Believe the hype—Nepal truly lives up to it. I’d heard glowing reviews from well-traveled friends, so when the opportunity came to visit, I didn’t hesitate. After experiencing it firsthand, I completely understand their enthusiasm. Nepal is a remarkable place. As someone who loves both mountains and Asia, I can’t believe it took me forty years to finally get there!
I absolutely fell in love with Nepal and would go back in a heartbeat. It offers everything I adore about Asia, but with a refreshingly relaxed, hassle-free vibe. The Nepalese people are incredibly warm and welcoming, and the weather in November couldn’t be better—sunny, pleasantly warm, and blissfully free of humidity. If you’re planning a trip of your own, here are my top recommendations for places to visit in Nepal:
Kathmandu and Thamel
My 12-day journey through Nepal began in its bustling capital, Kathmandu. I stayed in a charming hotel centrally located, just a 10-minute stroll from Thamel—the city’s lively tourist hub. Thamel is a true traveler’s haven, packed with outdoor gear shops, laid-back bars, and a variety of restaurants. It’s the perfect spot to prepare for your adventure or unwind afterward. Yes, it’s busy and a bit commercial, but it has a charm all its own. I loved wandering through the colorful streets, soaking up the atmosphere, and haggling for Christmas gifts before heading home.
Durbar Square
Kathmandu’s Durbar Square is a must-see and one of UNESCO’s eight World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley. This historic complex is a captivating mix of ancient temples, palaces, courtyards, and narrow streets, many of which date back to the 12th century. As the social, religious, and cultural heart of the city, Durbar Square offers a fascinating glimpse into Nepal’s royal past and vibrant present—you simply can’t visit Kathmandu without experiencing it.
Swayambhunath (The Monkey Temple)
Perched atop a hill overlooking Kathmandu, Swayambhunath—affectionately known as the Monkey Temple—is one of the city’s most iconic and sacred sites. The complex is filled with striking white stupas, colorful prayer flags, and intricate shrines, making it a significant place of worship for the Buddhist community. Beyond its spiritual importance, it offers sweeping panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. And yes—the resident monkeys add a playful charm to the experience, often amusing visitors as they scamper around the temple grounds.
Boudhanath
Located in central Kathmandu, the Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest—and most impressive—Buddhist stupas in the world. Towering and majestic, it’s adorned with vibrant prayer flags and crowned with the all-seeing eyes of Buddha, which gaze serenely over the people below. At ground level, the atmosphere is rich with spiritual energy. Locals and pilgrims circle the stupa in a rhythmic clockwise flow, spinning prayer wheels and offering incense, creating a sense of devotion that’s both humbling and unforgettable.
Bhaktapur
Just an hour’s drive from Kathmandu, Bhaktapur is a beautifully preserved town that feels like stepping back in time. We spent an afternoon exploring, but I easily could’ve lingered longer—the atmosphere is relaxed and full of character. The main square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, including intricately carved temples, palace courtyards, and stunning wood, metal, and stone artworks. It’s a place where history and craftsmanship come alive at every turn.
Day Hike from Panauti to Sanga
If you’d like a taste of Nepal’s trekking culture without committing to a full-blown Himalayan expedition, a day hike is a perfect option. We took on a gentle 3 to 4-hour hike from Panauti to Sanga—ideal for those seeking scenic views without the strain. Our minibus dropped us at the trailhead, and from there we followed a mix of well-marked local roads and hillside paths. The route offered sweeping views of terraced rice paddies, peaceful farmlands, and, in the distance, the breathtaking Himalayan peaks stretching across the valley.
Chitwan National Park
Before visiting, I always imagined Nepal as purely mountainous and chilly—so discovering its subtropical jungles was a wonderful surprise! Chitwan National Park is truly the crown jewel of Nepal’s protected areas, boasting a strong conservation legacy since its establishment in 1973 as the country’s first national park. It remains one of the last safe havens for endangered species like the Bengal tiger and the iconic one-horned rhino.
We went on an afternoon jeep safari through the park and were fortunate to spot four different rhinos, including two mothers with their adorable calves. Beyond rhinos, we also encountered deer, monkeys, gharials (thin-nosed crocodiles), peacocks, and a dazzling array of colorful birds. While we didn’t see any tigers—known for their elusive nature—the whole experience was unforgettable.
For our final hour, we switched to a small boat and gently drifted down the river as the sun began to set—an absolutely magical way to end the day. Our local guides were incredibly knowledgeable, happily answering all our questions about the park’s unique environment and diverse wildlife, which made the experience even richer.
Pokhara
Pokhara is a truly charming place—somewhere I could have easily spent much more time. It reminded me of Queenstown in New Zealand, and I’m already dreaming of returning. Nestled on the expansive Phewa Lake and framed by stunning mountain views, the town is a hub for adventure lovers. Whether it’s mountain biking around the lake, day treks, kayaking, paragliding, or even heli-hiking, there’s no shortage of activities to choose from.
Pokhara has a well-established tourist center bustling with restaurants, bars, and shops catering to every budget—from simple eateries to upscale dining. Accommodation ranges widely too, from cozy mid-range hotels to luxurious resorts complete with pools.
Paragliding in Pokhara
On my first day, I was whisked up to the hillside overlooking the city for my very first paragliding experience. Running off a cliff while harnessed in was exhilarating, but the whole process went smoothly. Moments later, we caught a thermal lift that soared us over the town. The views were breathtaking—Pokhara, the lake below, and the Himalayan range stretching across the horizon. The flight lasted about 40 minutes before we landed on a strip next to the lake. Definitely not for anyone with a fear of heights, but utterly unforgettable.
Helicopter Trip to Annapurna Base Camp
The helicopter ride to Annapurna Base Camp was an absolute highlight of my trip—a moment that put a huge smile on my face. It was my first time in a helicopter, and while the scenic flight itself was incredible, the arrival at base camp at dawn was truly unforgettable. We left before sunrise, and the early start was well worth it.
Annapurna Base Camp sits nestled in the Himalayas, and as the morning sun peeked over the peaks, the combination of indigo skies, snow-capped mountains, and fluttering prayer flags created a breathtaking scene that left me speechless. The base camp consists of simple huts providing basic lodging and meals for trekkers making the long journey up from Pokhara. For me, the helicopter was a far easier—and no less magical—way to get there.
Gentle Adventures in Pokhara
If you’re after something more relaxed, Pokhara offers gentle options too, such as an hour-long walk to catch the sunrise from the World Peace Pagoda or Sarangkot hill. When it was time to leave, we flew back to Kathmandu on the whimsically named Yeti Airlines. Though a small propeller plane, I found the flight comfortable with stunning Himalayan views all the way.
Homestays
Nepal has some fantastic homestays that offer an authentic glimpse into local life. During my trip, I stayed at two, both warm and memorable experiences. Homestays provide an unfiltered connection to the community that leaves a lasting impression—I highly recommend them.
My first homestay was in Panauti, a short drive from Kathmandu Valley and home to the indigenous Newar people. The community has developed a non-profit homestay project focused on women’s empowerment, which is now a vital income source for the town. The local women greeted us in full ceremonial dress with flower garlands, singing, and drumming. I stayed in the spare room of my host’s home, spending the afternoon watching the children play and sing—reminding me how universal childhood truly is.
My second homestay was with the Tharu community in Barauli, near Chitwan. It was a magical place with a private cottage tucked among the village homes—clean, simple, and comfortable. Meals were shared in the central village hall, where we also enjoyed sundowners in the evenings. One afternoon, we rented bikes and cycled gently around the village, chased by laughing local children. It was a nostalgic reminder of earlier times when tourists were a rare sight.
Evenings brought music and dancing, with the famous Tharu women’s ‘stick dance’ as the highlight. As the night reached its peak, we were joyfully pulled into the final dance, sharing the moment with the villagers.
Buddhist Monastery Stay
One night, I had the privilege of staying at the Neydo Tashi Choeling Monastery—an ideal place to deepen my understanding of Buddhism. Around 200 monks live nearby, and we joined them for morning prayers at 5 a.m. The chanting was far louder and more powerful than I expected, filling the space with a profound energy.
Traveling in a Small Group
Our small group tour leader was exceptional—his deep local knowledge and relaxed style made exploring Nepal even more rewarding. He answered all our questions with enthusiasm and helped us appreciate the unique details that make each destination special. Traveling with a knowledgeable guide reminded me why small group tours are such a fantastic way to discover the world. You can visit these places independently, but with a guide, your cultural understanding and overall experience increase tenfold.
Inspired to Plan Your Own Nepal Adventure?
You can read more about Jim’s journey, call us at 01273 917637, or email us to start planning your own Nepal trip. Whether you’re interested in a small group tour or a private, tailor-made adventure, we’re here to help make your dream trip a reality.
