The short answer
Four: the Kathmandu Valley (seven monument zones), Sagarmatha National Park, Chitwan National Park and Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha. Between them they cover culture, mountains, wildlife and pilgrimage.
Key facts
- Kathmandu Valley
- Cultural, listed 1979
- Sagarmatha NP
- Natural, listed 1979
- Chitwan NP
- Natural, listed 1984
- Lumbini
- Cultural, listed 1997
How it works
- Start with the valleyFly into Kathmandu and spend two to three days on the seven zones.
- Add one natural siteChitwan is the easiest; Sagarmatha needs a flight and time.
- End at LumbiniIt is quiet, flat and best taken slowly.
Insider tip
Only the Kathmandu Valley is a cluster of separate monuments. The other three are single areas, so they ask for a different kind of visit.
Avoid this
Do not assume a "heritage tour" has to be crowded. Plan one site per day and keep the afternoon free.
Related questions
Is Janakpur a UNESCO site?
No. Janakpur is a major pilgrimage town but it is not inscribed.
Were the valley sites damaged in 2015?
Yes, several monuments were damaged by the earthquake; restoration continues, so some are in scaffolding.
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