Nepal (March 2008)

Nepal is a small Himalayan kingdom lying between the world powers China and India. Its name is derived from Sanskrit "nipa" ("at the foot of the mountain") and "alaja" ("a seat") that together means "The seat at the foot of the mountain". It is a country of stark geographical and cultural diversity, and the birthplace of Buddha. You can find there subtropical jungles and artic conditions in the Himalayas. It is a country with extreme climatic and geographic differences. The altitude rises from several dozens of metres to incredible 8,000 m. You can also find here eight of fourteen peaks which have become the symbols of Nepal. In fact enchantment is everywhere for any one in search of Shangri-La.