Kathmandu by Louise Pyne

Set amongst the towering heights of the Himalayas, Nepal's colourful capital city is a myriad of sensory sights, sounds and smells. Home to a melting pot of dozens of different cultures, it’s easy to see why travelers instantly fall in love with this awe-inspiring city - where sacred cows wander freely with tie-dye clad hippies. 

Hop on a rickshaw and head north-west of the city to Thamel. Best described as a shoestring travellers haven - while away the afternoon trawling through the crowded streets of the bustling backpacker district, teeming with cheap hostels, restaurants and hawkers vending handmade Nepalese handicrafts and fake designer trekking gear.

Want to mingle with the locals? For a traditional taste of Nepal, stop for lunch at a no-frills Newari eatery. Devour your way through a plate of authentic dal bhat - a wholesome dish piled with boiled rice and soupy lentils.

There’s no denying Kathmandu’s spiritual beauty. Best explored by foot, stroll around the city’s ageless temples, charmingly decorated with brightly coloured marigolds, overflowing with incense-scented Buddhist and Hindu shrines, and you’ll be enchanted by these seeemingly endless holy monuments neatly tucked away from the chaotic city centre.

Don’t miss the architectural grandeur of the ancient Durbar Square, studded with golden temples and magical monuments, and a visit to the spectacular Swayambhu, (affectionately known as the monkey temple) should be top of the to-do list for any inquisitive traveler. Magnificently set atop a conical hill, soak up spiritual atmosphere where monkeys roam freely and pilgrims pray silently, as you gaze over the sweeping view of the Kathmandu Valley as the sun goes down.

While you're there:

Head for the hills
Unleash your inner explorer and reach new heights at the heart of Himalayas. Trekking in Langtang Valley, (located a dizzying 4,600 metres above sea-level), offers 360 degree views of beautiful azure blue lakes, cascading waterfalls, snowy peaks and lush greenery.

Get an adrenaline kick
An adrenaline junkies dream, Nepal offers some of the best knuckle-biting white water rafting in the world. Head 200km west of Kathmandu and start your adventure in Pokhara, rafting through unparalleled views of the snow-capped mountain peaks and crystal clear blue skies.

Go beyond the clouds
Feeling really adventurous? Tackle the 15-day trek to Mount Everest Base Camp, known by the locals as Sagamartha. A route that takes you 5545 metres above sea-level, you’ll have conquered part of the world’s highest peak!