Destination: Nepal

Kathmandu

The capital and largest city of Nepal, Katmandu is located at 4,600 ft (1400 m) and is the gateway to most of Nepal’s tourism. Don’t miss Asan Tole, a popular bustling market; the Seto Machhendranath Temple, sacred to Hindus and Buddhists; and Maju Deval, a Shiva temple built in 1690 that offers great views and has become a popular meeting place. Many adventure tours can be arranged from Kathmandu.

Skydive Everest

Join this elite expedition and experience high-altitude skydiving with oxygen as you free fall past some of the world’s highest peaks. Three late October itineraries are available that include treks to Everest Base Camp. Call Incredible Adventures at 800-644-7382.

Bhaktapur

This traffic free UNESCO Heritage town is known for its cultural crafts and traditions. Time your visit for mid-April and you can celebrate Bisket Jatra (the Nepali New Year) in Bhaktapur, named by Lonely Planet as one of the world’s best festivals. Bhaktapur is one of the three sacred cities in the Kathmandu Valley, the others being Kathmandu and Patan.

World’s Highest Gig

Music4children founder Oz Bayldon is preparing to lead a group of music loving adventurers up Nepal's Mera Peak to make musical history, reclaim a spot in the record books, and raise enough funds to support an orphanage for two years. Both performers and audience members are needed to insure a new record and meet the organization's fundraising goals. Call Incredible Adventures 800-644-7382 for more information.

Patan

Known by art lovers for it’s carvings of wood and stone, architecture, dozens of temples and monuments. The Palace of the Malla Kings and Patan Durbar Square are two of the highlights of a visit to Patan. Traditional carpets may be purchased at the Tibetan Refugee Camp on the edge of town.

Pokhara

The end point for the Annapurna Circuit Trek is touristy but in a spectacular setting. There are lots of trails to follow but don’t miss the World Peace Pagoda or the International Mountain Museum while you’re there.

Namche Bazaar

The last stop before Everest Base Camp. Namche is a busy working tourist town with bakeries, convenience stores and hotels. You’ll catch more than a glimpse of Sherpa life as well as visitors from all over the globe.

Lukla

A popular stop for visitors to the Himalayas. There are lodges and shops providing trail supplies. For most trekkers Lukla is two days from Namche Bazaar. There are also daily scheduled flights between Lukla and Kathmandu in good weather.

Syangboche

This is the closest airstrip to Mt Everest and is not licensed for commercial flights; few facilities are available but it’s important in delivery of emergency needs to base camp.

Phakding

Within Sagarmatha National Park, most trekkers know Phakding as a welcome lunch stop between Lukla and Namche. In the center of town is a 16th centure Sherpa monastery. Comfortable guest houses can be found here as well.