With its huge Himalayan region, immense natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage, Nepal has long been a popular travel destination for visitors from all over the world. The country’s large and open plains in the south are fantastic, while the north boasts beautiful scenery and there are some great offbeat places in Nepal. The breathtaking splendour of Mount Everest will enthral you once you arrive in this nation, blessed by Lord Buddha.
8 Wonderful Offbeat Places In Nepal
With all these splendours, Nepal’s tourist destinations will wow you. This nation has several well-known tourist destinations, but it also has some undiscovered treasures. These offbeat places in Nepal are tranquil and renowned for their unspoiled beauty, while the popular spots are constantly bustling with people.
1. Shey Phoksundho Lake
Among one of the best offbeat places in Nepal, 145 meters deep, Shey Phoksundo Lake is the deepest freshwater lake in the country. It is located at a high height. Situated deep within Nepal’s Dolpo area, it’s a hidden gem. Why is the Lake so special? The lake is a well-liked location for hikers and environment enthusiasts because of its pristine blue water and breathtaking views of the mountains. For everyone interested in discovering Nepal’s undiscovered treasures, this place is a must-visit because of its tranquil ambience, breathtaking mountain vistas, and diverse cultural offerings.
How to reach: Dolpa Airport, also called Juphal Airport, is the closest airport to Shey Phoksundo Lake.
Popular tourist attractions: Phoksundo Waterfall, Ringmo Village, Shey Gompa
Best time to visit: September to November
Must Read: Trekking Near Pokhara
2. The Rupa Tal
The third-largest freshwater lake in Nepal is called Rupa Tal, or Rupa Lake, and it is situated in the southeast Pokhara Valley. This is the perfect spot if you’re looking for offbeat places in East Nepal. Encircled by verdant hills and woodlands, this lake appears exquisite and tranquil. If you’re travelling on your honeymoon, taking a boat ride on this lake and witnessing the sunset will make memories that last a lifetime. The Rupa Tal and the Begnas Lake are separated by a mountain crest. You will be astounded to observe 36 different species of waterbirds if you enjoy watching birds.
How to reach: Pokhara, a well-known tourist destination in Nepal, is a short drive from Rupa Tal via road.
Popular tourist attractions: Rupa Lake, Tal Barahi Temple, Pumdi Bhumdi
Best time to visit: September to November
3. Khumjung
Consider travelling to offbeat locations in Nepal to follow the tale of the Yeti. You should go to Khumjung when you’re in Nepal if you want to experience the mystic life. The locals told Edmund Hillary and Desmond Doig that the unusual scalp they discovered in 1960 at the house of an elderly woman in the area was the yeti-scalp. Even after it was established that the scalp, which is kept in a nearby monastery, belongs to an antelope resembling a goat in the Himalayas, people still travel all over the nation to see it.
How to reach: Trekking is the most popular route to Khumjung from Lukla or other adjacent communities, such as Namche Bazaar.
Popular tourist attractions: Khunde Hospital, Khumjung Village, Yeti Skull
Best time to visit: March to May
Suggested Read: Paragliding In Nepal
4. Janakpur Dham
The memories of ancient tales are preserved at Mithila’s Janakpur Dham. It is the residence of Sita, the courageous daughter of Nepal and consort of Lord Ram. Since the goddess Sita was born in Janakpur Dham, Hindus consider it to be a sacred site. The location is a stunning travel destination in and of itself, regardless of its religious significance. Viewers are treated to a feast of vibrant, one-of-a-kind artwork adoring every area of the magnificent palace.
How to reach: Domestic flights are operating between Janakpur and Kathmandu from the city’s own airport, Janakpur Airport (also called Janakpur Dham Airport).
Popular tourist attractions: Dhanushadham, Janaki Mandir, Ram Sita Vivah Mandap
Best time to visit: October to February
5. Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve
Every visitor to the Dhorpatan hunting reserve is assured of high hills, terraced fields, and lonely trails. However, not many people are aware of this beauty. Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is the only hunting reserve in Nepal that provides a space for those who enjoy hunting sports. The reserve is among some of the best offbeat places in Nepal. Aside from the thrilling hunting experience, Dhorpatan is a stunning location with a varied topography, including lush forests, deep marshes, and level meadows. It promises to be a rewarding adventure and a great spot to reconnect with Mother Nature.
How to reach: Take a domestic flight to Pokhara Airport from Kathmandu.
Popular tourist attractions: Wildlife Viewing, Bird watching, Cultural Exploration
Best time to visit: March to May
Suggested Read: Bardia National Park
6. Maya Devi Temple
You will be mesmerised by the scenery at each temple, as Nepal is a country full of monasteries and temples. One of the principal temples in Lumbini, the site of Lord Buddha’s birth, is the Maya Devi Temple. Despite being recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, this location is frequently missed by tourists visiting Nepal. This temple, one of the most remarkable destinations for Buddhist enthusiasts, will enthral you with its elaborate architectural elements.
How to reach: Gautam Buddha Airport in Bhairahawa is the closest airport to Lumbini.
Popular tourist attractions: Ashoka Pillar, Lumbini Museum, Monastic Zone
Best time to visit: March to May
7. Ranighat Palace
Ranighat Palace, a secret palace in Palpa’s remote area, is a popular tourist destination in Nepal with distinctive architecture, historical value, a picturesque setting, a rich cultural legacy, and tourism potential. It is beautiful, historically significant, and a monument to Nepal’s rich culture and architectural prowess. It is well worth a visit. Ranighat Palace is situated on one of Nepal’s principal rivers, the Kaligandaki. The lovely green hills that encircle the palace make for a stunning background. Because of its serene surroundings, the palace is a pleasant and serene place for guests. It is one of the offbeat places to stay in Nepal.
How to reach: Ranighat Palace is around 100 kilometres from Pokhara, in Nepal’s Myagdi district.
Popular tourist attractions: Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Baglung Kalika Temple, Gurung Museum
Best time to visit: September to November
Suggested Read: Summer In Nepal
8. Tansen
Tansen, sometimes referred to as Palpa Tansen, is a historic town in Nepal’s Palpa district. It is renowned for its vibrant cultural history. The town is home to many temples, palaces, and old structures that showcase Nepal’s superior artistic and architectural talent. It is known for being an offbeat destination and one of the best offbeat places to stay in Nepal.
The secret location is well known for its exquisite examples of Newari architecture. Traditional Newari-style buildings dot the village with elaborately carved windows, doors, and struts.
How to reach: It is about a two to three-hour trip from Bhairahawa to Tansen, where you can rent a taxi or catch a bus.
Popular tourist attractions: Tansen Durbar, Shreenagar Hills, Sitalpati, Rani Mahal
Best time to visit: September to November
Further Read: Picnic Spots In Nepal
Offbeat locations in Nepal and unusual travel spots are guaranteed to astound you. Dolpo is where nature meets your spirit, Bandipur is like a time-travelling fairytale, Ilam is nature’s hug in a tea garden, Rara Lake possesses Himalayan magic, and Gosaikunda? It is the greatest combination of spiritual nature. From the summits of the mountains to the depths of your mind, these locations will always be a part of you. So book a trip to Nepal and explore its lesser-known locations to create lifelong memories.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Offbeat Places In Nepal
Is English spoken by Nepalese?
English is a second language among Nepalese, particularly among those employed in the travel and hospitality industries. Despite being the native tongue, English is the main language spoken in most Nepali enterprises. But not everyone in Nepal speaks English, especially those who live in rural areas.
Is a visa needed to enter and explore the offbeat destinations in Nepal?
Naturally, everyone—aside from Indian nationals—needs a visa to enter Nepal. Fortunately, obtaining a visa is a simple procedure. When you arrive at Kathmandu, Nepal's only international airport, you can process your visa using electronic kiosks. Once the paperwork is completed and the visa cost is paid, you will be added to the immigration waiting list for your visa upon arrival.
For what is Nepal most well-known?
The two most famous things about Nepal are that it is home to Mt. Everest, the tallest mountain in the world, and the birthplace of Lord Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. Among the fourteen highest mountain peaks in the world, eight are found in this stunning country.
How far will we travel on a typical trekking day while exploring offbeat destinations in Nepal?
You should plan on walking for five to seven hours a day, or 10 to 14 kilometres, each day. The times won't change above 3500 meters, but you'll only travel 8 to 9 kilometers.
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With a passion for exploring and travelling to the roads long forgotten, experience the world through enthralling stories and adventures. Join me as I share my experiences at some of the world’s most popular tourist destinations and quench that pestering curiosity with something exciting!
