Nepal

Nepal, nestled between China and India, is the world's only Hindu monarchy and boasts eight of the world's 10 highest mountains, including Mount Everest. On some Nepal trips, guests view the majestic peak by plane, while more adventurous travelers can hike among its foothills, exploring isolated monasteries, local teahouses, glacial valleys, thundering waterfalls and natural hot springs.

Some itineraries spend time in Kathmandu, the country's capital and largest city. Here, you can see the temples and palaces of colorful Durbar Square; the home of the Kumari Devi, a young girl believed to be a living goddess; the ancient Swayambhunath Stupa, a monumental Buddhist shrine; and Pashupatinath, one of the world's holiest Hindu shrines.