This small country is wedged in between two giants, the arid plateau of Tibet and the hot fertile plains and jungles of India. The Himalaya forms the backbone of Nepal and provides some of the best mountain scenery in the world. There are many ways to enjoy the spectacular beauty of these giants and Nepal offers them all.
Luxury lodges
Long the preserve of mountaineers and trekkers, the spectacular vistas can now be enjoyed by all. A series of luxury lodges in the Annapurna region, staffed primarily by the Gurkhas, complete with hot water, down pillows and en suite facilities provide a more comfortable alternative to the standard tea-houses.
Scenic flight to Everest
Those wishing to see the world’s highest peak can see the dark foreboding mass of Everest from the comfort of a light aircraft, or alternatively take to the trails and walk in the Sagarmatha National Park.
Chitwan National Park
The majesty of the Himalaya is equalled by the wildlife of Chitwan National Park, where elephant-back safaris seek the elusive tiger and the rare one-horned rhino, while boat trips offer sightings of the park’s 450 bird species and gharial crocodile.
Kathmandu Valley
The unique architecture of the Kathmandu Valley, the photogenic mountain villages and the open and friendly demeanour of Nepal’s people complete the experience.
Adventure
Nepal is often portrayed as an adventure destination and although this does very much depend on the traveller it does seem that adventure is in the air! Whether it be river rafting, trekking or elephant-back safaris, Nepal has so much to offer for the more adventurous visitor.
Mountains
64 per cent of Nepal is covered by mountains and it has the world's second greatest range of altitude, from the top of Mount Everest (8,850m) to the plains of the Terai at just 100m above sea level. However it is the Himalaya which dominates the country and is the primary attraction.
People
The Nepali people are amongst the friendliest in the world. Several diverse ethnic groups make up the population including Limbu, Rai, Newar, Sherpa Tamang and Gurung. Generally Nepalis are laid back and have a relaxed attitude to life; Kathmandu is great to see this diverse population and if you are trekking you are bound to strike up a fantastic relationship with your porters.
Temples
Nepal has numerous and diverse temples. Some of the highlights include the Buddhist Swayambhunath Temple and Bodnath Stupa as well as Pashupatinath, Nepal's most important Hindu Temple, which are all in the Kathmandu Valley. There are also hundreds of smaller temples and stupa in the high Himalaya on trails and passes.
Trekking
Nepal really is the world's best trekking destination. From short day walks to staying in basic tea houses, luxury lodges or tents, Nepal has it all and offers some of the greatest mountain scenery on earth. The most popular trekking destinations are around the Annapurna (central Nepal) and Everest (eastern Nepal) regions.
Wildlife
Tiger and rhino are Nepal's most famous mammals and can be found in Chitwan National Park although there are also elephant, leopard, several species of deer, black bear, Himalayan Thar and blue sheep! Nepal also has over 850 bird species so there really is abundant wildlife and Nepal is great for real enthusiasts and those who want to spend just a few days on safari.
