Kathmandu (Nepal)

From Rap Star to Engineer to Young Mayor Demolishing Swaths of Kathmandu

A music idol in his early 20s and then an engineer, Balen, 33, next won an upset victory as mayor of Nepal’s capital, inspiring a wave of young politicians. Now, he’s tearing down parts of the city.

By Emily Schmall and Bhadra Sharma

Hikes and Hiking Himalayas Kathmandu (Nepal) Mount Everest Mountaineering Mountains National Parks, Monuments and Seashores Nepal

Nepal Will Ban Solo Hiking in Its National Parks

The move, which the country’s tourism board said would improve safety, follows an earlier ban on climbing alone in Nepal’s mountains.

By Jenny Gross