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Last Updated on May 16, 2023 by motologs
Nepal is a country with diverse landscapes, rich culture, and stunning natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for road trips. From scenic mountain passes to lush green forests, Nepal has it all. In this article, we will explore the top 10 Best Road Trips in Nepal: Exploring the Scenic Beauty and Culture, that offer breathtaking views of the country’s natural beauty and diverse culture.
Nepal boasts unparalleled natural beauty, with some of the world’s highest mountains, rolling hills, lush green forests, and diverse wildlife. The country is also home to a rich cultural heritage, with ancient temples, palaces, and monasteries scattered throughout its towns and cities. The warmth and hospitality of the Nepalese people add to the charm of the country, making it an unforgettable experience for all visitors. Whether you’re trekking through the Himalayan mountains, exploring the historic city of Kathmandu, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the country, Nepal offers a unique and unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. If you are traveling to Nepal from India by road then you will need a Bhansar permit and you can find all the info related to Bhansar here.
Top 10 Roadtrips in Nepal for Every Traveller
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, a road trip in Nepal is a perfect way to explore the country’s hidden gems and experience its unique culture. These road trips will take you through some of the most scenic landscapes, including the Himalayan mountains, valleys, rivers, and traditional villages.
Each road trip in Nepal has its own charm, and whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, you’ll find something that suits your interests. So, buckle up, hit the road, and embark on a journey of a lifetime through Nepal’s most scenic routes.
Kathmandu to Pokhara
One of the most popular road trips in Nepal is from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The drive is around 200 km and takes around 6-7 hours. The road passes through beautiful landscapes, including hills, rivers, and valleys. The highlight of the trip is driving through the Trishuli River, which is known for its white water rafting.
Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park
Chitwan National Park is one of the most popular destinations in Nepal. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including tigers, rhinos, and elephants. The road trip from Kathmandu to Chitwan is around 175 km and takes around 5-6 hours. The road passes through beautiful landscapes, including hills, forests, and rivers.
Kathmandu to Lumbini
Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Buddha and is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the world. The road trip from Kathmandu to Lumbini is around 300 km and takes around 8-9 hours. The road passes through beautiful landscapes, including hills, forests, and rivers. The highlight of the trip is visiting the Maya Devi Temple, which is the birthplace of Lord Buddha.
Kathmandu to Namche Bazaar
Namche Bazaar is a popular destination for trekkers who want to explore the Khumbu region and the base of Mount Everest. The road trip from Kathmandu to Namche Bazaar is around 345 km and takes around 2 days. The road passes through beautiful landscapes, including hills, rivers, and forests. The highlight of the trip is driving through the beautiful valleys of the Khumbu region.
Pokhara to Jomsom
Jomsom is a beautiful town located in the Mustang district of Nepal. The town is famous for its apple orchards and the view of the Annapurna range. The road trip from Pokhara to Jomsom is around 160 km and takes around 9-10 hours. The road passes through beautiful landscapes, including hills, rivers, and valleys. The highlight of the trip is driving through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, which is the deepest gorge in the world. Further 20km up from Jomson is the famous Muktinath Temple.
Kathmandu to Rara Lake
Rara Lake is a beautiful lake located in the remote region of western Nepal. The lake is surrounded by beautiful forests and mountains. The road trip from Kathmandu to Rara Lake is around 880 km and takes around 3-4 days. The road passes through beautiful landscapes, including hills, forests, and rivers. The highlight of the trip is visiting Rara Lake and exploring the beautiful surroundings.
Kathmandu to Mustang via Pokhara
Mustang is a beautiful district located in the northern part of Nepal. The district is famous for its unique culture and beautiful landscapes. The road trip from Kathmandu to Mustang is around 360 km and takes around 2-3 days. The road passes through beautiful landscapes, including hills, rivers, and valleys. The highlight of the trip is visiting the ancient town of Lo Manthang and exploring the unique culture of Mustang.
Kathmandu to Bandipur
Bandipur is a beautiful hilltop town located in the Tanahu district of Nepal. The town is famous for its traditional Newari architecture and stunning views of the Himalayas. The road trip from Kathmandu to Bandipur is around 143 km and takes around 4-5 hours. The road passes through beautiful landscapes, including hills, valleys, and forests. The highlight of the trip is visiting the picturesque town of Bandipur and exploring the beautiful surroundings.
Pokhara to Sarangkot
The road trip from Pokhara to Sarangkot is around 13 km and takes around 30-40 minutes. The road is mostly narrow and winding, but the scenery along the way is absolutely breathtaking. You will pass through lush green forests, traditional Nepalese villages, and terraced farmlands before arriving at the top of Sarangkot Hill. Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with some of the most stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range, including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Manaslu. Sarangkot is considered one of the best places in Nepal to view the sunrise and sunset, and you can enjoy these spectacular views from there.
Far West Nepal (Sudurpaschim) from Kathmandu
Far West Nepal is a relatively unexplored region of the country that is home to diverse cultures and stunning natural beauty. A road trip through this region is an adventure of a lifetime that will take you through beautiful landscapes, remote villages, and cultural treasures.
The Far West Nepal road trip starts from the city of Kathmandu and takes you through the towns of Dhangadi, Dadeldhura, and Mahendranagar. The trip covers a distance of approximately 800 km and takes around 3-4 days, depending on your pace, and stops along the way. The road trip offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountains, rolling hills, and lush green forests. You will also have the opportunity to explore the cultural heritage of the region by visiting ancient temples, palaces, and traditional villages.
One of the highlights of the Far West Nepal road trip is visiting the Khaptad National Park, which is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the endangered musk deer and red panda. The park is also a great place for hiking and nature walks. Another must-visit destination during the road trip is the Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, which is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and rhinoceroses. The reserve is also home to a large number of migratory birds, making it a popular destination for bird watchers.
Anyone seeking to explore the lesser-known treasures of Nepal should not miss a road trip through Far West Nepal. It is an adventure that offers unforgettable experiences. With its stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and rich history, the region offers an unforgettable experience for all travelers.
Tips for a successful road trip in Nepal
- Plan your route: Before embarking on your road trip, make sure you have a clear plan of your route. This will help you avoid getting lost and wasting time.
- Choose the right vehicle: The roads in Nepal can be challenging, so it’s important to choose the right vehicle. A 4-wheel drive vehicle is recommended for most of the road trips in Nepal.
- Carry essentials: It’s important to carry essential items, including a first aid kit, food, and water. You should also carry warm clothing as the weather can be unpredictable in Nepal.
- Be prepared for the unexpected: The roads in Nepal can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for the unexpected. This includes carrying extra food, fuel, spares, and tools.
- Check the weather: The weather in Nepal can be unpredictable, so it’s important to check the weather forecast before embarking on your road trip.
- Respect local culture: Nepal is a country with diverse cultures and traditions, so it’s important to respect the local culture and traditions.
- Be prepared for the altitude: Some of the road trips in Nepal involve driving at high altitudes. It’s important to be prepared for the altitude, especially if you have any health issues. Keep emergency medicine like Diamox ready for altitude sickness.
- Carry cash: Cash is king, especially in remote areas of Nepal. Some of the remote areas in Nepal may not have ATMs or credit card facilities, so it’s important to carry cash with you. More importantly, carry Nepali currency.
A road trip in Nepal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s an opportunity to explore the beautiful landscapes, experience the rich culture, and connect with nature. With careful planning and preparation, you can ensure a successful road trip in Nepal. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and experience the beauty of Nepal.
