Nepal
Overview
With a mystical charm and the sprawling splendour of the Himalayas, Nepal is undoubtedly one of the most enchanting countries on the planet. Squeezed peacefully between Tibet and the muggy plains of north India, Nepal is a place of smiling faces, magnificent stupas, colourful festivals, bustling cities and serene mountain hideaways. Should you be in search of the ultimate trekking experience, Buddhist enlightenment, wildlife spotting or simply a chance to unwind, then the opportunities are boundless in this majestic land.
Boasting a population of over 29 million people, stemming from the mini-kingdoms of the Kathmandu Valley; Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur, this is a country of long traditions and rich cultural diversity. Alike numerous Asian countries, religion plays an important role in the lives of Nepali people and thus lays the foundations for many of the fascinating festivals that can be witnessed today. Of the religions, Hinduism is the most prominent, however, the country is famed for Buddhism being the birthplace of the Buddha himself.
The country itself contains a number of regions of interest for the curious traveller, unofficially known as Annapurna, Kathmandu Valley, Everest and Terrai. From the west, the Annapurna region is home to some of the most popular trekking routes, the famed Fishtail peak of Machapuchare and the beautiful lakeside town of Pokhara. South from here, at the border crossing into India lies the sacred town of Lumbini. Moving east, the magnificent Chitwan National Park sits within the Inner Terrai. Arguably the most frequented region is the Kathmandu Valley, home to Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital, as well as an abundance of captivating and historic towns, namely Patan, Bhaktapur, Nagarkot and Bodhnath. Last, but by no means least, Mount Everest sits northeast of Kathmandu on the Tibetan border.
Travelling to/from and around Nepal can be pleasurable, exciting and hair-raising all at the same time and it is not uncommon to see tourists sat atop buses with luggage and farm animals. Local and private tourist buses, of which there is an overabundance, are the easiest and cheapest way to get around, although, other than the ticket price, it is often hard to distinguish between the two. For those who can afford it, hiring a private driver is by far the most comfortable option, allowing for relaxed and quicker journeys. Unfortunately, roadblocks, caused by either the monsoon rains or Maoist activists, are commonplace, therefore it is wise to check ahead when planning a trip. Other than a short taxi ride to hotels, once landing in the town of choice take to the streets on foot and marvel as the true wonders of the country unfold.
Climate wise, Nepal has two distinct seasons, the dry and the wet monsoonal. October through May are considered the best times to visit, particularly Autumn and Spring, when days are mild, fields are full of colour, skies are clear and the mountain peaks are visible for miles. Then comes the rain, beginning in mid-June and lasting until September, when travelling conditions are known to deteriorate and hiking trails become difficult to pass. Yet, this time of year plays host to a number of big festivals, therefore if it is the only time available to visit then do not hesitate in going.
Nepal is certainly a destination for all seasons and one of incredible diversity, where it is impossible not to become addicted to the tastes and sounds of the local customs. If there could be one criticism it is that travellers find that one visit is often never enough, although this just leads to many returns as once bitten forever smitten.
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Nepal
Destination Reviews
Things to do in
Nepal
Durbar Square Kathmandu - The blossoming focal point of Kathmandu’s old traditional city. Setting foot in this UNESCO World Heritage Site is like walking into an open-air museum, with a fascinating collection of palaces, temples, shrines and courtyards.
Markets - Stroll around any of the markets in Nepal and uncover a world of delights, from bronze statues to leather goods and pashmina shawls to never before seen fruit and vegetables. Kathmandu and the neighbouring towns have particularly lively and diverse daily markets.
Swayambhunath - Climb the huge monkey inhabited staircase to reach the oldest and most enchanting shrine in the Kathmandu Valley, with its soaring white dome and sparkling golden spire.
Bodhnath Stupa - Join the hoards of Tibetans and worshippers in circling one of the worlds largest and most beautiful Buddhist stupas, or take a seat in one of the many surrounding restaurants and admire from above.
Phewa Tal - Relax in the shadow of the Annapurna Range upon the soothing waters of Nepal’s second largest lake. Enjoy the almost surreal pleasure of swimming in the inviting waters whilst admiring the snow-capped mountains.
World Peace Pagoda - Perched upon a hill above Pokhara, the impressive Buddhist stupa casts a watchful eye over the town and surrounding area.
Trekking Nepal - With eight of the world’s 10 highest peaks, trekking tours across the breathtaking Himalayan mountain range are a big draw of the country. Take a trip, ranging from three to 18 days, around the Annapurna Range or, for the real adventurers, to Everest Base Camp. Those not wishing to trek can find some wonderful walking routes around the Kathmandu Valley.
Chitwan National Park - Atop an elephant, explore the delights of Nepal’s first national park in the subtropical Inner Terai lowlands and discover one of Asia’s finest wildlife experiences.
Nagarkot - Escape the bustle of Kathmandu and relax within the natural confines of this hill station, taking in the unsurpassed views of the Himalayas.
Lumbini - Visit the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of the Buddhist tradition, and explore, alongside the hoards of pilgrims, the captivating temples, monasteries and famous Lumbini Gardens.
Nepal Festivals - Being part of a Nepali festival is a truly magical and unforgettable experience. Throughout the calendar year, vibrant and colourful festivals take place the length and breadth of the country.
Adventure Sports - With paragliding, white water rafting, bungee jumping and hot air ballooning activities all available, Nepal is as action packed as it is relaxed and adrenalin seekers can find all of their desires will be met.
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Nepal
Activity Reviews
Hotels in
Nepal
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Nepal
Hotel Reviews
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Nepal
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