Modern Nepal traces its history as an independent Kingdom back to 1722 when Prithvi Narayan Shah started a war of attrition and expansion. For the next two centuries Nepal grew in power and tested its military strength with wars against centuries Nepal Tibet and Great Britain. With the fertile Kathmandu valley as its capital, and wealth from trans - Himalayan trading, the country developed a rich and vibrant culture. Throughout these years it remained closed to foreigners and it acquired a reputation as one of the mystery mountain kingdoms of the East.

From 1846 the country was ruled by a family of dictators, the Ranas, with the King as a puppet figure. The Ranas were overthrown in 1951 and the succession of King Mahendra in 1955 saw Nepal open its doors to the world. Sandwiched between two hungry major countries (China 'liberated' Tibet in 1950), the king did an adroit balancing act to ensure the survival of Nepal. But he ruled as an absolute monarch and the Rana family still retained much power: Nepal in the 1980's was notable as one of the poorest countries in the world, ruled by wealthy autocrats.

Pressures for democracy came to a head in 1990, with a huge protest by the 'Movement to restore democracy'. After further protests, and massacre of up to 200 people, this resulted in the King legalizing political parties, a new constitution, and parliamentary elections. The elections in 1991 brought the Nepalese Congress party to power with the king remaining as a constitutional monarch – one who is apparently still adored by most of his people.

The return to democracy was hearting but raised expectations that have not been realized by successive and different governments. Like most of the world, the poor have got poorer and 1998 saw some 'Maoist' terrorist activity against government buildings and officials in the remote and poorest areas of the country. Nepal remains still and very poor country (average annual income is quoted $260 a year) and faces huge economic difficulties. Tourism is one of the biggest sources of revenue and employment and so your holiday is help.