Lonely Planet Nepal - Lonely Planet > Reviews (1)

We all know it, Lonely Planet is the bible for backpackers.
The Nepal guide is useful, containing extensive, comprehensive information on anything you can possibly think of and more. All the usual features like: what to take, border procedures etc. are in there and up to date. The good thing about this book is that it is not too big, so you can really take it anywhere without it being a real hassle.
It features a lot of good hotels, restaurants, warnings for scams etc.
However there are also substantial shortcomings: Because this book is "the bible", everybody has it and the idea that you will find a secret, amazing place without anybody else knowing about it does not exist. Everybody knows everything and everybody is there in these special places. Take Pokhara for example, from the sound of the book it seems to be the most beautiful place in Nepal, and only some travellers there. Unspoilt nature and culture. In fact it is one of the most overcrowded,unoriginal places I have been to in any continent. Lonely Planet does not warn you that Tourists outweigh the locals and the place is a filthy mixture of capitalism and absolute poverty.

However I would still buy a Lonely Planet any day, because of their excellent standard. But also go out off the beaten treck yourselves and explore!! One more thing I should mention is that it is only for Backpackers and budget travellers - if you are on a luxury holiday, better get a different book.