With foggy farm-to-village landscape, dark grey wet roads, and a crystal clear atmosphere that emphasizes the details of the hills and mountains, the rainy season in Nepal comes with its unique sense of beauty. As one of the countries receiving the most rainfall, some are popular while some rare Nepali tourist sites offer breathtaking experiences for tourists and travellers looking to soak in the main attractions in Nepal. Although this season and the tourist season in Nepal may seem to not align, there are tons of places you can take a trip to embrace the wonders of the season to the fullest. Here are some of the places to visit and things to do in the most popular destinations.
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is rich in culture, history, and architectural marvels. Even during the rainy season, the city offers a myriad of attractions that captivate visitors. The rain enhances the lushness of the surrounding hills and the vibrancy of the city's gardens, providing a unique and refreshing experience. Here are some Kathmandu sightseeing places and tourist spots that you can visit on a rainy day.
One of the Kathmandu tourist attractions, Kathmandu Durbar Square, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to palaces, courtyards, and temples built between the 12th and 18th centuries. The rain adds a mystical charm to the historical structures, making it a picturesque spot for photography and exploration. You can sit on a temple shed and enjoy how the colours of the bricks change with the rain and the sun.
Residing on of a hill, Swayambhunath offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. The stupa is adorned with colourful prayer flags that flutter in the monsoon breeze. The journey to the top, whether by stairs or a short drive, is an adventure in itself, especially with the added lushness from the rains. It is a different kind of charm looking for a shaded spot and looking out to the watering city, you will get a chance to embrace it from a different perspective that most tourists miss out on.
This sacred Hindu temple, located on the banks of the Bagmati River, is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple complex is expansive and is particularly serene during the rainy season. The surrounding greenery and the tranquil river create a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and worship. Around the back, there are seating spots where you can view the entire temple from the top angle. Religious chants, the smell of burnt diyos, and the sense of depth and peace over the aryaghat will take you to the intertwined mysteries of the presence of the temple.
Kathmandu is easily accessible by air, with Tribhuvan International Airport serving as the main entry point. From the airport, taxis and private transfers are available to take you to various sightseeing places around its most popular tourist destinations. Within the city, public transport, taxis, as well as rentable vehicles are convenient options for getting around.
The city is neatly tucked in by the breathtaking Phewa Lake, the city is known for its stunning natural beauty and adventure activities. The city also remains one of the best tourist places in Nepal, even in the rainy season. The monsoon rain transforms the landscape, making the lakes fuller and the greenery more vibrant. It is a different kind of memory to walk along the lakeside of the city, following the pouring rain, and witnessing how gracefully the drops become a part of the lake.
The Phewa Lake never gets old and rusted of its majestic beauty that everyone craves on their trip to Pokhara. Also one of the most famous places in Nepal, The lake is enchanting during the rainy season, surrounded by lush forests and hills. Taking a paddle boat through the rain and paddling to the edges of the lake, you will leave all your worries behind and simply experience one of the most adventurous moments of your lifetime. Despite the rain, the Annapurna range still reflects on the water as clearly as day, and there you will witness a senary you’ve never encountered before.
A unique waterfall that flows into an underground tunnel, Davis Falls is particularly spectacular during the rainy season when the water flow is at its peak. The thundering sound and the mist created by the falls make it a popular attraction among tourists. Going through the Gupteshor cave with the rainwater lightly falling through the stony creases, you will get an opportunity to greet the waterfall at its wildest moment.
Situated on a hilltop, the World Peace Pagoda offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna range, Pokhara City, and Phewa Lake. The pagoda, a symbol of peace, is a perfect place for meditation and enjoying the tranquil surroundings. The hike or drive up to the pagoda through the rain-kissed forest is an adventure in itself. As the rain pours, you will be taken to a different realm of peace and serenity as you witnessed the city and the lake fading into each other with the fogs of the rain. When the rain calms, the atmosphere is as clear as ever and you will get to view the mountains at their clearest and intricate detailed form.
Pokhara is accessible by air and road. Regular flights operate between Kathmandu and Pokhara, making it a convenient and quick journey. Alternatively, you can take a scenic bus ride from Kathmandu, which offers glimpses of Nepal’s countryside. Within Pokhara, taxis, bikes, and boats are available for exploring various tourist attractions.
Despite the rainy season, Nepal offers a plethora of attractions that are enhanced by the monsoon rains. From the historical and cultural richness of Kathmandu to the natural beauty and adventure opportunities in Pokhara, there is something for every traveller. The rainy season in Nepal brings out a unique charm in these places, making it a wonderful time to visit and experience the country's diverse attractions.
Kathmandu and Pokhara are excellent destinations to visit during the rainy season due to their rich cultural sites and natural beauty that is enhanced by the rains.
Pokhara is known for receiving the highest rainfall in Nepal, making its lakes and waterfalls particularly impressive during the monsoon.
On a rainy day in Kathmandu, you can visit indoor attractions such as museums, explore the historic Durbar Square, or enjoy the serene atmosphere at the Pashupatinath Temple.
The Kathmandu Valley, with its rich cultural heritage and numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is one of the most visited places in Nepal.