Middle Hills Travel Guide

Explore the cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, and more with our comprehensive travel guide to Middle Hills in Nepal.


Introduction to Middle Hills

Located in the central region of Nepal, Middle Hills is a picturesque destination known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and historical significance. The region stretches from the Kathmandu Valley to the high Himalayas in the north, and is surrounded by mountain ranges and lush forests, creating an ideal environment for outdoor activities and adventure.

List of Places to Visit in Middle Hills

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kathmandu Durbar Square
  • Swayambhunath Temple (Monkey Temple)
  • Pashupatinath Temple
  • Boudhanath Stupa
  • Patan Durbar Square
  • Bhaktapur Durbar Square
  • Changu Narayan Temple
  • Manakamana Temple
  • Gorkha Durbar
  • Palpa Tansen

Natural Attractions of Middle Hills: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Langtang National Park
  • Annapurna Conservation Area
  • Shivapuri National Park
  • Chitwan National Park
  • Rara Lake
  • Fewa Lake
  • Begnas Lake
  • Seti River Gorge
  • Kalika Hill
  • Kasara Ridge

Hiking/Biking Routes of Middle Hills

  • Annapurna Circuit Trek
  • Everest Base Camp Trek
  • Manaslu Circuit Trek
  • Langtang Valley Trek
  • Upper Mustang Trek
  • Kathmandu Rim Valley Trek
  • Biking in Pokhara Valley
  • Royal Trek
  • Dhampus Trek
  • Nagarkot Hike

Best Things to Do in Middle Hills: Activities and Tours

  • Flightseeing over Mount Everest
  • Paragliding in Pokhara
  • White water rafting in Seti River
  • Kayaking in Marsyangdi River
  • Jungle safari in Chitwan National Park
  • Mountain biking in Kathmandu Valley
  • Bungee jumping in Bhote Koshi river
  • Zip flyer in Pokhara
  • Elephant ride in Chitwan National Park
  • Hot air balloon ride in Pokhara

Week-Long Itinerary for Middle Hills

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu, check-in to hotel
Day 2 Explore Kathmandu city
Day 3 Head to Pokhara, explore city
Day 4 Trek to Annapurna Base Camp or Ghorepani
Day 5 Head back to Pokhara
Day 6 Jungle Safari in Chitwan National Park
Day 7 Return to Kathmandu and depart

Food and Drink Scene of Middle Hills

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dal Bhat (Nepali staple dish)
  • Mo:Mo (dumpling)
  • Samosa (snack)
  • Chatamari (Nepali pizza)
  • Gorkhali lamb
  • Chana masala
  • Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup)
  • Sel roti (sweet fried bread)
  • Lassi (yogurt-based drink)
  • Raksi (local alcoholic beverage)

Local Beverages

  • Chyang (millet beer)
  • Tongba (hot fermented millet beverage)
  • Juju Dhau (locally made yogurt)

Where to Stay in Middle Hills: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Yak & Yeti, Kathmandu
  • Dwarika Hotel, Kathmandu
  • Hotel Shambala, Kathmandu
  • Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge, Pokhara
  • Annapurna Eco Village, Pokhara
  • Gorkha Gaun Resort, Gorkha
  • Country Villa, Nagarkot
  • View Point Hotel, Bandipur

What to Buy in Middle Hills: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Hand-woven carpets and textiles
  • Traditional handicrafts such as woodcarvings and metalworks
  • Thangka (Tibetan Buddhist painting)
  • Khukuri (traditional Nepali knife)
  • Pashmina shawls and scarfs
  • Singing bowls
  • Yak wool products
  • Handmade paper products

Local Culture and Customs of Middle Hills

  • Dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions
  • Remove shoes before entering religious places
  • Avoid showing public display of affection
  • Seek permission before taking photographs of people
  • Use only the right hand while eating

Best Time to Visit Middle Hills

The best time to visit Middle Hills is from September to November and from March to May. These months offer clear skies and moderate weather, making it easier to trek and explore the outdoors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Middle Hills

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Carry sufficient cash for transactions, as ATMs are not readily available in some areas.
  • Bargain while shopping as it is part of the local culture.
  • Drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.
  • Take appropriate precautions for trekking and outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the local culture and customs.
  • Drink tap water.
  • Litter in the mountains or the countryside.
  • Leave any valuables unattended.

Safety and Health

Safety in Middle Hills

  • Always carry identification and your hotel address with you.
  • Be aware of trekking routes and possible natural hazards.
  • Take precautions against theft and pickpocketing.
  • Avoid uncooked or unpeeled food and drink bottled or boiled water.

Health in Middle Hills

  • Consult your doctor and take appropriate vaccinations before traveling.
  • Carry first-aid kits and any necessary medications.
  • Be aware of altitude sickness and take appropriate precautions.
  • Wear appropriate clothing and use insect repellent to avoid insect bites.

Getting to Middle Hills: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Middle Hills

  • Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu
  • Pokhara Airport, Pokhara

Bus Stations Near Middle Hills

  • New Bus Park, Kathmandu
  • Gongabu Bus Station, Kathmandu
  • Tourist Bus Park, Pokhara

Other Options

  • Private transfers
  • Helicopter tours

How to Get Around in Middle Hills

  • Local buses
  • Taxis
  • Motorcycles/scooters
  • Bicycles

Where to Go Next from Middle Hills: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Everest Base Camp Trek
  • Upper Mustang Trek
  • Lumbini (birthplace of Buddha)
  • Bardia National Park
  • Janakpur (Site of the historic Hindu temple Janaki Mandir)
  • Kathmandu Valley

Conclusion

Middle Hills is a paradise for travelers seeking an authentic cultural and natural experience. From breathtaking mountain vistas to delicious local cuisine and rich history and culture, this region offers something for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re well prepared to embark on a memorable trip to Middle Hills, Nepal.



    Daman
    Jiri
    Tangting