A land of unparalleled beauty and cultural richness, Nepal captivates the hearts of all travellers who visit its enchanting landscapes. Most people know it as the abode of the highest peak in the world, the iconic Mount Everest, which is at the forefront of Nepal's allure. A tall sentinel watching over the nation, it beckons adventurers from around the globe to conquer its formidable slopes. But Nepal's appeal does not just stop at mountaineering.
From intricately carved temples to grand palaces and ancient monuments, Nepal is home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites that spreads out the nation's glorious past for visitors to witness. Explore the magnificent temples of Kathmandu Durbar Square, the architectural marvels of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, or the spiritual haven of Lumbini, the birthplace of deity Buddha. Experience the beauty, spirituality, and adventure that Nepal has to offer by exploring these major attractions. From the majestic Himalayas to the rich cultural heritage, Nepal is a destination that will leave you enchanted and longing for more.
Kathmandu Valley in Nepal is a cultural gem that beckons travellers from all corners of the globe. This enchanting region not only boasts the largest city in the country, Kathmandu, but is also home to many culturally significant structures that have earned their place as a UNESCO World Heritage treasures.
At the heart of the Kathmandu Valley lies the captivating Durbar Square of Hanuman Dhoka. This historic square houses the magnificent former royal palace, which is a testament to the region's rich history. Surrounding the square, you'll find a collection of awe-inspiring ancient buildings, although some, unfortunately, bear the scars of the devastating earthquake that shook the valley in 2015.
Within the Kathmandu Valley's UNESCO World Heritage Site, you'll also discover two majestic Buddhist stupas, adding to the spiritual tapestry of the region. Additionally, the valley boasts two renowned Hindu temples, Pashupatinath and Changu Narayan, further showcasing the religious diversity that thrives in Nepal.
Known as the "City of Devotees," Bhaktapur is a well-preserved ancient city located in the Kathmandu Valley. The Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the centrepiece of the city and showcases a stunning display of traditional Newari architecture. Marvel at the intricately carved wooden palaces, temples, and courtyards that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the Newar community. The 55-Window Palace, Nyatapola Temple, and Bhairavnath Temple are among the key attractions within the square. Take a stroll through the narrow alleys of Bhaktapur, exploring its pottery and handicraft shops, and savour the local delicacies like Juju Dhau (King Curd) and Bara (a savoury lentil pancake).
Sagarmatha National Park is a natural wonder and the first to be recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within the vast expanse of this protected area lies one of the most renowned and iconic destinations in the world, Mount Everest.
Standing tall as the highest peak on Earth, Mount Everest proudly dominates the horizon, captivating the imagination of adventurers and mountaineers from around the globe. But Sagarmatha National Park offers more than just the majestic Everest. Within its sprawling boundaries, it harbours two other members of the illustrious "eight-thousanders" club - Lhotse and Cho Oyu. Lhotse, situated on the border with China, and Cho Oyu, whose summit marks the boundary with China, add to the park's extraordinary allure.
Spanning 1,148 sq kms, Sagarmatha National Park boasts a breathtaking mountain landscape where you will be rewarded with encounters with rare wildlife, including elusive snow leopards, Himalayan tahrs, and musk deer. Trekking through the park's rugged trails, you'll be captivated by the sheer magnitude of the mountains and the ever-changing landscape that unfolds before you.
Merely three years after its inception, it achieved the prestigious status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a testament to its exceptional ecological significance.
For wildlife enthusiasts, a visit to Chitwan National Park is a must. Located in the Terai region of Nepal, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its rich biodiversity and conservation efforts. Embark on an exciting jungle safari to spot exotic wildlife, including the endangered Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, Asian elephant, and various species of deer and birds. Explore the park's dense forests on elephant-back or jeep safaris, take a canoe ride along the Rapti River, or experience a thrilling encounter with wildlife during a guided nature walk.
Situated in the Langtang region of Nepal, Langtang National Park is a haven for trekkers and nature enthusiasts. The park offers diverse landscapes, including dense forests, alpine meadows, and snow-clad peaks. Trekking trails like the Langtang Valley Trek and Gosainkunda Trek take you through picturesque valleys, quaint villages, and rhododendron-filled forests. Encounter a wide range of wildlife, including the elusive red panda, Himalayan black bear, and various species of birds. Immerse yourself in the unique Tamang culture by visiting traditional villages and interacting with the friendly locals.
Nepal is well connected by air, road, and limited rail routes. The main international gateway is Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, with direct flights from cities like Delhi, Bangkok, Doha, and Istanbul. From India, several border crossings are operational — Sunauli–Bhairahawa, Raxaul–Birgunj, and Panitanki–Kakarbhitta are commonly used. Buses and private taxis operate from Indian cities to border towns, with onward travel into Nepal by local transport.
Nepal offers a rich mix of natural beauty, religious sites, and Himalayan adventure. Kathmandu Valley is known for its heritage sites like Swayambhunath and Patan Durbar Square. Pokhara is famous for its lakes and views of the Annapurna range. Chitwan National Park offers wildlife safaris, while Lumbini is the revered birthplace of Buddha. For trekkers, the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit remain iconic.
The best time to visit Nepal is from October to December, when skies are clear, and the weather is dry — ideal for trekking and sightseeing. Spring (March to May) is also a great time, especially for rhododendron blooms and moderate temperatures. Monsoon (June to August) brings heavy rain, and winter (January to February) can be very cold in high-altitude regions.
If entering from India, popular nearby places include Varanasi, Bodh Gaya, and Darjeeling, all well connected to Nepal's border towns. Inside Nepal, short distances connect Kathmandu to places like Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, and Bhaktapur, ideal for cultural detours and mountain views. Pokhara is also a base for exploring nearby spots like Sarangkot and Begnas Lake.
Most international travellers, including Indian citizens, can enter Nepal easily. Indian nationals do not require a visa, only a valid passport or voter ID. Tourists from other countries can obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport or land borders, valid for 15/30/90 days with fees ranging from USD 30 to 125. Some nationalities may need a pre-approved visa — check with Nepal’s immigration website before travel.
