The Nepal Tourism Board, the country’s tourism promotion agency, recommends seven top destinations to visit in Nepal this year—one from each of the seven provinces. Here is a brief introduction to all of them.
Mundum Trek
The Mundum Trek in Koshi Province, eastern Nepal, is a new cultural walking trail. It passes through several indigenous villages and landscapes in the Khotang and Bhojpur districts. The trail ascends to 4,200 meters at the Silchung Peak viewpoint and traverses Kirat settlements. The route begins at Diktel Bazaar, passes through beautiful settlements including Chakhewa, Rawa Dap, Salpa Banjyang, Silchung, and Hanspokhari, and concludes in Bhojpur. While Diktel has several hotels, trekkers are advised to carry tents. The trail offers panoramic views of most of the 8,000-meter peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Kangchenjunga. Spring, from March to May, is particularly recommended for trekking.
Janaki Mandir
Janaki Mandir in Janakpur, Madhesh Province, was constructed in 1874 and represents a fusion of Mughal and local architecture. The temple is a three-story structure with 60 rooms, making it the largest temple in Nepal. Thousands of pilgrims gather here to pay homage to Janaki Mandir (Janaki being another name for Sita, daughter of King Janak). The temple houses an idol of Sita discovered near Ayodhya, the kingdom of Lord Ram. The wedding anniversary of Lord Ram and Sita is celebrated annually in Janakpur during Vivaha Panchami in December. At the southwest corner of Janaki Mandir stands Vivaha Mandap, built at the site where the marriage of Ram and Sita is said to have taken place. Another famous nearby temple is Ram Mandir, which differs from other temples in Janakpur that generally resemble Mughal architecture, as it is built in pagoda style. It houses a female statue said to be of Yogamaya, which has a reputation as one of the most beautiful female statues in Nepal. Other sites of interest include Lakshman Temple, Sankat Mochan Temple, and Hanuman Temple.
Kalinchowk, Kuri Village
Kuri Village, a popular tourist destination approximately 150 km from Kathmandu, is located at an elevation of 3,842 meters in Kalinchowk, Dolakha District, Bagmati Province. In addition to enchanting Himalayan landscapes and spectacular panoramic views, people visit this location to enjoy snow during winter. Kalinchowk primarily receives snowfall from late December, continuing until late February or mid-March. When snow falls, it becomes difficult for jeeps, buses, and cars to reach the summit of Kuri Village. Chains are wrapped around vehicle wheels, and specially modified jeeps driven by experienced drivers are used to transport tourists. Several hotels and restaurants are available in the vicinity. The road to Kuri has also improved progressively over the years.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Gandaki Province offers a picturesque journey to the foothills of Annapurna South at 4,130 meters above sea level. The five-day trek (seven days for slower walkers) allows you to experience rich cultural diversity, typical Nepalese villages, and the flora and fauna nestled at the foot of Annapurna. The distance from Pokhara to Annapurna Base Camp is approximately 81 kilometers. It is one of the shortest and most budget-friendly treks in Nepal. For Nepali citizens, accommodation costs range from $5 to $10 per day. For foreign nationals, total trekking costs range from an average of $800 to $1,500 per person. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek can be undertaken year-round, as each season offers a different trekking experience. The optimal time for trekking depends on weather preferences and what you expect from the trek. However, autumn (September to October) and spring (March to May) are considered the best seasons for trekking, as days are warm, clear, and bright.
Bardiya National Park
Located in the southern Terai belt of Lumbini Province, Bardiya National Park is home to one of the most elusive and majestic animals on Earth—the Royal Bengal Tiger. The park covers 968 square kilometers and is considered one of the most important protected areas in the country. It is the premier destination for those wishing to catch a glimpse of tigers. With a bit of luck and patience, you will have the opportunity to encounter a Bengal tiger. Jungle safaris also provide opportunities to observe Asian elephants and greater one-horned rhinoceros. Rafting trips along the Geruwa River, the eastern channel of the Karnali River, occasionally offer sightings of the rare Ganges River dolphin. Additionally, visitors can enjoy homestays and explore the local Tharu culture. The best viewing period is from mid-September to mid-December and from mid-February to May.
Khaptad National Park
Khaptad National Park in Sudurpashchim Province is a protected area in the far west. It spans four districts—Bajhang, Bajura, Achham, and Doti—with elevations ranging from 1,400 meters to 3,300 meters. The park can be visited year-round. Trekkers are advised to bring tents, food, and other essentials. According to the Nepal Tourism Board, Nepali travelers have recently been visiting Khaptad due to social media influence. Because the remote Khaptad National Park remains an unconventional destination for many travelers, the area remains pristine and unspoiled. Spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) are the best times to visit the park. Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C, providing comfortable trekking conditions. The monsoon begins in June and continues until September, during which roads often become muddy and slippery. Winter from December to February brings snow and cold winds to the park.
Limi Valley
Limi Valley in Humla District, Karnali Province, is an ideal destination for those seeking magnificent natural landscapes. Halji Monastery, built in the 11th century, is a highlight of Limi Valley, where rich Tibetan culture thrives. Limi Valley also features sculptures and mythological architecture. The trek to Gyu Karla at an elevation of 5,150 meters is the greatest attraction of the Limi Valley Trek. This trek also offers spectacular views of Mount Saipal (7,031 m), Mount Bias Rishi, Mount Api, Mount Kanjirowa, and Mount Kanti. Tibetan Himalayan peaks such as sacred Mount Kailash and Gorla Mandanda can also be viewed from Limi Valley. The beautiful view from the summit is Lake Manasarovar in Tibet, located at the foot of Mount Kailash.
