IN the past couple of years, Nepal has become a hot Chinese tourist destination. There are few countries on earth that can match Nepal's combination of spectacular scenery, exotic culture and hospitable people.

Along with the world's deepest canyon and eight of the world's 10 highest mountains, Nepal has steamy jungles and terraced valleys laced with ancient villages.

For many, trekking through the Himalayan country's awe-inspiring mountains is the main reason for a visit to Nepal.

And after trekking, if you want a true Nepali meal, dal bhat ¡ª spiced lentils, vegetables and rice ¡ª is the order of the day. Tibetan momo dumplings are also well worth trying.

Nepal is a great place to go shopping. Tanka (religious) paintings and Tibetan articles, such as prayer wheels or tea bowls and jewellery, are popular.

It's officially forbidden to export precious stones, gold or silver, but customs officials may not care about small pieces of silver jewellery, especially if you are wearing them.

Nepal's winters are brisk, but not too cold. Snow cuts off many of the mountain paths. By spring, they are open again, but the air is hazy. The monsoons, which are between June and September, affect the entire country.