Visit Nepal 2011

Gadhimai (Where More Than Hundered Thousand Animals Are Sacrified In A Single Day)

2009-12-04T05:09:00.002+00:00

~~The sacred place which looks like a hell. Don't forget to visit there in 2011~~.

Bariyarpur, Bara: The offering of animal sacrifice at the Gadhimai Temple in Bariyarpur of Bara began from this morning. Thousands of buffaloes, goats, pigs and birds are sacrificed at the temple during the Gadhimai Festival that occurs every five years. The animal sacrifice is considered the biggest animal sacrifice at a single place on a single occasion in the whole Asia.

The offering of animals to the Goddess Gadhimai began after chief priest Mangal Chaudhary and shaman Dukha Kachhadiya performed tantric rituals and offered sacrifice of five different animals including a white mouse to the goddess at midnight.

On the first day of the festival, only buffaloes are sacrificed. The sacrifice of goats and birds will be carried out from Wednesday to Monday, according to Gadhimai Festival Management Committee.

Coordinator of a sub-committee formed to manage the committee Dhiraj Mahato said 18,000 buffaloes are expected to be sacrificed at the temple this time.

The offering of buffalo sacrifice begins after a oil-fed lamp lits up automatically after the tantric rituals at midnight. The sacrifice continues till the lamp puts out. The buffalos that cannot be sacrificed before the lamp puts out are abandoned after cutting off their ears.

The he-buffalo brought from Baneras remains the centre of attraction for all.

Thise devotees who can not offer the sacrifice as per the promise during the festival offer the sacrifices in Maghe Sankranti and Fagu Purnima.

Gadhimai Festival is Nepal’s biggest festival, which is attended by over 7 million people. This year, over 8 million peiple are expected to observe the festival and over 40,000 animals and birds are expected to be sacrificed.

A human sea was present in Bariyarpur today to observe the festival. Festival management committee estimated that over 5 million people observed the festival tuesday alone.

The uniqueness of the festival is that no housefly is seen around the area, despite the fact that thousands of animals are sacrificed here and the ground at the sacrifice site is full with blood. Devotees believe it is because of the power of the goddess. The heads of the sacrificed buffaloes are buried near the temple.

Prospectus Of Visit Nepal 2011

2009-11-28T04:23:00.000+00:00

The natural scenery, high mountains, incomparable cultural heritage and numerous specialties have made Nepal a well-known destination in the world tourism map with a distinct image of its own. However, the development of tourism is limited in number and within the certain areas of the country only. The new government has shown greater concerns about the real value of tourism and its role in contributing to economic growth, poverty alleviation, equity and overall tourism development in the country.

Therefore, the government is placing high priority on the tourism sector in its new economic development policy. As there is a favorable political situation in the country, the government is all geared towards economic revolution in next 10 years for the up-liftment of the masses. In this connection, government of Nepal in consultation with Nepalese Tourism Industry, concerned organizations and experts decided to launch a national tourism campaign "Nepal Tourism Year 2011". This announcement reflects the government’s anticipation to bring into at least one million international tourists in Nepal by the year 2011 and spread the benefits of tourism to the people at large. The national campaign also indicates the tourism industry’s exigency to organize a tourism promotion campaign having wider impact.

With the glittering badge of adventure destination and the adage “Atithi Devo Bhava” (Guests are Gods) that reflects "Atithi Satkar, Nepaliko Sanskar" (Hospitality is Nepalese culture) deeply rooted in our culture, the tourism products of Nepal never cease to mesmerize the visitors. The cultural, geographical, ethnic and bio-diversities of the country allure international visitors to Nepal time and again which truly substantiates the spirit of Nepal tourism brand; ‘Naturally Nepal, once is not enough !

The concept of Nepal Tourism Year 2011 envisions harnessing these opportunities and strengths and bringing together the commitment of the government, expertise and experiences of the organizations like Nepal Tourism Board, aptitude and dynamism of the private sector and communities for further tourism development in the country. Active involvement of the major political parties, members of the Constitution Assembly and Right groups is always taken into consideration in order to make the campaign inclusive and participatory in modus operandi and effective in result. The campaign will also focus on mobilizing the networks of the Non-Resident Nepalis (NRN) communities, Nepalese diplomatic missions abroad, I/NGOs, airlines, and national and international media. Similarly, friends and well-wishers of Nepal, tourism academicians and celebrities will also be approached in order to highlight the campaign internally as well as internationally.

Tourist Police ( The key Of Secure Tourism In Nepal)

2009-11-10T05:40:00.003+00:00

Government of Nepal, with the aim of developing a resourceful Tourist Police over the time, on the recommendation of the proposal presented by the Police Reforms Recommendation Taskforce, created additional thirty-one posts for tourist police that included six Sub-Inspectors, six Assistant Sub-Inspectors, seven head constables and twelve constables on BS 2062/7/22. They have also given the added responsibility to overcome the various irregularities that exist in travel and trekking businesses. There is also an aim to set up sub-branches (beats) at various locations within the valley such as airport, Basantapur, Lazimpat, Thamel, Patan, Swayambhu, Bhaktapur, Boudha and one in Pokhara also.

There is no doubt that if the Tourist Police are given the necessary training within the country and in other friendly nations about the international standards of service and the prevailing tourism laws and also if they are established as a separate service entity with their own set of responsibilities and authorities, then the Tourist Police will be better equipped to discharge their duties towards the security of foreign tourists in Nepal.

Nepal is a country blessed with the beauties of Nature that lures tourists in abundance from all over the world. Majestic snow-clad mountains, exotic flora and fauna, invaluable natural resources, intricate art and architecture enrapture tourists. Rich Cultural Heritage is just another aspect, which entices people from different land. Immense trust and cordiality are the characteristics that have contributed to promote Tourism in the International arena.

Tourist Police has played a very vital role in preventing harassment and misbehavior, control and discourage criminal activities against tourists. Since its inception, the Tourist Police has taken pains to provide security, facilities and render appropriate services whenever in need. The Tourist Police discharges its duties at the Tribhuvan International Airport Thamel and Basantapur, the main Tourist areas in Kathmandu.

The Tourist Police at Bhrikutimandap have recently, expanded its services in Lalitpur and Bhaktapur The Tourist Police register complaints and recommend for necessary action to help recover lost goods of the tourists and prepares a police report. To prevent harassment to tourists by the beggars, peddlers and cheats, tourists' sites are properly inspected. The activities of unlicensed hotels, travel agencies and rafting are regularly monitored to see that tourists are not exploited and cheated. Interaction program is conducted among the Taxi-drivers, and others and local guides to extend good and efficient services to the tourists.

Keeping in coordination with the Municipality, Tourism Board and Tourist associated organizations, the Tourist Police prepare brochure for the tourists. Necessary arrangement is made in the event of Nepal Bandh (strikes) and vehicle strikes, which cause inconvenience for the tourist to commute. Tourist Police assist the tourists to seek counseling with the concerned Embassies.

Tourist Police Reform Task Force has been formed by the Government to reform, develop and expand its services at other parts of the country. The Reform Task Force has prepared both short and long term working plan, increasing the manpower according to the need of the time, expand resources and manage budget at eight Tourists Police Beat. Tourist Police Beat in Pokhara has 72 personnel; likewise it will be expanded in 11 places Chitwan, Sunauli, Kanchanpur, Kakarvitta, Birgunj, Biratnagar, Kohalpur, Itahari and Janakpur with 193 employees to serve the tourists.

Foreign Currency Exchange Rates For Tourist Relesed By Central Bank Of Nepal

2009-11-08T03:36:00.000+00:00

Exchange Rates Fixed by Central Bank of Nepal.
Currency
(Approx)
Indian Rupee
100 Unit
160 Buying/Rs
160. . Selling/Rs.

U.S. dollar
1 Unit
74.60 Buying/Rs
75.20 Selling/Rs
European euro
1 Unit
1 10.98 Buying/Rs
111.88 Selling/Rs
UK pound sterling
1 Unit
123.96 Buying/Rs
124.96 Selling/Rs
Swiss franc
1 Unit
73.40 Buying/Rs
73.99 Selling/Rs
Australian dollar
1 Unit
68.27 Buying/Rs
68.82 Selling/Rs
Canadian dollar
1 Unit
70.10 Buying/Rs
70.66 Selling/Rs
Singapore dollar
1 Unit
53.52 Buying/Rs
53.95 Buying/Rs
Japanese yen
10 Unit
8.25 Buying/Rs
8.31 Selling/Rs
Chinese renminbi (Yuan)
1 Unit
10.93 Buying/Rs
11.02 Selling/Rs
Saudi Arabian riyal
1 Unit
19.89 Buying/Rs
20.05 Selling/Rs
Qatari riyal
1 Unit
20.49 Buying/Rs
20.66 Selling/ Rs
Thai baht
1 Unit
2.23 Buying/Rs
2.25 Selling/Rs
UAE Dirham
1 Unit
20.31 Buying/Rs
20.47 Selling/Rs
Malaysian ringgit
1 Unit
21.88 Buying/Rs
22.05 Selling/Rs
Only Buying rates
Swedish Krone
1
10.68
Danish Krone
1 Unit
14.91
Hong Kong dollar
1 Unit
9.63

Warnig the world against GLOBAL WARMING from the EVEREST BASE CAMP

2009-11-06T04:48:00.000+00:00

Nepal is to hold a cabinet meeting on Mount Everest to highlight the impact of global warming on the Himalayas ahead of next month's climate change talks in Copenhagen, a minister said on Monday.
The entire cabinet will travel to Everest base camp at an altitude of 5,360 metres (17,585 feet) for the meeting, to be held later this month, forests minister Deepak Bohora told AFP.
The announcement comes just weeks after the government of the Maldives held an underwater cabinet meeting to focus global attention on rising sea levels ahead of the key UN summit on December 7-18.
"The melting of the glaciers in the Himalayas is a serious concern for us," said Bohora.
"We want to focus the world's attention on saving the Himalayas from the effects of climate change before the Copenhagen meeting."
Around 1.3 billion people depend on the water that flows down from the Himalayan glaciers, which experts say are melting at an alarming rate, threatening to bring floods and later drought to the region.
Campaigners say that while the effects of climate change on low-lying South Asian countries such as Bangladesh and the Maldives are now well known, there is little international awareness of the vulnerability of the Himalayan region.
Bohora said the visit would be an opportunity for ministers to gain first-hand information about the effects of climate change on the vast mountain range.
"Climate change has hit the Himalayas in general and Nepal in particular," he said.
"Its effects are being manifested in different forms, from the rapid increase in the size of the glacial lakes to erratic monsoon patterns and unprecedented forest fires."
Bohora also said the government was planning to take some of the world's top mountaineers to Copenhagen to talk about their experiences, among them Apa Sherpa, who has climbed Everest a record 19 times.
Sherpa has said in the past that the amount of snow on the world's highest peak has fallen since he first reached its summit in 1990, a trend he blames on global warming.

Temprature to visit

2009-11-01T04:14:00.001+00:00

Temperature and Weather/When to visit
Many of Nepal’s ‘extreme’ activities will be weather dependent and only available at certain times of the year. Trekking is available almost all year round (although some routes might be inaccessible during the winter) but the weather conditions will influence the type of experience you’re in for!Nepal basically has two seasons, a dry season that occurs between October to May and a wet season (monsoon) that starts roughly in June and continues until September. Both seasons have advantages and disadvantages; you just have to decide what you're planning to do when you get here.Kathmandu sizzles at 30°C between May - September particularly just before the monsoon starts. Although the temperature drops to 20°C in the city during the winter, bright sunny days make it a comfortable place to be but it’s much colder at night and it's a very different picture in the mountains. Altitude has a significant impact on temperature. Trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit around Christmas time should be prepared with their down sleeping bags as night-time temperatures can plummet to about -7°C. While that sounds harsh, by braving frosty mornings you are rewarded with incredible mountains views on perfectly crisp days. Worth every moment of the early morning chill!October to November followed by February to April is tipped as the best times to visit Nepal. The former months present you with Nepal at its most beautiful as the recently finished monsoon leaves the countryside lush and green and the most colourful festivals take place. The latter is especially good for high-altitude trekkers as the weather starts to get warmer and the rhododendrons are in bloom.

Medical

2009-11-01T04:13:00.001+00:00

Mediacal

MedicalAs with visa’s, this website aims to point you in the right direction to find professional and accurate advice to suit your own needs. All travel books explain that your state of health on holiday will depend on your pre-departure preparations, your daily health care while you are away and how you handle any medical condition that may develop. Many of these books also provide an extensive list of optional and essential immunisations! We recommend you to visit Lonely Planet to get some general information. We strongly advise that you see your doctor as they have access to comprehensive medical information for travelers and can provide you with the most reliable advice. Leave sufficient time between your appointment and your departure date; some immunisations need to be administered weeks before you set off on your trip and some malaria (advised for parts of the Terai) tablets should be started before your departure too

Entry Requirements

2009-11-01T04:12:00.001+00:00

Entry Requirements

VisaYou'll need a visa to enter Nepal. You can obtain a visa at the Nepal embassy or consulate in your home country or you can get one on arrival at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International airport or at any road border.
Tourist Visa
Visa Facility Duration Fee Multiple entry 15 days US$ 25 or equivalent convertible currency Multiple entry 30 days US$ 40 or equivalent convertible currency Multiple entry 90 days US$ 100 or equivalent convertible currency
Tourist Visa Extension
Visa extension fee for 15 days or less is US $ 30 or equivalent convertible currency and visa extension fee for more than 15 days is US$ 2 per day Tourist visa can be extended for a maximum period of 150 days in a single visa year (January – December). Gratis (Free) Visa
Gratis visa for 30 days available only for tourists of SAARC countries. Indian nationals do not require visa to enter into Nepal. Transit VisaTransit visa for one day can be obtained from Nepal's immigration offices at the entry points upon the production of departure flight ticket via Tribhuvan International Airport in Nepal, by paying US $ 5 or equivalent convertible currency.
Children under 10 years do not require a visa.To ensure that you are given the most accurate information and obtain the right visa, we advise you to contact on your own, the embassy or consulate. For more general information about the types of visa available visit Nepal Immigration.

How to get here

2009-11-01T04:11:00.001+00:00

How to reach NepalBy AirMost international visitors to Nepal arrive by air into Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport. Austrian Airlines, Lauda Air and Martin Air operate direct flights from Europe. Gulf Air and Qatar Airways (middle eastern airlines) are used my many European visitors. Although there are transfers in the Middle East, your stopover will last no longer than a couple of hours. New Delhi is most often the transfer point for travelers using other airlines from Europe and the east coast of North America where Indian Airlines and Royal Nepal Airlines Corporation (RNAC) operate the onward journey to Kathmandu. Recently, Jet Airways and Air Sahara are another carriers added to fly to Kathmandu from main Indian cities. Travelers from west coast of the States or Australia are likely to change in Bangkok where Thai Airways and RNAC have easy connections to Kathmandu. Flights to Kathmandu are also available from Hong Kong, Singapore, Dhaka, Karachi, Paro and Chengdu/Lhasa).OverlandThere are seven main entry points into Nepal, one from Tibet and six from India. Accessibility overland is dependant on political conditions as well as the weather. For the latest information about overland access, please visit Nepal Immigration.

Introduction to Nepal

2009-11-01T04:09:00.000+00:00

Introduction to Nepal
The great outdoors' are truly magnificent in Nepal. Rising up between the fertile plains of India in the south and the desert-like plateau of Tibet in the north, Nepal has been described as the biggest natural museum in the world. With its environment ranging from sub-tropical to artic, it's full of surprises. In addition to its infamous mountain range, Nepal has thick tropical jungles teeming with rare and endangered wildlife, thundering rivers inviting you to conquer them, forested hills and some awesome glaciers. That's a striking record for a country only 880km wide (E - W) and between 145km - 241km deep (N - S).While its population of approximately 23m people speak Nepali, Nepal comprises more than 61 ethnic groups and 70 dialects. These dialects can normally be heard more in rural areas outside Kathmandu, Nepal's capital city. Nepal's key religions, Hinduism and Buddhism will add extra colour to your visit as you'll see shrines to the Gods and experience festivals that take place throughout the year. Striving to differentiate itself from India, Nepal's standard time is 15 minutes ahead of Indian standard time and 5 hours 45 minutes ahead of GMT. The Nepali Rupee (Rs.) is available in denominations of one, two, five, 10, 20, 25, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 rupees. There are a growing number of ATM's in Kathmandu and other international currencies including the US dollar, Pound sterling and the Indian rupee are readily accepted in most places, although small denominations of the Nepali Rs. are a necessity out of the main cities.Communication is continually improving in Nepal. Internet and telephone services are widespread and reliable in Kathmandu and Pokhara. These facilities are becoming more readily available in other towns although the cost, speed and quality of connection can differ greatly. The same is true of electricity supply, which is found in major towns and some interesting outposts such as Namche Bazaar, 3343m above sea level!

Bhaktapur the ancient city of Nepal

2009-10-31T05:40:00.000+00:00

Introduction to Bhaktapur:

Located about 20 km east of Kathmandu in the Kathmandu Valley, Bhaktapur is known as the 'City of Devotees', the 'City of Culture', the 'Living Heritage', and 'Nepal's Cultural Gem'. It is one of the 3 royal cities in the Kathmandu Valley. The others are Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, and Patan.
Bhaktapur is filled with monuments, most terra-cotta with carved wood columns, palaces and temples with elaborate carvings, gilded roofs, open courtyards. The city is dotted with pagodas and religious shrines.
Lying along the ancient trade route between India and Tibet, Bhaktapur is surrounded by mountains and provides a magnificent view of the Himalayas.

RICE PLANTING CEREMONY IN NEPAL

2009-10-26T07:30:00.000+00:00

Nepali Ann - Arva Bijaya, Nepal sometime in the monsoon
So once having resigned myself that travel in the monsoon season is for hardier stock, I settled into the pace and lifestyle of rural village life. I am staying with my family here, the Sapkotas. There is home is in a valley nestled in the foothills below the mighty Annapurna range. I look out each day and all I see as far as I look is the beautiful green patchwork of the rice paddies laid out before me and carved up into the hillsides. It's harvest time and all the rice planted three months ago is ready to rock and roll. Rice planting is tough business, a long and drawn out process. It is no wonder rice is so holy and never a kernal wasted. After seeing how it's done, you would be picking it off the tabletop too.
First, seedlings are grown in small patches, dense and brilliantly green. They are grown prior to harvest and ready for replanting. As soon as the previous paddy is harvested, the men arrive with their ox. Still using the same ancient technology, the men wade behind the ox and plow in knee deep mud that houses scores of leeches. First they cut the earth with a large knife, then they change to a large comb that evens the earth out leaving behind a fine silt. Tractor plows are used in the Terai but here in the Mid-hills of Nepal, they cannot criss-cross the hilly terrain.
The job is back-breaking and their legs are scarred with leech infections. Often the ox have a mind of their own.
Once the paddy is ready, the baby rice plants are removed and transferred in bundles by the women.

Spread across the width of the paddy, each grasps a bundle of seedling and moving backward, replant them about three inches apart til the entire field is covered. Moving from paddy to paddy, they work in teams, their hands flying to place each blade of rice into the soft silt.

I tried my hand at planting, working all days in the fields with the women of Arva. Plunging into mud, it felt like quicksand, as I dropped in to my knees. Clutching my baby seedlings I proceeded to plant with deliberate care, making sure each blade was upright and evenly planted before taking steps backwards, my feet creating a sucking vacuum sound as I tugged them up and down. When I finally looked up, I realized that the women had completed the field and had left me with a foot-wide strip of unplanted earth to move backwards into. It looked like a swipe of a shaver across a field of stubble.
Things went fine for til I felt a stinging burn within the mud. I lifted my foot to discover what looked like a worm but felt like a drill press burrowing into my leg. LEECH! Trying hard not to panic, I screamed. The women next to me, quick as flash, pull out her machete and was about to give me a close shave, when she saw the look on my face. So instead, she took out a match from her Nepali version of a fanny pack ( fabric wrapped around her waist) and burned it off, jiffy quick.
They all found it pretty funny.
Some fields, depending on their proximity to irrigation, are more leech infested than others. In a bad paddy, the women either tug or slice one off every few minutes, not bothering to waste a match. What good would it do.
About a month and a half later, the women have to weed the fields, pulling up stray plants that threaten the harvest.

Those single blades of rice have now become large green bundles and all of Nepal is awash in color.

When it rains, the women wear a special basket they weave themselves. Between the layers of straw, they place plastic sheet. Inside, they string a tumpline to hang from their forehead. The ingenious design is a large circle folded in half, and when worn, it covers from their head to past their behind.
Here I am, Nepali Ann ...

Well now, I tried my hand at rice harvesting. Far easier. You just bend, cut and grab, bend, cut and grab. Over and over. Easy peesy lemon squeesy. If I could just handle the machete properly. Moving in row again across the field, the women sliced effortlessly through the rice stalks, while I was hacked and sawed my way through.
The women work, the boy runs around and collects the large bundles and takes them to a central area.

There, plastic tarps are spread out and the stalks are beaten over a rock to shake the rice loose.

The atmosphere at harvest seems happy. Children swarm around after school, playing in the leftover straw. Women sing songs and laugh and joke. Resigned to the flow of life, they make the most of it.

But nothing here is easy. 40 kg bags of rice are filled and transported to homes and warehouses the usual rural way. On their backs. It's called a dokko and it is a large jute strap that wraps around the forehead to the load on your back. Using your two hands to steady it, you carry 100 lbs on your bag, your neck muscles feeling like they are pressing into your spinal cord. Never twist your head, look with your whole body.
In return for risking spinal injury, I was rewarded with a steaming cup of chai for carrying the load of rice to this man's home.

In typical third-world fashion, nothing goes to waste in a process that has been refined over thousands of years.
After bagging the rice, the stalks are sifted to draw out further grains and separate rocks and other inedible matter.

Then the stalks are laid out in the sun to dry. Once they are completely dry, they are bundled and stored, feed for the animals for the next season.

Well, living all this time in one place cannot fail to change a person. I began adopting the local ways, how they live, how they work, how they eat, and esp. how they look.
So here is Nepali ann. Never fear, she will be arriving in your neighborhood soon, with her lungi, chollo, dokko, douri, churra, pote, khukri ...

Wedding ceremony in Nepalese society

2009-10-26T07:26:00.000+00:00

My friend Tikka is tying the knot in true Nepali fashion, an arranged marriage. They annouced the wedding about three weeks before the actual date. Tikka, up to the wedding, had only seen his bride to be once and they haven't spoken to each other at all.
The wedding was on April 14th, the second day of the Nepali New Year, a very auspicious day. It started early. Devi, Tikka's cousin, Sarita, his sister, Aama, his mother and I started out from his home in Arvabijaya village at 6:30 in the morning. Chitopani is a two hour trek away and we didn't want to miss any of the festivities. We walked through the valley to the base of a mountain and then began the long arduous trek up to Tikka's birthplace and home, where his mother still lives. Tika is a modern man, living and working in Lakeside, so I was a bit surprised that he chose an arranged marriage.

sacred fire surrounded by offerings
After an hour of climbing, we reached the top and went into the courtyard of his small home, which was so festively decorated. Outside, a small fire had been built and it was surrounded by numerous offerings, platters of food, leaf bowls of rice, scattered coins and colored powder decorated the ground in intricate patterns. All this was contained within a small tented area made by four bamboo poles and covered in flowers and lacy decorations. This sacred holy fire was also the site of the numerous rituals to follow. A traditional Nepali band played over on one side, drums, and strange high-pitched squeaky flutes.
As people arrive, they are greeted with tikka, red colored powder mixed with rice and water to form a paste that is applied to your forehead. Then offered fruit and sweets, specially prepared only at weddings.
Here I am enjoying some.

The rituals begins with villagers from all over gathering to officially send Tikka off. This is done by every person placing a 'tikka' on his forehead and placing money in his 'tope' the traditional Nepali men's cap. The first to do so are the married women of his family. He then presents them each with a gift of cloth, most often a sari.
Here is Tika and his mother giving the traditional blessing to each other. She has just been given a sari.
The line of people can is quite long and when Tika is finally finished, almost his entire forehead is covered.

Finally, when Tikka has been blessed by everyone, he sets out with his entourage, basically all the men, boys and young, unmarried girls of his family and friends. All the married women however stay behind, dancing, singing and eating in joyful expectation of his return with his bride.
The group headed back down the mountain, lead by the wedding band. We headed to the base of the mounatins where the vehicles Tika had rented were waiting.
The horns triumphantly announced our arrival at every village.

There was a small van for the young ladies. The sign on the front grill reads 'Shuba Bibaha' - Happy Wedding! It was a more sedate choice of transportation.

There was a rented car reserved for Tika and his close male friends. It was festooned with streamers, flowers and of course, more tikka powder.

The men and boys and of course, myself, loaded into the bus, the rowdier choice.

The top was reserved for the band and those who had worked themselves into marriage day frenzy. We took of down the street, and I watched in amazement, as people surfed the top of the bus, convulsing wildly to the frenetic music amid the hooting and hollering. We rode in this fashion, through the village site and on the road to Pokhara, taking the scenic route whenever possible to move as slowly as possible, but ever inextricably toward the bride's house.
Devi atop the bus and enjoying the moment...
We arrived and unloaded, walking past a festively decorated house and a huge tent set up with chairs and a long table for food. But we shuffled past to the back of the house, where we passed by a similar setup of sacred fire and offerings en route to a open area where two chairs and a small coffee table was set up. Tikka took a seat, and henceforth, the wedding rituals commenced.

News of Visit Nepal 2011

2009-10-25T10:04:00.000+00:00

To attract tourists from all over the world, Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation has come up with an ambitious plan, ‘Visit Nepal Tourism Year 2011’. Ministry is optimistic that this kind of events will increase tourist arrival and ultimately will create jobs and reduce poverty. In the budget government already committed fund to construct new international airport at Bara and upgrade few domestic airports. In addition, Ministry is searching for new trekking routes and looking to invest on infrastructure development. Previous such event was held back in 1998 as ‘Visit Nepal 1998’.

SUNRISE VIEW IN NEPAL

2009-10-25T05:38:00.000+00:00

Not only trekking and mountaineering but you also can have city tour in Nepal. The city in Nepal is considered the capital of temples, where you can see the temple every step that you take. Besides that, you also can go away Nagarkot to be far from jostle and bustle of the city. Nagarkot It is located at the altitude of 2211m, only 30 km north east of Kathmandu. It is a famous place to have a look the view of sunrise and sunset from the mountain ranges. Therefore, thousands of people do visit the place everyday.
From Nagarkot, you also can see the great views of Himalayas, including Annapurna, Langtang, Dorje Lakpa, Gauri Shanker and Ganesh Himal. As the views of Himalaya can only be approached from Nagarkot, the mountain flights takes from the same rout.
No doubt, you have to wake up at 4 or 5 o'clock in the morning to see the sunrise; according to the season otherwise you miss the spectacular views of changing color of the mountain that is due to sun rays that strikes on the mountains.
Itinerary in Detail
Day 01.
Arrive at Kathmandu airport (1345meters). You will be met by our representative and transfer to hotel and a short brief about the trekking after refreshment
Day 02.
Sight seeing in Kathmandu Darbar squire and in swayambunath( Monkey temple) in the morning and sight seeing in patan and Tibetan refugee camp in the afternoon after lunch. Kathmandu's Durbar Square:
Kathmandu's Durbar Square is one of three durbar (royal palace) squares of the Kathmandu city. This is the place of the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, which was the royal Nepalese residence until the 19th century and where important ceremonies, such as the coronation of the Nepalese monarch, still takes place these days. The palace is divided into two main chowks, and was originally constructed in the 16th century, although subsequent additions were made in the Shah (Gurkha) dynasty in the 18th century and by the Ranas in the 19th century. The palace is decorated with elaborately-carved wooden windows and houses the King Tribhuwan Memorial Museum, dedicated to the monarch who opened Nepal to the outside world, and the Mahendra Museum, dedicated to his son, King Mahendra. It is also possible to visit the State Rooms inside the palace. At the southern end of Durbar Square is one of the most curious attractions of Nepal, the Kumari Chowk., A young girl chosen through an ancient and mystical selection process to become the human incarnation of the Hindu mother goddess, Durga. She is worshipped during religious festivals and makes public appearances.
Swayambhunath(Monkey Temple):
Swayambhunath( Monkey Temple) is decorated with a colourful fluttering of prayer flags; it crowns a hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley and offers fantastic views over the Kathmandu city. Swayambhunath is one of the most identifiable symbols of Nepal and the painted eyes of Buddha watch all, who ascend the worn stone steps. It is listed in World Heritage Site and one of the holiest Buddhist site of Nepal, and is at the source of the Valley's fabulous beginning. Legend has it that the history of the Valley began with the draining of an ancient lake by an Enlightened Being to reveal the Valley and a lotus flower was transformed into this hill and the shining light became the stupa itself. Swarms of pilgrims and red-clad monks circle the complex, spinning the prayer wheels, while the scores of monkeys that give the temple its nickname, Monkey Temple.
Patan Durbar Square:
Patan Durbar Square is counterpart of Kathmandu valley, is an enchanting combination of palace buildings, artistic courtyards and graceful pagoda style temples. Listed as a World Heritage Site, the former royal palace complex is the center of Patan's religious and social life, and houses a museum containing a collection of bronze statues and religious objects. One remarkable monument here is a 17th-century temple dedicated to the Hindu god Krishna, built everything from stone.
Day 03.
Sight seeing in Pasupatinath temple and bouddhanath in the morning and sight seeing in Bhaktapur darbar squirein the afternoon.
Pashupatinath:
Pashupatinath is the most important Hindu temple in Nepaland this is one of the most important Shiva temples on the subcontinent and draws many devotees from all over India too. Pashupati is considered to have a special concern for the kingdom of Nepal. Pashupatinath, an ancient base, by the banks of the holy Bagmati River, stands the 16th century of Pashupatinath - Shiva, as Lord of all Creatures. The old buildings on the site were destroyed by Moslem invaders in the 14th century, its stone linga smashed to dust, but it rose again behind their retreating backs. Succeeding monarchs reinstated the temple and the images. The flowing Bagmati is a holy river and the ghats (crematorium) at its bank are the earnest Hindus truest cremation center.
Bouddhanath:
Bouddhanath is the largest stupas among in South Asia, and it has become the central point of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. The white mound looms thirty-six meters overhead. The stupa is located on the ancient trade route to Tibet, and Tibetan merchants rested and offered prayers here for many centuries. When refugees entered to Nepal from Tibet in the 1950s, many of them decided to live around Bouddhanath. They established many gompas, and the Little Tibet in Nepal . This "Little Tibet" is still the best place in the Valley to observe Tibetan lifestyle. Tibetans walk with prayer wheels in their hands, and the rituals of prostration are presented to the Buddha as worshippers circumambulate the stupa on their hands and knees, bowing down to their lord.
Nagarkot :
Nagarkot is a famous place to see the sunrise view of mountain ranges. It is located at the altitude of 2211m and is located 30 km north east of Kathmandu. If weather is good, you can see great views of Himalayas including Annapurna, Langtang, Dorje Lakpa, Gauri Shanker and Ganesh Himal. The mountain flight that goes every morning day to show Everest and other Himalayas from Kathmandu goes via the Nagarkot route.
Many people go to Nagarkot to see sunrise view. Once the sun begins to rise from behind the Himalayas, it looks spectacular as mountain changes its color. However to see the sunrise, you have to go to Nagarkot 4 o'clock in the morning.
Day 04.
see the sunrise view and drive to Bhaktapur. And sight seeing in Bhaktapur.
Bhaktapur:
Bhaktapur( City of devotees) covers an area of four square miles. Bhaktapur (city of devotees) still retains a medieval charm and visitors to this ancient town are treated to numerous wonders of cultural and artistic achievements. The past glory of the Malla rules continues to be reflected at the Darbar Square. Pottery and waving are its traditional industries. Bhaktapur is famous for woodcarving and the traditional topi( cap). The city located about 14 km east of Kathmandu. The places of interest include Bhaktapur Darbar Square, the National Art Gallery, Nyatapola Temple, Bhairavnath Temple, Dattatreya Temple and Dattatreya Square. Bhaktapur Durbar Square contains innumerable temples and other architectural showpieces such as lion gate, the golden gate, the statue of King Bhupatindra Malla.
Palace of 55 Windows Being built by King Yaksha Mall in 1427 A.D. and remodeled by King Bhupatindra Malla in 17th Century, the balcony and the windows are intricately carved is a masterpiece of wood carving.
Nyatapola Temple This five storied Pagoda Style temple was built by King Bhupatindra Malla in 1708 A.D. well known for its massive structure and subtle workmanship. It is the tallest pagoda structure in the Kathmandu valley.
Day 05.
Transfer to international airport for your final flight departure.

Tour in Kathmandu

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As Nepal is a beautiful country having diverse historical, cultural and religious sites, you can explore this virgin world only though tour. We 'Outfitter Nepal' is always committed to assist you to have any kinds of tour in Nepal so that you can explore the diversity, cultural and heritage sites, lifestyle of friendly people, flora and fauna etc of Nepal with the fullest.
Kathmandu is not only the capital city of Nepal but also known to be capital of temples and historical sites as there are many historical sites including Bhaktapur Durbar squar, Patan Durbar square, Kathmandu Durbar square, Pasupatinath temple, swayambunath , Bouddhanath and many more.
Besides Kathmandu, you can have a tour in Lumbini, the birth place of lord Budhha, Pokhara, which considers to be a paradise for the any kind of visitors, as there are Fewa lake, international mountain museum, Seti river, Mahendra cave, the great view of Himalayas including of Annapurna, Dhauligiri, Machapuchhre, Lamjung himal and many others. There is a list of tour program below, click for detail information:

JUNGLE SAFARI IN NEPAL

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Chitwan National Park (EXAMPLE)

is one of the best Parks in Nepal, established in 1973, where you can have a look of various species of birds, plants and animals including wildlife, flora and fauna. Chitwan is situated only 150m above the sea level, during the March-June the steamy covers all the way around. Whereas the short grass of Feb-May the best game-viewing season, but the autumn months are gorgeous with Himalayan views and in winter (December-January).

Nepal is best known with the beautiful mountains, but there are the Genetic flat lands of Terai that is stretched throughout the southern part of Nepal, which provide an entirely different experience. A visit to Nepal is incomplete without seeing the beauty of this Terai belt and no doubt Chitwan is the best place to do so.
How to get there?
By rafting:We can depart from Kathmandu at 7.00 A.M. by car/coach to Mugling (Confluence of Marshynagdi and Trisuli River) from where exciting rafting begins and floats down to a picnic spot for lunch along the river side and continues to destination, where our vehicle will be waiting to transfer you to Chitwan national park.
Or, we simply can departure from Kathmandu at 7.00 A.M by car/ coach for Chitwan National park on the Mugling-Narayanghat highway 175 km to the park. By Air:The air service is available from Kathmandu to Bharatpur everyday. It takes only about 20 min.

HIKING IN NEPAL

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fOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS BEAUTIFUL NATION CLICK HERE:

Nepal is very popular for trekking and Climbing, but very few know that Nepal is suitable place for hiking too, for those visitors who are inexperience in walking up and down on hills and who have little time to experience the high mountains of Majestic Himalayas and Nepalese culture they can choose these short and easy hiking trips. I have compiled a list of opportunities for short lowland hiking trip and walking tours in Nepal. Here is not much difference between Hiking and Trekking in Nepal. Hiking is an initial part of trekking and relatively easier that still involve up and down on rural hilly areas below 3000 meters but offers glimpse of High Mountains views, while trekking takes you through the low land village to high Mountain pass up to almost 5, 600 meters. Hiking is also the best option to see the beauty and the cultural diversity of Nepal for those who don't have enough time to do trekking and love to see its culture and nature. Hills of Nepal are very popular for hiking. Here are some hiking trips that we have described on this page are suited for all age people especially for the family groups and novices. Visit below listed trip,

CHISAPANI HIKING (SAMPLE)

Nagarkot is a famous place to see the sunrise view of mountain ranges. It is located at the altitude of 2211m and is located 30 km north east of Kathmandu. If weather is good, you can see great views of Himalayas including Annapurna, Langtang, Dorje Lakpa, Gauri Shanker and Ganesh Himal. The mountain flight that goes every morning day to show Everest and other Himalayas from Kathmandu goes via the Nagarkot route.
Many people go to Nagarkot to see sunrise view. Once the sun begins to rise from behind the Himalayas, it looks spectacular as mountain changes its color. However to see the sunrise, you have to go to Nagarkot 4 o'clock in the morning.

MOUNTAIN BIKING IN NEPAL

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Outfitter Nepal does not only organize tours and trekking but also various other adventurous activities including mountain biking as there are virtually millions of tracks out there।

There are hundreds of crisscross valleys, terraced fields, rice paddies, rivers and jungles and villages where various indigenous people reside, whose lifestyle has yet remained unchanged.
It is no doubt that mountain biking is the most versatile way of seeing the rural lifestyle of Nepalese people and explore the diversities of Nepal.
You can also have mountain biking tour along the Kathmandu valley, as it is known not only as the capital of Nepal but also the capital of temples, as it holds the greatest and historic features of diverse cultures and religions, arts and architecture, which only can be explored by biking.
You can have superb views of mountains, if you have a trail to the hillsides of the valley and no different experience even if you trail through the valley, as there are uncountable numbers of temples, monasteries which have yet been unexplored

राफ्टिंग इन NEPAL

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RAFTING IN NEPAL

Nepal is paradise for the Rafting, as it has earned the reputation of being one the best destinations for white water Rafting. The rivers in Nepal are the best among the rivers in the world for river rafting sports, and no doubt white water rafting in Nepal is never-ending thrills in the untamed rivers. Therefore, it is no doubt that cruising down to rushing rivers of crashing waves and swirling rapids can make up excitement of a lifetime.

You may have remarkable experience, while rafting/kayaking in white water in the rivers, as thundering waters coming from the glaciers of the great Himalaya in a Zig-Zag way, the variety of flora and fauna, the cultural heritage and charming smiles of innocence ethnic groups of people alongside the rivers are really awaiting of your arrival.

The waters in Nepal offer something for everybody: Grade 5-5+ rivers with raging white water rapids for the adventurous, to Grade 2-3 rivers, with a few rapids for novices. The options include paddling, oaring and kayaking. Paddling requires all on boat to participate with instructions from river runner. In an oar boat, the guide rows alone, giving participants a chance to observe the surroundings. Kayaking is another way to travel downstream.

You can package river running itineraries along with a trekking, a wildlife safari and a cultural tour in the area.

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There are some places in Nepal, which are restricted. These places have yet remained unspoiled wilderness, ecological and cultural museums where life has changed very little. A Personal experience of the different ways people arrange their lives in order to handle with their often harsh physical conditions. A journey full of questions and contrast awaits everyone who loves to visit those places.

पाक क्लिम्बिंग इन Nepal

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PEAK CLIMBING IN NEPAL

Peak Climbing in Nepal is so popular in the world that no where else in the earth can be found to be such a exciting places like Nepal, where you can have summit on the snow capped peaks and view the panoramic views of around.

Nepal is the home of the eight highest peaks of the world above 8000 meters and over 1300 peaks above 6,000 m. At present government has opened only 326 peaks for the purpose of expedition above 6,000m and additional 33 minor peaks have been designed as 'trekking peaks in Nepal. Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) allows the permission for summit between '18-22,000 ft'. The fee is payable based on the size of your group and the 'group' of the peak involved, but in recent days, it has become considerably easier to plan a trekking peak.

The table below set-out the names of the peaks, their heights and their locations.

To climb the summit, you need to have knowledge of ice-axe, crampons and rope usage. Moreover, you must be good in physical condition, as many peaks are above 6,000m, therefore, you must be able to be prepared for very cold temperatures, bad weather and the increased risk of altitude sickness.

The limited size of climbing group is 12, which is led by experienced guides registered with the NMA. The route is particularly planned to make sure of your safety and your best chances of success. Training will be given on climbing skills in which a basic understanding of climbing principles is required before attempting a peak.

एक्सपेडिशन इन Nepal

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Nepal is paradise for the expedition, as Nepal is one of the richest countries in the world in terms of mountains and bio-diversity, due to its unique geographical position and altitude variation. The elevation of the country ranges from 60 meters above sea level to the highest point on earth, Mt. Everest at 8,848 meters, all within a distance of 150 kilometers. The variation fosters an incredible variety of ecosystems, the greatest mountain range on earth, thick tropical jungles, teeming with a wealth of wildlife, thundering rivers, forested hills and frozen valleys.

The expedition is all about touching of Himalayas and having experience of adventure and as there are 8 mountains [out of 14] above 8,000 m high, including the highest mountain in the world, further more there are over 1,300 mountains above 6,000 m. Therefore, you can have expedition and various adventurous activities in Nepal that no where else in the world can be found.

Outfitter Nepal has enough expertise to help tourist have any kinds of expeditions in the mountains and anywhere else and any kinds of adventurous activities in Nepal.

Royalty for Mountain Expedition in Nepal

1. Name of the Mountain: Everest(8848M)

Climbing Route: South East Ridge (Normal Route)

Mountaineering Royalty Fee (In US $)

No. Of Climbers Spring Autumn Winter/Summer
One Climber 25,000 12,500 6,250
Two Climbers 40,000 20,000 10,000
Three Climbers 48,000; 24,000 12,000
Four Climbers 56,000 28,000 14,000
Five Climbers 60,000 30,000 15,000
Six Climbers 66,000 33,000 16,500
Seven Climbers 70,000 35,000 17,500
Per Extra Climber 10,000 5,000 2,500

Note: One Expedition Team has 15 members in maximum

2. Name of the Mountain: Everest (8,848m)

Climbing Route: All Routes except South East Ridge(Normal Route)

Royalty Fee (In US $)

No. Of Climbers Spring Autumn Winter/Summer
One Climber 15,000 7,500 3,750
Two Climbers 21,000 10,500 5,250
Three Climbers 27,000 13,500 6,750
Four Climbers 33,000 16,500 8,250
Five Climbers 39,000 19,500 9,750
Six Climbers 45,000 22,500 11,250
Seven Climbers 50,000 25,500 12,500
Per Extra Climber 10,000 5,000 2,500

Note: One Expedition Team has 15 members in maximum

3: Name of the Mountain: All Mountains above 8,000 m (except Everest)

Royalty in US Dollar

No. Of Climbers Spring Autumn Winter/Summer
One Climber 5,000 2,500 1250
Two Climbers 6,000 3,000 1500
Three Climbers 7,000 3,500 1,750
Four Climbers 8,000 4,000 2,000
Five Climbers 8,500 4,250 2,125
Six Climbers 9,000 4,500 2,250
Seven Climbers 10,000 5,000 2,500
Per Extra Climber 1,500 1,000 500

One Expedition Team has 15 members in maximum

4: Name of the Mountain: All Mountains above 7,501m to 7999M

Mountaineering Royalty Fee (In US $)

No. Of Climbers Spring Autumn Winter/Summer
One Climber 2,000 1,000 500
Two Climbers 2,400 1,200 600
Three Climbers 2,800 1,400 700
Four Climbers 3,200 1,600 800
Five Climbers 3,600 1,800 900
Six Climbers 3,800 1,900 950
Seven Climbers 4,000 2,000 1,000
Per Extra Climber 500 400 200

Note: One Expedition Team has 15 members in maximum)

5: Height of Mountain: All Mountains above 7,000m to 7500M

Mountaineering Royalty Fee (In US $)

No. Of Climbers Spring Autumn Winter/Summer
One Climber 1,500 750 375
Two Climbers 1,800 900 450
Three Climbers 2,100 1,050 525
Four Climbers 2,400 1,200 600
Five Climbers 2,600 1,300 650
Six Climbers 2,800 1,400 700
Seven Climbers 3,000 1,500 750
Per Extra Climber 400 250 150

6: Height of Mountain: All Mountains above 6501m to 6999M

Mountaineering Royalty Fee (In US $)

No. Of Climbers Spring Autumn Winter/Summer
One Climber 1,000 500 250
Two Climbers 1,200 600 300
Three Climbers 1,400 700 350
Four Climbers 1,600 800 400
Five Climbers 1,800 900 450
Six Climbers 1,900 950 475
Seven Climbers 2,000 1,000 500
Per Extra Climber 300 200 100

Note: One Expedition Team has 15 members in maximum

Note: If there is any change in the royalty amount before receiving the briefing from the Ministry even after one has already paid the royalty under this Regulation, the mountaineering expedition team shall pay the changed amount of the royalty.

Mountain Expedition Itineraries

Everest Expedition

Cho yu Expedition

Ama Dablam Expedition

त्रेअकिंग इन Nepal

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Trekking in Nepal: -
Trekking in Nepal is a paradise, as Nepal has been known to be the best destination for trekkers in the world. Nepal has some of the most spectacular, exciting and breathtaking trekking that nowhere can be found in the world, therefore, Trekking in Nepal is the special for mountain lovers, to those who would like to discover the diverse range of flora and fauna, varieties of the culture or simply to have special holidays in the majestic mountains.

Trekking in Nepal has known for 100 years, as the trekkers come to view the diverse lifestyle of the inhabitants in the mountain regions. No doubt, the hospitality of the people living the Himalayas enchants trekkers in such a way that they come again and again and have fondest memories of Nepal throughout their life.

Nepal is a country of friendly people belonging to many different ethnic groups, each having their own variety of culture, religion, festivals and castes etc.

Nepal owns the lowest elevation to the highest peak of the earth. Furthermore, of the 14 highest peaks above 8,000m in the world, Nepal owns over eight the highest mountains and over 1300 peaks above 6,000 m. Therefore, while you have a trekking in Nepal, you have a chance to explore these giant Himalayas on foot, there is no doubt that you will be exhilarated while you have holidays in Nepal.

Furthermore, most of trekking regions of Nepal are encompassed by national parks, which have a diverse range of wildlife, including rare and endangered species. So, when you have trekking, if you are lucky you may even spot tigers or elusive snow leopards in the Himalayan area.

Your trekking involves walking through diverse forests, from sub tropical to alpine as well as different landscapes, lush alpine meadows and rocky snow covered passes, ice falls, glaciers, high altitude and frozen lakes. Therefore, Nepal can be the best destination to spend your holiday with much thrill.

Visit Nepal 2011

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Visit Nepal 2011
Nature has given plentiful tourism resources to Nepal. The natural scenery, high mountains, incomparable cultural heritage, art, culture and numerous specialties have made Nepal a well-known destination in world tourism map with a distinct image of its own. Almost all world’s climate and ecosystem is available in Nepal, moreover cultural, geographical, ethnic and bio-diversities of the country allure international visitors to Nepal time and again.

Tourism is the mail economic source to earn the foreign currency; moreover it has given job to thousands of Nepali people.

Government of Nepal in consultation with Nepalese travel trade sector and concerned organizations/experts decided on October 25, 2008 to launch a national tourism campaign "Nepal Tourism Year 2011". This announcement reflects the government's anticipation to bring into Nepal at least one million international tourists by the year 2011 and tourism industry's exigency to organize a tourism promotion campaign for wider impact.

Objectives of Visit Nepal Year 2011.

- Establish Nepal as a choice of premier holiday destination with a definite brand image.
- Improve and extend tourism related infrastructures in existing and new tourism sites.
- Enhance the capacity of service providers.
- Build community capacity in the new areas to cater the need of the tourists.

There is no doubt that Nepal is the best destination to experience the trekking, mountain Expedition, River Rafting, Historical cities, Wild life Safari and many Adventure activities. Outfitter Nepal is an authorized company to plan and carryout all kinds of trekking, Expeditions, tours, Rafting, safari and all the adventurous activities in Nepal. So, we have made few featured Package to make easy for you to choose the package according to your desire and timefram