A Rainy Day in Kathmandu
Many people might believe that a rainy day and a pleasant trip experience are unrelated, but you can still have a great time even when the sky is a drab blue and the ungracious clouds stream down huge globules of rain. On a rainy day in Kathmandu, get your rain gear and go visit the following locations:
A rainy day in Kathmandu discloses a delightful blend of local street foods and unique charm. As the heavens release their watery bounty, the city's culinary scene comes alive with various delectable treats, offering a sensory adventure unlike any other.
Head to the bustling streets to savor mouthwatering momos, those steaming dumplings filled with succulent meats or vegetables, perfect for warming your soul on a rainy day. Crispy pakoras, deep-fried and brimming with spices, create a burst of flavor, completing the soothing sound of rain.
As you wander through the rain-kissed streets, you'll encounter cozy tea stalls offering a variety of aromatic teas that provide comfort and warmth. Let the subtle spices in masala chai or ginger tea revitalize your senses as you watch the world go by from under your umbrella.
So, while the rain may seem daunting at first, a day in Kathmandu on such a day unveils a culinary and cultural experience that will leave you with cherished memories of vibrant street food and the magical ambiance of a rainy day in this enchanting city.
Take A Tour Around Kathmandu Valley-
The capital of Nepal, Kathmandu, stands apart from any other town worldwide. Its stunning structures contrast starkly with the lively atmosphere that fills the streets. The scent of incense breezes from stores as street vendors peddle their wares, and people go about their daily lives amid magnificent temples and carved sculptures. For centuries, Kathmandu competed with Bhaktapur and Patan as rival royal cities, which now exist almost side by side.
Known as the city of Temples, the Kathmandu Valley is home to the renowned World Heritage Sites. Monsoon is an ideal month for exploring this valley. With fewer visitors, the heritage sites remain uncrowded, allowing ample time to study each intricate detail. Among the top sights in the Kathmandu Valley are Swoyambhunath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple. Each site in Kathmandu Valley has religious and historical significance.
For those with extra time in August, consider visiting some honorable mentions, such as Chhauni Museum, Chandragiri Hills, White Gumba, Kapan Gumba, Shivapuri National Park, Garden of Dreams, Narayanhiti Royal Palace Museum, Namo Buddha, Budhanilkantha, and many more.
Other popular activities to do around Kathmandu- Bungee jumping, Paragliding, Hot air Ballooning, and Short treks around the Valley.
Short Tour to Pokhara Valley
Pokhara, like Kathmandu, has a variety of worthwhile destinations nearby. With less pollution, Pokhara is arguably the most picturesque valley in Nepal. This valley, located in the Kaski area of western Nepal, is well known for having numerous lovely lakes. Similarly, Pokhara is sometimes referred to as the city of lakes.
The city, too -boats many caves, cascades, streams, hills, mountains, adventurous locations, and natural beauty. The location provides you with a lot to enjoy during the storm. In addition, the fantastic Mt. Machhapuchhre is also quite close to Pokhara, as are three of the ten most notable mountains on earth (Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu). The entire mountain range, slopes, and circumstances become more clear and leave behind a pleasant mood after a heavy downpour of the storm.
Travelers enjoy setting off early during a storm in Nepal to catch the hopeful dawn and go on to various locations.
Phewa Lake, Shanti Stupa, Davis Fall, Sarangkot, International Mountain Museum, Gupteshwor Cave, Poon Hill, etc., are just a few of Pokhara's beautiful locations. Mountain climbing, cycling, bungee jumping, paragliding, sailing, and other activities are also available in Pokhara. In addition, during the downpour, rice is planted in Pokhara.
Pokhara is the ideal location in Nepal, whether during the monsoon, dry season, summer, or spring. Pokhara, also known as "Cherapunji" in Nepal, receives more rainfall than other areas. However, the morning and the day are often calm and clear, whereas the evening is when the rain typically pours down in torrents.
Pokhara offers breathtaking beauty, adventure, first-rate accommodation, and delicious food. The locations combine luxury with nature, and the streets resemble a more laid-back Thamel. Cycling, boating, sightseeing, cave exploration, and even a quick getaway are all options.
Popular activities to do: Mountain biking, Paragliding, Boating, Shot Trekking, Taking a hot air balloon ride
Visit Lumbini- The Birthplace of Lord Buddha
The birthplace of Gautam Buddha- Lumbini, is one of the most important Buddhist sites. Also, it's a breathtaking place to visit during the monsoon time too. Lumbini will impress you with its beauty and tranquillity whether you believe in it. We can honestly say that you will be speechless during your whole time there. For the best experience, book yourself a short trip to Lumbini- Lumbini Buddhist Circuit Tour- 7 Night 8 Days.
The birthplace of Gautam Buddha, Lumbini, is located in Nepal's western Rupandehi area. The most stunning monasteries from many Buddhist sects may be found here. Buddhist nations like Thailand, Myanmar, and Vietnam constructed it.
UNESCO has also included Lumbini on its list of world-historic sites. Tourists may still enjoy Lumbini's lush monsoon vegetation despite being a sacred location. Your sightseeing excursion will become more alluring as a result. Lumbini's well-known landmarks include the Maya Devi Temple, the Eternal Peace Flame, Tilaurakot, and the Ashoka Pillar. Just keep in mind to remove your shoes before you enter the temples.
A popular activity: Rent a bicycle and explore rural terrain, Explore monasteries, or sign up for a meditation class.
Visit Bandipur
Bandipur is renowned for its Newari culture and Siddha Gufa (Caves). The hilltop village of Bandipur will transport you back in time with its picturesque row homes, ancient temples, and monuments in the Monsoon season. It is indeed one of Nepal's most beautiful and desirable tourist destinations.
Bandipur, once a thriving center for clothing manufacturing and a commercial halt along the road between India and Tibet, is now a quiet town with just one main thoroughfare. The town is a subdued and well-liked tourist attraction because of the great Neoclassical home. These reminders of its former splendor and breathtaking vistas of the Himalayas.
Due to the plenty of boutique hotels and homestays, tourism generates a fresh economic mini-boom despite the fall in business brought on by eliminating malaria in the Terai and constructing the Prithvi Highway in the monsoon months. Here, the Himalayas can be seen in all their splendor and are framed by limestone peaks that rise romantically, as if they had dropped out of a Chinese brush painting.
Elephant bath time in Sauraha
Nepal has both the monsoon and summer seasons simultaneously. This means that Sauraha's elephant bathing season is at its finest when you visit in the Monsoon/ Summer months.
Sauraha (pronounced So-ruh-hah) is one of those unstoppably successful locations where Nepal appears to thrive. It is magnificently located on the banks of the Rapti River. Sauraha, a mix of hotels, restaurants, and retail establishments dispersed along arid roads at the jungle's edge, provides simple access to Chitwan National Park.
Some of Sauraha's elephants are carried to the Rapti River during elephant bathtime for a thorough cleaning, and visitors can participate in the experience for a modest price. Most visitors agree that taking part in an elephant bath is one of the nicest things to do in Nepal. Mahouts urge the elephant to sprinkle you with cool river water as you sit on its neck. For the best experience, book Chitwan Luxury Safari Tour - 3 Nights 4 Days.
Try Local Local cuisine
Nepal, particularly Kathmandu, is celebrated as the budget food capital of Asia. Regrettably, its recognition rests not on Nepali cuisine but pseudo-Western fare, as most Tourist eateries thrive on staples like pizza, fries, sizzling steaks, and apple pie. Yet, a diverse range of dishes awaits discovery beyond the well-trodden paths.
Momo, arguably the most famed Tibetan dish, graces the upland regions of Nepal. These dumplings are filled with meat, veggies, and ginger. They're steam-cooked and served with zesty tomato sauce and a comforting bowl of broth.
Tea, known as "Chiya," follows a traditional preparation method of boiling tea dust with milk (Dudh) and water, generously sweetened with sugar (Chini). A touch of ginger, cardamom, or pepper enhances the brew. In tourist establishments, you'll be presented with a teabag for "black" or "milk" tea, but if you desire the authentic version, specify "Nepali" or "masala" tea.
The Nepali capital, Kathmandu, has an impressive variety of street food vendors, cafes, bakeries, restaurants, bars, and pubs serving food from around the world, as well as regional favorites like “Dal Bhat Tarkari” (dal, rice, and vegetable curry) and momos (steamed or fried dumplings), as befits one of Asia's top backpacker hubs.
But before you depart, make sure you sample some of the local Kathmandu Valley Newari food. Even though most Nepalis are vegetarians, several Newari cuisines heavily contain meat, including buffalo, goat, and wild boar. Try baji (beaten rice with a texture akin to rolled oats) and Choila (hot, grilled buffalo strips).
Admire the Janaki Mandir
Janakpur, a Terai city famed for its connection to the Hindu epic Ramayana, boasts a striking temple, the Janaki Mandir. This beautiful marble temple, built in the elaborate Mughal style, is devoted to the goddess Sita, believed to have been found there as an infant. The temple comes alive in the early evening when illuminated with lights and resonates with gentle hymns.
Worshippers gather at Janaki Mandir in Janakpur, a splendid Mughal-style structure, paying homage to the legendary lovers Ram and Sita. The temple's history dates back to 1657 when a golden image of Sita was found on this spot. The present building, a fusion of plaster and marble, was constructed in 1911 by an Indian queen.
Inside is a courtyard and an inner sanctum where priests conduct rituals twice a day, revealing an intricate silver shrine behind a curtain. Non-Hindus are welcome to observe these rituals. The temple's magic is most captivating at night and early morning when the devotees gather in the warm lamplight.
Visiting Chitwan National Park
With approximately 500 rhinos living in the Chitwan National Park, sightings are almost certain during your visit to Chitwan National Park in Monsson. Recent efforts at tiger conservation have also been quite adequate, and it is currently believed that there are much more tigers in the park than the 120 that were counted there in 2013.
The park has 68 animal species, including four deer species, a sloth bear, a leopard, and a langur. With 544 species identified, Chitwan is Nepal's most significant bird sanctuary. Over 150 different species of butterflies may be found in the park, along with two different varieties of crocodiles.
While taking a jungle walk, a boat trip along the Rapti River, or a Jeep safari, discover the variety of species that inhabits Chitwan National Park. On this escorted Wildlife Jungle Safari, explore the undiscovered routes that wind across the hills under the shadow of the Himalayas.
The public park in Chitwan is a popular place for tourists to stroll. Therefore, we advise tourists to go between February and May. At that time, the old grasses are consumed, and new grasses are planted so that more animals may be seen from a distance.
Chitwan is about 150 kilometers from Kathmandu Valley. The district is incredibly hot because it is in Nepal's Terai region.
Trek to Everest Base Camp
When you first arrive at Khumbu during monsoon season, it will appear as though the world is ending, and that is exactly how it feels there.
Given the significant risk of landslides and floods, monsoon is undoubtedly not Nepal's greatest trekking season. However, if you want adventure and like to be lost in a dismal, wet, and foggy atmosphere, you might consider hiking to Everest Base Camp in the rainy season.
You may find trekking more challenging during the wet season. Weather changes every hour, constant rain, and water everywhere, the trails are slick, and there is occasionally a possibility of landslides and challenging terrain. However, if you have ever witnessed a monsoon in all its splendor, you would understand there is no other season like it.
The trail won't be as congested this time, and you'll have more time to take in the Everest Region.
Trek to Annapurna Region
Another popular viewing trip in Nepal is the one to Annapurna in the monsoon season. When visiting Annapurna, you receive a unique viewpoint of the region's varied geology, snow-capped mountains, waterfall views, and lush green flora.
The Kali Gandaki River valley, inhabited by Thakalis, is the deepest in the world. The Annapurna Himalayan region is serene on the day you will be there.
Additionally, you may explore other fascinating civilizations, locations, and behaviors. In the lower areas of the district and upper areas, you will culture Hindu and Buddhist cultures, respectively.
Although there is less rain during the Annapurna storm, the trails are still wet in some way. Nevertheless, if you go on this adventure, your eyes will glance at the typically lush landscapes and spectacular sights.
White Water Rafting - A Thrilling Monsoon Activity
Although most famous as a trekking destination, Nepal also offers world-class white water rafting (and kayaking), with plenty of options for novices and pros alike. For an economical introduction, take a one- or two-day trip along the Trisuli River, which is close to Kathmandu.
Alternatively, test yourself on the more challenging Bhote Kosi, Nepal’s steepest rafting river surging down from the Tibetan border, or try a week-long journey through the wilderness on the Sun Kosi or Tamur rivers.
Even for beginners, short rafting and kayaking adventures are accessible in Nepal. Some of the lengthier journeys are timeless classics that provide an unforgettable experience. If you have the money and time, extending your trekking journey is worth it by including a rafting excursion at the beginning or end of your visit to the Monsoon season in Nepal.
Organise Other Short Treks in Nepal
Nepal has many trekking opportunities, from day climbs to difficult, demanding expeditions. If you are concerned that the heavy rains may disrupt your vacation, select short and simple travels around Kathmandu and the Pokhara Valley.
Pokhara has several short trekking alternatives, including Ghorepani Poonhill Trekking, a day hike to World Peace Pagoda, Sarangkot climb, and Dhampus Trek.
Similarly, if you are in Kathmandu during these months, you may select from Chisapani Nagarkot Hike, Nagarkot Changunarayan Day Hike, Chandragiri-Champadevi Day Hike, Nagarkot Dhulikhel Day Hike, and so on. These treks will keep you entertained during your Nepal vacation.
Look out for Adventure Sports
You may plan more fun and exciting activities during your vacation during the monsoon season, in addition to hiking and trekking. As you move to Pokhara, a lovely city, you may participate in thrilling Zip Flying and Paragliding.
You may experience exhilarating Bungee jumping after arriving at Parbat. Elephant safaris, canoeing, jungle hikes, and cultural performances are all possible while Chitwan is home to the Chitwan National Park.
You may go whitewater rafting in these months on the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli rivers. These months should be attentive since the river's water flow is so strong. These all fall under the adventure sports category, just like the crowded Nepali trekking paths.
Final Say-
The Nepal Monsoon Season can generally seem like it might be challenging. Still, the popular places around the Everest and Annapurna trails may also be simple to travel in the monsoon season. But there are other fantastic hikes at lower altitudes, and going behind the Himalayas is exciting.
It is the perfect location for hiking and photographing all because of the region's stunning mountains and verdant valleys. In this nice setting, you may also engage in some daring sports. And most of the hotels and restaurants are located next to rivers and streams, giving you the best tour and stay in Nepal.
The rain will just be a slight inconvenience that you will quickly get used to, and we are confident you will have a fantastic experience. The intensity of the rainfall varies in different regions here. This being said, if you prepare and anticipate a lot, you can be pleasantly surprised.
Even on a rainy August, the rainfall rarely affects ordinary sightseeing. The neighborhood will be disconnected from the tourist area, giving greater opportunities for introductions and welcomes in less busy areas.
Regardless, with a little planning, you may admire the green and rich vegetation, flowering blooms, and distinctive rural building style that may not be possible during other visiting seasons.
As a result, if you want to examine Nepal during the rainy season, research, figure out what you may look for, and make the most of it. You will not be disappointed.
