Vacations in Nepal: 10 reasons to go in 2023

1- Trekking in Nepal, the trekkers' paradise

Trekking is one of the essential activities in Nepal, whether you go alone or as part of a customized trip with a travel agency. How could it be otherwise with such a nature! There is something for all tastes and all types of trekkers, thanks to the geographical contrasts that characterize the country. The beginners can go through the plains of the Terai, in low altitude. A paradise for fauna and flora, with its rivers and thick forests. Crossing the valley of Pokhara, one passes from nature to charming villages, without forgetting the temples, like that of Manakamana. The most experienced easily opt for the Annapurna Tour, one of the most beautiful treks in the world, surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks. To leave to the conquest of Everest is a trek among the most mythical. It allows you to be close to the roof of the world and reveals panoramas of an incredible beauty.

2- Nepal, the place of choice for outdoor activities

A trip to Nepal is almost inseparable from outdoor activities. Once again, there is something for everyone, starting with rafting and kayaking. The upper reaches of the Himalayas are more prone to whitewater rafting. But peaceful rides are also possible on the rivers that cross the Terai or the Narayani area for example. Mountain bikers can choose to ride through the Kathmandu valley, crossing rice fields and observing temples. Or they can take on a more athletic challenge by going deep into Annapurna.

What could be more exciting than observing the Himalayan range and other landscapes of Nepal from the air? Paragliding, microlighting, flying in a tourist plane or even zip-lining are other possible activities in Nepal. Want to take on even more challenges? The cities of Pokhara, Kushma and Kodari are waiting for the most courageous to make the first (or umpteenth) bungee jump! Always in the heart of breathtaking landscapes.

3- Bird watching

If you are a birdwatching enthusiast, here is another good reason to plan a trip to Nepal in 2023. The country is home to more than 850 species of birds, that is to say 10% of the number of species in the world! The best places for bird watching are Chitwan National Park, Koshi Tappu Nature Reserve, Tamur River Valley, Dang River Valley and Ghodaghodi Lake. Wilderness areas where one can observe, depending on the location, the kestrel, the yellow-billed duck, the golden eagle, the great hornbill and even kingfishers. As bird watching has become a very popular activity in Nepal, specialized tours are now offered in national parks and wildlife reserves.

4- Take part in a safari in Nepal

Nepal is a wonderful territory to reach for wildlife observation. Its national parks and other protected reserves welcome travelers who wish to see and photograph many species in their natural environment. It is simple, the system put in place makes this country the one that best preserves endangered species in Asia. Among the places suitable for a safari in Nepal, let's first mention the Chitwan National Park. Its wet plains are home to the one-horned rhinoceros, Asian elephants, deer, Bengal tigers and crocodiles. Many of these species can be found in Bardia National Parkin the southwest of Nepal. This park remains less known and offers a more intimate walk.

5- Taking care of yourself through wellness activities

Numerous ancient Hindu writings attest that Nepal is a land where yoga and meditation have been rooted for centuries. Travelers can enjoy these wellness activities by joining yoga centers and ashrams, such as in Pokhara or Kathmandu. Yoga sessions can also be done in the wilderness, surrounded by mountains or green areas. Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha, is another good place for yoga and mediation. Ayurveda, a traditional Indian medicine, is one of the many traditions of Nepal. This ancient medical practice that focuses on the balance between mind, body and soul is a must see. Medicine centers welcome those who wish to set up a treatment protocol, including massages.

6- Try the gastronomy of Nepal

Between two walks on the trails of Nepal, you should not miss to enjoy the local gastronomy. In love with these moments around the table, we discover that Nepalese cuisine is made of healthy ingredients, organically grown, plants, spices, vegetables and meats. A gastronomy that has been influenced by India, Tibet and China. The dishes are often spicy, as spices are known to be good for the body and mind. Vegetarians and vegans also find proposals that meet their dietary requirements. Today, Nepalese restaurants perpetuate the traditions of Nepalese cuisine. But they do not hesitate to sublimate it with their techniques and their imagination. To give desire to discover the Nepalese savours, the dal bhat is the tradictional dish. A rice dish accompanied by a spicy lentil soup and vegetables, as well as meat or fish. Also served with rice and vegetables, Choyla is a grilled meat dish marinated with spices, lemon juice and herbs. Don't forget the momos, small crescent-shaped ravioli filled with vegetables or meat. They are served with tomato, peanut or pickled vegetable sauces.

7- Attend the ritual of a traditional healer

In Nepal, shamanic traditions date back to ancient times and are still alive and well. Those who plan to visit Nepal in 2023 and have the opportunity to do so should definitely take the chance to attend a traditional healer's ritual, such as that practiced by the Jhankris. These traditional shamanic healers use spiritual healing techniques to help people heal from various illnesses. The ceremony includes songs and a whole ritual around the communication with the spirits. A moment that allows you to discover another facet of Nepalese culture.

8- Discovering sound meditation

A spiritual practice often associated with the Buddhist culture of Nepal, sound meditation involves using sounds and vibrations to connect with oneself, the universe and calm the mind. One of the most common forms in the country is meditation with Tibetan singing bowls. These metal bowls that are struck with a mallet produce a harmonious and soothing sound. Participants are invited to focus on the sounds, their breathing, until they reach a deep state of relaxation. The sound meditation practiced in Nepal has the effect of improving sleep, reducing stress and anxiety, and promoting healing.

9- Take part in the Aarati ritual at Pashupatinath

While in Kathmandu, you must visit the Pashupatinath temple, a Hindu religious building located on the banks of the Bagmati river. It is considered as the most sacred temple of the Hindu Lord Shiva. Every evening, a passage in the temple is the occasion toattend the Aarati. This ritual sees a priest illuminate a clay lamp filled with oil and a cotton wick. It is then waved in a circular fashion dedicating the act to the divine. The ceremony is accompanied by chants and prayers of the faithful. Travelers can participate for a total immersion in a moment of thanksgiving to the divinity and discover once again the preponderance of spirituality in Nepal.

10- Going to Lumbini

Located on the border with India, Lumbini is the birthplace of Buddha. It is therefore an important place of pilgrimage for many Buddhists from all over the world who come to worship at the temple of Maya Devi. Classified as a Unesco World Heritage Site, this sacred site offers the possibility to see many Buddhist temples and monasteries. One can also walk through the park, pass through the gardens, meditate under the Bodhi tree and wash one's hands in the sacred waters. Visitors often continue their spiritual journey by participating in a meditation retreat. Of course, one can take advantage of this unmissable experience in Nepal to explore the surroundings of Lumbini, which is located in the heart of the sublime Terai plains.