Is Nepal Worth Visiting? 10 Reasons to Go

Is Nepal worth visiting? And if so, what is there to do and see there? After traveling to Nepal, I ended up more enchanted with the country than I had ever expected. Here I will cover all of the best reasons to visit Nepal – and prove exactly why Nepal is worth visiting!

Where Is Nepal?

Nepal is a country in Asia, situated between China and India along the Himalayan mountain range. It is a small strip of land almost lost between these two behemoths, with noticeable cultural influence from both.

For comparison, Nepal is only slightly larger than the state of Arkansas.

But what Nepal lacks in size, it makes up for in diversity. Nepal has the greatest altitude change of any location on Earth, from the lowlands at sea level to the tallest mountains in the world.

Is Nepal Worth Visiting?

When I mentioned that I was headed to Nepal in the spring, most Americans looked at me and asked, what are you going to do there? And, why is Nepal worth visiting?

It is not a very common place to visit for Americans, who tend to favor European destinations and Caribbean getaways.

Despite my fellow Americans’ doubt on the matter, I found Nepal to be one-thousand-percent worth visiting. It is charming and vibrant, yet with comfort and affordability lumped in.

Nepal is the type of place that true adventurers will love.

This country of contrasts is home to ten of the world’s 14 highest mountains. It is known for its deep spirituality. And, its growing as a major adventure and nature destination.

If you enjoy vibrant culture, incredible lush nature, loads of adventure and deeply spiritual roots, I think Nepal is for you. The people are calm and friendly, and the busy (albeit dusty) cities are part of the charm.

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Is Kathmandu worth visiting?

Speaking of dusty cities, Kathmandu – the capital – can be a bit of a challenge.

The air quality is bad here, with dust and smog and pollution surrounding you every day. The roads are not all paved and the busy city is growing.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to bring quality face masks to Kathmandu. Locals and tourists alike wear them as they walk or ride scooters outside, because some days the dust and smog can be unbearable. Take my advice. Your lungs will thank me. Get yours here!

Despite the dusty conditions, for anyone asking is Kathmandu worth visiting – my wholehearted answer is yes!

There are so many things to see in Kathmandu. From the famous Swayambunath Stupa to the deeply somber Pashupatinath Temple to the ancient Durbar Square, there is a lot of culture to explore here.

A lot of people come to Nepal specifically for trekking, and they completely skip the cities. But if you ask me, that is a mistake. (And I’m not even a “city person” so to speak!)

While the nature is breathtaking, it is in these cultural hubs that you truly get to understand the people.

Is Pokhara worth visiting?

Most international tourists will fly in to Kathmandu, so it is an easier place to spend a day or two exploring.

But Pokhara is worth visiting in its own right!

The second largest city is Nepal is a stark contrast to Kathmandu. Things feel less congested, and the streets feel more walkable. The noticeable lack of dust is a godsend.

Pokhara is where you should station yourself if you plan to take part in adventure activities, like paragliding or bungee jumping. These activities are exactly why I spent time in Pokhara in the first place.

But besides adventure, Pokhara has it’s own cultural sights to offer.

The famous Bindabasini Temple and the Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave are well worth visiting in Pokhara, as is a relaxing boat ride on the Phewa Lake.

So, yes – Pokhara, Kathmandu, and Nepal itself are definitely worth visiting!

10 Reasons to Visit Nepal

So now that we have established whether or not Nepal is worth visiting, now we can dive into more of the specific reasons to visit this colorful country.

1. The vibrant culture.

The people of Nepal are, overall, calm and patient by nature. Much of Nepal’s culture is deeply steeped in tradition and religion.

Nepal as a whole tolerates many different faiths and ethnicities and everyone seems to coexist harmoniously. The major religions in Nepal are Hindu and Buddhism, and elements of each can be seen everywhere.

Vibrant temples touched in gold and neon flower petals adorn Hindu places of worship. Offerings sit in front of proud sculptures and colorful attire appears at every turn.

Buddhist stupas are bathed in white with primary-colored flags billowing overhead. Giant golden Buddhas sit atop ornate and rainbow-painted alters. Deep red prayer wheels are perched, waiting to be turned by devout hands.

I didn’t have any preconceived notions of what to expect from Nepal’s culture. But I left having a deep respect for their demeanor and traditions. It is one of the top reasons to visit Nepal and experience it first-hand!

Pro Tip: For anyone that wants to dig deeper into Nepal’s historical and present-day culture, I highly recommend this UNESCO World Sites Tour in Kathmandu. You’ll visit the top sights in the city with zero stress about transportation. Book your tour here!

2. The incredible nature.

Nepal is a country blessed with breathtaking natural beauty.

While the country is home to many remarkable outdoor destinations, Chitwan National Park stands out as one of the most stunning ones.

This park is a protected area located in the subtropical inner Terai lowlands of south-central Nepal.

It is a must-visit for nature lovers, as it offers a chance to catch a glimpse of rare and endangered animals, such as the majestic Bengal tiger and the one-horned rhino.

Pro Tip: Take a multi-day safari tour in Chitwan to see it all! You will enjoy a Jeep safari a walking safari, and even a ride in a traditional dugout canoe, amidst the gharial crocodiles. Chitwan was a true highlight for me. Book your safari here!

The country is also home to bright blue rivers, the tallest mountain range in the world, and green-washed village landscapes so pleasing for the eye to see.

If you appreciate lush nature, you will be positively taken with Nepal.

3. The world-class adventures.

One of the reasons I chose to visit Nepal in the first place was because of the country’s adventure activities. I had always wanted to go bungee jumping, and Nepal has some of the best opportunities for it!

Besides bungee jumping, you can also go paragliding in Pokhara, or soar the skies in an ultralight flight. Love ziplining? The steepest zipline in the world lives here!

And, I absolutely loved my experience whitewater rafting on the Trishuli River.

Nepal is one of the best adventure destinations in the world. I loved it so much, that I’m hoping to return back and redo it all.

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4. Trekking the mountains.

Nepal’s landscape is varied, from lush valleys to snow-capped mountains. This provides a diverse range of trekking options, like the popular Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp treks.

The Everest Base Camp trek is a challenging yet rewarding route, with panoramic views of the world’s highest mountain. Travelers visit from all around to hike the EBC.

Alternately, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is more accessible and less strenuous. And, it offers amazing sights of the Annapurna mountain range and of the Gurung settlements.

These two routes are just a small example of the many incredible trekking opportunities Nepal has to offer. With its breathtaking scenery, unique culture, and warm hospitality, there are countless reasons to visit Nepal and experience a true adventure.

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5. Affordable prices.

Nepal is worth visiting for more than its trekking. It is an affordable destination that can cater to most traveler-types, even those on a shoestring budget.

One can expect to pay as little as $10 per night for a hostel bed and around $30 for a basic but clean hotel room.

As for food, hearty and delicious meals can be enjoyed for around $2-5, give or take, depending on your preferences and location. And the local staples like dal bhat and momo’s are so filling!

These low prices make Nepal an ideal destination for budget-minded travelers, without sacrificing quality experiences or tastes.

Overall, if you’re wondering if Nepal is worth visiting, the answer is undoubtedly yes, especially for those looking for a cost-effective adventure!

6. The peaceful spirituality.

Since Nepal is a deeply religious country steeped in traditions, it should be no surprise that its a haven for the spiritual-minded.

Experiences like guided meditation, peaceful soundbaths, and yoga retreats are easily found all across the country. I was personally most taken with the soundbaths and singing bowls, as they were something I had experienced before.

To get a small taste of local spirituality, visit the Buddhist stupas and Hindu temples. Walk clockwise around the stupas and turn the prayer wheels. Lay offerings to the Hindu gods and view wedding traditions on site.

The whole country has an aura of peacefulness about it, even in the busiest city centers. I can almost guarantee you’ll feel it too.

7. Easy comfort and convenience.

Nepal is used to tourism. Their hotel staff knows how to cater and assist travelers, and guides and sherpas always seem willing to lend a helping hand.

Because of these facts, it is easy to find comfort and convenience in Nepal.

For a lower price point than many other countries, travelers can find comfortable hotels, and even luxury hotels, for much less. Fluffy pillows and daily room service and in-hotel spas are all within reach.

And on treks and tours, the guides know how to help. They can answer all of your questions about sights and attractions, and they can provide gear and tents on even the most remote treks.

Though Nepal is still a developing country, it is well-versed in tourism and hits customer service wishes out of the park.

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8. Sprawling ancient cities.

History buffs will be happy to know, the ancient cities of Nepal provide an excellent opportunity to explore the country’s past.

Bhaktapur, for instance is known for its stunning architecture and sprawling footprint. The city’s Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the impressive 55-Window Palace and the Golden Gate.

Another ancient city that’s worth a visit is Patan.

Patan is renowned for its well-preserved Newari architecture, particularly in Durbar Square. The ancient city is home to a collection of impressive temples such as the 17th century Krishna Temple and the Golden Temple.

Visitors can also explore the charming alleys and courtyards of the city, which are unlike anything else in Nepal.

Together, these ancient cities represent some of the best Nepal has to offer in terms of culture and history, and they offer a glimpse into the country’s fascinating past. Both made my list of the best things to do in Kathmandu, so don’t miss them!

9. The incredible local food.

I mentioned above how cheap the food is in Nepal, but I did not do any justice to just how tasty it is!

Dal bhat is the culinary staple f the country, and something that locals eat multiple times each and every day. The dish is made up of steamed rice, lentil soup, and a variety of vegetables.

Momos are also a tasty local favorite. These dumplings can be made with meat or vegetables, and once stuffed are steamed or friend.

These dishes not only provide a taste of Nepali cuisine, but they also offer a cultural experience that’s worth indulging. The combination of distinct flavors, spices, and cooking techniques create a unique culinary experience that’s unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere.

If you’re looking for a reason to visit Nepal, taking a culinary journey through its traditional foods like dal bhat and momos is definitely one of them. Your taste buds will thank me.

10. You are helping the locals.

Nepal suffered a devastating earthquake back in 2015, the likes of which are still evident around Kathmandu.

The earthquake caused widespread destruction and claimed thousands of lives. As the country began to rebuild, tourists paused their plans to visit the region, questioning the safety and stability of the country.

While the earthquake left a lasting impact, Nepal has made significant strides in recovering and rebuilding its infrastructure. But, scaffolding is not an uncommon sight.

Now more than ever, visiting Nepal can also support the local communities and help aid in its continued recovery.

Whenever possible, I recommend booking local hotels and guesthouses and visiting small eateries and shops. It goes a long way!

FAQ’s on Nepal Travel

Is Nepal good for tourists?

Emphatically, yes! Tourism is alive and well in Nepal, and local operators know how to deliver. If you like nature, adventure, history, or culture, Nepal is a great place worth visiting.

How many days in Nepal is enough?

It depends on what you want to do. I recommend a minimum of ten days so that you can explore a few different areas based on your interests. I recommend this 10 day adventure tour of Nepal if you would like to see everything without the stress of planning.

What is so special about Nepal?

Nepal is special for several reasons. One, it is the birthplace of Buddha, and Buddhism is the second most popular religion here after Hinduism. Two, Nepal’s extraordinary landscape delivers the highest peak, the deepest lake, the highest valley, and the deepest gorge.

Is Nepal safe for Americans to visit?

Yes. Nepal is a very safe place to visit, even for solo female travelers. Americans can visit rather easily, applying for a visa on arrival and very few scams or hassles.

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Final Thoughts – Is Nepal Worth Visiting

Nepal impressed me in ways that I didn’t expect.

The cultural sites of Kathmandu and Pokhara were so vibrant and colorful! The nature was surreal. The adventure activities were downright thrilling. And the people are so friendly.

For anyone questioning if Nepal is worth visiting, the reasons above are just the beginning. Anyone looking for a true adventure in a beautiful yet spiritual place – Nepal is the place!

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