Top 10 Things To Do In Nepal Other Than Trekking

Visit the World Heritage Sites of the Kathmandu Valley

Kathmandu Valley, the capital of Nepal, has always been the heart of Nepal and lies in province no. 3. It was enlisted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 AD due to the rich cultural traditions of Newars, exceptional architecture, and harmonious coexistence of Hinduism and Buddhism. Kathmandu Valley is one of the most popular tourist destinations due to its ancient monuments, rich history, and culture. It houses seven out of the 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Nepal, hence is considered one of the most historically rich cities in the world. The Kathmandu Day Tour, being one of the best things to do in Kathmandu, Nepal, is an ideal tour package for those who want to discover magnificent historical monuments and immerse themselves in Nepal's rich cultural heritage.

• Kathmandu Durbar Square: Kathmandu Durbar Square, natively known as Hanuman Dhoka, is one of the three durbar squares in the Kathmandu Valley and is located in the heart of Kathmandu.It was the historic palace of the Malla kings and was later passed to the Shah kings after the unification of Nepal. Most of the structures here were built between the 15th and 18th centuries or even earlier. Some popular sites to visit here include Hanuman Dhoka, Taleju Mandir, the nine-storied Basantapur Tower, the Tribhuvan Museum, the King Mahendra Memorial Museum, and the Kal Bhairav Temple. Each of these buildings is decorated with stunning wood carvings, primarily influenced by Newari art.

• Pashupatinath Temple: Pashupatinath Temple is among the oldest and most important Hindu temples, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. For Hindus, it is among the most sacred locations. It is situated 6 km east of Kathmandu and is a two-story traditional pagoda-style building. Although there has been a Shiva temple on this site since as early as 879 AD, the present temple was built by King Bhupatindra Malla in 1697. Actually, this place is not one but a collection of temples, ashrams, parks, images, inscriptions, and a cremation zone.
• Bouddhanath Stupa: The biggest spherical stupa in the world is Boudhanath Stupa, sometimes referred to as Boudha Stupa. Located 11 km northeast of Kathmandu,  it was built around the 5th century A.D. Standing at a height of 36 meters, the stupa is a unique three-level mandala-style structure. During Buddhist festivals, thousands of devotees gather at this sacred site. Boudhanath Stupa bears some resemblance to the Swayambhunath Stupa, though its area is roughly three times larger. In 1979, it was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is now one of the most significant tourist attractions in the Kathmandu Valley.
• Swayambhunath Stupa: Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, is believed to be around 2,500 years old, making it one of the oldest monuments in Nepal. The structure symbolizes the four elements: earth, fire, wind, and water. The 13 rings of the spire represent the 13 steps of the ladder leading to Nirvana. To reach the holy site of Swayambhunath Stupa, visitors must climb 365 steps. The climb offers a stunning view of the Kathmandu Valley. Along the way, statues of the Buddha, mini stupas, monasteries, and monkeys fill the path to Swayambhunath stupa.
• Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Similar to Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square is another historic square in the Kathmandu Valley. It is located in the Bhaktapur district, also known as Bhadgaon, a unique city situated 13 km east of Kathmandu. The Bhaktapur Durbar Square complex consists of four distinct squares: Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square, Dattatreya Square, and Pottery Square. Together, these squares form what is collectively known as Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Some of the popular attractions here include the Lion's Gate, the Golden Gate, the Fifty-Five Window Palace, the National Art Gallery, the statue of Bhupatindra Malla, the Nyatapola Temple, and the Dattatreya Temple.
• Patan Durbar Square: Patan Durbar Square is located in the Lalitpur district, just 8 kilometers southeast of Kathmandu. It is one of the oldest cities in the Kathmandu Valley and the second-largest. Founded in the 3rd century, the city is often called an open museum due to its stunning Newari craftsmanship. The city is home to numerous Hindu temples and Buddhist monuments, featuring bronze gateways, guardian deities, and intricate carvings. Patan Durbar Square was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. Some of the most popular attractions include Krishna Mandir, Bhimsen Temple, Taleju Bhawani Temple, Mahaboudha Temple, Kumbeshwar Temple, Jagat Narayan Temple, the Pillar of Yoga Narendra Malla, and the Rato Machindranath Temple.
• Changunarayan Temple: Changunarayan Temple is a Hindu temple located in the Bhaktapur district of Nepal and is considered the oldest temple in Nepal. It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. The temple is situated on a hilltop, also known as Changu, and is believed to have been built around the 3rd century A.D. The area around the temple was once surrounded by a forest with champak trees and a small village called Changu. It is located 12 km east of Kathmandu and a few miles north of Bhaktapur.

Stroll through the streets of Bandipur Village 

Bandipur Village, also known as the “Queen of Hills,” is a picturesque hilltop settlement in the Tanahun district of Nepal’s Gandaki Province. Located at an elevation of 1,030 meters, it lies midway between Kathmandu and Pokhara, two major cities of Nepal. Visiting Bandipur is among the best things to do in Nepal with family. The village is known for its breathtaking views of the Annapurna mountain range, the Marsyangdi River valley, and its well-preserved Newari architecture. Bandipur keeps its historic appeal with 18th-century Newari houses, featuring wooden structures and slate roofs. The detailed windows add to the village's timeless beauty. The main bazaar is entirely pedestrian, creating a peaceful environment free from modern traffic and preserving the feel of an 18th-century trading post.

Popular Things to do in Bandipur Village 

• Explore Siddha Gufa- One of the biggest caves in South Asia
• Stroll through the Bandipur Bazaar - Known for its peaceful, traffic-free environment and well-preserved 18th-century Newari architecture
• Visit Padma Library- the oldest library in Nepal 
• Sunrise hike to Gurungche and Thani Mai temple 
• Enjoy the Newari architecture and cuisine 

Visit Lumbini the birthplace of Gautam Buddha

Lumbini is one of the most peaceful and spiritual places in the world, making it a top choice for anyone looking for spiritual things to do in Nepal. Known as the birthplace of Lord Buddha, this sacred destination is a must-visit for those who appreciate history, culture, and serenity. Lumbini is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important pilgrimage center that attracts peace-loving people from all over the world.

In Lumbini, you can explore over 200 historical and religious sites connected to the life of Buddha and the rich Buddhist culture. The Maya Devi Temple, the heart of Lumbini, is a sacred site where visitors can connect with its deep spiritual significance. This tranquil place is ideal for meditation, worship, and gaining wisdom. You can also participate in chanting sessions, listen to spiritual teachings, or simply enjoy the calm surroundings.

Go on a Jungle Safari in Chitwan National Park 

Chitwan National Park, established in 1973, is the oldest national park in Nepal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is considered one of the best places in Nepal for wildlife viewing and getting close to nature. Rare species are protected in this park, including the Royal Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, sloth bears, sambar deer, Indian peacocks, and gharials. Moreover, for the bird enthusiast, the park also is home to 500 species of birds and mammals of 68 varieties. Visiting Chitwan National Park is highly recommended as one of the best things to do in Nepal in December. Going on a wildlife safari to see animals in their natural habitat can be truly exciting, or you can enjoy a canoe ride down the Rapti River with opportunities to spot gharials. You can also try elephant bathing or visit the elephant breeding center.

Besides wildlife, you can enjoy the culture of the Tharu community in Chitwan. In the evenings, you can relax and watch the Tharu people perform their traditional dances, which are a great way to learn about Nepal’s rich culture. To make the most of your visit, you can choose a 2-night/3-day or 3-night/4-day package. This will give you plenty of time to explore the park’s beautiful forests, grasslands, and wetlands and enjoy everything Chitwan has to offer.

Experience Adventure sports in Pokhara 

Pokhara is often termed a mini heaven on earth. It combines natural beauty with culture in a way that makes it one of the best destinations in all of Asia for fun, relaxation, and adventure. Popularly known as the adventure capital of Nepal, Pokhara offers a wide range of activities and serves as a starting point for trekking in the Annapurna region.

Ghorepani Poon Hill, Annapurna Base Camp, Panchase, and many other famous destinations can be trekked from here. Other than trekking, Pokhara is famous for adventure sports. The most popular adventure activities among tourists are paragliding, bungee jumping, ziplining, white-water rafting, canyoning, kayaking, and rock climbing. Experiencing these adventure activities is one of the best things to do in Pokhara Nepal. Recently, hot air balloon rides have also gained popularity in Pokhara, making it the most adventurous destination in Nepal.

Visit the Medieval Towns of Panauti and Dhulikhel 

Panauti is one of the oldest and most historical towns in Nepal. It houses many ancient temples dating back to the 15th century or even earlier. Panauti is situated at the confluence of two rivers, Rosi and Punyamati. These two rivers are considered sacred in Nepali culture, and visiting or taking a bath in these rivers is believed to wash people's sins away. The town is a mix of Buddhist and Hindu religious monuments and is an important medieval site in the area. People often call Panauti the "small Bhaktapur" because of its ancient Newari houses and rich culture. It is just as beautiful as other historic cities in Nepal but is less crowded and touristy. Unlike Bhaktapur, visiting Panauti does not require a ticket so it is among one of the free things to do in Nepal.

Dhulikhel is one of the famous tourists' destinations and lies about 30 kilometers east of Kathmandu Valley. It is an ancient city which has been alive for centuries. The town is popular for its stunning views of the mountains that surround this place, such as mountains like Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Ganesh Himal, Mt. Langtang, and others. It is also famous for its cultural and religious sites, which include Bhagawati, Kalidevi, Gita Mandir, and Gaukhureshwor. Dhulikhel is an excellent place for hiking, with the day hike known as Nagarkot-Dhulikhel being the most famous. One can also go for a hike to Panauti or Kavre village. The town is also a great destination for enjoying sunrise and sunset views.

Take a scenic Himalayan flight 

If you don't prefer hiking but still want to experience the stunning Himalayas in Nepal, a mountain flight or a day helicopter tour is a great option. One of the most popular mountain flights in Nepal is the Everest Mountain Flight. It’s about a 1-hour journey that offers amazing views of the Himalayas, including mountains like Everest (8,848 meters), Lhotse (8,516 meters), Nuptse (7,855 meters), Cho Oyu (8,188 meters), Makalu (8,485 meters), Ama Dablam (6,812 meters), Pumori (7,161 meters), and even Himalayan glaciers. This is one of the best ways to experience the dramatic Himalayas from the sky.

However, with a mountain flight, you can see the mountains only from above in the sky. If you want to get closer, then the helicopter tour is the best option. You can land directly at Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal,  Kala Patthar, or any other place you want. Although it is quite costly, it is one of the most unique things to do or experience in Nepal.   

Yoga and Meditation 

Nepal is considered one of the best destinations for yoga and meditation, and the two most famous places are Kathmandu and Pokhara. Now, along with them, one can book yoga treks to meditate in the quiet surroundings of the Himalayas with expert yoga instructors. With the natural environment, sacred places related to great yogis, and qualified yoga masters, Nepal has become one of the prime yoga destinations. In addition, the benefits of yoga and meditation have been proved, such as an improvement in sleep, a reduction of stress and anxiety, body image, emotional regulation, and cognitive functioning. They also help in treating depression, compassion, relationships, self-knowledge, attention, willpower, heart disease, inflammation, blood pressure, and many more.

Thousands of tourists visit Nepal every year to experience yoga trekking along with various health benefits from yoga practices. Several famous yoga retreats are located in the Kathmandu Valley, includes the Nepal Yoga Academy, Nepal Yoga Home, Himalayan Yoga Nepal, Shanti Yoga Ashrama, Mandala Yoga Studio, and Hamsada Yoga Ashrama.

Explore Bhaktapur and Nagarkot 

Bhaktapur is one of the three main cities in the Kathmandu Valley and one of the major Newar settlements in Nepal. It lies just 12 km east of Kathmandu and has been the political center of the Malla dynasty from the 12th to the 18th century. The Malla period gave rise to the growth of a rich society and culture, particularly among the Newars. Now, this is reflected in its urban design, religious beliefs, caste systems, arts, and rituals of the city. Bhaktapur is known for its well-preserved religious, royal, and traditional architecture, mainly at Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It also hosts a unique Newar tradition, food, and skill. Exploring Bhaktapur is one of the primary things to do while visiting Nepal.

In the Bhaktapur district, Nagarkot is located 32 km east of Kathmandu and 15 km from Bhaktapur. Situated at 2,200 meters, it offers a peaceful atmosphere, great hiking routes, and views of peaks like Melungtse, Gauri Shankar, and Langtang Ri. Nagarkot is ideal for day trips or an overnight stay to enjoy the Himalayas and visit Bhaktapur. 

Explore the Tea Gardens in Ilam

Ilam is a beautiful hill station located in eastern Nepal, known for its scenic beauty, lush tea gardens, and cool climate. It is often called the "Queen of Hills" because of its stunning landscapes, including gentle hills, green forests, and peaceful rivers. The town is famous for its tea production, with various tea estates offering guided tours for visitors to explore the process of tea making.

In addition to the tea gardens, Ilam is home to several attractions like the Ilam Tea Garden, Kanyam, the beautiful Ilam bazaar, and the sacred Pathibhara Temple located on the top of a hill. The area is also rich in cultural diversity, with ethnic groups like Limbu, Rai, and Magar. It's an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and experience the peacefulness of nature. Ilam is one of the best things to do in Nepal with family, offering opportunities for relaxation, exploration, and cultural immersion. 

Conclusion 

Apart from trekking, Nepal offers incredible diversities, which include a number of varied experiences for every kind of tourist. The top 10 things to do in Nepal include rich cultural heritage through various UNESCO World Heritage Sites, spiritual journeys of sacred places, incredible wildlife at national parks, adventure sports, and immersion in local traditions.

While most travelers focus on mountain landscapes, Nepal presents opportunities for cultural exploration, wildlife encounters, relaxation, and personal growth. From the ancient temples of Kathmandu Valley to the peaceful tea gardens of Ilam, from wildlife safaris in Chitwan to spiritual retreats in Lumbini, the country provides a multifaceted travel experience that goes far beyond typical mountain expeditions. These diverse experiences showcase Nepal as more than just a trekking destination.