One of our favourite destinations by far is Nepal. It’s one of those destinations we both still talk about a lot when we are reminiscing about our travels. We are really looking forward to go back to Nepal in the (hopefully near) future and explore more of this country. In Nepal there is so much to see and explore. If you love nature, adventure and budget travel, Nepal is the place for you. There are so many reasons we can come up with why someone should include Nepal on their bucket list. In this article we list 10 reasons why you should visit Nepal.
10 Reasons to visit Nepal
1. The beautiful mountains of Nepal
The tallest mountains in the world are located in Nepal. Just a few impressive mountains located in Nepal are Mount Everest (8848 meter), Mount Kanchenjunga (8586 meter) and Annapurna (8071 meter). On Mount Everest you can quite literally be on top of the world.
Nepal is a great place to go on a hike or a trek. Every year countless of tourist embark on the journey of their lifetime in Nepal. Read this article if you’re planning to do a trek in Nepal too! There are countless of different trails to choose from. But even for those that aren’t going on a trek or hike, it’s also amazing to admire the mountains from a distance.
2. The rest of the landscape in Nepal is pretty impressive too
Besides all those impressive high mountains, Nepal is home to gorgeous lakes, rivers, glaciers and jungles. There is really something for every nature addict. Next to all those amazing treks in the mountains, you can also go on jungle treks or smaller hikes. Really, Nepal is a country with so many hiking possibilities.
We especially loved the pristine lakes in Nepal, such as Rara Lake. Rara Lake is actually located on a mountain and it’s quite a journey to get there, but the landscape is amazing. Another lovely lake is Phewa Lake in Pokhara, which is very easy to reach.
3. The friendly Nepalese people
It’s not a lie that the people in Nepal are remarkably friendly. First I didn’t really realise it as much, as I was always wondering if they maybe wanted something from me (yes, I’m paranoid). But during the second time in this country, and after travelling to other countries, I realised how friendly the local people in Nepal actually are. Most local people we have met are so giving and kind! We always felt safe and in the right hands when we were in Nepal.
There have been quite some difficult times in Nepal, such as the 2015 earthquake which killed nearly 9000 people. But most Nepalese people we spoke never lost hope. They have lost their homes, family members and friends, but they still look to the future and are building new homes and new futures.
We have never seen happier people than the local people we met in Nepal. They never complained, no matter how often the power goes off or how hard they work each day. They will always put you, their guest, first.
4. The amazing wildlife in Nepal
Nepal is a great place to encounter wildlife. It’s possible to tick off four of the “Big Five” in Nepal: there are rhinos, elephants, leopards and buffalos. Also, it’s instead of lions, you can spot tigers. For instance at Chitwan National Park or Bardia National Park you can encounter these animals. Chitwan National Park is the most popular national park in Nepal, as it’s quite accessible and there is a big chance to see wild life. Bardia National Park is quite remote, but we recommend going here, as it’s less touristic. We have been to both and loved it. We only saw rhinos, but the whole experience of the jungle trek is amazing.
Besides during jungle treks you can also encounter wild life in cities and such. For instance, in Kathmandu you can visit the Swayambhunath temple where there are lots of cheeky monkeys.
Just be sure when you visit Nepal for it’s wildlife to be a responsible traveler and don’t ride any elephants. Also, read our article on whether it’s ethical to ride any animals at all.
5. There are lots of adventurous activities in Nepal
Nepal is the perfect place for a true adrenaline junkie. It’s not so strange, as it’s home to the highest mountain of the world; Mount Everest, and each year many adventurers risk their lives trying to climb it. But next to trekking and climbing mountains, there are countless of other adventurous activities you can undertake in the Roof of the World.
Perhaps you want to go on a jungle trek and encounter wild life. Or go bungee jumping, rafting, mountain biking, paragliding in Pokhara or even sky diving at Everest.
6. The amazing Nepalese cuisine
Seriously one of the few food photos we took in Nepal was during breakfast at Gaju Suite Hotel. We usually eat our food right away and forget to take a picture.
We love the food in Nepal. Its not strange that it’s so delicious, as the food is a combination of ingredients and techniques from neighbouring countries, such as India, China and Tibet. We personally love Indian food, and you can see there are definitely similarities and influences.
But although a lot of restaurants in Nepal offer Indian food, the Nepalese cuisine is not precisely the same. The Nepalese curries are often based on tomatoes and use less and milder spices, while Indian curries are often based on coconut milk.
Food in Nepal is generally quite healthy, and there are lots of vegetarian options everywhere. The most popular eaten dish is Dal Bhat, consisting of rice, lentil soup and various side dishes. Also, when you’re in Nepal you at least have to try momos, the Nepalese version of dumplings. These usually contain vegetables and are delicious.
7. Travelling in Nepal is affordable
This was the bus to Rara Lake, one of the scariest journeys we ever experienced.
It’s really not expensive to travel in Nepal. We managed to travel in Nepal with a budget of 30 euros per person each day. This included accommodation, food, activities and transportation. But, it all depends what you’re looking for. Maybe you’re looking for a bit more luxury than we had. But I must say, our budget was comfortable enough.
You can get a very decent hotel for 20 euros/dollars a night. If you travel by bus, you can get around for a few euros/dollars. There is some price difference if you go with a tourist or local bus. Also, usually the tourist bus is a lot more comfortable. Activities can often be a bit more pricey, but if you don’t book tours each day or DIY you’ll be fine.
8. Experience the Nepalese culture
Besides the stunning sceneries and amazing landscape, Nepal offers many cultural highlights. There are different customs and traditions found in various parts of Nepal. There are lots of religions, such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, Jainism, Sikhism and more. Therefore there are so many temples and cultures to experience in this country.
9. Have a great shopping experience in Nepal
Nepal offers a great shopping experience. Especially in Kathmandu you can get some gems. Clothes, jewellery, artwork, souvenirs, – everything can be found in Kathmandu. It’s often colourful, handmade and unique. Unfortunately we couldn’t buy that much as we had to carry around most of the stuff we bought. But if you’re going to Nepal for a few weeks only we recommend you to take as little as possible with you and just buy everything there. You can come back with a whole new wardrobe.
It is certainly not expensive to shop in Nepal, just like in most Southeast Asian countries. However, in Nepal you really have to bargain for the right price. Usually they don’t give you a fair price right away.
10. There is always more to see
Even though we spent more than two months in Nepal, which is quite a long time for us to stay in one place, we really want to go back. There are so many more mountains to climb, more remote areas to visit and unique landscapes to explore. We can’t wait to go back and to see more of Nepal.
So are you inspired to go to Nepal? You made the right choice! Check out our other articles about Nepal here and for more inspiration we always recommend to check out TripAdvisor, as you can immediately read reviews about activities, hotels and restaurants.
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Wow, nice blog about Nepal. Very impressive.
I have ONE BIG REASON TO FORGET ABOUT MY DREAM OF GOING TO NEPAL…. is the learning today about the “FESTIVAL” that KILLS thousands of animals!!!! What a absurd! And deception!
Hi Sarah, it’s terrible. Are you talking about Gadhimai festival? I just read about it. 🙁 Unfortunately a lot of countries have strange/questionable traditions (that I don’t support nor condone) and/or sometimes governments participate in unethical/questionable practices. It’s definitely always a difficult/interesting whether you should avoid such countries, because to be honest – most countries nowadays are guilty of one thing or another…
Mass tourism is ruining Nepal.
Hi Janet,
I think mass tourism is hurting a lot of places in a lot of different ways. However, more tourists might also be beneficial for Nepal, as the locals have more income and they can have the money to rebuild their homes after the earthquake of 2016.
Can you maybe elaborate on your claim. I would love to hear it.
Nepal is beautiful place for adventure and holy regards.
The worldwide best destination for travel and adventure, Nepal has many things to do. Travelers have lots of options for their holidays; tours, trekking, short hiking, soft adventures, rafting, wildlife safari and mountain expedition. The giant peaks Annapurna, Langtang, Manaslu and Khumbu Himalayas are the popular ones for trekking and climbing. So, are you still thinking of making your holidays awesome, then think no more, Visit Nepal Now. It’s time to make your experience memorable.
If you need any help, contact any of the government listed travel and trekking agencies.
Thank You
Raj (Trekking Buzz)
Nepal is absolutely beautiful and guest are treated as gods. Also you can find the worlds best trekking route.Nepal possesses diversified topographical and cultural mix. There are more than hundred ethnic groups residing in various parts of the country from Himalayas, mountains to flat lands of terai. It provides wonderful opportunity to get insight into their culture, history and lifestyle which would certainly be the new learning experience.
I wonder how can I miss Nepal? I love travelling solo and prefer adventures places most to travel. This place is exactly what I am looking for! Just let me know what is the ideal time to visit this place. Like, time when all activities will be available.
A really inspiring read that helps me realise that Nepal is so much more than just Mount Wcerest! I’m not much of an extreme hiker to want to attempt Mount Everest so this was a really good article to see what else there is to do! I would love to visit to sample the food and see the amazing wildlife!
Thank you so much Meg! Nepal is definitely so much more than Mount Everest :).
Loved this post! Nepal is really high on my bucket list, it seems like such an amazing country with such beautiful nature, friendly people and so many activities! You definitely convinced me to go to Nepal in the near future 🙂
Thanks Becky! I hope you go to Nepal soon 🙂
It’s definitely on my bucket list! Great article, makes me want to put it further up my list.
Thanks Lisa!
Great pics and article guys! Agreed about not riding elephants! Your photography is really epic!
Aw thanks Sommer! Love your ongoing support <3
Nepal is such a unique country ! First of all, the geographic area that gives Nepal a majestic view. And second, the culture – In Nepal you have Hindus and Buddhists. And of course, you got the Tibetan refugees that brought their culture with them. And so many more people from different cultures 🙂
OMG that makes me miss Nepal so much! It’s such an amazing place! Your pictures are beautiful and I agree with all of the reasons <3
We miss Nepal too! Thank you Denise!
I wanted to go to Nepal already! Now you convinced me even more! Amazing photography!
Ahh thanks Inge.
Nepal is one of those countries we never really considered visiting, but its nature looks beautiful! I had no idea you could spot almost all of the Big Five there. Thanks for making us to want to visit Nepal! Just another spot on that ever growing bucket list. 😉
Thanks Birthe!
Hey Birthe,
Really amazing decision. Have you been here till date? as I am replying to your message after almost 2 years haha. If you are interested to visit Nepal then The best seasons are yet to come. March-May and Sep-Nov are still waiting. A lot more positive development has occurred. And a sure thing to tell, Nepal is very safe to travel after 2015 earthquake.
Trekking and Expedition Company of Nepal
I’ve always wanted to visit Nepal, but after reading your post I want to go EVEN more! Beautiful photos! I would definitely do a trek and visit those beautiful lakes. 🙂
Aw thanks Danielle!
Nepal is one of the most spectacular places I have visited! I definitely agree with your tips!
Thanks! It really is :).
Thank you for sharing your trip with us! I have so many places I want to see because they are all so different. 🙂
Yes, we have the same! Thanks!
Such a beautiful place! I didn’t know it was such an adventurous place. Deftinely a country to see!
Yes, very adventurous! Thanks Pam.
I have always wanted to go to Nepal and most people think I’m crazy when I say that. This post just reaffirms what I already know. Awesome!
Yes you should go Tara! Don’t listen to the nay-sayers!
Already wanted to visit Nepal, but now I want to go there even more! 😀
Thanks for sharing!
Jessica