Himalayas

Himalayas: Geography and magic of the mountains

The Himalayas stretch for more than 2,400 kilometres across the territories of Nepal, China (Tibet), Bhutan, India, and Pakistan. This is the highest mountain system in the world, home to 10 of the 14 eight-thousanders — mountains that exceed 8,000 metres in height — including the majestic Everest.

The Himalayas were formed as a result of one of the largest geological processes on Earth — the collision of tectonic plates. Around 50 million years ago, the Indian Plate, moving northwards, collided with the massive Eurasian Plate. The towering heights of these mountains have led to the formation of zones of eternal snow and numerous glaciers, which serve as vital water sources for some of Asia's largest rivers, such as the Indus, Ganges, and Brahmaputra.

However, the Himalayas' incredible diversity makes them unique. From snow-capped summits, steep and jagged peaks, and eternal glaciers to lush green valleys, alpine meadows, and deep river gorges, every turn reveals a new, even more breathtaking landscape.

Nepal: Gateway to the top of the world

Nepal is the only country in the world with a flag that has a non-standard shape — two triangles symbolising the Himalayas and the country's principal religions: Hinduism and Buddhism. Even the air in Nepal is special, as the capital, Kathmandu, lies at an altitude of about 1,300 metres, and nearly half of the country's territory is situated above 3,000 metres.

Everest

For most travellers, Nepal is synonymous with Everest, the highest mountain in the world. However, only a select few managed to reach the summit. Due to tectonic activity, the mountain continues to grow, and its height is periodically reassessed. In 2020, it was determined that Everest had "grown" to 8,848.86 metres. For those not prepared for a challenging ascent, there is the option to admire Everest from a bird's-eye view on a helicopter tour and capture stunning photographs from observation decks.

Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the cosmopolitan capital of Nepal, guards ancient traditions, culture, and history. Located around 1,300 metres above sea level, this vibrant, bustling, and multifaceted city is the main starting point for journeys into the Himalayas.

Kathmandu is known as the "City of Temples" — rightly so. Here, one can encounter shrines at every turn, many listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

• The Pashupatinath Temple is the oldest Hindu temple dedicated to the god Shiva. Its central structure is a pagoda with a golden roof. Shiva's sacred lingam is kept in the interior, which is accessible only to Hindus. This site is a significant centre for rituals associated with life, death, and rebirth.
• The Boudhanath Stupa is a Buddhist temple complex on a high hill overlooking Kathmandu. It features a massive semicircular stupa surrounded by prayer wheels and is renowned for its enormous golden dome and prayer flags fluttering in the wind. Visitors can often see monks walking clockwise around the stupa while reciting mantras.
• The Temple of the Living Goddess Kumari is a residence where a young girl, revered as an incarnation of the goddess Taleju Bhawani, resides. The palace temple is adorned with intricately carved wooden shutters and balconies. At specific times, the Kumari appears on the balcony to silently bless visitors before retreating from view.

‍Lost Kingdom of Lo

The Kingdom of Lo, better known as Upper Mustang, is one of Nepal's most mysterious and isolated places. Situated in the shadow of the Himalayas, north of Annapurna, it shares a border with Tibet. Until 1992, this region was closed to foreign tourists, which helped preserve its unique culture and way of life, remaining almost unchanged for centuries. Its capital, Lo Manthang, is an ancient city with fortress walls, a palace, and Buddhist monasteries. The region's landscape features harsh red cliffs, canyons, and mysterious caves.The people of Mustang are of Tibetan origin and have preserved their traditions, culture, and Buddhist rituals, including the colourful Tiji festival. Tourists must obtain special permission to enter the Lost Kingdom and follow designated routes as part of organised groups.In Nepal, you can also visit Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha, observe rare wildlife in Chitwan National Park, or enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the Himalayas and Lake Phewa in Pokhara. Routes to Annapurna or the Everest Base Camp are highly recommended for trekking enthusiasts.

Bhutan: Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon

Bhutan is a small but incredibly distinctive country nestled in the Himalayas. Spirituality permeates every aspect of life, and a trip here will leave an unforgettable impression. Its majestic mountains, the hospitality of the locals, and a deeply rooted philosophy of happiness will make your stay memorable.

‍Taktsang — "The Tiger's Nest"

‍Taktsang Monastery, perched on a cliff at an altitude of more than 3,000 metres, is the hallmark of Bhutan and one of the most sacred places for Buddhists. According to legend, Padmasambhava, who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan, meditated here. Following a mountainous route, you can reach the monastery on foot or by mule. Along the way, spin prayer wheels (khurde) and enjoy stunning views of the valleys and forests.

‍Paro

‍The city of Paro is the cultural heart of Bhutan and the gateway to the country's spiritual treasures. Paro Dzong, a majestic fortress monastery, stands surrounded by picturesque fields and rivers. The city itself, with its traditional architecture and charming streets, is perfect for getting acquainted with the lives of residents.

‍Thimphu

‍The capital of Bhutan, Thimphu, is a city where ancient traditions blend harmoniously with modernity. Here, you can see the Tashichho Dzong, the summer residence of the King, and visit the Chorten Memorial, where locals pray and make ritual rounds. Interestingly, Thimphu is the only capital in the world without traffic lights.

‍Punakha

‍Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan, is famous for its dzong, situated at the confluence of the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu rivers. Punakha Dzong is considered the most beautiful fortress monastery in the country and plays a significant role in Bhutan's religious life.

‍Phobjikha Valley

‍The Phobjikha Valley is a nature reserve where black-necked cranes winter, adding a special magic to the landscape. For nature lovers, the valley offers hiking trails with stunning views of forests and mountains.

Tibet: The roof of the world

Tibet is a region of China situated at an altitude of more than 4,000 metres, earning its nickname "The Roof of the World." Amidst snow-capped mountains and arid plateaus, Tibetan Buddhist culture is preserved in its full depth within monasteries such as Sera and Drepung in Lhasa, where Buddhist philosophy is studied. Other notable monasteries include Ganden, a centre for spiritual learning, and Tashilhunpo Monastery, the residence of the Panchen Lamas.

‍Lhasa

‍Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, is the spiritual and cultural heart of the region. It is home to the iconic Potala Palace, an architectural masterpiece and former residence of the Dalai Lamas, renowned for its grandeur and rich history. The Jokhang Temple, another significant site in Lhasa, attracts thousands of pilgrims each year who come to worship the revered statue of Shakyamuni Buddha.

‍Potala Palace

‍The Potala Palace is a symbol of Tibet and one of the most recognisable buildings in the world. Perched on Red Mountain, the palace is divided into the White and Red Palaces, each holding important spiritual and administrative roles. The interiors are adorned with frescoes, sacred texts, and statues that reflect Tibet’s thousand-year Buddhist heritage.

‍Namtso Lake

‍Namtso Lake, also known as the "Heavenly Lake," is one of the highest salt lakes in the world, located at an altitude of over 4,700 metres. It is considered a sacred site where pilgrims gather for purification and meditation.

‍Mount Kailash

‍Mount Kailash is one of the most venerated peaks in the world, held sacred by Buddhists, Hindus, Jains, and Bonpos. Its distinctive tetrahedral pyramidal shape, capped with snow, aligns almost perfectly with the four cardinal directions. Every year, countless pilgrims journey here to complete a kora—a ritual circumambulation of the 52-kilometre-long path around the mountain. The site symbolises the centre of the world and embodies spiritual purification.

‍Gyantse

‍Gyantse is a small town renowned for its historical monuments and traditional Tibetan culture. The Kumbum Stupa, a multi-tiered structure adorned with niches containing images of Buddha, is a remarkable feature of the town. Gyantse is also known for its tranquil atmosphere and the preservation of Tibetan customs.

India: The cradle of ancient civilisation

India is a country where you can feel the pulse of centuries-old history and culture among bustling bazaars and sacred temples. The nation is striking in its diversity: from the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the sun-drenched beaches of Goa, from the deserts of Rajasthan to the lush rainforests of Kerala. The vast expanses of the Himalayas stretch across northern India, encompassing the states of Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, as well as remote areas of Ladakh and West Bengal.

‍Sikkim offers panoramic views of Kangchenjunga (8,586 m), the third-highest mountain in the world. Nestled among its slopes are the Buddhist shrines of Rumtek and Pemayangtse, where prayer wheels fill the air with the melody of eternity.

‍Uttarakhand, known as the "Land of the Gods," is home to the sacred rivers Ganges and Yamuna. In the cities of Rishikesh and Haridwar, Hindus perform ablutions in the hope of spiritual purification. In the same state, within the Chamoli region, lies the Valley of Flowers National Park, which transforms into a vibrant carpet of blooms during summer.

‍Himachal Pradesh is renowned for the Shimla and Manali mountain resorts, where colonial buildings, ancient Hindu temples, and Buddhist monasteries are nestled among the snow-capped ridges. The Dalai Lama's official residence is Dharamshala, where he conducts services and delivers lectures for his followers.

In Arunachal Pradesh, the majestic Tawang Monastery is one of the largest Buddhist centres in Asia. The state is home to 82 distinct ethnic groups, most of which have maintained their traditional way of life, preserving customs and culture for centuries.

‍Jammu and Kashmir, often called "Paradise on Earth," is adorned with verdant valleys and the reflections of snow-capped mountains in the azure waters of serene lakes. With its dramatic desert landscapes, Ladakh captivates visitors with monasteries perched on rugged cliffs and turbulent rivers that attract adventure enthusiasts.

The northern part of West Bengal offers travellers morning mists over the picturesque tea plantations of Darjeeling and breathtaking views of the Himalayas from the region's rolling slopes.