Nepal

Summary

Gateway to the Himalayas and the highest point on earth. Snow-capped mountains and sparkling streams, villages that haven’t changed for centuries, forests of rhododendrons, tranquil lakes, ancient monasteries, Bengal tigers, leopards, bears, smiling monks, and of course the highest mountain on earth; Nepal has it all. Unforgettable, proud and enchanting, it is home to both the only living goddess on earth and to the Gurkhas. Everything begins and ends in Kathmandu, the capital city – rackety, noisy, and full of life, a melange of monks, hippies, travellers, hikers and mountaineers. It is dotted with Hindu temples and Buddhist stupas and is home to the Royal Palaces, hidden gardens, tiny workshops filled with craftsmen, and three magnificent Durbar Squares which are designated UNESCO World Heritage sites. It’s where the trek to Everest begins.

Experiences

• Explore the city of Bhaktapur
• Take a flight over Mount Everest
• Walk in the foothills on the Annapurna circuit
• Search for tigers in Chitwan National Park
• Trek to Everest base camp

Seasons

Spring: March to May is mildly warm in the lowlands, with temperatures ranging from 25-30°C and slightly more moderate in higher altitudes
Summer: June to August sees the monsoons and as a result is hot and humid, with rain almost every day. Temperatures can exceed 37°C in some regions.
Autumn: September to November experiences very pleasant temperatures ranging from 23-28°C.
Winter: From December to February the weather is cooler, averaging 19°C with clear blue skies.

Best time to go

Early spring and late autumn are the best times to visit Nepal, giving clear mountain views and the best weather for trekking.
It is best to avoid the monsoon season between June and September.