Road Trips in Nepal

While travelling around Nepal, you can't forget about its capital - Kathmandu. A must-see attraction is, of course, its Old Town and the Buddhist temple, Boudhanath. It's also worth directing your steps to the old commercial district, Thamel, where you can find multiple shops, restaurants, and hotels of varied standard. You should also take a look at the nearby town of Bhaktapur for the 18th-century temple of Bhaktapur and the Royal Palace from 1428. 

Central part of Nepal is a treasure trove of scenic recesses. A proof will be Pokhara located nearby Lake Phewa Tal. Among its greatest highlights, you'll find Devi Waterfall, Mahendra Gufa Cave, and Varahi Bhagvati Temple. Additional assets of this place are breathtaking views on Annapurna and the location at a stone's throw away from Baglung, ideal for the lovers of trekking, rafting, and cycling trips. 

Moving slightly more to the west, you'll come across the third largest city in the country - Patan. Its characteristic element is the medieval housing and numerous Hindu temples constructed in the period between 15th and 17th centuries. While sauntering along its streets, you should definitely see Patan Durbar Square full of fascinating Newar temples. If this isn't enough for you, visit other equally interesting towns, such as Tansen, Hetauda, or Lumbini. 

If you dream about spending your holidays close to nature, you should visit one of the Nepalese nature reserves or national parks. For example, you can opt for the Chitwan National Park located in the southern part of the country and the nearby Parsa Wildlife Reserve. Each of them is home to various plant and animal species and will surely charm you with its beauty, stunning atmosphere, and pristine nature. 

Suggested Road Trips in Nepal

• Kathmandu to Pokhara: This is one of the most popular road trips in Nepal, and for good reason. The journey takes you through scenic mountain roads, picturesque villages, and stunning landscapes. Along the way, you can stop at popular tourist destinations such as Bandipur, Tansen and Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha. The highlight of the trip is the city of Pokhara, which offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and is known for its lakeside atmosphere.

• Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park: For the nature lovers, the road trip from Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park is a must. The journey takes you south of Kathmandu through rugged mountain terrain and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan range. Along the way, you can explore the traditional villages along Tribhuvan Highway's. The trip culminates in a visit to the Chitwan National Park.

• Mustang Circuit: This road trip takes you to the remote and isolated region of Mustang, which was once an independent kingdom. The journey takes you through stunning mountain terrain and offers a glimpse into the unique culture and traditions of the Mustang people. Along the way, you can explore ancient monasteries, visit the holy city of Lo Manthang, and experience the traditional way of life in this remote region.

Each of these road trips offers a unique experience and is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Moving around Nepal is a daunting challenge, regardless of whether you are travelling by minibus, bus, taxi, or train. The streets are governed by chaos as native motorists don't follow even the most basic traffic regulations. An additional problem is the dire state of local roads, numerous accidents, and - for some - left-hand traffic. 

If you cope well in difficult conditions, you can think about renting a car, for example, at the Kathmandu Airport. The best option will be to choose a 4x4 off-road vehicle which will allow you to glide along damaged road surfaces and unpaved Nepalese streets. If you are a visiting tourist, you need to have an International Driving Permit.   

When taking a road trip in Nepal, it is important to be aware of certain factors to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Road conditions: Nepal has a variety of road conditions, ranging from well-paved highways to rough dirt tracks. It's important to research your route ahead of time and be prepared for any potential hazards. Landslides and flooding can also occur during the monsoon season, so it's best to plan your trip during the dry season.

• Traffic: Nepal's roads can be crowded and chaotic, particularly in urban areas. Drivers may not always follow traffic laws, so it's important to drive defensively and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Be prepared for narrow roads and steep drop-offs in mountainous areas.

• Altitude sickness: If you plan to drive in Nepal's mountainous regions, it's important to be aware of the risk of altitude sickness. Symptoms can include headache, nausea, and fatigue. To avoid altitude sickness, it's recommended to acclimatize gradually and drink plenty of water.

• Permits and documents: Certain areas of Nepal require special permits to access, such as the Annapurna and Everest regions. It's important to obtain these permits ahead of time and carry them with you during your trip. Additionally, you'll need to have a valid driver's license and vehicle registration documents with you at all times.

• Safety: While Nepal is generally a safe country, it's important to take certain precautions when traveling by road. Avoid driving at night, particularly in rural areas where road conditions may be poor. Keep your valuables out of sight and be wary of scams or thefts targeting tourists.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable road trip in Nepal. With its stunning mountain scenery, vibrant culture, and friendly locals, Nepal is an ideal destination for a memorable road trip.

The best time to take a road trip in Nepal is during the autumn season, which is from September to November, and the spring season, which is from March to May. During these months, the weather is clear and dry, making it easier to drive on the roads. However, it is important to note that the weather in the mountainous regions of Nepal can be unpredictable, so it is important to check weather conditions before embarking on a road trip. Additionally, the monsoon season, from June to August, can make driving on roads difficult due to landslides and flooding.

If you're planning a road trip in Nepal, it's essential to pack the right gear and equipment to ensure a comfortable and safe journey. Here are some things you should consider packing and bringing with you:

• Clothing: Nepal has a varied climate, so you should pack clothes suitable for different weather conditions. Lightweight clothes for hot and humid conditions, a warm jacket, a raincoat or waterproof jacket, and hiking boots or sturdy shoes are essential.

• Sun Protection: Nepal is a sunny country, so you'll need to protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays. Pack sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and a hat to keep your skin and eyes protected.

• Navigation Tools: It's a good idea to bring navigation tools like a map, GPS device, or smartphone with a GPS app. These tools will help you navigate unfamiliar roads and ensure that you stay on the right track.

• First Aid Kit: Accidents and injuries can happen, especially if you're planning to do some hiking or other outdoor activities. Pack a first aid kit with essential items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, painkillers, and any prescription medication you may need.

• Water and Snacks: Staying hydrated is important, so bring plenty of water with you on your road trip. It's also a good idea to bring some healthy snacks like fruits, nuts, or energy bars to keep you fueled and energized during the journey.

• Cash: While credit and debit cards are accepted in many places in Nepal, it's still a good idea to carry some cash with you for emergencies or in case you find yourself in an area without ATMs or card facilities.

• Power Bank: A power bank or portable charger will come in handy to keep your smartphone or other electronic devices charged while on the road.

• Camera: Nepal is a country of stunning natural beauty, so you'll want to capture your journey with a good quality camera. Whether you prefer a DSLR, point-and-shoot, or a smartphone camera, make sure you have enough storage and batteries.

By packing these essentials, you'll be ready to take on the adventure of a road trip in Nepal.

There are several guidebooks and road maps available for road trips in Nepal. Here are some recommendations:

• Lonely Planet Nepal (Travel Guide): This guidebook is a popular choice for travelers visiting Nepal. It provides comprehensive information on the country's history, culture, attractions, and practicalities like transportation, accommodation, and food. It also includes detailed maps and suggested itineraries for road trips.

• Nepal Road Atlas by Nepa Maps: This is a detailed road atlas that covers the entire country, including major highways, secondary roads, and dirt tracks. It also includes information on national parks, hiking trails, and tourist attractions. The atlas is available in both paper and digital formats.

• Nepal Adventure Map by National Geographic: This map is designed for outdoor enthusiasts and covers the country's popular trekking and mountaineering routes. It includes topographic information, trail descriptions, and recommended hiking times. The map is waterproof, tear-resistant, and can be easily folded.

• Nepal Map by Rough Guides: This map provides an overview of Nepal's geography, including mountain ranges, rivers, and cities. It also highlights major tourist attractions and includes a detailed street plan of Kathmandu. The map is easy to use and is available in both paper and digital formats.

• Insight Guides Nepal: This guidebook provides a more cultural and historical perspective on Nepal. It includes information on the country's religious and spiritual practices, as well as its architecture and art. The book also includes suggested itineraries for road trips and a detailed section on Kathmandu.

All of these guidebooks and road maps are easily available online or at major bookstores. They will help you plan your road trip in Nepal and ensure that you don't miss any of the country's amazing sights and experiences.