About Nepal

Nepal is a Kingdom with a richly diverse cultural heritage. Amongst the more than 23 million people who live in Nepal, there are 60 ethnic groups. Some of which are the Newar, Sherpa, Tharu, Rai, and the Dhimal. The many shrines, temples, stupas, and palaces are a testament to the rich cultural history that can be found in this small Hindu Kingdom at the foot of the Himalayas. Kathmandu, the capitol, is a crossroads for the many ethnic groups of Nepal, providing an unique perspective on the complexities of Nepali culture. Along with the amazing historical architecture found in the region, touring the Kathmandu Valley is a must for visitors interested in exquisite art, music, dance, and the fabulous native cuisine. There are also many restaurants that cater to westerners.

Nepal is a geographically diverse country with altitudes that range from 70 meters to 8,848 meters. Even though Nepal is a small country the ecological and geological diversity is immense, ranging from wind swept deserts, gorgeous lakes, marshy grasslands with green rice paddy terraces, and hot jungles to the highest place on earth, Mt. Everest.

As a result of this incredible diversity, Nepal is a place where one day you can find yourself riding an elephant in the jungle looking for tigers or rhinos and the next day find yourself trekking high in the Himalayan mountains. Yaks are seen in the high mountains. There are many rivers originating in the Himalayas providing incredible rivers for rafting trips and kayaking at the lower elevations.

The National Parks protect and preserve many of Asia's endangered species in their natural habitats. The tropics provide homes for 500 species including, tigers, rhinos, bear, and leopards. There are about 850 species of birds found in Nepal. Open reserves are now popular for bird watchers with sightings of snow cock, snow pigeon, giant crane, babblers and the beautiful pheasant which is the national bird.

The climate conditions vary according to the geographical features. In the north the summers are cool and winters are severe, In the south the summers are sub tropical and winters are mild.

Natural resources found in Nepal are: quartz, lignite, copper, cobalt, iron and timber.

With its National Parks, Nepal protects and preserves many of Asia's endangered species in there natural habitats.