Family holidays with children in Nepal - attractions and entertainment

Is Nepal a suitable country for parents with children? Can families visit this South Asian country? As a rule, parents ask these questions when they search for a suitable destination for the next family holiday. When it comes to Nepal, there is no definite “yes” or “no”. It depends on what you expect from a vacation. Nepal is not a resort country. There are no white sandy beaches and sea or ocean here. Such traditional amusements for children as aquaparks, children’s swimming pools, and groups of animators at hotels are also not present. Only some Hilton or Radisson hotels in the capital might offer something similar.

On the other hand, Nepal is an ancient country with interesting historic attractions, diverse animal world, and jungles. There are three national resorts, six protected areas, and nine national parks. Of course, the mountains are also a treasure of the country. The highest mountain in the world – Everest (8,848m) – is located between China and Nepal. If your child is small, he or she is unlikely to find ancient temples, stupas, and pagodas interesting. Sightseeing is more suitable for parents with older children. When it comes to nature, children are usually very interested in the outer world, so this family adventure can be one of the most exciting and mesmerizing. Such family bounding memories are precious for both children and their parents.

The Chitwan National Park is, perhaps, the most interesting destination for families. Tourists can stay in small villages located in the park or nearby. There are small cottage houses for rent that cost 2,000-2,500 rupees (approximately 20-50 U.S. dollars) per night for the entire cottage. The price includes food (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and a safari on elephants. To the service of guests, there are excursions to the jungles, canoeing on the river, safari on off-roaders, and acquaintance with the culture of the Tharu people. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Chitwan jungle is not scary, and it is not dangerous to visit it. The Narayani, Rapti, and Riu rivers make the area very attractive. The “jungle” is actually a leafy forest that is not much different from typical forests in Europe. This region is home to the Bengali tiger, grey hippo, and river fish-eating crocodile (it eats fish only). In Narayani, it is even possible to see freshwater dolphins. The park protects the normal life of dozens of different species of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians, as well as hundreds of bird species. The period from October to March is the best time to visit Chitwan because the temperature is very comfortable, around +25°C.

Nepal is a beautiful and friendly country, but foreign guests might need time to understand this. As a rule, Kathmandu is the first city that foreign tourists see after arrival. At a glance, this is a big, buzzing, and dusty place. There is a district that is targeted exclusively at tourists – Thamel. It has the highest concentration of cafes and restaurants, souvenir shops and other shops, and hotels of different categories. There are many historic landmarks in the city and its suburbs – Patan Durbar Square, the sacred Pashupatinath Hindu Temple, the Buddhist temples of Kopan, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, and even a zoo. There are usually many monkeys in temples.

The city of Pokhara is a gorgeous place located on Phewa Lake. This area is famous for its amazing views and boat rides in the lake. After the capital, Pokhara looks incredibly clean, and local air is fresh. The tourist area of Pokhara, Lakeside, also has hotels and restaurants of different categories, shops, and a small entertainment center. To explore the city and its neighborhoods or to get to museums, stupas, and caves, tourists can always rent a motorbike. No driving license is required. It is even allowed to use a motorbike to transport three people in Pokhara. In general, the driving license of another country is valid for 15 days. After that, drivers need a local license.

Roads are in poor condition in Nepal. The speed is rarely more than 25km/h. Long-distance rides are exhausting even for adults. There are no railroads in the country. That is why it is better to use airplanes to move between cities. If this is not possible, try to buy tickets to a tourist bus. The tourist bus is not necessarily a bus with a guide. This is simply a bus that transfers tourists between cities. As a rule, they make only a few stops. Of course, the tickets are more expensive but the journey time is shorter compared to regular intercity buses that make many stops.

There are different opinions on mountain adventures with children. Some think that trekking in the mountain areas is not suitable for children, and some people have another opinion. When making vacation plans, choose the decision that you think is right. There are family tourists with children aged 3-4 and older who choose to trek in the mountains but they pick easy routes and do not risk. The Nepalese like children and foreign children are rare guests so everyone will try to protect your kid. Such moments are priceless for both children and their parents. It doesn’t matter what activities you choose, it is always important to remember several basic rules in this southern country. Always wash your hands, vegetables, and fruit before eating them. Drink only bottled water and don’t forget about medical insurance that covers even rare occasions.