Nepal with Jasmine Trails

The gateway to the Himalayas is a heady mix of chaos and beauty. A stroll through the charming lanes of medieval city squares of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur reveals impressive historical sites, hidden backstreet shrines, the soothing sounds of Buddhist chants, pizzerias, bakeries and art shops.

The distinctive multi-tiered “pagoda” form of the indigenous Newa architecture can be admired in the beautiful temples, pavilions and palaces and the lucky may get a glimpse of the living Goddess as she peers out of an ornate window of her palace.

A backpackers’ haven since the 1950’s, Kathmandu is home to a large Tibetan community and offers a great introduction to Tibetan food and culture. The stupas of Bodhnath and Swayambhunath are two of the most important Buddhist sites with the prominent all-seeing eyes the Buddha gazing out into all four directions.

As the abode of Shiva, it is also a major religious and spiritual centre for Hindus. The Pashupatinath temple on the bank of Bagmati river attracts holy men and pilgrims alike and is replete with mythological legends. 

Pokhara, the paradisiacal gateway to treks in the Annapurna region, is the perfect place to unwind after a trekking adventure or the sensory overload of Kathmandu. Enjoy spectacular views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks from the tranquil waters of Lake Phewa or from your luxury resort perched high above the Pokhara valley, while relishing the crisp air.

Explore the forests and villages nearby with short treks, while the more adventurous can indulge in white water rafting and paragliding.