Nepal

Nepal family holidays

Nepal’s chief attraction is of course the majestic snow-capped peaks of the Himalaya, and these provide a truly immense backdrop to any Nepal family holiday. From holy Machapuchare mountain, with its iconic fish-tail shape, to the giant summits of the Everest range, the mountains are vast and alluring and a magnet to active families.

However, there is much more to Nepal than the Himalayas. The royal cities of the Kathmandu Valley are absolutely magnificent, with numerous intricately carved temples and grand Buddhist stupas. There are friendly villages and colourful, bustling markets. There are national parks where tigers lurk and rhinos have been brought back from the brink of extinction. And there are excellent hotels, from simple teahouses in the mountains to luxury trekking lodges and boutique safari camps.

Teenagers hiking in Nepal on family holiday

Trekking in the lower slopes of the Annapurna Region

For many families, Nepal offers the ideal landscape to explore on foot. There are endless hiking opportunities from easy day walks to longer multi-day treks, all passing through a gorgeous landscape of carefully tended fields, small villages and lively temples, with the ever-present mountains behind. And that’s not all, there are gushing rivers begging to be explored by white-water raft and steamy jungles where you can track rhino on foot.

Although this genuinely is a mecca for adventurous families, less active families or those with younger children can also have a wonderful family holiday in Nepal. You can, after all, enjoy sublime views of the mountains at dawn from the terrace of a luxury guesthouse, as well as from a trekking viewpoint. And you can enjoy a more sedate boat trip in search of wildlife, instead of racing downriver on a raft. Our specialists will be able to incorporate just the right amount of adventure and activity for your family.

Kids will enjoy exploring the Medieval towns of Nepal

Why take the kids to Nepal?

There are no shortage of activities in Nepal, with something suitable for everyone from teens to toddlers. Our top picks for Nepal family holidays include:

Watching the sunrise over the Annapurnas from Poon Hill
Wandering through the streets of a medieval city
White-water rafting in some of the world’s most spectacular scenery
Staying in a teahouse on a multi-day mountain trek
Spotting wildlife in Chitwan National Park
Browsing the markets for jewellery, fake designer goods and souvenirs
Spinning the prayer wheels on a hilltop temple, whilst monkeys dart around
Catching a glimpse of Mount Everest

Children will love a family holiday in Nepal, from the craziness of Kathmandu with its wandering sacred cows, living goddess and dread-locked holy men, to the exhilarating outdoor activities. Even the most reluctant naturalist will love the ‘thrill of the chase’ in Chitwan National Park, searching for the elusive Bengal tiger. Active children will enjoy the opportunity to hike into the mountains whilst others will hone their haggling skills in the bustling bazaars of Kathmandu and Pokhara. Most activities can be tailored to suit your children’s ages.

Check out our Nepal with kids – Top 10 activities blog for more ideas.

Child trying tradition food in Nepal on family trip

Classic Nepalese Dal Bhat… local food is tasty but there will usually be pizza options too

Where to trek in Nepal with your family

With a spine of mountains running pretty much the full breadth of Nepal from east to west, there are a lot of different trekking options to choose from on your family holiday in Nepal. Keen hikers may want to undertake the ultimate and iconic challenge of trekking all the way to Everest Base Camp. However this takes at least two weeks so those after something a bit shorter may prefer trekking in the Annapurnas, where an ancient network of farmer’s trails connect beautiful rural villages, with options for shorter and longer treks. Our Nepal specialists know all of the routes and will be able suggest something suitable for your family.

For more information on trekking in Nepal with your family, see our Family Trekking Holidays blog.

Nepal family holidays - kids jumping in a pool

Your own pool is the perfect alternative to the beach after an active family holiday in Nepal

Family holiday itineraries to Nepal

All of our itineraries are bespoke which means that they are tailor-made for your own specific family, taking into account the ages of your children, your interests, your budget and so on. However, to give you an idea of what you could do on a family holiday in Nepal, have a look at our sample itineraries, Nepal Highlights (no trek) and Active Nepal (with 3-day trek).

Also check out some of the other places that you might like to visit on your trip and if you need further inspiration, have a look at our Nepal photo gallery.

Lastly, don’t forget to check what the weather will be like at the time that you want to travel. Or simply give us a ring and we’ll be delighted to advise you on the best Nepal family holidays for you and your family.