Top 5 Unique Things to do in Nepal? Your Ultimate Nepal Guide
Nepal is a country of diverse geographical features and cultures, offering unique experiences that go far beyond the Himalayas. While high-altitude treks are a major attraction, a plethora of adventures await those willing to delve deeper into Nepal's vibrant culture, incredible landscapes, and ancient traditions. In this guide, we will uncover the top 5 unique things to do in Nepal.
Our guide offers daredevil activities in Pokhara, fiery culinary experiences in Kathmandu, and ancient cultural practices across several destinations. Prepare to be captivated by the soul of the Himalayan nation:
Daredevil Activities in Pokhara
The serene lake city of Pokhara is also known as the adventure capital of Nepal, as it offers an array of thrilling activities against the stunning backdrop of the majestic Annapurna mountain range. For instance, adventurers looking for an adrenaline rush can head to Kusma to take a leap of faith with a bungee jump. The jump, which plummets 228 meters (748 feet) over the Seti River gorge, is the second-highest in the world and delivers a truly heart-stopping free-fall experience.
You can also take an ultralight flight to get a different perspective of the Himalayas. These small, two-seater aircraft provide an open-air experience, offering clear views of the snow-capped peaks and the serene Phewa Lake landscapes. You can continue your aerial adventure with a paragliding adventure from Sarangkot as well. On this 15 to 20-minute aerial adventure, a licensed pilot will navigate you through the clouds toward Phewa Lake.
From the high skies, you can go deep underground and explore some of the fascinating limestone caves. Explore the mysterious Gupteswor Mahadev Cave, adjacent to Davi’s Falls, or seek more thrills in the Bat Cave and Mahendra Cave.
A Fiery Feast in Kathmandu
Apart from the architectural marvels, Kathmandu is also known for its vibrant culinary scene and a tapestry of unique flavors. For an adventure foodie, the native Newari food of Kathmandu, known for its elaborate and flavorful dishes, is a must-try.
Exploring the narrow alleys looking for traditional eateries will introduce you to the spicy delicacies of the capital’s indigenous community. A must-try is the haku chhoila, a grilled buffalo meat marinated in a blend of fiery herbs and spices. You can explore several other foods as well. Wash away the hard-hitting flavors with a local brew like chhyang or the potent aila.
You can also try other Newari specialities such as chhata mari, often referred to as Newari Pizza. This is a thin rice crepe topped with minced meat, egg, onion, and other vegetables. To end your culinary adventure on a sweet note, try the sweet steamed yamari, a dumpling made of rice flour with fillings of molasses and sesame seeds. Exploring these bold flavors offers a delicious insight into the rich cultural heritage of the Kathmandu Valley.
A Cultural Journey into Ancient Traditions
Nepal's diverse geography showcases its unique culture and traditions. This cultural richness is among the primary attractions of the country. You can gain a deeper understanding of the ancient traditions, rituals, and values of the land as you gather profound experiences that vary from one region to another.
For instance, in Kathmandu, the tradition of the living goddess, Kumari, is a sacred religious tradition. Highly revered by the Hindu and Buddhist communities, a young girl from the Newari is worshipped as the incarnation of the Hindu goddess Taleju; just a glimpse of the Kumari at her Basantapur residence is considered a divine experience.
For a deeper cultural experience, travel to the remote and mystical region of Upper Mustang. Amid the desert-like landscape with its original Tibetan-Buddhism roots and traditions still preserved to this day, you may have the rare opportunity to observe a sky burial. This unique funeral practice, known as a 'sky burial,' involves offering the deceased to vultures and is an ancient tradition rooted in Vajrayana Buddhist beliefs. Sky burial is considered a compassionate offering and a practical necessity in a region where the ground is often too frozen to dig.
This ancient ritual, though confronting, offers a unique perspective on life and death in this Himalayan region. These experiences provide a powerful connection to Nepal's living history and spiritual depth.
Wild Honey Hunting in the Himalayas
Honey hunting expeditions are rare and a truly off-the-beaten-path experience. This ancient tradition is practiced in the foothills of the Himalayas by the Gurung and Magar communities. This process involves climbing cliffs, with the help of homemade ladders, to harvest the honey of the giant Himalayan honeybee (Apis laboriosa).
This 'mad honey,' as it's often called, gets its unique properties from grayanotoxins found in the nectar of specific rhododendron flowers. It is used in traditional medicine and is known for its psychoactive effects. You can witness the expert honey gatherers practice ancient techniques, using traditional tools passed down from generations. You can also experience firsthand the courage and skill of the honey hunters, who hang from cliffs while swarmed by bees, offering a rare glimpse into this adventurous way of life.
A Gentler Adventure: Family Hikes and Himalayan Views
There are several family-friendly destinations and activities in Nepal. As surprising as it may sound, despite the challenging geography of the Himalayas, there are enthralling adventure activities for kids in Nepal.
For example, by avoiding the strenuous and risky trails, families can go on an Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour. This is a safe way for the whole family to witness the magnificence of the Himalayas and stand close to the world's tallest peak, Mount Everest. The EBC Helicopter tour often includes a stop at a viewpoint near Everest, allowing travelers to have incredible photo opportunities and taste the high-altitude environment.
In the periphery of the country's capital, there are numerous short and easy hiking trails. The trails around Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, and Shivapuri National Park provide stunning Himalayan views, fresh mountain air, and opportunities to experience rural Nepali life. These hikes are gentle enough for children and offer a wonderful introduction to the beauty of the Nepalese countryside.