Nepal’s Top Tourist Places and Attractions for 2022
Nepal, an enigmatic and fascinating place, welcomes every tourist and backpacker to come and see its numerous charms. It is a lovely country with some of nature’s most gorgeous sights and is drenched in religious beauty. The sloping land where the Himalaya's most severe vigor is stored is unveiled distinctly to those who come here.
Nepal is also a home of 10 UNESCO natural and cultural World Heritage Sites, the Lord Buddha, and the heroic Gurkhas other than the 8 tallest mountain peaks including the number 1 Everest. The abundance of rewarding landscapes draws trekkers to the majestic Himalayas and the difficult Everest and Annapurna climbs. Aside from being a trekkers' paradise, a number of noteworthy historical and cultural landmarks, such as temples and monuments, speak volumes about the country's rich history and culture. On top of that, a large portion of the country remains unaffected by urbanization, despite the fact that it has long been a popular tourist destination.
In fact, Nepal made it again on the top 10 list of Lonely Planet’s top tourist destinations to visit in the upcoming year 2022. Previously, the major travel guidebook - Lonely Planet named Nepal as the No. 1 best value destination for 2017 and No. 5 on their hot list of countries to visit in 2019. The upcoming year 2022 would be a blast for the tourism industry if the ongoing pandemic rests in peace.
We are all aware of the unique characteristics that distinguish Nepal, the largest Himalayan state in Asia from other countries. Nepal is the ideal holiday destination for historians, adventurers, and nature lovers, thanks to its vibrant towns and exhilarating adventures. When it comes to deciding where to go in Nepal, you'll be spoiled for choice, with such a diverse range of undiscovered natural wonders and cultural and historical delights.
Here are Nepal’s top tourist places and attractions for 2022, based under different categories that can be found nowhere else than in this wonderful paradise.
Most Popular Cities to Visit in 2022
Many believe that the Himalayas and Kathmandu are the only destinations in Nepal worth visiting. Yes, these are both fantastic. But, beyond Nepal's mountains and capital, there are a plethora of other amazing destinations to visit. Take a look at Nepal's top tourist places and attractions for 2022 and you'll see that it's a diversified country that everyone would like to visit.
1. Kathmandu - The gleaming capital city
The gateway to Nepal and the Himalayas, Kathmandu lies in the shadow of high mountainous hills attracting ambitious explorers eager to discover the secrets of this ancient land. The setting for Nepal's capital city could not be more spectacular. It is unlike any other place you would visit anyplace in the globe.
Chaotic, historic, spiritual, intriguing, and energetic are the words that describe the city at the least. With a population of roughly 1.7 million people, you will discover that this city is a garden full of flowers. Multi-ethnical and multi-cultural Kathmandu is an achingly beautiful melting pot of Buddhist and Hindu religions, culture, and history, with a wealth of things to see and do.
Kathmandu is also known as the "City of Temples," and is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which are just a few of the numerous religious and historical sites to see.
Best Time to Visit: All year round
Prime Highlights: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, Patan, Bhaktapur, Thamel.
2. Bhaktapur – An open Museum
Bhaktapur is just 12 kilometers east of the capital, Kathmandu, yet the ambiance of traditional dwellings, customs, and environment gives it a prehistoric vibe. It is known as a city of living heritage, a city of culture, a city of devotion, and an open museum. It is a historic city known for its magnificent art, wonderful Newari culture, vivid festivals, traditional dances, and their way of life.
Bhaktapur is a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing hundreds of traditional Newari arts and architecture showcasing the uniqueness of their craftsmanship. The ancient city center is car-free, making strolling through its cobblestone streets a real pleasure. You'll continually come across breath-taking buildings with unique designs and iconic red brick exteriors as you walk through the downtown streets.
Best Time to Visit: All year round
Prime Highlights: Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Nyatapola Temple, Golden Gate, Dattatreya Temple, Pottery, JuJu Dhau (local yogurt).
3. Patan – City of Beauty
Patan, formerly known as Lalitpur, or the city of beauty, is an artistic city with a distinct identity. It has Nepal's most impressive collection of temples, statues, and palaces. Patan is an excellent site to buy jewelry, Buddha statues, and masks because it is a traditional handicrafts hub.
Best Time to Visit: All year round
Prime Highlights: Patan Durbar Square, Patan Museum, Krishna Temple, the Golden temple.
4. Pokhara – Something for everyone
Pokhara is undoubtedly one of Nepal’s top tourist places and attractions for 2022. This second-largest city blessed by Mother Nature never misses impressing with its tranquil lakes, mystical mountain tops, and spectacular landscapes. The lakes reflecting the ideal skyline of snow-capped mountains and azure skies create wonderful postcard moments. It is the city providing much-needed relief from the hustle and bustle of city life while yet allowing you to enjoy all of the amenities you deserve. It is also the beginning point for the popular Annapurna Treks.
Other than the enthralling beauty, Pokhara also offers a variety of thrilling activities, particularly for adrenaline junkies, such as white water rafting, zip-line, and some of the best paragliding on the planet.
Best Time to Visit: All year round
Prime Highlights: Phewa Lake boating, famous landmarks sightseeing, adventurous sports, Himalayan views, and sunrise and sunset views.
Best Popular Treks in Nepal for 2022
Trekkers will discover a range of trekking alternatives throughout Nepal, with the Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang regions being the most popular. And, you might wonder why these are the candidates of Nepal’s top tourist places and attractions for 2022, if they are already popular. The below described work as the answer to your question.
1. Everest Base Camp Trek
The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the world's most well-known treks. The journey to the base camp is one of the most spectacular and beautiful experiences in the Himalayas, exploring the rugged trail via the stunning Khumbu region. The beauty of the stunning mountain panoramas is definitely worth the trek. The magnificent sight of the sun rays striking the mountain faces is an image to be treasured for a lifetime.
Many trekkers aspire to reach the Everest Base Camp, and 2022 would be the finest year to do so while avoiding the boredom brought on by the pandemic. Its renown is well-deserved, given its history, varied and beautiful scenery, the trails and the accommodation of the highest quality, and the Sherpa culture you'll encounter on the climb.
Best Season: Spring & Autumn
Elevation: 5,545 m at Kalapatthar/5,364 m at EBC
2. Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a less challenging version of the EBC Trek that may be done in less time and with less difficulty, but it is just as popular. Falling in the list of classic treks in the world, ABC trek offers breathtaking breath-taking mountain views as well as the opportunity to learn about Nepali culture, local people, and their way of life, see awe-inspiring glaciers, rest on the banks of pristine rivers, go through alpine pastures, and visit natural hot springs.
The trek takes you through the temperate and alpine forests, streams, highland grasslands, and rocky terrain punctuated by grand mountain peaks of Annapurna I (8091 m), Annapurna South (7219 m), Machapuchhre (6993 m), and Hiunchuli (6441 m).
Overall, it is the journey that a trekker will never forget, where the benefits greatly outweigh the challenges.
Best Season: Spring & Autumn
Elevation: 4130 m at ABC
3. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is one of the most popular in the Annapurna Sanctuary since it is one of the easiest, a shorter, circular walk through hot springs and pleasant local villages. The Poon Hill trek is a wonderful way to acclimate before tackling one of the more difficult treks like the Annapurna Circuit or the Annapurna Base Camp Treks. It's an excellent path for inexperienced hikers and those who simply want to have a taste of Nepali hiking. The hill station is popular for the sunrise, giving unrivaled views across soaring Himalayan peaks like the curtains being brought back on a stage.
Best Season: Spring & Autumn
Elevation: 3210 m at Poon hill
4. Langtang Trek
Although there are no 8000m peaks in this area, the Langtang Trek has been on many trekkers' bucket lists for decades. Beautiful trails through the sparse pinewoods with waterfalls, the Rhododendron blooms, yak farms, open skies, and glaciers as well as the Langtang people's dwellings and Langtang Lirung rising above 7000 meters contribute to the journey's attractiveness. The trip takes you through Langtang National Park, which is known for its pristine landscape, beautiful flora and animals, yak farms, and local cheesemakers. This region is home to Himalayan pheasants, Himalayan deer, Himalayan bears, monkeys, and the rare red panda. The settlement of Kyangjin Gompa bordered on all sides by snowy peaks and the cultural mix of Newari, Hindu, Tamang, Bhotia, and Sherpa groups are the prime highlights of this journey.
Best Season: Spring & Autumn
Elevation: 4800 m at Kyangjin Ri
Must do Underrated Treks in 2022
Everest and Annapurna Treks are the most popular treks in Nepal. However, there are a plethora of hidden trekking trails here just waiting to be discovered by adventurers. Trekking on the underrated trails would be icing on the cake as you can perhaps gain richer insights into what life is like here, beneath the great snow mountains of Nepal, allowing them to include spiritual and recreational experiences into their adventure.
1. Upper Mustang Trek
Upper Mustang is one of the remotest regions in Nepal bordering the Tibetan plateau, which is rich in Tibetan culture, particularly in the old city Lo Manthang. And trekking to the Upper Mustang is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get a taste of the actual mountain people's secluded lifestyle. The trek's main draw is the region's historical significance as well as its rich natural assets. The walk takes you across a spectacular semi-arid desert with colorful rock formations, ancient caves, holy fossil rocks, abandoned land territory, deep ravines, and snow-capped peaks all around you. History, culture, myth, and mythology all combine beautifully with breathtaking surroundings.
Best Season: Spring, Summer & Autumn
Elevation: 3840 m at Lo Manthang
2. Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu Circuit trail is one of the best treks in Nepal and can be a great alternative to the ABC trek. It is both culturally enriching and scenically inspiring, despite its remoteness and physical demands. The wilderness, serenity, seclusion, monasteries, suspension bridges, off-the-beaten-path, and mountain views, especially Mt. Manaslu and Ganesh Himal deserve to be explored. The journey also provides an opportunity to learn about the region's rich local heritage and biological diversity. The 'Larkya La Pass,' one of the most stunning routes traversing the Himalayas, is the primary highlight and highest point on the Manaslu Circuit trek.
Best Season: Spring & Autumn
Elevation: 3840 m at Larkya La Pass
3. Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is less exposed and less congested. The circuit goes around both the north and south base camps of Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586 m). The journey rewards trekkers with insights into remoteness, wilderness, and solitude on the world's third-highest mountain. It is a great chance to experience the isolated virgin off-the-beaten-path and the culture and customs unaffected by modernization. It features a diverse spectrum of beautiful landscapes, from lush tropical jungle to rhododendron, lush meadows, chestnut, pine, birch, and oak woods, and all the way up to the glaciated lap of the world's third tallest peak.
Best Season: Spring & Autumn
Elevation: 5388 m at Kanchenjunga North Base Camp
4. Upper Dolpo Trek
Upper Dolpo receives a very limited number of tourists. It is, however, one of the most stunning treks in Nepal's isolated Himalayan region. Lying between the Tibetan plateau and the Dhaulagiri Himalayan range, the hidden Dolpo region provides a challenging walk through a magical, Buddhist corner of Nepal rewarding threefold in the remote landscapes, incredible views from 5000m passes, and the experience of a deeply spiritual, untouched culture, and a fascinating race of Tibetan-speaking people.
Best Season: Spring & Autumn
Elevation: 5,151 m at Kang La Pass
5. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
The Dhaulagiri Circuit is one of the finest treks to the hidden gem of Nepal. This round trek is considered Nepal’s one of the most difficult yet breathtakingly gorgeous off-the-beaten-path treks. The circuit of Mount Dhaulagiri (8,167m), the sixth tallest in the globe passes across two high passes above 5000 meters: the French Pass at 5240 m and the Dhampus Pass at (5155 m). The high alpine pastures, uninhabited valleys, high mountain passes, dense woodlands, and terraced hills fill the tracks and trails of the Dhaulagiri region. It is breathtaking and fascinating at every stage.
Best Season: Spring & Autumn
Elevation: 5200 at French Pass
Mark the calendar for the 2022 Spiritual Visit in Nepal
Nepal is a one-stop destination for nature, culture, and tradition. Alongside, Nepal's naturally rich landscape boasts a variety of such destinations where spiritual practice can be pursued in its purest form. Come and see Nepal's top tourist places and attractions for 2022 as a spiritual side for a true Nepal experience.
1. Pashupatinath Temple
The renowned Pashupatinath Temple is amongst the oldest in Nepal. Located on the outskirts of Kathmandu, this Hindu pilgrim is crowded with more than a million Hindu devotees from all around the world on the auspicious day of Maha Shivaratri. This Pagoda-styled temple, believed to be built in the 17th century, is a significant religious icon and a symbol of spiritual force in the words of the religious visitors. The holy Bagmati River flows close to this temple surrounded by the lively markets, filled with half-naked Sadhus and thin-looking Hindu priests. The devotees visit the site to seek the divine deity’s blessing.
2. Boudhanath Stupa
No other stupa in Nepal compares to Boudhanath in terms of grace and line purity. The monument is precisely proportioned, from its whitewashed dome to its gilded tower decorated with the Buddha's all-seeing giant eyes. Its 13 level spire represents the steps that a person must go through to reach nirvana. The massive Boudhanath stupa serves as a horizon between the earth and the sky, providing a portal to heaven. The morning and evening koras while singing mantras and the butter lamps lights illuminate the area.
3. Kopan Monastery
Kopan, located on a mountaintop north of Boudhanath, is well-known among Westerners for its Tibetan Buddhism courses. Visitors come from all over the world to attend courses and to experience the spiritual ambiance of the study and practice center. Kopan is the ideal location for Buddhism study, meditation, and sightseeing. The air is fresh, the environment is peaceful away from hustle and bustle, and the view of the valley is breathtaking from here. It is open for serious scholars, casual visitors, and retreaters.
4. Lumbini
The calm atmosphere of Lumbini in the Kapilavasta area is ideal for meditation. It is the most targeted destination of the Buddhist pilgrims as it is proved to be the birthplace of the ‘Enlightened One’, Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism and one of history’s most respected personalities. Lumbini is one of the holiest sites in one of the world's great faiths, and its ruins contain valuable information regarding Buddhist pilgrimage. It is the place to go for the archeological, religious, or cultural site seekers. More than 40 monasteries were built by different countries around the sacred Mayadevi Garden to learn Buddhism and meditation.
5. Muktinath Temple
Muktinath Temple in the Annapurna Region is one of the fantastic destinations shared in peace by devotees of two world religions: Hinduism & Buddhism. Muktinath literally means liberation, and it is a destination where followers believe they must visit at least once in their lives. Not only for the devotees, but this religiously and spiritually significant location is open for all the visitors seeking peace, liberation, and harmony.
6. Janakpur Dham
Janakpur Dham is prominently known for its grand Janaki Temple, a Hindu site dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Sita. Receiving a large number of Hindu pilgrims from all over the world, especially from India, it can be one of the unique destinations for others. The temple’s mixed style of Mughal and Hindu architecture, colored glass, engravings, and Mithila paintings, with beautiful lattice windows and turrets, are worth seeing. Temples and monuments aren't the only things to see in Janakpur. The city's rich cultural history, arts, language, and literature are very notable.
Best places for short/day hikes around Kathmandu in 2022
Not all hikes need to be lengthy and strenuous to be memorable. A short and easy walk can be as exciting as the long one. The following are some of Nepal’s top tourist places and attractions for 2022 to hike around Kathmandu Valley. These hikes are suitable for individuals who only have a limited time in Nepal but wish to experience Nepali trails, or for those who do not want to go on long and arduous treks for Himalayan views and to learn about the Nepalese countryside's way of life.
1. Nagarkot Hike
Nagarkot is 32 kilometers east of Kathmandu, offering one of the best panoramic mountain vistas, including Everest. The hill, which lies at 2195 meters above sea level and overlooks the Kathmandu Valley, is ideal for nature enthusiasts. A day would not be enough to truly appreciate the area's grandeur. Multiday excursions to Changu Narayan Temple, Dhulikhel, Sankhu, and the surrounding hills are also possible from here.
2. Phulchowki Hike
The highest hill near Kathmandu is Phulchowki at 2782 meters. The hike to the hill located to the south of Kathmandu is very rewarding. Starting from the Godavari, it's a four-hour moderate climb. The trail through sub-tropical thick forests with rhododendrons and oak trees is rich in a variety of flora, fauna, and wildlife. On clear days, you can see the eastern parts of the Annapurna range all the way to Gaurishankar in the east from the top of the mountain.
3. Champadevi Hike
Champadevi Hill is the third highest hill around Kathmandu at a height of 2278 meters on the western slope of the valley. The hike ascents through pine woodlands to the pilgrimage site, which includes a Buddhist stupa and a Hindu shrine. This 5-6 hours long journey is a unique opportunity to see 'the entire Kathmandu valley along with Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Kirtipur, and Pharping. Mountain ranges such as Mt. Ganesh, Mt. Langtang Lirung, Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Gaurishankar, and Mt. Everest can all be seen from this hilltop. Other than the landscape views, it is also a good opportunity to learn about people’s culture and traditions.
Top places for short/day hikes around Pokhara in 2022
Pokhara is the starting point for Nepal's most popular hiking routes. Aside from long days of trekking, Pokhara offers a variety of short or day hiking alternatives. You get to get as near to the Himalayas as possible without compromising time, energy, or any hassles. Additionally, while going past picturesque mountain communities, get a peek of country life. Hiking around Pokhara will be one of the most memorable vacation experiences you'll have in Nepal. Also, if you enjoy photography, these short treks from Pokhara will come in handy.
A day trek in Pokhara provides sweeping views of the Annapurna range, as well as a comprehensive insight into the lives, history, culture, and religion of the locals. Some of these hikes are the candidates of Nepal’s top tourist places and attractions for 2022, appearing to be similar, but the approach paths are distinct.
1. Sarangkot Hike
Sarangkot is one of the most popular hill stations of Pokhara as well as the best vantage point in the area. Sarangkot hike is the shortest and easiest hike from Pokhara which is mostly uphill from lakeside which takes around 3 hours. The hilltop is famous for the sunrise and sunset view as well as a 360-degree view of the Himalayas including Annapurna, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Lamjung, and Hiunchuli. Also, a stunning view of the Pokhara valley can be experienced from here. This journey is great for individuals who want to get a taste of the Himalayas without having to trek for lengthy amounts of time on a difficult track. It is also a popular destination for Paragliding.
2. Dhampus Trek
Dhampus is a traditional mountain village that offers a glimpse of Nepali village life as well as spectacular Annapurna Range view and Himalayan sunsets and sunrises. A 2-day trip up to Dhampus Hill is a quick but enjoyable adventure. A few hours of walk from the Pokhara city via sparse settlements, field terraces, and forests is Dhampus, greeting you with the close-up view of the Himalayas including Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Lamjung Himal, and Machhapuchhre. Along with the mountain peaks views, this traditional hike provides one of the most scenic paths and a countryside experience.
3. Ghandruk Village Trek
The Ghandruk Village Trek is an excellent trekking choice that is usually completed in three to four days. Ghandruk Village would be one of Nepal’s top tourist places and attractions for 2022. The spectacular view of the Himalayan peaks such as Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre, can be seen from the village. It's a popular spot for treks in the Annapurna region and is the starting point for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The trek to this typical Gurung village lets you learn about Gurungs and their ethnic customs and lifestyle. The trail is easy with no steep ascents and descents and any age group can do it without any hurdles.
These were the amazing list of Nepal’s top tourist places and attractions for 2022 with astonishing facts just as the tip of the spear.
The Conclusion
Nepal is a diverse country that anyone would love. It is quenched between the two powerful geographies of China and India but it shines on its way. It is a mysterious county with mysterious traditions, mysterious people, and of-course mysterious landscapes, to name a few things. Nepal is a fascinatingly diversified country that draws tourists for a variety of reasons. Some come for the mountains, expecting to climb or trek in the Himalayas, while others are drawn to the culture and the famous city of Kathmandu, and yet others come in search of spiritual awakening. Nepal can be an adrenaline rush, a cultural awakening, a life-changing experience, or a combination of the three. In a nutshell, this is the country beyond expectation.
