Nepal, World's Top choice for Traveling, Trekking and Holiday Making.

An incredible interactive four BILLION pixel image of Everest

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Sun, 17 Mar 2013 17:17:00 +0000

Try this incredible interactive four BILLION pixel image of Everest that lets you zoom in as if you were actually there on the mountain

Astonishing image was created from 477 photographs stitched together
Created by filmmaker David Breashears and nonprofit organisation GlacierWorks to highlight the effect of climate change on the area
Team also produced stunning 'then and now' pictures to show the effect climate change on the area since 1921
Working with Microsoft on even more detailed version

It is an astonishing image that shows the beauty and majesty of the Himalaya region.
A climber and film maker has created the stunning mosaic of images to show the effect of climate change on the the area surrounding Mount Everest.

The 477 individual images that make up the gigapixel image of the Khumbu glacier were captured by David Breashears during the spring of 2012, from the Pumori viewpoint near Mount Everest.

Click Here for the main picture link or Click the picture below.

'It's just extraordinary and we're so excited by that image, and people love clicking on things and zooming in,' he said.
'We want to tell the bigger story of climate change in the area, and we are working with Microsoft and the Royal Geographical Society on this.'
The team eventually hope to develop a far larger version of the image so detailed users can actually zoom inside tents at base camp
'Just 1/100th of our imagery is on the site, and the storytelling possibilities are incredible - people love to move things,' said Breashears, who has climbed Everest five times.
'It started out as a simple concept, and every time we visit we find out more - this is not even the tip of the iceberg, we want to take people all over the mountain with 120,000 pictures from a helicopter in the region.
'We are building this with Microsoft, and we could soon be able to combine the old and new pictures so people can virtually 'swipe' images to see how they looked in the past.'

The Himalaya region seen the in map, showing the major landmarks, including the South Col route taken by by Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay in 1953, which is now littered with the bodies of climbers

The team has also been working with the Royal Geographical Society in London to create a series of 'before and after' photographs showing the effect of climate change since 1921.
'It's a very interesting time to be looking at the mountain,' said Breashears.
'After a while I became interested in climate change, and how it was affecting the area.
'Out of that came the idea for matching photography with Royal Geographical Society to show the first images from Everest with current ones.'
The team now plans to combine the two projects into a vast interactive image of the area so detailed viewers can actually zoom into camps of climbers and see inside tents.
'We are hoping to launch the next version in June next year, and this is really just a placeholder for what we want to do.

'You'll be able to zoom into tents, and swipe pictures to see how the view has changed over time.'
Breashears has spent most of his career working in mountain areas.
'When I was 23 I wanted to be a mountaineer after seeing the picture from the top of Everest taken by Sir Edmund Hillary.
'I First went to Himalaya in 1979 to climb Ama Dablam near to Everest, which is over 22,000 feet high.
'I was also becoming interested in photography, so for the past 33 years have been on 5 Everest ascents, including the first live broadcast, and first IMAX film from Everest.
He also revealed he is currently working with Working Title films on a movie set on Everest.

Mount Everest is the Earth's highest mountain, with a peak at 8,848 metres above sea level.
In 1865, Everest was given its official English name by the Royal Geographical Society upon a recommendation by Andrew Waugh, the British Surveyor General of India. Waugh named the mountain after his predecessor in the post, Sir George Everest.
It has become a mecca for climbers, and has two main climbing routes, the southeast ridge from Nepal and the north ridge from Tibet.
The southeast ridge is technically easier and was the route used by Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay in 1953 when they reached the summit for the first time.

Click here for A wider view image of the same picture at Glacier Works

Sources: Onlinemail.co.uk
Glacierworks.org

Scooter Rally in the Valley

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 17:38:00 +0000

"All Women Scooty Rally - I AM POWERFUL" was organized in Kathmandu on March 8, 2012 on the occasion of International Women's Day. Photos by Nirnit Tandukar/TexasNepal

Coutesy: texasnepal

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 17:28:00 +0000

Nepal, once again, has officially become the country to have the world’s highest mountain as well as the shortest man!! 72-year old Chandra Bahadur Dangi, who measures 54.6cm tall, was recognised not only as the “shortest man ever” but also as “the shortest man living” by Guinness World Records in Kathmandu on Sunday (February 26). Dangi took the title of “the shortest man ever” from India’s Gul Mohammad who was 57cm tall before he died in 1997 at the age of 40. The native of the remote village of Purandhara-8, Rhimkholi in Dang also succeeded the current record Junrey Balawing of the Philippines (59.9cm, 23.5in) who had previously taken over the record of another Nepali Khagendra Thapa Magar (67cm, 26.4in).

Nepal on high: Himalayas trekking tips

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 18:58:00 +0000

iReporter Udayan Mishra captures trekkers as they walk their final steps to reach Annapurna base camp in Nepal.

(CNN) -- Magnificent snow-peaked summits and quaint thousand-year-old villages provide the backdrop for an unforgettable adventure in Nepal. Exploring the dramatic landscape on foot is nothing short of extraordinary, trekkers say.

"[One night] the back doors were open towards the view of Mount Everest and the other peaks of the Himalayas. It was so beautiful with snow-capped mountains and the sky was full of stars. I think that was one of the most magical moments I've ever had," says iReporter Kuna Rajandran, who trekked to Everest base camp in April.

Planning a Nepal expedition may seem daunting at first -- and you will be challenged -- but in the end, it¹s worth it. You will come away with some of the greatest memories of your life, from savoring locally cooked meals at teahouses to soaking in breathtaking views of the high Himalayas, according to adventurers who've made the trip.

There are endless options when it comes to planning a trek in Nepal. One of the most popular routes is the Annapurna Circuit, which loops around the base of the Annapurna range. And, of course, the more difficult Everest base camp trek is a magnet for many visitors.

"Beholding the sunrise taking its time was an amazing experience and was worth all the walk uphill. The Fishtail Mountain, 6,997 meters (22,950 feet) on left, seemed to have been waiting for the first rays of sunshine to fall on it for quite some time," says iReporter Udayan Mishra.

Experts urge travelers to be wary of individual porters and guides who approach you on the streets of Kathmandu. They are most likely uninsured, cautions Mohan Lamsal, general secretary of Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN). Have a detailed discussion with your chosen trekking company to assess their professionalism, Lamsal advises.

While booking in advance is a sure thing, some adventurous iReporters say making arrangements in Kathmandu is a convenient way to cut out the middleman.

iReporter Ruth Stewart says her two-week trek to Everest Base Camp was one of the most challenging treks she has ever done.

Be careful not to overestimate your abilities. Even if you feel completely comfortable with the people and the landscape and think you can make the trek on your own -- don't. Trekking with at least one companion is a must, especially if you're a beginner, experienced trekkers say.

Since both the Annapurna base camp and Everest Base camp treks are located in conservation areas, you will need permits, said iReporter Barry Wenlock, a Kathmandu resident and an experienced Himalayan trekker who has been leading tours since 1995. You can get permits before you begin or upon entry into the parks. Additionally, every trekker needs a Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) pass. You or your trip organizer can get this card, which is part of a database that stores visitor information for safety reasons.

iReporter Joseph Orona took this photograph of Mount Everest from a commercial aircraft flying from Lhasa, Tibet, to Kathmandu, Nepal.

When deciding on when to make your trek, there is generally one rule of thumb: Avoid the monsoon season (June through August). The most popular times to trek are late spring (March and April) and early to mid-fall (October and November), but keep in mind that is also when the trekking routes are busiest. To beat the rush, try going a week or two earlier or later, suggests Wenlock.

"This photo was taken on a dawn hike up to Kala Patthar, towards the end of a two-week trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp. It is about minus 30 degrees Celsius without taking into consideration the wind chill. A truly spectacular region - I can't wait to go back," says iReporter Ruth Stewart.

"There are such beautiful forests [at the foothills of the Annapurna], and it's Nepal's primary rhododendron forest, so if you visit there in the last week of March, first week of April, the rhododendrons are full and it's an absolutely staggeringly beautiful place. And the pink and red rhododendrons all up the hillside, a few magnolias mixed in, some jasmine," Wenlock says.

Before heading to Nepal, it's important not only to prepare your itinerary, but also your body. Even the mild or "Nepali Flat" parts of the "easier" Annapurna trek have their fair share of steep inclines.

"Walking around the golf course isn't enough -- you really need to do uphill walking. You can do that for a few weeks before you come, that will make it much easier," Wenlock says.

It's cold in Nepal -- really cold. Weather-appropriate supplies are a must for any trekker, novice or expert. Remember to pack your warmest down jacket and broken-in hiking boots as well as sun and eye protection.

Based on his experience trekking the Annapurna Circuit in 2009, iReporter Dean Gakos, an avid hiker, recommends watching out for knock-off gear, like fake North Face jackets, which he saw in Kathmandu. You don't want to climb up into the mountains only to realize your jacket contains synthetic down.

If you're planning on trekking up to higher altitudes, be cautious of altitude sickness. Warning signs include vomiting and weakness of the body, says Rajandran.

The first sunrise light hitting the mountains

iReporter Udayan Mishra, a Kathmandu resident who has been on several expeditions in Nepal, suggests taking the trek gradually to acclimatize yourself -- overexertion in the beginning may lead to problems later on.

Make sure you have enough Nepalese currency before you get on the path. Gakos recalls that there was "one ATM on the whole trek." And even if there is an ATM, there's no guarantee that it has been recently stocked with money.

There are two typical types of treks: the more popular teahouse trekking and a fully organized camping trip. A teahouse trek gives you the comfort of knowing that lodging and food will be provided. You can carry additional supplies -- clothing, snacks, sleeping bag -- on your own or hire a porter to carry it for you.

Once you finish walking, five to six hours on average per day, you settle down in a village. If you don't have a guide to recommend a teahouse, talk to other travelers and consult guidebooks for suggestions. In teahouses that provide lodging and food, guests are expected to eat at least two meals: dinner at night and breakfast the next morning, Gakos says.

Don't expect a hotel experience -- expect better. Nepali locals are known for being extremely kind and hospitable. Wenlock says you'll be treated like family during your stay. Gakos was looking for that kind of personal exchange.

'"That's why] we picked Annapurna, it was the perfect balance of wilderness and viewing the high Himalayas while also getting the Nepali culture," Gakos says.

Past visitors consistently praise trekking in Nepal as one of the best experiences of their lives. CNN iReporter Ruth Stewart, who trekked to the Everest Base Camp in winter 2010, says Nepal was the most beautiful part of the world she's ever been to.

Mount Machapuchrey as seen from its base camp. "I first trekked in Nepal in the early 1980s. Without doubt, Himalayan glaciers in Nepal have shrunk dramatically during this period," says iReporter Barry Wenlock.

Take advantage of the majestic mountains and the pristine landscape. Unlike many other mountain ranges, the Himalayan area in Nepal is practically untouched.

"Home to the highest monastery in Nepal, the Tengboche Monastery is situated in the Khumjung Valley, Solukhumbu, within the Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park, Nepal. A peaceful, quiet, chilled and serene place, it is also home for Buddhist monks," says iReporter Kuna Rajandran.

"There's no rubbish, there's no gondolas going up to the highest view, there's no cars, there's no traffic -- it's just complete serenity and it's just the most incredible experience," Stewart said.

See More at Trekking in Nepal

Source: cnn.com

World Away in Kathmandu Nepal.

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 18:52:00 +0000

Picturesque Kathmandu, Nepal, is a fabled city that has long ranked among the most exotic in the world in many travelers' minds. It's also the starting point for many a journey through Nepal, although it's quite an adventure in itself. Christa Gockel, a resident of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, visited Kathmandu in 2008 while on holiday in the country. "Kathmandu is the first place you see when you come to Nepal," she said. This photo shows Durbar Square in Patan, one of three such plazas in the Kathmandu Valley. They stand as legacies of the Old World, and are at the heart of Nepal's cultural and spiritual spheres.
Please see Colorful cultural explorations in Kathmandu

Source:cnn.com

Chinese govt to fund ring road expansion

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 11:42:00 +0000

KATHMANDU,DEC 8, 2011

Nine-kilometre stretch of the 10-lane ring road is being redesigned in coordination with the government of People’s Republic of China.

According to the Ministry of Physical Planning and Works, the ring road stretch between Kalanki and Tinkune, will be expanded to 10 lanes by July 2014.

“The Chinese technical team is preparing the design. The team recently completed the field visit and started the designing process,” said Tulasi Prasad Sitaula, secretary at the MoPPW. “The bidding process will be over within six months and the Chinese government will send the contractors to carry out the construction by the next fiscal year,” he added.

The 10-lane ring road will have four central lanes, two service tracks on each side and one cycle-cum-walking lane on each side. The total right of way of the ring road will be 62 metres, according to the MoPPW.

Two major motor bridges will be built between Kalanki and Tinkune, apart from overhead bridges. “These will include pedestrian bridges and flyovers for vehicles at major intersections,” said Sitaula. “The construction will begin next fiscal year and is likely to be completed in another two years.” China will provide 350 million yuans to complete the nine km stretch of the ring road. China has also assured the Nepali government to assist in the development of remaining section of the ring road, claimed the Ministry of Physical Planning and Works officials.

The Kathmandu Metropolitan City and the MoPPW had permitted Innovative Concept Nepal, a private company, to construct three overhead bridges along the ring road at Kalanki, Balaju and Machhapokhari in the last fiscal year. The construction of the three-storey overhead bridges had begun but a few weeks ago the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee ordered dismantling of the bridges for the development of the ring road. The contractor should demolish the construction on its own expenses as per the agreement with the government made last year, according to the Ministry of Physical Planning and Works.

The work to expand road from Maitighar to Tinkune (about 3 km) to six lanes is on. The process to clear the encroached land has been completed, said Sitaula.

Innovative Concept Nepal was also permitted to construct three-storey overhead bridge at Naya Baneshwor, along with the ring road overhead bridges. However, the construction of overhead bridge at Baneshwor is unlikely to happen, said the ministry officials.

10-lane stretch

• Nine km section of ring road between Kalanki and Tinkune to be expanded to 10 lanes

• Chinese govt to fund 350 million yuans

• Construction to begin next fiscal and will be completed by July 2014

Source: THT

Micheal Learns To Rock (MLTR) live performance in Kathmandu Nepal

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 17:33:00 +0000

Micheal learns to Rock ROCKS KATHMANDUDES!!!

THE ACTOR

Video Source: ManishForGood youtube

Micheal learns to Rock a danish band performs its first live concert in Tudikhel in Kathmandu, Nepal today beginning the show from 5 pm onwards to 8:30 pm.

Three band member Jascha Richter (vocalist and keyboardist), Kare Wanscher (drummer) and Mikkel Lentz (guitarist) showed their best performance as the crowd cheered and rhymed along with them. Every body had a great time and even the cross over bridges outside the Tudikhel was packed and securities had to move them again and again.
It was the most rocking night for Kathmandu people after Bryan Adam Left his memorable night.

"I love Nepal. We are really excited, and have been waiting for twenty years to perform in Nepal. Now, the dream has come true"

shared band front man Jascha Richter. Another band person Mikkel Lentz puts it.

After a huge show from Bryan Adams' successful live performance in Kathmandu on Feb 2011, MTLR is the second western band performing for live Nepalese audience inside the valley.

Both the events have been organized by ODC Network.

A Promo video on their website was put like this

Find Tickets for Next Event. Click Here Now!

Sherpa & Sunuwar For NatGeo’s Adventurer of the Year

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 17:22:00 +0000

For seven years, National Geographic has been searching across the globe to find Adventurers of the Year. In other words, they strive to introduce outstanding individuals who have made remarkable achievements in exploration, conservation, and adventure sports in a particular year. This year, they have selected men and women who are pioneering innovation in the world of adventure. And landing under their selection are a duo from our homeland Nepal!

Lakpa Tsheri Sherpa and Sano Babu Sunuwar are the two Nepalis who completed a mission to launch a paraglider from Mount Everest’s summit and kayak the Ganges to the Indian Ocean. Yes, Sherpa and Sunuwar made the Ultimate Descent. Hence, they have been chosen as one of the 10 candidates for the People’s Choice Award for their outstanding work! If you think the duo embodies the spirit of adventure the best, then place your vote for them and help them claim the title of the People’s Choice Adventurer of the Year 2012.

You can vote every day through January 18, 2012. The winner will be announced in February 2012.

Click here to vote for them.

Nepali Migrant Workers in The Middle East are Unknowingly Being Sold Into Slavery.

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 08:38:00 +0000

Belonging to the overlooked, poorest segments of the Nepalese population, these workers dream of better lives abroad, only to find themselves put into slavery and appalling work conditions in the Middle East in the process.

The Guardian's Pete Pattison investigates the plight of Nepalese migrants who say they were duped by unscrupulous agents into being trafficked abroad. Once stranded, they are fully at the mercy of their employers, subject to abuse and in some cases, even death.

"She was forced to work in two or three houses and she was beaten as well," says the relative of one Nepalese woman who was killed after she relocated to Lebanon in search of a better life. "So she asked the agent to send her home and the agent asked for money...we were told, 'You'll see your woman in a coffin.'"

But such stories do little to deter job seekers in Nepal -- a nation where some locals reportedly get by on a mere $2.00 a day -- and the queue for passports continues.(as reported by huffington post on April 12, 2010.)
Is it Illiteracy, physical weakness or morale weakness for being in such condition?

Gurkha who fought off 30 Taliban by himself awarded honour

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 20:22:00 +0000

A Gurkha soldier who single-handedly fought off up to 30 Taliban militants in Afghanistan, even using his gun's tripod when he ran out of bullets, was on Friday awarded Britain's second highest medal for bravery.

Acting Sergeant Dipprasad Pun used up all of his ammunition and resorted to using his machine gun tripod to repel an attack in Afghanistan in September.

The 31-year-old Gurkha, of Ashford, Kent, said he was a "lucky guy" and very proud to get the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross, BBC reported.

A total of 136 UK servicemen and women are being honoured, four posthumously.

Pun was on sentry duty at a checkpoint near Babaji, in Afghanistan's Helmand province, on September 17 last year when he spotted insurgents trying to plant a bomb beside the front gate.

Moments later, militants opened fire on the compound from all sides.

For more than a quarter of an hour, alone on the roof, Gurkha Pun fought off an onslaught from rocket-propelled grenades and AK-47s.

In total, he fired more than 400 rounds, launched 17 grenades and detonated a mine.

At one point, when an insurgent tried to climb up to his position, his rifle failed and he resorted to throwing his machine gun tripod to knock him down.

Pun, who is originally from the Nepalese village of Bima, believed at the time that there were up to 30 attackers.

The citation on his medal - which is only one level below the Victoria Cross - states that he saved the lives of three comrades who were inside the checkpoint at the time.

See More of this story with comments.

Nepal has 155 adult tigers, 5% of world population

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Sun, 08 Aug 2010 17:39:00 +0000

KATHMANDU: The number of adult tiger has reached 155 in Nepal's forests, an increase of 28% over last year's population, a top official has said.

The tiger population grew after tiger census was conducted in the Chure area of Chitawan National Park, which was skipped during last year's census, according to Coordinator of the Tiger census 2010 Bivash Pandav, an Indian national, who is working under World Wildlife Fund Nepal office in Kathmandu.

The number of adult tiger has reached 155 in Nepal's forests which is an increase of 28%, announced Gopal Prasad Upadhyaya, director general of Department of National Park's and Wildlife Conservation.

Though this not an increase in tiger population in actual term, but the number has also not declined in the region, he said. In Chitawan National Park located in central Nepal alone, 125 tigers were recorded.

Last year only 91 tigers were found when the census was carried out only in the lowland of the tiger reserve.

The total adult tiger population of 155 (124 to 229) was arrived at after adding other tiger populations from Bardia, Shuklaphanta and Parsa reserves.

The census was done through the latest process of camera trapping which required 3,582 human days and 170 elephant days, according to experts at WWF Nepal.

The monitoring of tiger was done from December 7, 2009 to March 22, 2010. As per the census it is estimated that the tiger area of Nepal has 6.53 adult tigers in 100 km area, which is a good population for breeding purposes, say experts.

Okay This is a good news for animal lovers as well as wild life animal protection activists. WWF Nepal has provided Nepal government with $51,351 to carry out the tiger census. This means Nepal is home to nearly 5 per cent of tiger in the wild worldwide which is estimated to be 3,200. This means Nepal is setting a good example on preserving wild animals that are being extinct due to several causes.

There are 13 tiger range countries in the world including Nepal, India, China and Myanmar. The tiger range
countries have been working together to conserve the endangered wild animal tiger, to make the number double or around 7,000 in next Year for Tiger 2022.

Nepal government is also committed to double the tiger population to 250 by the year 2022, said minister for forest Dipak Bohara. The government is committed to control poaching, increase tiger habitat and prey animals with a view to double the tiger population in the next 12 years, he said.

SLC RESULTS (2065) BREAKING NEWS

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 13:33:00 +0000

A higher number of students have passed in last years SLC exam.
The Office of the Controller of Exams published the results of the School Leaving Certificate (SLC) exams taken in March. 68.47 percent examines have passed the exam.
234,602 regular students passed S.L.C while 21,887 passed in the exempted category.
Congratulation to all those who passed and best of luck for next time to those who got back.

Please click here for full result.

Michael Jackson “Thriller” Greatest Album Ever According To MTV Poll

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 06:34:00 +0000

Michael Jackson’s 1983 LP Thriller has been named the “Greatest Album Ever” in a new poll from MTV. The pop superstar’s Quincy Jones-produced album–which featured hits like “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” “Thriller,” and “The Girl Is Mine”— is the world’s best-selling album and dominated a poll of MTV viewers.

“I don’t think there’ll ever be another album like it in the history of music,” says MTV Base presenter Trevor Nelson. “There will never be a marriage of producer and artist, or songwriting and pop sensibility like that again. Due to the way people buy records now, there’ll never be an album that sells as many copies.”

More than 40,000 votes were cast by fans asked to choose their favorite album since 1981 from a shortlist of 26 LPs. The final list was then compiled by music industry experts from MTV’s three UK channels - MTV2, VH1 and MTV Base.

MTV’s Greatest Album Ever Top 20:

Michael Jackson - “Thriller”

Craig David - “Born To Do It”

Guns N’ Roses - “Appetite For Destruction”

Radiohead - “OK Computer”

Nirvana - “Nevermind”

Oasis - “(What’s The Story) Morning Glory?”

Oasis - “Definitely Maybe”

U2 - “The Joshua Tree”

Arctic Monkeys - “Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not”

Amy Winehouse - “Back to Black”

The Strokes - “Is This It?”

Kanye West - “The College Drop Out”

The Stone Roses - “The Stone Roses”

Eminem - “The Marshall Mathers LP”

The Smiths - “The Queen Is Dead”

Rage Against The Machine - “Rage Against The Machine”

Prince and The Revolution - “Purple Rain”

REM - “Automatic For The People”

Usher - “8701?

Pixies - “Doolittle”

The Notorious B.I.G - “Ready To Die”

Lauryn Hill - “The Mis-education of Lauryn Hill”

Human League - “Dare”

Jay-Z - “Blueprint”

Dizzee Rascal - “Boy In Da Corner”

Mary J. Blige - “What’s the 411?”

Thriller award.

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 06:14:00 +0000

'King' ascendent: Michael Jackson wasn't yet known as the "King of Pop" when he collected eight Grammys for his "Thriller" album.

Michael Jackson set a Grammy record Tuesday night by finishing first in eight categories in the record industry's 26th annual awards ceremony.

The victories during a nationally televised program at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles shattered the Grammy mark of six established by Roger Miller in 1965, the year his "King of the Road" dominated charts.Accepting the best album award for "Thriller" early in the program, a nervous and generally taciturn Jackson, said, "This is a great honor…I'm very happy."When he later picked up the record-breaking Grammy, the 25-year-old pop sensation took off his dark glasses in a victory salute.

The awards show was held on the same stage where Jackson suffered second- and third- degree burns Jan. 27, when his hair caught fire during the taping of a television commercial.Jackson, whose "Thriller" is the biggest-selling album ever at 27 million, was also cited for best record ("Beat It") and as best vocalist in three areas: pop, rock and rhythm and blues.He also won best children's album ("E.T. the Extraterrestrial"), best rhythm and blues song ("Billie Jean") and best record producer, an award he shared with Quincy Jones.Jackson's sweep overshadowed the four victories in the classical competition by Sir Georg Solti. The awards gave Solti a career total of 23 Grammys, three more than the former leader, Henry Mancini.

King of Pop dies at 50. (Legendary pop star had been preparing for London comeback tour)

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 05:33:00 +0000

Michael Jackson, the sensationally gifted child star who rose to become the “King of Pop” and the biggest celebrity in the world only to fall from his throne in a freakish series of scandals, died Thursday. He was 50.
Jackson died at UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles. Ed Winter, the assistant chief coroner for Los Angeles County, confirmed his office had been notified of the death and would handle the investigation.
The circumstances of Jackson’s death were not immediately clear. Jackson was not breathing when Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded to a call at his Los Angeles home about 12:30 p.m., Capt. Steve Ruda told the Los Angeles Times. The paramedics performed CPR and took him to the hospital, Ruda told the newspaper.

Jackson’s death brought a tragic end to a long, bizarre, sometimes farcical decline from his peak in the 1980s, when he was popular music’s premier all-around performer, a uniter of black and white music who shattered the race barrier on MTV, dominated the charts and dazzled even more on stage.
His 1982 album “Thriller” — which included the blockbuster hits “Beat It,” “Billie Jean” and “Thriller” — is the best-selling album of all time, with an estimated 50 million copies sold worldwide.
The public first knew him in the late 1960s, when as a boy he was the precocious, spinning lead singer of the Jackson 5, the music group he formed with his four older brothers. Among their No. 1 hits were “I Want You Back,” “ABC” and “I’ll Be There.”

Ranked with Elvis, Beatles

He was perhaps the most exciting performer of his generation, known for his feverish, crotch-grabbing dance moves and his high-pitched voice punctuated with squeals and titters. His single sequined glove, tight military-style jacket and aviator sunglasses were trademarks second only to his ever-changing, surgically altered appearance.
“For Michael to be taken away from us so suddenly at such a young age, I just don’t have the words,” said Quincy Jones, who produced “Thriller.” “He was the consummate entertainer and his contributions and legacy will be felt upon the world forever. I’ve lost my little brother today, and part of my soul has gone with him.”
Jackson ranked alongside Elvis Presley and the Beatles as the biggest pop sensations of all time. He united two of music’s biggest names when he was briefly married to Presley’s daughter, Lisa Marie, and Jackson’s death immediately evoked that of Presley himself, who died at age 42 in 1977.

As years went by, Jackson became an increasingly freakish figure — a middle-aged man-child weirdly out of touch with grown-up life. His skin became lighter, his nose narrower, and he spoke in a breathy, girlish voice. He surrounded himself with children at his Neverland Ranch, often wore a germ mask while traveling and kept a pet chimpanzee named Bubbles as one of his closest companions.

“It seemed to me that his internal essence was at war with the norms of the world. It’s as if he was trying to defy gravity,” said Michael Levine, a Hollywood publicist who represented Jackson in the early 1990s. He called Jackson a “disciple of P.T. Barnum” and said the star appeared fragile at the time but was “much more cunning and shrewd about the industry than anyone knew.”
Jackson caused a furor in 2002 when he playfully dangled his infant son, Prince Michael II, over a hotel balcony in Berlin while a throng of fans watched from below.

In 2005, he was cleared of charges he molested a 13-year-old cancer survivor at Neverland in 2003. He had been accused of plying the boy with alcohol and groping him, and of engaging in strange and inappropriate behavior with other children.
The case followed years of rumors about Jackson and young boys. In a TV documentary, he had acknowledged sharing his bed with children, a practice he described as sweet and not at all sexual.
Despite the acquittal, the lurid allegations that came out in court took a fearsome toll on his career and image, and he fell into serious financial trouble.

Comeback had been planned

Jackson was preparing for what was to be his greatest comeback: He was scheduled for an unprecedented 50 shows at a London arena, with the first set for July 13. He was in rehearsals in Los Angeles for the concert, an extravaganza that was to capture the classic Jackson magic: showstopping dance moves, elaborate staging and throbbing dance beats.

Singer Dionne Warwick said: “Michael was a friend and undoubtedly one of the world’s greatest entertainers that I fortunately had the pleasure of working with. ... We have lost an icon in our industry.”

Hundreds of people gathered outside the hospital as word of his death spread. The emergency entrance at the UCLA Medical Center, which is near Jackson’s rented home, was roped off with police tape.
“Ladies and gentlemen, Michael Jackson has just died,” a woman boarding a Manhattan bus called out shortly after the news was announced. Immediately many riders reached for their cell phones.

So many people wanted to verify the early reports of Jackson’s death that the computers running Google’s news section interpreted the fusillade of “Michael Jackson” requests as an automated attack for about half an hour Thursday evening.

In New York’s Times Square, a low groan went up in the crowd when a screen flashed that Jackson had died, and people began relaying the news to friends by cell phone.
“No joke. King of Pop is no more. Wow,” Michael Harris, 36, of New York City, read from a text message a friend sent to his telephone. “It’s like when Kennedy was assassinated. I will always remember being in Times Square when Michael Jackson died.”
Of course we're going to miss him. I really wanted to see his come back performance.

What was your favorite song of Micheal Jackson?
Do you think he was the greatest pop star?

Timeline of the Super Star (1958 aug 29 to 2009 jun 25)

A view from top of Sundhara Tower.

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Sun, 17 May 2009 17:20:00 +0000

Most Nepalis might have gone up at Sundhara Tower since it began public to go up and view Kathmandu valley from there.

Here are few snaps.

View of Tudikhel. No matter what we imagine from down below, the view from top is always a different experience. An eagle eye view. Which one is better? google earth or this?

Nepal Telecom office's new building construction, the street vendors crowd, Sahid Gate and far right, the army trainning office.

A straight down view from top. A little bit of itching does occur under your feet.

Auto Rikshaw Rally

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Sun, 17 May 2009 16:36:00 +0000

An Auto Rikshaw Rally was organized from Amsterdam and they travelled all way from there to Kathmandu after completing few routes in India. They settled for few hours at Basantapur Durbar Square in Kathmandu and went back to India's city Calcutta.

10 am at Basantapur. Crowd gathered and passed by to see what it was. Tempo, as we Nepalis call it are passed things, specially in Kathmandu to reduce noise and smoke pollution. They got banned few years back. Hope Government has few left for later generations to see in the musuems.

Rikshaws had open spaces on the drivers seat without doors and had loudspeakers for music to ease the travel.

It was all painted colorfully and revived the transport we once had few years back for a while.

Travellers/Riders had cameras and all the equipments for showing it on Television later on.

Govt to provide all kind of assistance to the boy hero.

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 12:33:00 +0000

A government secretary on Saturday announced that the government would provide all the assistance to the boy hero, Kamal Nepali, needs."To respect his bravery, the government is ready to provide overall assistance that he needs," said Secretary at Ministry of Women, Children and Social Welfare, Puspa Pradhan at a felicitation program in the capital.

While he was asked what he wants to be in the future, Kamal said, "I want to read, write and become a doctor," said the 11-year old who became the national hero in short after rescuing a two-and-half-year girl who had fallen into a 60-feet Seti river gorge with a very narrow crack in Pokhara a few days ago. Answering a query what he wants to do in the days to come, Kamal said, "I also want to rescue anybody if they fall again." At the mean time, Kamal has been flooded with offers of money and free education. And he has had tough time trying to attain all felicitation programs. His father said he finds no time to sleep, eat or enjoy attending the programs and giving interviews to the media. "He attends no fewer than five such programs in a day." This has been the routine for the last five days, he said.
The main story

More than 20 hours had past and rescue squad consisting of Nepal Army, Police, Trekkers and Locals were frustrated and tired. Even after their continuous effort, attempts and re-attempts they were not able to rescue two and half year old girl, who had fallen in narrow gorge some 60 meters down below the ground. [gorge of Seti river in Pokhara, Nepal].
Then our Hero “Kamal Nepali” comes forward and volunteers himself for the rescue operation. Not knowing what lies ahead into that dark and mysterious gorge. Rescuers saw the hope as his body was small enough to crawl deep inside the gorge. But some objected pointing at his age and size, but our hero was determined and he insisted. He was the best available option left there.
After half an hour into the unknown, Kamal appears with the girl. Mission accomplished, he SAVED LIFE that day. Crowd cheered and applauded, everybody including girl’s father hugged him, and there was tears of joy everywhere.
Next day I read two liners in Newspapers, “Teen saved girl’s life”, It should have been on the front page.
Scene for the movie Enemy at the Gates:Stalin’s envoy Nikita Khrushchev comes to Stalingrad and warns a group of Soviet political officers, “If the Germans capture this city, the entire country will collapse.” Khrushchev demands suggestions as to how to motivate Soviet troops to stand up to the Germans, and Danilov proposes, “What we need are heroes.” “Do you know any heroes around here?” asks Khrushchev, to which Danilov replies, “Yes, Comrade, I know one.”
Don’t you think even NEPAL needs many HEROS like Kamal, at this juncture of time??

What next for our Country?

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 05:47:00 +0000

With the ending of the monarchy in Nepal, what is ex-king Gyanendra planning to do now - and what will take the place of the crown?

Thousands gathered on the streets of the capital and near the assembly in support of "republic day".

There are reports that Gyanendra and his ex-queen, Komal, are already packing to leave the royal palace, Narayanhiti.
The lowering of the royal flag and the removal of the royal insignia from the gates by palace staff suggest as much.
Moving might not be too painful - the 1960s palace was the scene of the 2001 royal massacre and it was some time after his brother was killed before the new king moved in there.
Two royal hunting lodges near the city would be tempting alternatives but both are on government land.
He may therefore move into the private residence of Jeevan Kunj, next door to his son.
Gyanendra's ageing stepmother, Ratna, has lived in a lodge at Narayanhiti since she married, so the shift will be harder for her.

Supreme commander

Although they have had months to think about it, Nepal's politicians are still arguing about the new, temporary constitutional arrangements.

Clearly the republic will need a president during these two years while a completely new constitution is being written.
It is now agreed that he or she will have a largely ceremonial post but will be the supreme commander of the army, with emergency powers exercised on cabinet advice.
Maoist leader Prachanda, whose party is the biggest in the assembly, had repeatedly said he wanted the post - but that is because the Maoists still want a more powerful, executive presidency in the long run.
For now he accepts it will be someone else.
"There would have been resistance against his being supreme army commander," says Damakant Jayshi of the Kathmandu Post.

Prime contenders?

So who will it be? Nepal-watchers differ.

There is a common assumption that it will be the current prime minister, the wily 84-year-old Girija Prasad Koirala, whose dynastic family is Nepal's answer to the Gandhis or the Bhuttos.
"For all his faults, he's as uncontroversial a person as you could find to perform the function," says Rhoderick Chalmers of the International Crisis Group.
Damakant Jayshi says: "Koirala is inclined to become president - if this is the case, Koirala gets it!"
But Yubaraj Ghimire of Samay weekly newspaper says many in the Nepali Congress party and outside it are fed up with Mr Koirala, whom he describes as "overrated by the international community" and still driven by ambition despite his age.
He predicts powerful voices in favour of Bishwanath Upadhyay, a former chief justice, or Ram Raja Prasad Singh, a veteran and militant pro-republican.
Whoever it is will have to be elected by the 601 assembly members, by a simple majority.
Until that happens, Nepal will technically have no head of state at all.
Maoist coalition
There will also be a prime minister. Prachanda is firm favourite here, and Mr Koirala has already asked him to explore the possibility of forming a government.

Then there is the question of which parties join the government.
As the surprise winners in the April election, the Maoists - who ended their insurgency only two years ago - will lead it and, lacking a majority, want to keep a broad coalition.
It seems likely that they and three other parties - the Nepali Congress (NC), the Unified Marxist-Leninist party (UML) and the newly formed regional group, the Madhesi People's Rights Forum (MJF) - will share out the top posts. Police have been deployed to disperse demonstrators
Cohabitation may not be easy. Over the past 18 months the Maoists and the MJF have frequently been at each other's throats in the strife-torn south-east of Nepal.
Fourteen months ago over 20 Maoists were killed in clashes with their MJF rivals in one town. The NC and the UML are still licking their wounds after their heavy electoral losses to the Maoists.
Those are not the only centres of power in Nepal.

Enshrining rights

For all the publicity given to the republic decision, perhaps the most remarkable feature of Wednesday was the actual convening of the Constituent Assembly elected last month.
The body has 601 members and is far more representative of Nepal's diversity than any previous legislative body.

Most notably, one-third of its members are women, which according to the United Nations puts Nepal in 14th place in the league table of women's representation in national elected bodies.
As they work out a new constitution over two years, these newly represented groups will be hoping to enshrine their own rights as never before.
Then there are the Maoists' own power structures, some dating from their insurgency years, some nurtured since then - especially the Young Communist League (YCL) which is notorious for thuggish behaviour but professes to be devoted to social service.
"I hope the Maoists see sense and realise there's no logic in parallel structures," says Rhoderick Chalmers.
"But it's tricky, and they will need new things for the YCL to do."
The same questions apply to the Maoists' army, still largely confined in 28 camps.
While the Maoists want them merged with the national Nepal Army, the latter's chief is vocally unwilling to accept them.
With the Maoists now in the ascendancy in the government, yet still encumbered with the baggage of a guerrilla group, many questions remain about power structures in the new Nepalese republic.

More pictures of Nepal

The Himalayan nation has become the world's newest republic, ending 240 years of monarchy

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 05:25:00 +0000

A constituent assembly meeting in the capital, Kathmandu, overwhelmingly voted to abolish royal rule.
The Maoists, the largest party after laying down arms and standing in last month's elections, were committed to ousting King Gyanendra.
People celebrated wildly in the streets of the capital after news of the assembly vote.
The approved proposal states that Nepal is "an independent, indivisible, sovereign, secular and an inclusive democratic republic nation".
Only four members of the 601-seat assembly opposed the change.

Royal privileges "will automatically come to an end", the declaration says.
It also states that the king's main palace must be vacated within a fortnight, to be transformed into a museum.
"I am overjoyed," student Rajesh Subedi, 21, told AFP news agency as Kathmandu celebrated.
"This is the most important day of my life."
The BBC's Charles Haviland in Kathmandu says it is not clear how soon King Gyanendra will leave.
The Maoists and other politicians are being conciliatory about the monarch now being ousted and say he should live on in Nepal as a private citizen.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/7423182.stm

source: bbc

In pictures: Nepal ends royal rule

What will Nepal's future in the hand of new republic government? please write comments. Do we still need King or not? Do we keep King only if we need or give him certain place ourself?

Maoist leader wins seat in Nepal election

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 06:16:00 +0000

After spending a decade leading a communist insurgency in the mountains of Nepal, former top rebel Prachanda became the newest member Saturday of an assembly that will chart the Himalayan country's future.
Prachanda, whose rebel nom de guerre means "the fierce one," led a powerful showing by the former Maoists rebels in early results from Thursday's elections. The vote is expected to usher in sweeping changes to the Himalayan country and likely signals the end of a 239-year-old royal dynasty.
The Maoists, have so far won 20 out of the 34 constituencies where counting has been completed, the Election Commission said Saturday.
"This victory is a command by the Nepali people to establish lasting peace," Prachanda, 54, told reporters after the result was announced. "We are fully committed to the peace process and multiparty democracy and to rebuild this country."
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, whose Carter Center sent 62 observers to monitor the election, described the election as one of the "most profoundly important" ones he has witnessed. He said it marked the end of a decade of political violence and the likely transformation of Nepal from a Hindu kingdom to a democratic republic.
"If the Maoists do gain a substantial share of power, I hope the United States will recognize and do business with the government," Carter said at a news conference in Katmandu.

Maoist leader Prachanda is garlanded by his comrade Matrika Yadav (top) while his second-in-command Baburam Bhattarai (R) and Pampha Bhusal (L) look on after being declared winners in the election in Kathmandu April 12, 2008. Nepal's Maoist former rebels took a shock early lead on Saturday in an election aimed at cementing a peace deal that ended a decade-long civil war

Complete results for the 601-seat Constituent Assembly were not expected for a few weeks, though officials said they should have a clear picture of what the assembly will look later this coming week.
None of the parties who contested the vote — from the Maoists to centrist democrats to old-school royalists — are expected to win a majority. But the Maoists' strong early showing has surprised most observers, who before the vote had them placing third.
The election has been touted as the cornerstone of the 2006 peace deal with the Maoists, whose 10-year-long insurgency left about 13,000 people dead. The agreement followed weeks of unrest that forced Nepal's autocratic king to cede absolute power, which he had seized a year earlier.
Prachanda, whose real name is Pushpa Kamal Dahal, got almost twice the number of votes than his closest competitor, said election official Devendra Parajuli after declaring him the winner of one of Katmandu's constituencies.
Afterward, supporters covered him with flower garlands and chanted slogans hailing his victory. Hundreds crowded the Birendra Convention Center in Katmandu where the votes were counted, waving red-and-white flags bearing the hammer and sickle.
Scattered shootings and clashes that killed two people on election day and eight others in the days leading up to the poll did not deter millions of Nepalis from casting ballots in the country's first election in nine years.
"We will create a stronger basis for sustainable peace ... economic development and a federal republic by including all sections and communities of people.
"We will establish greater national unity with all political parties after the election," he said, in a statement signaling his commitment to a coalition government, analysts said.
Kunda Dixit, editor of the weekly Nepali Times, said: "At the rate it is going, the Maoists will be the number one party.
"Trends so far suggest that there was an overwhelming desire on the part of mostly young voters for change, peace and development."
There are 240 seats decided on a first-past-the-post basis, with another 335 seats decided by proportional representation and 26 to be nominated by the cabinet.
MAOIST PRAGMATISTS
Few results are in from the southern plains, home to nearly half of the population, and Maoists are thought to have weaker support there. The complex system also means the former guerrillas are very unlikely to get a majority.
"The trends don't reflect how they would do in the proportional elections," said a Western diplomat.
A Maoist victory would be hard to stomach for Nepal's conservative army, traditionally loyal to the king, as well as for the governments of the United States and India. New Delhi worries it could encourage India's own Maoist rebels.
Prachanda, who wants to be Nepal's first president, insists he wants friendly ties with Washington, New Delhi and Beijing.
"We will have good relations with all countries, including India and China," he said.

Help Raj Kumar Shrestha's Kidney Transplant

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 06:07:00 +0000

Someone is in desperate need of your help ... yes many are in desperate need but here simple people like you and me can do a great deal if we are willing to do a bit to save a life. A brother of ours who just reached his adulthood and haven't even lived half of his life needs to transplant both of his kidneys and this site (helpraj) is set up for those willing to do even a small bit to save him and his family's despair.

Ofcourse many people have donated from all over the world but still funds are not sufficient. I am without words here thou I'm just trying to be a messenger, so please go through this site helpraj.com to read his story in full.

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 13:02:00 +0000

Samyek Yatra(journey) is celebrated in Lalitpur, Nagbahal every once in 5 years called Itilhaney Samyek Mahadan festival and this representor statue of Dipanker Budha is being brought to participate in this festival last monday. Different kinds of statues are brought from Lalitpur, Kirtipur and Chowbar to gathered for Tuesdays' Dan Purba (free give away rituals).

Fuel crunch: Hospitals compelled to use firewood

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 11:43:00 +0000

Fuel crunch has loomed in the capital city in such a way that the hospitals have been forced to use firewood to cook food for patients due to the shortage of cooking gas in the market. Hospitals in lack of adequate electricity, diesel and petrol to run power generators are also unable to function as usual. Director of Patan Hospital Dr Rajesh Gongol said that the hospital has no option than to use firewood to cook food for patients.

Normal life has been crippled due to the bandh and curfews in Terai districts. Local administrations of Banke and Morang districts imposed curfews Thursday as clashes occurred between the agitators and the security personnel, reported media.

The United Madhesi Democratic Front (UMDF) has been calling general strike in Terai for past ten days. The Banke District Administration Office (DAO) has been imposing curfew in Nepalgunj for past six days; however, it was relaxed for five hours from 5 am today.The indefinite curfew is effective since 10:00 am, Banke CDO Narendraraj Sharma said. The agitators had made attempts to obstruct roads during the curfew relaxation hours.The curfew is also on in Biratnagar since 5 pm yesterday. UMDF cadres defying the curfew burnt tyres in Biratnagar this morning. Bara and Parsa district administration office meanwhile lifted curfew in Birgunj and Birgunj-Simara road from this morning.The Siraha district administration office has also lifted curfew in Siraha and Lahan from 5 am this morning. DAO Sunsari has also lifted curfew on Mahendra highway.

noreply@blogger.com (Kathmandude) — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 14:03:00 +0000

Hundreds of students burned tyres and brought traffic to a halt on the roads of Nepal's capital on Tuesday in protest against a steep hike in the price of cooking gas and diesel.
The Nepal Oil Corporation, the state-owned monopoly, raised prices of diesel, kerosene and cooking gas on Monday by up to 20 percent to cut losses. It was the second rise in three months.
Protesting students said poor people would suffer because of the hike.
Black smoke from burning tyres filled the sky of the hill-ringed city, home to 1.5 million people. Activists threatened to stone vehicles of drivers ignoring their call to stay off the roads.
They threw stones at riot police who tried to stop them from starting fires. Several people were injured in the clashes, police said.

People stand near burning tyres during a protest in Kathmandu January 22, 2008. Hundreds of students burned tyres on roads and brought the traffic to a halt in the Nepali capital on Tuesday in a protest against a steep hike in the prices of cooking gas and diesel, the second rise in three months.

Diesel will now cost NRs.61 per litre, dearer by NRs.5, while kerosene will cost NRs.60 from NRs.51. Cooking gas will cost NRs.1,250 per cylinder, up from NRs.1,100.

Protestors hurled bricks at passing vehicles and brought traffic to a standstill in major areas of the capital.
Protests also started in Butwal, Pokharam, Biratnagar and other towns.
In Biratnagar, Koirala's hometown, protesters also shut down shops, markets and educational institutions.

Every dog has its day and in Nepal these dogs were put tika and garlanded on the second day of the festival Tihar(last time) which day is revered as Kukur Puja. Thou there are many not well treated dogs roaming around in streets of Kathmandu, this day is specially for them and they are given to eat sweet meals too.