Nepal is renowned for its breathtaking natural and cultural beauty, peacefulness, and calmness. Moreover, it is home to the snowcapped Himalayas, serene landscapes, dense forests, and mesmerizing rivers, lakes, and waterfalls.
Nepal is renowned for its breathtaking natural and cultural beauty, peacefulness, and calmness. Moreover, it is home to the snowcapped Himalayas, serene landscapes, dense forests, and mesmerizing rivers, lakes, and waterfalls. There are diverse mesmerizing destinations such as; Kathmandu Valley (City of temples), Pokhara (Paradise for Nature Lovers and city of lakes), Lumbini, Himalayas, and many more and so much to do like adventure, trekking, and more.
However, more than that, the natural calmness and cultural beauty lie between Nepal's traditional villages. These Villages with rich cultural tapestry, ancient temples, monasteries, and many more, are the underrated beauties of Nepal. These Villages are often surrounded by serene views of terraced fields, dense forests, and mountains, making them ideal destinations for trek lovers and nature and cultural enthusiasts.
Why Visit Nepali Village?
Have you ever noticed that as our world is rapidly modernizing, the sense of disconnection from real-life experiences is also increasing? causing chronic stress, anxiety, loss of traditional values, cultural erosion, and even physical and mental health issues due to lack of physical activity and engagement with nature.
The serene environment of Nepali villages allows you to regain calmness and lose all your exhaustion. You can unplug yourself from the digital overload and explore simplicity and peace. Nepali villages give you the opportunity to regain healthy, organic living with social bonding and an enjoyable vacation with Nepali culture. Most importantly, you can reconnect with what truly matters in life.
You don’t have to worry much about traveling here because most villages are near tourist places and trekking destinations. A tour of Nepali village will be ideal in your leisure time before or after the trek or you can also especially plan your vacation only to Nepali village and blend with the real way of living. Some beautiful villages with mesmerizing natural and cultural beauty that you can visit are;
Ghandruk Village (Heritage Village)
Ghandruk can be described as a traditional Gurung village or trekking village in the Annapurna region of Nepal, with picturesque mountain views.
Making best for your extra exploration, you can also start your Annapurna Base Camp trek from Ghandruk. You can quickly drive for 2-4 hours leaving the city of Lakes Pokhara or trek, which will be a short 1-day trek. Visiting Ghandruk in Autumn and Spring is suggested for optimal weather and for exploring more natural beauties and festivals. Ghandruk village also fall in the Ghorepani Poonhill trek.
The village is famous for its cultural heritage, history, and scenic views. As it is a heritage village, you can explore traditional stone houses and stunning architecture and spend time in the local Gurung culture and authentic Gurung cuisines. At Ghandruk, you can also explore short hikes, such as the Ghandruk to Jhinu Danda trail, where you can experience natural hot springs.
You can relax and enjoy the peace with panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks of Annapurna, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare. Furthermore, if you visit Ghandruk during festivals like Dashain, Tamu Lhosar, or Tihar, you’ll also participate in their culture and experience traditional dance performances.
For those seeking to experience authentic Nepalese hospitality by staying in a homestay run by locals, you can participate in daily activities such as cooking or farming.
Ghandruk is a worthwhile traveling destination where you will feel relaxed like never before and be close to people, animals, nature, and almost everything all the time. Moreover, you will actually live in reality and almost everything all the time. While leaving, you can take unique handicrafts, such as homemade textiles and pottery, as a memory.
Marpha Village
Apple Capital of Nepal, Marpha Village, is at an altitude of 2670 meters, located in the heart of the Annapurna region of Nepal. Marpha village is a hidden gem in the Mustang District with traditional Thakali culture in every corner of Marpha.
Locals say this village has cobblestone streets and houses with more than 300-year-old wood. For those seeking to experience the beauty of the Annapurna region, Marpha provides a blend of Himalayan peaks, terraced fields, lush apple orchards, authentic Thakali dishes, and the influence of Tibetan Buddhism culture.
If you are a trekker, Marpha can be a great experience as it is a gateway to popular treks such as Annapurna Circuit and Dhaulagiri Icefall Trek. You can also hike to Dhumba Lake for panoramic views of the Nilgiri mountains. Moreover, if you like to experience local tradition you can participate in the local apple-picking season or Tiji Festival. Along with the rich culture and stunning scenery, you can visit the Marpha monastery and get insights into the daily rituals of the monks.
Whether you want a cozy homestay or traditional lodge experience, you can get both at Marpha. Here you can try authentic Thakali meals, find comfortable rooms, and explore local life, getting away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. As Marpha is famous for apples, you can try delicious dishes such as; apple pie, apple cider, and especially brandy. All of these are at Niligiri Thakali Kitchen, Neeru Homestay, and Marpha Guest House, where you will be treated as your family.
If you want to get the most out of your golden hours, the best time to visit Marpha is during the spring and autumn seasons. During these periods, you can enjoy clear weather and mesmerizing landscapes, making an unforgettable experience.
Bandipur Village
For anyone seeking a blend of culture, views, and history, Bandipur is a village at an altitude of 1,030 meters located between Kathmandu (a 4-hour drive) and Pokhara (a 2-hour drive). It can be an ideal destination for ending the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The Picturesque village of Bandipur has preserved its traditional architecture and cobblestone streets.
Full of Newari craftsmanship and well-known for heritage buildings, temples, and shrines, this place is full of Newari culture. This place is best if you are a nature lover; you will get to appreciate the stunning view of the Himalayan range, which includes Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Langtang.
Moreover, Bindhyabasini Temple, Ganesha Temple, Khadga Devi Temple, Boudha Sadam Shakyamuni Gompa, Tin Dhara, Shiva Temple, and Siddha Cave (one of Nepal's large caves) are must-visits; here, you can experience the blend of spiritual and natural beauty.
Heavenly for trekkers and adventurers, this village is a starting point for several hikes, such as Ramkot Village and treks to Thani Mai Temple, where you can get a breathtaking sunrise view over the Himalayas.
Bandipur offers a variety of accommodation options, including cozy homestays that provide an authentic Newari hospitality experience and boutique lodges with stunning views. Staying at a homestay is like immersing in tradition as they are converted from traditional Newari townhouses and are like Gaun Ghar or The Old Inn.
Here, you can experience different cuisines that are as rich as its culture, such as dishes like Yomari, Chatamari, and Newari platter, which includes rice, fermented mustard greens, and spiced meat, and Bandipur thali, a filling meal of rice, lentils, vegetable curries, and pickles. Bandipur Mountain Resort and Samay Baji are popular choices.
Overall Bandipur is a destination where culture, history, and nature blend together to offer a quality time for visitors, especially for trekkers. You can visit Bandipur during the spring or autumn to capture clear skies and incredible landscapes. Autumn is best if you love culture, as Dashain and Tihar add up another layer of cultural richness. Whether you want Himalayan views, ancient caves, or a variety of local cuisine, Bandipur has it all to turn your hours into golden hours.
Barpak Village
Barpak Village is in the Gorkha District of Nepal. It offers a panoramic view of Ganesh Himal and Himalchuli peaks. The village is easily accessed by a scenic drive from Kathmandu or Pokhara. In this village, you can experience the vibrant culture of the Gurung community and see traditional dances like Ghatu and Sorathi.
Moreover, you will spend quality time during festivals such as Lhosar (Tibetan New Year). Enough cultural beauty here will stun you with natural beauty, which includes dense forests, terraced fields, and towering mountains.
As a trekker, you can start with the Manaslu Circuit Trek or hike to Dharapani viewpoint, where you can get a breathtaking view of Manaslu and Mulasthan Hill (known for sunrise). Instead of keeping your eyes on the screen, you can also participate in traditional weaving activities, learn about Gurung attire, and get insights into the history at the Barpak Cultural Museum.
Barpak allows you to spot Birds like the Danphe (Nepal's national bird). Moreover, if you are a history enthusiast, Barpak Memorial is a must-visit place, as it was built to honor those who lost their lives in the 2015 earthquake.
At Barpak Village, you can stay in cozy homestays or modest guesthouses. The spring season and staying homestays are highly recommended as you can immerse yourself in true culture, get a scenic view of rhododendron forests, learn about the great Gurkha story from the locals, and try delicious Gurung cuisines such as Gundruk, Sel Roti, and Chhyang. It is said that some popular homestays are Barpak Gurung Homestay and Everest Guesthouse.
Finally, at Barpak, you can escape the hustle, reconnect with nature, and enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas. This can be the best way to escape from the rush of modern life and relax while enjoying the Gurung community's rich culture and experiencing real peace and authentic life with a simpler way of living.
Rubi Valley
Rubi Valley is a hidden gem located in the lap of the Ganesh Himal region at an altitude of (2,000 – 4,500 meters). Saturated with both Natural and Cultural beauty, this place is best for retreating from the hustle and bustle of modernity to a real way of living. At Rubi Valley, you can encounter breathtaking landscapes, green forests, and traditional Tamang and Gurung cultures. The Rubi Valley is a heaven that includes forests, rivers, and stunning mountain views, blending Tamang and Gurung communities. The local culture is nicely preserved, where you can explore the inner beauty of age-old customs.
Located in the north of Dhading, This Valley is best for trekkers as you need to take a drive from Kathmandu followed by a trek that takes you to this mesmerizing valley with a picturesque view of the Ganesh Himal range. In the Rubi Valley, you can explore ancient monasteries and trek through less-visited landscapes. You can further enjoy Rubi Valley by experiencing local homestays that provide authentic Nepali hospitality with a deeper connection to the local culture and traditional dishes like Dal Bhat, Gundruk, and Thukpa.
In the spring and autumn seasons, you can experience the real tranquility of rural Nepal and enjoy it the most. A trip to Rubi Valley will be the perfect destination for escaping the pressures of modern life and enjoying a simpler way of life.
Namche Bazaar
In the Khumbu region, Namche Bazaar is more than just a stopover for trekkers; it is 3,440 meters above sea level and is the gateway to the Everest region. The town itself, being a tourist destination, offers a blend of cultural, natural, and adventurous beauty and comfort.
To reach Namche, you have to fly from Kathmandu to Lukla, experiencing one of the world’s most challenging airports, and trek for two days through a picturesque trail that passes through Phakding and Monjo with Dudh Kosi River, dense rhododendron forests, and suspension bridges.
If you are a cultural enthusiast, Namche offers rich Sherpa culture, with monasteries, museums, local markets, and a traditional Himalayan way of life so that you can immerse in the cultural beauty of Nepal. Including the Sherpa Museum and Namche Monastery, this place has stunning natural views of the world’s highest peaks. Some of the peaks include Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse.
At Namche Bazaar, you should visit the Saturday market, where locals trade goods and share stories making it a must-visit destination that offers handicrafts, Tibetan artifacts, and trekking gear, which can be a memorial of the trip. In addition, you can enjoy it further by celebrating sherpa festivals, such as Dumji, where you can enjoy dancing, listening to music, and feasting.
Moreover, you can find accommodations such as lodges, guesthouses, and teahouses with stunning views of the surroundings. Namche Bazaar offers a unique way to retreat from the chaos of modern life, reconnect with nature, and know yourself more straightforwardly by staying in a Sherpa-run homestay.
Here, you can find authentic experiences of the Sherpa people's daily life, allowing you to enjoy genuine and local cuisines such as Yak cheese and butter, Tibetan bread, Tsampa, and Sherpa stew (shyakpa) with warm hospitality.
During autumn and spring, with clear skies and better views of vibrant flora and fauna, whether for immersing yourself in cultural and natural beauty, acclimatization, unforgettable moments, or escaping from the daily hustle and bustle, you must choose Namche Bazaar for your wonderful vacation with yourself and your loved ones.
Ilam: Tea Paradise
Are you a Tea lover?
If yes, Ilam is meant for you, known as “The Tea Capital of Nepal.” Ilam is a gem located in the hills of eastern Nepal. However, Ilam offers much more than just beautiful tea gardens to make your vacation an unforgettable experience. By driving from Kathmandu for 12- 14 hours or taking a flight to Bhadrapur with the 3-hour drive, you can easily access Ilam and capture the mesmerizing beauty of Ilam.
Imagine standing on a hill covered by mesmerizing green tea bushes as far as your eye can see, feeling the cold breeze in your face, and enjoying a breathtaking, serene landscape.
This is what Ilam is about no wonder why it is called “Queen of Hills”, More than that, Ilam is famous for its cultural richness and natural beauty. Here, you can find diverse cultures of ethnic groups, including Lepchas, Rais, Limbus, and Gurung, each with different traditions and festivals. If you wonder what to do in Ilam, you must start your day catching the sunrise from Antu Danda (a popular viewpoint) and head toward the tea garden, where you can learn about the tea-making process, from plucking the leaves to processing and packaging.
Tasting tea is a must, and you can visit Mai Pokhari Sacred Lake and Pathibhara Devi Temple, which are spiritual places and pilgrimage sites for both Hindus and Buddhists. These places let you immerse yourself in the culture, and their surroundings mesmerize you with their breathtaking views.
Moreover, at Ilam, you must explore local markets where you can find traditional handicrafts, a variety of teas, and very tasty local chocolates. It won’t matter if you are a foodie or not; you will love local dishes and enjoy local cuisines like Dhido, Sukuti, and Gundruk. In addition to that, you can stay at Ilam, which is a great experience in cozy homestays that will let you explore local life with comfortable hotels.
Even life has no guarantee, but it’s guaranteed that you will like Ilam's tea.
Madi Village
In the southern part of Nepal, Madi Village is located within the Chitwan National Park, with the true essence of rural Nepal. If you are looking forward to escaping the hustle and bustle of modern life and experiencing authentic Nepali culture, you should take Madi Village at the top of your travel list. This village can allow you to explore the lifestyle of the Tharu people (Nepal’s indigenous community) as Tharu culture has a unique way of living deeply connected to the land.
At Madi, as a visitor, you can witness traditional farming practices, folk dances, unique customs, and traditions preserved for generations. You can also participate in Tharu dance performed during festivals and special occasions. Moreover, by joining a local family, you’ll taste delicious dishes made from local ingredients such as dhikri and Ghonghi and try traditional tharu meals. Other activities you can perform here are a nature walk through the forest with a guide, bird watching along the river banks, fishing, or boating at Rapti River with a scenic view of the surrounding landscapes.
There is plenty to explore in Madi as it is surrounded by the Chitwan National Park ( UNESCO World Heritage site); you can encounter the Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, and other various species with a guided jungle safari, which is a must-do activity. Enough with activities you get a wide range of options to stay at basic guesthouses or to more comfortable homestays. However, the best experience will be staying at Tharu homestay as you learn about culture more and enjoy the most. Whether you are a nature lover, a cultural enthusiast, or someone seeking an escape from modernity, Madi has enough to offer you a quality time.
Lomanthang (Kingdom of Lo)
If you love immersing in natural and cultural beauty, Lomanthang is more than just a destination for you, it becomes an unforgettable one-time experience. Located in the remote region of Upper Mustang and is known as the last forbidden kingdom of Nepal. This place has a fine blend of adventure, culture, history, and natural beauty.
You can find a rare glimpse of Tibetan culture which is untouched by modernity. This hidden kingdom is surrounded by stunning Himalayas, towering cliffs, and arid valleys.
As soon as you enter Lomanthang, you will encounter the beauty of whitewashed mud-brick houses, narrow alleys, and the imposing walls around them. Lomanthang is also filled with a rich cultural heritage, which includes; ancient monasteries, chortens, and palaces. The Thubchen and Jampa monasteries have a great history dating back to the 15th century, which reflects Tibetan Buddhism. Also, The King’s Palace is another structure that reflects the royal past of Lomanthang. Along with the cultural and historic beauty, Lomanthang has equally mesmerizing natural surroundings, which include; snowcapped peaks, the vibrant color of the sky, and a unique environment.
Lomanthang is the best place for off-the-beat trekkers. They can join the Upper Mustang trek in a unique environment to explore ancient caves and remote monasteries, interact with the local people, and listen to stories. Moreover, you can witness traditional festivals, such as the Tiji Festival, and participate in and learn about the Tibetan way of life.
Lomanthang offers the best weather, clear skies, and festivals in spring and autumn, making it the best time to visit. This place has a variety of accommodation options; you can choose according to your preferences. However, staying in a traditional Tibetan-style homestay is recommended, as you can experience the local way of life and try authentic Tibetan cuisine, including Momo, Thukpa, and butter tea.
The destination is simple but unique. It is perfect for escaping from digital traffic, spending time with yourself and your loved ones, and immersing yourself in the blend of culture, history, and nature. Lomanthang can be another unforgettable destination where you will find change or uniqueness in yourself.
Upper Dolpo
Upper Dolpo is an ancient land situated at 4,000 meters in northwestern Nepal. Located in the Dolpa District and bordered in the north by China, this region is highly influenced by Tibetan culture. It is Naturally beautiful as it lies within the Shey Phoksundo National Park, making it a perfect destination for those who seek culture, nature, wildlife, history, and adventure at the same time. Upper Dolpo is preferred by trekkers, mostly because getting to Upper Dolpo is an adventure. After the flight to Juphal, you start your trekking into the mesmerizing ancient land of the Dolpo region.
Upper Dolpo is renowned for its Tibetan Buddhism, the ancient Bon religion, and mainly for the people with their unique way of living. This village is quite untouched by modernity, making it better for you to explore pure ancient traditions and customs and the real way of living. In this region, you can visit ancient monasteries, including the most famous, Shey Gompa and Shey Phoksundo Lake (the deepest lake of Nepal). The surrounding picturesque landscapes of Shey Phoksundo National Park include hidden valleys, rugged mountains and cliffs, and diverse rare wildlife such as musk deer, blue sheep, and snow leopards.
The Upper Dolpo provides a highly rewarding but challenging experience to the trekkers and typically takes around 18 to 22 days. The trek to Upper Dolpo includes passing through several high mountain passes, such as the Kang La Pass and the Saldang La Pass, with breathtaking views of the stunning Himalayas.
In this region, you can find basic accommodations such as homestays that provide an authentic life experience for people living in the Himalayas. As a guest, you can learn about the customs and traditions, taste cuisines such as Tsampa, Thukpa, and butter tea, and even listen to their stories. However, the best time to visit this place is during the Shey Festival year, which happens only once in 12 years, you can also visit other than that in spring or autumn and enjoy the most of this ancient land.
Overall, Upper Dolpo is a mystical region full of authentic tradition and culture with endless natural untouched beauty in the surroundings. Whether you are a trekker, cultural enthusiast, or just a person seeking peace, Upper Dolpo is the best but underrated destination.
Rukum Taksera
Rukum Takshera is another gem hidden in the Rukum district of western Nepal. Rugged mountains, hills, and crystal-clear blue rivers surround this majestic village. At an altitude of Approximately 2,000 meters, this remote village holds vibrant beauty of nature and Magar culture.
Whenever you take your first step into this mesmerizing land, you’ll witness houses built from stones and mud that are over 100 years old, narrow alleys, the Roof of one house connected to the garden of another, beautiful woodworks representing the craftmanship passed down through generations and stunning surroundings. Rukum Takshera is also one of the rich cultural heritage, here you can find traditional Magar culture and their festivals like Bhume Puja and Maghe Sankranti where you can participate in traditional dances such as the Kaura dance.
At Takshera region you trek in several trekking routes that take you through forests, terraced fields, and remote villages. Moreover, at Rukumkot, you can find a beautiful Rukmini Tal (lake), surrounded by adorable natural scenery, where you can let all the stress go away and relax like never before. If you like adventure, for further adventurous, you can visit Mount Sisne, located in Rukum, and experience breathtaking panoramic vistas from the top of Mount Sisne.
More than that, Rukum Takshera is equally beautiful for its locals' daily lifestyle, where they participate in traditional farming, harvesting crops, and making local handicrafts. Staying at Homestays can enhance your golden hours by trying different authentic Nepali cuisine, including Dal bhat, Gundruk, etc. It also allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture, listen to their stories, and experience peace like never before.
Rukum Takshera can be an authentic experience for travelers seeking to explore the lesser-known region of Nepal. Away from modernity and available with preserved Nepali customs and traditions, stunning landscapes, engaging with rich culture, soaking into the serene environment, or diving into the real simple way of living, Rukum Takshera provides you an unforgettable memories of golden hours in your life.
Tsum Valley
Himalayan paradise is what Tsum Valley can be called.
Tsum Valley is in the northern Gorkha district of Nepal, and it mainly offers unforgettable experiences for trekkers and cultural enthusiasts. Residents of Tsum Valley, Tsumbas, have preserved their rich Tibetan culture. Known as the Valley of Happiness, it is part of the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Tsum itself means “vivid,” as the place also shows vivid Nature. Tsum has waterfalls, ancient forests, terraced fields, and vibrant culture. One of the most famous things about Tsum Valley is its rich Tibetan Buddhist culture which has preserved monasteries, stupas, and prayer flags everywhere. MuGompa and Rachen Gompa are spiritual sites that date back hundreds of years, making this place a must-visit destination for cultural enthusiasts.
If you are a trekker, the natural beauty of Tsum Valley will melt your heart. You can witness the stunning snow-capped peaks of Ganesh Himal and Shingri Himal from the valley. If you are willing to hike a little, you’ll immerse yourself in the beauty of the Himalayas. Moreover, the valley has Milarepa Cave, a place where you can feel peaceful and relaxed. This place was named after the Tibetan Buddhist saint Milarepa, who used to meditate there.
Other activities you can do at Tsum include trekking, which has fewer crowded trails and passes through different villages, rhododendron forests, and rocky hills or cliffs. Interacting with the locals and learning about ancient customs, traditions, and stories is an enriching experience. Moreover, visiting local monasteries and participating in Buddhist ceremonies is another thing you can do if you love spirituality, experience peace, and explore your inner self.
Enough with the activities, at Tsum Valley, you can choose your accommodation however, staying at Tsumba homestay is the best way to immerse in the culture and experience a real way of living more simply. Also, you can taste traditional Tibetan and Nepali Cuisines like Dal Bhat, Thukpa, and tsampa without any modernity just you and nature. If you plan your trip during festival time you can explore even more and enjoy the most and try homemade beer, also known as chhyang here.
To sum up, for a true and unique trekking experience that blends natural and cultural beauty with spirituality, you can choose Tsum Valley, the perfect destination for that. This place will mesmerize your heart. Thus, away from the daily hustle and bustle of this modern world, Tsum Valley provides the best unforgettable memory to loosen up your stress.
