Nepal is located in southern Asia, at the southern foot of the middle section of the Himalayas, bordering China’s Tibet Autonomous Region to the north, surrounded by India in the east, west, and south. There are 14 peaks in the world with an altitude of over 8,000 meters, 8 of them located in Nepal, therefore Nepal has the reputation of being “the Kingdom of Snow Mountains”. Nepal is located at the intersection of Asian civilizations and it’s a country with very developed tourism industry. Hinduism, Buddhism, ancient palace buildings, and colorful natural resources constitute the unique tourism resources of the local area. It is one of the most suitable countries for hiking in the world. Here is an inventory of the top 5 tourist places to visit in Nepal.
#1 Kathmandu Durbar Square
Kathmandu Durbar Square is located in the central area of Kathmandu and is one of the most famous sights in Kathmandu. The numerous monuments, buildings, exquisite carvings, and mysterious temples make people linger and feel the rich flavor of the history of Nepal. However, the whizzing motorcycles, selling hawkers, silhouettes of resting people, as well as kids playing football, the crowded pigeons, cows, sheep, dogs, cats, and dogs, etc., make Durbar Square as busy as a bazaar. The bustling marketplace and mysterious temples have formed a strong visual impact.
#2 Monkey Temple
The full name of Monkey Temple is Swayambhunath Stupa, located in the west of Kathmandu. With a history of more than 2500 years, it is the oldest Buddhist temple in Nepal and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. According to legend, Sakyamuni once visited this place. There are many monkeys here, and they are not afraid of strangers, so it is named Monkey Temple. After reaching the top, you can overlook the entire Kathmandu Valley. Don’t forget to stand on the top of the mountain and take an intimate photo with Kathmandu! A grand puja is held here every year on the Buddha’s birthday, and there will be crowds of people and lively activities.
#3 Chitwan National Park
Chitwan National Park is called “Chitwan Royal National Park”. It is located in a preserved area in the Terai Lowlands of southern Nepal. It is one of the few unspoiled natural areas in the Himalayan hills between India and Nepal. It’s also the habitat of the Asian one-horned rhinoceros, which is rare in the world, and one of the last hiding places for the Bengal tiger. In the park, there are verdant bamboo forests, towering Sal trees, kapok trees, and crimson flower ferns, which enjoy the reputation of “Forest Flame”. It was once the private hunting territory for royal Nepalese and their distinguished guests. In 1973, it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
#4 Pashupatinath Temple
Pashupatinath Temple was built in the 19th century. It is one of the most important Hindu temples in Kathmandu and the largest Hindu temple in Nepal. It is also one of the four major temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in South Asia and has been included in the World Cultural Heritage List. Non-Hindus cannot enter the main hall. Pashu means “all beings” and Pati means “lord”. Pashupatinath Temple is the beginning and end of lives for Nepalese, and is also the “Temple of Burning Corpse”. There are six stone cremation platforms by the Bagmati River outside the Temple, where Nepalese Hindus hold open-air cremations. Moreover, it has been the worship place for ascetics.
#5 Phewa Lake
Phewa Lake is located on the lakeside of Pokhara, a city in central Nepal, and a famous royal resort in Nepal. The majestic Annapurna peaks constitute the natural background of Fewa Lake, and the charming lake and mountains attract a large number of tourists every year. The royal palace is located on the south bank of the lake. The middle lakeside area at the intersection of the palace on the north bank and the campsite is the center of the entire scenic area. Hotels, restaurants, and shopping are filled with the main street on the lakeside. No matter when and from any angle, Fewa Lake has its own style. photographers especially favor Fewa Lake in the dusk. In the evening, the returning birds dance in the changing light and shadow. You may rent a brightly colored small sailboat on the lake and quietly appreciate the lake and mountains reflected in the water, which is very popular among backpackers.
