Namaste! Are you ready for a life-changing trip? Nepal is a country of breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and incredible adventures. From the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the serene mountain trails of the Annapurna region, every corner of Nepal offers something unique. Nepal is definitely a step out of the comfort zone but at the same time it can be one of the best trips you’ve ever done. But with so many incredible places to explore, planning the perfect route can be overwhelming. Whether you’re a trekking enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or someone looking for a mix of both, this guide will help you navigate the best route to travel Nepal.
First stop: The capital Kathmandu
Your trip on the best route to travel Nepal begins in Kathmandu, the capital of the country. The city is home to more than one million Nepali. Located in the Kathmandu valley, the city is the center of the country. Many locals move to Kathmandu for economic reasons and for tourists, this is mostly the place where they arrive when they come to Nepal.
When you first arrive at the Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport you will find yourself in a complete chaos of cars, dust and dirty streets. To be honest, the first impression of Kathmandu can be overwhelming in a negative way. Especially for travellers who have never been to a developing country. But it is almost guaranteed, that after a short time, you will fall madly in love with the chaos. Or at least get used to it 🙂
In Kathmandu, you can take your time to get to know the lifestyle and the atmosphere in Nepal. Spend your days walking around the center (which is called Thamel) and explore the most beautiful temples, such as the Monkey Temple. Kathmandu is the beginning of your chapter in Nepal and for some visitors the beginning of the adventure to Everst Base Camp or any other mountain adventure. You will find countless trekking agency and hiking gear in the tiny shops in the streets.
Your list of must-dos for Kathmandu:
- Visit the Swayambunath Temple (also known as the Moneky Temple)
- Explore the city center Thamel
- Get to know the religion in the Pashupatinath Temple at the Bagmati River
- Visit the Kathmandu Durbar Square
- Try some local food and shop in Thamel
I personally would recommend to stay three or a maximum of four days in Kathmandu. This will allow you to see all the highlights, get used to Nepal and organize everything you need to continue your travels.
Continue to the quiet mountain village Bandipur
From Kathmandu, your journey continues West into the center of the country. The most common way to travel in Nepal is by bus. Tourists take the local bus which stops in every main area and is quite cheap. If you fancy more comfort, you can book a private taxi to take you to the next stop.
After an approximately five hour drive you will arrive in Bandipur. Welcome on one of the prettiest stops on the best route through Nepal. The bus stops at the Bandipur Gate and you need to take a local bus or a taxi up the hill to the main village.
Costs for the local bus: about 30 cents
Costs for the taxis: three to six EUR
Bandipur is, especially after spending some time in the chaos of Kathmandu, a peaceful place. The small village is known for its traditional charm and the breathtaking views of the Annapurna range on a clear day. In the past year, Bandipur has developed into a tourist highlight. More hotels are being built and the village is under heavy transformation. Despite the change, it still remains with a traditional character. You can hike in the area and enjoy the silence in the woods. Cute cafés invite you for a Milk Tea with a view over the mountains.
Your list of must-dos for Bandipur:
- hike up to the Thani Mai temple for sunrise and sunset
- walk around the village
- explore the cute cafés and tiny shops of the locals
- take the short walk to Tundikhel, a meeting point and view point of the locals
- hike to Ramkot (a very tiny and hidden village in the mountains)
If you have enough time, I would recommend staying three to four days in Bandipur. This is the perfect place to relax and let everything sink it. Especially after Kathmandu, you will enjoy the silence and the special atmosphere the small village has to offer.
Next stop is Pokhara
Next on the best route to travel Nepal, let’s get closer to the Himalayas. From Bandipur, you can book the same bus ticket as you did in Kathmandu for the way to Pokhara. Unfortunately, you have to pay the full price for Kathmandu to Pokhara if you want to make a stop in Bandipur (but the stop is totally worth it, so do not consider skipping).
The bus leaves at midday and takes about three hours until you reach the second largest city of Nepal, Pokhara.
Pokhara is mainly known as being the starting point of many treks in the Annapurna range. Most of the tourists are hikers who are about to start their multi-day trek or have just returned to the city. Of course, a trek in Nepal is an absolute must-do. But still, you should take a few days to explore Pokhara on the best route through Nepal.
Located at the shore of Lake Phewa, Pokhara has a beautiful scenery. On a sunny and clear day, you can see the snowy summits of the mountains on the horizon. The center of the city is at the Lake Side. Locals selling different treat and you will find cute cafés, restaurants and tiny shops. Pokhara has it all: From basic hotels to more comfortable accommodations, from local restaurants to Western restaurants, from clothing shops to souvenir shops.
Your list of must-dos in Pokhara:
- rent a boat and paddle over the Phewa Lake
- hike up to the Peace Pagoda
- spend some days in a yoga retreat or book a yoga class
- go on a little shopping trip
When I first came to Pokhara, I wanted to stay for around two days. I ended up being almost two weeks around the area, including a meaningful time in a nearby yoga center. Pokhara can be one of those places which invites travellers to stay. That’s why the best route to travel Nepal is at least a bit flexible. If you are not in a rush, stay for a while. Otherwise three to four days are ideal for the city.
Start your trekking adventure in the Himalayas
This is an absolute must the best route to travel Nepal for any traveller. There are different trekking options so you can choose whatever sounds and fits best to you. The minimum is a trek of five days and the maximum are 21 days. Here are the best and most common options:
- The Poon Hill Trek: Short but sweet
In just five days, you can experience your own Himalayan adventure in Nepal. The Poon Hill Trek requires a medium fitness level and you will walk for about four to six hours per day. On day three you will get the chance to watch the sunrise on Poon Hill and witness a breathtaking view.
- The Annapurna Base Camp: A traveller’s favorite
The ABC trek can be done in seven to nine days (depending on your speed and conditions) and gives you an ultimate Himalayan experience. The hike through forests, local villages and rough mountain areas is one of the best adventures Nepal could possibly give you.
- The Annapurna Circuit: Spending three weeks in the mountains
This one is for the travellers who simply cannot get enough. The Annapurna Circuit trek takes 21 days and leads you to every amazing spot in the area. Some travellers even decide to do the trek on their own and bring their tent to sleep in. Still, it is recommended to hire a guide to be safe on all of the different trekking routes.
- The Mardi Himal Trek: A popular route in the Himalayas
The Mardi Himal Trek is becoming more and more popular among hiking lovers. Mardi Himal offers amazing views and you literally stand in between the impressive mountains.
Last stop: Safari adventure in the Chitwan National Park
After arriving back from your trek to Pokhara, you can spend a day in the city to calm down before the journey through Nepal continues. The next (and also last) stop on the the best route through Nepal is the Chitwan National Park. This is your chance for an unforgettable safari outside of Africa! The National Park is home to wild elephants, rhinos, black bears and tigers. With a little luck, you can witness the animals in their natural habitat.
The Chitwan National Park is located close to the boarder of India in the South of Nepal. The bus ride takes you about four to five hours. The village of Chitwan is all about tourism and safari. To access the National Park itself you need to be accompanied by two rangers at least. Most hotels offer a safari tour or you can book with a tourist agency in the village. The classic tour is a two-day safari where you access the park at two different times.
Most safaris start early in the morning and you take the boat down the river to the beginning of the route. Walking through fields and along the river and through the jungle, the safari gives you the full experience.
With a little luck, you can witness a rhino (most likely) and if you are very very lucky, you will be able to spot a tiger (not so likely). Don´t be afraid, the rangers are fully trained and can react properly in case of a danger.
Be aware, that when travelling to Chitwan during summer, it can be incredibly hot. As the area is close to the boarder of India, you need to expect high temperatures. Especially from June to August, it is incredibly humid and temperatures go as high as 42 degrees. A room without an air-condition is an absolute no-go-
And lastly: back to Kathmandu
After your safari adventure in Chitwan, it is time to go back to the start. The bus takes you to Kathmandu, which is quite a long journey. Make sure to plan an entire day for the trip to avoid any hassle with your flight. Once arriving, you should spend one more night in the city before saying goodbye to Nepal. This best route to travel Nepal does not leave out the highlights of the country. It can easily be adjusted to whatever time frame you have and what adventures you’re looking for.
And always remember: When travelling to Nepal, you cry two times. Once when you arrive and once when you leave!
