Himalayas are the highlight of Nepal. Yearly millions of tourist pay visit to Nepal to conquer and witness the enthralling beauty of smiling snow-capped mountains. Trekking and mountain climbing are the dominance of tourism in Nepal. Home to eight of the tallest mountain of the world (all above 8,000 meters) along with the tallest Everest (8,848 meters) Nepal is in the list of hardcore adventure lovers. However, apart from the glorious mountains, there are many things to discover in Nepal. There are many famous and ancient heritages and monuments which will remain in your heart for forever. The heartwarming culture and tradition and the distinctive life of remote areas will leave you speechless. However, there are some lesser known places in Nepal which are equally worth visiting. You will discover a different part of Nepal; its quaint beauty and the soothing tranquility. So, here are some lesser known places you should visit in Nepal.

Siddha Gufa, Bandipur

As the mountains and the hills are the primary features of Nepal, there are many caves and crevasses which are yet to be discovered. Siddha Gufa is located in a charming little village of Bandipur, Tanahu district. The cave is 50 meters high ceiling and 437 meters deep and has a capacity to hold around 2500 people inside. Exploring this cave will certainly give a thrill as inside of it has a grand interior eroded with minerals like stalagmites and stalactites which will give you a cathedral-like impression.

Along with exploring the cave, you will also pass by a very beautiful and traditional village of Bandipur. Bandipur is mostly habitat by Newars and is very rich in Newari custom and culture. Another interesting thing in the cobbled streets of village lined with traditional old houses.

Siddha Gufa is the largest cave in Nepal and second largest cave in the whole South Asia. So, to witness this unique piece of nature art, it will take around four hours from Kathmandu to Bimalnagar and around 1.5 hours from Bimalnagar to cave.

Kanyam, Illam

Tourism in Nepal is centered with the capital city, Kathmandu. It is just trekking that takes tourist away from Kathmandu, but there are many such beautiful places whose existence isn’t known to them. Kanyam is located in eastern Nepal in Illam district. It is a jewel of eastern Nepal and a very popular tourist destination (internal). Kanyam is a famous spot known for its mesmerizing beautiful tea garden. The view from top hill of Kanyam will just win your heart. Visting Kanyam will provide you with an opportunity of exploring eastern Nepal as well.

Another popular spot in the vicinity of Kanyam is Shree Antu. Shree Antuis visited by a large number of people to witness the captivating view of sunrise and sunset. So, do not forget to visit Shree Antu as well.

Gorakhnath Cave, Gorkha

There is a belief that Gorakhnath cave was once used by Baba Gorkhnath (sage) for stay. And, with regard to this belief the cave shelters a statue of Gorakhnath Baba. Gorakhnath Baba is a popular sage in the history of Nepal who made the prediction of Gorkha King, Prithvi Narayan Shah unifying Nepal. There is another belief that the name “Gorkha” of Gorkha district was derived from this very same sage. Located at a distance of ten meters from Royal Palace of Gorkha in southern side, this cave is a sacred site for Hindus as well as followers of Gorakhnath.

Phulchowki Hill station

Phulchowki hill station is one of the most accessible viewpoints of Nepal. It is the highest hill station located in south of Kathmandu which offers a scenic view and is also great for bird watching too. It is at a distance of 20 kilometers from Kathmandu where you can enjoy snow during winter season. From Phulchowki hill, you can witness the beautiful panoramic view of Kathmandu valley and mesmerizing snow-capped mountains of Annapurna range and Gaurishankar in east.

To reach Phulchowki hill, there is actually two way; one you can hike through Namo Buddha and another is direct ascending from Godawari. Phulchowki hiking is a nature walking with rich scenic view in a tranquil trail. The dense forest which falls en route of Phulchowki has provided home to different species of birds like a grey-headed woodpecker, whiskered yuhina, Yellow-browed tit, flycatcher and greater yellow nape.

Rupa Lake

Rupa Lake is a mesmerizing lake situated in Pokhara of Nepal. The lake lies in an altitude of 600 meters and covers about 1.35 km2 area. It is also the third biggest lakes of Pokhara. Rupa Lake has a perfect location surrounded by green hill and delightful forest. It is like a dream rowing a boat in Rupa lake and witnessing enticing view around.

Also, the lake supports many species of flora and fauna. There are 36 species of water birds around the lake giving you an opportunity of birdwatch as well. Rupa lake also supports the economy of that area with cage culture and pen culture practice for fish farming.

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Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve

Dhorpatan Hunting reserve is the only hunting reserve of Nepal. The reserve has many wildlife and vegetation. As per the record, there are 58 vascular plants and flowering plants includes 36 endemic species. Also, there are 137 different species of birds and 18 species of mammals. Apart from hunting, the reserve also offers verdant forest, marshland, attractive flat meadows and a stunning view of Mount Dhaulagiri and other peaks. In winter, you can also witness snow-covered area in higher elevation areas.