Nepal is a land of sacred temples, vibrant culture, and sweeping Himalayan views. From the ancient streets of Kathmandu to the hilltop panoramas of Chandragiri, every corner offers a picture-perfect moment.
Here’s your guide to capturing the best of Nepal.
Iconic Landmarks & Scenic Highlights
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) - Kathmandu
A hilltop stupa overlooking the entire Kathmandu Valley, wrapped in prayer flags and steeped in Buddhist tradition.
Pro tip: Shoot from the top stairway for dramatic cityscape views. Early morning light highlights the gold stupa beautifully.
Pashupatinath Temple - Kathmandu
One of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, set along the Bagmati River.
Pro tip: Capture the temple complex from the opposite riverbank to show its multi-tiered architecture. Candids of sadhus (with respect) add powerful storytelling.
Kathmandu Durbar Square
A UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with ancient palaces, pagoda-style temples, and intricate wood carvings.
Pro tip: Use low angles to emphasize temple height. Morning light brings out the rich reds and copper tones in the brickwork.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
A beautifully preserved medieval square known for its pagodas, pottery alleys, and traditional Newari architecture.
Pro tip: Frame temples through archways or doorways for layered compositions. Capture artisans at work for authentic cultural shots.
Chandragiri Hills – Cable Car Ride & Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple
A scenic ride above the clouds leading to a mountaintop temple with 360° Himalayan views.
Pro tip: Take wide-angle shots of the cable cars against the forested slopes. At the summit, capture the temple with distant peaks for a magical contrast.
Quick Tips for Great Photos
- Golden hours matter: Sunrise and sunset soften temple textures and illuminate valleys beautifully.
- Use layers: Foreground flags + mid-ground temples + background mountains create depth.
- Capture motion: Prayer flags, incense smoke, and cable cars add dynamic energy.
- Include people: Monks, sadhus, artisans, or locals bring scale and emotion.
- Play with angles: Low angles for temples, wide angles for landscapes, and framing through windows or arches.
- Reflections: Temple ponds and polished stone floors can create striking mirrored shots.
- Be patient: Clouds and lighting change fast - especially around hilltops.