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This magical kingdom holds sway over the imagination.
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.
Although the Maoist insurgency has ended, travellers should monitor the situation and keep abreast of warnings. Fatal bomb blasts in Kathmandu on 2 September may be a sign of rising political tension heading into a national vote in November.
Heavy monsoon rainfall has caused floods and landslides across the country. Travel in districts of Banke, Bardiya, Mahottari, Dhanusha, Jhapa, Sarlahi, Rautahat, Saptari and in the region known as the Tarai may be difficult and travellers should seek local advice regarding their travel plans.
For more information go to Safe Travel or check out the Thorn tree travel forum for some good advice from travellers.
