Nepal is a country of absolutely astounding wealth, both naturally and culturally. When we think of Nepal, we think of Buddhism, temples, sādhus, but also the vertiginous altitudes and the immensity of the mountains.
If one assimilates - rightly - Nepal to trekking and spirituality, be careful, the country is not limited to it exclusively! Here are some tips to prepare your trip to Nepal, so that it can be, without a doubt, simply unforgettable.
Get lost in breathtaking Kathmandu
Kathmandu is undoubtedly the starting point of any trip to Nepal. A thousand and one contradictory things make Kathmandu a city as endearing as it is chaotic! Particularly appreciated for its temples and sublime stupas, it can be visited on foot, by rickshaw and possibly by taxi.
From the tourist district of Thamel to the bewitching Kopan Monastery overlooking the city, one cannot of course ignore the sublime and sacred Buddhist sites Swayambunath and Bodnath , which are among the most imposing in the world, but also on the unmissable Durbar Square and its incredible monuments classified as World Heritage by UNESCO. The fascinating Pashupatinath, where cremations take place, is worth a detour but beware, this is the time for meditation and discretion, out of respect for the families preparing the ceremonies. Sensitive souls will probably do better to abstain.
Discover the small villages of the Kathmandu Valley
Kathmandu continues to surprise its visitors even in its valley; the small villages, their charm and their history, embark in the heart of a real journey through time. “Choosing” which village (s) to visit can be difficult as there are so many in the valley and they can each seduce in their own way.
The combo Patan / Khokana / Bungamati can be an excellent choice for a close view of the capital and travel time to get there (the best solution is the taxi).
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Trekker in the heart of sumptuous and legendary mountainous landscapes
Nepal is undoubtedly THE trekking paradise, in particular because the country is home to 8 of the 14 highest mountain peaks in the world; and we are talking about peaks rising to more than 8,000 m altitude! It gives a brief idea of the landscapes that can be discovered on the move.
The main problem with the trek (apart from the fact that you have to walk) is that you have to choose it first? Venture to the peaks of the famous Everest or Annapurna? Or set off to discover regions a little less known such as Langtang, Manaslu or Mustang. While Everest base camp trekking is one of the most popular treks in Nepal. Everest base camp trekking takes you through some of the most stunning and legendary mountainous landscapes in the world. The trek starts from Lukla, a small town in Nepal situated at an altitude of 2,860m. From Lukla, the trailhead leads to Namche Bazaar, which is the gateway to Everest. The trail then winds its way through beautiful forests and meadows, past glaciers and waterfalls, and finally reaches Everest base camp at an altitude of 5,364m. The Everest base camp trek is an amazing experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. It is challenging, but the rewards are more than worth it.
Learn about spirituality in Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha
Located in the south of the country, very close to the border with India, the city of Lumbini is a place of pilgrimage where one goes, not for the charm of the village (which does not have any strictly speaking) , but for the spirituality that emerges from it. The Temple of Maya Devi (mother of Buddha) is usually a must-see for visitors to Lumbini, as is the immense park that surrounds it, and the various small temples scattered around, built by Buddhist communities around the world (many countries are represented, including France).
Paragliding facing the Annapurna range
If there is one “thrills” activity to do in Nepal, it is paragliding. Because it is especially in the region of Pokhara , starting point of treks in Annapurna, that this discipline is practiced; for good reason, we fly over the city and the Phewa Tal lake, with nothing less than the Annapurna chain as a backdrop!
Enjoy the peace of the small town of Pokhara
As long as you are in Pokhara for a paragliding flight, a trek, or both, you might as well enjoy the calm of Pokhara. The calm is very relative in Nepal, but in comparison with the madness of Kathmandu, we must admit that Pokhara is a peaceful city!
Explore the Nepalese jungle (Chitwan National Park or Bardia National Park)
Nepal is surprising, because despite the large mountain range that the country offers, you can also get lost in the heart of the Nepalese jungle and thus completely change the scenery and atmosphere.
Many agencies in Kathmandu and Pokhara offer ready-made “jungle tour” packs, including accommodation, transport, guide and visit. But it is also quite possible to fend for yourself by choosing your lodge directly.
The Chitwan National Park is usually the most visited park because closer to two major cities. The more adventurous, in search of authenticity above all, will perhaps prefer the Bardia National park, in the west of Nepal.
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Take a meditation and / or yoga retreat
No surprise, who says spirituality often means listening to your body and to yourself. Nepal stands out today as a destination of choice for those who wish to afford time, thanks to meditation, yoga, or both! A large choice of "retreat" possibilities exist in the Kathmandu Valley, in Pokhara, or in the countryside. Some temples offer it, as well as reputable organizations like the famous Vipassana.
Let yourself be surprised by Nepalese cuisine
Any traveler in Nepal must taste the culinary specialties of the country, the reverse would be almost a crime, but above all, would be impossible, especially for trekkers! Because on a trek, culinary diversity is not really in order. In the high mountains, the lodges do with the means at hand, which consist mainly of lentils and potatoes. The lens in Nepal is quite a story. The national dish is none other than dal bhat, a dish consisting of white rice and thick lentil soup, served with a vegetable curry and sometimes meat.
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