Top 8 Destinations to Explore in Nepal

Although small in area, Nepal boasts immense diversity. Famous for its towering mountains, this Himalayan country also features historic cities, wildlife-rich national parks, sacred Hindu and Buddhist sites, tea plantations, and more.

When planning your Nepal adventure, let your primary activities guide your choice of destinations. For trekking, the mountains are the obvious choice. But which ranges should you explore? Each region presents unique experiences and varying levels of accessibility from the major cities.

To assist you in your selection, here’s a summary of the top spots to discover in Nepal, whether you’re interested in leisurely sightseeing or more vigorous activities.

1. Kathmandu Valley

Ideal for Historic Palaces and Temples

Most journeys in Nepal commence in the Kathmandu Valley, and this capital region warrants ample exploration. Historically made up of several kingdoms — notably Kathmandu, Patan/Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur — the approximately 25km-wide (15-mile) Kathmandu Valley has now become a sprawling urban area with shrinking farmland at its edges. The valley's human history stretches back thousands of years, where visitors can admire ancient temples, medieval palaces, and experience the vibrant Newari culture amid modern concrete structures.

Travelers should focus on central Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur, which together form a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring seven distinct monument zones: the Durbar (royal) Squares of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur, along with sacred Hindu and Buddhist sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Changu Narayan. While the first six attract many tourists, Changu Narayan, located on the northeastern edge of the valley, sees fewer visitors, making it an excellent spot to escape the crowds during peak season.

Travel Tip: Contrary to popular belief, Kathmandu is not particularly high at 1400m (4600ft), so it’s unlikely you'll experience altitude sickness. The weather is generally warm, especially from March to October.

Planning your trip? Check out our seasonal guide for the best times to visit Nepal

2. Solukhumbu District

For a view of the majestic Sagarmatha, also known as Mt Everest

On exceptionally clear days, if you know where to look, you might catch a glimpse of a sliver of Mt Everest (known as Sagarmatha in Nepali and Chomolongma in Sherpa) from Kathmandu. However, to truly see the world's highest peak, you’ll need to venture to the Solukhumbu District, located to the northeast of the capital.

There is no road leading to Everest on the Nepalese side, so most trekkers beginning the Everest Base Camp trek in the Solukhumbu District take a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a village a few days' walk away from the mountain. This area is home to Sagarmatha National Park and is predominantly inhabited by the Sherpa people, known for their unique Tibetan-influenced culture.

Planning tip: If you're short on time and can't trek into the Solukhumbu District, consider taking a scenic flight from Kathmandu to catch views of Everest.

Prepare for your trek to Everest Base Camp with our comprehensive planning guide

3. Mustang

Ideal for experiencing Tibetan culture

Nestled on the northern edge of the Annapurna Range and bordering the Tibetan Plateau, the Mustang Region features a stark, windswept terrain inhabited by ethnically Tibetan communities. You can take a short flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, flying through the world's deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki Gorge, or opt for a rough 160km (100-mile) 4WD journey. Alternatively, hike along the Annapurna Circuit.

Mustang is split into Lower and Upper regions, and this distinction is important. Lower Mustang is relatively easy to access (despite some logistical challenges), while Upper Mustang is only open to non-Nepali tourists on guided tours, requiring a hefty fee of at least US$500 for a special 10-day permit, plus US$50 per day thereafter. Notable spots include the apple-growing village of Marpha, Kagbeni village by the Kali Gandaki River, the Muktinath Temple, a significant Hindu pilgrimage site, and the walled capital of Upper Mustang, Lo Manthang.

Planning tip: Access to Mustang is severely restricted during the monsoon season (June to early September) when roads are often washed out and flights can be canceled, as well as in winter when temperatures drop significantly, particularly in Upper Mustang.

4. Pokhara

Ideal for a laid-back lakeside atmosphere

Located 200km (125 miles) west of the capital, Pokhara is Nepal’s second city and offers a striking contrast to Kathmandu. Nestled by Lake Phewa (Phewa Tal) and beneath the Annapurna Himalayas, the mountain scenery in Pokhara is simply breathtaking.

Many travelers pass through Pokhara while heading to and from trekking in the Annapurnas, as it provides vehicle links and flights to remote mountain villages. Visitors can also enjoy rowing on the lake, sipping affordable drinks along the Lakeside promenade, white-water rafting on the Seti River, paragliding from Sarangkot Hill, exploring the Shanti Stupa (World Peace Pagoda), and taking the Annapurna Cable Car for panoramic mountain views.

Planning tip: If you have respiratory issues or are traveling with children, consider choosing Pokhara over Kathmandu for its better air quality and reduced traffic congestion.

5. Annapurna Himalaya

Ideal for a variety of trekking routes

You don’t have to travel far from Pokhara to access the Annapurna Himalaya — many trekking paths begin just about an hour's drive from the city. From the iconic pointed summit of Mt Fishtail (Macchapucchre) to the majestic snow-capped Mt Dhaulagiri, the Annapurna range is truly breathtaking.

For active adventurers, there are plenty of trekking choices. Australian Camp/Dhampus and Poon Hill are some of the best family-friendly treks in Nepal, offering easy trails with stunning views. For those with more time and energy, consider the Annapurna Circuit, Annapurna Sanctuary, Mardi Himal, or Lake Tilicho treks as additional options.

Planning tip: If you’re seeking the best experiences in Nepal during a 10-day trip, plan for a few days in both Kathmandu and Pokhara, along with a short trek in the Annapurna Himalaya, and perhaps a jungle safari in Chitwan.

Having trouble selecting a hiking trail? Check out our guide to the top routes in Nepal

6. Lumbini

Ideal for Buddhist temples and pilgrimage destinations

Buddhism enthusiasts should definitely visit Lumbini, located in the far west of Nepal, as it's the birthplace of the historical Buddha, Prince Siddhartha Gautam. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lumbini features not only the significant Maya Devi Temple, believed to be the site of his birth, but also various temples and monasteries constructed by Buddhist communities from around the globe. While there is a small international airport in Lumbini, it can also be accessed via a lengthy drive from Kathmandu or Pokhara.

7. Chitwan National Park

Best destination for wildlife safaris

Nepal offers more than just mountains. The lush jungles of the Terai region, bordering India, are teeming with diverse wildlife, including the endangered one-horned rhinoceros (whose numbers have increased in Chitwan in recent years), Royal Bengal tigers, gharial and mugger crocodiles, as well as various deer species and birds.

Chitwan National Park is the most renowned of the Terai's reserves and parks, easily reachable from both Kathmandu and Pokhara. From Sauraha town, you can embark on safaris, visit wildlife rehabilitation centers, and gain insights into the indigenous Tharu culture of Chitwan.

Planning tip: The best time to visit Chitwan is late January or early February, when locals clear the tall elephant grass, making wildlife easier to spot.

8. Ilam

Best destination for tea plantations and views of Mt Kanchenjunga

Often missed by travelers due to its remote location in eastern Nepal, Ilam is the heart of the country’s tea industry. Although it borders the well-known tea region of Darjeeling in India, Ilam remains less recognized in the tea world. Visitors can explore the lush tea fields and enjoy breathtaking views of Mt Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak globally, located on the Nepal–India border to the north of Ilam. The trekking routes in this area are also relatively unknown, offering various options, including the challenging Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek.