The Best Places to Travel in Nepal During Dashain Festival Holiday
Nepal, with its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, offers countless places worth exploring. With the most popular travel season approaching, October is the perfect time to plan a Dashain family trip. Are you ready to create lasting memories with your loved ones this Dashain?
In this blog, we’ll guide you through the best destinations to visit during the Dashain holidays.
Pokhara
Pokhara, famously known as the city of lakes, is surrounded by the majestic snow-capped peaks of Machapuchhre and the Annapurna Himalayan range. The city offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for both local and international travelers. The best time to visit Pokhara is during October, when the weather is pleasant and clear, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Whether you’re planning a family trip or a getaway with friends, Pokhara is ideal for relaxing by the serene Phewa Lake, enjoying boat rides, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views of the mountains. Sunrise and sunset from Sarangkot provide unforgettable panoramas that every visitor should experience.
Pokhara also offers a wide range of activities for all types of travelers. Adventure seekers can try paragliding at Sarangkot, explore the fascinating Mahendra Cave, or marvel at the powerful Davis Falls. For a more peaceful experience, visit Pokhara Shanti Stupa, Barahi Temple, and the surrounding monasteries. The city is also known for its lively markets, delicious local cuisine, and vibrant nightlife with karaoke and clubs. With so much to see and do, Pokhara stands out as one of the best destinations to enjoy during the Dashain holiday.
Muktinath
Muktinath, situated in the Mustang district of Nepal, is a sacred temple respected by both Hindus and Buddhists and is also a popular trekking destination. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple is well-known for its 108 holy water springs and peaceful spiritual atmosphere. Visiting Muktinath during the Dashain festival is especially enjoyable, as the weather is usually clear and pleasant at this time. Dashain is a perfect opportunity for families and pilgrims to explore this holy site and experience its spiritual charm.
Besides its religious importance, Muktinath is surrounded by stunning Himalayan landscapes, making it a paradise for photographers and nature lovers. The serene surroundings and their cultural and spiritual vibe make every visit unforgettable. Visitors can enjoy spectacular mountain views, explore nearby trails, and experience the peacefulness of Mustang while celebrating Dashain. It is a perfect destination for adventure and a spiritual retreat during the holiday.
Ghandruk
One of the most well-known overnight stops for trekkers in the Kaski district’s Annapurna region is Ghandruk. In fact, Ghandruk village is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Nepal. Ghandruk offers a breathtaking vista of the Annapurna Mountain ranges, including Machhapuchhre and Himchuli. So, for refreshment for your family, visit the amazing scenery, untouched culture, simple country life, regional cuisine, and hospitality. 
Ghandruk, Kaski, Nepal
Bandipur
Bandipur is another destination when thinking of travelling during Dashain holidays. Bandipur is a quiet and beautiful small mountain village with white, orange or red plaster and well-decorated balconies. On a bright day, you can enjoy the stunning view of the Himalayas. Usually, people who are returning from Pokhara stop by Bandipur, stay one or two days and then move to Kathmandu or other Eastern regions. You can also make a hike to nearby Ramikot and Siddha cave. Your family will surely cherish a gateway to Bandipur. 
Bandipur,Nepal
Lumbini
If you want to explore Nepal and its devotion to Buddhism, then Lumbini is your place. Birthplace to the Gautam Buddha-The light of Nepal gets you pious and peaceful feelings. You can see different monasteries made by different countries. This trip will certainly become an educational tour for your children too. 
Mayadevi Temple , Lumbini
Shree Antu, Ilam
If you are a fan of the sunrise, then Shree Antu danda, the first place where the sun arises in Nepal, is your go-to place. Situated in extreme East Nepal, Shree Antu is one mesmerizing place with the lush green of the forest around it and the amazing tea gardens. You can stay in a Lepcha community (homestay) on your visit to Antu Danida. You will enjoy beauty and serenity of Ilam on your way to Shree Antu. 
Patches of Trees in the Eastern Nepal, Shree Antu, Ilam
Janakpur
Janakpur is the heart of Terai, where you can see the rural Terai Nepal people with their own way of life. The most important attraction of Janakpur is Janaki Mandir. Made with grander architecture, the temple is devoted to Lord Ram and Janaki (Sita). You can also see Ganga Sagar and Dhanush Sagar and many other ponds. Janakpur may not be an instgrammable place in the extreme rural side, but the temple area is beautiful and gives you spiritual vibes. You can take your family here for the religious as well as refreshment tour. If you want to explore the vibrant Mithila culture then Janakpur is the destination for you. 
Sauraha
Sauraha is a small town located near Chitwan National Park. In order to reach Chitwan National Park, you have to travel to Sauraha first. Sauraha has many options for accommodation; you can choose from luxury hotels to homestays. But if you want your family to enjoy the flora and fauna while also experiencing luxury, then you can stay in luxury hotels in Sauraha. So don’t miss Sauraha when you are looking for Travel destinations in Nepal during the Dashain vacation. 
Spotted Deer, Chitwan National Park
Bardiya
Bardiya lies in the western region of Nepal. In fact, Bardiya exhibits the fact that Nepal has a lot more to offer than just the mountains alone. The isolated, remote location and the traditions of the Tharu people will amaze you. In fact, the best time to visit Bardiya is during Maghi- The major festival of Tharus. All in all, you can explore Tharu culture and wildlife in Bardiya. 
Maghi festival, Bardiya
Kalinchowk
Kalinchowk, located in the Dolakha district of Bagmati Province, Nepal, is a popular hill station and one of the nearest escapes from Kathmandu for travelers and families who want to play in the snow, weather permitting. It is about 150 kilometers from Kathmandu, making it an ideal spot for a short getaway. Visitors can enjoy fun snow activities in winter and take a thrilling cable car ride from Kuri Village to reach the Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple, all while soaking in the scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
The area is renowned for both its natural beauty and spiritual significance. The Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple, situated at 3,842 meters above sea level, attracts many pilgrims during Dashain and other festivals. From here, visitors can see the Langtang, Gaurishankar, and Jugal Himal ranges, along with breathtaking sunrise and sunset views. In addition, visitors can go hiking, trek around nearby hills, or try winter snow activities such as mini-skiing. One of the highlights of Kalinchowk is its spectacular mountain vistas and the beautiful Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple, making it a perfect destination for travelers, especially during the Dashain holiday.
Shuklaphanta National Park
Shuklaphanta National Park, located in Kanchanpur district of far-western Nepal, is a peaceful and less-crowded destination for wildlife and nature lovers. Spread across 305 sq. km, the park is famous for its wide open grasslands, sal forests, beautiful lakes, and the mighty Mahakali River. Once a royal hunting reserve, it is now home to the world’s largest herd of barahsinghe (Swamp deer), which can be seen in groups of thousands during winter. Visitors can explore the park through jeep safaris, elephant rides, and jungle walks, while enjoying the serene beauty of Rani Tal, Salgaudi Tal, and the surrounding wetlands. Cultural experiences such as Tharu dance, food, and village visits add a local touch, making the trip more memorable.
The park is also rich in wildlife diversity, offering a chance to spot endangered species like Royal Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinos, and Asian wild elephants. With more than 424 bird species, including the rare Bengal Florican, it is a paradise for birdwatchers. Reptiles, crocodiles, and playful monkeys are often seen near waterholes, while man-made ponds attract many animals, providing great opportunities for photography. Beyond wildlife, the scenic grasslands, ancient temples like Singphal, and views of the distant Himalayas on clear days make Shuklaphanta a hidden gem in Nepal’s Terai. The best time to visit is from October to April, when the weather is dry, cool, and perfect for outdoor adventures.
