Nepal, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, offers a multitude of opportunities for adventure, cultural exploration, and spiritual journeys. From scaling majestic peaks to immersing oneself in ancient traditions, Nepal captivates travelers with its diverse offerings. In this article, we will explore 20 such popular activities to do in Nepal, ensuring an unforgettable experience for every visitor.
Climbing the Mountains
Nepal is renowned for its diverse Himalayan terrain, from the world's highest Mount Everest, and first climbed Mountain Annapurna, There are 14 mountains above 8000 meters and Nepal has eight of them. Climbing enthusiasts from around the world flock to Nepal to conquer these formidable summits. Whether you are a seasoned mountaineer or an aspiring climber, Nepal's mountains provide the ultimate challenge and adventure. Before embarking on a climbing expedition, it is essential to acquire proper training, necessary permits, and expert guidance to ensure a safe and successful ascent.
Mountain peaks above 6000 meters are great opportunities to experience mountain expeditions in Nepal. There are 1310 peaks above 6000 meters and 238 mountains and peaks are open to climbers. Famous peaks like Island Peak, Mera Peak, and Lobuche Peak are the popular climbing peaks of the country that are best for beginners dreaming to stand on top of this magical world.
NimsDai, Adventure Consultants, and Sherpa Expedition are the best Expedition provider. Looking for Peak Climbing in Nepal, our incredible climbing team will take care of it.
Trekking & Hiking
Trekking is one of the most popular activities in Nepal, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscapes. From the iconic Everest Base Camp Trek to the diversified Annapurna Circuit Trek, there are numerous routes gratifying to different skill levels and preferences. Trekking in Nepal allows you to witness the region's natural beauty, encounter diverse flora and fauna, and immerse yourself in the local culture.
If you are looking for demanding adventure, the Everest region and Kanchenjunga region fulfill the adventurer's dream, this area has an arduous landscape, enormous mountain range, and unpredictable weather. If you are a natural hiker, you can take on the famous trails of Nepal, the beautiful Annapurna trail and captivating Manaslu Circuit are diversified and enormously beautiful. Nepal also offers incredible short treks and Hikes that fill both beauty and magnificence, the Poon Hill Trek and Mardi Himal Trek offer an incredible opportunity to explore Nepal in minimum duration.
No matter your time and preferences, there is a diverse trail that supports all your needs and fulfills your travel enthusiasm.
Check our Guide on Trekking in Nepal
Cultural Experiences
Nepal boasts a rich cultural heritage shaped by centuries-old traditions and customs. Exploring ancient temples, monasteries, and historical sites provides a glimpse into the country's profound spirituality and artistic excellence. Witnessing religious ceremonies and festivals in Nepal allows visitors to actively engage with the local communities and experience their vibrant traditions.
Nepal is known for its vibrant festivals, each carrying its own cultural significance. From the grand celebration of Dashain, the longest and most auspicious festival, to the colorful revelry of Holi, the festival of colors, Nepal's festivals offer an immersive cultural experience. Visitors have the opportunity to witness traditional rituals, join in the festivities, and gain a deeper understanding of Nepalese traditions.
Exploring the culinary delights of Nepal is a must for food enthusiasts. From traditional dishes like momo, dal bhat, and Newari cuisine to a wide variety of street food, Nepal offers a rich culinary experience. Additionally, the country is home to vineyards and wineries producing excellent wines, like Ai-La, Chhyang, Marpha, and more making wine-tasting tours are emerging attraction for visitors.
Motorcycle Tour
For adventure seekers and Bike Riders, Nepal offers an exhilarating bike riding experience in Nepal. Riding through winding mountain roads, you can witness breathtaking landscapes, and picturesque villages, and towns, and encounter warm and welcoming locals. Popular motorcycle routes include the Annapurna Circuit, Upper Mustang, and the Kathmandu Valley. It is important to prioritize safety by wearing protective gear, being mindful of road conditions, and maintaining the motorcycle properly.
Royal Enfield and Crf250 are popular rides available in Nepal for this activity. So, wear your Equipment, Grab the Throttle, rave it, and uplift the Gear to reach the magical adventures through off-roads and trails of the Himalayas.
Discover Upper Mustang with Royal Enfield Motorbike
Spiritual Journeys
Nepal is a spiritual retreat, that attracts those seeking solace and enlightenment. The country is home to several sacred sites and pilgrimage destinations, such as Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Visitors can partake in meditation retreats, engage in spiritual practices, and connect with the profound spirituality that permeates the country. Pashupatinath Temple, Famous Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Pashupatinath has one of the 12 Jyoti Lingams in the world devoted by Hindu Pilgrims. Muktinath Temple Tour with Manakamana is a great Spiritual journey for Hindus and Buddhists exploring the beauty of nature.
Mount Kailash on the other hand is the most pristine location on earth, it is believed that spiritual Kailash is home to the god of all gods, Lord Shiva (Mahadev). Taking this spiritual yatra has to pass through Nepal Border. Nepal provides you with the blessings of Lord Shiva without crossing the Nepal - Tibet Border. From the Limi Valley of rural Himalayan terrain, we can see an inspiring view of Mount Kailash.
Visit Sacred Adobe Mount Kailash with our Spiritual Tour
Mountain Flights and Helicopter Tours
For those seeking a different perspective of the Himalayas without embarking on a trekking route, activities like mountain flights, and helicopter tours provide an excellent alternative. Aerial tours offer panoramic views of Nepal's majestic peaks, including Mount Everest. These tours allow visitors to witness the grandeur of the Himalayas from a unique vantage point and create unforgettable memories.
Mountain Flights are performed on a daily basis during preferable weather. Some Domestic Airlines like Buddha Airlines, Yeti Airlines, and Shree Airlines, regularly operate mountain Flights in the morning. Mountain Flights can be easier with Airport transfers included. Helicopter Tours are a great way to visit the Mountain Base Camp and discover the terrain, glaciers, and shapes of the mountains. Helicopters to Everest, flying directly to Muktinath complex, and Flight to Annapurna Base Camp are popular in these seasons.
Experience Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour
Camping in Rural Nepal
For nature enthusiasts, camping in rural Nepal offers an opportunity to reconnect with the natural world. Nepal's remote areas provide serene camping sites surrounded by lush greenery, pristine rivers, cliffs, gorges, and stunning vistas of hills and Mountains. Camping equipment can be rented or purchased locally, and camping in these picturesque locations allows you to experience the tranquility and beauty of the Himalayan landscape.
Still, Nepal has remote beauty which never got insights of trekkers, most of these routes have a bare minimum of teahouses and some overnight locations need camping as a must. Natural Enthusiasts can take it as an opportunity to experience camping adventure and the authenticity of trekking in the Himalayas. Some routes in Far Western such as Panch Pokhari, Shey Phoksundo, Makalu Barun, and Ruby Valley with surely win your heart.
Wildlife Safaris
Nepal's diverse ecosystem is home to numerous wildlife species, including the majestic Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, Red Panda, and the elusive snow leopard. National parks and conservation areas, there are 12 National Parks, 1 wildlife reserve, and 6 conservation areas. Most of these wildlife preservations go through the trekking trails whereas Terai conservations such as Chitwan National Park and Bardia National Park, offer thrilling wildlife safaris.
Exploring these protected areas on foot, in a jeep, or on elephant back provides a chance to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats. One can visit these attractions with a combination of severe activities. Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour is a great way to experience wildlife with activities like exploring Tharu villages and cultural programs, visiting Elephant Breed Center, and canoeing. You can explore the Bardia National Park with a tour around the lower Land Terai part of Nepal.
Paragliding and Paramotoring
Paragliding and Paramotoring in Nepal provide an unparalleled opportunity to soar high above the stunning landscapes and get a bird's-eye view of the majestic Himalayan peaks. The thrill of flying like a bird, feeling the wind against your face, and witnessing the breathtaking beauty of Nepal from the sky is an experience of a lifetime.
Flying along the quaint villages of Nepal along the natural surrounding is a great alternative to discovering the Hills and Himalayas nearby Vibrant Pokhara cities. One can see spiritual monasteries, giant lakes, and bright green jungles. Take-off points from Pokhara cities are Sarangkot Hills, Khahare, Khapaudi, and Lakeside. The best time for paragliding is from October to May, and the professionals will assist you throughout your gliding.
Ultra Light Flight
For those seeking a unique and exhilarating experience, Ultra Light Flight is a must-try activity in Nepal. These lightweight aircraft offer a thrilling aerial tour, allowing you to witness Nepal's natural beauty from a different perspective. Soar above lush valleys, glistening rivers, and picturesque villages as you enjoy the adrenaline rush and capture stunning views.
Feel the freedom of floating with the wind after leaving the ground. You can relax while rising over the lovely green woods. The breathtaking splendor that comes with the experience of flying can genuinely astound you. It's incredible to be able to see the entire planet beneath you. The Annapurna adventure camp range around Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)Mountain is one of the most magnificent experiences you can have.
The best time to visit is from early autumn to early spring. This thrilling sport will leave you utterly ecstatic. specialists can coach you to make it simpler.
Bungee Jumping
Bungee Jumping in Nepal is not for the faint-hearted. Imagine standing on a suspension bridge, surrounded by towering mountains and deep gorges, as you gather the courage to leap into the void. This adrenaline-pumping activity will give you an unforgettable rush of excitement and a sense of accomplishment.
Fall from the sharpest canyons and experience a free fall unlike any other in the world. One of New Zealand's leading bungee consultants created the bungee jump in Nepal. The pleasant and skilled jumpers here will guarantee that you have a safe freefall as well as a wonderful adventure. This is clearly a cry for adventurers!
The Last Resort and Kushma Bungee Jump take good care of all the bungee activities. This activity costs between NPR 6500 to NPR 7000 per location.
Canyoning
Canyoning is an adventure activity that involves navigating through steep canyons using various techniques such as rappelling, jumping, and sliding. Nepal's rugged terrain and numerous waterfalls make it an ideal destination for canyoning enthusiasts. Traverse through stunning natural canyons, plunge into crystal-clear pools, and immerse yourself in the thrill of this unique adventure.
Explore the deep canyons and have an exciting adventure that you will not find anywhere else. The adventure-filled journey will provide you with some of the finest memories of your life. It is a true mental and body experience that allows you to explore some previously taboo areas.
Canyoneering is best done at the waterpark at the Jalbire Canyon, Bhotekoshi Valley (about 100 km from Kathmandu), Marsyangdi Valley, Kakani ( about 35 km from Kathmandu), and Sisneri (about 30 km from Kathmandu) in November and December. it entails traveling across tough terrain and requires route-finding abilities to enjoy.
Rafting and Kayaking
Nepal's rivers are famous for their exhilarating rapids, making it a mecca for rafting and kayaking enthusiasts. Whether you are a seasoned paddler or a beginner looking for a thrilling water adventure, Nepal offers a variety of river routes suitable for all levels of expertise. Experience the rush of navigating through swirling rapids while enjoying the stunning riverside scenery.
Dash within the chilly rivers as you embark on one of the most exhilarating river rafting and kayaking adventures. The adrenaline surge peaks when you row through serpentine passageways surrounded by rocks and stones. The majority of the rivers in this area flow from the snow-capped Himalayas into the river valley below. Bright green woodlands and azure skies add to the beauty of your river rafting adventure.
Watersports enthusiasts should not miss this- the thrill here is beyond your wildest dreams. Trishuli River rafting, Sun Koshi River, Karnali RiverYeti Airlines and Seti River are naturally gifted for these activities.
Sky Diving
If you are a thrill-seeker looking for the ultimate adventure, skydiving in Nepal will fulfill your wildest dreams. Imagine jumping out of a plane and freefalling through the clear blue sky with the snow-capped Himalayas as your backdrop. This adrenaline-fueled experience will leave you speechless and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Everest Sky Diving, jumping from a height of 23000ft, just below Everest, and landing at the Himalayan dreamlands of Syangboche (12340ft) and Amadablam Basecamp (15000ft) is unquestionably the most thrilling airborne excursion in the world. What else can an adventure seeker dream of in a lifetime?
The adrenaline rush, the eye-feasting view of the lovely Sherpa town, the backdrop of the world's tallest peak, Mt. Everest, along with other equally terrifying sister peaks, and the entire alpine experience. Everest Sky Diving and Pokhara Sky Diving are popular.
Taking a flight from Pokhara and diving to the drop zone which is a large grassy area adjacent to a river that is surrounded by hills. Your entire day will be filled with excitement as you may observe the lifts and leaps of others in addition to your own.
Hot Air Balloon Ride
For a more serene yet equally enchanting experience, embark on a hot air balloon ride in Nepal which started in 2018. Drift gently above the picturesque landscapes, from verdant valleys to quaint villages, and witness the ethereal beauty of Nepal from a tranquil vantage point. The silence and serenity of the balloon ride create a sense of peace and harmony with nature.
Hot air balloon is available in Pokhara, From the time you take off, you are presented with a stunning panorama of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre mountain ranges. The valley also has the serene Phewa Lake, whose crystal-clear waters mirror the surrounding hills. the perfect time to go on a hot air balloon trip is from September to May. when the weather is clear and the skies are blue. The feeling of floating in a basket with nothing between you and the scenery below is truly awe-inspiring.
Visit UNESCO Heritage Sites
Nepal is home to an abundance of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each offering a glimpse into the country's rich cultural and architectural heritage. From the ancient temples and palaces of Kathmandu Valley to the sacred pilgrimage sites in Lumbini, these historical treasures are a testament to Nepal's vibrant past. Immerse yourself in the cultural wonders of Nepal by exploring these magnificent UNESCO sites.
Nepal has four UNESCO heritage sites, two natural sites, and two cultural sites. Kathmandu Valley Tour is one of the best ways to explore handicrafts, cultures, the ancient architecture and learn the history behind the preserved sites. This site includes seven properties and they all are historically, and culturally important for Nepal.
Visiting these heritage sites is the best way to discover everything Nepal offers from Cultural, Spirituality to Adventure.
Meditation & Yoga
Nepal, known as the birthplace of Gautam Buddha and the land of yoga, offers a serene environment for spiritual seekers. Engage in meditation and yoga retreats amidst the tranquility of the Himalayas, where ancient practices are combined with breathtaking natural surroundings. Rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul as you connect with your inner self in this spiritual haven.
Nepal has a motivative history of the yogic and tantric culture. Also being a Hindu and Buddhist majority in the country, the practice is well followed by the divine souls. Tourists can experience meditation and yoga on the trekking routes ie. Poon Hill Yoga Trek, Mardi Himal Yoga Trek, and some also perform Yoga and Meditation in Everest Base Camp. Yoga and meditation can be capitative with Nagarkot Short Hike or Nepal Yoga Home, Osho Tapoban, etc to learn and practice.
Mountain Biking
Nepal's diverse topography, from rugged mountain trails to scenic countryside roads, makes it a haven for mountain biking enthusiasts. Explore hidden valleys, remote villages, and ancient trails as you pedal through the picturesque landscapes. Experience the thrill of downhill descents and the satisfaction of conquering challenging terrains while enjoying the beauty of Nepal's natural wonders.
Nepal has fantastic mountain biking venues and a broad selection of mountain ranges due to the topography's stark variations. Mountain bike activity in Nepal enables you to not only experience the spectacular magnificence of the snow-covered Himalayas but also to spend the morning in the fresh air, surrounded by gorgeous scenery and slopes studded with rich vegetation. Furthermore, experiencing unfamiliarity allows you to discover more about yourself.
The adventure terrain of Nepal is quite famous among Mountain Bikers. There are several trails available for Mountain Biking in Nepal yet, Upper Mustang Mountain Bike Tour, Mountain Biking in Annapurna Circuit, Discovering Kathmandu, and Pokhara in Mountain Bike are some of the famous methods.
Rock Climbing
With its towering cliffs and challenging rock formations, Nepal is a paradise for rock climbing enthusiasts. From beginner-friendly walls to advanced routes for seasoned climbers, Nepal offers a range of options suitable for all skill levels. Test your strength, endurance, and problem-solving skills as you scale the majestic cliffs and immerse yourself in the thrill of rock climbing.
As you ascend the rough hills, beads of sweat develop, but every drop of sweat is worth the excitement and adventure. The nation provides several good rock-climbing opportunities for beginners, intermediate, and advanced climbers. You will enjoy challenging yourself with these rocks in Nepal. The densely growing greenery surrounding embraces you with open arms as you wound your way to the top.
Climbing rocks will make you realize that there will be difficult periods in your life, but it is up to you to figure out how to get through them. Popular rock climbing locations include Nagarjuna and Khumbu, and Rock climbing in Jomsom, Mustang. In Nepal, spring is the best season for such activities.
Heli-Skiing
Nepal's pristine snow-capped peaks offer a unique opportunity for heli-skiing, an adventure that combines the thrill of skiing with the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Himalayas. Board a helicopter and soar to remote mountain ranges where untouched powder snow awaits. Experience the adrenaline rush as you carve your way down the virgin slopes, surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery.
As you slide down the untamed, pure slopes of Nepal, you'll get a mind-blowing panoramic perspective of the Himalayan world. Heli-Skiing is becoming increasingly popular, and those hoping for an exhilarating experience in Nepal will not be dissatisfied. The powdery snow adds to the excitement of exploring the isolated alpine slopes. The magnificent Nepalese Himalayas allow you to experience their grandeur and beauty while skiing here. Skiing enthusiasts, this is an opportunity to put your talents to the ultimate.
Annapurna and Manaslu areas are popular for skiing, Annapurna Base Camp has great terrain for skiing and many independent travelers find Manaslu as the best location for skiing in Nepal. Skiing can also be done in Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Dolpo, and more.
Conclusion
Ultimately, Nepal offers a plethora of activities that cater to diverse interests and preferences. Whether you seek adventure, cultural exploration, spiritual growth, or simply a chance to immerse yourself in nature, Nepal has something for everyone. Engaging in activities such as climbing mountains, trekking, experiencing the vibrant culture, and indulging in adventure sports will create memories that last a lifetime. So pack your bags, embark on a journey to Nepal, and let the Himalayan country captivate you with its unparalleled beauty, warmth, and abundance of unforgettable experiences.
