Nepal (Information and Tourism)

Nepal: Guidelines to get Nepal Visa

2012-09-19T10:34:00.003-07:00

Guidelines to get Nepal Visa

Nepalese Visa for tourism purpose is very easy to get and invites an absolute minimum of red-tapeism. Tourists of at least 50 different countries that are affiliated to the United Nations have the 'Visa on arrival' facility. The rest will have to procure the advance Visa from the Nepalese Embassy in their respective countries. Residents of many countries in Asia don't even require Visa. In spite of all these, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued the following Visa guidelines for the tourists: -

The foreign tourist visiting Nepal shall be granted the tourist visa.
The tourist visa shall be granted for a period in maximum of five months in a visa year.
A tourist who has departed before the expiry of the period specified in the visa issued in a visa year shall not be allowed to use the visa by adding the remaining period to another visa year.
If any foreigner who has entered into Nepal towards the end of a visa year desires to spend even the period during which he may stay in Nepal with the tourist visa of the other visa year, he may use such facility. Provided, however, that the computation of the fees for such period shall be made on the basis of the total period of his stay.
An application for the tourist visa has to be submitted in a particular format that can be obtained from the embassy or downloaded from the site http://www.tourism.gov.np

Travel Documents in Nepal

Traveling in Nepal is not as cumbersome as in some other countries. The visa guidelines are very lenient and so are the documentations. Nevertheless, following documents should be carried while traveling to Nepal: -

The valid passport and the Nepalese Visa
Documents certifying points of entry or exit
Duly filled and attested disembarkation and embarkation forms
Certification of arrival and departure
Documents permitting trekking and mountaineering
Identity and address proof
Return ticket if you are a tourist

Visa Fees and Requirements

The fee for a Single Entry Tourist Visa to Nepal for 60 days is US $60 or equivalent foreign currency
Additional $50 grants Multiple Entry Visas
Tourist visa can be extended for a maximum of 150 days. Visa extension free for 30 days is US $ 30
To apply for visa, you will also need a valid passport, and two passport size photos
Business Visa fee is US$ 100 for one year with multiple re-entry and US$ 250 for five years with multiple re-entry.

About Nepal and it's Tourism Sector

2012-09-18T01:42:00.000-07:00

Map of Nepal

As we know,
Nepal is a landlocked country in South Asia, situated between India and China. It is situated in the lap of the beautiful snow - capped Himalayas and is home to the world’s highest peak – Mt. Everest (Sagarmatha Himal). It is very beautiful country.

Tourism can be the best sector and scope in Nepal.

The topography of Nepal also houses the ‘Hills’ and the ‘Tarai’ or the plains. While the Himalayas cover approximately 15% of Nepal, the Hills and the Tarai make up for 65% and18% of Nepal respectively.

Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal and is a valley surrounded by hills. It is also one of the 75 districts of Nepal and falls within the Central Development Region of Nepal. Nepal has been divided to five developmental regions namely, Far-Western, Mid-Western, Western, Central and Eastern.

Nepal festival Losar

2012-09-18T01:38:00.000-07:00

Performing dancing during Losar

Festival of Nepal, Kathmandu:-
Losar (Tibetan: ལོ་གསར་, Wylie: lo-gsar is the Tibetan word for "new year." loholds the semantic field "year, age"; sar holds the semantic field "new, fresh". Losar is the most important holiday in Tibet.

Losar is celebrated for 15 days, with the main celebrations on the first three days. On the first day of Losar, a beverage called changkol is made from chhaang (a Tibetan cousin of beer). The second day of Losar is known as King's Losar (gyalpo losar). Losar is traditionally preceded by the five day practice of Vajrakilaya. Because the Uyghurs adopted the Chinese calendar, and the Mongols and

Tibetans adopted the Uyghur calendar,Losar occurs near or on the same day as the Chinese New Year and the Mongolian New Year, but the traditions of Losar are unique to Tibet, and predates both Indian and Chinese influences. Originally, ancient celebrations of Losar occurred solely on the winter solstice, and was only moved to coincide with the Chinese and Mongolian New Year by a leader of the Gelug school of Buddhism.

Losar is also celebrated by Yolmo, Sherpa, Tamang, Bhutia and also in Bhutan, although different regions in the country have their own respective new year. Losar is also celebrated by Tibetan Buddhists Worldwide.

Nepal Tourism: Rolwaling Trekking

2012-09-18T01:35:00.002-07:00

Rolwaling trekking is yet unspoiled trekking trail, located in the eastern part of Nepal, which is close to the Everest region. No doubt that the Rolwaling trekking provides an experience to the remoteness of this region and the romantic mountain views, diverse flora and fauna and rich local cultures.

Trekking in the Rolwaling region is one of the best trekking trails in Nepal, lies at the west of of the Khumhu. This high valley Rolwaling—is also called “the grave" due to its isolated terrain, which is buried down between steep ice-giants. Tourists can explore the majestic mountain views and beautiful waterfalls, Tso Rolpa Lake, monasteries and landscapes, as the trekking route leads through the remote and beautiful picturesque Sherpa, Tamang and Chhetri village and through the dense, gloomy primeval forest and over broad bridge with wonderful views.

Rolwaling trekking offers fascinating experience, which starts from Barabise, passes Tinsang la pass and descends Bigu Gomba which houses the Buddhist nuns. The trail descends down to the Bhotekosi river and turns into the Rollwaling valley, one of the most remote, mysterious, and fascinating places in the Rolwaling trekking route. The land is full of the tales of the yeti--the mysterious snow man in the world-- and it is the place where some mountaineers arranged expedition to hunt yetis in the past. Subsequently, we reach at Na Gaun passing Beding, then we ascend up through the grass-covered valley to Tso Rolpa then traversing the moraine on the north side we route up to Pachhermo peak (6,273m), we have scenic views of Mt. Gaurishankar (7,145m), Mt. Melungtse (7,181m) and other mountains lying around the area and its landscapes. The Beding village (3,690m), the monastery, the Na village (4,183m) and Tso Rolpa lake are the main attractions of Rolwaling trekking route. After making excursion to the area, we then descend down to Thame, from where the route along Bhote Kosi river leads to Namche Bazaar and subsequently to Lukla, from there we catch plane and fly back to Kathmandu.

Rolwaling Trekking Route

Lukla/Gokyo Peak/Pachermo/Rolwaling

The trekking to Lukla, Gokyo peak, pachermo and Rolwaling provides an excellent and fascinating trekking experience to them, who wishes to round up to the peaks at the meantime have excellent scenic views of majestic Himlalayas in the Everest region. Lukla, (the heartland of Sherpa community), panoramic views ....

Duration: 24 Days

Grade: Strenuous+

Altitude: 6200M

Ramdung Go

Ramdung Go trekking in Rolwaling region is yet unspoiled trekking trail, located in the eastern part of Nepal. The trekking to the region provides an experience to the remoteness of this region and the romantic mountain views, diverse flora and fauna and rich local cultures. Trekking in the Ramdung Go Rolwaling region ...

Duration: 17 Days

Grade: Strenuous+

Altitude: 5925m

Rolwaling Pachermo/Lukla

Rolwaling, Pachermo and Lukla trekking is one of the popular trekking trails in recent days in Nepal, as it provides an excellent and fascinating trekking experience to them, who wishes to round up to the snowcapped peaks at the meantime have excellent scenic views of majestic Himlalayas lying around ....

Duration: 17 Days

Grade: Strenuous+

Altitude: 6200m

Nepal Tourism: Mt. Langtang Trekking

2012-09-18T01:32:00.004-07:00

Langtang trekking is the third most popular trekking region in Nepal. It is one the most loved trekking route among the tourists who come in contact with Yatra Himalaya. The trekking in Langtang region combines the one of the remote and spectacular valleys in Nepal, along with the high mountain lake- Gosainkund and the beautiful valley called Helambu. Langtang Gosainkunda trekking, Langtang valley trekking, Langtang and Helambu trekking, Helambu valley trekking, are some of the prime areas that are most commonly visited and are situated in the north of Katmandu. Langtang is a narrow valley that lies at the south of the Tibetan border. It is sandwiched between the main Himalayan range to the north and a slightly lower range of snowy peaks to the south. Langtang Lirung (7246m) lies to the north; Gang Chhenpo(6388m) and Naya Kanga ri (5846m) lie to the south and Dorje Lakpa(6966m) at the East of the Valley.

Langtang trekking begins from the lower Langtang valley, through the forests and along with the Sherpa villages and farmlands of the people. Many villagers are originally from Tibet. Once this route was an important trading route with Tibet, therefore, most of the villagers and peoples here still are involved in trade. On the way of trekking, one can have a trek through Langtang National Park. But, wildlife is not easy to spot in a forest setting, we also have chance to see some wild animals and birds. Among them are the monkeys, musk deer, Pika and the national bird of Nepal, the colorful Danphe. We continue our Trekking to Kyangjin Gompa (3,740 m), which is the site of the Yala Cheese Factory. There is an airstrip at Chhaldang to Kathmandu, a short distance east of Kyangjin. While our visit to the Yala Cheese Factory, we can have a view of small lakes beyond Yala, where we reach within half a day walk from Kyangjin Gompa.

There is Kyangin Gompa located on the top of the valley, where we stop overnight and visit the local yak cheese factory and have a view of the glaciers, which is also a gateway to Tibet and we return back to Syabru village and make a trip to Sing Gompa, a place where the holy lake Gosainkund is situated and we cross the Llaurebena Pass (4610m), and continue south leaving the Langtang region and reach at Helambu valley and subsequently at Chisapani and return back to Kathmandu.

Langtang Trekking Route

Langtang Valley Trekking

Langtang valley trekking is also one of the most popular trekking areas in Nepal, situated in the north of Katmandu. The trekking offers a multitude of trekking destinations. Langtang valley lies at the south of the Tibetan border, is sandwiched between the main Himalayan range to the north and a slightly ...

Duration: 11 Days

Grade: Moderate

Altitude: 4984m

Gosainkunda Pass Trekking

Gosainkunda pass trekking is situated close to the Tibetan border and remote valley enclosed by snow-capped mountains that ends in the peak of Langtang Lirung (7246m). No doubt that since the Gosainkunda pass trekking offers superb Himalayan views including of Langtang lirung, Dojre lakpa, Gaurishanker ...

Duration: 08 Days

Grade: Strenuous

Altitude: 4984m

Helambu Trekking

Helambu trekking is another popular trekking trail in Langtang region. The trekking in the area offers an opportunity to explore ancient villages, a wide range of animals such as, red pandas, pika, , musk deer, Himalayan black bear, Himalayan Tahr, ghoral, serow, rhesus monkey and common langur ....

Duration: 08 Days

Grade: Moderate

Altitude: -

Sundarijal - Gosainkunda - Langtang Trekking

Sundarijal-Gosainkunda-Langtang trekking is recently explored trekking route, but since this trekking route gives spectacular views of the mountains-Langtang (7245m), Ganesh Himal (7405m), Dorje Lhakpa (6990m) to name a few, the clients who come in contact with Yatra Himalayas have much liked this reout ...

Duration: 13 Days

Grade: Strenuous

Altitude: 3800m

Nepal Tourism: Mt. Manaslu Trekking

2012-09-18T01:30:00.002-07:00

Manaslu Trekking is a well-known and well-loved trekking as that provides perfect views of mountains, combination of rich cultural heritage, genuine adventure, incomparable beauty and biological variety. Mt. Manaslu [8163m] is the eight highest peaks in the world, was opened for the trekking purpose only in 1992. It is located near to the border of Nepal and Tibet. The name Manaslu means "The spirit-mountain", the local dialects refer it to be the benevolent and strong deity that dwells within. This is one of the most challenging, untouched but most demanded trekking destinations among the tourists who come in contact of Yatra Himalaya that lies in western part of Nepal. Manaslu Trekking is a well-loved trekking routes providing with pristine mountain views, rich culture and genuine adventure sum up the trek experience around the Mt. Manslu(8156 m).

Manaslu trekking provides spectacular beauty along the border of Nepal and Tibet and is a controlled trekking route, allowing organized trekking groups special permits is required through the Government registered trekking company of Nepal to entrance in Manaslu trekking region to venture round its spectacular circuit. No doubt that the trekking in Manaslu region is one of the most delightful adventures. If you would like to experience both extremes of the trekking in Nepal and willing to see the most breath-taking scenery of mountain on earth, then make a mind to have trekking in the Manaslu circuit via Larkya La, where you can see that the Tibetan community are residing at Nupri, the north of Manaslu on the head of the Budi Gandaki. This is one of the most spectacular treks in the Himalaya. The area offers a good mix of cultural diversity and fantastic mountain scenery.

Manaslu Trekking Route:

Round Manaslu Trekking

Ce trek est l’un des plus spectaculaires de l’Himalaya et la région offre un bon mélange de diversité culturelle et vues fantastiques de haute montagne. Pendant le trek, le Manaslu et le Ganesh apparaissent dans le lointain comme une gigantesque barrière de montagnes dentelées et scintillantes,

Duration: 13/15 Days

Grade: Strenuous

Altitude: 5216M

Col de Singla

Sing-la pass trekking lying in the Ganesh himal region has been one of the demanded trekking route as it is designed to introduce you to a broad spectrum of lives of diverse ethnic communities, whose cultural, social lifestyles and customs are completely blended with beautiful landscapes ...

Duration: 14 Days

Grade: Strenuous

Altitude: 4100m

Tsum Valley Trekking

La vallée interdite de Tsum a été récemment (+/- 2008) ouverte aux visiteurs. Elle est située dans la région transhimalayenne de Gorkha. Cette vallée cachée est un pèlerinage himalayen sacré dû à son isolation et son inaccessibilité. Elle est entourée par les Baudha Himal et Himal Chuli à l’ouest,

Duration: 22 Days

Grade: Strenuous

Altitude: 3800m

Nepal Tourism: Adventure Mustang Trekking

2012-09-18T01:28:00.006-07:00

Mustang trekking has been one of the popular trekking destinations in later days in Nepal. It is relatively easy trekking along the permitted route to Lo Manthang that lies in the very heart of Mustang—the best preserved destination restricting tourists travel. The trek to Mustang is through an almost treeless barren landscape and a barren moonscape of eroded sandstone pillars and discontinuous moraine terraces, which together present a colorful mosaic made up principally of earthen reds, yellows and brown color mosaic. Mustang trekking is one of Nepal 's most mysterious and least known kingdoms, where we can explore a weird and wonderful landscape of eroded conglomerate cliffs, colored by natural earth pigments - reds, yellows, browns and blues. It is really a picturesque like a white painted villages and Tibetan monasteries, which set against a backdrop of the distant snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. No doubt that you will have an unforgettable journey to this heart once forbidden Kingdom.

Since Mustang is shadow of the Himalaya, Mustang has much less rain then the rest of Nepal. It is one of the few places in the world that has long-lived and a very close-niche life, as it has remained inaccessible to outsiders. This isolation helped the people of Mustang to maintain their lifestyle and heritage that remained almost unchanged for centuries. Hidden behind the majestic Himalayan ranges of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, Mustang is filled with beautiful trekking zones. The tourists require permits to visit this region. Yatra Himalaya has long been organizing trekking to the area, as it is one of authorized trekking agencies.

We begin our trek across the foothills of the Himalayas from Pokhara, where we take either flight or bus from Kathmandu. We pass through the small villages, terraced hillsides, rhododendron and bamboo forests, ascending to Ghorapani and Poon Hill for splendid dawn views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. At Tatopani--famous for its hot springs, we enter the spectacular Kali Gandaki river valley, the deepest gorge in the world. The mighty Kali Gandaki River passes between the mountains of Annapurna 1 and Dhaulagiri, both over 8000 m high. The Kali Gandaki valley was the main trading route with Tibet and the system of lodges and tea-houses here is well developed.

The Thakali people who inhabit this area are renowned for their hospitality and for being obliging hosts. Our trail follows the Kali Gandaki river valley from the Hindu lowlands in the south to the Buddhist villages and people in the upper valley. At Tukche we head off the main trail and head to the spectacular Dhaulagiri icefall, from where we can have superb views of the icefall and across the deep valley to Annapurna. Subsequently, we continue to the north and finally we reach to the Mustang, where we make trips to the area and explore the places lying alongside and descend down to Muktinath—famous temples and make excursion to the base of Thorung La Pass and descend down to Jomsom and we catch flight to Pokhara and fly back to Kathmandu.

Mustang Trekking Route

Mustang “Lo Manthang”

Lo Manthang La region trekking is one of the best preserved destinations restricting tourists travel. The trek the region is to have trekking through an almost treeless barren landscape and a barren moonscape of eroded sandstone pillars and discontinuous moraine terraces, which together present a colorful mosaic ....

Duration: 16 Days

Grade: Strenuous

Altitude: 4800M

Teji Festival in Lho Manthang

The Teji festival is a three-day ritual known as "The chasing of the Demons" and it is centered on the Teji myth. Teji tells the story of a deity named Dorje Jono who must battle against his demon father to save the Kingdom of Mustang from destruction.

Duration: 10 Days

Grade: Moderate

Altitude: 3900M

Nepal Tourism: Mt. Makalu Trekking

2012-09-18T01:26:00.001-07:00

Makalu trekking is one of the popular trekking destinations in Nepal. Mt. Makalu (8463m) is the fifth highest peak in the world. There are various other mountains Mt. Chamlang (7319 m), Mt. Baruntse (7129m) to name a few stretched over 40 km along with Mt. Makalu, which lies at the eastern part of the country and is protected by the Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Project. The park was established in 1992, which covers altogether 2330 sq km. Makalu trekking does not only offer a remarkable sceneries of the mountains but also the varieties of flora and fauna, the plants of all major ecological zones, tropical, sub-tropical, temperate, alpine and sub-alpine that are found in the national park, is considered the home to a rich variety of wildlife.

Mt. Makalu

This trekking is also a natural paradise that includes the beautiful mountains, pristine forest, and a wide variety of plants, animal life and the simple and warm hearted people local people with rich and varied customs. This is considered to be the low altitude trekking, mostly centered at Arun Valley, the eastern part of Nepal. The valley that holds a mighty Arun River and dense forest that is contrasted with the terraced slopes, where you also can see that diverse tribal groups residing in unity and the Makalu-Barun National Park, an important conservation area of many species, which are on the verge of extinct. Makalu trekking is a well-loved trekking routes among the clients of Yatra Himalaya.

The trekking begins from Tumlingtar, where we reach by direct flight from Kathmandu. From Tumlingtar we head to Manebhanjyang Crossing Tumlingtar, we reach at valleys, where many ethnic communities inhibit who have long preserved their culture. Trekking route passes through the lush forest, sub-tropical valley, flora and fauna, natural showcase and scenic views of the majestic Himalayas. Subsequently to proceed the out journey to chinchilla and then to Num, Seduwa, Tashingaon, Khongma, Mumbuk and we finally reach at Neh Kharka and take a rest for acclimatization, once we are ready with the altitude, we proceed our trekking to Yak Kharka and then finally we reach at Makalu base camp, where we rest and explore the scenes of this less explored areas and then after all we return back to Neh Kharka and then to Mumbuk, subsequently to Khogma, Seduwa, and then at Num, Chichilla and Manebhanjyan and finally we come back to Tumlingtar and fly back to Kathmandu.

Facts of Trip
Destination:	Makalu
Season:	Autumn, Spring
Highest Altitude	4800m
Grade:	Strenuous
Transportation:	Plane
Accommodation:	Camping Trek
Trek Duration:	21 Days

Itinerary
Day 01.	Arrival in Kathmandu. Transfer to Hotel.
Day 02.	Visit in Kathmandu
Day 03.	Fly to Tumlingtar and camp (937m)
Day 04.	Tumlingtar trek to Manebhanjyang (5h-1100m)
Day 05.	Manebhanjyang trek to Chichilla (6h-1900m)
Day 06.	Chichilla trek to Num (6h-1400m)
Day 07.	Num trek to Seduwa (6h-1400m)
Day 08.	Seduwa trek to Tashigaon (3h-2200m)
Day 09.	Tashigaon trek to Khongma (7h-3875m)
Day 10.	Khongma trek to Mumbuk (6h-3300m)
Day 11.	Mumbuk trek to Neh Kharka (6h-4000m)
Day 12.	Rest day/ acclimatization day
Day 13.	Neh Kharka trek to Yak Kharka (5h-4400m)
Day 14.	Yak Kharka trek to Makalu base camp (5h-4800m)
Day 15.	Rest day
Day 16.	Makalu BC trek to Neh Kharka (6h)
Day 17.	Neh Kharka trek to Mumbuk (5h)
Day 18.	Mumbuk trek to Khongma (6h)
Day 19.	Khongma trek to Seduwa (6h)
Day 20.	Seduwa trek to Num (6h)
Day 21.	Num trek to Chichilla (6h)
Day 22.	Chichilla trek to Manebhanjyang (5h)
Day 23.	Manebhanjyang trek to Tumlingtar (5h)
Day 24.	Fly to Kathmandu
Day 25.	Free day in Kathmandu
Day 26.	Depart

Cost Include

Transportation as per mentioned in the program traveling by flight
Complete full board trekking in lodge to lodge (Tea House) (except the beverage
An English-speaking guide and necessary helper guides (Sherpas) (French speaking guide for necessary)
One porter for 2 persons
National Park Fee, TIMS card
Four night hotel in Kathmandu
Nepali staff insurance

Cost Exclude

Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu
Any expenses caused by reason beyond our control such as roadblock due to natural climates and accidents and unforeseen events. Etc…
Personal insurance (medical / repatriation of the participants)
Personal trekking equipment (sleeping bags etc)
Airport Tax and tips for trekking staff.
Drinking water, alcohol, hot shower for during a trekking
Visa fee

Nepal Tourism: Mt. Kanchenjunga Trekking

2012-09-18T01:24:00.002-07:00

Mt. Kanchenjunga

Kanchenjunga trekking is one of the most thrilling trekking destination in Nepal is hardly found elsewhere else in the world. It is one of the unspoiled trekking trails in eastern part of Nepal, as it was opened only in 1988 for trekkers. Mt. Kanchenjunga (8586m) is the world’s third highest mountain offers a varieties of landscapes, cultures and panoramic views of Himalayas including the Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga itself, the four of the worlds five highest mountains, therefore, the trekking in this route makes the trek rewarding. Mt. Kanchenjunga lies on the border of Nepal and Sikkim (India).

Kanchenjunga area is the inhabitant of Sherpas who have different culture and tradition from those of Solukhumbu district. Rais, Chhetris, Brahmans are other ethnic group of this region. Monasteries, chhortens, temples, prayer walls are the representation of this area. Following the trekking route, blue sheep are mostly found here and it is also believed that the abominable snow man ‘YETI’ exist in the region. With this all the features, Kanchenjunga trekking has been the most popular trekking destination among the tourists who come in contact with Yatra Himalaya. Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project (KCAP) is spread in an area of 2,035 sq. km and is a rich diversity of wildlife including snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, musk deer red panda and others varies species of birds including Amphibian, pheasant, red-billed blue among others.

The Kanchenjunga trekking begins from Suketar Taplejung, which is accessible by air, or from Basantapur which is accessible by road. The route passes through the lush of rhododendron forests and climb on the high alpine terrain beyond the village of Ghunsa. Throughout the route, you will have to view the astounding sceneries of Kanchenjunga south face. Subsequently, we head to Lapsung La pass, Selele pass and trek on the Yalung Glacier and finally we reach at Kanchenjunga base camp. Subsequently, exploring the area, we return to Taplejung and then return to Kathmandu.

Kanchenjunga Trekking Route

Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trekking

Kanchenjunga south base camp trekking is also one of the popular tourist destinations in Nepal. Mt. Kanchenjunga (8586 m), the third highest mountain in the world is one the unspoiled trekking trails in eastern part of Nepal, as it was opened only in 1988 for trekkers. The trekking to the south base camp offers ....

Duration: 16 Days

Grade: Strenuous

Altitude: 4900M

Kanchenjunga North Camp Trekking

Kanchenjunga north base camp trekking is also one of the most loved destinations among the tourists who come in contact with Yatra Himalaya. Mt. Kanchenjunga (8586 m), the third highest mountain in the world is still unspoiled trekking trails, lies in the eastern part of Nepal. It was opened only in 1988 ....

Duration: 22 Days

Grade: Strenuous

Altitude: 4900m

Nepal Tourism: Dhaulagiri Trekking

2012-09-18T01:22:00.000-07:00

Dhaulagiri Trekking is one of the most popular and the most challenging trekking in Nepal. Dhaulagiri is the sixth highest mountain in the world with 8,167 m height. No doubt, you will have the most exciting experience from the trekking and be enchanted with the scenes of the area.

Dhaulagiri Mountain

Dhaulagiri round trekking begins from Kathmandu to Beni by bus, from Beni, we set out trekking on foot. In between, we happen to cross many cultivated fields, forests and villages, where various ethnic groups reside, namely, Gurung, Chhetri, and Magar etc. and after few days trip, we reach at Italian base camp, from where we can see the exciting views of Dhaulagiri I, II, III, IV& V. we will have a rest for few days for acclimatize with the altitude.

Once we are ready, we head on to Dhaulagiri north base camp, and continue our trek to the French pass [5,240 m] and Thapa pass [5,155 m]. In between we can encounter semi-wild yak herds, mountain sheep or the elusive snow leopard etc and we also can see the views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Throng peak, Annapurna and Kali Gandaki River; the world deepest gorge. Subsequently, we descend down to Marpha, a popular city of Mustang district, which is situated between majestic mountain of Annapurna, Nilgiri and Machhapuchhare, and then we reach at Tatopani [hot-water in Nepali], where we can have a bath as well. From Tatopani, we ascend down to Pokhara and then finally back to Kathmandu.

Dhaulagir Trekking Route

Round Dhaulagiri Trekking

Round Dhaulagiri trekking is highly demanded trekking destinations among the tourists who come in contact with Yatra Himalaya. The trekking to the area is considered to be the most challenging trekking in Nepal. Dhaulagiri is the sixth highest mountain in the world with 8,167 m height ....

Duration: 16 Days

Grade: Strenuous+

Altitude: 5300M

Nepal tourism: Annapurna Trekking

2012-09-18T01:19:00.002-07:00

Annapurna trekking is one of the most popular and best trekking trails in Nepal. It is the best area for having panoramic views of eye-catching Himalayan scenery, relaxed walking on well-defined Annapurna trails and quality local trekking lodges, which make Annapurna trekking one of the best trekking routes in the country and has been paradise for trekkers.

Annapurna trekking has been wildly recognized as a paradise for nature lovers. Annapurna trekking offer an spectacular views of a number of Himalayas including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Fishtail and landscape, wild animals, Monasteries as well as mixed cultural trekking tour. In the trail, there are various in the region for having trekking destination such as around Annapurna trekking, Annapurna circuit trekking, Annapurna base camp trekking, Jomsom Muktinath trekking, Kali Gandaki valley trekking, Ghorepani Poon hill trekking, Ghandrung Annapurna sanctuary trekking, Mardi Himal trekking, Narphu valley trekking, Tilicho pass trekking, Annapurna Thorung la pass trekking, Royal trekking, panchase trekking , Siklish trekking, Mustang trekking, Jomsom trekking, Dhaulagiri trekking, Dhaulagiri base camp trekking.

These above mentioned features in Annapurna Trekking region have helped for making well admired and well-liked trekking routs by the trekkers. The trekkers can not only see the scenic views of high Himalayas but also the snow leopards, blue sheep and other species of the birds namely kokla, blood pheasant etc, butterflies and insects, because, the upper sub-alpine grassland of the Annapurna region harbors these some of the rare species of the earth. Furthermore, the native plants can also be found in this forest, therefore the government of Nepal also has declared the conservation area and launched Annapurna conservation projects as well in the region, especially to conserve the varieties of orchids and rhododendron apart from the species of birds and animals and sensitize local people residing alongside.

Annapurna trekking trail no doubt is the most popular trekking for Nepal travelers, as because, you can have panoramic sceneries of Himalayas, including of the Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m), Mt. Annapurna I (8091m) Mt. Manaslu (8163 m), Mt. Annapurna II (7937 m.) , Mt. Annapurna III (7555m), Mt. Annapurna IV (7525m), Mt. Annapurna south (7219m), Mt. Nilgiri (7041m), Mt. Fishtail also called Mt. Machhapuchhare (6998m), Mt. Hiunchuli (6441m), Mt. Lamjung Himal (6986m),Tukuche peak (6920m), Tilicho peak (7134m). Furthermore, there are the settlements of diverse communities such as Bramin, Chhetree, Tibetian sherpa, Thakali, magars, Tamang, Gurung. Subsequently, it is the trail which is rich in wild animals such as Mountain Thair/ Goat, Leopards, Jackal, birds such as pheasant, long-tail birds among others.

Annapurna trekking is easily accessible, hotels in the hills are plentiful, and treks here offer good scenery of both high mountains and lowland villages. There are many options to reach around the Annapurna destination, you can take direct tourist bus or by flight to Pokhara or Jomsom and by bus to Beshishar, from where your trekking begins to the Annapurna trekking tour. It is possible to extend your trip from Pokhara to Chitwan National Park either by vehicle or Trisuli River Rafting for Nepal for Jungle Safari. We Yatra Himalaya team arrange all Annapurna trekking destinations as per the requirement of the trekkers and their schedule. Yatra Himalaya arranges Annapurna trekking tour either that is tea house or camping or tented trekking that maybe private or group joined with friends, Family , relative , student in huge or small group as per the demands of the clients’ desire and holiday schedule.

Annapurna Trekking Route

Annapurna Santuary Trekking

Annapurna Sanctuary Trekking is no doubt one of the outstanding trekking, which lies on the hill of Annapurna south. The rout is specially designed for those trekkers who love to enjoy the flora and fauna and panoramic view of the Himalayan range ...

Duration: 12 Days

Grade: Moderate

Altitude: 4130M

Trip Detail

Around Annapurna Trekking

Annapurna circuit or around Annapurna trekking is one of popular trekking trail in the Annapurna region, where you can see and enjoy with the panoramic scenes of Himalayas, including the Mt. Dhaulagiri 8167m, Mt. Annapurna I (8091m), Mt. Manaslu (8163), Mt. Annapurna II (7937m) , Mt. Annapurna III(7555m) ...

Duration: -

Grade: Strenuous

Altitude: 5416M

Trip Detail

Round Annapurna via Thorong la pass Trekking

Round Annapurna via Thorong la pass trekking is one of the classic and one of most challenging and a long trek. One of interesting features of the area is that we can have view of a new spectacular mountain every other day, right from the first day of trek to the last day. Furthermore, another the most exciting attraction ....

Duration: 17 Days

Grade: Strenuous

Altitude: 5416M

Trip Detail

Mustang Gate Trekking

Mustang gate trekking has been one of the popular trekking destinations in later days in Nepal. It is relatively easy trekking along the permitted route to Lo Manthang that lies in the very heart of Mustang—the best preserved destination restricting tourists travel. The trek to Mustang is through an almost treeless ...

Duration: 11 Days

Grade: Moderate

Altitude: 3750M

Trip Detail

Siklis Trekking

Siklis trekking has been one of most demanded and loved trekking areas among the Yatra Himalayas clients, as it is one of the picturesque treks that unfolds the natural beauty in Nepal. The charming villages, intriguing patterns of terraced fields, rhododendron forest and high alpine meadows nestled below ....

Duration: 12 Days

Grade: Moderate

Altitude: 2500M

Trip Detail

Annapurna Terai Trekking

Annapurna Tarai Trekking has been one of the newly explored routes to give tourists a taste of the mountains, hills and Terai—the plain area at once. Terai is a lowland tropical and subtropical belt of flat, alluvial land stretching along the Nepal-India border, and parallel to the Hill Region, which is the richest ....

Duration: 10 Days

Grade: Moderate

Altitude: 2000M

Trip Detail

Naar Phu, Tilicho Trekking

Naar Phu, Tillicho Trekking is newly opened trekking in Annapurna region. It was opened for the trekkers only in 2003. This trekking has been considered one of the best routes for trekking especially for viewing the majestic mountains in the high land. It is one of the demanded trekking routes among the clients of Yatra ....

Duration: 17 Days

Grade: Strenuous

Altitude: 5300M

Trip Detail

Nepal: Everest Trekking with Route

2012-09-18T01:17:00.001-07:00

Trekking in the Everest region is the most popular trekking among the trekkers, as there are spectacular and majestic mountains. The Everest region is located in the north-east of Nepal. Everest trek is not only a famous destination for tourists in Nepal alone but also for its scenic views of the highest peak of the world, the Mt. Everest [8,848m] along with other peaks, and also well known for the loyalty and friendliness of its inhabitants [The Sherpas].

Mount Everest

Everest trekking offers a great opportunity to have unique trekking experience. The Everest trekking areas or the Solu Khumbu region is protected by the Sagarmatha National Park, established in 1976 covering an area of 1148 square kilometers. Throughout the Mt. Everest trekking region, trekkers are overwhelmed with the views of unbelievable peaks, Buddhist monasteries, and friendly Sherpa villages.

Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world, which is known in Nepal as "Sagarmatha" the goddess mother of the world, has always been the greatest attraction for nature lovers and trekkers equally. Solukhumbu, the heartland of the Sherpa is one of the popular destinations for adventurers in Nepal. The geography of the Everest trekking area covers with the rugged rocky valleys, alpine forests and meadows, neat Sherpa Villages, Glaciers and icefalls. Everest trekking is arguably the most famous trekking route in the world and is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see some of the most breathtaking scenery.

Everest region offer different spectacular trekking trail such as Everest base camp trekking, Kala-pattar trekking, Gokyo Ri Trekking, Gokyo Cho la pass trekking, Renjo la pass trekking, Everest high pass trekking, Everest view trekking, Everest panorama trekking, Everest comfort trekking, Jiri Everest base camp trekking, Everest base camp trekking and Island peak climbing, Everest high pass trekking, Gokyo valley Tyangboche trekking, Mera peak climbing and Amphu lapcha pass trekking , Everest balcony trekking among others.

The Solu Khumbu Himalayan region is justifiably famous, not only for its proximity to the world's highest mountain (8848 m.), but also for its Sherpa villages and the wild animals and monasteries. The primary goal of the Everest region trekking is the Everest base camp located at the elevation of about 5340 meters. But it is quiet impossible to see Mt Everest from the Everest base camp, so most trekkers climb up to the Kala Pattar, (5545m) on the southern flank of Mt. Pumori (7145 m). From kala pattar one can see the close views of Mt. Everest and a number of other mountains such as Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Nuptse , Mt. Amadablam , Mt. Pumori , Mt. Thamserku , Mt.Kantega, Kwangde peak among others.

Generally, tourists may fall an acute high altitude sickness, therefore the trekking in Everest region is the most challenging treks in Nepal. While many of the routes through the mountains are arduous, there are ample places to rest and enjoy a meal along the way. But, you need not worry on it, if you are with the Yatra Himalaya, as it has in depth experience to operate different trekking destination in Everest region.

Among of them--the Everest base camp trekking, Gokyo trekking, Gokyo cho la pass trekking, Gokyo Everest base camp trekking, Everest base camp and kala-pattar trekking, Gokyo valley cho-la pass Everest base camp trek which are the most popular trekking route in Khumbu Himalaya region that it offers to its clients. We also provide short trekking around such as Namche Bazaar, the headquarters of Khumbu region; Khumjung or Thame region trekking the Sherpa villages; Tyangboche Monastery are the one that it operates trekking frequently.

Yatra Himalaya arranges all kinds of trekking destinations and adventurous activities in Everest region as per the demand of clients and their holiday schedule either that be tea house or camping or tented trekking in private or group join basis involved with family, friends, relatives in large or small group in size our professional trekking guide are committed to impart the lifetime experience to all tourists.

Even if you are not physically fit, you can have other adventurous activities along the Everest region. You can have a look on the indigenous culture of Sherpa villages, take snaps of monasteries that are over thousand years old, you either can choose to have short treks in along the Namche Bazaar, beautiful Khumjung village and Thame, and famous Tyangboche [a famous monastery], from where you can easily can have snaps of Mt. Everest, adjoining Himalayas namely Ama Dablam, Nupse, Lotse etc. The trekking is possible in this area the whole year round, the best times to visit are from the beginning of March to mid May and from the beginning of September to mid November.

Here are the details of itineraries you can choose, as per your time, desire and physical fitness.

Everest Trekking Route

Gokyo and Kalapathar Trekking

Gokyo and Kalapathar trekking is one of the most visited and popular trekking trail in Everest region, as it offers a panoramic views of the mountains lying from north to the south in the region, including of the world’s highest mountain—the Mt. Everest. The trekking in the region provides scenic views of whole ...

Duration: 15 Days

Grade: Moderate

Altitude: 5550M

Gokyo Lake/Chola pass/Kalapathar Trekking

Gokyo Lake and Chola pass Trekking is one of the frequently organized trekking routes by Yatra Himalaya. The Gokyo Lake or Chola pass Trekking begins from Kathmandu to Jiri by Bus or direct flight by mountain airstrip to Lukla, the heart of the Everest Region, then around three hours walk from the airport we reach ...

Duration: 14 Days

Grade: Moderate

Altitude: 5550M

Everest Base Camp Trekking

Everest base camp trekking is most popular trekking trail in Everest region, as it offers a unique and unforgettable experience with awesome views of the world’s highest and most beautiful mountains Mt. Everest. Everest Base Camp has been famed from when Sir Edmund Hilary and Tenjing Norgay Sherpa made ...

Duration: 12 Days

Grade: Moderate

Altitude: 5550M

Nangpala and Everest Base Camp Trek

Nangpala valley in the Everest region or the trekking to the Nangpala combined with the Everest base camp trekking route has been one of the demanded trekking routes in recent days. This circuit no doubt requires special permit as it is on the border of Tibet. The trekking is also extended with Gokyo valley trekking ....

Duration: 14 Days

Grade: Moderate

Altitude: 5790m

Trip Detail

Tenboche trekking

Tengboche trekking has been one of the most loved trekking trails for tourists who make their trip to Everest region, especially for those who love to explore the Buddhism and its hidden treasures of its followers. When one visits to Tenboche monastery ...

Duration: 14 Days

Grade: Moderate

Altitude: 3800m

Trip Detail

Renjo Pass and Everest Base Camp Trekking

Renjo pass trekking is no doubt one of the most thrilling trekking in Everest region and is one of the challenging trekking trails in the area. This short route enables trekkers who have limited time to discover the most famous beauties of Nepal. Set among breathtaking high mountain surroundings, the route leads through the ...

Duration: 14 Days

Grade: Moderate

Altitude: 5550m

Trip Detail

Is Nepal safe for Tourism?

2012-09-17T22:00:00.000-07:00

A recurring question, perhaps fueled by poor journalism or by out-of-date advice from Governments, is 'Is it safe to travel in Nepal ?'

The Nepalese accept that tourism is a mainstay of the economy, and are very welcoming. This applies to all sections and political groups: even during the Maoist hostilities of the early 21st century there were very few cases of any hostility towards visitors and the Maoist-led government has declared 2011 to be 'Visit Nepal Year'.

The following statistics (from the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office) are interesting: whilst obviously there are greater numbers of UK visitors to New Zealand and to the USA than to Nepal, they nonetheless suggest that Nepal is a safe destination.

NEW ZEALAND
76 British nationals required consular assistance in New Zealand in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (23 cases); hospitalisations (9 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (24 cases).

USA
1,972 British nationals required consular assistance in the USA in period 01 April 2008 - 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident: deaths (152 cases); hospitalisations (123 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (1,534). The majority of cases occur in New York City; the tourist areas in Florida (principally Orlando and Miami); and Los Angeles and San Francisco. You should be alert to the dangers of car and street crime in cities.

NEPAL
18 British nationals required consular assistance in Nepal in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (3 cases); hospitalisations (1 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (20 cases).

Dawa Sherpa, from Khumjung, adds
"As a resident of Nepal the following is the real situation.
The visitor to Nepal can be advised that Nepal is safe for travel. Some news media suggest that this is not so, but that reflects a distorted, paranoid view of Nepal.
Welcome to Nepal to celebrate Nepal Tourism year 2011"

Rhythm D adds:
Although there are few cases of deaths and crimes of tourists the government and local authorities of Nepal are trying every effort to make the Nepal safer for tourists from all over the world. In July, 2012, the government has banned trekking in Nepal without Nepali staffs for the safety and security of tourists, due to a couple of recent cases of tourists missing, and in one case being found dead. This new move by the Government of Nepal is aimed to make trekkers safer.

Update September 2012
The Nepali government has not banned trekking by individuals without a guide. This was a hoax created by TAAN. Currently all trekkers are free to go independently, no guide is required.

Nepal: about Mt. Everest (Sagarmatha)

2012-09-17T10:21:00.000-07:00

Mount Everest, also called Sagarmatha (Nepali: सगरमाथा) is the highest mountain on Earth, as measured by the height of its summit above sea level.

The mountain is located on the border between Nepal and Tibet, China. By the end of the 2006 climbing season there had been 3,050 ascents to the summit by 2,062 individuals, and at least 630 more ascents in 2007.

There have been more than 200 deaths on the mountain where conditions are so difficult that most corpses have been left where they fell, some of them visible from standard climbing routes.

Mount Everest Pictures

Mt. Everest, Nepal

Climbers range from experienced mountaineers to relative novices who count on their paid guides to get them to the top. This means climbers are a significant source of tourist revenue for Nepal, whose government also requires all prospective climbers to obtain an expensive permit, often costing more than $25,000 (USD) per person.

Although Everest had commanded attraction for many years, it was as late as 1852 that this giant was first measured. Though some sporadic efforts for its measurement were done earlier too but all of them were abandoned in the middle. In the year 1852, The British Trigonometrical Survey of India measured Everest's elevation as 29,002 feet above the sea level. How could, with such limited means and such primitive instruments, anyone find the actual height of the Everest? But surprisingly, that figure was extremely close to the actual height. This remarkably accurate figure remained the officially accepted height for more than one hundred years.

It was only in the year 1955 that this figure was slightly adjusted. The adjusted height was merely 26 feet adrift of the 1852 figure. The adjusted figure stands at 29,028 feet (8,848 m). The mountain received its official name in 1865 in honor of Sir George Everest, the British Surveyor General from 1830-1843 who had mapped the Indian subcontinent. He had some reservations about having his name bestowed on the peak, arguing that the mountain should retain its local appellation; a standard policy of the then geographical societies. His thoughts were in accordance to the Victorian norms of that era.

Mount Everest Pictures

Nepal tourism: Ganesh himal trekking

2012-09-17T04:46:00.000-07:00

Ganesh Himal trekking is one another popular trekking trail in Nepal. It is located between the Langtang and Annapurna Himalaya region. The eastern part of the Ganesh Himal range is famous for the unique culture of ethnic group called ‘Tamang’, and for spectacular views of mountains and colorful rhododendron forests. It is also one of the most loved trekking trails among the clients of Yatra Himalaya.

Generally, the trekking in Ganesh himal region is arranged for sighting of the flora and fauna, where you can enjoy with diverse family of orchids and a variety of ferns, the valleys set ablaze by yellow blossoms of double Jasmine, the forest dense with Spanish oak, blue pine. During the spring season, the rhododendron bloom in such a way that really enchants one to visit time and again.

Ganesh Himal trekking begins from Trishuli or Syabrubesi and ends at Dhading or Gorkha, your trek through Ganesh Himal passes though yet unexplored valleys, pine forests and a number of passes. Furthermore, the main attraction area, the ‘Tamang villages and you reach Sangjung Kharka and Khola Kharka to view Ganesh Himal V, Ganesh Himal II, Langtang Li Rung (7,225m) and Paldor peak among others. This trekking offers really a superb opportunity to enjoy magnificent views of a number of Himalayas and explore several flora, fauna, Nepalese cultural tradition from the closest quarter and intermingle with local people. You also can have panoramic views of more than 35 mountains including Singala pass, Dharka, Jasail Kunda, Jyamrung, Kasigaun,Khanchok and Gorkha. This trekking is ideal for those who want to observe yet unspoiled Tamang culture, spectacular views of mountains and colorful rhododendron forest.

Facts of Trip
Destination:	Ganesh Himal
Season:	Autumn, Spring
Highest Altitude	4000m
Grade:	Moderate
Transportation:	By bus
Accommodation:	Camping / Lodge
Trek Duration:	15 Days

Itinerary
Day 01.	Arrival in Kathmandu. Transfer to Hotel
Day 02.	Visit in Kathmandu
Day 03.	Bus: Kathmandu/Shyabrubensi.(9h-1970m)
Day 04.	Shyabrubensi/Gatland.(7h-2650m)
Day 05.	Gatland/Somdang.(6h30-3200m)
Day 06.	Somdang/Jageswar Khund.(6h30-4400m)
Day 07.	Jageshwar Khund/Tipling. (7h-2790m)
Day 08.	Tipling/Bhabil Khola.(1350m)
Day 09.	Bhabil Khola/Hindung.(6h30-2600m)
Day 10.	Himdung/Thulo Dhungo.(5h-3250m)
Day 11.	Thulo Dhungo/Deurali.(5h-3800m)
Day 12.	Deurali/Hindung(4h-2600m)
Day 13.	Hindung/Barang.(7h-1600m)
Day 14.	Barang/Kuri.(6h-1200m)
Day 15.	Kuri/Kintang.(7h30-1850m)
Day 16.	Kintang/Kagune Bazar.(6h30-800m)
Day 17.	Kagune Bazar/Trisuli Bazar(1h30-650m)/Kathmandu
Day 18.	Free day in Kathmandu
Day 19.	Depart

Cost Include

Transportation as per mentioned in the program traveling by bus
Complete full board trekking in lodge to lodge (Tea House) (except the beverage
An English-speaking guide and necessary helper guides (Sherpas) (French speaking guide for necessary)
One porter for 2 persons
National Park Fee, TIMS card
Four night hotel in Kathmandu
Nepali staff insurance

Cost Exclude

Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu
Any expenses caused by reason beyond our control such as roadblock due to natural climates and accidents and unforeseen events. Etc…
Personal insurance (medical / repatriation of the participants)
Personal trekking equipment (sleeping bags etc)
Airport Tax and tips for trekking staff.
Drinking water, alcohol, hot shower for during a trekking
Visa fee

Nepal Tourism: Dolpo Trekking

2012-09-17T02:09:00.000-07:00

Dolpo trekking has been one of the major destinations for trekkers and mountain lovers ever since it was opened for the outsiders. Dolpo lies in the north-west region of Nepal (situated behind the Dhaulagiri massif) and is one of the most remote and least exposed areas of Nepal. These unexplored, high altitude valleys were not opened until 1989. Isolated by the difficult topography, the people in this region have preserved their lifestyle, remaining almost untouched by the trappings of modern society.

Dolpo remained out of reach of outsiders for long, therefore, the culture and lifestyles of the Tebetan origin people of here have not only yet changed but has been one of the prime attraction for many. Moreover, the culture people inhibiting in the area has become one of the best preserved example of Tibetan Buddhism in the world. The unique hospitality and gorgeous landscapes of the areas not only has enchanted to many trekkers but it has been fondest and lifetime experience for many. Thus, Dolpo has been one of the most loved and demanded trekking destinations among the clients of Yatra Himalaya. Treking to Dolpo has often been called the Nepal Himalaya pilgrimage trekking and hidden valley trek created by Tibetan Monk--Guru Rinpoche.

The snowy peaks, ancient and isolated villages, rich wildlife, reliable Buddhist Monasteries and wonderful lakes enthrall every one of us who visit to the area. Dolpo has been like a living library for many researchers who love to explore the beginning of the human civilizations and Tibetan Buddhism. Apart from many other attractions, Shey Phoksundo National Park—The largest national park in Nepal, Shey Phoksundo lake and its crystal waters, the rocks, forests, snow capped peaks in its surrounding is one of world’s natural hidden wonders.

Dolpo, the best known of the many isolated high Himalayan valleys across northern Nepal preserves one of the last remnants of traditional Tibetan culture. According to legend, the Dolpo is considered to be one of the hidden valleys created by Guru Rinpoche --a refuge for devout Buddhists in troubled times. The people of Dolpo are of Tibetan origin and maintain their Tibetan culture with monasteries that follow closely the Buddhism of Tibet. The proximity with Tibet has ensured that little has changed since their forefathers crossed the border into Nepal. The trek is enlivened by the sight of yak caravans that even today travel long distances through difficult terrain to barter goods. The people of Dolpo have a primitive lifestyle with their own dialect and culture. During this wonderful trek you can visit several unique monasteries (gompas) like Shey Gompa (The Crystal Monastery) which is an important pilgrimage site for Tibetans.

There are several routes to Dolpo, especially from Pokhara and Jumla. The journey begins with flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal. Subsequently, from Jupal, we head to Dunai, the district headquarter and camp and we continue our trek along the banks of Barbung Khola to Tarakote, known locally as Dzong for its hilltop fortress. Proceeding along Tarap Khola through grassy meadows, Magar villages and their Gompas, the highest point of the trek Numa La (5,190m) is reached, which affords a magnificent views of Dhaulagiri to the south and Tibetan ranges C Kugung La and Khyung La to the north. Then we descend down to Suli Gad river to Raha, the park entrance and finally to the hamlet of Juphal. From there, we catch plain to Nepalgunj or Pokhara or direct flight to Kahtmandu. The best time to trek both in lower or Upper Dolpa is during the end of the monsoon season especially September to November.

Dolpo Trekking Route

Lower Dolpo Trek and Phoksundo Lake

Lower Dolpo trekking is one of the attractive destinations in Nepal Himalaya and it is the most demanded trekking destination among the clients of Yatra Himalaya. It is located on the isolated corner of trans-Himalayan zone of Nepal. Trekking in lower Dolpo gives tourists an exposure to one of the hidden wilderness in the ....

Duration: 14 Days

Grade: Strenuous

Altitude: 5300m

Upper Dolpo Trek

Upper Dolpo is a remote hidden but much loved destination among the clients of Yatra Himalaya. This far west region is one of the Nepal’s tranquil and natural heavens but yet unexplored area. It is the home of herbal land, unspoiled trans-Himalayan culture, Buddhist monuments; unique human civilization at high ....

Duration: 22 Days

Grade: Strenuous+

Altitude: 5240M

Nepal: Trekking in Kathmandu, Pokhara and Namche Bazaar

2012-09-17T01:53:00.000-07:00

Equipments and Clothings:

Equipment needed depends largely upon where, when and how one is trekking. The main emphasis while trekking is on keeping warm and dry while still being lightweight. For lower altitude, fleece jackets are adequate, while at higher altitudes down jackets are advisable. Waterproof, wind-proof jackets and plants pants, well broken-in footwear, head covering are also recommended. Good sleeping bags sunglasses, drinking water bottle, torch light, sun block cream, toiletries, first aid kit and very good route map are other items necessary. Cameras, on the other hand, are handy for taking home memories.

Trekking equipments are available in Kathmandu, Pokhara and Namche Bazaar.

Medication shops are few are i\on trekking route. Therefore, it is best to carry first aid kit and read about the possible problems before hand. On the Everest Base Camp route at Pheriche and on the Annapurna circuit route at Manang, there are clinics operated by the Himalayan rescue Association that specializes in treating trekker's health problems. These clinics are open only during the main trekking seasons. While on teaks, the following problems could occur:

Upset stomach, often caused by change in diet or contaminated food and water is a common ailment. To avoid it one should pay particular attention to hygiene and quality of food and drinks.
Cough, cold, sore throats, common in the dry mountain air can lead to chest infection. Sore throats can best be avoided by attempting not to breathe cold air directly through mouth. Smoking should also be avoided.
Joint muscle strains, foot problems, and blisters are other hindrances for trekkers. Wearing good footwear will go long way in avoiding these problems. For sprains and strains, apply cold water to reduce swelling and support the joint with crepe bandage.
Acute Mountain sickness (AMS) is a fatal sickness caused by random altitude ascension. Therefore climbers ascending 3,000 meters or above should acquire sound knowledge of proper acclimatization processes. Symptoms of AMS include headache, loss of appetite, swelling of limbs, dizziness, difficulty, etc. in sleeping, irregular breathing, nausea, and unusual weariness. Maintaining good fluid intake helps combat altitude sickness and hurried descent or evacuation to lower altitude is the only best cure.

Safety and Security:

Nepal is a safe country to trek provided the basic rules are observed. When with trekking agency most contingencies are handled by agency staff. However, one could get lost or hurt and have no one to ask for help when trekking alone. Therefore, trekkers should either trek with agencies or hire reliable guides if trekking in smaller groups. Women guides are available for women trekkers. The best way to avoid risk while trekking is thorough planning, playing by the rules and realizing human limitations. In case of misfortune, detailed message should be dispatched to a reliable organization or individual immediately for rescue operation. If communication facilities are unavailable, normal first aid principle should be followed till help arrives. Some of the safety rules to abide by are:

Do not trek alone.
Do not make the display of wealth.
Keep belongings secure and within sight.
Make arrangements for handling emergency situation before hand.
Register personal information and trekking path details with respective embassies.
Bye travel insurance policy that covers helicopter rescue cost. Leave a copy of details with an agency in Kathmandu.
Choose only authorized government registered trekking agencies, guides, and porters.

Environmental Issues:

A general advice to trekkers is to leave only footprints and take only photographs. However, the recent developments along trekking trails have been of concern to environmentalist and locals alike. The sprouting of teahouse along trekking trails demand wood for construction and fuel, which has led to deforestation. In addition, the amount of waste has increased without proper mechanism for disposal, making some of the popular trails both unsightly and unhealthy. With increased awareness on the part of trekkers and local people, this trend is changing. However, message still needs to be passed across for a more environmentally sound trekking. For vigilant trekking the following rules to be followed:

Ensure that your trekking company supplies sufficient kerosene or gas for cooking.
Dispose biodegradable waste properly and carry non-biodegradable waste out or dump them in properly constructed waste pit.
Ensure that campsites are left clean and that toilet pits are properly filled in after use.

Nepal Tourism: Bardia National Park

2012-09-13T02:28:00.000-07:00

Bardia National Park (968 sq km)

The Bardia National park is the largest and most undisturbed protected area in the Terai and is home to the endangered Royal Bengal tiger and Nepal’s famous one-horned rhinoceros. The national park located in the far western district of Bardiya, is borded by the river Karnali in the west, the Churia range in the north, while the River Babai flows right through the park.

The varied geographical factors together with the thick cover of Sal, savannah forests and grasslands render this region ideal as wild animal habitat. The park hosts 30 different mammals, more than 250 species of birds, and several varieties of reptiles and water animals.

Some of the other animals found where are elephant, swamp deer, blackbuck, gharial crocodile and marsh mugger crocodile. The exotic Gangetic Dolphin is also sometimesseen in river Karnali. Birds include endangered varieties of Bangel florican, lesser florican, silver-eared mesia and sarus crane.

The park offers the rare opportunity of fishing at River Karnali and River Babai.

Activities: Jungle safari on elephant-back, jungle walk, jeep drive
Accommodation: Jungle lodges
Access: Three hours by jeep (95km) form Nepalgunj which is 1hour 10 minute by air or 531 by road from Kathmandu
Best Season: Oct-Mar; Apr-Jun (hot, 45 degrees Celsius), Jul-Sep (rainy)
Park headquarters: Thakurdwara, Tel: 084-429719

About all Nepali Scripts

2012-09-13T01:15:00.000-07:00

Nepali or Nepalese (नेपाली) is a language in the Indo-Aryan branch of the Indo-European language family.
It is the official language and de facto lingua franca of Nepal and is also spoken in Bhutan, parts of India and parts of Myanmar (Burma). In India, it is one of the country's 23 official languages: Nepali has official language status in the formerly independent state of Sikkim and in West Bengal's Darjeeling district. The influence of the Nepali language can also be seen in Bhutan and some parts of Burma. Nepali developed in proximity to a number of Tibeto-Burman languages, most notably Kiranti and Gurung, and shows Tibeto-Burman influences.

Nēpālī (नेपाली)

Nepali is an Indo-Aryan language with around 17 million speakers in Nepal, Bhutan, Burma and India. Nepali was originally known as Khas Kurā and was the language of the Khasa kingdom, which ruled over the foothills of what is now Nepal during the 13th and 14th centuries.
Nepali first started to be used in writing during the 12th century AD. It is written with the Devanāgarī alphabet, which developed from the Brahmi script in the 11th century AD.

Devanāgarī alphabet for Nepali

Vowels and vowel diacritics

Consonants

Numerals

Sample text in Nepali

Transliteration
Sabai vyaktiharū janmajāt svatantra hun tī sabaikō samān adhikār ra mahatva cha. Nijaharūmā vicāraśakti ra sadvicār bhaēkōlē nijaharūlē āpastmā bhrātr̥tvakō bhāvanābāṭ vyavahār garanu parcha.
A recording of this text by Sarthak Sharma

Translation

All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.
(Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights)
Thanks to Arvind Iyengar for providing the above sample text.
Useful phrases in Nepali

Links

Information about the Nepali language
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nepali_language
Online Nepali lessons
http://www.nepali.info/nepali/lessons/
http://www.ms.dk/nepali
https://www.glovico.org/en/nepali
Nepali phrases
http://the-voyagers.tripod.com/language.htm
http://www.enjoynepal.com/nepali.asp
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nepali_language#Phrases
http://www.digitalhimalaya.com/projectteam/turin/downloads/nepali_primer.pdf
Free Nepali fonts
http://www.nepalhomepage.com/reference/fonts/
http://www.nepali.info/nepali/fonts/
http://www.thdl.org/tools/nepali.html
Nepali transliterator - type in Romanized Nepali and convert it to Devanagari
http://unicode.cafedeweb.com/
Devanagari script tutor
http://www.avashy.com/hindiscripttutor.htm
Online news in Nepali
http://www.aajabholi.com
http://www.arghakhanchi.com
http://www.freenepal.com
http://www.nayapatrika.com/newsportal/
http://abc.com.np
http://dainikee.com
http://www.bbc.co.uk/nepali/
http://www.usnepalonline.com
Madan Puraskar Pustakalaya (MPP) - the principal archive of books and periodicals in Nepali: http://www.mpp.org.np

Indo-Aryan languages

Awadhi, Assamese, Bengali, Bhojpuri, Chakma, Dhivehi, Gujarati, Hindi, Kashmiri, Konkani, Kotia, Kutchi, Maithili, Marathi, Marwari, Modi, Nepali, Oriya, Punjabi, Rajasthani, Romany, Saraiki, Sindhi, Sinhala, Sourashtra, Sugali, Sylheti, Urdu

Languages written with the Devanāgarī alphabet

Awadhi, Bhojpuri, Hindi, Kashmiri, Konkani, Kurukh, Maithili, Marathi, Marwari, Mundari, Nepal Bhasa / Newari, Nepali, Pali, Rajasthani, Sanskrit, Saraiki, Sindhi, Sylheti

Nepal: Language learning tips

2012-09-12T20:48:00.000-07:00

Collection of advice, suggestions, tips and techniques for learning languages. Most are based on my own experiences, while some come from other people.

Many of these tips, perhaps with some minor modifications, also apply to learning others skills, such as music.

Why should I learn a language?

There are many reasons to learn a foreign language, from working in another country to discovering your roots, through intellectual curiosity, romance, travel, and secret communication.
More reasons for learning languages

Which language should I learn?

Once you have decided to learn a language, you may not be quite sure which language to choose. To some extent, your choice depends on your reasons for learning a language. For example, if you'd like to communicate with as many people as possible, learning such languages as Mandarin Chinese, Spanish, French, Russian or Arabic would enable you to do so.
More tips on which language to learn

What materials and tools do I need to study a language?

There's a wide range of materials
and tools available to help you with your language studies, including language courses, dictionaries, grammar books, phrasebooks, online lessons, mp3 players and electronic translators. More on language learning materials and tools

How can I find time to study a language?

Finding time to study a language can be quite a challenge. You may think that you don't really have enough of it, but it's surprising how many spare moments you have during a typical day, and how they can add up to a useful amount of study time.
More on finding time for your studies

What's the best way to study?

After choosing a language, you can start thinking about how you're going to study it. For popular languages like French and Spanish, there's a wealth of materials available. For lesser-studied languages, the choice can be more limited. If courses are available in your area, it might help you to attend them, or you may prefer to study on your own, or to have individual lessons.
More advice on choosing a way to study and some general tips

Learning pronunciation

Learning the pronunciation of a language is a very important part of your studies. It doesn't matter so much if you just want to read and/or write the language, but if you want to speak a language well, as I'm sure you do, pay particular attention to the pronunciation and review it regularly.
More on learning pronunciation and improving listening comprehension

Learning vocabulary

Building up your vocabulary in a foreign language can take many years. Learning words in context from written and spoken material is probably the most effective way to do this. You could also try learning words in a more systematic way - perhaps a certain number of words every day.
More on learning vocabulary | Spaced repetition learning systems (SRS)

Learning grammar

Familiarity with the grammar of a language enables you to understand it, and also to construct your own phrases and sentences. It's not essential to know all the grammatical terminology or to understand why words change, as long as you're able to apply to relevant changes when necessary.
More on learning grammar

Learning alphabets and other writing systems

If the language you're learning is written with a different alphabet or other type of writing system, learning it is well worth the effort. Some alphabets, such as Cyrillic and Greek, can be learnt without too difficulty. Others, such as Devanagari and Thai, are a more challenging.
More on learning a new writing system

Learning Chinese characters

If you're learning one of the languages that use Chinese characters, such as Chinese, Japanese or Korean, you're faced with quite a challenge. However, there are some techniques you can use to help you learn all those funny little pictures and symbols.
More on learning to read and write Chinese Characters

Frequently asked questions about learning languages

On this page you can find answers to some of the questions I get asked most frequently about languages, such as "Are some languages more difficult to learn than others?" and "Which is harder to learn, Chinese or Japanese?".
FAQs page

Foreign phrases

This section contains an ever-growing collection of useful phrases in many different languages, with audio files for many of them. The phrases are arranged by phrase and by language.
Useful phrases in many languages

Careers using languages

What kind of jobs and careers are available to students of languages? This page provides some information about interpreting, translating, teaching, and other language-related jobs, and also links to sites with further information and vacancies.
More on language-related careers

My own experiences of learning languages

I've been interested in language and languages for as long as I can remember. I am currently fluent in five languages, have a fairly good conversational ability in five others, and a basic knowledge of ten more. I've experimented with a variety of language learning techniques and courses, and continue to do so.
More about my language learning adventures

Note:

L1 = your native language(s) and any other language(s) you know
L2 = the language(s) you are learning

Books on how to learn languages
Language learning materials

Some useful phrases in many different languages

Links

Share your experiences of and advice on learning languages
http://tinyurl.com/694to63

How to learn any language
http://how-to-learn-any-language.com

How to Learn a Language - tips and discussion
http://www.kuro5hin.org/story/2004/11/9/195744/646

How to Learn Any Language
http://language101.com/how-to-learn-any-language.html

Language Learning Advisor - A Guide to Language Learning Success
http://www.language-learning-advisor.com

Learn lots of Languages
http://learnlotsoflanguages.com

Language Impact - Helping Language Learners Learn Language
http://www.languageimpact.com

Language Learning Bookshelf
http://www.sil.org/LinguaLinks/LanguageLearning/LanguageLearning.htm

Ultimate Language Secrets
http://www.ultimatelanguagesecrets.com

Want to learn a new language? Learn new languages while playing games
TEFL courses - learn to teach English as a Foreign Language
http://www.onlinetefl.com

Portable PDF phrasebooks - buy one for only $2.99, buy 12 for only $10!
Language Software offers great software for translation and language learning purposes at decent prices.
Learn a language abroad - All you need to know when preparing a language study stay abroad
Free advice about online PhD programs and accredited universities
http://phdadmissions.info

Free guides and advice from University academics about Online PhD courseware.
Transparent Language - 15% off orders of $35 or more

Nepal Tourism: Kanchanjunga Conservation Area

2012-09-10T02:37:00.000-07:00

Kanchanjunga Conservation Area [KCA] (2,035 sq km)

Situated in north-eastern Nepal in the district of Taplejung, the Kanchanjunga Conservation Area is bordered by the Tibet-China in the north, Sikkim-India in the east and Sankhuwa -Sabha district in the west.

The area has alpine grasslands, low river valleys with temperate and sub-tropical forests. Ten species among Nepal’s 20 indigenous gymnosperms and 15 among Nepal’s 28 endemic flowering plants are found in this region. In addition, almost 30 varieties of rhododendron species and 69 varieties of orchids are found here. Wildlife includes endangered snow leopard, Himalayan black bear musk deer red panda, blue sheep and rhesus macaw. About 202 species of different birds including Impheyan pheasant, red-billed blue magpie, shy drongo are found in the area.

Activities: Trekking, mountaineering.
Accommodation: Tea houses, camping.
Access: From Taplejung which can be reached by air from Kathmandu
Best Season: March- May; Sep- Nov
Park headquarter: Lelep, Tel: 024-460081

Nepal Tourism: Annapurna Conservation Area

2012-09-10T02:36:00.000-07:00

ANNAPURNA CONSERVATION AREA PROJECT – ACAP (7,629 sq km)

The Annapurna Conservation Area is one of the best trekking trails in the world. The area spreads around Kaski, Mustang, Manang and Lamjung districts of Central Nepal. Starting with an altitude of 790 meters, the area reaches as high as 8,091 meters of Mt. Annapurna. Ghandruk is the fist experience and further down is Ghorepani that provides fantastic panoramic view of the Annapurna ranges. Equally eye catching are hills of rhododendron that blossom every spring.

The turning point of the Annapurna Circuit is Jomsom. The trek southeast from Jomsom leads to the scenic Tilicho Lake area at an altitude of 4,919 meters. In the circuit route, is the famous Himdu religious sites Muktinath Temple.

The vegetation in this region includes various species of orchids and rhododendron. Wildlife includes around 100 different kinds of mammals including rare snow leopards and blue sheep. The region also boasts of around 478 species of birds including multi-colored Impheyan, Koklas and blood pheasants. In addition the region is also home to 39 species of reptiles and 22 species of amphibians.

Activities: Trakking, Mountaineering
Accommodation: resort hotels, lodges, camping
Access: From Pokhara which is 202 km by road or 30 minutes by air from Kathmandu
Best season: March-May; Sept.-Nov.
ACPA Headquarter: Hariyo Kharka, Pokhara, Tel: 061-521102, 528202

Nepal Tourism: Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

2012-09-10T02:32:00.000-07:00

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve (176 sq km)

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve has carved a place for itself as a birdwatcher’s paradise. The reserve spreads over Saptari and Sunsari districts in East Nepal over the embankments of River Koshi. The reserve has been recognized as Wetland site from 1987. The vegetation of the reserve is mainly grassland with patches of scrub and deciduous reverine forests. The reserve has recorded around 439 species of bird variety, some of which fly all the way from Siberia during winter. A wide variety of ducks, herons, storks, egrets, ibis etc. are seen on the riverbanks. Koshi Tappu Reserve also has one of the few elephant stables of Asia. Other animals found here are wild buffalo, wild boar, hog deer, spotted deer, blue bell and jackal. Gharial Crocodile and Gangetic Dolphin are other attractions.

Activities: Game viewing, bird watching
Accommodation: Resorts & Tented camps
Access: 90- minute drive (40km) from Biratnagar which is 50 minute by air or 541 km by road from Kathmandu.
Best Season: Oct-Mar; Apr-Jun (hot), Jul-sep (rainy)
Reserve Headquarter: Kusaha, Tel: 025-530897

Nepal Tourism: Shivapuri National Park

2012-09-10T02:31:00.000-07:00

Shivapuri National Park (144 sq km)

The Shivapuri National Park (144 sq km) is the major watershed supplying drinking water to the capital city of Kathmandu. Lying in the transition zone between the subtropical and temperate climatic zones, its diverse vegetation is composed of pine, oak, rhododendron and others. The park is rich in wild mushrooms (129 species).

The wildlife found in the national park includes Himalayan black bear, leopard, jungle cat, and rhesus monkeys. The park is home to over 177 species of birds including 9 threatened species, over 100 species of butterflies including rare and threatened. The park has several rain-red rivers that are the major source of drinking water for the capital city. The park produces 227 million liters water per day of which 30 million liters per day are collected for consumption.

Towering over the Kathmandu valley, the Shivapuri National Park is a fog-free zone. During winter while Kathmandu and the other towns and settlements of the valley are still dark under the thick cold fog, the park get sparkling sunlight. It receives regular westerly winds blowing from the Trishuli river valley.

Situated only 12 km to the north of Kathmandu, the park is the main entrance of the trekking routes to Gosainkunda, Helambu, Kagarkot and the Langtang National Park. The major routes include Pani Muhan to Shivapuri peak (2,732 meter above mean sea level), Nagi gumba to the peak, Nagi gumba to Baghdwar, Sundarijal to Chisapani. The breathtaking views of the high Himalayan peaks can be seen from the top of the Shivapuri Mountain.

The park is a spiritually significant for the popular shrines and meditation centers in the natural surroundings. The park consists of several religious and cultural heritage sites for the Hindus as well as Buddhists. They include the peaks of Shivapuri, Manichur, Tarkeswor and the source of the Bagmati and Bishnumati rivers. The other famous shrines that are worth visiting are Budhanilkantha, Sundarimai and the Nagi monastery attract thousands of pilgrims during festive seasons.

Activities: Hiking, rock climbing, bird watching
Access: 11 km to the north of Kathmandu, taxi or bus
Best Season: Sep-Jun; Jul-Aug (rainy)
Park Headquarter: Shivapuri, Tel: 01-4371644

Nepal Tourism: Shey-Phoksundo National Park

2012-09-10T02:29:00.000-07:00

Shey-Phoksundo National Park (3,555 sq km)

Shey-Phoksundo National Park is situated in the Trans-Himalayan region of north west of Nepal. It is Nepal’s largest national park.

With diverse terrain and altitude variation, the park spreads over Dolpa and Mugu districts and supports a broad range of wildlife and vegetation. Geographical landmarks of the park are the Himalayn peaks in the north and Lake Phoksundo, in the southern region.

Vegetation include pine, walnut, willow, oak and cypress and the lower altitude & pine, spruce, juniper & birch at higher regions. Berberis, wild rosea and caragana are seen in alpine areas while the regions higher up are mostly arid with grass alpine meadows with barely any trees.

The park contains 286 florea species of botanical importance. Animals found in the region are sheep, ghoral, musk deer, leopard, wild dog, marmot, weasel, mouse hare, rhusus & langur monkeys, Himalayan thar, Himalayan black bear and Jackals.

In the upper reaches is seen the rare snow leopard. Over 200 species of birds including yellow-throated marten, Tibetan partridge, wood snip, white-throated tit, wood accentor, & crimson-eared rose finch are found in the park. Other species of birds found here are Impeyan, cheer pheasant, chough, ravens, Tibetan show cock, Tibetan twit, brown dipper, Himalayan griffon & lammergeyer. Apart from these the park is home to 6 species of reptiles & 29 species of Butterfly.

Activities: Trekking, Mountaineering
Accommodation: Camping
Access: Fly to Dolpa’s Jufal airport from Nepalgunj or Pokhara and then a three-day walk
Best Season: Mar-May (high passes may still covered with snow) and Jun-Sep (clear weather)
Park Headquarter: Sumduwa, Tel: 087-550104