Nepal

Expert view: essential Nepal Activity Holidays

Asia Base Camp Manager Valerie Parkinson has been leading treks in the Himalaya for more 30 years, and has spent over 50% of her life surrounded by the most magnificent mountains on earth.

1. Trekking Everest and the surrounding mountains: “Straddling a ridge with breathtaking views of Everest, Thyangboche Monastery is the holiest place in the Sherpa Highlands. En route to Everest, Hillary and Tenzing paused for a blessing. We stay in the teahouse next door, so close you can hear monks chanting.” 

2. Cycling holidays in Nepal: “The highlight of cycling in Nepal is undoubtedly Khardung La. At 5,602m it’s the highest drivable road in the world. Get to the top and be rewarded by close-up views of the Karakorums, and an exhilarating 40km ride down.” 

3. The Annapurna Circuit – in luxury: “Not all Himalayan trekking holidays require roughing it. Our low-altitude route through villages and farmland to the Annapurna foothills includes two nights at Himalaya Lodge. Where the snow-capped Annapurna peaks feel close enough to touch and there are fluffy duvets…”

4. Wildlife holidays in Nepal: “Follow in the footsteps of the BBC's Planet Earth and track snow leopards with guides – with an 80% success rate – in Hemis National Park. You’ll also see Tibetan ibex, blue sheep, red foxes and wolves on your journey, and visit a monastic festival.”

Click here to read Nepal travel insights from Valerie and the rest of our travel experts.