and a wide variety of trekking optionsmeans that the spectacular vistas andphotogenic mountain villages can now beenjoyed by all travellers. The majesty of theHimalaya is equalled by the wildlife ofNepal's national parks, where elephant-backsafaris seek the elusive tiger and the rareone-horned rhino, while boat trips offersightings of Nepal's 450 bird species and the endangered gharial crocodile. The uniquearchitecture of the Kathmandu Valley, withits ancient pagoda temples and red-brickbuildings and the busy atmosphere inKathmandu's central bazaars are awonderful contrast to Nepal's wild spaces.The multitude of colourful festivals and theopen and friendly nature of Nepal's peoplecomplete the experience.This small country is wedged betweentwo giants; the arid plateau of Tibetand China, and the hot, fertile plains andjungles of India. The Himalaya form thebackbone of Nepal and provide arguably the best mountain scenery in the world.Long the preserve of mountaineers andtrekkers, a combination of small lightaircraft flights, fantastically located hotels104Nepal

Audley in NepalFor many, Nepal is characterised by thepresence of the Himalaya and the amazingopportunities these glorious mountainspresent to trekkers. Our specialists havedetailed knowledge of the country's trekkingregions and have spent much of their owntime hiking in Nepal. For those wishing tosee the world's highest peak without walkingthe challenging trails of the SagarmathaNational Park, we can arrange for you to seethe foreboding mass of Everest from thecomfort of a light aircraft. However, ourknowledge extends far beyond themountains, into the terraced foothills of theKathmandu Valley, where the Newari townsshowcase Nepal's rich culture. The country'snational parks are home to an array ofwildlife including the endangered Bengal tigerand the middle hills present untouched, low-altitude walking opportunities. Many of thesedestinations can be reached from Kathmanduby a good network of domestic flights.AccommodationIn Kathmandu, you will find everything fromfive star hotels offering a wide range offacilities to small, personally-run guesthouses.The traditional tea houses in the trekkingareas provide simple yet hospitableaccommodation for trekkers, while in theAnnapurna and Everest regions, moreluxurious options are on hand. These offerhot showers in en suite facilities as well ascosy bedding. For those hoping to go furtheroff the beaten track, fully-serviced camping isa fantastic option, where your crew will servedelicious freshly cooked food in the diningtent before you retire to your own tent,complete with thick mattress and snug downsleeping bag. In the national parks there arerustic lodges of varying standards where youcan enjoy the surroundings of the jungle withthe help of knowledgeable local naturalists.Find out more For suggested itineraries and practicalinformation about travel in Nepal, please seepage 111.www.audleytravel.comInteractive maps and features, further suggested itineraries,accommodation, climate informationand articles written by our specialists.Discuss your plans with our Nepalspecialists 01993 838 315?Chitwan National ParkTake an elephant-back safarithrough the depths of ChitwanNational Park, spotting birds,rhinoceros and, if you're lucky,the elusive tiger.Annapurna SanctuaryWake up to a cup of 'bed tea'in one of the Annapurna'scomfortable lodges as the sunrises over the 8,000 metrepeaks.34Nepal1051234567Traditional weavingButter lamps at a stupaNepali man, Durbar Square, KathmanduBhaktapurWander Bhaktapur's winding streets and discoverPotter's Square.Kathmandu's bazaarsShop for spices, fabrics and teain Kathmandu's bazaars.21TrekkingTrek through Nepal's middle hills and visit beautiful remotevillages.EverestYour first view of Everest willnot disappoint as you trek up to Namche Bazaar on theEverest Base Camp trek.RaftingFloat down the Seti Riverfollowing gentle rapids andstretches of calm waters awayfrom civilisation and surroundedby tranquil mountain scenery.Everest scenic flightTake a light aircraft flight to viewEverest, and get breathtakingviews of the Himalaya from take-off until landing.567