Nepal has much to offer, and these activities could keep you busy for months. From trekking to safaris to adventure sports and meditation retreats, you will surely never be bored. However, with so many things to do, it is difficult for many to plan their trips.
Here, we have found seven activities that are enjoyed by many, and you should consider taking part in them while visiting Nepal.
Trekking
The first thing that comes to most people’s minds when it comes to Nepal is trekking. With the Himalayas and foothills taking up much of the country, there are endless hikes and multi-day treks for you to enjoy.
From Everest Base Camp to various treks in the Annapurna Region and more, trekking in Nepal is suitable for everyone. If you are not interested or able to complete some of the more challenging treks, there are many options for day hikes and shorter adventures that will allow you to get up close and personal with the flora, fauna, and mountains of Nepal.
Mountain Flight
One of the main attractions in Nepal is Mount Everest. However, some people are unable to take the time to trek into the Himalayas to see this majestic peak. Luckily, several airlines offer mountain flights, which will allow you to get up close and personal with the tallest mountain in the world. During this one-hour flight, you will be treated to stunning views of the entire Everest Region, including other mountains such as Cho-Oyu, Shisha Pangma, and Lhotse. Every passenger is guaranteed a window seat to ensure you have a great view. Lastly, you will also enjoy champagne and receive a personalized certificate commemorating this incredible and memorable flight.
Safari
Nepal has 14 national parks and wildlife reserves, most of which consist of dense tropical jungles. Here you will find diverse wildlife and exotic birds. There are many ways to enjoy this adventure, from driving a four-wheeler, canoeing, or walking. There are all kinds of animals to enjoy, from deer, royal Bengal tigers, crocodiles, wild buffalo, monkeys, elephants, and even one-horned rhinos. The most popular destinations for such safaris are Chitwan National Park and Bardia National Park. Daily flights are available to both locations, in addition to busses and many hotels. Both parks are in the Terai region of Nepal, which is flat and also means you will be exposed to different ethnic groups than will be found in the mountains and hills.
Adventure Sports
With incredible mountains and hills, rushing glacial rivers, and cascading waterfalls, the Nepali landscape is not only beautiful but perfect for those looking for adventure. The cool rivers are perfect for whitewater rafting and kayaking. If you enjoy watersports, the excitement doesn’t end here. There are abundant waterfalls in Nepal that are perfect for canyoning. Climbing over boulders and sliding down waterfalls into shallow pools is the perfect way to experience the hills and forests in Nepal. Furthermore, the hills are perfect for paragliding. You will soar past villages, monasteries, lakes, emerald jungles, and temples while flying amongst eagles, Himalayan griffins, and kites. Bungee jumping is another popular way to get your heart rate up, free-falling in ravines in the foothills of the Himalayas. There are also opportunities for mountain biking, heli-skiing, and ziplining, meaning your opportunities for adventure are endless.
Try Local Cuisine
Nepal has incredibly diverse food, varying across ethnic groups. While everyone eats dal bhat (rice and lentils) each day, there are other incredible foods that you should also try. Momo is one of the most popular snacks and can be found in nearly every restaurant and on every street corner in Kathmandu. Other street foods that are a must try include pani puri and chatpate, just be sure to check that they use bottled water and the food is prepared in sanitary conditions. Additionally, when in Kathmandu, be sure to try Newari food, which is made by the ethnic group originally from Kathmandu. This included delicious items such as bara, chattamari, and yomari.
Meditation and Yoga Retreats
There are many meditation and yoga retreats available throughout Nepal. From treks combined with mindful activities to Vipassana, the silent meditation, there is truly an option for everyone. Practicing yoga and meditation amongst the highest peaks in the world in beautiful mountain villages will be one of the most memorable experiences. There is something special about Nepal, especially as you spend time in the Himalayas. These ancient mountains are frequently viewed as a spiritual place where one can connect with their higher self.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
There are four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nepal, including the Kathmandu Valley, Lumbini, Chitwan, and Sagarmatha National Park. Within Kathmandu, there are many temples to visit, including Buddhist stupas such as Swayambhunath and Boudhanath and Hindu temples, Changu Narayan Temple, Pashupatinath, and more. Additionally, the three Durbar squares, Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur, are all filled with Nepali history. Lumbini is said to be Lord Buddha’s birthplace and one of the country’s holiest places. If you are looking for natural beauty, be sure to check out Chitwan to see some of the most diverse wildlife and Sagarmatha for the incredible mountain landscapes near Mount Everest.
Conclusion
While many people often think of Nepal for trekking, there is much more to this small nation. It is worth the trip for the culture, cuisine, landscapes, and history, and there is the added bonus of incredible adventure sports to keep your heart racing. There is something for everyone in Nepal, no matter your age or interests.
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