Nepal a country in Indian subcontinent with a history of its own which dates back to ages. Indian epics, Buddhist and Jain scriptures shows Nepal as a birthplace of Sakyamuni. For many reasons, Nepal’s history has influence in histories of China & India. From ages, Nepal has attracted people leading to a diverse culture.

• Today, mountaineers, forest explorers, infinite spiritual seekers as well as history admirers wander around Nepal. If you are thinking a Nepal trip, here are 9 destinations to cover. Just dig into it-

Kathmandu

Capital city of Kathmandu has set the tone of your Nepal trip. It gives a glimpse inside cultures of Nepal. Many houses, busy streets, scent of incenses gives a lifetime experience that no other city can. Shrines, temples, & statues are the characteristics of Kathmandu.

• Hindu pilgrims flock here to worship at Pashupatinath. along the Baramati river banks. Kathmandu also has Buddhist shrines like Boudhanath & Swayambhunath. Trekkers have the valley of Kathmandu as a base for expedition. Kathmandu is an excellent place to buy your trekking gear.

Annapurna Circuit

Nepal is trekker’s paradise for a reason. A trekking option is Annapurna Circuit, a challenging site for explorers. Here, the whole region has dense forests, green valleys with waterfalls. Almost here It takes 21 days to complete trekking.

• Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is a great option on this circuit. Sunrise at Poon hill along with view of Dhaulagiri, Singa Chuli, Annapurna & Machapuchare are totally incomparable, that no hiker would like to miss. A 5 day hike to get at Annapurna Sanctuary along with the Muktinath trail that takes 7 days to complete.

Bhaktapur

One of the three royal cities in Nepal. This city has a predominantly Hindu population and is filled with ancient Hindu temples. The Bhaktapur Darbur Square is a main attraction. This area has Taumadhi Square, Darbur Square, Dattatreya Square and Pottery Square.

• The Darbur Square complex boasts of its rich architecture through ancient age old temples & palaces. Most of them date back to the 17 th and 18 th century. If you are in Bhaktapur, definitely spend your time in shopping masks, handicrafts, & souvenirs.

Lumbini

Lumbini, birthplace of Sakyamuni, has monasteries & lakes. Maya Devi Temple, an ancient place of worship is at Sakyamuni’s birth spot. Lake Pushkarini & a nearby park offers quiet time. Royal Thai Monastery, Myanmar Royal Temple & Sri Lankan Monastery are attractions here. World Peace Pagoda is significant as it reflects four stages of Gautama’s life. The Lumbini Garden is now transformed in Lumbini Crane Sanctuary, where ruins of Gautama’s Palace, or Tilaurakot exists.

Langtang National Park

Situated in the Langtang region, and has some hiking trails, this park also has Gosaikunda Lake. Hike take you through rhododendron forests and old monasteries. Langtang has Sherpas and you can get a glimpse in their life while exploring this region. The hillside villages have guesthouses & lodges for rest. Experience camping in campsites of Langtang or Helambu trek is a great option.

Dharan

Nestles in the foothills of the Mahabharata ranges, Dharan is a gateway for Mahabharata hills. Here the climate & posh bungalows with significant Hindu pilgrim areas make this one of the reasons to explore Dharan. Here the Dantakali Temple is considered a Shaktipeetha where teeth of Sati has fallen. Buddhasubba Temple, a Buddhist temple is here. Dharan is a picnic spot with an exotic golf course. In Dharan, people can definitely choose rafting in Tamor River until to Koshi River. Bhanu Chowk has vibrant shopping outlets.

Mt. Everest

Nepal travel is incomplete without going to the mighty Mt. Everest. The Everest region attracts enthusiasts for trekking, wildlife, religion and spiritual thirst, almost every year. The whole valley is really deep, with glaciers. Every alpine enthusiast, trek to the Mt. Everest’s Base Camp. Watch rare species like black bear, snow leopards, musk deer, red panda, and wolves in this region.

Nuwakot

Nuwakot, the nine forts, is a hilltop village and one of the unique spots in Nepal. Nuwakot Durbar is a main attraction on Nuwakot. The Durbar complex has historical & cultural significance, a trade gate is there that facilitated exchanges between India and Tibet.

Nuwakot is on a day drive from Kathmandu. It has boutique hotels and homestay. Stay in Trishuli Bazar & hike until palace gates. This vacation is a must, with family and friends.

The time for exploring Nepal is from October till December when the sky remains clear and experience some stunning views of the mountain ranges. For solitude and wonderful treks, you can come in January or February. There will be cold in this time. Indians are exempted from visas to enter Nepal. A walking Nepalese food trip at Kathmandu is a experience. For taking a flight from India, you have to show a valid passport/ ID at immigration.