Nothing in this world is free, or is it? Especially regarding travel, we have this misconception that it is costly and will drain one’s bank account. Although traveling requires money, people can cut expenses by drawing up a meticulous plan. This also includes searching for free things to do in that country.
Nepal is often included among budget-friendly South Asian countries. Visitors can find cheaper accommodation, trekking, and tour activities. Moreover, many tourist attractions don’t require entry fees. So, join us on this journey to explore the best free things to do in Nepal.
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Start Your Day with a Morning Run
We are kicking off our list with a morning run. I know you must be thinking why jogging will be among the best free things to do in Nepal. It is a rigorous activity that will not require money anyway.
Your assumption is correct. However, a morning run is about exercising and exploring the areas often overlooked during the day. Moreover, you can enjoy jogging in almost every street in and around Kathmandu. They are safe and full of joggers like you.
For instance, visitors can jog around Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, and Bhrikuti Mandap. Many instructors give free Zumba and yoga lessons in the mornings at Tudhikhel and Bhrikuti Park. You can join the locals and groove to the beats.
Furthermore, tourists will enjoy a peaceful environment in the early mornings, which is impossible during the daytime or at night in areas like Thamel and Asan. You will see locals beginning their days and may learn new things about their lifestyles. All in all, it will be a perfect start to your day.
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Wander Around Thamel Streets
Thamel is the ultimate tourist destination with everything a visitor might want. From high-rated casinos and hotels to budget-friendly shopping centers, this place is at tourists’ disposal 24/7.
Contrary to popular belief, Thamel is not always expensive; you can explore many free things to do here. For example, sightseeing that costs no money at all. Tourists can stroll Thamel’s narrow alleyways and look around residents’ houses, shops, etc.
Thamel Streets will take visitors back to the past with its old and traditional architectural buildings. These properties have been passed down from generation to generation. Many Newari residents still live in their old homes around this city.
Visitors can also enjoy window shopping during their stroll around Thamel. Shops usually display their best items for customers. You don’t have to buy them but looking around won’t cost.
Check These Handpicked Activities:
- Kathmandu Rickshaw Tour Of Thamel And Durbar Square
- 3-Hour Thamel Sightseeing Tour by Rickshaw in Kathmandu
- Garden of Dreams Tour and Thamel Shopping
Freak Street: See What the Fuss is All About
Kathmandu is an ancient city full of historical and cultural monuments. However, if you truly want to learn about the city’s past, visit Freak Street, aka, Jhochhen Tole. It was a hub for Hippies in the 1960s and 70s.
Initially, cannabis selling wasn’t illegal in Nepal. Many sellers ran hashish shops in Jhochhen Tole, making it a paradise for Hippies. Many came to this area just to buy cannabis, marijuana, and weed. It continued until the Nepali Government deported Hippies to India in the 70s.
Although the Hippie craze has died, Freak Street remains a popular tourist destination. Visitors can buy hemp products like hemp bags, hats, slippers, belts, and accessories. A walk around Jhochhen Tole during the daytime will be a fruitful expedition that costs no amount.
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Participate in Local Traditions and Festivals
Did you know Nepalese people celebrate over 50 festivals annually? That is without including smaller festivities. Kathmandu Valley alone sees many of these celebrations and is in a festive atmosphere all year.
Visitors will stumble upon jatras if they visit during April – May and August – October. Bhaktapur celebrates Bisket Jatra, and Lalitpur celebrates Red Macchhendranath Jatra between April and May. Likewise, Kathmandu observes the biggest Newari festival, Indra Jatra, in September.
Anyone can partake in festivity in these street festivals. Tourists can observe and participate in Newari local traditions at Indra Chowk, Bhaktapur, and Patan. Enjoy the festivities like locals, get involved in music and dance, and have fun. Nothing beats this as the best free thing to do in Nepal. Read more in our post, Festivals in Nepal.
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Go On a Solo Hike at Nagarkot
Nepal is a heaven for trekkers and hikers worldwide, with its challenging terrains, mountainous routes, and isolated regions. Unfortunately, trekking is expensive and, by all means, not free. Nonetheless, short hike routes either don’t require money or are available at cheaper prices.
Take, for example, Nagarkot hiking, which can be done without paying money. Visitors can reach the hill station through Sundarijal Chisapani or Sankhu. You must search for the shortest hiking trail and go on a solo hike.
If you embark on solo hiking, you will save the cost of guides. You don’t have to buy hiking packages that cost hundreds of dollars. Furthermore, visitors can enjoy the solitude that comes with a solo hike. And let’s not forget the impressive sunset and sunrise views from the hill station.
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Pick Your Choice at Farmers Market
Farmers markets have become a way for promoting local goods and products among foreigners. Nepali sellers make a lot of profit from these markets. Likewise, tourists can buy and taste homemade cooking and food and learn about the Nepali food culture.
Boudha Farmers Market at Utpala Cafe is a famous location open from 8 AM to 5 PM on Saturdays. Visitors don’t have to pay to enter and can freely stroll around. They can have their pick if they like any product. However, I must warn you that the farmers’ markets are often costly.
Le Sherpa Farmers Market is another popular tourist spot that opens from 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM on Saturdays. Shopkeepers bring the freshest organic products to sell. They look visually appetizing and are tasty and healthy.
Check famous Kathmandu Farmers Markets, their opening hours and days:
- Le Sherpa Farmers Market: 7:30 AM – 12:30 PM, Saturdays
- Boudha Farmers Market at Utpala Cafe: 8 AM – 5 PM, Saturdays
- Labim Bazaar: 10 AM – 4 PM, Saturdays
- The Yellow House Farmers Market: 9 AM – 1 PM, Saturdays
- Bhanimandal Market: 3 PM – 7 PM, Tuesdays
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Explore Free Tourist Attractions
Often, we focus on famous tourist destinations recommended by travel agencies or guides. These places are jam-packed with visitors and expensive. But, we overlook free locations that are equally beautiful and have a history to tell. Nepal houses many hidden gems that exemplify the adage that the best things in life are free.
Check Out the Beautiful Kopan Monastery
When discussing Buddhist shrines, the first that comes to mind is the legendary Swayambhunath. The Monkey Temple is the holy place for Buddhists worldwide. Besides this iconic shrine, visitors can visit the magnificent Kopan Monastery near Boudhanath.
This holy place houses 360 monks, teachers, Lamas, and workers. The residents are primarily between 7 to 60 years old. Furthermore, travelers can sign up for courses in the monastery. They can enjoy the spiritual atmosphere if their trip is only for a day.
Visitors can do many things at Kopan Monastery. For instance, they can attend morning prayers, browse books in the library, shop at the cyber cafe, and watch monks at debates and prayers. Above all, they will experience relaxation away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Moreover, visitors don’t have to pay to enter this Tibetan Buddhist Monastery. However, it will charge a certain amount for accommodation and meals. The price varies based on single, double, deluxe, and suite rooms.
- Location: Budhanilkantha, Kathmandu
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook
Explore the Cultural Heritage of Budhanilkantha Temple
When you visit Kopan Monastery, you might as well explore Budhanilkantha Temple, just around the corner. This Hindu temple houses Lord Vishnu’s sleeping stone statue. It is a beautiful piece of art, reflecting ancient Nepali stonework.
The reclining Vishnu statue and the sacred pond surrounding it are the major attractions of this place. Legend says the pond’s water comes from an underground stream or Gosainkunda Lake. Additionally, it symbolizes spirituality and purity.
On the other hand, Lord Vishnu’s reclining pose represents his deep sleep. Locals believe he will awake from his sleep during times of cosmic crisis. Furthermore, Vishnu is one of the Trimurti who oversees the preservation and safeguarding of the universe. He has appeared on the Earth in multiple avatars to help people.
Buddhanilkantha Temple requires no entrance fee and is open throughout the year. Visitors must take a private vehicle or public transport to reach the place. It will be a spiritual journey that allows travelers to understand the shrine’s history, observe devotees’ faith, and appreciate Nepali art skills.
- Location: Budhanilkantha, Nepal
- Opening Hours: 4 AM – 7:30 PM
- Major Celebrations: Ram Navami, Hari Sayani Ekadashi, Haribodhini Ekadashi
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- Visit Budhanilkantha Temple – The House of the Sleeping Lord Vishnu
- Pay a visit to Budhanilkantha Temple in a way local people do
- Private Half Day Budhanilkantha Tour
Roam Outside Durbar Square
The iconic Durbar Square is a feast for the eyes with its large courtyards, beautiful temples, ancient buildings, and impressive architectural designs. The place’s history traces back to the Malla Kings, who ruled Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan before King Prithvi Narayan Shah unified them into one nation.
Kathmandu Durbar Square’s entry fee for foreigners is Rs. 1,000 ($7.51). But, visitors don’t have to pay to explore outside the palace’s gated area. And, trust me, there are plenty of things to look at around the Durbar.
For instance, the gigantic Bhairav statue is on the way to Durbar Square. Anyone can take its picture and worship the deity. Likewise, you can wander around Kumari Chowk freely. It houses Nepal’s living goddess, Kumari. Visitors may even catch a glimpse of her from the outside.
You can enjoy sightseeing around Kathmandu Durbar Square. There are many vendors and shops to buy souvenirs from. Or, you can just relax and sit in available spaces, watching people as they go on with their lives.
- Location: Kathmandu, Nepal
- Opening Hours: Roam around Durbar Square 24 hours a day
- Things To Do: Sightseeing, Taking Pictures, Shopping
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- Kathmandu Durbar Square Tour
- Kathmandu Evening Tour by Rickshaw, Including Durbar Square Visit
- Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swayambhunath Walking Tour
Enjoy a Romantic Time at Siddha Pokhari
If your travel destination is Bhaktapur, check out Siddha Pokhari, aka, Indra Daha at Dudhpati. You can easily reach it on foot or take a bus to Dudhpati. Furthermore, this place is one of the oldest and biggest ponds in the city. Its origin traces back to Malla King Indrajit.
Siddha Pokhari holds a religious significance among the Newari residents. They go to worship and celebrate Tihar and Dugu Puja. Aside from that, the pond is full of people during Indra Jatra in September. The locals worship their lineage god there.
Aside from that, Bhaktapur’s pond is gaining prominence as a dating spot. Many youngsters take their partners to enjoy a peaceful and scenic environment. While Bhaktapur Durbar Square requires an entry fee, Siddha Pokhari is free. So, visitors can take their significant other on a date.
The couples can just sit around the pond or enjoy feeding fish. You will find fish food for Rs. 50 to Rs. 100 ($0.38 – $0.75). Additionally, visitors can enjoy boating that costs Rs. 100 ($0.75).
- Location: Dudhpati, Bhaktapur, Google Map
- Opening Hours: Closes At 7 PM
- Things To Do: Chilling, Boating, Fish Feeding
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Visit Suryabinayak Ganesh Temple and Doleshwor Mahadev
Just like Kathmandu, Bhaktapur is a land of temples. It houses many Hindu shrines, including Suryabinayak Ganesh Temple and Doleshwor Mahadev. These temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva and his eldest son, Ganesh.
Suryabinayak Temple is the elder deity among Ashok Binayak, Rakta Binayak, and Jal Binayak. It is situated at half an hour’s distance from Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Visitors must take a bus to Suryabinayak Chowk and walk upwards for fifteen to twenty minutes to reach the temple. After trudging through some stairs, they will arrive at the shrine.
Legend says the sun’s first ray falls upon this temple; hence, the name Suryabinayak (Sun + Ganesh). This place is crowded on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Visitors don’t have to pay an entry fee. However, you can buy flowers and incense from vendors.
On the other hand, Doleshwor Mahadev is a 30-45-minute journey from Suryabinayak Temple. You can ask locals for directions or hire private vehicles, as public buses are unavailable. Or, you can hitchhike a ride, as motorcycles often go that way.
This Hindu shrine is dedicated to the Lord Shiva. It houses a stone statue, which is Shiva’s head. Legend says the Pandavas established Doleshwor Mahadev and four other temples to honor the lord. Many Indian Hindus visit this shrine to pay their respects.
Doleshwor temple’s premises houses huge Trishul, Nandi’s Statue, Shiva Linga, Dhunge Dhara, space for organizing Bhajans, etc. It is being renovated at the present. Nonetheless, anyone can visit the shrine.
- Location: Suryabinayak, Bhaktapur, Google Map
- Opening Hours: 5 AM – 12 PM
- Major Celebrations: Ganesh Chaturthi, Teej, Shrawan Mela, Shivaratri
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- Pashupatinath and Doleshwor Mahadev Temple Darshan Tour From Kathmandu
Enjoy the Peaceful Environment of Namo Buddha Monastery
Visit Namo Buddha, a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site far from the valley. It is situated in the Kavre District and is 40 km away from Kathmandu. You can take a public bus from Ratnapark to Banepa and another to the monastery. Or you can hire a taxi to get there.
This Buddhist shrine is a beautiful place with a peaceful environment. You will instantly feel the spiritual atmosphere right after setting foot on the premises. Furthermore, the monastery is clean and well-maintained. It is a perfect spot for enjoying meditation and relaxation.
Legends say Lord Buddha once reincarnated as a prince who visited the place where the present Namo Buddha exists. He saw a mother tigress and her five cubs dying of hunger there. Feeling pity, he sacrificed his life to feed the mama tiger.
Namo Buddha is a famous destination that requires no entry fee. You can stroll around, observe the stupa, and take photos. Moreover, you can hike down to Panauti, only eight kilometers away. Overall, a trip to the stupa will not be in vain.
- Location: Simalchaur Syampati, Kavre
- Major Celebrations: Buddha Jayanti, Kartik Purnima
- Things To Do: Sightseeing, Taking Photos, Hiking/Trekking
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- Namobuddha Monastery Hiking Day Trip from Kathmandu
- Namo Buddha and Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery Half-Day Tour
- Namo Buddha Monastery & Kailashnath Mahadev Statue – Day Tour
Check Out Popular Hindu Shrines in Kathmandu Valley
Kathmandu Valley houses more temples than one can imagine. Just when you think you have visited all the shrines, you will learn about more holy places to visit. Moreover, these sites are primarily devoted to Hindu deities and are famous among devotees. Aside from the aforementioned Hindu temples, we have listed pilgrimage sites that are free of cost.
- Seto Machindranath Temple: Located Between Thamel and Durbar Square
- Ashok Binayak Temple: Located Near Kasthamandap
- Koteshwor Mahadevsthan: Located at Koteshwor, Kathmandu
- Dakshinkali Temple: Located at Pharping, Kathmandu
- Sali Nadi Temple: Located at Sankhu
- Bajrayogini Temple: Located at Sakwa, Kathmandu
- Akash Bhairav Temple: Located at Indrachowk
- Guhyeshwari Temple: Located 1 Km East Of Pashupatinath
- Bagh Bhairab Temple: Located at Kirtipur
- Annapurna Temple: Located at Asan
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- Private Tour of Kirtipur, Chobhar, and Dakchhinkali Temple
- Sankhu Nagarkot Hiking, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square Visit
- Pharping Monastery & Asura Cave Meditation Tour in Kathmandu
In this article on free tourist activities, we explored hidden tourist attractions and choices that cost no dime. Nepal is already an affordable country, but you can save more with these free activities. All you need are interest and determination to travel. You can discover many more new things in this beautiful South Asian nation.
So, pack your sense of adventure and curiosity and explore all the priceless experiences awaiting every turn in Nepal.
