Kathmandu

From Swayambhu to the Amitabha Monastery (in Nepali 'Seto Gumba' you will master an approximately 15 kilometre (9.3 miles) long, 4-5-hour hike, with beautiful panoramic views over the Kathmandu Valley and the chance to admire a breathtaking sunset or sunrise, if you time your journey right. For inexperienced hikers, it is recommendable to join a group or to hire a guide for the trek.

From Kathmandu to the small village Kakani — this hiking path leads you through the sub-alpine forests of Nepal. The trek itself is graded easy with only a slight incline. Keep in mind that the walk might take up to 5-6 hours, though. It is recommended to hire a local agency for secured transport and experienced guides along the way.

Dedicated to the Hindu monkey god, Hanuman, this impressive palace complex was constructed between the 4th and 8th centuries and then expanded considerably in the 17th. Spread over 5 acres, it contains the Royal Palace and many beautiful temples and courtyards. Unfortunately, the complex was severely damaged during the 2015 earthquake and reconstruction is still underway.

Kathmandu's central square is a breathtaking sight, packed with palaces, temples, shrines, and pagodas. The colours, sounds and smells are intoxicating as what seems like the whole city passes through on any given day. It is the centre of spiritual and cultural life in Kathmandu and cannot be missed. Kathmandu Durbar Square in front of the old royal palace is one of three Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley, all of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The ideal place to escape the hectic rhythm and constant bustle of the city, the Garden of Dreams provides a refuge for nature lovers. This small garden with its beautifully decorated gates, fountains and pavilions is a great place for a picnic and a spot of people watching, as young local couples often come for a romantic day out.

This red-brick building is the home of the Kumari — a young girl chosen as the city's 'living goddess', a charge she occupies until reaching puberty. Inside is a wonderful courtyard (considered by some to be the most beautiful in all of Nepal) where the Kumari herself may be seen from 9 am to 11 am, though photographing her is forbidden.

Nepal's National Museum houses wonderful treasures, ranging from Buddhist art (statues, paintings and gigantic manuscripts) to stone, metal and terracotta statues. The highlight is the statue of Sukhavara Samvara, with 34 intricate arms and 10 faces. Another favourite is the collection of weapons belonging to national heroes such as Prithvi Narayan Shah, the founder of Nepal. The National Museum has three exhibition buildings — the Historical building, the Juddha Jatiya art gallery, and the Buddhist art gallery.

Of course, not every trip to Nepal must include the arduous and dangerous hike to the world's tallest mountain. However, you can embark on a mountain flight from Tribhuvan Airport for a panoramic encounter with the highest peaks on earth. Witness majestic views of Mt. Everest, as well as Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kantega, Lhotse and Nuptse. A short but memorable flight over the clouds. Mark the occasion with a glass of sparkling wine.

Just outside Kathmandu, in the village of Kapan, lies this Buddhist monastery. It is the perfect destination for a day-trip, or even a few nights in one of the guest rooms. The monastery is famed for its beautiful setting and peaceful, relaxing surroundings. Many visitors come here to attend courses in search of a spiritual experience.