10 Best Places to Visit In Nepal In Winter Season

Nepal is a continuum of natural beauty starting from the rugged mighty mountains in the northern side and the green fields and plains on the southern side. Apart from the never-ending natural beauty, the land is also famous for its collection of adventure activities and the curtain of religious importance.

Are you interested in learning more about Fact of Nepal Country? Click the link, before you continue with the article. You can trek for days and have unique experiences, every single day. May it be a bungee jumping activity or sipping pink butter tea, Nepal has its own way of pleasing people. Are you looking for winter vacation destinations? Here is what Nepal will offer you, if you are visiting Nepal during winter.

1. Kalinchowk of Dolakha

Kalinchowk is famous among trekkers. This is the quickest possible way to get out of city life. This small high altitude destination is a winter paradise. This spot allows you to enjoy unique sightseeing activities and mild adventure activities. On the other hand, this destination is also famous for pilgrimage activities.

Are you into trekking? Try Travelogy India’s exclusive trekking package, 8 days – Nepal tour (Kathmandu Valley trekking).

kalinchowk-of-dolakha

How to reach from Kathmandu?

Kalinchowk is around 132 km away from Kathmandu. The closest that any vehicle can reach to Kalinchowk is up to Kuri Village. From the village, tourists have to hike for an hour to reach the destination. From Kathmandu, you can easily find buses to Charikot. From Charikot, you need private vehicles like jeep to reach Kuri Village. The route covers forest trails and traces of snow.

Top winter activities to relish

  1. Trekking
  2. Hiking
  3. Camping
  4. Visit to Kalinchowk temple to watch sunset from the top of the temple. If you visit during Janai Purnima festival, you can find numerous rituals in the temple.
  5. Try local millet brew named Jhwaikhattey
  6. Skiing

Must Read : Things to do in Nepal Kathmandu

2. Pokhara

If you are up for an adventure vacation and a land with spectacular natural beauty, Pokhara is right for you. This is a tranquil destination filled with lakes, backdrop of mountains, adventure sports and much more. Do you know that there is a museum dedicated to Gurkha soldiers? In addition, the place is the gateway to Annapurna ranges. If you are not familiar with Annapurna ranges, it is simply the dream of every avid trekker. It holds three of the top ten highest mountain of the world. Annapurna circuit is the pinnacle for trekking. Apart from this, you can find many temples, stupas and townships to visit in Pokhara.

pokhara-in-winter

How to reach from Kathmandu?

Pokhara is around 200 km away from Kathmandu. You can find direct flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara. On the other hand, you can also hire local or private buses, cabs or train to reach Pokhara from Kathmandu. The best option of all is the night tourist buses, which operate during peak tourism season.

Top winter activities to relish

  1. Trekking is a major activity here
  2. Visit to Pagodas, temples and stupas
  3. Visit to museums like natural history museum, Enthnographic museum, Gurkha museum and others
  4. Enjoy water touch bungee jumping
  5. Paragliding
  6. Skydiving
  7. Base jumping
  8. Rock climbing
  9. Birdwatching

Pokhara Travel Guide

Suggested Tour :

3. Nagarkot

Nagarkot is a small village, located in the central region of Nepal. It is famous for the clear view of Himalayas and for being the home for numerous species of butterflies. 8 out of the 13 ranges of Himalayas can be viewed from here. This is possible during winter and summer seasons. The right time for viewing the mountains are from October to December and from March to April. Are you planning to visit Nagarkot? Try our five day – Nepal tour covering Kathmandu, Nagarkot and Bhaktapur.

nagarkot-winter

How to reach from Kathmandu?

Nagarkot is just 32 km away from Kathmandu. It would take 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach Nagarkot via the Araniko Highway. The cheapest way to reach Nagarkot from Kathmandu is by hiring local buses. You can also find tourist buses from Kathmandu, every day. Some adventure lovers enjoy trekking or cycling to Nagarkot from Kathmandu. The most expensive way to reach Nagarkot from Kathmandu is by taxi.

Top winter activities to relish

  1. Hiking
  2. Trekking
  3. Nature walk
  4. Paragliding
  5. Sunset and sunrise viewing
  6. Cycling

Suggested Tour :

4. Bandipur

This is one of the most charming town regions of Nepal. This is the right place to enjoy Newari culture, traditional houses and much more. The locals have taken additional effort to safeguard the culture of the land. You can find many attractive temples and structures of yesteryear. The land is located at medium elevation. Thus, winter will not be very harsh and at the same time, you can enjoy many interesting views of the mountains around it. The land has become home to many people from different parts of the region. Thus, numerous festivals are celebrated with zeal in Bandipur.

Bandipur

How to reach from Kathmandu?

Bandipur is 148 km away from Kathmandu. It would take 4.5 hours to reach via the Prithvi highway. You can find buses and cabs from Kathmandu to Bandipur. If you are taking local bus, you need to get down at Dumre and catch another bus to Bandupur (30 minutes ride)

Top winter acktivities to relish

  1. Visit to silk farm and orange orchard
  2. Visit to temples and sh
    ops in the village center
  3. Hiking
  4. Downhill trekking
  5. Cave exploration

5. Poon Hills

Poon hill is an epic viewpoint in Nepal. It is a popular trekking destination for those on a short Nepal trip. If you are visiting in winter, cold is a barrier here. However, you should know that the land becomes more beautiful during winter. Poon Hill is also best for enjoying the native culture and for unique photography experiences.

Poon hill

How to reach from Kathmandu?

It is around 117 km away from Kathmandu. The most common way to reach Poon Hills is to take a flight to Pokhara from Kathmandu. From Pokhara, you can find buses and cabs to reach Tikhedhunga. From Tikhedhunga, you have to trek to Ghorepani for five hours and from there, you can start your Poon Hill trekking experience. Are you an avid trekking? You can find buses and cabs from Kathmandu to Nayapul. From Nayapul, you can reach Birethanti via walk and start the trekking trip.

Top winter activities to relish

  1. Trekking
  2. Camping

Do you want to try other short Nepal trips? Try our short packages covering Nepal destinations.

  1. 4 days – Nepal tour
  2. 5 days - Nepal Itinerary

6. Kakani

This valley is famous for many towers of Nepal. Some love to travel to the rim of this valley to get a clear view of Himalayas. Located at 2073m, this is a quieter place compared to other magnificent tourist destinations. The place is famous for the Shivapuri National Park, which lies very close to Kakani. Apart from these, the valley is also host for many adventure activities.

kakani-hiking

How to reach from Kathmandu?

Kakani is just 24 km away from Kathmandu, through the Trishuli Highway. You can find buses and cabs from Kathmandu to reach this valley. The cheapest way to reach Kakani is cab. It would take a little more than 30 minutes. If you could not find cabs, you can try buses, which run from Balaju to Kakani. These buses run four times a day.

Top winter activities to relish

  1. Hiking
  2. Trekking
  3. Mountain biking
  4. Camping
  5. Strawberry farm visiting
  6. Memorial park visit

7. Chitwan

Chitwan will remind everyone of Chitwan National Park. Fortunately, it is not the only tourist attraction of the region. The place is famous for palaces, lakes, shopping areas, adventure activities and much more. Chitwan is known for its deep forest wealth. Remember that the forest is rich with leopard population. Do not enter the forest without guidance. If you are up for shopping, buy mustard oil from here. Chitwan has a world recognition for mustard cultivation. While in Chitwan, try the unique cuisine of the land. The iconic dish of the land is spicy fried goat served with cheura. Other dishes are momos, balbhat, sukutikhaja set and others.

Chitwan National Park is not the only wildlife site of Nepal. To learn about the other sanctuaries to cover in Nepal, read our blog - Top 10 Wildlife Sanctuaries in Nepal

Chaitwan

How to reach from Kathmandu?

The best way to reach Chitwan is to take a tourist AC bus from Kathmandu. It would take seven hours to reach Chitwan from Kathmandu. You can easily find buses from Thamel side of Kantipath. Other options are local buses and cab.

Top winter activities to relish

  1. Wildlife spotting, jungle safari
  2. Birdwatching
  3. Boating
  4. Shopping
  5. City sightseeing
  6. Trekking
  7. Bungee jumping
  8. Camping
  9. Hiking

Also Read : 10 Best Places for Wildlife Photography

Suggested Tour :

8. Mustang

This is an isolated kingdom located in the Himalayan region of Nepal. This is a cultural spot to enjoy many traditional activities and unique lifestyle. You need special permit to visit Upper Mustang. However, it is totally worth it (not during winter). Lower Mustang is for winter visitors. Trekkers visit the region from August to early winter. If you stay back, you can enjoy many cultural festivals. The best of all is the Tiji Festival. Nepal in winter is not just about trekking. Read our exclusive blog about Best Things to Do in Nepal.

Mustang

How to reach from Kathmandu?

The best way is to reach Pokhara from Kathmandu and travel to Mustang from Pokhara. You can find flights, buses and cabs from Kathmandu to Pokhara. From Pokhara, you need to visit Jomsom by flight or jeep. It would not take more than 20 minutes airtime to reach Jomsom. Some avid trekkers trek to Jomsom from Pokhara.

Top winter activities to relish

  1. Trekking
  2. Hiking
  3. Camping
  4. Fossil hunting
  5. Jeep ride through mountains
  6. Visit to orchards
  7. Visit to religious sites

Kathmandu Travel Guide

9. Mardi Himal

Mardi Himal is an important trekking destination. Apart from this, the landscape is famous for other adventure activities. The best time to visit Mardi Himal (Nepal) is from March to November. Trekking is not just about snow and adventure time. You get to trek through many cultural villages, camping sites and other exciting sights.

Mardi-Himal

How to reach from Kathmandu?

From Kathmandu, take a flight or drive to Pokhara. From Pokhara, you can either drive or trek to Pothana. Some even trek to Pothana. Mostly, tourists start their trekking expenditure after entering Pothana. From Pothana, trek to the forest camp to reach the low camp region.

Top winter activities to relish

  1. Trekking
  2. Camping
  3. Sightseeing
  4. Teahouse visit
  5. Cultural performances at any top-notch restaurant

10. Ilam

Ilam is a rich destination of wildlife wealth, diversity, cultural elements and much more. Apart from the major element of natural beauty, Ilam is also famous for many hills in the region, which are famous tourist destinations. Top places to visit in Ilam are AntuDanda, Mai Pokhari, Sadakpur, Kanyam, Siddhi Thumka and others.

Ilam

How to reach from Kathmandu?

Ilam is around 524 km away from Kathmandu. You can travel via bus or cab to reach Ilam. It would take 17-22 hours via road. Cabs are much faster than buses, in this route.

Top winter activities to relish

  1. Sunset and sunrise view
  2. Tea garden visit
  3. Trekking
  4. Mountain route drive
  5. Forest trekking
  6. Winter annual fair
  7. Picnic in Fikkal
  8. Pilgrimage trip to GajurMukhi, Mai Beni, Pathibhara and others

Nepal is famous for pilgrimage trips too. If you are looking for winter pilgrimage trip, try our extended tour packages covering India and Nepal.

Are you planning a trip to Nepal, now? Read A Complete Guide to Nepal for Travelers to jump start your vacation.

Note : If you are an Indian, you are in for a treat. Nepal allows Indian tourists to visit its tourist destinations without requiring visa. Source

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is it good to visit Nepal in December?

A. It will be always a good time to visit Nepal in December. The surroundings of nature fully covered with mighty snow and historic panoramic views. For trekking lovers, December month will be the perfect time to visit with all its freaky snow.

Q. Is January a good time to visit Nepal?

A. Never miss the trip to Nepal in the month of January. It is wintertime in Nepal where the temperature falls up to 10 c. You have to pack your all needy clothes and medkit for pretending from the freaky cold climate.

Q. How cold does it get in Kathmandu?

A. In Kathmandu, the average temperature falls up to 10 c and maximum to 23 c. It gets so cold that you can’t survive without jerkins. But it will be an awesome experience visiting Kathmandu in a cool climate with snow breezes.

Q. Where we can find snow in Nepal?

A. There are so many places in Nepal where you can find so many beautiful places covered with snow. Places like Daman, Poon Hill, Shivpuri, Chandragiri Hill, Langtang, Gokyo, Palung, Tistung,and Kalinchowk are some unique places and having picturesque view covered with snow.

Q. How cold is Nepal in winter?

A. It is very cold in Nepal in the season of winter. The temperature falls up to 12 c and the maximum temperature is rises up to 22 c. It is all covered with white snow with cool breezes makes your temperature falls down.

Q. What are the best places to visit in Nepal?

Nepal has it's so many beautiful places to visit. Places like Phewa lake, Pashupatinath, Sagarmatha National Park, Langtang National park, Kathesimbu Stupa, Devi’s fall, Parsa Wildlife Reserve, Bindyabasini Temple are always great to visit.

Q. What are the top activities to do in Nepal?

A. You can do so many amazing things in Nepal for example Trekking at the Himalayan range, Mountain biking in Kathmandu valley, Trip to Mt. Everest in Helicopter River rafting, Visting temples, taking pictures of the beautiful scenic locations, Paragliding in Pokhara valley.

Q. What is the best time to visit Nepal?

A. Autumn season is the best time to visit in Nepal. In this time you will find out so many beautiful scenic views, with a clear sky and holy atmosphere. In the months of October and November, Nepal reveals it’s whole beauty to the world.

Q. Is Passport required for Nepal?

A. For Indians, there is no need for a passport to visit Nepal. But there might be some proofs you have to show at Nepalese Immigration like Ration card with photo, Election commission card, Driving license, Pan card.

Q. Can I use Indian rupees in Nepal?

A. Yes, Indian currency is acceptable in Nepal. But 500 and 1000 rupee notes are not acceptable in all regions due to there is high range of duplicate notes. 100 rupee notes are always much easier to pay without any hesitations.

Q. How many days Indian can stay in Nepal?

A. As per the rules, Indians can stay up to 150 days in a year without any restrictions. You can visit Nepal and stay in your reliable places for a long while up to 5 months by clearing visa at Nepalese Immigration.

Q. Do Nepalese Need Visa Enter India?

A. There is no need for any visa or passport to visit India for Nepal citizens but must have valid Voter’s Identification Card issued by the Election Commission of Nepal. And children below age 10, no need of any proofs at immigration session if accompanied by parents having valid travel documents. Children Age group of 10-18 will be need the photo id issued by the school.

Q. How many countries can Nepalese visit without a visa?

A. A Nepal Citizen can visit up to 37 counties without a visa. Nepal stands at 90th rank in passport rankings in the world.