Things to do in Nepal
Not sure how to spend your time in Nepal? From exploring famous attractions to trying unique local activities, our guide to the top things to do will make your trip unforgettable.
Top 30 curated things to do in Nepal

Everest Base Camp Trek
Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek is the classic high‑altitude trek through the Khumbu (Solukhumbu) region of Nepal that takes you from the warm river valleys and Sherpa villages up to the foot of the world's highest mountain. The route passesSagarmatha National Park, lush rhododendron forests, traditional Sherpa monasteries, high alpine moraine and glacial landscapes, rewarding trekkers with close-up views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Ama Dablam. This trek is high‑altitude but non‑technical — no climbing gear is required, though good fitness and careful acclimatization are essential.

Annapurna Circuit Trek
Annapurna Circuit is one of Nepal's classic high‑altitude treks, circling the Annapurna Massif through diverse landscapes — subtropical valleys, terraced farmland, alpine meadows and the high Thorong La pass. The route covers villages in Manang and Myagdi districts and offers dramatic views of Annapurna I (8091 m), Dhaulagiri and other peaks. Expect mixed teahouse accommodation, variable weather, and an unforgettable cultural and natural experience.

Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek takes you into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, offering close-up panoramic views of Annapurna I (8,091 m), Machapuchare (Fishtail) and other major Himalayan peaks. The trek leads to the natural amphitheatre known as the Annapurna Sanctuary and finishes at ABC at approximately 4,130 m / 13,549 ft. The route passes through rhododendron forests, traditional Gurung and Magar villages and a mix of terraced farmland and high alpine terrain.

Pokhara Lakeside & Phewa Lake Boating
Pokhara Lakeside & Phewa Lake Boating is a relaxed sightseeing and cultural experience centered around the tranquil waters of Phewa Lake in Pokhara, Kaski, Nepal. Visitors can enjoy traditional wooden rowboats or paddle boats, visit the small island temple (Tal Barahi), take in panoramic views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare (Fishtail) ranges reflected on the lake, and stroll the vibrant Lakeside area with cafés, shops and viewpoints.

Chitwan National Park Jungle Safari
A wildlife safari experience in Chitwan National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) offering jeep safaris, elephant-back safaris, canoe trips, and guided walking safaris to see one-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers (rare), Asian elephants, gharial crocodiles, various deer species, and rich birdlife in subtropical riverine and sal forest habitats.

Paragliding from Sarangkot
Paragliding from Sarangkot is a world-class tandem paragliding experience that combines adrenaline with spectacular aerial views of the Annapurna range, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Phewa Lake. Flights are conducted by certified tandem pilots; no prior experience is required. The activity includes pickup/transfer, safety briefing, harnessing, a scenic flight of typically 20–40 minutes, and a gentle landing near Pokhara.

Everest Scenic Mountain Flight
A short, early-morning aerial sightseeing flight from Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu) that gives spectacular close-up views of Mount Everest (Sagarmatha) and several 8,000m and 7,000m Himalayan peaks without trekking. Ideal for travelers short on time who want dramatic Himalayan panoramas and photography opportunities.

Boudhanath Stupa Visit
Boudhanath Stupa (Boudha) is one of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a major center of Tibetan Buddhism in Kathmandu and an important pilgrimage site. The stupa features a large white dome topped by a gilded tower painted with the watchful eyes of the Buddha, surrounded by a bustling kora (circumambulatory path) lined with prayer wheels, monasteries (gompas), shops, and cafes. Visitors can experience religious rituals, spinning prayer wheels, listening to monks chanting, and enjoying panoramic views from nearby rooftop cafes.

Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) Visit
Swayambhunath, commonly called the Monkey Temple, is one of Kathmandu's oldest and most important religious sites. Perched on a hill west of Kathmandu city, the complex centers on a large white stupa topped by a gilded spire painted with the iconic 'all-seeing' eyes of Buddha. The site blends Buddhist and Hindu traditions, contains numerous shrines and monasteries, and offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. It is part of the Kathmandu Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Pashupatinath Temple & Evening Aarti
Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most sacred Hindu shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu. The complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a powerful cultural and spiritual experience, culminating each evening with the atmospheric Aarti (ritual of light) performed by priests. The visit combines temple architecture, living religious practices, and a chance to observe traditional cremation rites along the river.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square Heritage Walk
Bhaktapur Durbar Square Heritage Walk is a guided or self-guided exploration of one of Nepal's best-preserved medieval city centers. The walk takes you through ancient courtyards, temples, palaces and artisan quarters, offering a deep dive into Newar architecture, traditional crafts, and living cultural practices. Expect stunning pagoda and shikhara temples, carved woodwork, and bustling local life.

Patan Durbar Square & Museum
Patan Durbar Square & Museum is the historic core of Lalitpur (Patan) and a key part of the Kathmandu Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site. The complex combines a royal palace, courtyards, and an outstanding collection of Newar-era stone and wood carvings. The Patan Museum—housed in a beautifully restored palace—displays exquisite metalwork, paubha paintings, and sculptures representing both Hindu and Buddhist traditions.

Langtang Valley Trek
Langtang Valley Trek is a classic Himalayan teahouse trek located in Rasuwa District, north of Kathmandu. The route takes trekkers through dense rhododendron and pine forests, traditional Tamang villages, alpine meadows and up into the high Langtang Valley dominated by the massif of Langtang Lirung. It's accessible year-round but is best in spring and autumn when skies are clear. This trek is popular as a shorter, less-crowded alternative to the Everest and Annapurna regions and offers strong cultural experiences with friendly local communities and monasteries.

Ghorepani–Poon Hill Sunrise Trek
A classic short trek in the Annapurna foothills offering one of Nepal's most iconic sunrise viewpoints over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The route passes through rhododendron forests, traditional Gurung villages and terraced farmland, making it ideal for first-time trekkers and those short on time.

White-water Rafting on Trishuli River
Experience one of Nepal's most popular and accessible white-water rafting trips on the Trishuli River — a scenic, adrenaline-filled stretch located between Kathmandu and Pokhara. The river features a mix of Class II–III rapids, beautiful gorges, riverside villages, and easy logistics, making it ideal for first-timers and experienced rafters alike. Trip options range from half-day runs to full-day adventures with picnic lunches and river-side stops.

Upper Mustang & Lo Manthang Overland/Trek
An iconic trans-Himalayan journey into the restricted kingdom of Lo Manthang in Upper Mustang. The route combines high desert landscapes, ancient Tibetan-influenced culture, fortified walled towns, red cliffs, caves, and remote gompas. The area is a restricted zone requiring special permits and guided travel; itineraries can be done as a multi-day trek or by combining jeep/overland segments for a gentler option.

Lumbini Sacred Garden & Monasteries
Lumbini Sacred Garden is the birthplace of Lord Buddha and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site centers on the Mayadevi Temple and the sacred Puskarini pond, surrounded by the archaeological remains, Ashoka Pillar and a globally unique Monastic Zone where over 50 monasteries built by Buddhist communities from around the world create a peaceful, contemplative park. The site combines archaeological significance, active worship, architectural diversity and international monastic culture.

Nagarkot Sunrise & Himalayan Viewpoints
Watch the spectacular sunrise over the Himalayan range from Nagarkot, a popular hill station east of Kathmandu. The experience includes panoramic views of the Greater Himalaya (on clear mornings you can see Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and even Everest peaks), sweeping views of the Kathmandu Valley and nearby villages, and short walks to several viewpoints and a panoramic tower.

Bandipur Old Town Heritage Walk
Bandipur Old Town Heritage Walk is a short cultural walking tour through the preserved Newari hill town of Bandipur (Tanahun), Nepal. The walk explores narrow cobbled lanes, traditional Newari architecture, small temples, local bazaars, and panoramic Himalayan viewpoints. It's ideal for travelers who want a compact, authentic cultural experience with excellent photo opportunities and scenic vistas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

Bardia National Park Safari
Bardia National Park Safari offers an immersive wildlife experience in one of Nepal's most pristine and least-crowded national parks. Located in Bardiya (western Nepal), the park is renowned for excellent sightings of the Royal Bengal tiger, wild elephants, swamp deer, and a rich variety of birds. Safaris combine jeep drives, guided jungle walks, river canoeing and optional community visits to nearby Tharu villages for a cultural element.
