Everest. Annapurna. Ama Dablam. Elevate your perspective forever as you gaze up at the mystical snow-encrusted peaks of the Himalaya, the “Roof of the World”, and wander through isolated villages and cliff-hugging monasteries. Then descend through the lush rice terraces and pagoda-roofed temples to Kathmandu where you will be entranced by the bustling market bazaars and quirky blend of traditional and modern culture. Birthplace of the Buddha, the pervasive spirituality of Nepal’s people will touch your heart.
Nepal: The roof of the world. Tucked between India and Tibet in the heart of the Himalayas, Nepal has been officially designated as “The Highest Country on Earth.” From soaring peaks that disappear into mystical clouds to the many mountain villages clustered around monasteries, Nepal’s lofty elevation is matched by its pervasive spirituality. Honored as the birthplace of the Buddha, its abundance of temples and sacred sites tell of a people deeply committed to living their spirituality, whether Buddhist, Hindu, Shamanic or Tantric.
Immersed in such staggering beauty, it is easy to understand their religious inclinations. Nothing compares to the radical shift of perspective as one gazes up at the immensity of snow-encrusted Everest, Annapurna or Ama Dablam. Pure heaven for trekkers, the rugged trails of these monoliths are eased with the support of smiling Sherpa guides and their teams who provide cozy tents and delectable hot meals along the way.
Journeying to lower elevations, the winding roads pass through lush rice terraces and pagoda-roofed temples, down into subtropical forests dense with banana palms and giant ferns. In Chitwan National Wildlife Park, riding on the back of an elephant, visitors can spot exotic birds, rhinos, crocodiles and endangered Bengal tigers before retiring to their luxury safari lodge.
Throughout the dramatically diverse landscapes, there are opportunities to explore by mountain bike or river raft. The more daring may try their hand at bungee jumping or paragliding. In the capital city of Kathmandu, one encounters the striking contrast of old and new. While taking a rickshaw ride to the ancient Pashupatinath Temple, you may pass numerous shops and restaurants with wi-fi and rock music. On the way back to your serene garden hotel, stop at the bustling market bazaar to purchase a soft pashmina shawl or brass Tibetan bowl. Visit the renowned heritage site in Kathmandu, the Bodnath Stupa, a white-washed and gilded tower painted with the huge eyes of the Buddha. Sip tea in a café across the street and observe the stream of pilgrims and half-naked sadhus circulate around the Stupa, turning the colorful prayer wheels as they walk by.
Not to be missed is Lumbini, where the Buddha once lived, Patan, a town of opulent palaces, art galleries and fine artisanal crafts and the Siddha Gufa, a large underground cave with spectacular stalagmites and stalactites. Never colonized, the Nepalese hold to their ancient ways and traditions with a strong national pride. Everywhere you go, you will be greeted by friendly faces and welcomed into private homes for a cup of yak butter tea.