Best Family-Friendly Things to do in Nepal

Nepal is a perfect destination for solo travelers and ones with families. We recommend traveling with your loved ones and enjoying a happy gate to this beautiful country. Here, your days won’t be dull, and you will have jam-packed schedules full of fun tourist activities.

The best Family-Friendly things to do in Nepal include an array of kid-friendly destinations and activities such as cultural and historical tours, wildlife safaris, adventurous sports, sightseeing, and more. The trip could be chaotic sometimes, but it will be worth every penny. So, let’s see what this South Asian nation has to offer to its large entourage of visitors with kids.

Also Read:

• Festivals In Nepal
• Top Things To Buy In Nepal
• Best Free Things To Do In Nepal

Spot Tigers at Central Zoo

• Location: Jawalakhel, Lalitpur
• Opening Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM

Nothing beats zoos when it comes to kid-friendly destinations. Children love visiting zoos and watching animals. Visitors should start their journey with a trip to Nepal’s only zoo, Central Zoo, aka Sadar Chidiyakhana, at Jawalakhel, Lalitpur.

This place is conveniently located in Kathmandu Valley, making it easier to travel. It houses many flora and fauna, including 15 endangered species and 969 animals of 105 species. Some of its major attractions are Bengal tigers, one-horned Rhinoceros, Himalayan Black Bear, red panda, ring-tailed lemur, and more.

Children can watch animals and birds to their content. There is also a kid’s section with swings, a merry-go-round, a funny temple, and Uranus to play with. Kids can enjoy paddle-boating with their parents, too. Overall, it will be a fun journey for visitors.

How to Get There?

Central Zoo is conveniently located at Jawalakhel. You can reach there by taxi or public transport. If you choose the latter option, take a bus to Jawalakhel or Patan. You can walk on foot from the bus stop to reach the zoo. Check Google Maps to navigate the ways.

Things to Note

• Visit Central Zoo at its opening hours from 10 AM – 5 PM
• Sadar Chidiyakhana charges Rs. 1000 ($7.53) for adults and Rs. 500 ($3.77) for children.
• Don’t visit on Saturdays and public holidays to avoid crowds.
• Filming and fishing require extra charges.
• Plastic Bags are forbidden on the premises.

Check These Handpicked Activities:

• Private Day Trip to Central Zoo at Jawalakhel
• Private Central Zoo Tour in Kathmandu

Visit the Kathmandu Main Sites with a Rickshaw Ride

Nepal’s capital city, Kathmandu, is the hub of tourist attractions. It houses seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, famous hiking spots, the finest restaurants and hotels, casinos, temples, and stupas. The list goes on; you only need time and determination to explore.

Among many Kathmandu attractions, visitors should take their kids on a cultural tour in three Durbar Squares. These magnificent buildings reflect Nepalese history and pay homage to Nepali arts and crafts. Furthermore, rickshaw rides could make strolling around Durbar Squares more fun. They don’t cost much and will take you safely to your destination. Rickshaws are perfect for visiting the Thamel and Asan areas, as you might get lost in their alleys.

Swayumbhunath, Boudhanath, and Pashupatinath are other family-friendly places in Nepal. They hold religious significance and will be an eye-opener for children regarding Nepali traditions and cultures. You can get there by public transport, taxis, or ride-sharing apps. Look at the following list of major tourist attractions, locations, and opening hours.

• Kathmandu Durbar Square: Kathmandu, 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM
• Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Bhaktapur, 9 AM – 6 PM
• Patan Durbar Square: Lalitpur, 10 AM – 10 PM
• Swayumbhunath: Bhaganpau, Open 24 Hours
• Pashupatinath: Pashupati Nath Road, Kathmandu, 4 AM – 9 PM
• Boudhanath: Kathmandu, Open 24 Hours
• Changu Narayan Temple: Changunarayan Municipality, Bhaktapur, 9 AM – 9 PM

Helpful Travel Tips

• Compare prices with Rickshaw drivers before picking your choice.
• The Rickshaw fares vary off and on season, with an average rate of Rs. 250-300 ($1.88-2.26) during peak tourist season.
• Be wary of scams happening around the Durbar Square Area.
• Avoid people who offer themselves as guides unless you need them.
• Politely refuse sellers who urge you to buy products if you don’t want them.
• Pay entrance fees at tourist offices only.

Check These Handpicked Activities:

• Kathmandu Rickshaw Tour Of Thamel And Durbar Square
• Rickshaw Ride Sightseeing at Kathmandu Durbar Square

Step Back in Time at the National Museum of Nepal

• Location: Chhauni, Swayambhu
• Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 4:30 AM (Wednesday-Sunday, 10:30 AM -2:30 AM (Monday)
• Entrance Fee: Rs. 150 ($1.13) per person

After ticking off Kathmandu’s main sites, keep the fascination alive with a visit to the National Museum of Nepal. This is the nation’s largest museum, situated at Chhauni. Furthermore, this place’s origin goes way back to the 1920s. The trip here will feel like stepping back to the early 19th century.

This museum houses many arms and ammunition that won’t be found anywhere else. It has ancient weapons, battle armor, swords, a Tibetan leather cannon, machine guns, etc. Moreover, the place also displays statues, old coins, paintings, art objects, and wood carvings. Your kids will certainly have a historical tour, roaming inside and outside the area.

How to Get There?

The National Museum is at the base of Swayambhu in Chhauni. Visitors must take a bus to Ratnapark and then ride a tempo to reach the museum’s premises. Or, they can hail a taxi from the airport or hotel to enjoy a comfortable drive. Also, check Google Maps for navigation.

Things to Avoid in the Museum

• Refrain from touching glass cases or paintings.
• View museum displays, maintaining a certain distance.
• Videoing is charged extra inside the premises.
• Smoking and alcoholic drinks are not allowed.
• Be mindful of your children’s safety.

You can also check out other famous Kathmandu Museums like Narayanhiti Palace Museum, Gurkha Memorial Museum, Patan Museum, Taragaon Next, and Museum Of Nepali Art.

Check These Handpicked Activities:

• Explore National Museum and Military Museum with a professional guide
• Narayanhiti Palace Museum Tour (Former Royal Palace of Nepal)

Ride the Columbus at Kathmandu Funpark

• Location: Pradarshani Marg, Bhrikuti Mandap
• Opening Hours: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
• Ticket Price: Rs. 600 ($4.52) for adults, Rs. 400 ($3.01) for kids

Although informative, museum tours can sometimes be boring. So, let’s amp up your kids’ mood by taking them to Kathmandu Funpark. As its name suggests, this place has everything a child could ask for in an amusement park, ranging from thrilling Columbus rides to spooky horror houses.

Enjoy a fun day riding the Ferris wheelchair, bumping your cars against others on car skating, and screaming your lungs out at Columbus. There is also a Break Dance game to test your endurance. Also, let’s not forget the Tower Game, which turned everything upside down.

There is a kid’s pool, tube slide, helicopters, Mickey Mouse, and bungee jump for children. You don’t have to worry about your little ones’ safety, as these games are designed for kids below 3 feet tall. Furthermore, try your luck on ring toss games. The winners can take home little dolls and souvenirs.

How to Reach There?

Kathmandu Funpark is at a convenient location at Bhrikuti Mandap. Visitors can take a bus directly to Bhadrakali Temple. From there, the park is within a 10-minute walking distance. You can ask passersby for directions or use Google Maps.

Two new parks have opened on either side of Bhadrakali. You can check them out, too.

Fun Things to do at the Park

• Enjoy boating with your children and families.
• Explore food stalls and pick your choice.
• Take photos with mascots.
• Splash water among each other at the Slide Pool.
• Enjoy a short train ride with your family.

Play with Water at Whoopee Land Amusement and Water Park

• Location: Chobhar, Kirtipur, Kathmandu
• Opening Hours: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
• Ticket Price: Rs. 750 ($5.65) for adults, Rs. 400 ($3.01) for kids
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook

If Kathmandu Funpark didn’t bring out your inner child, wait till you go to Whoopee Land Amusement and Water Park at Chobhar. This place is heaven for water sports lovers with its multiple water slides.

A perfect destination in sunny weather, this park has thrill rides, family rides, kiddie rides, and water sports. Kids can chill out in their mini pirate boats, soar on flying fish, and experience the thrill of the Kiddie Coaster ride. Additionally, there is a bouncing ball, King Carousel, and Coffee cup games for relaxation.

Families can ride together on Swingship, one of the park’s major attractions. However, this ride is not advised for people with faint hearts. It goes through many twists, bumps, and loops that will surge your adrenaline.

How to Reach Whoopee Land?

Whoopee Land is far from Kathmandu, so traveling there will take time. You can take a bus to Kalanki and change to another vehicle to reach Chobhar. As this is quite a hassle for some, you better opt for taxis or tourist buses. Also, check Google Maps to find the ways.

Fun Things to do at Amusement Water Park

• Try VR Rides and Zipline.
• See how long you can hold on Bull Rides.
• Enjoy Rock Climbing.
• See life-sized animatronic dinosaurs on Jurassic Safari.
• Compete with your opponent on Ladder Climbing.

Hike Up to Nagarkot Hill Station

Hiking is one of the most to-do things in Nepal. And what better place to enjoy this than at Nagarkot? This hill station offers panoramic sunrise and sunset views worth hours-long walks. Moreover, it is only a few kilometers from Kathmandu, allowing you to fit this activity into your schedule.

If your children are not used to walking long distances, opt for Nagarkot hiking. You will reach the station within a day and drive back to Kathmandu. Furthermore, it will be a bonding activity with your kids and a memorable event for them to look forward to.

Nagarkot Hill Station offers spectacular sunset and sunrise views. Visitors can also take short nature walks around the village in the daytime. Additionally, they can experience local culture and lifestyle by interacting with residents.

How to Get There?

Nagarkot has several hiking routes and trekking trails. For instance, travelers can go for a 12 km hike from the Nagarkot Panoramic Hiking Trail. This is perfect for people with kids, as it’s only a 3-4 hour walk.

Another way to get to the hill station is by following the Nagarkot 360 View Tower Walk route. It’s a 3-hour hike with panoramic views of Everest and five other Nepali mountains.

Best Things to do in Nagarkot

• Enjoy long trekking with families.
• Go on picnics with your kids.
• Take your children on a food tour and try local delicacies.
• Take a risk; try paragliding.
• Enjoy fine dining at traditional restaurants.

To explore more activities in Nagarkot, head over here.

Enjoy Jungle Safari at Chitwan National Park

• Location: Chitwan, Nepal
• Opening Hours: 7 AM – 6 PM
• Entry Fee: Rs. 2,000 ($15.08) for foreigners

Another kid-friendly destination, Chitwan National Park, has everything and more regarding jungle safari. The park is a sanctuary for 68 mammal species, 126 fish species, 544 bird species, and 56 herpetofauna species. Children will be mesmerized by the diverse flora and fauna available.

Another thing to do in Chitwan is bird watching. Visitors will see many unique species of birds in this park that are not found elsewhere. Also, equip your children with binoculars to help them see far.

Likewise, elephant riding is a sought-after tourist activity in this park. It will be easier to cruise through the forests on elephants rather than walking. Furthermore, you can interact with other visitors at the same time. Many people opt for elephant rides on their jungle safari.

How to Get There?

Chitwan National Park is in South Central Nepal and about 60 miles away from Kathmandu. As it is pretty close, the popular transportation medium is the bus. You can book tickets for overnight or day buses or ride on tourist buses.

Similarly, visitors can fly to Chitwan from Kathmandu. Flight is around twenty minutes long from Tribhuvan Airport to Bharatpur Airport. After landing, travelers can follow Google Maps to find the way to the park.

Best Things to do in Chitwan National Park

• Experience your first elephant bathing.
• Canoe through the serene Rapti River.
• Learn a thing or two about the Tharu community.
• Go on nature walks with your kids.
• Enjoy Wildlife Photography.

Check These Handpicked Activities:

• Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour
• Chitwan National Park Jungle Safari Tour Package from Kathmandu

Breathe In Fresh Air while Boating on Phewa Lake

• Location: Phewa Lake, Pokhara
• Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
• Entry Fee: Free; Boating Costs Rs. 450-500 ($3.40-3.77)

A trip to Pokhara is the best for a large group of travelers. The place has many tourist activities that cater to people of all ages. There is something for everyone, including kids, in this metropolitan city.

First things first, visitors must go boating on Phewa Lake. Nothing will feel better than rowing a boat with your family while enjoying a scenic atmosphere. You will see gorgeous mountain views, including that of Mount Annapurna.

Travelers can use their boat to get to Bindhyabasini Temple. This Hindu shrine houses Goddess Durga, also considered Pokhara’s guardian deity. Moreover, it is crowded on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

How to Get There?

Pokhara is a popular tourist destination in Nepal. Hence, you won’t have any issues regarding transportation. You can travel via public transport, plane, and tourist bus. Among the cheapest is public buses that take around 6 to 7 hours.

The fastest method of traveling is flight, which only takes 25 minutes. But, it is reasonably expensive compared to bus fare. Finally, travel via tourist bus if your budget is somewhere in between. They are more convenient than public transport and not too costly.

Fun Things to do in Pokhara

• Besides boating, visitors can try adventurous sports like Zipline, Paragliding, and Bungee Jumping.
• Watch the golden sunrise from Sarangkot.
• Trek to Annapurna Base Camp.
• Enjoy hiking with family.
• Visit Mahendra Cave, David’s Fall, and Pokhara Butterfly Garden.

To learn more, read our article, Best Things To Do In Pokhara.

Take Pictures at Everest Base Camp

• Location: Khumjung, Nepal, Google Map
• Average Trekking Time: 12 – 14 Days
• Trekking Cost Range: $800 – $5,000

Nepal is the land of the Himalayas; we take great pride in this fact. Our country has the world’s tallest mountain, Mt. Everest, and eight out of fourteen 8000-meter mountains. Moreover, many people travel thousands of miles to see them, and some even go on Everest climbing expeditions.

While climbing Mount Everest is impossible for everyone, you can watch them closely at the Everest Base Camp. It is a famous trekking route that welcomes thousands of visitors annually. Additionally, this trekking could be a perfect tourist activity for your family. It is affordable cost-wise, too.

You can take it slow and climb at your speed. Visitors are advised to stay hydrated to minimize altitude sickness. Overall, it will be a fun and adventurous trek for you and your family. So, what are you waiting for; come and roam around the camps, take pictures, and make memories.

How to Trek to Everest Base Camp?

Although Everest Base Camp is beginner-friendly, it is by no means easy. You must be mentally prepared to climb steep hills, face unpredictable weather, and expect basic accommodation. You might have to walk for days, but do it at your own pace.

This Base Camp is 200-300 km away from the capital. So, you must first take a domestic flight to Lukla airport. From there, you will walk on foot to cover the 65 km trekking distance to the camp.

On average, the trek to Everest Base Camp takes nearly 12 to 14 days. However, take as much time as you need; this is not a competition. Lastly, it’s best to go on treks during September-October and March-May.

Things to Prepare Before Trek

• Get a local guide. They can help you navigate ways and arrive safely at your destination.
• Get travel insurance, as treks can be risky.
• Be prepared for medical emergencies such as altitude sickness.
• Get a Sagarmatha National Park Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit before trekking.

Check These Handpicked Activities:

• Everest Base Camp Trek – 14 Days
• Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return from Gorakshep to Lukla

Maintain Your Balance on Trishuli Rafting

• Location: Google Map
• Time To Reach: 3 Hour Drive
• Average Trip Cost: $55 per person

So far, we have listed mild tourist activities to our readers. Let’s amp up your travel with adrenalin-jerking rafting in the Trishuli River. The beginner-friendly activity takes visitors through thrilling, rapid water flow. What’s more, river currents might leave you screaming.

Don’t worry; Trishuli rafting is not always chaotic. You will enjoy gorgeous scenic views of landscapes, lush forests, gorges, and terraced rice farms. Moreover, travelers will be fully absorbed in the activity from beginning to end. The ride might even feel short when it’s finally over.

This rafting is safe as long as you follow the rafting guidelines. Visitors will have a briefing regarding dos and don’ts before the journey. They will be strapped with life jackets and helmets and ride with a guide.

How to Get There?

It is easy to travel from Kathmandu to the Trishuli River. You can choose taxis or buses because it’s only a 3-hour drive. You can start your journey early in the morning from KTM. Furthermore, after a day full of rafting activity, you can drive back to your hotel or book a room in a nearby lodge.

Helpful Travel Tips

• The best seasons for Trishuli Rafting are September-December and February-June
• Avoid monsoon seasons between July and August, as water volume is too high for rafting.
• Kids below the age of 10 are not suitable for rafting.
• Rafting is physically demanding. You need to have a good physique.
• You don’t have to be experienced to try rafting.
• Finally, keep calm and enjoy the ride.

Check These Handpicked Activities:

• Trishuli River Rafting Day Trip from Kathmandu with Private Car
• Trishuli River Rafting: A Thrilling Day Trip from Kathmandu

Enjoy Family Picnic at Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

• Location: Google Map
• Opening Hours: 7 AM – 5 PM
• Social Media: Official Website

After the thrilling rafting ride, it’s time to relax with a family picnic. Nepal has many picnic spots, but if you enjoy dining in an open nature, head to Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. Thick forests and lush greeneries surround it.

This forest reserve is a perfect destination for a peaceful family retreat. Visitors can hike up to the top and have lunch. Furthermore, the park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. You will be mesmerized by these colorful birdies throughout your stay.

Shivapuri hilltop also faces Mount Manaslu, Langtang Lirung, and Ganesh Himal. Visitors can enjoy their picnics with gorgeous panoramic mountain views. After your meal, you can visit the Buddhist stupa right around the corner.

How to Get There?

The national park is 12 km away on the north side of Kathmandu. You can reach there via taxis or public transport. For the latter, take a bus to Budhanilkantha. You can walk thirty minutes or take another bus to reach the gate.

SAARC citizens must pay Rs. 600, whereas other foreigners are charged Rs. 1000 for entry. Afterward, it’s a hike to the top, then a family picnic.

Fun Things to do at Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

• Bird-watching with families.
• Take long/short nature walks with your kids.
• Spot a monkey or two during your hike.
• Take family pictures at the hilltop.

Check These Handpicked Activities:

• Shivapuri National Park Day Hiking – Budanilkantha, Nagi Gumba, Sundarijal Hike
• Shivapuri Full Day Guided Trek from Kathmandu

Treat Yourself to a Delicious Meal at Traditional Establishments

No trip is complete without food. Nepalese culinary arts blend traditional, Indian, and Tibetan cuisines. There is a dish for every celebration and festival. For instance, Sel Rotis are primarily eaten during Tihar and Kwati in Janai Purnima.

Nepalese eat Dal Bhat daily, a main course in most restaurants. Visitors can take their families to authentic Nepali Thali at Thamel side eateries. Likewise, Newari cuisine is another traditional dish that caters to people of all ages. You can find Newari establishments in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Lalitpur.

Popular Traditional Restaurants in Kathmandu

• The Chimney Restaurant: Durbar Marg; 12 PM – 10:30 PM
• Nepali Chulo: Lazimpat; 10 AM – 10 PM
• Jimbu Thakali: Min Bhawan, New Baneshwor; 10:30 AM – 9:30 PM
• Krishnarpan Nepali Restaurant: Battisputali; 6 PM – 11 PM
• Toran Restaurant: Battisputali; Until 11 PM
• Spize: Bhagabati Marg; 8 AM – 9 PM
• Yangling Tibetan Restaurant: Kaldhara Marg; 12 PM – 9 PM
• Bhojan Griha: Dillibazar; 10 AM – 10 PM
• Malta Newari Restaurant: Lal Durbar, Durbarmarg; Until 9:30 PM
• Gokarna House Restaurant: Thamel & Jhamsikhel; 11 AM – 10 PM

To learn more about famous Kathmandu restaurants, head over here.

Not just that, Kathmandu streets are full of vendors selling street food. They are visually appetizing and mouthwateringly delicious. You can find street food recommendations in this article.

Check These Handpicked Food Tour Activities:

• Food Tasting Tour in Nepal
• Cooking Tour in Kathmandu – Learn as Local with Nepalese Family
• Half day cooking class in Thamel Kathmandu

Overall, with its wide range of tourist activities suitable for people of all ages, Nepal is a perfect destination for families. Visitors should visit this country in September-November, as trekking and hiking are in full bloom. Another best time to visit is from March to May in the spring.

As kids are prone to diseases and infections, take extra precautions to protect your children’s health in city areas like Kathmandu. Also, carry a basic first-aid kit when traveling to remote areas. And that’s all; now, you are ready for a family tour to Nepal.