Nepal Holiday
Sandwiched between India and Tibet and containing eight of the world's ten highest mountains, Nepal is a country that continues to attract travellers through its mysticism.
Home to dozens of varying ethnic groups and as many as 50 different languages, Nepal's cultural landscape is almost as diverse as its geographical one.
The population of Kathmandu, Nepal's largest city and capital, reflect the mix of Hinduism and Buddhism prevalent throughout the country. The two major religions sit easily with ease other, with Hindu temples and Buddhist Stupas dotted around the city's medieval streets and contributing to the colourful vibrancy so famed amongst backpackers.
Unlike its close neighbour, Nepal was never colonised and has a history that is founded on its integral position as a trans-Himalayan trade route. Dense medieval cities with pagoda style architecture along with many villages set upon terraced countryside leave travellers with fantastic images from their trip.
Until recently, Nepal was run as an absolute monarchy but things have now changed and a democracy is in place - albeit a delicate one. The Maoist insurgency is deeply entrenched within the country and has been reinforced by corruption and frequent change within government.
As a developing country there are huge gulfs to be seen between the urban development and rural way of life and as one of the world's poorest countries there are a number of problems that have arisen out of this.
The stunning geographical landscape dictates many travellers' trip to Nepal and trekking on some of the world's greatest trails is an absolute must when visiting.
First time independent trekkers who are short on time can find some excellent trails in the Annapurna and Helambu-Langtang regions while Everest and Annapurna also offer routes for those with more time to spend in the country.
The city of Pokhara, north west of Kathmandu and set on a tranquil lakeside location, serves as an ideal base from which travellers can plan or even recover from a mountain trek.
Southwest of Kathmandu, the village of Daman situated 2322 metres above sea level, offers a spectacular panorama of the Himalayas from Dhaulagiri to Mt Everest.
The city of Kathmandu itself is another must see for travellers although the beauty of the old city and its 17th century Buddhist and Hindu temples and palaces contrasts strongly with the pollution and problems that over-development can bring.
Hanuman Dhoka is the old royal palace in Durbar Square at the heart of Kathmandu and although damaged by an earthquake in 1934 the traditional architecture is well worth exploring.
The Royal Chitwan National Park, south of Bharatpur, offers a great experience for visitors wishing to experience some amazing wildlife. It is one of the last refuges of the Bengali tiger and also contains one of the few remaining populations of single-horned Asiatic Rhinos.
Travel within Nepal can be difficult and time consuming although of course ultimately rewarding. Domestic airlines run throughout the country while bus routes are also a safe, if timely, way to get around.
It is also worth bearing in mind that a journey there between mid June and September would take in the monsoon season so October to May is a better time to visit.
