Nepal is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and historical significance. Each destination tells a story and offers unique experiences. Here’s an extensive guide to major tourist attractions across Nepal, including details on entrance fees, timings, and intriguing facts.

Kathmandu Valley Attractions

Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)

Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)

Entrance Fee: NPR 200 for Nepalese; NPR 500 for foreigners.
Timing: Open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Fact: This ancient stupa is one of the oldest in the world, often referred to as the “Monkey Temple” due to the large population of monkeys that inhabit the area.

Boudhanath Stupa

Boudhanath Stupa

Entrance Fee: NPR 400 for foreigners; free for locals.
Timing: Open 24 hours; best visited during daylight hours.
Fact: Boudhanath is one of the largest stupas in the world and a significant pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists.

Pashupatinath Temple

Pashupatinath Temple

Entrance Fee: NPR 1,000 for foreigners; free for Nepali citizens.
Timing: Open daily from 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Fact: This sacred Hindu temple complex is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the four most important pilgrimage sites for devotees of the deity.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Entrance Fee: NPR 1,000 for foreigners; free for locals.
Timing: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Fact: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this area was the royal palace for the Malla kings and is a stunning showcase of Newar architecture.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Entrance Fee: NPR 1,500 for foreigners; free for locals.
Timing: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Fact: Known for its preserved medieval structures and traditional pottery, Bhaktapur is a city of culture and history.

Patan Durbar Square

Patan Durbar Square

Entrance Fee: NPR 1,000 for foreigners; free for locals.
Timing: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Fact: Home to the finest examples of Newari art and architecture, including the famous Patan Museum.

Changu Narayan Temple

Changu Narayan Temple

Entrance Fee: NPR 250 for foreigners; free for locals.
Timing: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Fact: Believed to be the oldest Hindu temple still in use in the Kathmandu Valley, this site is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Other Attractions and Cities

Lumbini (Birthplace of Lord Buddha)

Lumbini (Birthplace of Lord Buddha)

Entrance Fee: NPR 200 for foreigners; free for locals.
Timing: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Fact: Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Lumbini attracts pilgrims from around the world and features the Sacred Garden and various monasteries built by different countries.

Pokhara

Pokhara (Gateway to the Himalayas)

Major Attractions:
- Phewa Lake: No entrance fee; boating charges apply.
- World Peace Pagoda: Free entrance; usually open from sunrise to sunset.
- Sarangkot: Free to visit; ideal for sunrise and sunset views.
Fact: Pokhara is known for its adventure tourism, including paragliding, trekking, and stunning views of the Annapurna range.

Chitwan National Park

Chitwan National Park

Entrance Fee: NPR 2,000 for foreigners; NPR 1,000 for SAARC citizens.
Timing: Open year-round, from dawn to dusk.
Fact: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Chitwan is famous for its biodiversity, including the one-horned rhinoceros and Bengal tiger.

Bandipur

Bandipur

Entrance Fee: Free.
Timing: Open year-round; best visited in spring and autumn.
Fact: A timeless hilltop town that showcases traditional Newari architecture and offers panoramic mountain views.

Rara Lake

Rara Lake

Entrance Fee: NPR 300 for foreigners; free for locals.
Timing: Open year-round; best from April to October.
Fact: The largest lake in Nepal, known for its breathtaking beauty and alpine surroundings.

Sagarmatha National Park (Everest Region)

Sagarmatha National Park

Entrance Fee: NPR 3,000 for foreigners; NPR 1,500 for SAARC citizens.
Timing: Open year-round; best from March to May and September to November.
Fact: Home to Mount Everest, the park offers diverse ecosystems and stunning trekking opportunities.

Janakpur

Janakpur

Entrance Fee: Most sites are free; small fees may apply at some temples.
Timing: Open year-round; temple hours vary.
Fact: Janakpur is associated with Hindu mythology as the birthplace of Sita, and it is famous for its colorful temples and cultural significance.

Gosaikunda

Gosaikunda Lake

Entrance Fee: NPR 100 for foreigners; free for locals.
Timing: Open year-round; best visited during the trekking season (April to October).
Fact: A sacred alpine lake, Gosaikunda is a popular trekking destination and is significant in Hindu mythology.

Dhulikhel

Dhulikhel

Entrance Fee: Free.
Timing: Open year-round; best for sunrise and sunset views.
Fact: A charming hilltop town known for its stunning views of the Himalayas and rich Newari culture.

Nagarkot

Nagarkot

Entrance Fee: Free.
Timing: Open year-round; best during sunrise and sunset.
Fact: Famous for panoramic views of the Himalayas, particularly Mount Everest, it is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Bardia National Park

Bardia National Park

Entrance Fee: NPR 2,000 for foreigners; NPR 1,000 for SAARC citizens.
Timing: Open year-round.
Fact: Lesser-known than Chitwan, Bardia offers a more remote wilderness experience with diverse wildlife, including tigers and elephants.

Kakani

Kakani

Entrance Fee: Free.
Timing: Open year-round.
Fact: A hill station near Kathmandu, known for its views of the Langtang range and popular for picnics and easy hikes.

Important Notes:

Payment Methods: Entrance fees should typically be paid in cash (Nepalese Rupees) upon arrival. It’s advisable to carry small denominations when traveling.
Dress Code: When visiting religious sites, ensure modest dress and remove your shoes when entering temples.
Guided Tours: Hiring local guides can significantly enhance your understanding and appreciation of the cultural and historical context of each site.

GET HELP (HELP CENTER)

Frequently asked questions.

Are entrance fees included in guided tours?

Yes, Entrance fees are generally included in the tour package prices.

What should I wear when visiting temples and religious sites?

It is essential to dress modestly. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid shorts. In most temples, you will need to remove your shoes before entering.

Can I use my credit card to pay for entrance fees?

While some major attractions in cities might accept credit cards, most entrance fees need to be paid in cash (NPR). It’s recommended to carry sufficient cash, especially when visiting more remote areas.

What are the popular activities in the Pokhara area?

In Pokhara, you can enjoy activities like paragliding, boating on Phewa Lake, trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp, visiting the World Peace Pagoda, and exploring caves.

Are there any cultural etiquette tips I should know?

Yes:

Always greet people with “Namaste” (hands in a prayer position).
Avoid pointing your feet at people or sacred objects.
It’s customary to ask for permission before taking photos of people.

Nepal’s attractions combine stunning natural beauty with rich cultural history, making it a diverse and exciting destination for any traveler. Whether exploring the vibrant streets of Kathmandu, witnessing the tranquility of Pokhara, or trekking in the Himalayas, each experience is unique. Be sure to include these various sites in your itinerary to fully capture the essence of Nepal.

If you have any questions or need assistance with your travel plans, feel free to reach out!

Nepal Attractions: Fees & Timings