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Information on Nepal

The Kingdom of Nepal, located in the breathtaking Himalayas, is the worlds only Hindu kingdom, with a long history that extends back for millennia. In spite of its modest size, Nepal has over 100 distinct ethnic groups, fertile valleys, extensive plains, and four mountain ranges that include some of the worlds tallest mountains.

The capital city, Kathmandu, was founded over a thousand years ago and boasts a population of around half a million. The city is a fascinating combination of Nepal’s many ethnic groups. The growing influence of the West is particularly evident in the tourist area of Thamel, where there are a surprising number of modern style pubs and cafes set among the somewhat dirty, narrow winding streets.

Most travellers head to the renowned Durbar Square, which is the centre of the old city. ‘Freak Street’, famous for attracting ‘hippies’ back in the ‘60s when overland trips to the Kingdom first became popular, retains little interest nowadays.

Nepal has some of the world’s best white-water rafting, kayaking and mountain biking. Its tremendous scenery and friendly and hospitable people, make it a truly unforgettable experience for those who visit and absorb its rich and diverse culture.

There are a number of fascinating smaller villages, temples and stupas scattered around the Kathmandu Valley. Probably the best known site in Nepal is the Buddhist temple of Swayambhunath, commonly referred to as the ‘monkey temple’, after the tribe of monkeys which guard the hill. Don’t be put off by its many steps, the views are fantastic.

Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world, straddles the Nepal-China border. The Himalayan range, including eight of the worlds top ten peaks over 8,000 metres, are cited as one of the wonders of the natural world.

At the time of this writing, Nepal has been plunged into a constitutional crisis following the dissolution of the Nepalese government by King Gyanendra, who has declared a state of emergency. Consult official sources for updates before making any travel plans, as many embassies are advising against non-essential travel to Nepal.

Nepal Travel Partners & Resources

Far Out Nepal
FAR OUT is a small quality adventure company, specialized in arranging various cultural and adventure trips in Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan and India. We are also a strong eco conscious company in the fragile Himalayan region.

Swogun Nepal

	Swogun Nepal Swogun are looking for motivated and willing Volunteers.
The volunteer program is designed to provide you with first-hand experience of Nepalese culture and its social welfare. Your contribution could help to greatly improve the lifestyle of one or more families and communities.
VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS For any type of volunteering, volunteers have to donate as an administrative fee $150; this contribution will help to make Swogun Nepal, a sustainable organization For any type of volunteering, volunteers have to pay $120 monthly for accommodation with Nepalese host family including three meals a day

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