Things not to miss

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things not to miss

It’s not possible to see everything that Nepal has to offer in one trip – and we don’t suggest you try. What follows, in no particular order, is a selective taste of the country’s highlights, including beautiful mountains, outstanding national parks, ancient cities and unforgettable experiences. All highlights have a page reference to take you straight into the Guide, where you can find out more. Coloured numbers refer to chapters in the Guide section.

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TREKKING Page 302

Nepal’s ultimate activity: an unequalled scenic and cultural experience.

BHAKTAPUR Page 154

The exquisitely preserved Kathmandu Valley town of Bhaktapur is built in dark carved wood and glowing pink brick, and adorned with fine stone sculptures.

BOUDHA Page 130

Clustered round the great white stupa, with its all-knowing Buddha eyes, is a thriving Tibetan Buddhist community and pilgrimage centre.

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MOUNTAIN BIKING Page 368

From precipitous descents (and, if you’re fit enough, ascents) to relaxed countryside ambles, Nepal is an epic place to explore on two wheels.

MOMO Page 31

These steamed meat or vegetable dumplings, resembling plump ravioli, are an addictive snack. They’re served with a chilli sauce, and you can find them everywhere from street stalls to fancy restaurants.

DASAIN Page 35

Dasain is the high point of the busy Nepali festival calendar. Masked dancers perform elaborate rituals in Bhaktapur and Kathmandu, people travel for days to be at home with their families, and children celebrate by playing on bamboo swings.

THE HIMALAYAS Pages 176 & 225

Even if you don’t trek, don’t miss a hilltop view of the world’s greatest mountain range. Nagarkot is the classic viewpoint outside Kathmandu. Sarangkot, near Pokhara, is a good alternative. ipi8hfBu+Fu1Tqp6g5eaALs=

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SHIVA RAATRI Page 34

This winter festival brings tens of thousands of Shiva devotees to Pashupatinath, the holiest of river gorges.

JANAKI MANDIR Page 288

Worshippers flock to Janakpur’s Mughal-style Janaki Mandir to pay homage to legendary lovers Ram and Sita.

JUNGLE WILDLIFE Pages 249 & 271

You’ll get closer to a wild rhino than might seem advisable at Chitwan and Bardia national parks.

OLD KATHMANDU Page 62

An intensely urban quarter of narrow alleys, noisy markets, fabulously carved temples and rowdy political rallies.

BUS JOURNEYS Page 24

Chickens under the seats, sunbathers on the roof and spectacular hairpin bends: rides on a public bus may be uncomfortable, but they get you close to everyday life.

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CHIYA Page 32

Leaving aside home-brew beer and raksi firewater, hot, sweet, milky, spicy chiya is Nepal’s national drink.

RAFTING Page 354

Not just for adrenaline junkies, but a wonderful way to experience rural Nepal.

GORKHA Page 198

The ancestral home of Nepal’s royal family is a quintessential hill town, albeit one with a fine ridgetop temple and palace compound.

PHEWA TAL Page 206

Relax in a boat on Pokhara’s placid lake, soak up stunning views of the Annapurna range and perhaps have a swim.

YOGA AND

MEDITATION Pages 43, 100 & 216

Kathmandu and Pokhara are spilling over with yoga classes, meditation sessions and retreats, inspired by both the Hindu and Buddhist traditions.