The mountainous Himalayan nation offers unrivalled scenery, enthralling wildlife and a warm welcome, finds CHARLIE WALKER

ROGER NORUM rises to a challenge that takes in hippie haunts and heart-stopping vistas of Himalayan splendour

Nepal may be best known for the Himalayas but, says Geoff Maynard, the true heart of this kingdom can be found in its population, but human and animal.

Nepal has long been the preserve of backpackers but after recent political upheaval, Jo McFarlane finds a luxurious new edge putting this captivating nation back on the tourist trail......