A landlocked country beneath the Himalayas, Nepal has been fascinating its visitors with treasures bestowed by nature and the unique diversity in the lifestyle of its inhabitants. A sense of deep respect and understanding bonds the multitude of faiths and cultures that have harmoniously co-existed over centuries. Although cultural monuments are a common sight anywhere in Nepal, the richness in art and architecture is preserved in the eight UNESCO World cultural heritage sites and two natural protection areas have been enlisted as World Natural heritage sites.

Geography

From the highest peak of the world to the deepest gorge, Nepal is blessed with incredible geo-diversity. The rugged and towering Himalayan Mountains on the north and the flat and fertile Terai with dense forest in the south are connected by the hilly region which has rocky hills and terraced farmland with small village communities.

Climate

Traditionally, years in Nepal are categorized into six periods, viz., Bashanta (Spring), Grishma (Early Summer), Barkha (Monsoonal Summer), Sharad (Early Autumn), Hemanta (Late Autumn) and Shishir (Winter). This division is specifically relevant in festivities, celebration, agriculture and harvesting. However, it can be understood that Nepal has four main seasons in Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter.
While the spring months are cooler with moderately warm days and occasional showers, summer months bring abundant rainfall. The monsoon rain drenches most of the summer days also causing erosion, landslides, flood and the likes. Autumns are less warm with occasional rainfall and the winter months are cold and foggy with heavy snowfall in the Himalayas. While light clothes with some moderately warm clothing would be sufficient for spring and autumn, warm clothing is a must for winter. Likewise, if you are travelling during summer, it is advisable to bring along rain protection for your backpack.

Interesting facts about Nepal

• Out of the 123 languages spoken in Nepal, the national/official language Nepali is the most common.
• Nepal has the only non-quadrilateral flag in the world, consisting of two triangles, one on top of the other and linked in between.
• Eight of the ten highest mountains in the world lie in the Himalayas of Nepal.
• ‘Namaste’ (pronounced Na-muss-tay) is the standard greeting in Nepal. It is used to say ‘Hello’ or ‘Good Bye’. It means “I acknowledge the god in you.” While saying Namaste, you bring your palms together with the fingers pointing upwards and your head slightly bowing to show respect.
• Cows are considered sacred in Nepal and therefore illegal to kill or eat. Beef is largely off the menu and asking for it may be considered culturally offensive.
• Although a majority of Nepalese have a strong faith in Hinduism and Buddhism, other religions exist in harmony. Nepal is a common garden of multi-culture and multi-ethnicity.