Nepal is a travelers’ delight when it comes to nature tourism and religious tour. The country is located in the lap of the Himalayas. It is home to numerous mountain peaks above 8000 meters and many splendid natural sites in the mountains. Owing to the traditional presence of Hindus and Buddhists, Nepal is home to some of the most prominent religious pilgrimages and temples. Waterfalls, rivers, lakes, etc. are major contributors to Nepal’s rich tourism industry. Here is the list of the finest places to visit in Nepal.
Pashupatinath Temple
Pashupatinath Temple
One of the most important and popular Hindu shrines in the world, Pashupatinath Temple is located on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu. The temple is dedicated to Lord Pashupatinath, an incarnation of Lord Shiva and Nepal’s national deity. Pilgrims take a dip in the sacred water of Bagmati before having a darshan of the Lord. More than a million people gather at the UNESCO World Heritage Site on the eve of Mahashivratri festival.
Chitwan National Park
Chitwan National Park
If you are a nature lover, Chitwan National Park will certainly entice you. It is a major tourist hub in Nepal, covering 952 square km of area bordering India. A variety of flora and fauna can be found in the Inner Terai subtropical forest. While White-throated Kingfisher is the most amazing bird one can find at the national park, Bengal Tigers and Great One-horned Rhinoceroses can also be glimpsed.
Annapurna Circuit Trek
Annapurna Circuit Trek
The snow-laden mountains, breathtaking vegetation, and fascinating ancient cultures – Annapurna Circuit Trek defines all these things in an amazing way. The trekking path is one of the most popular in Nepal. A large number of local and international trekkers visit this region to experience bliss and beauty. You will get an incredible experience of having a glimpse of the mighty snowy giants, picture-perfect water bodies, verdant flora, and thrilling trails on the way of the trek.
Phewa Lake
Phewa Lake
Phewa Lake is the second largest freshwater lake in Nepal. Located in Pokhara, the lake presents a wonderful reflection of the mountains in the vicinity. It is an awesome site to fall in love with Mother Nature, in the calmness-emanating setting. In between the lake, there is a temple called Tal Barahi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga. The amalgamation of spirituality and natural delight makes it one of the best tourist places in Nepal.
Durbar Squares
Durbar Squares
There are three major Durbar Squares in Nepal – Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square. All of these are listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. These buildings are the perfect examples of Nepalese art and architecture. They also show the rich history of Nepal as the buildings were the most prominent leftovers of Newar kingdoms in Nepal.
Swayambhunath
Swayambhunath
Among major tourist places in Nepal, Swayambhunath holds significant importance. The ancient Buddhist temple has a long history and is revered by Hindus also. Visit the temple and indulge in the peaceful Meditation to feel enormous divinity. Thanks to the stupa’s location on the hilltop, it gives a spectacular view of the mountains and other natural places around it.
Sagarmatha National Park
Sagarmatha National Park
Sagarmatha is the seat of Mount Everest. It is among the most beautiful regions in Nepal having a number of things to watch and praise. You can appreciate the snowy beauty of the National Park, in addition to finding solace while staying in Namche Bazar. Do not miss the astonishing beauty of the Gokyo Lakes while blessing your soul with the magnificent setting of the Himalayan delight that you get in the national park.
Muktinath Mandir
Muktinath Mandir
At an altitude of approx 3800 meters, Muktinath Mandir offers the scintillating presence of cosmic energy. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is also an important Shaktipeeth. The village of Muktinath is located in the foothills of Thorong La pass. Muktinath translates to the place of moksha (liberation). Due to the harsh weather conditions of Mustang, accessibility becomes a big issue during the winters and thus, summer months are the most suitable time to visit there.
Davis Falls
Davis Falls
A site of recreation and enjoyment, Davis Falls is a beautiful waterfall known to form underground tunnels after reaching the bottom. It is located in Pokhara and is one of the most visited cascades in Nepal. A number of Nepalese tourists come here for picnics by the waterfall site. Plunge into the pure water of this fall and refresh yourself. Along with the picturesque flowing water, the natural sceneries will win your heart and soul.
Janaki Mandir
Janaki Mandir
A center of religious and cultural tourism, Janaki Temple sits in the heart of Janakpur. The town is an incredible example of Nepal’s rich historical heritage. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Sita, the queen consort of Lord Rama. Sita is believed to have taken birth in Janakpur. Thousands of local and Indian tourists gather in the temple premise on the eve of Vivaha Panchami, the festival celebrating Ram-Sita wedding. Visiting the town of Janakpur and the temple is an awesome opportunity to get acquainted with the Mithila culture which is quite prevalent in the region.