The population of Nepal is made up primarily of Hindus, who live mainly in the lowland and make up 90 percent of the country’s population. Next in number are Buddhists who are settled sparsely in the mountain villages close to Tibet. Nepal is also one of the poorest countries in the world; its economy relies on an export of agricultural products, textiles, carpets and of course tourism. The Nepalese are also adept in woodcarvings, pottery and silverware.

The Temple Cities
For first time travelers, it is best to start from Kathmandu. Nepal’s capital is the hub of the nation’s economy and the gateway to remote tourist attractions. Many parts of the city are clustered with ancient rose-brick temples, traditional and modern decrepit buildings, noisy and smoky vehicles, unmarked streets and beggars. Tourists can hire a bicycle to travel around the city or take a trolley bus to other tourist cities such as Bhatapur, Patan, Pokhara, Tansen and Gokha. The most popular destinations are Patan and Bhatapur. The two cities share the ambience of cultured cities and are considered religious centers for both Buddhists and Hindus with countless ancient shrines and temples.

Many of these ancient cities share similar layouts -- all have a town square, which is surrounded by medieval holy shrines, stone figures of both deities and demons, stupas and temples. However, each edifice is unique in architectural designs and historical background. Indeed, what seems to be the most amazing thing about these religious structures is the homogeneity of Hinduism and Buddhism found in every building and way of life of the Nepalese people.

Hidden in steep gorges and forested valleys are gushing rivers with many rapids and falls. Experienced rafters may set out on a difficult route at, for example, the Kamali River, the Sun Koshi or the Kali Gandaki while the novice may opt for the less furious yet thrilling stream at Trisuli River.

Even though mountaineering is Nepal’s most famous activity in the international mindset, it is certainly not the only one. Several national parks offer a multitude of jungle endeavors from a guided safari tour to a classical countryside trek. The Terei region, for example is home to Chitawan National Park, the most popular safari site south of Kathmandu. The park boasts endangered mammals and bird species such as one horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, hornbill and black and white stork. Several parks feature wildlife resorts with amenities of comfort, while others offer only camping facilities. Most of tourist attractions are open for travelers throughout the year but monsoon season from June to September can present some additional challenges.

For those who want to explore Tibet, the roof of the world, Nepal is the most practical gateway to this mystical land. Its harshly windy, cold mountainous topography is as fascinating and challenging to trekkers and travelers as the mystique of Tibetan culture and the awe-inspiring religious monasteries that spread throughout the cities. This China-occupied state has opened officially to tourists in the mid-1980s and can be reached via a flight from Kathmandu or some cities in China such as Chengdu and Beijing. However, a spectacular, if somewhat harrowing road trip from Nepal is possible via highways connecting Nepal to some southwestern cities in China.