The very word “Nepal” invokes visions of high mountains, remote valleys and hardy explorers foregoing all creature comforts to test themselves against nature and her forces. However, long before the first mountaineers ventured north to the jagged horizons of rock and ice; long before the first rafter or kayaker descended the rivers; long before the first trekkers appeared on the ridges; the Nepalese were building palaces, temples, monasteries and complex townships to rival those anywhere else in the world. Arts and crafts flourished – so much so, that artisans and builders traveled as far as Beijing in China to build temples and Pagodas. The lost way method of metal casting was perfected, woodworking and carving attained new heights, stone carving and painting as devotional excises became art forms. Perhaps these are among the many reasons why, just in the vicinity of the Kathmandu valley alone, there are seven UNESCO designated World Heritage Sites, within a 13-mile radius. This trip is designed to introduce to you the essence of Nepal. The heritage sites and museums, stunning mountain scenery and model conservation and preservation efforts; all of which go to make Nepal one of the most exciting destinations in the world.