One of the nicest things of a visit to Nepal is simply to wander –on foot- the back streets of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur, the valley’s three major cities. The simple daily life of the Nepalese is as fascinating to watch as any museum, temple or palace.

Art and architecture overlap here - temples and palaces are decorated with intricately carved windows, metalwork facades, and sculptured roofs. Durbar Square, one of Nepal's World Heritage Sites recognized by UNESCO, is the heart and soul of Kathmandu. The square also houses the palace of the royal Kumari, Kathmandu’s living goddess.

The stupas of Swamyambunath (the Valley’s most important Buddhist shrine) and Boudanath are must visits. The all-seeing Buddha’s eyes that stare out from both shrines are the quintessential symbol of Nepal. Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple, Pashupatinath is dedicated to Lord Shiva and although non-Hindus have restricted access, the temple complex is an interesting visit as the streets leading to it are bustling with tiny, colourful shops that give it an irrepressible charm.