Nepal is renowned among hikers worldwide, thanks to its highest mountain, Everest. I recently had the chance to visit Nepal, but not as a hiker. I opted for a sightseeing trip, exploring the cities of Pokhara and Kathmandu, and indulging in the local cuisine. Nepal is undoubtedly worth revisiting because there are many places to explore, such as Lukla, etc. The best time to visit Nepal is in November. In my future visit, I would like to travel to Lukla and try a helicopter tour for Everest or Annapurna.
Table of Contents:
1. Nepal overview
Nepal is often affectionately referred to as the “Roof of the World” due to its stunning Himalayan mountain range, including the iconic Mount Everest. This nickname reflects Nepal’s lofty geography and its status as home to some of the world’s highest peaks.
Country: Nepal
- Continent: Asia
- Capital: Kathmandu
- Largest City: Kathmandu
- Population: Approximately 31 million (as of 2023)1
- Major Religions: Hinduism, Buddhism
- Official Language: Nepali
- Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
- Dialing Code: +977
- National Airline: Nepal Airlines
- Plug Type: Type C, D
- SIM Card: Nepal Telecom, Ncell
- Taxi App: Pathao, Tootle
2. Itineraries
2.1 Kathmandu
D1: Exploring Kathmandu’s Cultural Heritage
- Morning: Kathmandu Durbar Square
- Start your day at the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the ancient architecture, including the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Kumari Ghar (Living Goddess Residence), and numerous temples.
- Late Morning: Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)
- Head to Swayambhunath, perched atop a hill west of Kathmandu. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and valley. The stupa is adorned with prayer flags and has a serene atmosphere. Keep an eye out for the mischievous monkeys that inhabit the area.
- Lunch: Traditional Newari Cuisine
- Sample authentic Newari cuisine at a local restaurant. Try momo (dumplings), bara (fried lentil patties), and other traditional delights.
- Afternoon: Pashupatinath Temple
- Visit Pashupatinath, one of the holiest Hindu temples. Observe religious rituals on the banks of the Bagmati River. The temple complex is known for its unique architecture and spiritual significance.
- Evening: Boudhanath Stupa
- Conclude your day at Boudhanath, one of the largest stupas in Nepal. Circumambulate the stupa while observing devotees and monks. The area is rich in Tibetan culture, with monasteries and shops selling Tibetan artifacts.
- Dinner: Thamel
- Head to Thamel, Kathmandu’s bustling neighborhood. Enjoy a diverse range of international and local cuisines. The area comes alive in the evening with vibrant lights, music, and a lively atmosphere.
D2: Nature and History in the Outskirts
- Morning: Bhaktapur Durbar Square
- Begin your day in Bhaktapur, another ancient city in the Kathmandu Valley. Explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square, known for its medieval architecture, palaces, and courtyards. Don’t miss the intricately carved Peacock Window.
- Late Morning: Changunarayan Temple
- Visit Changunarayan, an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is renowned for its historical and artistic significance, with intricate wood carvings and stone inscriptions.
- Lunch: Bhaktapur’s Newari Delicacies
- Enjoy lunch in Bhaktapur and savor more Newari specialties. The city is known for its unique culinary offerings, so indulge in the local flavors.
- Afternoon: Patan Durbar Square
- Head to Patan, the third ancient city in the valley. Explore Patan Durbar Square, a hub of traditional Newari architecture. Highlights include the Krishna Temple, Hiranya Varna Mahavihar, and the Patan Museum.
- Evening: Garden of Dreams
- Conclude your two-day itinerary at the Garden of Dreams in Thamel. This historical garden offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful landscaping, fountains, and pavilions. Relax and reflect on your cultural journey through Kathmandu.
- Dinner: Cultural Dinner Show
- Experience a cultural dinner show featuring traditional music and dance. Many venues in Kathmandu offer this immersive cultural experience, providing a perfect finale to your exploration of the city.
2.2 Pokhara
D1: Lakeside Charms and Natural Wonders
- Morning: Lakeside Stroll
Begin your day with a leisurely walk along Phewa Lake, soaking in the charm of Lakeside’s bustling atmosphere. - Late Morning: Devi’s Fall
Explore the mesmerizing Devi’s Fall, where a waterfall disappears into an underground tunnel, surrounded by intriguing legends. - Lunch: Old Pokhara Delights
Immerse yourself in the local culture with a traditional Nepali meal in Old Pokhara, away from the tourist buzz. - Afternoon: Gupteshwor Cave Adventure
Discover the sacred Gupteshwor Cave, a cultural gem featuring an underground waterfall and stunning stalactite formations. - Evening: International Mountain Museum
Conclude your day with a visit to the International Mountain Museum, delving into the cultural and mountaineering history of the region.
D2: Sunrise Serenity and Cultural Exploration
- Morning: Sarangkot Sunrise
Witness the breathtaking sunrise at Sarangkot, offering panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. - Late Morning: Bindhyabasini Temple Tranquility
Visit Bindhyabasini Temple, a cultural haven dedicated to the Hindu goddess Bhagwati, with awe-inspiring city and mountain views. - Lunch: Lakeside Views Dining
Enjoy a lakeside lunch with a mix of international and local cuisine, complemented by serene lake views. - Afternoon: Seti River Gorge Exploration
Explore the Seti River Gorge, a natural wonder with turbulent waters, providing a unique perspective of Pokhara. - Evening: Lakeside Bazaar Adventure
Stroll through Lakeside Bazaar, a vibrant market offering handicrafts and souvenirs, immersing yourself in local market culture. - Dinner: Lakeside Dining Delights
Conclude your Pokhara adventure with a lakeside dinner, savoring local specialties or international cuisine while reflecting on the day’s experiences.
Footnote:
- https://www.worldometers.info/world-population/nepal-population/ ↩︎