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20 Best Reasons to Visit Nepal Before You Die!

Reasons to visit Nepal once in a life

Nepal is a country of colors and contrasts. It is a hidden Shangri-la of nature, culture, and adventures. There is perhaps no other country on Earth that is home to such contrast as Nepal is. It might be a small country in the world, sandwiched between two giants India and China, but it has a lot of flavors you cannot even imagine. There are plenty of reasons to visit Nepal either it is the beautiful Himalayas, vibrant and colorful cultures and festivals, delicious cuisines, or warm hospitality from the friendliest people on the earth.

There are unlimited reasons why you should visit Nepal but here are some top reasons why you should add Nepal to your travel bucket list :

1. Beautiful Himalayas & Home to World’s Highest Mountain

Mt. Everest ( PC: glorioushimalayas)

Nepal is known for its beautiful Himalaya, the highest and magnificent mountain range in the world. It is home to World’s highest mountain, Mt.everest, and the other 8 highest mountains in the world.  To name a few of them they are Mt. Kanchanjunga, Mt Lhotse, Mt Manaslu, Mt Cho Oyu, Mt Dhaulagiri, Mt Annapurna, etc. These Himalayas are one of the top reasons to visit Nepal as there are more than 1310 mountains which are over 5500 m  of which Nepal has opened 326 peaks for climbing. Climbing Mt. Everest is the ultimate glory for humans. Many people come to Nepal to climb Mt. Everest to set the record of reaching the highest peak of the World. Other than that, there are mountain flights or trek to Everest Base Camp to see the roof of the world. You do not even need to go to the Himalayas to enjoy the beautiful view of the mountains. These mountains are easily visible from Kathmandu and Pokhara valley. On a fine and clear day, You can even see Mt. Everest from Kathmandu. These beautiful mountains are an asset of Nepal and add beauty to Nepal. The tall snowcapped mountains add beauty to Nepal’s landscape. If you want to bless your eyes with beautiful mountains, you should definitely visit Nepal.

2. UNESCO Heritage Sites

Patan Durbar Square (Photo credit: Ayen Shakya)

Nepal is home to ten UNESCO heritage sites with two natural heritage sites and eight cultural heritage sites. Sagarmatha National Park and Chitwan National Park are listed as UNESCO Natural World Heritage Sites whereas Lumbini, Pashupatinath, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, and Changunarayan Temple is listed as UNESCO Cultural World Heritages. The best part of visiting Nepal is that you can visit seven UNESCO World Heritages in a day! Seven of the UNESCO Cultural World Heritages except for Lumbini are situated in Kathmandu Valley.

3. Gastronome’s Heaven

Photo credit: Ecoholidaysnepal

Nepal has a lot of mouth-watering cuisines and dishes. Due to its cultural diversity, you can encounter different flavors of food. While it is true that Nepalese cuisine is highly influenced by the cuisines of India and China but it has its own flavor to it which makes it tastier. If you are a foodie, Nepal has a lot to offer to satisfy your taste buds. The common meal in Nepal is Dal Bhat which is a staple food. The unofficial National food of Nepal, Momo is the most popular and tasty food of Nepal. It is Nepalese dumplings with different fillings and has different variations to it. Other than that, there are different local foods of different ethnicities living in Nepal. Among them, Newari cuisine is a popular and loved cuisine. You definitely should try Newari food especially the Samay Baji set, Woh, Chatamari, Choyela, Yomari, and many more. You can also find Indo-Nepali food and Tibetian foods with the Nepali twist. There is a lot of variety of foods at every nook and corner of the country. From fine dining to street food, you can enjoy the food

4. Birthplace of Buddha

Lumbini, Birthplace of Lord Buddha (Photo Credit: RisingNepal )

Nepal is the birthplace of the Lord of Buddha who is known as the Light of Asia. Lord Buddha was born in Lumbini, Nepal. Lumbini is a sacred and holy pilgrimage site for Buddhist people from all around the world. There stands a famous stone pillar erected by Indian Emperor Ashoka known as Ashok Atambha that commemorate Ashoka’s visit to the Birthplace of Lord Buddha. Mayadevi Temple and Puskarini Pond are famous for their religious importance. Lumbini is a hub for all Buddhist people from around the globe. Many countries such as China, Myanmar, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, India, Thailand, France, and Germany have erected their vihar and monasteries in Lumbini.

5. Abundance of Floras & Faunas

One-horned Rhino ( PC: Kathmandu Tribune)

With the dramatic elevation difference of 60m from sea level in terai to 8848 m in mountains, Nepal is second in such elevation contrast after China. This has blessed Nepal with a large diversity of floras and faunas. Nepal is home to different species of flowers, birds, animals, reptiles, and medicinal herbs. There are over 30 species of large wild animals, 180 species of mammals, and over 800 species of birds, or 8% of the world in total. It is home to endangered and rare wildlife species such as the Bengal tiger, One-horned rhino, Gharial crocodile, snow leopard, and red panda. You can do wildlife safari in different national parks and wildlife reserves in Nepal for bird watching and jungle safari.

6. The Best in Hospitality

Prince Harry in Nepal, PC: Andrew Parsons

Nepal might be the highest place on the earth but Nepalese people are the most down-to-earth people. Nepalese are friendliest and kindest and would give you the best hospitality when you visit Nepal. Well, the Nepalese people are also one of the reasons why you should visit Nepal. The diverse Nepalese welcomes the guest with a warm heart and the biggest smiles. Nepalese people treat you like their own family no matter where you come from. They are always there to help you out. Nepalese believe that guests are gods so they will try their best to serve you the best hospitality in the world.

7. Paradise For Adrenaline Junkies

PC: Sunrise paragliding

Nepal is a paradise for Adrenaline Junkies. If you love adventures, then you must visit Nepal. Nepal has different adventure sports such as rafting, bungee jumping, zip line, mountaineering, mountain bikes, cliff swing, paragliding, and hot air balloons. Paragliding in Pokhara is listed as the second most amazing paragliding destination in the world. Not to mention climbing Mt.Everest is the most adventurous and risky. Kusma Bunjee jump is World’s second-highest bungee jumping. Nepal is listed as one of the best destinations for white water rafting. You can try Rafting in Bhote Koshi river, Trishuli River, Kaligandaki river for a thrilling experience. The rivers are long, clean, and surrounded by beautiful hills and mountains.

8. Rich in Art & Architecture

Nyatapola Temple ( PC: Sapana Holidays)

Nepal is an open museum. The beautiful wooden carved temples, stone-carved sculptures of god, stone-carved temples make Nepal an open museum. The temples and buildings of Nepal have been built in a unique style that makes them peculiar and precious. Nepalese art and architecture are dominated by Hindu and Buddhist philosophy. The thanka painting, Mandala, Sculptures, Wooden carving, stone works reflect the uniqueness of Nepalese art. Nepal’s architecture would make you acknowledge the hard work and talent of Nepalese people. The details and amount of hard work they might have put up in those ancient time periods for us to look at such a masterpiece. The Krishna Mandir of Patan is a stone carved beautiful temple made with a single stone, The Kashtamandap of Kathmandu is made up of single wood, The 55 window palace of Bhaktapur with beautiful wooden crafted windows, the 5 story Nyatapola Temple of Bhaktapur, Boudhanath and Swayambhunath stupa of Kathmandu are living masterpiece of Nepalese architecture.

9. Rich in Festivals & Culture

Cultural dance ( PC: Nepal Sanctuary Trek)

Nepal is a multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, and multi-cultural country. The cultural contrast comparative to its geographical size is astonishing and this has blessed Nepal with different colorful festivals and cultures. The main festival of Nepal is Dashain and Tihar which is celebrated by all Nepalese despite different ethnicity and cultural background. Other festivals include Gai Jatra, Ghode Jatra, Bisket Jatra, Holi, Chhath, Indra Jatra, Eid, Lhosar, Rato and Seto Machendranath, and so on. Each community has its own distinct festivals and culture. Nepal is the only country where people share their road with God and God lives in every corner of the country. Nepal worships the living goddess Kumari.

A girl dressed as Kumari in Kumari Puja (PC: newscn.com)

There are different cultural dances, musical instruments, folk songs and dances, and rituals. The Newari community has the culture to marry the girl thrice in their lifetime. The girl is married to a fruit named bel and sun before marrying off to a guy such that she would never be a widow in her life. The boys also have bratabanda. The Lakhey dance, Ghingtang ghisi dance, Skeleton dances, Tharu dance are cultural dances that are entertaining to watch. Nepal has different costumes as the costumes differ with ethnicity. Nepal is a living museum and there is always something happening as it is rich in festivals and culture. Thus, the culture and the festivals of Nepal are the best reasons to visit Nepal.

10. Pristine Lakes & Rivers

High up in the mountains are scores of spectacular lakes and rivers formed by melting glaciers. Given the fact that Nepal is a landlocked country and has no access to seas and beaches, The rivers and lakes of Nepal fill up that gap for the sea and beaches.

Kajin Sara Lake ( PC: Timestravel)

The highest lake in the world, Kajin Sara Lake, is located in Nepal. The lake was recently discovered. The previous holder was Tilicho Lake of Nepal. There are many lakes in Nepal such as Rara Lake, Phoksundo Lake, Tilicho Lake, Gosaikunda Lake, Phewa Lake, Begnas Lake, Rupa Lake, Gokyo lake, and so on. The beautiful lakes with crystal clear water and beautiful snowcapped mountains reflected on them presents a picture of idyllic serenity.

Dudh Koshi River (PC: Viator)

Nepal is renowned for its stunning mountain views, Nepal’s rivers can take you closer to this nation’s sanctity and beauty. Located in breathtaking environments, they not only deliver jaw-dropping views but also serve as the best places for fun water sports such as rafting, kayaking, bungee jumping, and much more. Or you can just sit down and enjoy harmony and tranquility. Rivers have healing power and the sound of fast-flowing rivers refreshes you. The rivers are crystal clear, pure, and tasty. Yeah! You must try drinking Himalayan water from the melted glacier, it tastes just too good.

11. Paradise For Trekkers

Trekking in Himalayas (PC: NTB)

Nepal is known for its diverse trekking experience that you would not find elsewhere in the world. The trekking in the mountains will make you feel refreshed and magical as if you are in a different world. With a calm and peaceful environment, greenery, clear blue sky, beautiful mountains and hills, and the river flowing melodiously, Nepal is a paradise for trekkers. The famous trekking regions for trekkers include Khumbu valley or Everest base camp, Annapurna region, and Langtang. Trekking in Nepal would not only let you dwell in nature but also to learn about the culture of people. You can experience geo-diversity, biodiversity, and cultural diversity. You can learn so much and gain so much experience and memories with each step you take.


📌 Also Read –Why Trekking In Nepal Deserves To Be On Your Bucket List


12. Homestay

Homestay in Nepal ( PC: Tripadvisor)

Homestay in Nepal will let you experience the local lifestyle and understand the culture of Nepalese. It is a wonderful experience as you get to live others’ life. Nepalese people are heartwarming people and they would welcome you to stay in your house, provide you food and make you feel you are at home. You get a new family and home far from home. While on trek and tours, you get the option to either chose a hotel or a homestay. Many tourists chose homestay as it helps them to know the culture well and to taste the authentic lifestyle of the local people. The homestay will add beautiful memories to your life as it lets you live like the locals. It is a beautiful experience and one of the best reasons to visit Nepal.

13. Shopaholic Destinations

Thamel Street ( PC: Altitude Himalaya)

Shopping is also the best reason to visit Nepal. There are so many handicrafts, souvenirs, jewelry, woolen products, and embroidery gifts that you can take back home. There are so many aesthetic things to buy in Nepal. The tourist destinations are filled with tourist shops where you can buy gifts and souvenirs. There are beautiful paintings and arts, statues, and sculptures that you can buy from Nepal. The popular buy in Nepal would be the fake Northface jacket easily available in the street markets and cheap Adidas shoes. Tourists are also fond of Nepali dress, Dhaka topi, and Nepali T-shirt prints that are easily available in the market. Nepal’s silk pashmina is famous all over the world and you can buy the Pashmina shawl and other goods made from the wool of Himalayan yak. Nepal is also famous to buy different herbal teas. Thamel and Pokhara’s lakeside are famous tourist markets in Nepal.

14. Pilgrimage Sites

Pashupatinath Temple PC: Bijay Chaurasia

Nepal is a holy place for the two oldest religions in the world. It is the birthplace of lord buddha who founded Buddhism and Sita who was married to Lord Rama, an important god in Hinduism. Thus, Nepal has many holy pilgrimage sites for both Hindu and Buddhist religious groups. Lumbini being the holy pilgrimage site is visited by Buddhist people from all over the world. Pashupatinath Temple is visited by Hindus from all over the world. Other pilgrimage sites include Manakamana temple, Muktinath Temple, Gosainkunda Lake, Halesi Mahadev, Janakpurdham, Pathebhara temple, and so on. Nepal has built the tallest shiva statue which is the second tallest Hindu deity statue in the world.

15. Affordable & Hassel Free Visa

PC: Business line

Nepal is a budget-friendly travel destination. The accommodation, food, and transportation in Nepal are affordable .1 USD converts to 117.49 Nepali rupees. 1 USD can buy you 1 plate of momo, you can get your tummy full with just 1 USD. There are budget-friendly hotels and transportation is pretty affordable too. In 2019, the World economic forum named Nepal as one of the cheapest and budget-friendly travel destinations. The average daily expenses for tourist in Nepal is USD 15.84 only. Also, probably another reason to visit Nepal is the convenience of getting a Visa. You can issue your Visa easily.

16. Historical Significance

Changu Narayan Temple ( PC: Vedicfeed)

Nepal was a few of the countries in the world that was not colonized by the British. Nepal is also the oldest country in South Asia. The temples and monuments in Nepal are more than 1000 years old. Changunarayan Temple of Bhaktapur is one of the oldest temples of Nepal. The historical pillar with the stone-carved inscription was erected in  464 A.D.Swayambhunath, Boudhanath and Pashupatinath are also the oldest temple of Nepal that had their existence for thousands of years. Nepal has a proud history and has preserved it very well. If you love history, you should definitely visit Nepal. There are a lot of museums in Nepal through which you can rewind your time and know about the history of Nepal.

17. Peace & Serenity

PC: Nepal Mangolian

Nepal is a country of peace and serenity. You can find your inner peace by hiking into the woods, boating in the lake, trekking to the Himalayas, beautiful waterfalls, and temple hopping. Most of the Nepalese temples are located at height thus offering the best view from the top. The temples are located near to nature in quiet places. Nepal is the place to go if you want to get away from the boring hectic works and to find inner peace and to spend time in peace and serenity. Nepal is the perfect escape from a boring routine and the perfect healing place for your soul.


📌 Also Read –How Can Nepal Tour Help Blossom Your Soul 


18. Beautiful Sunrise & Sunsets

Sunrise from Manungkot ( PC: Vishal Shrestha)

What can be better than watching beautiful sunrise and sunset from the top of the world, That’s euphoria. Nepal probably has one of the best sunrise and sunsets in the world. The magnificent view of the sun striking the beautiful snowcapped mountains and making them shine in golden color makes you feel like you are in heaven. There are different viewpoints in Nepal from where you can watch beautiful sunrise and sunsets. The popular viewpoints are Nagarkot, Kalinchowk, Manungkot, Sarangkot, Ghandruk, Poon hill, etc. Watching the beautiful sunrise and sunsets is the best reason to visit Nepal.

19. Volunteering Opportunities

PC: Projects abroad

Nepal is a developing country. There are many volunteering opportunities in Nepal where you can contribute to uplift the living standard of people in rural areas. Many NGOs operate in Nepal with projects to help out the needy ones. The project focus on woman empowerment, poverty eradication, literacy programs, health programs, skill development programs, and so on. You can give hand to help out the community and nation as a whole. Nepal is the place where you can travel with a cause. But what will you gain? You will be welcomed with the big smiles of the Nepalese people, you will meet new people who will welcome you as a part of their family and give you the best memories you can cherish for the rest of your lives.

20. It is safe

PC: andbeyond

Nepal is one of the safest travel destinations in the World. The research conducted by the Institute for Economics and Peace ranked Nepal second safest and peaceful nation in South Asia after Bhutan. Nepal is safe for traveling as Nepalese people are the friendliest people you would meet. They believe in Atithi Devo Bhawo i.e Guests are like god. So, they try to ensure you have no difficulty during the stay. If you are a solo traveler and worrying if Nepal is safe for solo travelers, I can ensure you that it is completely safe.


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