Undiscovered Nepal

In the southwestern region of Nepal there are no high mountain peaks to scale, just pristine rural villages and tribal cultures living undisturbed by tourism. This is the not so famous side of Nepal.

The Bardia Reserve is one of the last remaining habitats for the nearly extinct Bengal Tiger. Here Julie boards an elephant to search for the elusive cats and spends the night at the rustic Tiger Tops tented camp overlooking the river where she rafts the next morning.

In the country's capital, Kathmandu, Hindu and Buddhist temples are still the center of life. Cycling through stunning rural scenery and the ancient town squares of the Kathmandu Valley, reveals more on the intriguing culture that makes Nepal a true adventure travel destination.

TIPS for TRAVELERS to NEPAL

Try to spend some time in the countryside, or make a short visit to a Tharu village.

This area is more off the beaten path, so I would highly recommend contacting 800 670 MYTH or www.mythsandmountains.com to plan your trip. You can sign up for one of their scheduled tours, or ask them to plan an individual itinerary for you.

They are experts on Nepal and do a lot to give back to the country and it's people.

As I have said before, not to preach, but... as travelers, we all need to make responsible choices to protect these remaining special places on our earth, and hold ourselves and the tour operators accountable. Your money, spent with the right companies, sends a clear message to encourage protection of the environment and local people.

For more on Nepal, see the Trekking in Nepal episode.

Check out the iexplore Nepal Tours