Nepal

We only stayed in Kathmandu in Nepal

Nepal is a troubled country at the moment unfortunately. The Maoist are unhappy with the King and government. We were lucky that there was a ceasefire in force when we were in Kathmandu but we met plently of travellers who had been in Kathmandu long term and had no issues with the security situation.

This situation however changes frequently. Keep in touch with your government's travel advisories on Nepal. We used the UK Foreign Office. Many governments are sometimes over cautious in advising people not to travel to certain countries and you need to make up your own mind. They are covering themselves in case something goes wrong. Read the advisories carefully as parts of the country may not be affected. Also check your travel insurance as it may be nulland void to countries where your government advises against all travel.

Another good source of info is the Lonely Planet Indian Subcontinent forums where people are posting new info all the time.

We found no problem in Kathmandu. The Maoists support the tourist industry. They are known to stop tourists doing trekking in the Himalayas and ask for a one-off donation. They even issue you a receipt! Don't even think of taking your moral high ground and refusing to pay. You will not be allowed to continue and if you get stroppy can be marched down with a gun to your head. We've heard of no reports of foreigners having problems with the Maoists if they toe the line. The donation is about $20 and if you meet another group later on you show your receipt and they allow you to pass.

After we left, our friends Aidan and Nichola did the Annapurna circuit and had to fly from Pokara to Kathmandu as there were reports of firing across the road.

Don't be silly and take the chance if there are reports of problems, it's not worth the risk.

So, if you do decide to go...

Kathmandu is very fairly relaxed and very geared up for tourists. Maybe a little too touristy.

Go to Pashupatinath on the banks of the river and you may be able to see cremations. We hired a local guide who was good. You can take photos and video but be discreet and respectful, these are funerals after all.

Walk to Swayambunath, the Monkey temple on the hill.

Walk to Pathan.

Shop till you drop in the shops of Thamel and around.

If you want to post things home you can find a million shops offering courier services. They have massivle different prices. We went to many places included the tip of a post office but found a small shop which were very reliable and much cheaper. I'll dig out the card and post the details.

Also if you are flying out of Kathmandu there are many more security checks at the airport. You are not allowed penlight batteries in your hand luggage so move them into your hold baggage othewise your expensive rechargables will be confiscated.

There is also a departure tax of 770 Nepalese Rupees to be payed in cash only at the airport.