As an American travel blogger who is keen on exploring the world, I have always been yearning for the mysterious country of Nepal. It is like a lost pearl, quietly inlaid in the southern foothills of the Himalayas, exuding a unique charm, attracting countless travelers to set foot on this land and explore its wonders. Finally, with full expectations, I started this dream trip to Nepal.
Pre-trip preparation guide
For visas, make sure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months and apply for a Nepal tourist visa in advance. For clothing preparation, you can choose flexibly according to the travel time and destination. Comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothing and sunscreen products are essential. Medicines are also key. Bring basic and commonly used medicines such as cold medicines, painkillers, and digestive medicines to be prepared. Cash and credit cards should be prepared in advance, prepare enough cash, and ensure that credit cards can be used normally in Nepal. In addition, it is crucial to purchase a comprehensive travel insurance, which can escort your journey and deal with possible unexpected situations.
By the way, don’t buy phone cards at the airport. It is easy to find sales points in the Thamel area, and the price is more affordable. Remember to bring a power adapter plug, as the local voltage is 230V, and the socket type is different from that in China. Daily necessities such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, sunscreen, etc. are not provided by most hotels, so you need to bring your own. Also, the sun in Nepal is strong, so you must have enough sunscreen items to avoid the excitement of traveling.
Diversified Transportation Guide
To Nepal, there are two main modes of transportation: air and land. By plane, most international airports in and out of Nepal are Kathmandu International Airport, such as Qingdao, Guangzhou, Kunming, Chengdu, Hong Kong and many other places in China, as well as many overseas destinations. There are direct flights, which are convenient and efficient. This time I took Qatar Airways, which has 3 flights between Doha and Kathmandu every day, with thoughtful service and comfortable on-board experience. For land transportation, people usually leave the country from the Jilong Port in Tibet. Starting from Lhasa, go to Jilong Town first, then go to the port to pass the customs, and then take local transportation to Kathmandu. However, the journey by land is long and time-consuming, and you may encounter altitude sickness. There is heavy dust on the road and many checkpoints. You need to be physically and mentally prepared. However, you can enjoy the scenery of Tibet, pass by Mount Everest, Shishapangma, Pekucuo and other beautiful landscapes, and experience the Nepalese style in advance, which is also an unforgettable experience.
In terms of currency exchange, the exchange rate at the airport exchange is relatively stable, which is not much different from that in Kathmandu. RMB can also be easily exchanged for Nepalese rupees at local exchange offices, and the exchange rate at Chinese restaurants is often more favorable. Phone cards can be applied for at operator outlets in the city or Kathmandu International Airport. Remember to bring your passport and apply for it in your real name. Nepal mainly has two types of phone cards: Ncell and NTC. Ncell has fast network speed and is easy to use in big cities; NTC has strong signals and is more reliable for calls in the mountains.
Nepal on the tip of the tongue
Nepalese cuisine combines Indian, Tibetan and local flavors, which is unique and will surely make your taste buds cheer. The first one to come to mind is Dal Bhat, which is Nepal’s “national delicacy” and is a must-have for almost every meal. This staple food is stewed with rice, beans and vegetables. It looks simple, but it is rich in nutrition and has distinct taste. The beans are stewed soft and glutinous, and the soup is rich and mellow. Pour it on the steaming rice and pair it with refreshing vegetables. When I tasted it in a small restaurant in Kathmandu, I saw the locals skillfully mix the food with their right hands and eat it with relish. I followed the local customs and the simple taste is still unforgettable.
Momo is a popular snack in Nepal, similar to Chinese dumplings, but with a unique flavor. Its skin is soft and chewy, and the filling is usually made of meat (common beef, lamb, chicken) or vegetables and spices carefully prepared, with a wide variety of varieties. When eating, dip it in a special sauce, or steam, fry or deep-fry, and every bite is juicy and intoxicating. Small shops selling momo can be seen everywhere on the streets of the Thamel area. They are freshly made and steaming hot. The price is affordable and should not be missed.
There is also Nepalese milk tea, which is an indispensable drink in the daily life of Nepalese people and a must-try delicacy for tourists. Nepalese milk tea is generally made by adding fresh milk to black tea. After cooking, the tea leaves are filtered out to retain the mellow tea soup. The milk and tea aromas are perfectly blended and the taste is silky. Some shops will also add spices such as ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon to create a unique flavor with a fragrant aroma that makes people still want more after drinking it all. In the early morning, in the streets and alleys of Kathmandu, locals can be seen sitting in front of small stalls everywhere, holding a cup of steaming milk tea in their hands, starting a beautiful day. You might as well blend in and feel the comfort.
Highlights of scenic spots
Kathmandu: The interweaving of history and faith
Kathmandu, as the capital of Nepal, is like an open-air museum, carrying thousands of years of history and profound religious heritage. Durbar Square is the heart of the city, with ancient palaces and numerous temples scattered in it, as if telling the glory of the past. Here, you can see the essence of Nepal’s architectural art, the wood carvings and stone carvings are exquisite, and every detail shows the craftsmanship of the craftsmen. Walking through the square, it seems like time has gone back, and you can truly feel the weight of history and the sacredness of religion.
The Monkey Temple, officially known as Swayambhunath Temple, is located on the top of a mountain in the western suburbs of Kathmandu and is one of the oldest Buddhist holy places in Nepal. There are not only ancient pagodas and solemn Buddha statues, but also groups of monkeys, who are either playing and fighting, or sitting in meditation, adding a bit of agility and fun to this temple. Standing on the top of the mountain, overlooking the entire Kathmandu Valley, the hustle and bustle of the city and the tranquility of the valley form a sharp contrast, making people can’t help but indulge in this unique scenery.
The cremation temple, that is, Pashupatinath Temple, is one of the most important holy places for Hinduism in Nepal. Along the Bagmati River, the deceased are cremated in the open air, which is a necessary ritual for the soul to be liberated and enter reincarnation in the eyes of Hindus. Although the scene may shock outsiders, in the hearts of locals, this is a sacred and solemn farewell to life. Visitors can watch quietly on the other side, feel this unique understanding of life and death, and ponder the true meaning of life. It is worth mentioning that the strong earthquake in Nepal in 2015 caused varying degrees of damage to these precious historical sites. However, with a firm belief in cultural heritage, the Nepalese people are gradually and carefully repairing these treasures with the assistance of the international community to give them a new lease of life. Today, many damaged buildings have basically been restored to their original appearance, continuing to carry history and faith and welcome visitors from all directions.
Pokhara: A paradise for nature and adventure
Pokhara is undoubtedly a paradise for nature lovers and explorers. Phewa Lake, the picturesque waters, is the soul of Pokhara. The clear blue waters of the lake reflect the surrounding green mountains and trees, like a huge mirror. Rent a colorful boat, drifting on the lake, the breeze brings a touch of coolness, and makes people forget all their worries. The Annapurna snow-capped mountains in the distance shine with holy light under the sunshine, and set off against the Phewa Lake, forming a dreamlike and beautiful picture.
Fishtail Peak, famous for its unique and elegant appearance, stands on the skyline like a fish tail jumping out of the water. Although it is not the highest mountain in Nepal, its steep figure and mysterious temperament attract countless mountaineering enthusiasts and photography enthusiasts. In the early morning, when the first ray of sunlight shines on Fishtail Peak, the peak is dyed golden and shining. The shocking beauty is unforgettable.
As a great place to watch the sunrise in the Himalayas, Sarangkot welcomes many expectant tourists every morning. Before dawn, everyone gathered here and stared at the east with bated breath. As the sun slowly rises, the golden light gradually lights up the continuous snow-capped mountains. From Annapurna to Dhaulagiri, the snow-capped peaks are covered with golden coats one after another. The whole world seems to be enchanted and becomes extremely magnificent and brilliant. At that moment, language becomes pale and powerless. The only way is to immerse yourself in the majestic power of nature and feel the shock and baptism of the soul. Here, I have witnessed the magnificence of the sunrise with my own eyes. When the golden sunlight shines on the snow-capped mountains, the emotion that surges in my heart is still unforgettable. It is the purest awe and praise for nature.
Chitwan: Exploring the primitive jungle
Chitwan National Park, like a green pearl, is hidden deep in the plains of southern Nepal. It is a precious treasure given to mankind by nature. This is the kingdom of wild animals. Rare species such as Asian rhinoceros, Bengal tigers, elephants, crocodiles, etc. thrive here. When you step into this jungle, it seems to travel through time and space and return to the primitive world. The dense forests, vast grasslands, and winding rivers exude a mysterious atmosphere everywhere.
Riding an elephant through the jungle is one of the most classic experiences in Chitwan. Sitting on the back of an elephant, you can slowly shuttle through the dense vegetation and observe the life of wild animals up close. You may encounter a leisurely one-horned rhino or a group of lively deer. This opportunity to get close to wild animals is both exciting and thrilling.
Going down the river in a canoe is another unique experience. The boat glides on the quiet river, with dense jungle on both sides. From time to time, you can see crocodiles lying on the shore to bask in the sun, or various rare birds perched on the branches. At this time, you need to keep quiet so as not to disturb the owners of these jungles, and quietly feel the tranquility and harmony of nature.
Jeep safaris allow you to go deeper into the hinterland of the jungle and explore the mysteries hidden deep inside. Under the guidance of an experienced guide, follow the traces of wild animals and feel the thrill and excitement of jungle exploration. Every discovery and every encounter is like opening a door to a mysterious world, making people full of awe for the magic of nature. Chitwan National Park is not only the home of animals, but also an important classroom for humans to understand nature and protect ecology. Every moment spent here will become an unforgettable memory in life, allowing you to deeply understand the true meaning of harmonious coexistence between man and nature.
Accommodation Recommendations
In Nepal, different regions have unique accommodation options that can meet the needs of all kinds of travelers. In the Thamel area of Kathmandu, it is a gathering place for tourists and there are many types of accommodation. Like the Kathmandu Marriott Hotel, it belongs to the Marriott Group and has first-class service quality. The hotel’s buffet is rich and varied, and the rooftop infinity pool is a highlight. Swimming in it, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the city. There is also the Holiday Inn Express Kathmandu Naxal, which is very cost-effective, with warm and friendly staff, delicious breakfast, convenient travel, and complete surrounding supporting facilities, providing tourists with a comfortable and convenient stay experience.
As a popular tourist destination, Pokhara is very popular for lakeside accommodation. Sunshine Resort Pokhara is located in a unique location, close to Phewa Lake, and you can see the intoxicating lake and mountain scenery when you go out. The rooms are spacious and bright, with complete facilities. You can breathe fresh air on the balcony in the morning and look at the snow-capped mountains in the distance to start a beautiful day. Himalayan Front Hotel by KGH Group faces the Himalayas. You can enjoy the magnificent mountain scenery while lying in bed, especially the beautiful figure of Fishtail Peak. The hotel also provides free shuttle buses to facilitate tourists’ travel. The service is considerate and thoughtful, making your vacation time in Pokhara more comfortable.
Accommodation in Chitwan is closely connected with nature. Chitwan Adventure Resort is located in the small town of Chitwan, not far from the National Forest Park. The environment here is elegant and quiet. It is a summer garden-style hotel, as if it is a paradise in the hustle and bustle of the world. The hotel also provides off-road jeep tours of the National Forest Park, allowing you to easily start your jungle adventure. The restaurant offers Western-style food, delicious and affordable dishes, which can replenish energy for tourists and bring satisfaction to their tongues. There is also Kasara Resort, where the single-family courtyard-style rooms are unique, and the open-air swimming pool adds a leisurely atmosphere for vacation. The surroundings are simple and rustic, and the famous Chitwan National Forest Park is on the other side. You can get in close contact with nature and feel the unique charm of the primitive jungle. Staying here, you can fall asleep with the chirping of insects and birds at night, and be awakened by the first ray of sunshine in the morning, and immerse yourself in the embrace of nature.
Shopping Guide
Nepal is simply a dream paradise for shoppers, with a wide variety of special products that are dazzling. Handicrafts are the first to bear the brunt, and wood carvings, stone carvings, thangkas, etc. are exquisite. Wood carvings are mostly made of high-quality wood such as sandalwood and camphor wood. The patterns of Buddha statues, animals, flowers, etc. are lifelike, and every texture is full of the craftsman’s hard work; stone carvings are made of marble and granite, and the Buddha statues and gods are solemn and solemn, showing the sacredness of religion. Thangka is a treasure of Tibetan culture, with bright colors, rigorous composition, profound religious implications, and extremely high artistic value.
Tea is also a must-buy item, and Nepalese high mountain tea is of excellent quality. It grows on the southern foot of the Himalayas. The high altitude, unique climate and fertile soil give birth to a unique flavor, rich aroma and mellow taste. Whether it is for your own tea tasting or as a gift to relatives and friends, it is quite suitable.
There are also traditional costumes, saris, Daula Suruwar and other very charming. Saris are colorful and exquisitely patterned. A long piece of cloth is wrapped around a woman to create an elegant charm, and paired with exquisite jewelry, it fully demonstrates the feminine beauty; Daula Suruwar is a representative of Nepalese men’s traditional clothing. The top is as long as the thigh root, the trousers have a large crotch and narrow trouser legs, which is quite distinctive.
As for shopping places, the Thamel area of Kathmandu is a shopping mecca. There are many shops here, from handicrafts to clothing, from tea to spices. However, you must learn to bargain when shopping here. Generally, it is more reasonable to bargain down by two-thirds. There are also many specialty shops in Pokhara, Patan and other places, where you can find many treasures, waiting for you to slowly explore and discover, and start a happy shopping trip.
Nepal, a land full of mystery and charm, carries the weight of history in every inch and exudes the fragrance of nature in every place. From the ancient temples in Kathmandu to the magnificent snow-capped mountains in Pokhara, from the primitive jungles of Chitwan to the special delicacies of various places, Nepal shows its charming charm to the world in its own unique way.
Whether you are a pilgrim seeking spiritual tranquility or an explorer eager to challenge the limits; whether you are a scholar who loves humanities and history or a photographer who is fascinated by natural scenery, Nepal can meet your expectations and give you an unimaginable travel experience. Pack your bags and set foot on this magical land to unveil the mysterious veil of Nepal and start your wonderful journey. I believe it will leave a strong and colorful mark in the depths of your memory and become an unforgettable beautiful memory for a lifetime.
