Nepal is land of scenic grandeur and culture diversity. Trekking on foot is the only way of knowing the people and places intimately. One need not be a mountaineer to trek in the hills of Nepal, where more than half of the total population of the country lives. A network of tracks and trails marketed with shaded east places connect numerous villages. A short trek will reveal picturesque hamlets surrounded by elaborate terraced fields and forested ridges. A long trek may yield rich contrasts in people and culture from one ecological level to another. The rich variety in flora and fauna within a short distance is another rewarding experience, and there is always the prospect of viewing some of the highest mountains in the world. In the densely populated central hills there are numerous small shops serving tea and simple food to travelers at till junction, bridge -sites and convenient saddles. The track may sometime be rough because of the mountain terrain but it is a delight to arrive at numerous vantage points that reveal new vistas. In the mountain area, the track may traverse steep slopes with plunging waterfalls but the large villages below temperate forests welcome travelers. In the high valleys beyond the Himalayas, villages are set wider apart but here also a traveler can find cattle sheds and cave Himalayan valleys providing sweeping views of grassy slopes, glaciers and magnificent snow peaks and culture reminiscent of Tibet. Wherever one travels, people are friendly and hospitable and the roads are safe. Depending on the season, one may meet on the road local people in their distinctive dresses, laden porters, caravans of sheep and goats or Gurkha soldiers on home leave. Life in rural Nepal is hard but simple and there are many religious and social events that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the people. One might visit simple or elaborate gompas for diversion along with fishing and swimming opportunities in the clear mountain streams.

The best way to experience Nepal's unbeaten combination of natural beauty and cultural riches is to walk through them. The immense contrasts in altitudes and climates found here support an equally spectacular mix of lifestyles, vegetation types and wildlife. You will see Chhetri farmers working in their fields and Tamang herders grazing their animals on the steep slopes.