Province No. 1, Nepal Travel Guide

Discover Province No. 1 in Nepal: Home to Everest, lush tea gardens, vibrant festivals, and rich wildlife. A perfect blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty.

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Province No. 1

Province No. 1, nestled in the eastern part of Nepal, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural diversity. This region is home to the majestic Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world, as well as the Kanchenjunga, the third highest. For adventure enthusiasts, the province offers an array of trekking routes, including the famous Everest Base Camp trek and the Kanchenjunga Circuit, providing breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, serene valleys, and unique flora and fauna. Beyond its towering peaks, Province No. 1 boasts lush tea gardens in Ilam, where visitors can enjoy the tranquil ambiance and sip on some of the finest teas. The region is also rich in cultural heritage, with vibrant festivals, traditional dances, and ancient temples like the Pathivara Devi Temple, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike. The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, another gem of the province, is a paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers. Here, you can witness a diverse array of bird species and other wildlife in their natural habitat. The confluence of culture, nature, and adventure makes Province No. 1 a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking an authentic Nepalese experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Province No. 1.

Plan your visit during the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) for the best trekking conditions and clear mountain views.
Always check local weather conditions before heading out on a trek, as weather in the mountains can change rapidly.
Carry cash, as ATMs are scarce in remote areas and many small shops and lodges do not accept credit cards.
Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and participating in festivals.
Hire a local guide for trekking to not only ensure safety but also gain deeper insights into the local culture and environment.

Top City Travel Guides in Province No. 1

The cities of Province No. 1, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Namche Bazaar

Destinations in Province No. 1

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Everest Base Camp

Gokyo Lakes

Kanchenjunga Base Camp

Rolwaling Valley

Makalu Base Camp

Explore Province No. 1: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Province No. 1

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Golpahar Viewpoint Tea Shop

Discover the enchanting Golpahar Viewpoint Tea Shop in Mirik, where breathtaking views and delightful teas create unforgettable moments in nature's embrace.

4.5

Tingling View Point

Discover breathtaking views and serene landscapes at Tingling View Point, a must-visit tourist attraction in West Bengal, India.

4.6

Simana View Point

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas at Simana View Point, a must-visit destination in Koshi Province, Nepal.

4.5

Mirik Lake View Point

Discover the serene beauty of Mirik Lake View Point, a perfect escape in West Bengal's lush hills, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.

4.4

Best landmarks in Province No. 1

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Explore Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with stunning temples, rich history, and vibrant culture in the heart of Nepal.

4.5

Patan Darbar Square

Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Patan Darbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lalitpur, Nepal, full of vibrant culture and artistry.

4.6

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Explore the cultural heart of Nepal at Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site filled with history, architecture, and vibrant local life.

4.6

Buddha Stupa

Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of Buddha Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kathmandu, where tranquility and culture meet.

4.7

Best restaurants in Province No. 1

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Olive Cafe

Experience the rich flavors of Nepal at Olive Cafe in Biratnagar - where every meal tells a story.

4.1

Nisane View Point

Discover unparalleled beauty and delicious cuisine at Nisane View Point in Dharan - an unforgettable experience awaits every visitor.

4.0

Gurung's BBQ

Experience authentic Nepali barbecue at Gurung's BBQ in Dharan - where every bite tells a story.

3.8

The Dharan View

Savor authentic Nepalese cuisine with stunning views at The Dharan View in Dharan—your perfect dining destination.

4.3

Best bars in Province No. 1

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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Feel Good Bar & Grill

Experience a delightful blend of local and international flavors at Feel Good Bar & Grill, the culinary hotspot in Biratnagar.

4.2

Irish Pub

Experience the unique charm of an Irish Pub in Namche Bazar, a perfect stop for trekkers seeking warmth, good food, and great company amidst breathtaking Himalayan views.

4.4

Vintage Family Lodge & Bar

Discover the heart of Letang with delightful dishes and a cozy atmosphere at Vintage Family Lodge & Bar, ideal for tourists and families alike.

4.0

Liquid Bar Namche

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning mountain views at Liquid Bar Namche, the ultimate social hub in the heart of the Himalayas.

4.7

Best nightclubs in Province No. 1

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

LOD - Lord of the Drinks

Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Thamel at Lord of the Drinks, a premier club known for its lively atmosphere, innovative cocktails, and unforgettable experiences.

3.9

Iclub

Experience the electrifying nightlife at Iclub, Kathmandu's premier adult entertainment club with exhilarating music and dance.

3.5

Vintage Cafe, Lounge & Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Vintage Cafe, Lounge & Bar in Dharan, where great food, drinks, and live entertainment await.

3.9

Club Omnia

Discover the pulsating nightlife of Kathmandu at Club Omnia, where music and celebration come together in an unforgettable experience.

4.1

Best shops in Province No. 1

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Gorakha Department Store

Discover a diverse range of products at Gorakha Department Store in Damak, your essential shopping stop for local goods and everyday items.

3.9

Gorkha Department Store Damak

Explore Gorkha Department Store in Damak for a diverse shopping experience featuring local goods, groceries, and unique souvenirs.

3.9

Friendshop

Explore Friendshop in Itahari for unique gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of your travels in Nepal.

4.8

Barah Department Store

Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Barah Department Store in Dharan, offering a wide range of local products and a taste of Nepali culture.

3.7

Explore Province No. 1 on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Province No. 1, mapped for you.

Province No. 1 Essentials

Province No. 1 is located in eastern Nepal. The nearest international airport is Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. From Kathmandu, you can take a domestic flight to Biratnagar Airport, which is the main gateway to the province. Alternatively, you can travel by bus or hire a private vehicle from Kathmandu to various cities within Province No. 1. The road journey typically takes around 8 to 10 hours, depending on your destination within the province.
Within Province No. 1, there are several modes of transportation available. Local buses and minibuses (microbuses) operate between major towns and cities. Taxis and rickshaws are readily available for shorter distances. For a more comfortable and flexible option, you can rent a car or hire a private taxi for the day. In rural areas, you might also find bicycles and motorbikes for rent. Always negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
The official currency in Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops in major cities like Biratnagar and Dharan, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller towns and rural areas. ATMs are available in most urban centers, but ensure you have enough cash for purchases in remote areas where ATM access may be limited.
Province No. 1 is generally safe for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in busy markets and bus stations. Areas with higher crime rates targeting tourists are relatively rare, but it is always best to stay vigilant and avoid isolated areas after dark.
In case of emergency, dial 100 for police assistance and 102 for medical emergencies. Major cities have hospitals and clinics equipped to handle various medical situations. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in most towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes before entering temples. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Namaste' (a slight bow with palms together) as a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Province No. 1 like a local, visit weekly markets (haat bazaars) for fresh produce and traditional goods. Engage with locals who are often friendly and eager to share their culture and history. Don't miss visiting the popular tea gardens in Ilam for a taste of local tea. For a unique experience, trek to the Kanchenjunga Base Camp or explore the Arun Valley, both offering breathtaking natural beauty.

When is the best time to visit Province No. 1?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Province No. 1

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Province No. 1. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloनमस्ते
  [Namaste]
- Goodbyeअलविदा
  [Alvida]
- Yesहो
  [Ho]
- Noहोइन
  [Hoin]
- Please/You're welcomeकृपया/स्वागत छ
  [Kripaya/Swagat cha]
- Thank youधन्यवाद
  [Dhanyabad]
- Excuse me/Sorryमाफ गर्नुहोस्
  [Maaf garnuhos]
- How are you?तिमीलाई कस्तो छ?
  [Timilai kasto cha?]
- Fine. And you?राम्रो। र तिमी?
  [Ramro. Ra timi?]
- Do you speak English?के तिमी अंग्रेजी बोल्छौ?
  [Ke timi angrezi bolchau?]
- I don't understandम बुझ्न सक्दिन
  [Ma bujhna sakdina]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseकृपया मीनु देखाउनुभयो
  [Kripaya menu dekhaunuhos]
- I don't eat meatम मासु खाँदैन
  [Ma masu khandaina]
- Cheers!स्वास्थ्यको लागि!
  [Swasthyakko lagi!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseकृपया म तिर्न चाहन्छु
  [Kripaya ma tirna chahanchu]
- Help!मद्दत गर्नुहोस्!
  [Maddat garnuhos!]
- Go away!फर्कनुहोस्!
  [Pharkunuhos!]
- Call the Police!पुलिसलाई फोन गर्नुहोस्!
  [Pulislai phone garnuhos!]
- Call a doctor!डाक्टरलाई फोन गर्नुहोस्!
  [Daktaralai phone garnuhos!]
- I'm lostम हराएको छु
  [Ma harayeko chu]
- I'm illम बिरामी छु
  [Ma birami chu]
- I'd like to buy...म किन्न चाहन्छु...
  [Ma kinna chahanchu...]
- I'm just lookingम केवल हेरिरहेको छु
  [Ma keval heriraheko chu]
- How much is it?यो कति हो?
  [Yo kati ho?]
- That's too expensiveयो धेरै महँगो हो
  [Yo dherai mahango ho]
- Can you lower the price?के तपाईँ मूल्य घटाउन सक्नुहुन्छ?
  [Ke tapai mulya ghatauna saknuhunchha?]
- What time is it?यो कति बजे हो?
  [Yo kati baje ho?]
- It's one o'clockयो एक बजे हो
  [Yo ek baje ho]
- Half past (10)साढे (10)
  [Sadhay (10)]
- Morningबिहान
  [Bihan]
- Afternoonबेलुका
  [Beluka]
- Eveningसाँझ
  [Sajh]
- Yesterdayहिजो
  [Hijo]
- Todayआज
  [Aaja]
- Tomorrowभोलि
  [Bholi]
- 1१
  [1]
- 2२
  [2]
- 3३
  [3]
- 4४
  [4]
- 5५
  [5]
- 6६
  [6]
- 7७
  [7]
- 8८
  [8]
- 9९
  [9]
- 10१०
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?कहाँ छ ...?
  [Kahaan cha ...?]
- What's the address?ठेगाना के हो?
  [Thegana ke ho?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?के तपाईँ मलाई देखाउन सक्नुहुन्छ (नक्सामा)?
  [Ke tapaai malai dekhauna saknuhunchha (naksama)?]
- When's the next (bus)?अर्को (बस) कहिले छ?
  [Arko (bus) kahile cha?]
- A ticket (to ....)एक टिकट (....को लागि)
  [Ek ticket (....ko lagi)]

History of Province No. 1

Province No. 1, historically rich and culturally diverse, was home to several ancient kingdoms and settlements. The region boasts archaeological sites that date back to the Kirat Dynasty, which ruled from around the 7th century BCE. The Kiratis are believed to be among the first inhabitants who practiced an agrarian lifestyle and worshipped nature deities.
The Kirat Dynasty is a significant part of Province No. 1's history. It included rulers like King Yalambar who are mentioned in the epic Mahabharata. The Kiratis were known for their unique culture, language, and traditions. Their rule lasted until around the 4th century CE when they were succeeded by the Lichhavi Dynasty.
Following the Kirat rule, the Lichhavi Dynasty took over in the 4th century CE. The Lichhavis brought Hindu influences to the area, which are still evident in many temples and religious practices in Province No. 1 today. This era was followed by the Malla period, which saw a flourishing of art, architecture, and trade.
The eastern part of Province No. 1 was historically known as Limbuwan, a confederation of ten Limbu kingdoms. The Limbus, an indigenous ethnic group, played a crucial role in the region's history. The Limbuwan area retained a high degree of autonomy even during the unification of Nepal in the 18th century by King Prithvi Narayan Shah.
In the 18th century, King Prithvi Narayan Shah initiated the unification of Nepal, and Province No. 1 became part of this newly unified nation. The region played a strategic role due to its geographical location, acting as a gateway between Nepal and Tibet. The unification brought about significant political and social changes.
The Anglo-Nepalese War (1814-1816) had a profound impact on Province No. 1. The Treaty of Sugauli, which concluded the war, resulted in Nepal ceding significant territories to the British East India Company. However, the eastern regions, including areas within Province No. 1, remained under Nepalese control, preserving its cultural and historical legacy.
Province No. 1 is a melting pot of religions, with Buddhism having a substantial influence. The region is home to several important Buddhist sites, including the famous Pathivara Devi Temple, which is a pilgrimage site for both Buddhists and Hindus. The presence of Tibetan refugees has also enriched the local Buddhist culture.
The diverse ethnic groups in Province No. 1 celebrate a wide range of cultural festivals. Notable among these are the Sakela festival of the Rai community, Udhauli and Ubhauli of the Kirat people, and the Lhosar of the Tibetan and Sherpa communities. These festivals are marked by traditional dances, music, and vibrant attire, reflecting the region's rich cultural tapestry.
In recent years, Province No. 1 has seen significant development in infrastructure, education, and tourism. Cities like Biratnagar and Dharan have become economic hubs, while places like Ilam and Taplejung attract tourists for their natural beauty and tea gardens. Despite modernization, the region retains its historical charm and cultural heritage.