You might be feeling disappointed, disheartened, and severely vexed as a result of not being able to fulfill your everlasting travel goal of visiting our small yet magical country; Nepal. However, shrug away the sadness and start making travel plans for the next year; the pandemic might cancel your trips for now but you will surely get to resume your travel dreams sooner than you think. Hence the following are some surreal places in Nepal you must plan to visit after the pandemic subsides
Widely known as the monkey temple due to its notorious monkey inhabitants the Swaymbunath temple should definitely be at the top of your “places to visit in Nepal” list. This majestic stupa is the oldest of its kind and is a religious hub for both Hindus and Buddhists. The Sleeping Buddha and the Dewa Dhawa Monastery are two holy structures you must not miss to discern in Swaymbunath. With all honesty, you will experience an overwhelming amount of inner peace and contentment after a visit to this inimitable stupa.
Away from the hustle-bustle of the valley the Rupa Taal is a picturesque freshwater lake in the fascinating city of Pokhara. It will undoubtedly charm you in all ways possible and will compel you to appreciate nature at one of its purest forms. Nature enthusiast or not, the soothingly tranquil atmosphere of the Rupa Taal will certainly make you blissful.
Nepal is home to a plentitude of caves and enigmatic underground crevasses. The Siddha Gufa is one of such caves nestled in the cozy village of Bandipur. You can turn on explorer’s mode and decide to trek to the gufa while enjoying the homely atmosphere of the Newari village. Whether it’s because of the bat covered insides or the eerie darkness this visit to Nepal’s largest cave is surely going to be electrifying.
Named after the indigenous Hoylmo people; the original residents of the village, Helambu lies in the beautiful highlands of Sindupalchowk district. Once you are in Helambu you will be unable to take your eyes off the calming views of the Rolwaling range, Langtang Himal and Ganesh Himal. The breathtaking views of Nepal’s colossal mountains, the amiable and welcoming locals, and the beauteous Buddhist villages make Helambu a destination you don’t want to miss!
The Phulchowki hill station is good news for people who relish bird watching and getting lost amidst greenery and serenity. The trek to the hill station might be a tiny bit exhausting for some, albeit all the effort is going to seem worthwhile once you see the striking views of the entire Kathmandu Valley along with, those of the Annapurna range and Mount Gaurishankar. We hence suggest you squeeze this destination on your travel list if you haven’t.
What better way to experience Nepali tea culture in its finest form than to visit the “Queen of Hills”- Ilam. An eye-pleasing combination of endless verdant tea bushes, the cerulean sky, and a soothing cool climate, Ilam is the perfect hideaway from the bustling city life. While in Ilam you can sip in a delicious cup of “chiya” while immersing yourself in the spectacular view of the sunset offered by the Antu Danda, laze your day off wandering around the Ilam bazaar or enjoy a tranquil picnic with your loved ones at one of the many tea gardens; the options are exciting and endless.
Located in far western Nepal, the Bardia National Park is a true gem for both nature and animal lovers. Its lush grasslands are home to 642 faunal species and 839 species of flora. Visitors hence have an opportunity to spot a wide range of animals from majestic wild elephants to fierce Bengal tigers. You can choose to take a flight or a bus to Bardiya or can do white water rafting along the Karnali River (which ends near Bardiya) if you are up for some adrenaline rush.
If you aren’t a big fan of long tiring treks, albeit still enjoy gazing at unsurpassed views of mountains and hillocks the short trek to Poon Hill is ideal for you. This three-day trek is primarily a prelude to what a longer Nepali mountain trek feels like. Along the way to poon hill you will be passing through peaceful idyllic villages while getting to take glimpses at the unique cultures of the local Gurung and Magar communities. Once at the top, get ready to be greeted by more panoramic views of The Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhare, Annapurna II and Lamjung mountains.
North to the ancient Buddhist town of Boudhanath, vis-à-vis to a holy Bodhi tree is the inimitable Kopan Monastery. This monastery provides a great opportunity for individuals who want to learn more about the principles of Buddhism and the way of life in a classic Buddhist monastery. The clean air, serene atmosphere, and unparalleled views of the valley below make this place a good meditation spot too.
Nepal is home to an infinite number of incomparable travel gems. Be it lush green national parks, age old ancient temples or peaceful lakes and tea gardens; there are endless places to discover and decipher. Ergo, be hopeful, and never let go of your travel dreams!! Dream now, travel later.