Nepal Vacation

Nepal is a landlocked country between the peaks of the Himalayas and the plains of India. It is a mix of jungle, ice and architectural beauty. The country is renowned as the home of some of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest. Go on a jungle walk, visit ancient temples and see wildlife from your perch on the back of an elephant. 

Trek through the Himalayan wilderness or climb its peaks on numerous trails for novice and experienced hikers. Mountain bike through Kali Gandaki Valley, one of the world’s deepest gorges. Hone your rock climbing skills on the slopes of Shivapuri Hill. Try whitewater rafting down the country’s major rivers, including Bhote Koshi River and Kali Gandaki River.

Walk the entire length of Nepal by taking the Great Himalaya Trail. Several routes pass through green valleys, subtropical jungle and mountain ranges. Since a 2012 change in the law, anyone wishing to trek in Nepal must be accompanied by at least one government-registered guide. 

You can also experience Nepal at a much gentler pace. Go on an elephant safari through Chitwan National Park in south central Nepal and see rhinos and Bengal tigers. Spot Bengal floricans and other endangered species on a bird-watching trip on the plains of Terai. Learn about meditation and Tibetan Buddhism at the Kopan Monastery.

Also worth a visit is Kathmandu Valley at the foot of the Himalayas. Tour the temples, palaces, monuments and bazaars of Kathmandu, the country’s largest city. While there, visit the home of the living goddess and ride a rickshaw through the alleys of the old quarter. Make your way to Swayambhunath, a hilltop religious complex where hundreds of rhesus macaque monkeys roam. 

Get around Nepal by taxi, bike or bus. Currently, Nepal has few railway stations and doesn’t allow self-drive cars for tourists. Visitors will need to hire a car and driver.

Nepal is an exciting vacation destination for its mountains, history and culture.