Pokhara

Pokhara is the only town in Nepal that could be described as a ‘resort’. Lying 123 miles (198km) west of the capital along the Prithvi Highway, it owes its popularity to the magical view of Machapuchare (literally ‘Fish Tail’) reflected in the glassy waters of the adjacent Phewa Tal lake.

Soak up this famous icy profile in a cafe on the lakeshore, or from the water on an evening boat cruise. Better still, climb to the Shanti Stupa (Peace Pagoda) overlooking the town for a truly jaw-dropping panorama of the Himalayan giants to the north, which soar from 3,280ft (1,000m) to 24,600ft (7,500m) in less than 30 km.