What to expect in Visit Nepal 2020?

visit nepal 2020

What to expect in ‘Visit Nepal 2020’ is a big question mark that surely arises amongst those travelers with itchy feet. Frequent visitors of this spectacular country must be wondering what extraordinary things Nepal has to offer during the Visit Nepal 2020 year. Let us bring out some facts about the background and the efforts made by Nepal Tourism Board in organizing this gala campaign.

Initially, the Tourism Board of Nepal had announced this campaign for the year 2018 but due to the devastating 2015 earthquake, the mega promotion had to be pushed back to 2020. Another reason to postpone this event was the slow upgrading process of the International Airport in Kathmandu. In addition, the delayed construction of Gautam Buddha International Airport in Lumbini also added to rescheduling the campaign. As a result of the grand success of the Visit Nepal Year 1998 and Nepal Tourism Year 2011, it was yet another attempt to introduce the drive ‘Visit Nepal 2020.’

The Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Nepal initiated the Visit Nepal 2020 crusade some time after the earthquake in 2015. It was scheduled with a cause to promote that Nepal was still a safe place to travel and only 16% of the country’s regions were affected by the destructive earthquake.  Now, the government of Nepal is working day and night to ensure a successful Visit Nepal 2020 year. As of now, Nepal receives nearly one million visitors each year. The tourism maneuver during the year 2020 is expected to double the visitors to at least 2 million arrivals.

The major source of tourism during Visit Nepal 2020 is expected to be from countries like USA, China, UK, India and Sri Lanka. The campaign will undoubtedly guide the development of tourism throughout the country. The government of Nepal in coordination with Tourism Board has been working effortlessly to manage the cost of traveling, food and accommodation for the said operation. Nonetheless, there are no second thoughts about visitors being fascinated by the natural splendor and the dying-out species of fauna.

Most of the foreigners look at Nepal only as a mountainous country and visit this tiny land majorly for trekking and city sightseeing reasons. However, Visit Nepal 2020 not only focuses on mountain trekking but also prioritizes cultural and religious tourism. Promoters have sketched this campaign to endorse places like Lumbini, Muktinath, Swargadwari, Janakpur, Khaptad, and many similar destinations. Promoting places like Kanyam, Ilam, and Pathibhara are most likely to be monumental to give visitors some fresh retreat locations thereby enhancing tourism.

Is it safe to travel to Nepal after the 2015 earthquake?

after and before earthquake

During April 2015, Nepal was struck by a ruinous earthquake. The dreadful earthquake took lives of about 9 thousand people and caused severe damage in various parts of the country. As a result, Nepal saw a sharp downfall in the arrival of tourists in the following year. Many travelers are still in a state of bewilderment as to whether it is safe to visit Nepal or not. To bring these travelers out of their uncertainty, we would like to mention that Nepal is as safe as it used to be earlier. The country is transforming itself and open for travel without any threats at present.

Today, Nepal is perfectly safe to visit. The restoration and renovation of temples and heritage sites are still going on and expected to be completed this year. Damaged hotels at most places have been refurbished and there are no problems along the trekking routes as well. At present, all the main trekking routes are proclaimed safe to travel, and the National Parks cleared for visitors. The highway routes connecting major cities in Nepal did not suffer any damages, so traveling around Nepal is not a problem. The government deems transportation infrastructure and airline services to be improved so that there is smooth flow of domestic as well as international tourists. So, in a nutshell, Nepal is as safe as any other places in the world to travel.

Why should I visit Nepal?

Nepal is often regarded as one of the best places to visit. It has found a spot on the ‘World’s top 10 destinations’ list determined by renowned sites like Lonely Planet, Forbes, and BBC Travel etc. Nepal possesses spectacular Himalayan splendor, striking multicultural facets and natural beauty in abundance. It also has plenty of Hindu and Buddhist pilgrim sites, marvelous countryside, and verdant southern jungles. Travelers from all around the globe visit Nepal in large numbers each year. There are endless reasons for a traveler to visit Nepal. From amongst the several purposes why a traveler should visit Nepal, the following are the most significant reasons:

  • Trekking and mountain climbing
  • Witness several ethnic groups, distinct culture and tradition
  • Experience the numerous festival celebrations
  • Experience numerous adventurous activities
  • Short distances to travel within the country
  • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites
  • Unforgettable mountain flights
  • Delicious variety of cuisines
  • Biodiversity of birds, butterflies and endangered animal species
  • Reasonable cost of vacation trip in Nepal
  • Secure from epidemic of life-threatening diseases
  • Technologically developed nation
  • Architectural handicrafts and art works
  • Hassle free visa processing
  • Volunteering options
  • Center for spiritual awakening, yoga and meditation
  • Home of the ‘living goddess’ Kumari
  • Remote village’s lifestyle
  • Backpacker’s haven

Although one doesn’t need any specific reason to visit a beautiful country like Nepal, there are plenty of reasons that will justify their sojourn in the Himalayan nation. Nepal has always been and will always be a dream destination for those who cherish to step foot on the base of the tallest mountain in the world. In addition, it brings a great feeling of pride to testify after traveling to the land where Lord Buddha was born. For whatever reason travelers visit Nepal, it is eventually bound to create a plethora of wonderful memories and worth every penny they spend.

Visit Nepal 2020: What to expect?

The main intent of Visit Nepal 2020 campaign is to promote Nepal as a tourism destination. It also aims to perk up the economic state of affairs of the country. This intellectual move made by the government will certainly prove to be the backbone to shore up the flimsy fiscal conditions especially in the rural areas. It is a known fact that Nepal has always been a prototype among world’s top tourist destinations. It was in 1953 when Mt. Everest was first scaled that tourism in Nepal got underway. Gradually, tourism flourished and eventually during the 60s and 70s the hippies made Nepal their ecstatic haven. After the era of the hippies in Nepal, tourism made rapid progress and was exposed to the entire world. Within years, Nepal gathered millions of tourists who marveled at the impressive peaks, cultural heritage, and the tranquil country life.

It is now obvious that tourism is the major economic enhancer of Nepal. So, it is indispensable on the part of Nepal’s government to host various tourism campaigns like Visit Nepal 2020. On a positive note, we provide assurance that this gala campaign will be filled with magnificence and matchless experiences. Below, we have mentioned some of the exciting things that a traveler can expect from Visit Nepal 2020:

1. Explore the Everest region

greatest treaking pick in nepal

It is known to the world that the highest mountain on the planet, Mt. Everest is situated in Nepal. Also, 8 out of the 14 tallest mountains in the world stand proudly in the same very country. Travelers have plenty of options to explore the Everest region. Scaling the tallest mountain, going for a spectacular Everest Base Camp Trek, doing the Everest High Passes Trek or simply enjoying the Everest View Trek are some of the best experiences in the Everest region of Nepal.

2. Trekking and mountaineering in the Himalayas

everest-high-pass-trek

For those who have heard of Nepal, they know it because of the trekking and mountaineering activities, and of course the tallest mountain on earth. The Himalayas are truly incomparable to anything else in the world. Apart from Mt. Everest, other impressive treks in Nepal are Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Langtang Valley Trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek, Nar Phu Valley Trek, Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, Tsum Valley Trek, and many others.

3. Visit the birthplace of Lord Buddha

Lumbini

Not many people know that the great Buddhist preacher Lord Buddha was born in Nepal although they might have heard about him. Buddha was born as a prince but later renounced everything including his own wife and son seeking the real meaning of life. Lumbini in western part of Nepal is where Buddha was born. The place is now a famous pilgrimage site where thousands of tourists visit and pay homage each year.  There is not much to see in Lumbini besides some ruins, a monastery and beautiful gardens. It is a lifetime opportunity for travelers to visit the sacred site and see whatever is remaining at Buddha’s birth place before it all vanishes. The major attractions of Lumbini are Maya Devi Temple, World Peace Pagoda, Lumbini Museum, Cambodian Monastery, Royal Thai Buddhist Monastery, Ashoka Pillar, Myanmar Golden Temple, China Temple, Bodhi Tree, and Buddha Vihar.

4. World Heritage Sites

world-heritage-sites-nepal

From the 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nepal, seven are present within the Kathmandu Valley. These heritage sites are incredible artificial wonders some of which are more than 2500 years old. The three sites located outside the capital city are Lumbini, Chitwan National Park, and Sagarmatha National Park. The seven sites in the capital city lie close to each other therefore it is possible to visit all of them within a single day. These historical sites are namely Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, Bouddhanath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and Changu Narayan Temple.

5. Wildlife & Exotic Birds

wild-tiger

Apart from the awe-inspiring mountain trips, spotting the Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinos, crocodiles, elephant and other feral animals is an admirable experience. Travelers can rejoice and take delight on an exciting wildlife safari in Chitwan National Park. For bird lovers, over 400 species of birds such as ducks, eagles, storks, kingfishers, geese and other exotic species are found in Koshi Tappu Wildlife reserve and Bardia National Park.

6. Adventure Activities

adventure-tours-in-nepal

Beyond belief, Nepal has almost all the adventure activities including some of the extreme sporting events. Some of the thrilling adventures that await visitors are white-water rafting, kayaking, canyoning, bungee jumping, paragliding, ultra light flight, zip flying, mountain biking, hot air ballooning, canoeing, rock climbing, sky diving, and snow skiing. If you are an adventure enthusiast, then yes, you are heading your way to the right direction. Nepal has it all. Why not try a little bit of everything while you are here in Nepal?

7. Helicopter tours

helicopter-tours-nepal

Exploring the mountains and the remote corners of Nepal is possible to do in a short time frame while you are soaring high on a chopper. Glimpses of the medieval towns and cities filled with palaces and temples, the giant Himalayan peaks, green valleys, and lush forests are at its best from aerial view. Those who wish to visit the most popular trekking destinations on a single day can opt for Everest Base Camp Heli Tour, Muktinath Helicopter Tour, Upper Mustang Helicopter Tour, Gosaikunda Helicopter Tour, or Langtang Helicopter Tour.

8. Visit the highest lake in the world

highest-lake-of-the-world-tilicho

Visiting the world’s highest altitude lake located at an altitude of 4949m above sea level is an extremely adventurous journey. Visitors trekking in the Annapurna region can add this destination as a side trip. Reaching here can be grueling as the route comprises landslide affected areas but the endeavor will certainly provide jaw-dropping compensations.

9. Short treks and one-day hikes

Short Treak in nepal

Nepal has something for everyone. For those who come to Nepal for a short duration, yet wish to trek can indulge in short treks comprising 3 to 5 days. Another option for them would be to take on multiple one-day hikes within the Kathmandu Valley. Some most popular day tours are Pokhara Full Day Tour, Kathmandu World Heritage Sites Tour, Nagarkot Sunrise & Bhaktapur Tour, Bungamati Khokana Village Tour, and many more. To experience walking on the rims of the Kathmandu Valley, travelers may embark on popular day hikes like Nagarkot Full Day Hiking Tour, Day Hike through Shivapuri National Park and similar other hiking tours. Tourists may ask their operators to customize their programs according to their convenient time and budget. We, at Royal Holidays, are ever ready to provide you holidays according to your will and convenience.

10. Experience the authentic Nepali cuisines

Nepal is a country with 126 castes and ethnic group of communities that speak over 120 different languages. It may be well understood that such diverse ethnic groups will have their own culture, traditions, beliefs, languages and of course, cuisines. When you visit places in Nepal, the common staple food however, is the ubiquitous Dal, Bhaat, Tarkari (Lentil soup, steamed rice, vegetable). Urban areas, on the other hand, are more famous for their momos (steamed dumplings). Whatever it takes, you need to try these food items during your visit to Nepal, thereby making your travel complete. Nonetheless, different parts of Nepal and different communities have their own peculiar food items that are worth trying.

11. Perfect harmony between Hindus and Buddhists

The great Buddhist preacher Lord Buddha was born in Nepal. Similarly, one of the largest Hindu temples in the world, Pashupatinath lies in the same country. Likewise, there are countless numbers of temples as well as Buddhist monasteries in Nepal. It is a fascinating scenario to witness Buddhist and Hindu devotees getting along in perfect harmony. At many places, you will be able to see a temple and a monastery facing each other and people worshipping without any communal feelings. Turning the pages of history, there has never been an incident of communal riots or other religious conflicts. Be here to witness the collective religious brotherhood; it is such an amazing sentiment.

12. Nepalese festivals

With 126 different ethnicities, it is obvious that there are as many cultures and festive occasions in Nepal. Perhaps, Nepal is one country that celebrates the most festivals in the whole world. Every month, Nepal has a certain festival to celebrate regardless the importance of the festival. During Visit Nepal 2020, tourists can expect to get themselves indulged in one of the major festivals of Nepal and understand its significance to the Nepali people. The biggest festival Dashain, lasting for 15 days, falls during the month of October. The gala festival honors a great victory of the gods over the evil demons. The other major festivals celebrated in Nepal are:

  • Tihar (festival of lights)
  • Chhath (festival of worshipping the sun)
  • Janai Purnima (sacred thread festival)
  • Nag Panchami (festival of snakes)
  • Krishna Janmashtami (festival celebrated as the birth day of Lord Krishna)
  • Losar (Buddhist festival of the highlander communities)
  • Gai Jatra (the festival of cows)
  • Indra Jatra (festival of Indra, the god of rain and fertility)
  • Maghe Sankranti (major harvest festival)
  • Basanta Panchami (festival in honor of goddess Saraswati, the goddess of learning)
  • Holi (festival of colors)
  • Ghode Jatra (festival celebrated to keep the demon’s spirit at bay)

Best season to visit Nepal

Nepal’s weather is pleasant during the day but gets radically cold at nights from late December to February. January is the coldest month and visitors to Nepal are comparably less. March is the beginning of spring season with considerable increase in temperatures and rhododendron starts blooming. Days are considerably longer while the temperatures are still cool at night. Spring is the most popular season for travelers to visit Nepal. May is summer and probably the warmest month in Nepal but will gradually invite clouds and light showers before the arrival of monsoon. Beginning from June to August is the monsoon season in Nepal where days are warm, wet and largely humid. Less numbers of tourists are seen in Nepal during the monsoon time. With the disappearance of monsoon in September, the weather in Nepal becomes pleasant once again. Beautiful clear skies, fresh air and incredible views can be observed on the onset of autumn season. The following months of October and November are in fact, the best months for traveling to Nepal, especially for trekkers.

Conclusion

Promoting Nepal as a spectacular tourism destination is the chief intention of Visit Nepal 2020 campaign. The government of Nepal has split various sectors to uniformly promote and develop tourism for accomplishment of this drive on the whole. The sectors include Religion & Pilgrimage, Adventure & Outdoor activities, Nature & Wildlife, People & Heritage, and Cultural cities & Leisure. During the Visit Nepal 2020 year, travelers from around the globe are expected to experience the prehistoric temples, age-old monasteries and historical monuments. They will also get ample opportunities to witness the beautiful picturesque Himalayas, take up on several adventurous activities, and visit religious pilgrimage destinations.

The announcement of Visit Nepal 2020 year by the government of Nepal came at a time when the country was attempting to recuperate from the dreadful earthquake of 2015. It has also aimed to provide the much needed enhancement to rejuvenate the tourism industry of Nepal. It is most likely that Nepal will be able to host more than 2 million visitors during the year 2020. By targeting a large number of visitors, the Tourism Board of Nepal also expects to create more employment opportunities in the country. Eventually, the employment opportunities created is expected to support for Nepal to further prosper.

About Author

Sandip Tiwari

Namaste everybody, I am Sandip Tiwari, CEO of Royal Holidays Adventure. I have shared my experience and some important information about the trek through the blogs. If you are reading my blog please contact me via email royalholiday24@gmail.com or, WhatsApp +9779860110433. I will be available 24/7 to provide you the right information

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