Nepal has perhaps the world’s most diverse range of outdoor environments. This small Himalayan nation rises from an altitude of only 70m in its southern Terai region, which borders India, all the way up to the highest point on earth atop Mount Everest at 8,848m, forming the border with Tibet to the north. And this dramatic rise all takes place within 230km from south-to-north!
Nepal’s borders contain all five major climatic zones – from tropical to arctic – creating a rich range of locales and a stunning array of outdoor opportunities. There’s something for everyone that has an affinity for the great outdoors. Whether you’re a world-class athlete looking to climb one of the world’s highest peaks (eight of 14 are in the country), a weekend-warrior mountain biker who enjoys casually spinning the wheels, a rafting enthusiast who wants to plough down ragging rapids, or a nature lover wanting to take the beauty in from a balcony or atop an elephant, this nation has you covered.
Kathmandu is the entry point for most travelers and a natural place to begin exploring. In addition to being the capital, there’s a range of outdoor activities you can enjoy in its greater valley, reducing the amount of additional travel needed to get into the great outdoors. Mountains surround the city and many of them are within National Parks, keeping them well-treed, green and perfect locations for outdoor fun. Local tour companies can easily arrange transport and a guide for nearby mountains, where you can enjoy anything from a half-day outing to a multi-day exploration.
Shivapuri National Park, on the north end of the valley, is one of the premier outdoor areas to explore and one of the easiest to access. A multitude of tribal villages cover the mountains throughout the park, creating an ethnically diverse backdrop for your adventure. From hiking to the top of Shivapuri Peak (an all-day affair) to more gentle walks through villages like Dandagaon, an ethnic Tamang village, you can be out and back in a half or full-day, quickly leaving the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu’s dynamic streets behind.
Consider taking a ride to the top of Kakani, a mountaintop outpost where you can then hike, or better yet, mountain bike the infamous Scar Route across to Chapali Bhadrakali and ultimately to Kopan Monestary. This is a big day out but one you’ll remember for years. Much easier hiking and mountain biking can be arranged right in the valley itself, offering a good dose of culture and fun, often starting and ending right at your hotel’s doorstep.
Being such a physically steep nation, whitewater rafting is a staple in Nepal with lots of companies offering big fun on raging rivers. Class 4 and 5 rapids can be run north of the city along the Bhote Kosi River, one of the country’s premier sites for rafting. Coupled with a night at one of the area’s many country resorts and perhaps a 160m-bungee jump at the Last Resort, this region just a few hours north of the capital is a dream. For an easier river ride close to the city, head NW to the Trisuli River and bump your way down fun class 3 rapids.
Himalaya mountain watching is a classic activity, easily done from atop the mountains surrounding the Kathmandu Valley. While visibility changes dramatically throughout the year, November to February provides crystal clear skies and March to April, while a bit hazy, is still pretty good. Nagarkot, a nice peak on the northeast end of the valley, is a perfect spot to dig in for a couple days at a comfy resort, sit on your balcony with a good book, binoculars and marvel at the mighty Himalaya Mountains in the distance.
Animal lovers stand a pretty good chance of seeing rhinoceros and tigers, within a short flight to either Bardia or Chitwan National Parks. Both are well managed, offer a range of quality accommodations and most provide safari experiences. You’ll get the chance to spot wildlife from 4×4, elevated blinds and even atop an elephant!
Whether you have just a few days, a week, or a full month or more to enjoy Nepal’s great outdoors, there’s something for every taste and ability that’s sure to dazzle your outdoor senses.
Agoda has you covered in Nepal. Head to http://www.agoda.com/asia/nepal.html to book your trip!
Nature Lovers Love Nepal
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