Unlocking Nepal: Travel Secrets & Insights
Welcome to Nepal — a land where the towering Himalayas meet timeless traditions. Known for
its
friendly locals, spiritual depth, and breathtaking landscapes, Nepal offers a mix of adventure, culture, and
scenic
beauty that appeals to every kind of traveler.
Most international visitors arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. This
is
the main gateway to the country, connecting travelers to both domestic and international destinations. From
here,
domestic flights by local airlines make it convenient to reach Pokhara, Lukla, Bharatpur, and other popular
regions.
While these flights save time, keep in mind that weather delays are common in mountain airports.
Traveling by road unlocks hidden gems of Nepal. Long-distance buses connect major cities like
Pokhara, Chitwan, Biratnagar, and Lumbini. Tourists often prefer luxury tourist buses or private jeeps over
crowded local buses for greater comfort. Riding through the hills and valleys gives you a true sense of the
country’s
beauty, though keep in mind that journeys may take longer due to winding roads.
Exploring Nepal by domestic flights, tourist buses, and jeeps is the most popular option, but
adventurous travelers also rent motorbikes to weave through mountain passes. If you choose self-driving,
you’ll need
an International Driving Permit. Roads can be challenging, with steep climbs and traffic, so most visitors
rely on
private drivers.
Trekking routes are Nepal’s most famous travel experiences. From the Everest Base Camp trail
to the
Annapurna Circuit and the peaceful Langtang Valley, hiking is the best way to immerse yourself in stunning
mountain
scenery and village life. For those short on time, shorter treks like Ghorepani Poon Hill offer equally
inspiring
panoramas.
For a unique perspective, visitors can also try scenic mountain flights. These one-hour
journeys
from Kathmandu offer breathtaking views of Mount Everest and its neighboring peaks, giving travelers a
Himalayan
experience without trekking.
Whether you’re exploring bustling Kathmandu streets, gazing at lakeside Pokhara, or meditating in Lumbini
under
ancient Bodhi trees, Nepal offers something for the heart of every traveler. What makes the journey truly
memorable
is the blend of sacred culture, warm hospitality, and natural wonder you’ll encounter along the way.
Start planning your trip
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Ghandruk Village, located at the North West side of Pokhara, is home to local Gurung community
people. This village is rich in culture and the views seen from this village attracts anyone to
its doorsteps. Considered to be the gateway to the Annapurna Base Camp trek, this place is
visited by most travelers following the trail of Ghorepani Poonhill, Khopra Danda, or Annapurna
Base Camp year round.
This is a there-and-back trek to the awe-inspiring Annapurna Sanctuary, Nepal’s second most
popular trek after Everest Base Camp. From Annapurna Base Camp at 4130 m, you'll wake up to
truly one of the most spectacular views you will ever see. The trek begins at Phedi after a
short drive from Pokhara and passes through Gurung villages, rhododendron forests, and stunning
river valleys set against the backdrop of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks.
Mardi Himal is a hidden gem, just east of Annapurna Base Camp. Few trekkers make their way to
Mardi Himal’s Base Camp, spectacularly situated at the base of Mardi Himal and the beautiful and
imposing Machapuchhre (or Fishtail). It's enough of a challenge (yet suitable for most
travelers) and very accessible from Pokhara. You'll reach a maximum altitude of 14,599 ft (4,450
m) and pass through Newar, Gurung, and Brahmin villages.
The trek through the Annapurna Circuit offers an unforgettable experience. It combines the
contrasting landscapes of the Lower Mustang and the verdant farmlands of the Marshyangdi valley.
The trek crosses the Thorong La and reaches the sacred site of Muktinath. On a clear day,
Dhaulagiri is visible in the distance. We reach the Kali Gandaki river gorge, which cuts through
the massifs of the Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna. After a relaxing swim at the hot springs at
Tatopani, we reach Poon Hill for a sunrise view.
Mera Peak is the highest trekking peak in Nepal, located in the Khumbu
region. Popular among adventure seekers, the climb offers breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse,
Cho Oyu,
Makalu, and Kanchenjunga. While physically demanding due to altitude, the ascent is
non-technical and suitable
for trekkers with basic mountaineering skills.
Manasulu Valley is a remote and untouched area, opened for trekking in 2007, located in the
Gorkha
district of Nepal. The valley stretches across altitudes from 1,900 m to 5,090 m at Ngula
Dhojyang pass.
It offers spectacular Himalayan landscapes, rich biodiversity, and visits to traditional
villages such
as Chumche and Chhekampar.
