Trekking and rafting in Nepal

Trekking and rafting in Nepal

"It was a match made in heaven," says Forest Michaels, a 26-year-old New York City resident who discovered adventure outfitter Intrepid Travel last year while researching a trip with her brother. "I cannot say enough good things about the company."

Michaels booked Intrepid's 15-day Nepal Adventure, which goes for $700 plus a $200 local payment. The trip has one of the most varied itineraries I came across in my research. "It has a little bit of everything," says Jen Bird, communications manager for Intrepid. "A three-day walk in Kathmandu Valley, a short trek in the Siklis region, rafting the Trisuli River and relaxing by the lake on Pokhara. Many other trips to Nepal are focused on certain activities, whereas the Nepal Adventure offers a taste of it all."

"I really loved Intrepid's approach to travel as well as the respect the company seems to have for the local culture," adds Michaels. "They hire knowledgeable, pleasant guides who do a good job booking totally livable lodgings, and they are clear when you won't be staying in a palace. The group number is kept low so you don't feel like you're schlepping around the country in a really conspicuous way."

For hardcore adventurers, Intrepid's Everest Base Camp Nepal trek is another great bargain. It's a 15-day trip for $615, plus a $200 local payment. "This is one of our most challenging itineraries with a physical grade of five, our highest," says Jacquie Burnside, Intrepid's Vice President, Sales & Marketing. "It's one of those iconic journeys that stirs even the most die-hard of travelers."

Next>> Cycling in rural China