Nepal Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts in Nepal

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.

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The Annapurna mountain range from Poon Hill

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek - 7 Days

Get up close to some of the world’s highest peaks on this moderate trek in the Annapurna Region. This 7-day adventure, including an easy to moderate 4-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.

Mount Ama Dablam seen from Dingboche Village

Dingboche Trek - 12 Days

On the 12-day version of this itinerary, you'll trek from Lukla to Namche Bazaar—a famous trading village between Tibet and Nepal. Continue from village to village, enjoying views of Ama Dablam, the "Matterhorn of Nepal." You'll learn about Sherpa culture along the way, culminating with the Buddhist monastery at Tengboche, and finally Dingboche before returning to Pokhara.

Pokhara, Kathmandu's second largest city

Nepal's Golden Triangle - 10 Days

Nepal's many cultural attractions have roots in Hindu and Buddhist traditions that go back thousands of years. This itinerary starts with several day-trips from Kathmandu before you head to the jungle. Balance the sacred pilgrimage sites and monuments with outdoor activities: hike in Nagarkot, paraglide in Pokhara, and ride an elephant in Chitwan National Park.

Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing - 4 Days

In just 4 days, you'll explore the famous cultural sites of the Kathmandu Valley and top it off with an early morning flight with views of Mount Everest. This trip provides the perfect balance for getting the best of Kathmandu's nature and culture for those with limited time.

Himalayan views from Nagarkot on the edge of Kathmandu Valley

Nagarkot Trek & Kathmandu Tour - 5 Days

One of the most popular short treks in Nepal, this route to Nagarkot is ideal for beginners of all ages. You'll make your way through oak, pine, and rhododendron forests and learn about village life while taking in views of the Kathmandu Valley and snow-capped Himalayan peaks in Nagarkot. Wake up to a sunrise view over Mount Everest before enjoying more time in Kathmandu.

Namche Bazaar Trek - 8 Days

The 8-day version of this Nepal adventure takes you up to Namche Bazaar, a traditional Sherpa village and unofficial capital of the Khumbu region. Visit Sagarmatha National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—along with alpine forest, Buddhist sites, and, of course, panoramic snow-capped views of the Himalayan peaks.

Catch panoramic views of Ama Dablam by helicopter

Namche Bazaar Trek & Helicopter Tour - 7 Days

Visit Namche Bazaar, a traditional Sherpa village and unofficial capital of the Khumbu region on this fast-paced trip. During 4 comfortable days of trekking, you'll pass through Sagarmatha National Park, through alpine forests, and visit ancient Buddhist sites. The adventure ends with a helicopter tour of the snow-capped Himalaya, including a stop at the base of Mount Everest.

Catch views of Himalayan peaks like Ama Dablam en route to Tengboche

Tengboche Monastery Trek - 10 Days

This trek fulfills a section of the popular and rugged trail towards Everest Base Camp. Starting from Lukla, you'll climb through the forested Dudh Kosi valley to reach Namche Bazaar, a famous trading village between Tibet and Nepal. You'll learn about Sherpa culture along the way, culminating with the holy village of Tengboche.

Chitwan and Ghandruk Trek - 10 Days

This tour combines two great Nepal experiences: Chitwan National Park in the subtropical lowlands and the Ghandruk Trek in the Annapurna foothills. Chitwan has a wide variety of wildlife including tigers, rhinos, elephants and many bird species. The Ghandruk trek is suitable for every level—beginners, families, and older age groups alike—and includes overnight stays in Gurung villages.

Flying by helicopter through the Everest region

Luxury Everest Heli Trek - 4 Days

This 4-day tour lets you experience the best of Nepal in a short amount of time. Fly via helicopter to get into and out of the Everest region and stay in luxury lodges on the trail—it's a memorable way to visit Everest Basecamp and get a taste of trekking in Nepal.

Hundreds of trekking gear shops line the streets of Kathmandu

Buying and Renting Trekking Gear in Kathmandu

Almost anything you need for your trek, you can find in Kathmandu. There are hundreds of small shops packed with equipment lining the streets of Thamel, the main trekkers' hub. You can buy or rent anything you're missing or don't want to pack—from down sleeping bags and jackets to trekking poles, water bottles, and sunglasses.

Getting from Kathmandu to Phaplu

Phaplu is a gateway village in the lower Solu Khumbu, serving as the starting off point for a number of treks. It also has one of the only domestic airports in the region. There are a number of short treks nearby, such as Pikey Peak, and you can also trek from her to the upper Everest region.

A tourist taking a photo of Manaslu and a Buddhist monastery

10 Best Apps for Nepal

Packing for a trip to Nepal? You may know what to bring in your backpack and suitcase, but have you prepped your smartphone? Whether you're trekking or immersing yourself in culture, download these 10 helpful apps, ranging from off-line maps to a mountain identifier to an English-Nepali dictionary.

Prayer flags against the backdrop of the Annapurnas

Nepal's Main Regions: Deciding Where to Go

Nepal is divided into three main geographical regions—the Himalaya in the north, the central hilly region, and the Terai (or jungle region) in the south. To help you decide where to go, we've broken these regions up into smaller, popular sub-regions which can be combined in numerous ways. There's an enormous amount of cultural diversity and natural beauty almost everywhere you turn, making it easy to find the perfect combination no matter how many days you have in Nepal.

Machapuchare (6993m) at sunset, Annapurna Region

Nepal's Main Trekking Regions

The Everest and Annapurna regions are the two most popular areas for trekking, but there are a number of other regions that hold some of the best treks in Nepal. Both regions are best visited in spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), though winter treks (December-February) are possible on some routes in these areas. Summer/monsoon (June-August) trekking in these regions isn't recommended, as the trails can get quite wet and slippery and mountain views obscured.

Tiger Tops Karnali Lodge in Bardia National Park

The 6 Best Jungle Lodges in Nepal

Nepal is an excellent destination for jungle treks, safari tours, and off-the-beaten-track adventures. If it's wildlife and national parks you're after, there are lodges in the heart of the jungle that rise above the competition to provide sustainable wilderness experiences that also prioritize comfort.

Nepal's Jungle Region: Chitwan and Bardia National Parks

Most travelers to Nepal think of trekking in the Himalaya, but there's another entirely different landscape to explore in the south of Nepal—Chitwan and Bardia National Parks. Under the forested canopies of these two national parks, you'll spot rhinos, tigers, elephants, and a variety of birdlife. Here's a guide for planning trips to these two regions.

Helicopter flying through the Annapurna region

Best Helicopter Tours in Nepal

Nepal is beautiful from every angle, but there's something special about seeing it from the air. Helicopter tours are a unique way to combine transport with sightseeing among the world's tallest mountains and deepest valleys—and it's the perfect solution if you're short on time. Here are some of the best helicopter excursions to incorporate into your trip.

Best Short Treks in the Annapurna Region

The lower Annapurna region is perfect for short treks. With just a few days in the mountains, you’ll experience what makes this part of Nepal special: accessible views of snow-capped peaks, rhododendron forests, and easy trails lined with a selection of cozy teahouses. Here’s a guide to the best short treks in the Annapurna region.

Mt. Dhaulagiri from Poon Hill, Lower Annapurna Region

Best Beginner Treks in Nepal from 3-8 Days

You don't need extreme altitudes or serious mileage to trek in the Himalaya. Nepal also offers a variety of beginner treks with beautiful views and glimpses of the local culture, all taking a week or less to complete. Read on for the best beginner treks in Nepal.

Vespa scooters in front of Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu

Vespa Valley Tour in Kathmandu

Get in and amongst the streets of Kathmandu and the surrounding valley by taking a day tour, chauffeured on the back of a vintage Vespa. Vespa Valley has a fleet of six well-maintained scooters with a number of different routes you can choose from around the Kathmandu Valley.

Best Camping Treks in Nepal

Camping under the stars after a day trekking through dramatic Himalayan landscapes is one of the most memorable experiences you can have in Nepal. Learn what to expect from a camping trek, and take your pick from six of the best routes.

Where to Stay in Kathmandu: Choosing Your Accommodation

Welcome to Kathmandu, the beating heart of Nepal. Whatever your taste or budget, this busy metropolis has an accommodation option to suit you. With so many choices—especially in the tourist hub of Thamel—it can be difficult to decide where to stay. Make the most of your visit to the Nepali capital by checking out these recommendations for the best and most unique hotels, resorts, and homestays in the city.

Everest Mountain Flight: All You Need To Know

Trekking to Everest Base Camp is the classic way to get up-close-and-personal with the world's tallest peak. But there's another way to go that's quicker, cheaper, and less exhausting: hop aboard a plane or helicopter. Here's how to do it, and what to expect.

Role of Your Local Guide in Nepal

Traveling with a great guide is important in Nepal—particularly at high altitude. Read on for more information about the benefits of hiring local, learn what to expect, and meet some of the country's top trekking and tour guides.

Tourists walking around a temple in Kathmandu, Nepal

24 Hours in Kathmandu

Kathmandu charms visitors with a mix of ancient history, striking Hindu and Buddhist sites, cheap and cheerful dining, and fun nightlife. If you only have a day, follow these tips to get the most out of your time in Nepal's busy capital.

Lush vegetation along the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek during monsoon season

Monsoon Season in Nepal: What To Expect

Starting around mid-June, peaking in July and August, and winding down in early September, the monsoon brings rain, humidity and an increase in temperatures across most of Nepal. True — mountain views are often obscured by cloud, temperatures get uncomfortable, it rains daily, and yes, there are leeches. But this is still a great time to trek and here are our best tips for going about it.

Trekking in the Khumbu - 19 Days

Immerse yourself in the stunning scenery and culture of the Himalaya on this two-week-long trek that covers all the essential attractions between Kathmandu and Everest Base Camp. From Lukla— the gateway to the Khumbu — all the way to the summit of Kala Patthar, you will trek along challenging routes, visit Sherpa villages, and enjoy unforgettable views of the region's most iconic mountains.

Traveler Interview: Kid-Friendly Trek in Nepal

Kimkim traveler Clare Immens likes to instill a sense of adventure in her three children—so taking her young daughter Elsie on a multi-day trek in Nepal was a no-brainer. From card games in tea houses to making friends with baby animals along the way, read on to learn about their experience hiking through the Annapurna foothills on the Ghandruk Trek.

The Prince's Trek through the Annapurna Foothills - 9 Days

Originally designed for the Prince of Wales, this easy trek takes you on quiet, off-the-beaten-path trails through the foothills of the Pokhara Valley. From the ridge lines and local villages where you'll stay each night, you'll have stunning views of the Annapurna Himalaya and experience a more rural and traditional side of Nepal.

Ama Dablam (22,349 ft / 6,812 m) translates as "Mother's necklace"

Ama Dablam Luxury Trek - 16 Days

Experience Khumbu at its finest on this trek, which brings you to the base camp of the stunning Mount Ama Dablam at 15,750 feet. End each day at one of five comfortable lodges, with en-suite rooms, comfortable lounges, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Explore quieter trails where you will meet local people and experience their culture and ancient traditions first-hand, not to mention their enviable sense of tranquility.

A rangoli to welcome the Goddess Laxmi on Laxmi Puja

Nepal's Festival of Lights - 10 Days

Tihar, or the Festival of Lights, is a five-day Hindu festival in the autumn that celebrates the intimate relationship between animals and people. It also worships Laxmi, the goddess of wealth, culminating in Laxmi Puja when rangoli patterns are made with colored powder and flowers. This trip will take you on a journey from Kathmandu to the old Malla kingdoms of Bhaktapur and Patan, and the lakeside city of Pokhara. Along the way, you will stay with local families to enjoy the full flavor of this magical festival.

View of Pokhara & Phewa Lake from Sarangkot

Annapurna Yoga & Luxury Trek - 11 Days

Embark on special yoga spirit trek in the Annapurna foothills of Nepal's sacred Himalayan Mountains. Led by an experienced international yoga instructor, this trek focuses on energizing yoga, meditation, and breathing to revitalize your inner self. With overnight stays in luxury Ker & Downey Lodges, this trip is an ideal introduction to trekking in Nepal.

Best Nightlife in Pokhara

It's easy to have a blast in Pokhara — especially at night! Between the open-air cinemas, booming live music scene, sports bars, and stunning sunsets, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Just be sure to make the most of everything before midnight, when the city shuts down.

Best Places To Eat & Drink in Pokhara

Pokhara is brimming with restaurants that cater to all tastes and travelers. From ayurvedic and vegan to Korean and Italian, deciding where to go can be the hardest part of your day in this relaxing lakeside town. Stress not: this dining guide is here to help.

Best Cafés in Pokhara

Nepal's love affair with coffee is in full swing in Pokhara, where over 35 coffee shops have cropped up in the last five years — all touting locally grown, organic Himalayan Arabica.

A young woman meditates in the Annapurnas

Best Yoga Retreats and Treks in Nepal

While many yogis flock to the tropical beaches of southern India to hone their practice, it's hard to beat doing downward dog or meditating against the backdrop of the world's highest peaks. This roundup of the best yoga treks, retreats, and adventures in Nepal, from a yoga rafting trip on the Sun Kosi to a luxury yoga trek in the Annapurnas, will have you booking a flight before you can say Om-M-G.

Phoksundo Lake Trek – 10 Days

Discover Nepal's majestic region of Dolpo. This remote area, made famous by Peter Matthiessen’s book 'The Snow Leopard,' has only been open to trekkers since 1989. Its most alluring attraction, Phoksundo Lake, is sacred to Buddhists and followers of the Bonpo religion. This relatively easy trek involves no high passes, and winds through Himalayan forests and traditional Tibetan villages.

Discovering Bandipur: A Crown Jewel of Nepal

The Newari town of Bandipur is one of central Nepal's hidden gems. It combines traditional village architecture, epic Himalayan views, lovely countryside walks, local adventure sports, and excellent accommodation. It's also an ideal place to break up the drive between Pokhara and Kathmandu while getting a relaxing taste of rural Nepal in the process.

Western Nepal Homestay Trek with Bardia Safari - 12 Days

Humla is a remote region of Western Nepal, and this trip takes you trekking through its river valleys and high peaks, with homestays in traditional Buddhist villages along the way. After your memorable trekking adventures, experience a change of pace in Bardia National Park, where you'll spend your time spotting native wildlife species, before ending your trip in bustling Kathmandu.

Mardi Himal Trek - 12 Days

Few trekkers make their way to the base of spectacular Mardi Himal and the beautiful and imposing Machapuchhre, but this stunning route is quickly gaining popularity. Less challenging than the trek to nearby Annapurna Base Camp yet just as beautiful, this 12-day adventure belongs on the itinerary of anyone looking for a literal off-the-beaten-path trek in Nepal.

Farming terraces in the lower Annapurna region

Best of Central Nepal: Astam & Chitwan - 13 Days

Nepal is known for its snow-capped Himalayan peaks, and this tour offers a taste of that imposing grandeur—but it also encompasses the grassy lowlands of the Terai in Nepal's south. Take in stunning views of the world's tallest mountains and immerse yourself in the bustle of local village life. Wake up to sounds of nature and break your fast with the elephants. Explore the best of central Nepal and Chitwan!

Views over the Eastern Himalayas from Tengboche Monastery

Classic Everest Region Trek - 11 Days

In this multi-day trekking tour, you'll be guaranteed spectacular views of the snowcapped Himalayan range, home to the highest mountains on earth. Challenge yourself with a few rugged, altitude-climbing hikes while enjoying the comfort and ease of Nepal's famous hospitality. Along the way, you'll be immersed in the fascinating traditions and culture of the Nepalese people.

Walking Discoveries in Nepal - 11 Days

This 11-day tour winds from city to countryside for a glimpse of the best of Nepal. Trace the footsteps of pilgrims and adventurers as you make your way through traditional villages to hilltop temples, riverside resorts, and mountain ridges. Don't forget your camera!

Nepal Adventure: Rafting & Safari - 10 Days

Mixing outdoor and jungle activities with a healthy dash of comfort and service, this trip will take you through the best of Nepal—with time for both adrenaline rushes and relaxation. The adventure starts in Kathmandu with a flight over the mountains, continues to the country's oldest temples, and leaves time for views of the Annapurna range, where thirteen peaks scrape the sky. Two days of rafting send you through the jungle to finally discover the abundant wildlife of Chitwan National Park.

Ultimate Guide to Lumbini: Birthplace of The Buddha

When visiting Nepal, it's easy to set your sights firmly on Mt. Everest, Kathmandu, and Chitwan National Park — but don't overlook the religious site of Lumbini. As the birthplace of the Buddha, this is one of the world's great pilgrimage destinations. If you're interested in history, spirituality, or archaeology, add Lumbini to your Nepal wish list.

Tipping Your Guides in Nepal

How much should you tip your guide and porter after a trek? That depends on a variety of factors: whether you're traveling alone or with a group, for just one week or a whole month, and most importantly, what kind of service you received. Here's a brief article to help you.

Unique Ways to Experience Nepal's Main Treks

When planning a trek in Nepal, it's easy to focus on reaching base camp or a high pass while squeezing the rest into as few days of precious vacation time as possible. But you might want to rethink your itinerary: some of Nepal's most beautiful places are a few hours out of the way. Head off the main trekking trails with these worthwhile detours, and you'll have some of the country's most stunning scenery all to yourself.

Kiang roam in Limi Valley (Pic by:Tashi R. Ghale)

Limi Valley Trek - 20 Days

Hidden deep within the Himalaya is Humla: the highest, most northern and remote district of Nepal. Humla is culturally diverse, occupied in the northern highlands by Bhotias, and in the southern valleys and riverbeds by the Khasas (Hindus). You will experience these rich and varied cultures as you trek over 16,000 ft passes, through remote villages, and explore ancient monasteries in the vivid Limi Valley.

Deluxe Room with Best View (Photo by Big Pillow Inn)

The 6 Best Boutique Hotels in Pokhara

It's hard to keep up with all the new hotels in Pokhara, Nepal's adventure capital and second-largest city. To help you figure out where to stay in this beautiful lakeside town, here's a selection of some of our favorites, both classic and new, for every budget.

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