Nepal is one of the few countries of the world, which can boast of its long history and rich cultural heritage. Placed strategically amidst the countries India, Bhutan and Tibet, Nepal has the added advantage of sharing a good cross-cultural relation with all these countries. The influx and outflow of culture has led Nepal gradually emerge as a true cosmopolitan place. In its natural splendor Nepal offers a vast range of vegetation from the cold Alpine region to the tropical deciduous forests. It has the highest peaks in the world including Mount Everest as well as some of the deepest canyons. The rivers lead to the heart of this exotic land while secret trails are followed to discover the true soul of this mystic land.

Nepal is divided into three different regions; the south, which consists of plains, marshes and jungles, the north, which is covered by the mighty Himalayas and the low mountains of central Nepal where most of the country's population can be found. The majority of the citizens follow Hinduism and Buddhism and so you will find both Buddhist and Hindu monasteries and relics alike. In fact the entire year is filled with a number of colorful festivals of both the religions. It is a rich cultural center, one which adventurous tourists should not miss.

Though the literacy rate is only 45% and the gross development per capita is still poor, Nepal remains one of the few countries yet to be tampered and hampered by man.s mania for technology and materialistic wealth. An in-depth study of the country would provide a clearer view of its exotic appeal.

In the recent past, a lot of problems have spurred in Nepal, which are enough to clip your holiday in a hurry. High pollution levels and smog fill its valleys and theft has also increased on some of its most well liked trekking trails. Insurgency caused by Maoist rebels against government positions and the confusion with the Royal throne has ushered Nepal into a state of mass commotion and even the Kathmandu Valley cannot be considered fully safe now. The situation is often too unstable for casual tourists at this time.

• Location: 28 00 N, 84 00 E
• Area (total): 140,800 sq km
• Population (2004 est.): 27,070,666
• Climate: varying from pleasant summers to extreme winters
• Natural Resources: Timber, quartz, water, hydropower and scenic beauty.