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Draped along the spine of the Himalaya, Nepal is a land of sublime scenery, time-worn temples, and some of the best hiking trails on earth. It's a poor country, but it is rich in scenic splendour and cultural treasures. The kingdom has long exerted a pull on the Western imagination.
It's the kind of country that lingers in your dreams long after you leave it. This is why so many travellers are drawn back to Nepal, armed the second time round with a greater appreciation of its natural and cultural complexity, a stout pair of walking boots and a desire for sculpted calf muscles.
Travel Warning: Violent Protests - General Security
Hundreds of pro-Tibet activists were arrested in Kathmandu on the eve of the opening of the Olympic Games. Further demonstrations could occur - travellers should avoid taking part in rallies.
Travellers to Kathmandu are advised to exercise caution, monitor news services and avoid any public demonstrations. Nepal's unpopular monarchy was abolished in May; Ram Baran Yadav was sworn in as first president of the new republic in July; Nepalese Maoist leader Prachanda became the new Prime Minister in August. Despite the new political stability, crime and violence has spiralled in recent times and there is increasing consumer anger over rising fuel costs.
Transport companies were recently locked in a dispute with the Nepalese government over petrol prices and were on strike, seriously disrupting road travel.
Trekking in Nepal should only be done with a group and an experienced guide from an established company.
For more information go to Safe Travel or check out the Thorn Tree travel forum for some good advice from travellers.
severity: Mid-level alert
Fast Facts
Country Full Name
Nepal
Population
26,469,600
Currency
Name: Nepalese Rupee
Code: NPR
Symbol: Rs
Electrical Plugs
230V 50Hz
Languages Spoken
Official: Nepali
Time Zones
GMT/UTC +5.75
Country Dialing Code
+977
Weights & Measures
Metric
Nepal - Free Guidebook Chapter
Download the free Getting Started chapter or buy individual chapters from our Nepal guide, in our online Shop.
› Go to the Nepal download page.
Related Travel Stories
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An Uphill Struggle for Nepal Trekking
article by Piers Pickard, January 2007
For those who go trekking in the mountains of Nepal, nothing is certain but desks and taxes. Read the full article ›
Tags: Outdoors • Nepal • National Parks
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Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.
