Often thought of as trekking paradise, Nepal is a stunning country and a must see on your next visit to Asia. Nepal offers a huge range of activities, some unexpected. While the earthquake in 2015 did damage parts of Nepal and the Kathmandu Valley, it is mostly being restored and doesn’t take from any of its natural beauty. The people who don’t have Nepal at the top of their bucket list are really missing out.
Immersing myself in the rich culture, trekking through the Himalayas, and spotting rhinos in the jungle are just a few of my highlights from the tiny landlocked country in Asia I called home for 6 weeks.
Here are the ultimate 10 reasons you MUST visit Nepal:
1- Diversity
Nepal is a small country packed with all types of culture, food, and landscape. There are over 100 languages spoken and over 100 castes and ethnic groups. Even in just the capital city (Kathmandu) you will find yourself marveling at the great diversity. There are both Hindus and Buddhists in Nepal and this diversity is most seen in the Kathmandu Valley. The landscape and flora and fauna vary too. Of course there are the mountains, but you may also find yourself spotting rhinos in the jungle.
2- Relatively cheap
Nepal can be a pretty cheap destination for budget travellers. A meal can consist of momos for around $1 and trekking tea houses for as low as $3 per night. That’s if you’re really trying to save money. Otherwise, it’s easy to not spend much. Even a trek could cost just $20 a day for a guide. No other country has prices with as good of value as Nepal, guaranteed.
3- Best trekking and mountain views
Trekking in Nepal is usually a highlight for most travelers visiting Nepal. Stay at the cute tea houses along the way and enjoy phenomenal views. On a good day, you may even see some great views from Kathmandu! Head up to Pokhara for views of the lake with mountains as the backdrop. And if you really want the best views, consider taking a helicopter ride over Mt. Everest. (Yes, this is expensive!)
Did you know? Nepal houses 8 of the 10 tallest peaks in the world! That’s right, not just Mt. Everest! Also Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu and Annapurna!
4- Good food
Nepalese food is pretty similar to Indian food, but it has its own tastes. Certain places like Kathmandu also have grown accustomed to some Tibetan food like Thukpa and Laphing. Momos and Dal bhat are definitely the most famous Nepalese foods, but the country has a lot more to offer. From curries and roti to buffalo chili, Nepalese food will truly delight your taste buds.
5- Small and easy to get around
Being a small country in size comes with many benefits. One of them being the ease to get around. The only international airport is located in Kathmandu so that is a good base and place to start. From there drives can take around 1 to 5 hours to the main attractions of Nepal.
6- Safe
If you need 1 last push to visit Nepal, it should be the fact that it is safe. Of course, like any other place, you must take precautions and use common sense. But in general crime risk is pretty low and the people are so welcoming, you’ll feel at home immediately with no worries.
7- Cultural and historical
If you’re looking for rich culture, Nepal is the best place to visit. The Newari and Tharu ethnic groups, Hinduism and Buddhism. The tiny country is FULL of diverse and amazing culture. Kathmandu is known as the city of temples and you’ll see why if you visit. Wander down the backstreets and find yourself in hidden courtyards of temples. In some places in Nepal it feels like you’re literally in history!
8- Adrenaline packed activities
Adrenaline Junkies, Nepal would be your wonderland! Because of the abundance of rivers and water, rafting has become pretty popular in Nepal and if you’re in for a serious adventure why not try it yourself! Or if that’s not enough, try riding a hot air balloon, paragliding or bungee jumping. You won’t be disappointed!
9- So many UNESCO World Heritage sites
In Kathmandu alone there are currently 7 UNESCO World Heritage sites! The birthplace of Buddha (Lumbini) is also counted as one. There are 2 more, one in the mountains and one in the plains. Sagarmatha National park is home to Mt. Everest, and Chitwan National park houses all sorts of wildlife like rhinos, tigers, and over 500 species of birds. So if visiting UNESCO sites is your thing, Nepal is a must see.
10- Kind people
Last but not least, the Nepalese people themselves really push the country over the top. There are many customs that may seem rude or weird at first, but overall the people of Nepal are truly welcoming and kind. Take their most common greeting- Namaste. It literally means “the divine in me bows to the divine in you”
Read more: What to do in Kathmandu + 3 day itinerary
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