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Synopsis If the legendary land of Shangri-la existed anywhere on earth, it would be in the Kathmandu Valley. Nestled against the awesome Himalayas, the valley is an enchanting world of verdant forests filled with wildlife terraced emerald fields temples decorated with erotic stone carvings and mystical symbols, and towns colored by the constant sights and sounds of religious festivals. At the heart of it all is Nepal's capital, Kathmandu, the home of the country's benevolent king - and of a living goddess, Kumari. The king and the goddess are lingering symbols of the official creed of religious and racial tolerance that has enabled the gentle people of Nepal to live in harmony and has made Kathmandu a magnet for others from around the world who come in search of spiritual fulfillment. The Times Travel Library's Kathmandu paints an intimate portrait of this wondrous valley in more than 100 pages of dramatic photographs, stimulating prose, and informative features. Your journey to the Valley of Gods begins with a lively essay that captures its essence and a series of vignettes that focuses on some of its distinctive personalities, cultural quirks, art, history and more. The Back of the Book section is a comprehensive compendium of maps, walking and riding tours, trivia, best bets, offbeat attractions, suggestions and notes on essential travel information that will help you make the most of your trip to Kathmandu.