Kathmandu's Durbar Squares, Boudhanath and Swayambhunath meet Pokhara's lake and Annapurna views, with treks from short Poon Hill hikes to Everest Base Camp. October to November and March to May are best.
Good to know
- Nepal visa on arrival is available for most nationalities; Indian citizens need none.
- Start treks early and acclimatize slowly.
- Carry cash for remote areas; ATMs are limited.
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Places the planner can use
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Rowboat across the lake with reflections of the Annapurna range.
Dawn view of Annapurna and Machapuchare from a hilltop.
Unlimited rice, lentil soup and vegetable curry, a Nepali staple.
Backpacker hub of trekking gear, singing bowls and rooftop cafes.
One of the world's largest stupas, ringed by monasteries and prayer wheels.
Sacred Hindu complex on the Bagmati River with ghats and sadhus.
Hilltop stupa with watchful eyes and views across the Kathmandu valley.
Old royal square of pagoda temples, partly restored after the 2015 earthquake.
Newari art, bronze work and a fine museum in a former palace.
Medieval city of pottery square and woodcarvings, famous for juju dhau curd.
Short 4-5 day trek with sunrise on Dhaulagiri and Annapurna.
Tandem flight above Phewa Lake with the Annapurna range on the horizon; the thermals are best in the morning.