Beyond the Peaks: Essential Experiences in Nepal

Nepal, home to eight of the world’s highest summits, is renowned for its majestic mountains.

In essence, no matter your interests, the Himalayas will be a key highlight of your journey in this remarkable country. Trekking, climbing, and soaking in the breathtaking views of Everest, Annapurna, and other towering giants are unforgettable experiences when visiting Nepal.

However, mountains are just the beginning of what Nepal has to offer. The country boasts rich ancient cultures, vibrant jungles teeming with wildlife, and extensive rivers that are perfect for exploration.

From the peaks to the valleys, here are eight top activities in Nepal, catering to every type of traveler.

1. Explore trails among the world’s highest peaks…

First, it’s important to clarify: trekking and mountain climbing are distinctly different. You can hike along rural paths through villages, valleys, and forests without scaling a mountain. Nepal is renowned for its mountain trekking, with modern routes that utilize age-old trails, offering plenty of comfortable lodgings and dining options along the way. Much of Nepal remains inaccessible by road, making hiking the only way to access many mountain communities.

From easy day hikes at lower elevations to extensive multi-week treks, including camping and teahouse experiences, there’s an option for every energy level, budget, and timeframe. While the Everest Base Camp trek is understandably popular, it’s also easy to stray from the crowds and wander paths frequented only by local villagers and their donkeys and yaks.

Planning tip: Be cautious when asking locals how long it will take to walk to your destination. Many Nepalis living in the hills and mountains are accustomed to these high-altitude trails, leading them to significantly underestimate travel times for outsiders. Unless you're exceptionally fit, take their estimates with a pinch of (Himalayan) salt.

2. …or scale those peaks, if you’re ready for a challenge

Some adventurous individuals come to Nepal to summit Mt Everest (known as Sagarmatha in Nepali and Chomolongma in Sherpa), but there are plenty of other majestic peaks to conquer without such extreme efforts. For those with mountaineering experience from Europe or North America, the Nepal Himalaya presents an ideal next challenge. Alongside the iconic giants, popular climbs include Yala Peak (18,110ft/5520m), Lobuche (20,075ft/6119m), and Imja Tse (20,305ft/6189m). Local guides will ensure you are well-prepared and supported throughout your climb.

3. Experience the sunrise from mountain viewpoints

You don’t have to climb to the mountain summits to enjoy breathtaking vistas. In southwestern Kathmandu, take the cable car to Chandragiri Hills Resort for stunning views of the Langtang Range, the snow-capped giants on the northern horizon, framed by the lush hills of the Kathmandu Valley. For an overnight getaway, visit nearby Nagarkot or Namo Buddha, hill towns offering excellent accommodations with mountain views. Between Kathmandu and Pokhara, the four-tiered pagoda of Manakamana Temple (accessible via cable car from Kurintar) provides fantastic views of Mt Manaslu, the eighth-highest peak in the world, while the historic Newari town of Bandipur is a charming place to spend the night in traditional farmhouse-style lodgings, boasting views of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and more.

In Pokhara, the Annapurna Cable Car climbs Sarangkot Hill (a premier paragliding site) for stunning views of the fishtail silhouette of Mt Macchapucchre, while the shining white dome of the Shanti Stupa (World Peace Pagoda), located south of Lake Phewa in Pokhara, offers a sweeping panorama of the city, lake, and surrounding hills and mountains.

Planning tip: Sunrise is an especially opportune time to soak in the views, as the golden light enhances the scenery and the skies are often clearer.

4. Embark on a safari in the Terai

The Terai, a flat region adjacent to India, offers a striking contrast to the mountainous landscapes of Nepal. Its jungle national parks are home to a significant population of one-horned rhinoceroses, along with smaller numbers of endangered Bengal tigers and gharial crocodiles, as well as various other wildlife, including mugger crocodiles and numerous deer species.

Chitwan National Park is the most visited park in the Terai, known for its easy access from both Kathmandu and Pokhara; Sauraha town serves as a convenient base for accommodation and safari arrangements. If you seek a less touristy experience and have more time, consider the remote Bardia National Park in western Nepal, where you can find basic lodging and better chances to view wildlife in their natural habitat.

Detour: Farther west than Bardia, Shuklaphanta National Park lies in Nepal’s southwestern corner. This secluded area of forests and grasslands hosts a variety of mammals and birds, notably a significant population of the critically endangered Bengal florican (or Bengal bustard), magnificent birds among the heaviest flying species.

5. Experience the thrill of white-water rafting

The steep gradients of rivers flowing down from the Himalayas provide a thrilling experience for white-water rafting and kayaking enthusiasts in Nepal. One-day rafting excursions on the Bhote Kosi, Trisuli, and Seti Rivers are available from Kathmandu and Pokhara, offering a taste of adventure for beginners or those pressed for time. Multi-day rafting adventures (with kayaking options for seasoned paddlers) mirror the experience of a lengthy trek, allowing you to paddle and float through shimmering waters flanked by lush hills and mountains, camping on pristine sandy riverbanks at night. Guides often entertain with a-cappella renditions of Nepali folk songs like “Resham Firiri” by the campfire after preparing meals for you. The Sun Kosi (meaning “river of gold”), Karnali, and Tamur Rivers are particularly favored for extended trips. Companies like GRG Adventure Kayaking, Ultimate Descents, and Rafting Star can help organize your adventure.

6. Take the plunge from mountains or dive into waterfalls

Adventure enthusiasts can indulge their desire to jump from heights while enjoying stunning natural surroundings. Thanks to its consistent thermals, Sarangkot Hill in Pokhara is a favorite for paragliding; even if you don't participate, you'll see vibrant wings gliding over the lake. In Pokhara, you can also experience zip-lining, bungee jumping, ATV tours, or even a ride in an ultralight aircraft. From Kathmandu, The Last Resort, located 62 miles (100 km) away, features a canyon swing and a bungee platform perched high above the Bhote Kosi River, along with canyoning excursions.

Local tip: Between Mugling and Narayanghat, just off the Prithvi Hwy, Jalbire is recognized by knowledgeable Nepali river guides as the top canyoning destination in Nepal. The towering waterfalls and smooth rock slides here make it a worthwhile stop.

7. Discover centuries of history at the historic sites of Kathmandu

With a history spanning thousands of years, Nepal's culture reflects influences from India to the south and Tibet to the north. While Hinduism prevails as the main religion, there’s a notable Buddhist community, particularly evident in Kathmandu and the mountainous regions adjacent to Tibet. Even if you’re not a practitioner, Nepal’s numerous Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage sites—along with various temples, palaces, and stupas—offer captivating insights into Nepali culture and history.

Amidst the urban sprawl of Kathmandu, don’t miss the city’s stunning and important architecture. The Kathmandu Valley features seven monument zones that collectively constitute a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you’re searching for activities in Kathmandu, these heritage locations should be at the top of your list.

Planning tip: Enhance your understanding of the religious and vernacular architecture in the Kathmandu Valley by visiting the outstanding Patan Museum, located within the historic brick and intricately carved wooden palace at Patan Durbar Square.

8. Engage with local handicrafts—try making and purchasing them

Certain neighborhoods in the Kathmandu Valley—especially Patan and Bhaktapur—function like living galleries of local arts and crafts. What is often labeled as “Nepali” craftsmanship is primarily Newari, created by artisans from the original inhabitants of the Kathmandu Valley. As you stroll through the alleys of Patan or Bhaktapur, you’ll find many artisans laboring in small workshops tucked behind their storefronts. This is a must-do for anyone passionate about arts, crafts, and beautiful creations in Kathmandu.

These crafts are not merely staged for tourists; they are deeply woven into local life and spirituality. Brass ornaments continue to play a role in everyday decor and personal use, while homes are adorned with hand-carved windows and doors. If you’re interested in hands-on experience, you can join a craft workshop where you can forge a kukri knife, paint a thangka Buddhist painting, or create your own mala bead necklace under the guidance of an expert.

Detour: Located off the main road between Kathmandu and Bhaktapur in the eastern Kathmandu Valley, the lesser-known town of Madhyapur is renowned for its pottery. Unfortunately, many travelers overlook it or are unaware of its existence. If you’re a pottery enthusiast, consider taking a detour to explore the terracotta pots drying in public spaces on sunny days.

Continue planning your Nepal adventure:

• Getting around Nepal: by bus, plane, and bicycle

• 6 must-see day-trip spots from Kathmandu

• Select your peak: exploring the best trekking areas in Nepal