Exploring Nepal’s Natural Wonders: 20 Must-Visit Naturally Beautiful Places In Nepal
Are you searching for a place that can take you away from the commotion of the cities? If yes, welcome to Nepal, which has been inviting travelers from around the globe with its naturally beautiful places. Known around the world as the birthplace of Buddha and Mecca for climbers and trekkers, Nepal is perhaps a country that has the largest concentration of naturally beautiful places. No wonder Kathmandu, the capital, has been declared by UNESCO to be an open-air city museum. From the gigantic Himalayas to lush green valleys and tranquil lakes, Nepal is synonymous with its naturally beautiful places.
Nepal is rich for its amazing culture, amazingly friendly and hardy people, and, of course, stunning nature. Here, the tropics border with rhododendron forests, and the polar desert and alpine meadows border with steep slopes. The centuries-old cedars, spruce, and juniper covered these slopes everywhere. Charming tiled houses coated with clay among the rice terraces, endless caravans of loaded yaks on mountain paths, and suspension bridges over roaring streams rushing into the abyss can steal the heart of any traveler.
Acquaintance with Asian architecture and culture, mountain trekking, mountaineering, rafting, paragliding in Pokhara, safari in Chitwan National Park, pilgrimage to the birthplace of Buddha, and agritourism. Where else could romance and religion, everyday life, and sublime mysticism merge in such harmony? Only in Nepal- known for its natural beautiful places untouched and undisturbed by modern civilization.
In this article, we have listed 20 naturally beautiful places in Nepal that you must visit once in a lifetime. These naturally beautiful places in Nepal will show you why this country is called a paradise for nature lovers. So let’s get started.
Top 20 Naturally Beautiful Places In Nepal
- Everest Base Camp (EBC)
- Annaupurna Base Camp (ABC)
- Upper Mustang
- Langtang Valley and Langtang National Park
- Rara lake and national park
- Mardi Himal
- Helambu
- Manaslu region
- Tsum Valley
- Panch Pokhari Lake
- Gosaikunda Lake
- Gokyo Lake
- Poon Hill
- Ghandruk
- Tilicho Lake
- Chitwan National Park
- Pokhara
- Nagarkot
- Lumbini
- Kathmandu Valley
1. Everest Base Camp (EBC)
Everest Base Camp Trek is listed as one of the top naturally beautiful places in Nepal. It’s because Everest Base Camp (EBC) offers nature lovers and thrill seekers a unique chance to connect with nature. EBC allows you to explore one of the most extraordinary landscapes in the world. EBC will allow you to be surrounded by the highest roof of the world Mount Everest. It will help you get close to some of the best works of Mother Nature.
There is no doubt that EBC is famous for Mount Everest, but it is also known for the Sherpa people and their hospitality. It is also famous for the highest Buddhist monasteries, picturesque villages, and a wide variety of cultures and traditions.
During the trek to Everest Base Camp (EBC), you will follow the footsteps of Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary. The tour to EBC begins from Lukla, and the trek will take you through beautiful valleys full of vegetation and fauna, the land of the legendary Sherpas, to the Sagarmatha National Park. You will follow the classic route Namche Bazar, Khumjung, Pangboche, and Lobuche to Everest Base Camp. You can also continue to Kala Patthar, which offers the best panoramic view of Everest and the Khumbu glacier.
Related Tour: 7 Days EBC Trek
2. Annaupurna Base Camp (ABC)
If Mount Everest is the King of the Earth, then Mount Annapurna is the queen who settles smiling with its dangerous beauty in Annapurna Base Camp. The ABC has been the second most popular trekking destination after the EBC trek. It is situated on the lap of the Annapurna Range and lies within the Annapurna Conservation area. The highest altitude you will gain on the ABC trek is 4130 m. From this elevation, you can have some of the spectacular views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli.
The journey to ABC will take you through phenomenal landscapes, passing yellow paddy fields, lush rhododendron and juniper forests, and some elegant waterfalls and rivers. The warm hospitality, culture, and tradition of indigenous Gurungs and Magars will captivate your heart. What’s more, your tour to ABC begins from Pokhara- the city known to the globe as Tourist Paradise. You will then pass through charming villages like Ghorepani and Tadapani. When you reach ABC, not only will the magnificent views of the Himalayas enchant you, but the serene atmosphere will also heighten your experience.
3. Upper Mustang
Upper Mustang Trekking is listed as the third most naturally beautiful place in Nepal, as the village has remained untouched by modern civilization. Until 1992, it was closed to tourists, and today, you can only get there as part of an organized group. Till then, this little valley remains lost in Nepal. This isolated mountain valley is located at an altitude of over 3000 m and is surrounded by sky-high mountains. They protect the Mustang from the penetration of thunderclouds, so the region is quite dry, and rain is very rare.
Therefore, it is the high mountain desert, but in the summer, we will see many colorful colors – the valleys bloom and turn green only two months a year. And there is something to see here: the Himalayan landscapes, which make an indelible impression. Likewise, it is here that thousands and thousands of caves have been carved into the soft rocks, and now, as in ancient times, Buddhist ascetics can be found in the caves. That’s why you can see the longest Mani walls, cave cities, and the most ancient Buddhist monasteries.
4. Langtang Valley and Langtang National Park
Langtang is truly a mystical gem of the country, securing its place on our list of naturally beautiful places in Nepal. Langtang is a mountainous region in Nepal located north of Kathmandu within Langtang National Park. Its altitudinal dominant is the peak of Langtang Lirung (7234 m). Subtropical forests grow in the mountain valleys, where pandas, bears, and monkeys live. Higher up, forests give way to alpine meadows. They are decorated with entire plantations of rhododendrons.
Langtang National Park is inferior in height but surpasses the well-known Sagarmatha National Park in the beauty of the landscape and the richness of flora and fauna. The protected area covers an area of 1710 square kilometers in the central region of the Himalayan region. The national park opens a window into the mysterious country of ancient monasteries, temples, forgotten cults, and ancient religions. The sacred lake Gosainkunda, a magical place of power, keeps its secret at an altitude of 4380 m. Being a pilgrimage center, the lake has become a kind of intersection point for tourist routes and pilgrim paths worldwide.
5. Rara lake and national park
Rara is the smallest national park in Nepal, with an area of 106 sq km, but it is proud to be Nepal’s largest and deepest lake. Rare animals such as musk deer, red panda, and Himalayan bears live on the banks and slopes of the surrounding mountains. Since the lake’s height is 3000 meters, rhododendron oaks are found in the forests; blue pine and juniper grow higher.
In addition, the water of Lake Rara shines blue, is surrounded by hills and mountains, and, due to its remoteness, is still untouched by tourism. Therefore, it is still a quiet and peaceful place that radiates energy, and it is ideal for relaxation and self-reflection. It is a place where time will always stop with you.
If you take this journey to Rara, you will experience a unique culture and panorama different from the rest of Nepal. The trip begins in the remote area of Jumla. The trail leads through the villages of Sinja and Ghorosingha, and the path ends at the tranquil Lake Rara.
6. Mardi Himal
Opened for trekking in 2012, Mardi Himal used to be the hidden gem of the Annapurna Region Treks, which remains untouched by mass tourism. During your trek to Mardi Himal, you will pass through dense fir and maple forests and settlements. This tour will allow you to observe ancient traditions and culture while enjoying the natural beauty of the mountains and mountain landscapes. The Mardi Himal will allow you to enjoy the panorama of the Annapurna massifs, Machapuchare (Fishtail), Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, and Mardi Himal itself at 5587 m.
Besides the views, the landscapes are also beautiful, passing through forests, small Buddhist temples, settlements of local people, hanging bridges, rice fields, and valleys.
7. Helambu
Helambu is an area of great natural beauty located 80 kilometers northeast of Kathmandu. It is a place that remained naturally beautiful and unhurt by civilization while near the capital. A trip to Helambu is considered one of the shortest tours, taking 6 to 7 days. Still, you can observe the contrast in the landscape. As soon as you reach Helambu, you will be in the middle of the most abundant nature, surrounded by lush forests of rhododendrons, daisies, and pines.
All this with panoramic views of impressive snow-capped peaks such as Langshisa Ri, Gangchempo, Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, Sishapangma, Dorje Lhakpa, Gauri Shankar, and even the Annapurna mountain range and Mount Manaslu. You can also see many wild animals, such as musk deer, the Himalayan black bear, herds of Tahr (Himalayan goat), or langur monkeys.
At the same time, you can also view a great cultural diversity that will allow you to observe rural Nepal, which mainly has Hindu villages in the lower areas. As you gain altitude, you will encounter Buddhist areas of the Sherpa inhabitants, such as the Hyolmo, which give their name to the valley. As mentioned before, it is not an area that receives many tourists. So it is a real luxury to explore these towns with their ancient monasteries that remain the same over time.
8. Manaslu region
Manaslu region has not gained popularity as the Annapurna region, but it is in no way inferior in beauty. In many respects, it even surpasses the beauty of Annapurna. Manaslu region remained unexplored till 1992 so this region is still uncrowded and remained authentic. That’s why, Masalsu has made its place in our list of naturally beautiful places in Nepal. Medieval Tibetan villages, turquoise lakes, and of course, the beautiful Manaslu are the highlights of this region.
You can also admire Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Lamjung Himal, Ngadi Chuli, Himalchuli, and Shringi Himal. As for the turquoise lakes, you can sit on the shores of Birendra and Ponkar lakes and immerse in the surroundings.
The natural beauty of the trek around Manaslu is replete with the original culture of the local residents – Gurungs, Tamangs, and Tibetans. They acquaint you with their ancient traditions and culture unspoiled by modernity. People still travel via mules and yaks, they are not lost in mobiles but are involved in archery competition. This is exactly the Nepal that is worth seeing.
9. Tsum Valley
The Tsum Valley, which juts deep into Tibet, lies in the Manaslu region between Shringi and Ganesh Himal. Siyar Khola River runs as a deep gorge and joins the tributary of the Budhi Gandaki. Opened for mass tourism only in 2007, the valley is still unaffected by modern tourist infrastructure. You can immerse yourself in the local life that has remained unchanged over the past few centuries. Traditional features such as manis, chorten, and ancient monasteries appear among villages with their own folk architecture.
Perched at an altitude of 2000 to 3500 m, the trail to Tsum Valley takes the traveler through gorges, very closed, humid forest areas, open river valleys, crop areas, and the beginning of high mountains. You can observe a variety of landscapes that make each day different. Belonging to the Manaslu Conservation Area, 11 types of forest, 2,000 species of plants, 110 birds, and more than 30 mammals have been cataloged in this valley. There are stable populations of mythical Himalayan animals such as musk deer, tar, and bharal.
10. Panch Pokhari Lake
Panch Pokhari Lake is an exquisite lake located in Sindhupalchok district of Nepal. Elevated at 4100 m above sea level, the lake nestled on the lap of Langtang National Park and, therefore remained protected and conserved. Because of the confluence of five sacred lakes: Bhairava Kund, Saraswati Kund, Ganesh Kund, Surya Kund, and Nag Kund, the lake got its name. Local inhabitants often name it the Lake of Five Angels. It is even listed as the ninth-highest wetland in the world. The expedition to this lake will take you through trails along the coast of the Indravati River. Every year at Janai Purnima in August, pilgrims from India and Nepal gather to gain spirituality here.
The tour to Panch Pokari commences from Kathmandu to Melamchi. From Melamchi, a 3-day hike will take you to Panch Pokhari. Unknown to the world, Panch Pokhari would have remained so if the Nepal Government hadn’t published its name among the 100 must-visit destinations in Nepal in 2022. Still, Panch Pokhari has remained uncontaminated, lodging can be found in some local guest houses. The long hiking course of 3 days, however is rewarded with the turqouise sacred water of the five lakes and the pious atmosphere of the nearby Mahadev Temple.
11. Gosaikunda Lake
Gosainkunda Lake is one of the most sacred lakes for Hindus in Nepal and India. Thousands of pilgrims pay homage to the lake every year. It lies in an off-limits trekking route in the Langtang-Helambu region. It is a circular journey of medium difficulty that runs through very wild areas. You can appreciate the rich flora and fauna of the Himalayan mountain range.
The route also passes through many traditional Nepalese villages along a very narrow road, which makes the trip an authentic adventure. The highest point of the Gosaikunda Lake trek from Langtang is marked by the Laurebina Pass (4,610 m). From here, you can see the 360° panorama of Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Shishapangma, Manaslu, and Annapurna.
Being less known and less traveled, the lake and its region a home to several wild animals, such as the Himalayan red panda, the musk deer, several types of monkeys, and the famous snow leopard.
12. Gokyo Lake
Seeking the distinct and less crowded trail in the Khumbu region, then trek to Lake Gokyo. Lake Gokyo has been successful in remaining as a hidden treasure even though it lies in the famous Khumbu region. Lake Gokyo is situated at an elevation of 4750 m and is known worldwide as the highest freshwater lake. It is not a single lake but a union of six freshwater lakes. Because of the conservation, the water of Gokyo Lake is still completely clear, and turquoise that rest reflecting the images of the surrounding Himalayas.
The Cho Oyu, aka the sixth highest peak in the world, cast a splendid panoramic view over the lake. Undoubtedly, it is a natural paradise for photographers, thrill seekers, and nature lovers. Therefore, Lake Gokyo has made its place on our list of naturally beautiful places in Nepal.
Besides, the Sherpa community still remained untouched by the mass tourists following the ancient tradition over the past few centuries. Therefore, you may not have the modern amenities, but you definitely can have the authentic natural feel and experience that will always call you to return.
13. Poon Hill
If you are looking for a breathtaking adventure into the magnificent landscapes, you should take a tour to Poon Hill. Poon Hill offers you scenic views of the picturesque villages, of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains. Here, you can immerse in the traditional culture of the Gurung and Magar people. A tour of Poon Hill can be the perfect combination of nature and culture that Nepal has to offer.
The highlight of Poon Hill is the impressive view of sunrise over the world’s tallest snow-capped mountains. The lush green and pink rhododendron forest, cool atmosphere, and chirping of birds greet you on the way to Poon Hill. Because of its natural beauty, and ease of access, Poon Hill has gained much popularity and has become one of the most popular treks in Nepal. Although touched by modernity, this place has still retained its natural beauty, for which we have recommended this place on our list.
14. Ghandruk
The village of Ghandruk is located in Kaski district, Gandaki zone, northern Nepal. It is a small village known for being a stopover during a trek in the mountain ranges of Annapurna. The trails that lead to and cross it are known for being relatively simple and, therefore, accessible to everyone.
Ghandruk benefits from a natural setting and breathtaking landscapes. The hike to Ghandruk is dotted with forests and Rhododendrons. It will take you through magnificent mountains and terraced crops, lead you to pretty waterfalls, and take you through the small villages of Landruk and Dhampus. All these sites come with a panorama of the high snowy peaks of Annapurna.
As you arrive at Ghandruk, you will immediately be welcomed by the broad smiles of the inhabitants. You will be seduced by its traditional houses with white walls and roofs covered in stone perched on the heights. The paths formed by stone steps will give you the impression of leading you straight to paradise towards the snow-capped mountains that stand out in the background.
15. Tilicho Lake
Tilicho is one of the highest mountain lakes in the world. It is located in the central Himalayas at an altitude of 4919 m in the northwestern part of the Annapurna mountain range. It lies near the foot of the Tilicho peak, elevated at 7134 m.
Lake Tilicho has an elongated shape from northwest to southeast; the length of the lake is 4 km, and the width is about 1 km. It is filled with meltwater from the Tilicho Peak glacier. Small icebergs are often visible on the surface of the lake. From December to the second half of April, Lake Tilicho is covered with ice. Probably at this time, when there are fewer tourists than in the spring season, there is the greatest chance of meeting a snow leopard on the shores of the lake. Blue sheep are also found here.
It is usually visited by leaving the popular route around Annapurna in the village of Manang. You can see beautiful views along the way to Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and Khangsar Kang. The area itself is not yet touched by bulldozers and tractors. You can just sit here, observe the local life, and understand the surroundings, warming your soul.
16. Chitwan National Park
Chitwan National Park, located at the foothills of the Himalayas, is the last remaining example of the natural ecosystem of the Terai region. The park covers the subtropical lowlands. Chitwan National Park was included in the World Heritage List in 1984.
This park has exceptional natural beauty with breathtaking landscapes covered with varied vegetation and the Himalayas. It has the highest population of different species and is the primary habitat for the Bengal tiger and great one-horned rhinoceros.
In this park, you can have fun and stay overnight. Special houses for several people are provided to accommodate travelers. Due to the large area of the park and the animals living outside cages and enclosures, it is not possible to explore it on foot. You can choose a jeep as a vehicle or take an unforgettable ride on an elephant. The park area is under the conservation of the Nepal authorities. To get to it from the capital, you will need to cover a distance of two hundred kilometers.
17. Pokhara
Pokhara is a mountain resort, the vacation town of Nepal, and the capital of adventure tourism. The main attraction of the city is the beauty of Lake Phewa and its surroundings. Here, you can also rent a kayak or a boat so you can enjoy the beauty of the landscape when boating on the water.
You can approach the Tal Barahi temple in the middle of the lake. You can then visit the Lakeside, which provides an unmissable experience. The Lakeside tempts lovers of urban wandering with Nepali handicrafts and local delicacies.
Another attraction of Pokhara is World Peace Pagoda from where you can have a great view of Lake Phewa and the surrounding mountains. This place is appropriate for indulging in walking and meditation due to its endlessly peaceful atmosphere. Another attraction of Pokhara is Sarangkot, famous for paragliding. Gupteswor cave is another mystical natural formation in Pokhara. Here, you can experience both nature and ancient spirituality.
Davis Fall is another natural attraction of Pokhara which constitutes a magical waterfall descending into the underground tunnel. Likewise, Lake Begnas is another tranquil oasis for relaxation and rejuvenation. The lake is surrounded by natural green landscapes with still water of the lake reflecting the clear blue image of the sky and peripheral mountains. Being the natural gem of Nepal, Pokhara is listed as one of the naturally beautiful places in Nepal that you must visit.
18. Nagarkot
Not many words can describe the beauty of Nagarkot, which is located at an altitude of more than 2000 m. The natural view that this small town has to offer is dazzling. Inhabitants of this picturesque town lead their everyday lives literally above clouds. Located a mere 32 km from Kathmandu, this mountain town has a lot to offer. The views of the massive Himalayas from Annapurna to Everest are the main highlight.
An absolute must in Nagarkot is a visit to the Nagarkot View Tower. From this observation tower, you can have a beautiful view of the mountains, smiling in their glory. The tranquility you get here is priceless. You can often escape from the hustle and bustle of the cities. If you have the desire to explore local culture and spirituality, there are also some Buddhist and Hindu temples in Nagarkot. Visit the Kailashnath Mahadev Statue, an impressive 43-meter-tall Shiva statue, considered one of the largest in Asia.
You can carry out numerous activities in Nagarkot. You can explore nature, enjoy the sunrise and sunset, and absorb the spiritual atmosphere.
19. Lumbini
Lumbini is a sacred place where Buddha was born, an authentic, genuine Buddha-born place (no matter what our neighboring country says). it represents the roots of Buddhism and is now considered the most important pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
The pilgrimage site is located in the southern Terai and is very naturally shaped. Since 1997, Lumbini has also been listed among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The archaeological remains of the many temples and stupas represent important findings and insights into the history of Buddhism.
Lumibini is not only the holiest place but it is also one of the blessed places by nature. At the exact birthplace of Buddha stands Maya Devi temple, which is surrounded by a beautiful garden. Here, you will find numerous Bodhi trees (the type of tree under which Siddhartha Gautama found enlightenment and became the first Buddha). You can also see many typical, an ever-burning torches donated by the USA known as the Eternal Peace Flame. The quiet garden really exudes a very special, spiritual atmosphere.
The nearby park contains a large pagoda, the World Peace Pagoda, and 32 temples from different countries. Such as Japan, China, South Korea, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia and many other countries.
If you want to visit Lumbini, you can buy bus tickets at one of the many local tourist offices. Since Lumbini is located in southern Nepal, the climatic conditions are very different from those in Kathmandu Valley. In Lumbini, it is significantly warmer, and there is higher humidity compared to the capital.
20. Kathmandu Valley
Translated as a temple of wood. Kathmandu offers an atmosphere that can heal the soul. Holding religious and cultural importance, Kathmandu has a lot to offer. Colorful prayer flags wave between the houses of the city of four million people. Street vendors roast peanuts in earthenware pots, here and there monkeys jump on the electric wires, and married Hindu women walk in brightly colored clothes. All these are the common sites of Kathmandu city.
Kathmandu Valley is formed by three largest cities: Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur. All three cities hold significant historical and cultural importance. Each city has its own Durbar Square, which is included in a UNESCO Heritage Site.
Each Durbar Square has a royal palace, temples carved with Newari architecture, and museums where you can travel back in time. Taleju Temple, 55 Windows Palace, the Dattatreya temple decorated with sculptures of sexual themes from the Kamasutra, Bairavnath Temple, and Nyatapola Pagoda are the main attractions of Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
Again the royal palace with the courtyards of rare beauty, the Patan Museum, and the Golden Temple are some of the highlights of Patan Durbar Square. Kathmandu Durbar Square has Hanuman Dhoka, Kumari Ghar (Living Goddess), Taleju Temple, Kal Bhairav Statue, and Museum are some of the highlights of Kathmandu Durbar Square.
Apart from the Durbar Squares of three cities, you can visit Swayambhunath temple, aka Monkey Temple, and Pashupatinath Temple, where you can observe the cremation process near Bagmati river, Baudanath Stupa.
In addition, the valley also has spectacular views to offer to the nature lovers. The surrounding mountains create a magnetic view, especially during sunrise and sunset. The green lush vegetation and forest of Shiva Puri Nagarjun National Park act as a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Likewise, the Garden of Dreams stands as a historical garden decorated with perfectly trimmed lawns, fountains, and plants.
Kathmandu Valley stands as the perfect combination of urban life and natural beauty, where nature and modernity coexist peacefully.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there is no doubt Nepal is a testament to its naturally beautiful places. The diverse landscape, from green vegetation to the alpine desert, the Himalayas that literally take you to walk over clouds, serene lakes, and waterfalls, are some of the grandeur of this country.
Exploring these naturally beautiful places in Nepal is a journey that opens your soul with peace and tranquility. Not only places, but the inhabitants of the country, especially of remote villages still following the traditional ways of life inspire you and connect to the actual Earth.
It is surprising to see there are still places that are untouched by the irons, bulldozers, and tractors. The places that are still intact are bestowed by nature. Come, experience these beautiful places in Nepal, and be one of those fortunate to have the experience of opening a soul.
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