifestation of Shiva called Pashupati (Lord of Animals).  It attracts thousands of pilgrims each year and has become well known far beyond the Kathmandu Valley. The temple is barred to non-Hindus, but a good view of the temple can be had from the opposite bank of the river. The Pashupati Temple was built in the fifth century and later renovated by Malla kings. Its original beauty still remains with the beautifully sculpted stone sculptures found here. Thousands of Hindus come each year. Similarly on the banks of the Bagmati River the cultural practice of cremation can be witness here. The main cremation site is Bhasmeshvar Ghat, which is the most-used cremation site in the Kathmandu Valley. Every day hundreds of bodies are cremated adapting various Hindu rituals which attract foreign eyes.
18. Enjoy Momos to your appetite: If you visit Kathmandu and if you miss to try momos then you certainly missed the opportunity to test your taste buds . Momos can be both vegetarian and non-vegetarian.  Especially around Kathmandu, buff Momo is popular. Nepali call buff momo for buffalo meat. Traditional momo are made with vegetables; with goat, buffalo, chicken, and pork; with a heady spice mix of wild garlic, green onion, coriander, ground cumin, salt and pepper. They are dosed with butter and eaten as breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
19. Tatsy spicy Thakali set

The Thakali food comes from the tradition of the people of Tibetan affinity who settled in Thak-Khola Valley. Thakali cuisine also uses locally-grown buckwheat, barley, millet and dal as well as rice and dal. The Thakali food set generally consist flavors of rich spicy content that shows the rich and vast array of exploration of taste buds. The Thakali set is a complete dietary supplement that is heavy and energetic full of energy and comes with an appetite full stomach.

20. Visit Lumbini Birth Place of Gautam Buddha

Recognized as the birth place of Lord Gautam Buddha, Lumbini is a world heritage site located in the Terai plains of southern Nepal. A major attraction of the place is the inscription on the pillar erected by the Mauryan Emperor Asoka in 249 BC which testifies the birth of Gautam Buddha in Nepal. Lumbini is one of the holiest places of one of the world’s great religions, and its remains contain important evidence about the nature of Buddhist pilgrimage centers from as early as the 3rd century BC.  Currently established as a business city Lumbini hold the secrets of Buddhism which are yet to be discovered.

21. Visit the living goddess Kumari

Kumari is the tradition of the living goddess of worshiping young pre-pubescent girls as manifestations of the divine female energy. From time immemorial the practice of worshipping an ordinary pre-pubescent girl as a source of supreme power has been an integral part of both Hinduism and Buddhism. It is a general belief that Goddess Taleju resides in the body of the virgin and protects the country from the bad events or evil. Tourist and travelers can visit the Kumar Ghar located at Basantapur Durbar square and get blessed

22. Cache the wind with Zipline

Zipline is one of the most popular adventures sport that ascending from top of the Sarangkot. With a vertical fall of 600 Mts the flyer speed reach upto 140kms per hour. It’s an exciting adventure sport that not only makes you feel different but has developed as a new passion for adventure enthusiasts.

23. Sweat yourself with Canyoning

Canyoning is yet another adventure sports that enthralls it’s follower with a new level of adventure and adrenaline. To be specific Canyoning involves various activities likes walking, scrambling, climbing, jumping, abseiling, and/or swimming through a canyon upon creeks or streams with using various techniques of hiking, scrambling, wading, boulder hopping, rock climbing, abseiling and rappelling. It’s an amazing full body and mind experience that enables you to explore some of the spectacular views and sights giving you an amazing 360 experience of being suspended in the air. To be specific it allows you to explore some of Nepal’s most remote wilderness in the most adventurous way that has never been seen or experienced.  You will traverse though dense jungle, over deep pools and down rocky walls and waterfalls that make you feel the real Nepal. Canyons are generally formed with narrow gorges in numerous water outlets that beautifully sculpted into the walls, and sometimes take the form of spectacular waterfalls. Most canyons are formed into limestone, sandstone, granite or basalt, though other rock types are found.

24. Rock climbing

Rock climbing is a growing passion in Nepal.  The climbing site has wide range of routes and is best place for beginners, intermediate and professional climbers. Sites likes Nagarjun, Hattiban,  Kakani, Thame , Bimal Nagar are some of the most popular sites . One can really enjoy and try ones skills with high professional instructors and trainers. If you are a beginning climbing, try out, rock climbing in Nepal and you will get a chance to test your skills.

25. Try the tasty yak cheese: with rich taste and unique blend the yak cheese is an exquisite explosion of flavors. Once you have it in your mouth your taste buds would melt like anything else. Considered as one of the favorite items of the Himalayas, the yak cheese of Nepal is King of taste and flavor. With nutritional value and belief of the yaks feeding on high altitude herbs, yak cheese is considered one of the best cheeses in the world.
26. Meditate in Boudha

Located about 11 km towards the northeastern outskirts of Kathmandu, the bouddha nath stupa is a massive mandala. The ancient Stupa is one of the largest in the world and is recognized as a world heritage. It is believe that the Stupa is on the ancient trade route from Tibet which enters Kathmandu Valley. Built during the Lichhavi period, it has been renovated time and again and the present form of stupa was renovated in the 17th century. One can learn different techniques through the lamas and Buddhist priest.  Moreover the sunset over the stupa and butter lamps glowing gives you the feel and essence of peace and patience that is priceless.

27. Ultra flight in sarangkot :

Ultra Light Flight offers you scenic views and the ability to enjoy the freedom of towering above the earth and gliding through the sky with a bird’s eye view. You will fly above the twisty rivers, breathtaking valleys, ancient, culturally, rich and diverse villages and dense forests, all backed by the Himalayan mountain range. The aircraft flies over the Pokhara city, Phewa lake Sarangkot hill at the speed of 50-90 km/hr. the maximum altitude attained is 5,000 feet. This flight is designed for the fun-lover.

These are basically some of the do list in Nepal, that practice the richness and blend of culture and tradition. Nepal celebrates life with those like pushing their limits but for others it’s just yet another day in paradise that is more than enough to look into. You may be rich or poor, lavished or carefree but the two hands respecting and greeting make it worth to visit Nepal in celebrating life that has more meanings …

Shreedeep Rayamajhi