Nepal (Lonely Planet, £12.99)

Squeezed between the Asian giants of India and China, Nepal is a land of contrasts.

From the soaring mountains of the Himalayas, to the fertile valleys of the south, from the bustling fume-filled streets of Khatmandu to the tranquil village life of nearby Bhaktapur, Nepal is constantly shifting and always surprising.

Even the people are a mixture some descend from the Mongoloids of the north, some the Caucasoids of the south. Nepal truly is a melting pot.

Whether you want to scale the heights on a Himalayan mountain trek or track tigers in one of the many national parks, this exotic destination has it all.

The Lonely Planet guide to the mountain kingdom is up to the publisher's usual high standards. With detailed maps, a comprehensive social and political history, up-to-the-minute information on prices and places to stay, it is an indispensable aid for any visitor.

Jim Collins