Nestled within the heart of Nepal, Kathmandu is a city of captivating contrasts, where ancient temples and bustling markets coexist amidst breathtaking natural wonders. While the city is renowned for its cultural heritage, it also hides a treasure trove of natural beauty that beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts. From serene gardens to lush hillsides, Kathmandu boasts a myriad of enchanting natural escapes that offer a refreshing respite from the urban bustle.
In this blog, we embark on a journey to uncover Kathmandu’s top 10 must-visit natural places, each a testament to the city’s remarkable blend of urban vibrancy and tranquil landscapes. So, lace up your hiking boots and join us as we delve into the serene havens beyond the city’s bustling streets.
1- Kathmandu Valley
Kathmandu Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Nepal. The valley is home to three major cities: Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur. The valley is also home to several historical and cultural sites, including temples, monasteries, and palaces.
The Kathmandu Valley is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the historical and cultural sites or enjoy the stunning scenery. The valley is also a popular destination for hiking, trekking, and mountaineering.
Here are some of the top things to do in Kathmandu Valley:
- Visit the Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)
- Visit the Boudhanath Stupa
- Visit the Pashupatinath Temple
- Visit the Durbar Square in Kathmandu
- Visit the Patan Durbar Square
- Visit the Bhaktapur Durbar Square
- Hike to Nagarkot for stunning views of the Himalayas
- Visit the Chitwan National Park to see rhinos, elephants, and tigers
- Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Nepali dishes
- Enjoy the nightlife in Thamel
Kathmandu Valley is a beautiful and vibrant place to visit. There is something for everyone in the valley, whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure.
2- Phewa Lake
Phewa Lake is a glacial lake located in the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal. It is one of the largest lakes in the valley and is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and bird watching.
The lake is about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) long and 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) wide. It is surrounded by mountains, including the Annapurna and Ganesh Himal ranges. The lake is also home to several temples and monasteries, including the Tal Barahi Temple.
Phewa Lake is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. Visitors can also go boating, fishing, and bird watching. The lake is also a popular destination for pilgrims and Hindus.
Here are some of the things you can do at Phewa Lake:
- Boating: You can rent a boat to explore the lake in many places.
- Fishing: The lake is home to various fish, including trout, carp, and catfish.
- Bird watching: Several birds can be seen on the lake, including ducks, geese, and herons.
- Trekking: Some trekking trails start from Phewa Lake.
- Visit Tal Barahi Temple: This temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Tal Barahi.
- Visit the villages around the lake: Some villages are worth visiting.
- Relax: Relax and enjoy the scenery.
3- Gosaikunda Lake
Gosaikunda Lake is a glacial lake located in the Himalayas in Nepal. It is one of Nepal’s most sacred lakes and a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists.
The lake is located at an altitude of 4,380 meters (14,370 feet) and is surrounded by mountains, including the Langtang Himal and Manaslu ranges. The lake is said to be home to the Hindu god Vishnu and is a popular destination for pilgrims during the Janai Purnima festival.
Gosaikunda Lake is a beautiful and serene place to visit. The lake is clear and blue and the surrounding mountains are snow-capped. Visitors can hike to the lake or take a jeep ride. There are several temples and monasteries around the lake.
4- Ganesh Himal
Ganesh Himal is a mountain range in Nepal. It is part of the Mahalangur Himal sub-range of the Himalayas. The range is named after the Hindu god Ganesha. The highest peak in the Ganesh Himal is Yangra (7,422 m or 24,344 ft).
Geography
The Ganesh Himal is located in the north-central part of Nepal. The Manaslu Himal borders it to the north, the Langtang Himal to the east, and the Gorkha Himal to the south. The range extends about 100 kilometers (62 mi) from east to west.
The Ganesh Himal is a relatively young mountain range. It was formed about 50 million years ago when the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates collided. The range is still active and several earthquakes have occurred in the region in recent years.
Glaciers
The Ganesh Himal is home to several glaciers, including the Ganesh Himal Glacier, the Langtang Glacier, and the Trisuli Glacier. These glaciers provide a vital source of water for the people of Nepal.
Biodiversity
The Ganesh Himal is home to a variety of plants and animals. The range’s lower slopes are covered in oak, pine, and rhododendron forests. The higher slopes are home to alpine meadows and glaciers. The range is also home to several animals, including snow leopards, bears, and Himalayan tahr.
Trekking
The Ganesh Himal is a popular destination for trekking. Several trails lead through the range, including the Ganesh Himal Base Camp Trek and the Langtang Valley Trek. The treks offer stunning views of the Himalayas and the opportunity to see various wildlife.
Climbing
The Ganesh Himal is also a popular destination for climbing. The range has several high peaks over 7,000 meters (23,000 ft), including Yangra, Melungtse, and Ganesh Himal I. Climbing in the Ganesh Himal is challenging but rewarding.
5- Langtang National Park
Langtang National Park is a national park in Nepal. It is located in the north-central part of the country, about 160 kilometers (100 mi) north of Kathmandu. The park was established in 1976 and covers an area of 1,710 square kilometers (660 sq mi).
Geography
Langtang National Park is a mountainous region. It is home to several peaks, including Langtang Lirung (7,245 m or 23,760 ft), Langtang II (7,234 m or 23,739 ft), and Dorje Lakpa (6,966 m or 22,854 ft). The park also has several glaciers, including the Langtang Glacier, the Gosainkund Glacier, and the Trisuli Glacier.
Biodiversity
Langtang National Park is home to a variety of plants and animals. The lower slopes of the park are covered in forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron. The higher slopes are home to alpine meadows and glaciers. The park is also home to several animals, including snow leopards, bears, Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and red pandas.
Trekking
Langtang National Park is a popular destination for trekking. Several trails lead through the park, including the Langtang Valley Trek, the Gosainkund Trek, and the Helambu Trek. The treks offer stunning views of the Himalayas and the opportunity to see various wildlife.
Climbing
Langtang National Park is also a popular destination for climbing. The park has several peaks over 7,000 meters (23,000 ft) high, including Langtang Lirung, Langtang II, and Dorje Lakpa. Climbing in Langtang National Park is challenging but rewarding.
6- Chitwan National Park
Chitwan National Park is a renowned and well-preserved national park in the Terai region of southern Nepal. It is one of the country’s most popular and biodiverse protected areas and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984. The park covers an area of approximately 932 square kilometers (360 square miles) and is known for its rich wildlife, diverse ecosystems, and conservation efforts.
Key features and attractions of Chitwan National Park include:
- Biodiversity: Chitwan National Park is home to various flora and fauna. It encompasses subtropical and tropical ecosystems, including grasslands, forests, wetlands, and riverine habitats. The park is famous for its diverse wildlife, including endangered species such as the Bengal tiger, Indian rhinoceros, gharial crocodile, and several species of deer and birds.
- Bengal Tigers: The park is one of the last remaining habitats for the critically endangered Bengal tiger. While spotting a tiger in the wild is challenging, Chitwan offers opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to go on jungle safaris and increase their chances of witnessing these majestic creatures.
- One-Horned Rhinoceros: Chitwan is renowned for its successful conservation efforts to protect the greater one-horned rhinoceros, also known as the Indian rhinoceros. The park is home to a significant population of these magnificent creatures.
- Jungle Safaris: Visitors to Chitwan National Park can enjoy various activities, including guided jungle safaris, jeep tours, and elephant-back rides. These activities provide opportunities to observe wildlife, including deer, monkeys, reptiles, and various bird species.
- Tharu Culture: The Tharu people are an indigenous ethnic group who have lived in the region for generations. Visitors can experience Tharu culture through traditional dances, local cuisine, and interactions with community members.
- Birdwatching: Chitwan is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 500 species of birds recorded in the park. The diverse habitats attract a wide range of avian species, making it a haven for bird enthusiasts.
- Nature Walks and Canoe Rides: Guided nature walks and canoe rides along the rivers and wetlands provide opportunities to explore the park’s natural beauty and observe wildlife in their natural habitats.
- Accommodation: The park offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly guesthouses, ensuring that visitors can choose accommodations that suit their preferences and budget.
7- Nagarkot
Nagarkot is a hill station in Nepal, about 32 kilometers (20 mi) east of Kathmandu. It is a popular destination for hiking, paragliding, and sightseeing. Nagarkot is known for its stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, Annapurna, and Manaslu.
History
Nagharkot was founded in the 14th century by King Harihar Singha. The town was originally called “Nagarkot Durbar” or “the fort of the city.” Nagarkot was an important strategic location during the Malla period (1200-1768). The Mughals and the Gorkhas frequently attacked the town.
Geography
Nagharkot is located at an altitude of 2,195 meters (7,200 ft) above sea level. Hills and mountains surround the town. The climate in Nagarkot is temperate. The summers are warm and the winters are cold.
Things to do in Nagarkot
- Hiking: Nagarkot is a popular destination for hiking. Several trails lead to different viewpoints, including the Nagarkot Viewpoint, the Sundarijal Viewpoint, and the Chandragiri Viewpoint.
- Paragliding: Paragliding is a popular activity in Nagarkot. Several paragliding companies offer tandem flights.
- Sightseeing: Nagarkot is a great place to see the Himalayas. There are some viewpoints where you can get stunning views of the mountains.
- Visit the Nagarkot Durbar: The Nagarkot Durbar is a 14th-century fort located in the town center. The fort is now in ruins but is still worth visiting.
- Visit the Sundarijal Hydropower Plant: The Sundarijal Hydropower Plant is located about 5 kilometers (3 mi) from Nagarkot. The plant is one of the oldest hydropower plants in Nepal.
When to visit Nagarkot
The best time to visit Nagarkot is spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). The weather is mild during these months and there are fewer crowds. The summer (June-August) can be hot and humid, and the winter (December-February) can be cold and snowy.
8- Pashupatinath
Pashupatinath Temple is a Hindu temple complex located on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu, Nepal. It is one of the most important Hindu temples in the world and is dedicated to Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction and regeneration.
The temple complex is spread over about 500 acres and is home to several temples, ashrams, and monasteries. The main temple is a three-tiered pagoda richly decorated with Hindu deities and sculptures.
Pashupatinath Temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus from all over the world. It is also a popular tourist destination known for its unique Hindu and Buddhist culture blend.
Here are some interesting facts about Pashupatinath Temple:
- The temple was built in the 5th century CE by the Licchavi king, Manadeva.
- The temple complex is home to several other temples, including the Guheshwori Temple, the Bhairavnath Temple, and the Mahadev Temple.
- The temple complex is also home to some ashrams and monasteries, including the Pashupatinath Mutt, the Muktinath Temple, and the Guhyeshwari Temple.
- Pashupatinath Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The temple is open to Hindus only.
- Visitors must dress modestly and must cover their shoulders and knees.
9- Bouddhanath
Bouddhanath is a Buddhist stupa in Kathmandu, Nepal. It is one of the largest stupas in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The stupa is said to entomb the remains of Kassapa Buddha, the 2nd past Buddha. It is located on the ancient trade route from Tibet which enters the Kathmandu Valley by the village of Sankhu in the northeast corner and continues to the ancient and smaller stupa of Chabahil named Charumati Stupa (often called “Little Boudhanath”). It then turns directly south, heading over the Bagmati River to Lalitpur, bypassing the main city of Kathmandu (which was built later).
The stupa is a massive mandala, its massive dome making it one of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal and the world. Visitors are not allowed inside the stupa but can walk around it and offer prayers and blessings. There are several shops and restaurants near the stupa where visitors can buy souvenirs and food.
Boudhanath is a popular tourist destination and is a great place to learn about Buddhism and Nepali culture. It is also a popular place for meditation and spiritual practice.
Here are some interesting facts about Bouddhanath:
- The stupa was built in the 6th century CE by Manjushri, the bodhisattva of wisdom.
- The stupa is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists from all over the world.
- Bouddhanath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The stupa is open to all visitors, regardless of their religion.
10- Chandragiri Hills
Chandragiri is a hilltop in Kathmandu, Nepal, at 2,530 meters (8,300 feet). It is a popular tourist destination, offering panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and the Himalayas, including Mount Everest.
The hill is home to some temples and monasteries, including the Chandragiri Stupa, which is said to be one of the oldest in Kathmandu. The stupa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The hill is also home to several hotels, restaurants, and shops. It is a popular destination for hiking, trekking, and paragliding.
The best time to visit Chandragiri is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds.
Here are some things you can do at Chandragiri:
- Hike to the top of the hill for stunning views of the Kathmandu Valley and the Himalayas.
- Visit the Chandragiri Stupa, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Visit the temples and monasteries on the hill.
- Eat at one of the many restaurants on the hill.
- Shop at the many shops on the hill.
- Go paragliding from the top of the hill.
Chandragiri is a great place to relax and enjoy the stunning views of Kathmandu and the Himalayas.