Nepal is best-known for the Himalayas, Mount Everest, and its amazing treks. Eight of the world’s 14 eight thousand meter peaks are located in Nepal, creating world-class mountaineering and trekking opportunities. But Nepal has much more to offer than just its mountains. Its capital, Kathmandu, is a bustling city with seven Unesco World Heritage sites including Boudhanath, the world largest Buddhist stupa. The Nepalese lowlands in the south are subtropical and are home to tigers, elephants, and rhinos. The people of Nepal are among the warmest and most welcoming in the world.
Most people visit Nepal in spring and autumn, but in recent years winter and summer have become popular seasons as well. Trekking in the Himalaya is a life-changing experience for many travelers. Longer treks include the Everest Base Camp Trek, the Annapurna Circuit, and the newly popular Manaslu Circuit, while shorter treks such as the Ghorepani Trek to Poon Hill offer experiences travelers who want to experience the mountains at lower elevations. Rafting the rivers of Nepal is also world-class, and so is mountain biking on Nepal's countless trails and paragliding above the Phewa Lake in Pokhara.
Experience the magic of Kathmandu and the Himalaya on this 10-day Nepal tour. Begin in Kathmandu, home to crowded bazaars and golden temples, before flying into the frosted mountains. Here, you'll embark upon a six-day scenic trek to Ama Dablam's base camp, passing through Himayalan towns surrounded by the world's most incredible peaks. Top it off with a scenic helicopter flight over Everest Base Camp.
Discover a microcosm of cultures and some of the world's most breathtaking landscapes on this 8-day exploration of Nepal's Kathmandu and Pokhara Valleys. With a laid-back blend of popular highlights and offbeat experiences, it's a perfect itinerary for first-timers to the country. Explore the temples and shrines of Kathmandu, take in postcard-worthy Himalaya views from the peaceful mountain town of Nagarkot, and embrace your adventurous side with some scenic paragliding in Pokhara.
Every August, apprentice shamans and pilgrims trek to Nepal's sacred lakes for a night of prayer and dance under the full moon. Join them on this 8-day, once-in-a-lifetime experience as you hike through breathtaking mountain scenery to reach the shores of Lake Gosainkunda, located deep in the mountains north of Kathmandu.
See the world's third-largest peak up close on this challenging 23-day trek along Nepal's famous Kanchenjunga Circuit. Spend some time exploring the capital of Kathmandu, then make your way deep into the soaring Himalaya to set off on foot from Taplejung. With few crowds and endless spectacular scenery, you'll trek between rustic teahouses as you make your way to the North and South Kanchenjunga Base Camps—reaching a dizzying altitude of 16,863 feet (5,140 m).
Short on time but packed with spectacular scenery, this 4-day itinerary whisks you away to Nepal's scenic Pokhara Valley. Embark on a series of gentle daily treks between traditional mountain villages, set against the backdrop of the towering Himalaya. Perfect for inexperienced hikers, families, or just those looking for a less strenuous trekking experience, you'll experience all the wonders of this region at a relaxed pace.
Ideal for families or those new to trekking, this scenic 4-day adventure is packed with incredible mountain views and gentle hikes between Nepali villages. Starting in the beautiful town of Pokhara, you'll set out in style with a boat trip across Lake Phewa. Then it's off into the lush landscapes of the Annapurna region, where the towering Himalaya provide a breathtaking backdrop to daily treks, culminating in a sunrise climb to the 8,202-foot (2,500 m) summit of Panchase.
This 8-day adventure combines a moderately challenging trek at lower altitudes with incredible views across the Himalaya. Make your way through a landscape of snowcapped peaks, mountain villages, and Buddhist monasteries to reach one of Nepal's best-kept secrets—Pikey Peak. From its summit, you'll look out over a breathtaking panorama, including the best views of Mount Everest in the country.
Escape to a mountain paradise on this luxurious, 5-day trek through Nepal's Annapurna region. Perfect for inexperienced hikers or families, this route stays at a lower altitude without sacrificing the panoramic Himalaya views. By day you'll embark on a series of short, scenic hikes between traditional villages, while nights are spent in style at some of Nepal's loveliest boutique lodges.
Tackle Nepal's acclaimed Three Passes Trek on this challenging 22-day adventure. From Kathmandu, you'll fly into the dramatic mountain scenery of Lukla and set out on foot through the mighty Himalaya, traversing dizzying passes and remote valleys to reach the doorstep of Mount Everest. Rest days en route will help you acclimate to the altitude, as you spend your free time exploring secluded mountain villages and learning about the local Sherpa culture.
This 20-day itinerary guides you along the legendary Three Passes route—one of Nepal's most challenging and spectacular treks. Traverse a rugged landscape of steep passes, glaciers, and the world's highest freshwater lakes to reach the doorstep of Mount Everest. With downtime to rest and acclimatize to the altitude, you'll gain insight into the rich Sherpa culture with visits to local villages and isolated monasteries.
Brimming with spectacular scenery, this 10-day trekking itinerary introduces you to Nepal's Langtang Valley—and helps support the local community after the 2015 earthquake. Starting from the small village of Syabrubesi, you'll climb through lush bamboo and rhododendron forests to reach the Tibetan Buddhist monastery of Kyangjin Gompa. If you're feeling adventurous, hike up nearby Kyangjin Ri for 360-degree views of the Langtang Himal mountains before starting the descent back to Kathmandu.
This two-week tour of Bhutan and Nepal introduces you to the fascinating cultures and beautiful landscapes of two different countries. Start in Kathmandu, shopping in the vibrant bazaar, then explore the countryside around Pokhara. You'll take in striking views of the snow-capped Himalayas while flying to Bhutan. Then enjoy several days of exploring Bhutan's quiet mountain trails and impressive fortresses, ending with a hike to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery.
Trekking through the barren beauty of the Upper Mustang—one of the most remote regions of the Himalaya—is a highlight of this 15-day itinerary, which culminates in the annual Tiji festival in Lo Manthang. During this colorful, three-day Buddhist celebration, you'll witness masked and costumed dances and ancient music at the most important local religious festival of the year. En route, you'll take in the natural and cultural attractions of Kathmandu and Pokhara, Nepal's two most lively cities.
This unique wildlife experience takes you all the way across the southern Terai region of Nepal. Starting from Chitwan National Park, you'll enjoy a special elephant encounter and wildlife safaris, seeing the endangered one-horned rhinoceros. Moving west, you'll explore the remote Bardia National Park in far western Nepal, in search of the elusive Bengal tiger. In both places, you'll stay in the elegant Tiger Tops properties.
The sacred lakes at Gosainkunda, the highest of which is 14,107 feet (4300 m.), are among the most spectacular sights near Kathmandu. Just north of the capital, these lakes are accessible via a reasonably good road to the trailhead. On this nine-day tour you'll travel overland from Kathmandu to Dhunche, then trek steadily upwards to the sparkling blue lakes surrounded by mountains and expansive views.
The Chepang Hill Trek is an off-the-beaten-path route that takes you through indigenous Chepang communities of Nepal. These people have their own distinct language, and lead a nomadic life. Enjoy views of Rolwaling, Gauri Shankar, Langtang, Manaslu, the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri and more while on this easy trek. The trek will be followed by a relaxing jungle safari in Chitwan National Park, where you'll spot all kinds of wild animals.
Maddeningly chaotic but never dull, Kathmandu is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and religions. Not merely a jumping-off point for a Himalaya trek, it's also a worthwhile destination in its own right, with a legacy of myths and legends seen in the historic pagodas lining its dusty streets. Even if you're here for just one day you can profit from the highlights of this uniquely beautiful metropolis.
With thirteen days in Nepal, you can spend time in a few destinations to get a taste of what the country has to offer or you can commit to one particular region, which you can explore by foot, raft, or safari (and in some cases, all three). For trekking, consider getting away from crowds: Pikey Peak, the Khopra Ridge, and the Dolpo region are off-the-beaten-path, offer incredible views, and opportunities to learn about local villages and their heritages. You can also travel through Nepal in style; stay in luxury accommodations after a day of trekking, take a helicopter tour of the Himalaya, or sleep in a deluxe resort in a jungle, where you’ll be lulled to sleep by the trumpets of the property’s resident elephants. Read on for some inspiring ideas!
This epic yet moderate trek takes you through the vast Dolpo area of Western Nepal. You'll pass through Himalayan forests, traditional villages, and past rushing waterfalls. Along the way, you'll see wildlife, including musk deer, great Tibetan sheep, Himalayan tahr, and perhaps even the rare and elusive snow leopard. The highlight is Lake Phoksundo, considered a natural treasure in Nepal and sacred to Buddhists and followers of the Bonpo religion.
With eleven days in Nepal, you can devote your time entirely to exploring the country on a trek, split your itinerary between trekking and sightseeing, or skip the trail entirely and discover historical cities, beautiful landscapes, and cultural landmarks. Customize one of the following itineraries depending on what you're most interested in.
Venture out on a timeless journey through the Kingdom of Lo, an off-the-beaten-path region that was a hidden Tibetan Buddhist enclave forbidden to foreigners until recently. From the trail, expect sights like sculpted canyons, deep gorges, ancient fortresses, and mysterious cave hermitages. You'll also see the Tibetan Buddhist gompas and soaring snow-peaks that characterize this region.
This offbeat trip plan is perfect for the explorer looking to combine a trek with cultural discovery, a jungle safari, and an epic helicopter tour of the Himalaya. Get to know the traditions and history of the Kathmandu Valley, then hike through the gorgeous Annapurna region and summit Pikey Peak, where you'll enjoy a spectacular view that Edmund Hillary claimed as his favorite of Everest. Trade the trail for the jungles with a safari in Chitwan National Park, then end your trip on a high note with areal views of the Himalaya on a flight above the world's tallest peaks.
This high-altitude trek through Sherpa country brings you to the base of the world's tallest peak. You'll pass hilltop monasteries, Himalayan market towns, and craggy peaks as you follow in the footsteps of famous mountaineers — eventually making your way to the iconic starting point for all Everest expeditions. Begin and end in Kathmandu, and return in style via a helicopter ride.
With eight days in Nepal, you can undertake a short great trek or split your itinerary up into multiple regions. You could explore Nepal’s two biggest cities and add in a very short trek, or you could hit a trio of the nation’s most beloved regions (no hiking necessary). If you’re feeling adventurous, head off-the-beaten-track for a week of adventure: trekking, camping, mountain biking, river rafting, and even bungee jumping. Or head straight for the jungles of Chitwan National Park for some quality time with the country’s wildlife.
With nine days in Nepal, you'll have a couple of days to explore Kathmandu before heading off for a trek or multi-sport adventure (think mountain biking, rafting, or even bungee jumping). You can also consider a relaxing sightseeing tour of Nepal’s cultural highlights or discover Everest in luxury; you’ll fly by helicopter to various villages, then spend your days hiking, and your evenings unwinding in deluxe accommodations with some of the world’s most incredible views. These unique itineraries are sure to inspire your adventure.
Also known as the Khopra Ridge Trek, this moderate, off-the-beaten-path adventure is a peaceful alternative to more popular treks in the lower Annapurna region. You'll climb your way through local villages, terraced farmland, and dense oak, pine, and rhododendron forests to face-to-face views of the snow-capped Annapurnas. Plus, you have the option for a challenging but rewarding day hike to Kaire, a sacred lake that Hindus believe will help you achieve Nirvana.
This unique wildlife experience takes you all the way across the Southern Terai region of Nepal. Starting from Chitwan National Park, for a special elephant encounter and safaris to see the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, you'll move west to explore the remote Bardia National Park in search of the elusive Bengal Tiger. En route, you'll also spend some time in spiritual Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha.
This ten-day tour is a great option if you're short on time yet keen to see the Everest region. You'll spend your nights in a luxury Himalayan lodge and your days either trekking or flying through the Everest region by helicopter. The highlight of the trek, Kongde, is a panoramic ridgeline perched about the Everest region that few trekkers get to visit.
With twelve days in Nepal, you can tour a wide swath of the country or head out on a long, epic trek. If you’re interested in sightseeing, you can visit Nepal’s mountains, rivers, and jungles at a relaxed pace, or you can take an adventurous approach (think mountain biking, trekking, rafting, or even paragliding) and explore on one region, like the Annapurnas. Travelers interested in trekking also have a variety of options when it comes to time on the trail: visit iconic circuits, head off-the-beaten-path, stay in the homes of local villagers, or trade teahouses for luxurious accommodations.
This luxury trek takes you through the Khumbu region of Nepal, bringing you to the foot of the world’s highest mountains. Throughout the trek, you will have great views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam, as well as great glaciers, snowfields, and ridges. At the end of each day, you'll retire to luxury accommodations, where you can enjoy a hot shower, sink into a cozy bed, and dine with phenomenal views of the Himalaya just beyond. Along the way, you'll also learn the history and traditions of the Kathmandu Valley, experience the culture of amazing Sherpa villages, and have the opportunity to visit famous Buddhist monasteries.
Experience all that Nepal has to offer in this luxury trip that combines the thrill of trekking the Himalaya, going on exotic jungle safaris (by jeep and by boat), and exploring both city centers and rural life... all in style. This itinerary combines a 4-day trek through the Annapurna region with time to explore Kathmandu, the lakeside city of Pokhara, as well as a stint in the jungle, where you'll stay in an elephant camp. Spend your days adventuring and your nights relaxing in luxe accommodations, as you enjoy sweeping vistas and stellar hospitality.
Sir Edmund Hillary claimed that the view of the lower Everest region from Pikey Peak is the best in all of Nepal, and we're inclined to agree. This trek has the advantage of being slightly farther away from the big peaks, meaning views from the trail encompass much more of the Himalaya. You'll also visit Thupten Choling Monastery, where you can meditate with the resident nuns and monks. Enjoy the extraordinary scenery, get acquainted with Sherpa culture, and explore Kathmandu on this gorgeous route.
Also known as the Khopra Ridge, this moderate, off-the-beaten-track adventure is a peaceful alternative to more popular treks in the region. For nine days you'll climb your way through local villages, terraced farmland, and dense bamboo, oak, pine, and rhododendron forests with rewarding vistas of snow-capped Annapurnas. There are plenty of chances to observe and participate in traditional Nepali lifestyle rituals, including staying in teahouses and taking a day-hike to Kaire, a sacred lake that Hindus believe will help you achieve Nirvana.
This action-packed and adventure-filled trip will keep you on the move and get your heart rate pumping! Explore Nepal by mountain bike, river raft, and trekking trail. You'll hike through a beloved route in the Annapurnas, but will veer off-the-beaten-path for a unique mountain experience, all the while taking in incredible panoramas of extraordinary scenery.
This deluxe trek is great option if you're short on time yet keen to see the Everest region — and do so in style! You'll spend your nights relaxing in a beautiful, luxury Himalayan lodge and your days either trekking or flying through the Everest region by helicopter. The highlight of the trek is Kongde, a village perched high on a ridgeline with incredible panoramic views that few trekkers get to see.
This is a there-and-back trek to the awe-inspiring Annapurna Sanctuary, Nepal’s second most popular trek after Everest Base Camp. From Annapurna Base Camp (12,795 feet / 3,900 m), you'll wake up to truly once-in-a-lifetime views. The trek begins at Phedi, after a short drive from Pokhara, and passes through Gurung villages, rhododendron forests, and stunning river valleys set against the backdrop of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks.
This trip connects the three main regions of Nepal and moves at a relaxed yet steady pace to help you get the most out of your time. You'll go from the bazaars and temples of Kathmandu to traditional villages, and then onto Pokhara and Phewa Lake, after which you'll take a short trek in the Annapurna foothills with unforgettable views of the Himalaya. Round out your journey in Chitwan National Park, where you'll see elephants and other wildlife in their natural habitat, before heading back to Kathmandu.
This trek is all about the views! In a short amount of time, you'll visit two of the best viewpoints south of the Annapurna range. The trek combines the very popular Ghorepani and Poon Hill loop with an off-the-beaten-path experience going up to the amazing Muldai Peak. Going off-the-beaten-path also means staying for one night in rustic accommodations — and the teahouse at Dobato certainly has its own charm.
Experience the stark, barren landscapes of Lower Mustang, which are dotted with Tibetan Buddhist cultural attractions. Altitudes on this trek are not too high, and flying between Pokhara and Jomsom speeds up the journey, making this an ideal trip for trekkers who don’t have much time, or who are interested in an easier and shorter route. In addition to three days on the trail, you'll spend time in the lakeside city of Pokhara and will day trip to Muktinath to visit a sacred shrine.
Enjoy a stunning trek away from the crowds with this moderate route, which includes time in city centers and a chance to discover traditional rural life and customs in the Annapurna region. This trail takes you off-the-beaten-path, with highlights like summitting the less-visited Muldai Peak, where you'll enjoy a spectacular panorama of the Himalaya at dawn (and dusk, too, if you like!). If you're feeling up for it, opt for the day hike to Kaire Lake: Hindus believe that dipping into the water here will help you achieve Nirvana. You'll also bookend your trek in Nepal's buzzing capital, Kathmandu, and the lakeside city of Pokhara, home to the stunning Phewa Lake.
This short, action-packed itinerary gives you a taste of the best outdoor adventure activities in Nepal. From mountain biking in the hills and trekking in the mountains to rafting along white-water rivers and paragliding above Pokhara, this itinerary packs all this adventure into six fun days.
The Newars are one of Nepal's many ethnic groups, and are considered to be the indigenous inhabitants of the Kathmandu Valley. On this culturally rich seven-day tour you'll experience the best of Newari culture, architecture, food, festivals, and more. Newari culture can be found in Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur, the three ancient kingdoms of the valley, which you'll get to know well during this enriching tour.
Less trodden than other Nepal teahouse treks, Pikey Peak is the newly opened destination in the Solukhumbu Region and offers some of the best sunrise and sunset views of Everest, Makalu, and Annapurna. This moderate route passes through beautiful Sherpa settlements with a visit to the 19th-century Buddhist Monastery of Thupten Chholing. Good to know: In July and August, locals hold different cleansing rituals, celebrations, and festivals open to the public.
Get up close with some of the world’s highest peaks on this moderate trek in the Annapurna Region. This adventure, including a 5-day trek, is a great trip for first-time visitors to Nepal. You'll follow ancient trails that connect local communities as you pass through blooming rhododendron forests and rice paddies, with frequent sightings of snow-covered mountains. At night, sleep in comfortable teahouses located in small villages along the route.
See the best of Nepal's Golden Triangle on this relaxed itinerary that takes you from the streets and shrines of Kathmandu to the lakeside bliss of Pokhara and the wilds of Chitwan National Park. You'll have lots of time to explore Nepal's capital and the gorgeous sacred sites around it. Later, relax by Phewa Lake, gazing up at the incredible views of the Annapurnas. Cap off your trip with a jeep game drive or river safari, meeting a host of Nepalese creatures and possibly spotting a Bengal Tiger along the way!
From the top of Pikey Peak in the lower Everest region, enjoy one of the best views in Nepal. A bold statement, indeed, but Edmund Hillary himself claimed it his favorite view of Everest. This trek will take you through a variety of terrain and through villages where you'll stay overnight in local teahouses. You will also have time to explore the eclectic bustle of Kathmandu and learn about the rich traditions of the Newar people.
With six days in Nepal, most travelers choose between a week of sightseeing in the Kathmandu and Pokhara valleys, a short and rewarding trek in the Himalayan foothills, or a curiosity-driven adventure in one specific region. If wildlife calls to you, venture into the remote west for an off-the-beaten-path safari; if culture is what you're after, consider a village-to-village hike. Read on for six unique itineraries that are guaranteed to inspire.
Although Nepal is perhaps better known for its extremely high mountains, it is actually a very geographically and topographically diverse country. The plains bordering India, the Terai, are home to thick jungles and extensive wildlife, which are a surprise and highlight for many travelers. Visitors to the Terai shouldn't miss the Chitwan National Park, which has run a very successful one-horned rhinoceros breeding program. You're all but guaranteed to spot one of these incredible animals, as well as other wildlife and birds, in Chitwan. On this tour you'll have time to explore the highlights of Chitwan while staying in some luxurious and unique accommodation.
Experience the diversity of Nepal with this golden triangle of Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan National Park. Begin with sightseeing in Kathmandu, followed by a visit to Pokhara and villages in the stunning Annapurna region. From there, head to your riverside jungle resort in Chitwan. Spending some time on safari, you'll have a great chance of seeing rhino, various types of monkeys and deer—and perhaps even an elusive tiger.
See another side of Nepal with this five-day itinerary that focuses on the grasslands and jungle of Chitwan National Park. Start with sightseeing in Kathmandu before two days of safari—you'll have the chance to see rhino, various types of monkeys, and perhaps even the elusive Royal Bengal tiger. During your stay in the park, you'll spend your evenings in a riverside, air-conditioned bungalow in the jungle.
