Nepal the mystical side of Asia

Sandwiched in between the two behemoths of India and China is a tiny little country that happens to be the roof of the world and where a visa is no problem. It’s the capital Kathmandu, Nepal – the name brings about a strange mystical feeling. It’s a hectic place with a tourist area called Thamel that shelters you from reality whenever you enter it.

The tourist haven of Nepal

Shops, supermarkets, plush hotels and worldwide cuisines are all available here. Yet if you step outside this haven you will be back in the push and shove of real Asia. Head down to Durbar square to view the living Goddess, Shiva and see people sitting around temples straight out of a larger than life Hollywood movie.

Shadu Priests will pose in front of temples as young monks rush by late for school, their red robes flowing behind them. The houses are old, not just any type of old, but Ancient old. Then, if it becomes too much, you can head back to Thamel and indulge in Edmund Hillary’s local for an ice cold beer.

See more of Nepal

Or better yet, hop on a bus or plane and head to the paradise town of Pokhara. Surrounded by the snow peaked Annapurna mountain range and a still water lake, its fresh mountain air will set you up for any number of activities including hiking, paragliding, white water rafting, visiting Tibetan villages, or simple relaxing in the sun. It’s rare to find such an idyllic spot.

Want jungle? Head to Chitwan to go and ride with the Elephants or a Tiger watch before coming back to your lodge, and joining in with the locals in washing down your transport. Whether it’s adventurous icy cold high altitude mountain vistas, jungle safaris, or simply taking a restful boat out to the World Peace Stupa in the warm sun, Nepal truly has everything but the sea.

Contributor

Dave runs The Longest Way Home, an online travel journal about his ongoing four year around-the-world travels in search of home. It’s a temporary lodging to write about his journey to find home.