Nepal Travel Guide

Located between India and China (including the Chinese-occupied Tibet) surrounded by the lofty peaks of the Himalayan Mountains, Nepal is a sovereign independent Kingdom which is home to approximately 29.5 million. The country spans 885 kilometres from east to west, and ranges from 145 to 241 kilometres in different areas from north to south. Due to its locality, Nepal is a unique blend of cultures. It is a land of yaks and yetis, stupas and Sherpas and some of the best trekking terrain on earth.

The history of Nepal began in the Kathmandu Valley, with arrivals from the east of the Hindu Kiratis who inhabited the Kathmandu valley from around the 7th century BC. A little later a prince of the Sakya Royal family was born in the area and began the practices that led to the formation of Buddhism as a religion in Nepal and surrounding areas.

Eventually the Kiratis were defeated as the rulers by invaders from northern India and Hinduism replaced Buddhism as the dominant religion once again. The descendants of the Kiratis are still in Nepal and known as the Rai and Limbu people. Following the victory of the Licchavis Nepal lived through around 400 years of prosperity and cultural growth, before disappearing from recorded history somewhere around the late 800's in what is known as the dark ages. At least two invasions occured during this period by Tibet and also Kashmir, however the Kathmandu Valley’s strategic location ensured the kingdom’s growth and survival. Over the centuries, Nepal’s boundaries have extended to include huge tracts of neighbouring India, and contracted to little more than the Kathmandu Valley and a handful of nearby city-states. Though it has ancient roots, the modern state of Nepal emerged only in the 18th century.

Nepal has long prospered from its location as a resting place for traders, travellers and pilgrims. A cultural mixing pot, it has bridged cultures and absorbed elements of its neighbours, yet retained its own unique character. After visiting India, many travellers notice both the similarities and differences.

Trekking is by far Nepal’s biggest attraction offering mesmerising scenery and experiences. It's most well known peak is the incredible Mt Everest which rises over the landscape to staggering effect. What some don't realise is that the Hamalayan region has 8 peaks that exceed 8000 metres. These and other mountains form the backdrop as visitors experience amazing treks that traverse the wilderness and inhabited areas alike. Cool streams, strange forests of rhododendrons and rice growing areas are just some of the scenery which form beautiful vistas around the winding paths. Camping on a hilltop in the wilderness in the shadow of the rock and icy sentinels that stand here is for some one of the world’s best and most memorable experiences.