1. Kathmandu Valley
The Kathmandu Valley is the political, commercial and cultural center of Nepal and the first stop for most visitors to the country. The three legendary cities of Kathmandu, Patan (Lalitpur) and Bhaktapur are all located in the Kathmandu Valley.
Kathmandu. Photo: zimbio.
Legend has it that in ancient times the Kathmandu Valley was just a lake. Manjushiriddax drew his sword and split the mountain, drained the lake and created the fertile valley where people live as we know it today. Over the centuries, a sophisticated urban civilization emerged based on a unique blend of Hinduism and Buddhism. Commerce and the arts flourished.
The Newars of Nepal built cities and art-filled temples that attracted devout pilgrims and frenzied invaders. By the late 18th century, Kathmandu had become the capital of Nepal and the largest city in the country. You can't miss the famous Durbar Square, Swayambhuath Pagoda, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple and Changu Narayan.
2. Nagarkot
Sunrise scene in Nagarkot. Photo: panoramio.
Nagarkot, 32 km east of Kathmandu, is one of the scenic spots in Bhaktapur. When the weather is clear, you can witness the spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas from here. Many tourists come to Nagarkot and stay overnight just to witness this breathtaking sight. The valley, surrounded by the Indrawati River, turns colorful with thousands of different species of flowers blooming everywhere in spring. The colorful flowers with the serene backdrop of snow-capped peaks make Nagarkot one of the most beautiful and interesting places in Nepal.
3. Pokhara City
The clear blue lake reflects Pokhara. Photo: loyaltours.
Pokhara is an enchanting city with irresistible natural beauty: snow-capped peaks, clear blue lakes, deep gorges... Many backpackers choose Pokhara as the starting point for their trekking and rafting journeys. The tranquil scenery of Phewa Lake and the majesty of Macchapuchre (6,977 m) create a magical serenity. The valley around Pokhara is home to many dense forests, rivers, clear blue lakes and especially the view of the Himalayas. You can reach Pokhara from Kathmandu and Bhairawa, the border near India by air or road.
4. Chitwan National Park
Elephant safari tour in Chitwan. Photo: zimeo.
Chitwan National Park is one of the most interesting tourist destinations in Nepal, a natural wonder that no visitor wants to miss. The park covers an area of 932 square kilometers in the south-central part of Nepal, with a diverse ecosystem including the Churia Hills, lakes and plains of Rapti, Reu and the Narayani River. The Churia Hills gradually rise to the east from 150 m to 800 m. One of the experiences here is riding on the back of an elephant to explore the wild nature. Visitors can get close to the ferocious one-horned rhinoceros or watch the Bengal tiger while sitting safely on the back of an elephant. In addition, the park is also home to more than 50 species of animals, more than 525 species of birds, amphibians and 55 species of reptiles. Chitwan is Nepal's first national park, established in 1973 and recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site in 1984.
