What to do in Nepal and the Himalaya

Nepal and the Himalayas offer a wide range of activities, from trekking and adventure sports to cultural and spiritual experiences. Here are some of the best things to do:

Adventure & Trekking

Everest Base Camp Trek – A bucket-list trek with breathtaking views of Everest.

Annapurna Circuit & Base Camp Trek – One of the most scenic trekking routes.

Langtang Valley Trek – A short but beautiful trek close to Kathmandu.

Manaslu Circuit Trek – A less crowded but challenging alternative to Annapurna.

Upper Mustang Trek – Explore the Tibetan-influenced "Last Forbidden Kingdom."

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek – For those seeking a remote Himalayan adventure.

Panchpokhari Trek – Visit the sacred alpine lakes in Sindhupalchok.

Adventure Sports

Mountaineering & Climbing – Try peaks like Island Peak, Mera Peak, or even Mount Everest.

Paragliding in Pokhara – Soar over Phewa Lake with stunning Annapurna views.

White-water Rafting & Kayaking – Trishuli, Bhote Koshi, and Kali Gandaki rivers offer thrilling rapids.

Bungee Jumping & Swing – Jump off the Bhote Koshi Gorge or Kushma Bridge.

Rock Climbing – Test your skills at places like Hattiban and Nagarjun.

Cultural & Spiritual Experiences

Explore Kathmandu Valley – Visit UNESCO sites like Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, and Patan Durbar Square.

Lumbini – The Birthplace of Buddha – A pilgrimage site with ancient monasteries.

Bhaktapur & Patan – Experience traditional Newari culture and architecture.

Monastery Stay in the Himalayas – Learn about Buddhism in places like Kopan Monastery or Tengboche.

Tiji Festival in Mustang – Witness a vibrant Buddhist festival in the Upper Mustang region.

Wildlife & Nature

Chitwan National Park – Go on a jungle safari to see rhinos, tigers, and elephants.

Bardia National Park – A more off-the-beaten-path wildlife experience.

Rara Lake – Visit Nepal’s largest lake, surrounded by pristine mountains.

Shey Phoksundo Lake – A stunning blue lake in the remote Dolpo region.

Ilam Tea Gardens – Experience Nepal’s tea culture and rolling green hills.

Unique Experiences

Everest Mountain Flight – Get a close-up aerial view of Everest.

Gosaikunda Pilgrimage – A sacred Himalayan lake trek for Hindus and Buddhists.

Homestay in Rural Villages – Experience local culture in places like Ghale Gaun or Panchpokhari.

Thamel Nightlife & Shopping – Enjoy live music, bars, and souvenir shopping in Kathmandu.

Tibetan Market Shopping – Buy authentic Tibetan handicrafts in Boudhanath or Pokhara.