Philippe Brown writes:

I first travelled to Nepal quite a while back, landing in Kathmandu sometime after the departure of the hippies (well, most of them) and the arrival of the Maoists. At that point the Himalayan kingdom was well known to the likes of Sir Edmund Hillary and others bent on conquering Chomolungma, "Mother Goddess of the Universe" – Everest, to those of us who don't know a col from a crampon. Trekkers also headed to the Khumbu and Annapurna regions to hike through every fold of the stunning mountain terrain.

Nepal is now officially a republic, but the reasons for visiting remain unchanged. Its astonishing beauty and sheer remoteness provide all the antidotes you need to the ills of frantic Western lifestyles. Imagine watching the first rays of dawn light hitting a legendary mountain. Gazing out from a ridge over a fishtail-shaped peak, warming your hands around a fresh cup of chai. Breathing in the crisp air as you walk high trails with friends or family. Learning Nepali songs and picking up fascinating snippets of natural history from your expert guides, chefs and porters. And of course everywhere the scenery is sublime, the culture rich and the hospitality warm and generous.

For the adventurous with the luxury of time, it's feasible to focus exclusively on the spectacular Annapurna Circuit. Or combine a section of that trek with a stay at a historic hotel in Kathmandu, then fly on to Lukla and hike up the Khumbu toward Namche Bazaar and Everest. And naturally the best way back is by raft, over the exhilarating rapids of the Bhote Kosi River.

The less-known Jaljale Himal Ridge trek is another of our favourites and a miraculously hidden jewel. Its pristine trails lead to wonderful cultural and spiritual encounters with Hindus, Tibetan Buddhists and remote tribespeople. You can do the entire trek or weave a shortened version into your other Himalayan adventures.

Wherever you head in Nepal, our handpicked support team ensures your safety and comfort all along the way. You spend each night either in a stunning mountain lodge or a traditional village inn appointed with all the comforts we know you'll appreciate. And once settled in, we'll introduce you to your host, often a local dignitary or chief, who'll welcome you to a traditional feast that typically turns into a party for the whole village – and a memory you'll carry with you forever.