Nepal's best Himalayan views (without the hike)
When it comes to trekking in Nepal, the intrepid routes often steal the spotlight, but that level of adventure isn’t everyone’s cup of su cha (butter tea). For those who like their alpine experience a little gentler, there are plenty of spots where you can soak up the serene, brooding presence of the Himalayas without breaking a sweat.
Imbibe the panoramic mountain horizons while sipping coffee at a lakeside café in Pokhara, stay at a luxury lodge with the Annapurna range as your constant backdrop, and (for the early risers) catch the sunrise illuminating Everest’s white peaks in shades of fiery red, warming amber and deep orange. If you’re after some adrenaline thrills, but are keen to avoid those hiking blisters, you can even swoop on a tandem paraglide over lush valleys for uninterrupted views of the peaks of Machapuchare and Dhaulagiri.
Whatever you fancy, our Nepal specialists can suggest many ways to enjoy peaceful connections with Nepal’s natural wonders that leave out the more intrepid hiking.
Explore lesser-known corners of Nepal which look out over Himalayan horizons.
Follow gentle paths through Nepal’s lush valleys, following the outline of the Himalayan foothills.
Combine rest, relaxation and natural beauty with a stay at a resort with panoramic views of the mountains.
The best mountain views in Nepal
Pokhara – lake and mountain bliss
The relaxed lakeside city of Pokhara, northwest of the capital, is renowned for its stunning views of the Annapurna range, whose mighty peaks are mirrored in the tranquil Phewa Lake. See them from the water by boat, from the land in a relaxing café, or even from the skies on a tandem paraglide from the nearby viewpoint of Sarangkot.
Nagarkot – spectacular sunrise over Everest
Closer to the capital, just an hour’s drive east, Nagarkot is justly famous for its sweeping views of the Himalayas. On clear mornings, you will watch Mount Everest glowing as the sun spreads its warmth over its cold peaks. Set your alarm – this is not to be missed.
Bandipur – history, heritage and Himalayas
Perched on a hilltop roughly midway between Kathmandu and Pokhara, Bandipur is a place where rich history and mountain views converge. In this off-the-beaten-path destination, you can explore well-preserved, ancient Newari architecture with the constant presence of the Himalayas adding a timeless beauty. Amble through the cobbled streets, soak up the culture, and enjoy a serene, mountain-framed retreat.
Rooms with a view – our top tips for scenic hideaways
Dwarika’s Resort - retreat above the clouds
Combining simple wellness principles with one of the most visually extraordinary locations in Nepal, Dwarika’s Resort is pretty hard to beat for rest, relaxation and mountain peak panoramas. Perched high on a Dhulikhel hillside, at certain times of day, when the mists descend into the valley, it feels like the whole resort is floating above the clouds.
Words can’t do justice to the sensation of looking out from the terrace towards the gleaming Himalayan horizon as the sun begins to set. Bliss.
Tiger Mountain Lodge – a secluded lodge high in the hills
For those who want something a bit easier to reach that still offers tranquillity and towering peaks, the Tiger Mountain Lodge is just outside Pokhara and has stunning views over the Himalayan peaks with more than a splash of pampering thrown in.
Clusters of individual cottages are arranged between trees with interiors graced by wide double doors leading to private terraces with views over the ranges. Soak up the sights, swim in the pool, relax with a massage but most of all, just be.
Shinta Mani Mustang - style and scenic splendour
Nestled above the town of Jomsom in northern Nepal, in the ancient kingdom of Mustang which was closed to visitors for centuries, the Shinta Mani Mustang brings the brand’s beautifully streamlined and sympathetically-designed chic to the foothills of the Himalayas.
Anyone familiar with the Shinta Mani concept will know the high standards to expect: understated exteriors that blend in seamlessly with the surroundings, opening up to exquisitely-designed interiors that showcase the Himalayan views beyond the glass. City crowds dissolve and the mountains appear.
