Nepal is truly a must-visit country in this world. A country brimming with some of the highest mountains in the world, spectacular scenery, golden temples, jungle, and picturesque villages. Also called trekker’s paradise, Nepal host incredible treks in the lap of the Himalayas. There is hardly any country that match the beauty of Nepal when it comes to the mountains. That said, there are amazing short hikes and tours for old people, and even young people can choose to trek or hike or indulge in a wide array of adventures.
Regardless of the time of the year, travelers can visit Nepal and head to the mountains, stroll the narrow alleys of the city that lead to historic sites or simply hike on the outskirt of Kathmandu. Although spring and autumn is considered the best time, there are still plenty of things to do in Nepal in winter and monsoon as well.
Although almost every trekker plan their visit to Nepal during the spring and autumn season, there are plenty of adventure doable during summer and monsoon. Yes, there are summer treks in Nepal that you can embark on and monsoon trips you can enjoy. Treks like Phoksundo Lake Trek, Upper Dolpa Trek and Tsum Valley Trek can be done during summer time. Similarly a short trip to Chitwan and Bandipur and trek like Upper Mustang Trek can be easily done in monsoon season. That said, here are some of the top places that you can visit in monsoon.
Kathmandu Valley
Kicking off the list, we have Kathmandu valley on top of the list. Kathmandu valley is home to 7 of 10 UNESCO world heritage sites, making it a hot destination even in monsoon. You can explore all these sites in just about a day or two. The city still sparks the beauty in the rainy days. In fact, the monsoon season make it more interesting to explore Kathmandu valley. However, hike or ride is not suggested in monsoon due to slippery road, and poor visibility.
Pokhara
Everyone loves Pokhara, the city of lake. Also called gateway to Annapurna, Pokhara is arguably the most popular tourist destination in Nepal. Many tourists prefer to stay in this city rather than Kathmandu. It is just a flight away from Kathmandu; one can reach Pokhara in just 6-hour drive from Kathmandu. You can hike up to Sarankot during monsoon to enjoy a breathtaking sunrise view from Sarankot viewpoint. Besides there are many places in Pokhara to vist like Davis Fall, Sarangkot, Phewa Lake, Gupteshwor Cave, and Poon Hill to name a few.
Lumbini
Lumbini is known as the birthplace of Gautam Buddha and is listed as one of the World Heritage sites listed by UNESCO. In monsoon season, you can visit Lumbini and admire greenery of Lumbini after rainfall. Maya Devi temple, Eternal Peace Flame (Shanti Deep), Ashoka Pillar, Lumbini Museum, and World Peace Pagoda are some of the major highlights of Lumbini. Lumbini sees more pilgrims than travelers, however, no doubt you can visit this place without any problem.
Upper Mustang
Upper Mustang is one of the favorite destinations for trekkers. This region welcomes hundreds of trekkers every year. Good news is that you can do this trek even in monsoon for the reason that this region lies in rainshadow area; it never rains in Mustang. Upper Mustang trek takes you to Lo-Manthang, a forbidden kingom brimming with otherworldy beauty and historical significance. Anyone can do this trek, even in winter. So without a doubt, you can trek or ride to Upper Mustang in monsoon.
Dolpa
Another travel destination during monsoon is Dolpa. It is the biggest district of Nepal. The perk of traveling to Dolpa is the stunning views of towering peaks like Dhaulagiri, Kanjirowa and surronding peaks. Majority of travelers travel to Dolpa region to explore Phoksundo lake that gives a heavenly andscape during the monsoon. The remote villages, dramatic landscape and enticing culture of Dolpa region can entice anyone.
Bandipur
Bandipur is Nepal’s charming town and living museum of Newari culture. Only few hours’ drive away from Kathmandu, Bandipur is a must-visit place in Nepal. And unquestionably, it is one of the popular tourist destination to visit during monsoon. You can easily reach Bandipur from Kathmandu. Bandipur boasts 18th-century houses, green hills, amazing valleys and caves. The laidback vibes of this place is second to none. Nowhere else can you find the ambiance and beauty of Bandipur in Nepal. You can do paragliding or do short hiking around the hill in Bandipur. Thani Mai Temple, Tundikhel, Sidda Gupha Cave, and Bindhyabasini temple are the major attraction of Bandipur.
Chitwan National Park
Another travel destination during monsoon is Chitwan, a beautiful city in the Terai region of Nepal. Home to Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO world heritage site in Nepal, Chitwan is a major attraction of Nepal, drawing nature-lovers from across the globe. Do jungle safari, and grab an opportunity to encounter animals like one-horned rhinos, deer, monkeys and wild elephant. It will be a great deal to spot a majestic royal Bengal tiger in Chitwan National Park.
