Best places to celebrate New Year in Nepal

Best Places to Celebrate New Year in Nepal

The best places to celebrate New Year in Nepal include Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan. With many cultural heritage sites, beautiful places, and stunning landscapes available, your celebration in Nepal can be enjoyable and memorable. No matter what you are looking for, from vibrant city celebrations to serene natural settings, Nepal has it all. Whether you are solo celebrating or have a group, all the places will give you a friendly environment where you can feel like a home. Merging all with the stunning natural beauty of Nepal, celebrating New Year here can be an unforgettable adventure.

Looking for the list of top places to ring in Nepal during the New Year? Here is the guided list of places where you can celebrate the beginning of the year.

1.Kathmandu

Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal. It is the bustling city, offering everything from ancient history to modern vibrancy. The place is generally considered as a mention pot of culture, religions, and tradition. Kathmandu is mainly popular for its historical significance, vibrant nightlife, and a lively neighborhood. With multiple of entertainment options available, the city can be the perfect spot for you to celebrate New Year with your loved ones. Moreover, there are multiple short hikes around Kathmandu which can be perfect day outing during new year. 

Thamel

The Thamel area is the major tourist hub, which is approximately 20 minute ride from Tribhuvan International Airport. You will witness a lively atmosphere in this place, and have numerous bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. Most of the clubs organize events during the new year. Also, the streets of Thamel come alive with music, dance, and fireworks for the celebration. With plenty of locations and events during the new year, Thamel can be perfect if you want a vibrant start to the year.

Thamel
Streets of Thamel

Durbar Square

If you are looking for the traditional way of celebration, then you can head towards the Durbar Square. During the new year, you will witness cultural festivals held. Surrounded by ancient temples and places, the square can be the best for you to experience the new year in quiet tranquility. Also, during the new year, these places host many cultural performances and traditional dances. Participating in these activities will provide you with a more in-depth understanding of Nepal’s cultural practices.

Garden of Dreams

Are you into nature and looking for a quiet place to celebrate New Year in Nepal? Visit Garden of Dreams. This place provides you with beautiful blooming flowers and natural greenery, where you can just relax. You can enjoy a sophisticated New Year’s Eve dinner in the garden’s elegant setting, surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and colonial architecture. Furthermore, you can also light some fireworks and celebrate this festival.

2. Pokhara

Another bustling and vibrant city after Kathmandu is the Pokhara. Located in the foothills of the Annapurna ranges, the city is popularly famous for its natural beauty. Exploring Pokhara, you can witness serene lakes, lush valleys, and panoramic mountain views. This has been the major spot for relaxation and adventure among both domestic and international travelers. Celebrating New Year here will provide you with unforgettable adventures while enjoying natural surroundings and lively events.

Lakeside

The major and popular spot of the Pokhara city is its Lakeside. The place has been a popular spot and is famous for its vibrant nightlife and stunning views of the lake. During New Year’s Eve, the Lakeside is filled with many people, hosting different events from live music to fireworks. Also, the food fest event is celebrated on Eve. Thus, if you are into food and want to try a variety of cuisines, you can definitely visit here. Also, the place hosts a number of bars and restaurants where you can make a short stop by.

Lakeside Pokhara aerial view

Sarangkot

Do you know why most of the people love to visit Sarangkot? Because of its breathtaking sunrise views. You can either directly visit Sarangkot for New Year’s Eve and celebrate it with nature, or you can even have a blast in the Pokhara city and head towards the place. The morning is the major highlight of the palace. All your tiredness of the night celebration goes off if you watch the sunrise on New Year Day from that viewpoint. You can celebrate the year just by relaxing or can do some adventurous activities like paragliding or bungee jumping.

3. Chitwan

Chitwan is a nearby location to both Pokhara and Kathmandu. It is in the lowland area of Terai region and is also the home to Chitwan National Park. If you are visiting Chitwan during the new year, then we recommend you to spend the day near the national park area. The bustling area offers you many restaurants and bars where you can enjoy the night. On the day, you can take a jungle safari and enjoy the opportunity to see animals like the Bengal tiger and one-horned rhinoceros. If you are looking for a nature-themed New Year celebration, then Chitwan can be a go to option for you.

Sauraha

Sauraha is the gateway to Chitwan National Park. Surrounded by nature, the place offers a unique New Year celebration moment for you. This is a small town located in Chitwan, but this bustling area holds many events and parties during to the New Year. Also, you can witness the traditional Tharu musical and dance performance in the eve. It’s a great place to enjoy the festive season while being close to wildlife and natural beauty.

Chitwan National Park

For a truly unique New Year experience, consider spending the night in Chitwan National Park. You can take part in a jungle safari, spot wildlife, and experience the natural beauty of the park. Celebrating New Year in the wilderness offers a peaceful and adventurous way to start the year. You will wake up to the sounds of nature and feel completely refreshed. It is the perfect escape if you are looking for something different and memorable.

Chitwan National Park
Rhinos at Chitwan National Park

4. Lumbini

Lumbini is a religious place known as the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautam, aka Lord Buddha. Tens of thousands of visitors from different parts of the globe visit the area. Strolling here, you will get plenty of opportunities to explore several historical temples, monasteries, shrines, and sacred gardens. With numerous things to do during New Year, you can either have a fun dinner at restaurants, go to a nightclub, or have a peaceful treat in the gardens of ancient historic temples.

Maya Devi Temple

To celebrate the New Year, you can visit the Maya Devi Temple. It is a popularly known spot where Gautam Buddha was born. Visiting this place during the evening can give you a great chance to immerse yourself in Buddhist culture. You can light candles and can even make a wish. In the morning, you can visit the temple and take part in its morning rituals. During this time, you will have a better chance to understand the culture of the Buddhist people.

Lumbini Gardens

This is perhaps the most ideal thing that you can do. Lumbini Gardens to celebrate the New Year not just connects you with nature but also provides you with an unforgettable experience. To call it a day, you can walk along the garden, get rid of stress and fatigue, and feel the spirituality that is characteristic of the place. It is such a good spot to make the New Year resolution and start the year without any form of restiveness.

5. Nagarkot

Nagarkot is the one most beautiful hill station near Kathmandu Valley, and it is famous for its beautiful view of the Himalayas. Upon reaching here, you will be amazed by the wide views of the surrounding countryside. Want to know why this place is popular? It’s because of the breathtaking sunrise and sunset views. New Year celebration here offers a peaceful and scenic experience. Thus making it perfect for those seeking a quieter celebration. You can also take a pleasant stroll around the hills that are in close or just lay back and admire the scenery.

Nagarkot
View from Nagarkot

Nagarkot View Tower

Nagarkot, located just outside Kathmandu, is known for its stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas. On New Year Eve, the Nagarkot View Tower offers a spectacular vantage point to watch the sunset and the first sunrise of the year. You can celebrate the arrival of the New Year with breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere. We recommend you to bring along some snacks and warm drinks to enjoy while you wait for the sunrise. It is a simple yet memorable way to welcome the New Year, surrounded by natural beauty.

6. Bandipur

Bandipur is one of the beautiful and preserved treasured hill stations. The place is popular for its tradition and art. Offering a mix of a historic touch of specific building designs with natural scenery, the place provides you with a peaceful environment. The local New Year celebrations in the town can be held in the Main Bazaar and open areas such as Tudikhel. The area is blessed with the opportunity to view traditional architecture. The beautiful surrounding areas and breathtaking views make this the right place for traditional Nepali celebration.

Main Bazaar

The Main Bazaar at Bandipur is a beautiful square and is very lively during the New Year festival. The streets are filled with traditional shops, cozy cafes, and restaurants, which give a special warm and festive mood. You can stroll through the Bazaar and eat the local cuisine or listen to live music. The cultural troupes enhance the delight. It can be said that the New Year celebration can be filled with joy in this beautiful hill station.

Tundikhel

Tundikhel is also one of the most crowded open fields of Bandipur, where people like to enjoy this occasion. With multiple events held for the New Year celebration, you can take part in entertainment activities such as dances and music of the local people. It is a good place to enjoy different cuisines while having an entertaining and adventurous day. With a huge crowd available, you can also interact with them and understand more about their friendly nature and culture.

7. Bhaktapur

Bhaktapur is a historic city located inside the Kathmandu Valley. If you visit Bhaktapur, you will be amazed by its well-preserved architecture and rich cultural heritage. If you are planning to celebrate a New Year here in Bhaktapur, then visiting Durbar Square and Taumadhi Square can be a better option. Celebrating in Bhaktapur allows you to immerse yourself in traditional Nepali culture and history. This city is the perfect place for you if you want to experience culture and festival at once.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

If you are looking for ways to celebrate the traditional New Year, then Bhaktapur Durbar Square can be a better choice, near Kathmandu. Listed as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the square is popularly known for its architecture and vibrant cultural events. On the New Year, you can celebrate by engaging yourself in traditional music and dances, and also you can visit the temples in the places and light candles. Surrounded by centuries of old buildings and local traditions, the square can give you an unforgettable way to start the New Year.

Taumadhi Square

Taumadhi Square, located near Bhaktapur Durbar Square, is another great spot for celebrating the New Year. Hosting many cultural events and gatherings, the place is a perfect place that helps in creating a lively and festive atmosphere. Visiting here, you will have a chance to experience local traditions and can even indulge yourself in watching the cultural performance. You will be pleased to celebrate here by being surrounded by the beautiful architecture in the Bhaktapur area. Blending local culture and the festive spirit, you can definitely take a shot visiting Taumadhi Square.

8. Dhulikhel

Dhulikhel is a small town country about 30 km east of the capital city of Nepal. It is very famous for the Himalayan views and Newari architecture. The place offers you with the quite environment with stunning views, meaning that spending New Year’s Day in the town will be very fruitful. You can spend some time walking in the area and overseeing the traditional buildings, and can have time in a calmer environment.

Dhulikhel Viewpoint

Dhulikhel has great views of the Himalayas and is always a great place to be during the New Year. You can use Dhulikhel Viewpoint to view the sunrise on the first day of the Year. The celebrations can be held in the mountainous regions, and you can marvel at the quiet nature of the place. The laid-back environment and amazing sceneries make it a delightful and serene environment to have some time for relaxation at the beginning of the year.

Namo Buddha

A good place that is quite ideal for a quiet New Year celebration is the Namo Buddha, a very important Buddhist shrine. The site will provide a serene background that will help the individual reflect and/or even draw closer to spirituality. You can go for a walk along the monastery and enjoy the magnificent views, as well as sense the peculiar spirit of the place. Spend the New Year holidays staying at the Namo Buddha for both natural serene and spirituality.

Namo buddha
Namo Buddha Monastery

9. Rara Lake

Nestled in the Mugu District, Rara Lake is the largest lake in the country and can be perfect for natural enthusiasts. Surrounded by the pristine landscapes of Rara National Park, this region is the most beautiful place, offering breathtaking natural beauty. New Year in Rara Lake is more adventurous and natural and, therefore, recommended for people who want to have a natural kind of celebration. Rara Lake viewpoint offers an amazing and unique experience of New Year Eve with a beautiful sunrise view over the Himalayas.

Tips for Celebrating New Year in Nepal

Weather Considerations

 

Nepal’s weather can vary significantly depending on where you are and the altitude. In the Kathmandu Valley and lower regions like Pokhara and Chitwan, the winter weather is usually mild. However, if you plan to visit higher places like Nagarkot and Bandipur, it can get quite cold. Make sure you dress warmly and pack layers to handle any temperature changes. It’s important to be prepared so you stay comfortable throughout your New Year’s celebrations.

Accommodation Recommendations

 

We recommend you to book your accommodation in advance, especially if you plan to celebrate in popular tourist spots. Many hotels and guesthouses offer special New Year’s Eve packages and events. It’s a good idea to secure your stay early, so you don’t miss out on a place that suits your needs. Make sure to choose a place that fits your preferences, whether you want something cozy or luxurious. Also, consider how close it is to the New Year’s celebrations you want to join so you can easily get to the events.

Cultural Etiquette

 

You should respect local customs and traditions during your New Year’s celebration. In Nepal, the New Year often holds religious and cultural significance. You should also be mindful of local practices and participate in the celebrations with respect for the local culture. We recommend you observe and follow the lead of the locals. Thus, you can enjoy the festivities while honoring their traditions. If you’re unsure about something, don’t hesitate to ask or observe how others are participating.

Conclusion

Overall, offering a diverse range of options available to celebrate the New Year, Nepal has something for everyone. From lively city festivals to serene settings available, you can definitely visit Nepal to celebrate this festival. Whether you choose to celebrate in the bustling streets of Kathmandu, the scenic beauty of Pokhara, or the tranquil surroundings of Rara Lake, you will definitely have a memorable and unique experience. Visiting Nepal, you can start Nepal full of adventure, as we assure you.

FAQs

What are the best places to celebrate New Year Eve in Kathmandu?

Thamel, Durbar Square, and the Garden of Dreams are popular spots for New Year Eve celebrations in Kathmandu. Thamel has many bars and restaurants offering special events. Durbar Square has a more cultural vibe, with traditional celebration and the Garden of Dreams offers a quieter setting if you are looking for a more relaxed evening.

Where can I experience a peaceful New Year’s celebration?

Consider Lumbini, Nagarkot, or Rara Lake for a peaceful New Year’s experience. Lumbini is peaceful and spiritually enriching, perfect if you want a reflective start to the year. Nagarkot offers stunning sunrise views and a calm atmosphere. Similarly, Rara Lake is remote and serene, ideal for a truly quiet and nature-filled celebration.

What should I wear for New Year’s celebrations in Nepal?

Dress appropriately for the weather, which can vary from mild to cold depending on the region and altitude. In lower areas like Kathmandu and Pokhara, a warm jacket and comfortable layers should be enough. For higher altitudes like Nagarkot, you will need warmer clothes, including gloves and a hat. It is always a good idea to check the weather forecast before packing.

Are there special New Year events in Pokhara?

Yes, Lakeside, Sarangkot, and Phewa Lake are popular spots in Pokhara where you can enjoy festive events and celebrations. Lakeside is lively, with music, food, and dancing along the waterfront. Sarangkot offers incredible views, making it a great place to watch the first sunrise of the year. At Phewa Lake, you can join boat rides and enjoy the festive atmosphere by the water.

How early should I book accommodation for New Year’s in Nepal?

It is best to book your accommodation well in advance to ensure availability and secure the best options for your celebration. Popular spots like Thamel, Lakeside, and Nagarkot fill up quickly. Booking early also gives you more choices, so you can find a place that suits your needs.

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