NEPAL
Best known as a walking and trekking destination there is also plenty else to do here in this Himalayan kingdom with culture, activity and wildlife being top of the list. The views are stunning, the people incredibly friendly and, although a perfect destination in its own right it can be easily combined with time in Bhutan, Tibet, North India or the Darjeeling and Sikkim areas.
Walking, trekking and activity
You can do one of the world’s classic treks, Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit, or opt for one of the remoter areas such as Mustang. Gentler walks also abound and nowadays you have a wide choice of mountain accommodation from basic tea houses, luxury lodges and camping of all standards. Nepal has more recently placed itself as a varied activity destination so if you have done enough walking, or do not fancy it, then think about cycling or perhaps river rafting with grades to suit all levels.
Kathmandu valley and Pokhara
Kathmandu itself is fascinating to explore although for a real flavour of Nepali culture get out into the “valley” to see the other ancient capitals of Patan and Bhaktapur – waking up to the sound of temple bells and seeing a procession of monks will live long in the memory. There are numerous boutique bolt-holes in close proximity of the capital and also do not miss the chance to see Everest at sunrise! Pokhara is known as the trekking capital and its glorious location next to Lake Phewa and under the Annapurna massif will inspire anyone – trekker or not.
Wildlife in Nepal – Rhino to Dolphin
For a complete contrast head south out of the mountains to the sub-tropical Terai where two of Nepal’s best known National Parks lie. Chitwan is known for elephant back safaris with the chance to see, among other things, Tiger and Asian One-horned rhino while Bardia can boast these as well as crocodiles and the rare Gangetic river dolphin. Anyone with a passing interest in birds should also include the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve.
Recent figures issued by the Nepali Government have shown a leap in tiger numbers of 63% from 2009 to 2013. The total of 198 is still very small but a welcome step in the right direction. See our blogpost.
Off the beaten track in Nepal
Last but by no means least some of the greatest experiences can be found in the smaller towns and less well known locations, for instance the ridge top town of Bandipur – here you will savour the incredible friendliness of these hospitable people and enjoy their views and landscapes.
Image credit: kathmandutraveler
- One of the best ways to help the country get back on it’s feet, after the April/May 2015 earthquakes, is to travel there. Some companies are donating all profits from tours back into the country.
- There are treks to suit all standards – you do not have to be super fit to enjoy some of the most beautiful walking areas.
- Accommodation in the mountains is varied so you can get very comfortable options as well as the more traditional camping or teahouse.
- Altitude is an factor in some areas so give yourself time to acclimatise.
- There are very distinct trekking seasons and the peak times, October/November, can get booked up quickly.
- Consider linking Nepal with Tibet, Bhutan or even Northern India. It can easily be combined with Varanasi and the Ganges Plain or with Darjeeling and Sikkim.
- Enjoying one of the great Himalayan treks
- Waking up to a stunning Annapurna vista
- Exploring medieval towns and temples
- Wildlife experiences – seeing rhino and tiger
- Your first view of Mount Everest
- Winter & Spring – September to April.
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by TMS
