Top 10 Places to Visit in Kathmandu and Pokhara for First-Time Travelers
Get in touch with our Staff members and get discounted offers for your trip.
If you are planning your first trip to Nepal, chances are that Kathmandu and Pokhara are at the top of your itinerary. Both cities are cultural and natural gems that showcase the best of what Nepal has to offer. Whether it’s the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu or the tranquil lakes and mountain views in Pokhara, these destinations will leave you spellbound. With Nagarjuna Travels as your trusted guide, exploring Nepal becomes even more memorable and hassle-free. In this guide, we’ll explore the Top 10 places to visit in Kathmandu and Pokhara that first-time travelers should not miss.
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is famous for its rich cultural heritage, temples, and bustling streets. On the other hand, Pokhara is Nepal’s adventure capital, surrounded by the Annapurna mountain range, serene lakes, and caves. Together, these cities provide a perfect balance of history, spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kathmandu Durbar Square is a living museum of palaces, courtyards, and temples that showcase the history of the Malla kings. First-time travelers will love exploring the intricate wooden carvings and traditional Newari architecture. For more details and visitor guidelines, you can check the official Nepal Tourism Board site.
Perched on a hilltop, Swayambhunath Stupa offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. Known as the “Monkey Temple” because of the playful monkeys that roam around, this site is both spiritual and scenic.
One of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world, Pashupatinath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, this temple is an important religious site and a window into Nepali spirituality.
The Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest stupas in the world and a hub for Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Circumambulating the stupa while spinning prayer wheels is a deeply calming experience.
If you’re a first-time traveler, you can’t miss Thamel, Kathmandu’s most vibrant neighborhood. It’s filled with shops, restaurants, trekking gear stores, and nightlife spots. Perfect for both leisure and shopping.
The heart of Pokhara, Phewa Lake is a tranquil spot where travelers can enjoy boating, watch reflections of the Annapurna mountains, and visit the Tal Barahi Temple on an island in the lake.
Locally known as “Patale Chhango,” Davis Falls is a mesmerizing waterfall that disappears into an underground tunnel. It’s a must-visit attraction for first-time visitors to Pokhara.
Situated on a hilltop overlooking Phewa Lake, the World Peace Pagoda offers panoramic views of Pokhara and the snow-capped Himalayas. It’s not only a spiritual site but also a perfect hiking destination.
For the best sunrise view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, head to Sarangkot. It’s a popular spot for paragliding as well, making it perfect for adventure lovers.
The International Mountain Museum in Pokhara is a treasure trove for anyone interested in mountaineering, the history of the Himalayas, and the culture of mountain people.
Best Time to Visit: Autumn (September–November) and Spring (March–May).
Transport: Local taxis, rickshaws, and tourist buses.
Food: Don’t miss traditional Nepali meals like dal bhat and momos.
Cultural Etiquette: Dress modestly when visiting temples and stupas.