Trekking Not Required

Nepal—home to eight of the world's 14 tallest mountains—may be a favorite destination for climbers and extreme adventurers. But it is also becoming increasingly popular among those who prefer Egyptian cotton sheets and caviar to sleeping bags and protein bars, and whose idea of roughing it means giving up heated towel racks. Backpackers are now being joined by "luxury trekkers," who like to put in a full day on the Himalayan trails—but want every creature comfort the moment they walk off.

The Mountain Company runs trekking tours that utilize luxury lodges in Nepal's scenic Everest and Annapurna regions. Managing director Roland Hunter says luxury packages—which promise Western and local cuisine, down blankets and central heating—account for 15 percent of his business, and are growing (from $2,000 for 12 days; themountaincompany.co.uk).

Ker & Downey Nepal operates its own exclusive lodges and runs tours that minimize the amount of time travelers spend on the trail so they can fully enjoy the accommodations, which include hard-wood floors, drinks around a roaring fireplace and breakfast served on an outdoor patio beneath the peaks ($750 for six days; trekking-nepal.com).

Those keen to enjoy Nepal's mountains only as a backdrop—and wear slingbacks instead of crampons—have plenty of options among the growing ranks of five-star hotels. Most—including Le Meridien and the Hyatt Regency—are located in the capital, Katmandu, and feature topnotch dining and spa services with unbeatable views. Roughing it never felt so good.

© 2007