Nepal forms the very watershed of Asia. Landlocked between India and Tibet, it spans terrain from subtropical jungle to the icy Himalaya, and contains or shares eight of the world's ten highest mountains.

The country's cultural landscape is every bit as diverse: a dozen major ethnic groups, speaking as many as fifty languages and dialects, coexist while two of the world's great religions, Hinduism and Buddhism, overlap and mingle with older tribal traditions - yet it's a testimony to the Nepalis' tolerance and good humor that there is no tradition of ethnic or religious strife.

Founded on trans-Himalayan trade, Nepal's dense, medieval cities display a unique, pagoda-style architecture, not to mention an astounding flair for festivals and pageantry. But above all, Nepal is a nation of unaffected villages and terraced hillsides - more than eighty percent of the population lives off the land - and whether you're on an organized itinerary, trekking, biking or even on an elephant safari, sampling the simple, content lifestyle of the people is perhaps the greatest pleasure of all.

Nepal Attractions

Krishna Mandir Temple in Patan City
Visit the only temple in Nepal, built in the 17th century, having 21 shrines completely made of stone. You will see the first specimen of Shikhara architecture engraved on its friezes. Most of the scenes engraved are from the ancient Hindu epics-the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.

Pasupatinath Temple
This two tiered golden temple is considered one of the holiest shrines of all the Hindu temples and has remained the presiding deity of ruling Nepalese Royalty. Visitors will see four triple silver doorways, icons and shrines which is unique Nepalese temple architecture.

Swyambhu Nath Stupa
Come see one of the most fascinating architectural jewels of the world. Built around 250 B.C. the stoup represents Buddhist architecture. Its white dome is identified with a jewel of Nirvana and a 13 tiered golden spire. Underneath are the all seeing eyes of Buddha painted on all four sides.

Boudha Nath Stupa
This stupa is one of the oldest, 5th century, and the biggest, 36 meters, Buddhist monuments ever built in Nepal. It stands on a massive three level mandala style Platform and is surrounded by colorful private family homes. It's architecture is mecca style designed for Tibetan Buddhists.

The Mustang Eco Museum in Jomsom
At the museum the visitor will find many artifacts and relics found at the burial caves in Mustang. Some of the items on display are beads, bones, pendants, ceramic vessels. There are musical instruments, costumes and mannequins that reflect the culture of Mustang.

Nepal Activities

Jomsom Resort Tour
With breathtaking views of the Nilgiri Mountains, the resort is designed to resemble a Thakali village and is totally committed to eco-tourism. Begin with a visit to the Eco Museum, displaying fossils, fauna, and flora of the region. Visit a nearby village and the beauty of Dhumba Lake.

Pokhara Village Tour
Capture the beautiful Nepalese scenery on your drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara Valley. Your visit begins with a boat ride on idyllic Phewa Lake, the kingdom's largest. Take in the highlights of the sprawling town including the old city, and explore some of the nearby scenic sights.

Tharu Village Tour
Journey deep into the jungle on elephant back, enjoy jungle walks lead by an experienced naturalist to experience the Park's abundant wildlife, learn about elephants, or observe life along the river on a canoe ride. Campfire dinners round out the evenings.

Hanuman Dhoka Palace
The palace which consists of a large royal square, known as Kathmandu Durbar Square, was the ancient seat of Nepalese Royalty. As you explore you will discover a variety of the temples, constructed from the 15th-18th centuries, dedicated to different Hindu Gods and Goddesses.

Patan Durbar
Spend a day at one of the oldest cities of Kathmandu Valley and the home of the finest Newari art. Hindu and Buddhist monuments are scattered throughout the town. Visit the Golden window, the royal bath of Sundaru Chowk, Taleju Temple and Keshab Narayan Chowk.