Best places to travel in Nepal are not just about mountains and trekking. From ancient temples and lakes to national parks and bustling city squares, Nepal offers a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and culture. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or thrilling experiences, these destinations will make your journey unforgettable.

📌 Table of Contents

1. Chitwan National Park

2. Ulleri Village

3. Ghorepani & Poon Hill

4. Tikhedhunga

5. Ghandruk Village

6. Nayapul

7. Dhulikhel

8. Maya Devi Temple, Lumbini

9. Pokhara City

10. Ilam Tea Gardens

11. Janakpur

12. Mustang

🐘 1. Chitwan National Park

Located in southern Nepal, Chitwan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its wildlife safaris. It’s one of the best places to see one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tigers, elephants, gharials, and hundreds of bird species.

Things to Do in Chitwan:

• Jeep or canoe safari

• Bird watching

• Tharu cultural dance

• Visit Elephant Breeding Center

📍 Distance from Kathmandu: 150 km (5–6 hours by road, 20 minutes by flight)

🏔 2. Ulleri Village

Ulleri is a traditional Magar village located on the way to Ghorepani. Famous for its steep stone staircase with 3,000+ steps, it challenges trekkers while rewarding them with stunning views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South.

✨ Trekking Highlight: Reaching Ulleri is the first big climb on the Ghorepani–Poon Hill trek, making it a memorable stop.

📍 Distance from Pokhara: 42 km (approx. 2 hours by jeep to Nayapul, then 5–6 hours trek)

🌄 3. Ghorepani & Poon Hill

Ghorepani is a beautiful Gurung village in the Annapurna region. Its main attraction is Poon Hill (3,210m), one of the most popular sunrise viewpoints in Best places to travel in Nepal . From here, trekkers witness Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Nilgiri glowing golden at sunrise.

Why Visit Ghorepani?

• Cultural homestays

• Rhododendron forests

• Jaw-dropping Himalayan views

🌿 4. Tikhedhunga

Tikhedhunga is a charming village in the Annapurna region, often the first night stop for trekkers heading to Ghorepani. Surrounded by waterfalls, green hills, and terraced farms, it’s a refreshing resting point before the climb to Ulleri.

Highlights:

• Suspension bridges & scenic waterfalls

• Overnight stays in cozy teahouses

• Gateway to the famous stone steps of Ulleri

Hiking path- Tikhedhunga

🏡 5. Ghandruk Village

Known as the “Switzerland of Nepal,” Ghandruk is one of the most scenic villages in the Annapurna region. It’s home to the Gurung community, offering rich culture, traditional houses, and stunning Himalayan views.

Things to Do in Ghandruk:

• Visit the Gurung Museum

• Explore local homestays

• Enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna South & Hiunchuli

📍 Distance from Pokhara: 32 km (2–3 hours by jeep, or trekking via Nayapul)

🚶 6. Nayapul

Nayapul is the starting point for many Annapurna treks, including the famous Annapurna Base Camp and Ghorepani–Poon Hill trek.

Why Nayapul is Important:

• Easy road access from Pokhara

• Shops and lodges for last-minute supplies

• Starting point for both short and long treks

📍 Distance from Pokhara: 45 km (2 hours by road)

🏙 7. Dhulikhel

Dhulikhel, located east of Kathmandu, is a peaceful hill town with spectacular views of the Himalayas. It’s also known for its Newari culture, temples, and traditional architecture.

Highlights in Dhulikhel:

• Kali Temple & Namobuddha Monastery

• Traditional Newari houses

• Himalayan sunrise views

📍 Distance from Kathmandu: 30 km (1 hour by road)

🕉 8. Maya Devi Temple, Lumbini

Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Buddha and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The sacred Maya Devi Temple marks the exact spot where Queen Maya Devi gave birth to Siddhartha Gautama.

Things to See in Lumbini:

• Ashokan Pillar

• Monastic Zone with temples from many countries

• Sacred Pond (Puskarini)

📍 Distance from Kathmandu: 270 km (8–9 hours by road, 35 minutes by flight)

🌅 9. Pokhara City

Known as the “City of Lakes”, Pokhara is Nepal’s most popular tourist destination. It offers adventure, relaxation, and stunning Himalayan views.

Top Attractions in Pokhara:

• Phewa Lake boating

• Davis Falls & Gupteshwor Cave

• World Peace Pagoda

• Sarangkot Sunrise

📍 Distance from Kathmandu: 200 km (6–7 hours by road, 25 minutes by flight)

🍃 10. Ilam Tea Gardens

Ilam, in eastern Nepal, is famous for its endless tea gardens, rolling hills, and cool climate. It’s a perfect getaway for peace and relaxation.

Must-Visit in Ilam:

• Kanyam Tea Gardens

• Antu Danda sunrise point

• Mai Pokhari Lake

📍 Distance from Kathmandu: 600 km (45 minutes by flight to Bhadrapur, then 3–4 hours by road)

🛕 11. Janakpur

Janakpur is a historic city linked with the epic Ramayana. It’s the birthplace of Goddess Sita and home to the magnificent Janaki Mandir.

Why Visit Janakpur?

• Explore Janaki Mandir’s Mithila architecture

• Learn about Mithila culture and paintings

• Attend the grand Ram–Sita Vivah festival

📍 Distance from Kathmandu: 225 km (7–8 hours by road, 40 minutes by flight)

🏜 12. Mustang

Known as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” Mustang is a land of mystery, adventure, and Tibetan culture.

Lower Mustang Highlights:

• Muktinath Temple (sacred to Hindus & Buddhists)

• Kali Gandaki Gorge (world’s deepest gorge)

• Apple orchards in Marpha

Upper Mustang Highlights:

• Lo Manthang, the walled city

• Ancient caves & monasteries

• Desert-like landscapes unlike anywhere in Nepal

📍 Distance from Pokhara: 160 km to Jomsom (30 min by flight or 8–9 hours by road)

UNESCO has listed several sites in Nepal as World Heritage, and you can explore the full list on UNESCO’s website. From the jungles of Chitwan to the mystical landscapes of Mustang, these are the 12 Best places to travel in Nepal . Each destination has its own charm, whether it’s cultural, natural, or adventurous.If you love peaceful escapes, you might also enjoy reading our guide on Taudaha Lake in Kathmandu, a hidden gem perfect for birdwatching and relaxation

👉 So, pack your bags and start your journey through Nepal—the land of mountains, culture, and spirituality! Best places to travel in Nepal.