Major Tourism Activities

Mountain Climbing The 800 km stretch of the Nepal Himalayan is the greatest in the world with eight peaks that rise above 8,000m including the highest in the world, Mt. Everest. Ever since the country opened its peaks to climbers in 1994, the Nepal Himalayan has become a great theatre of mountaineering activity and the drama of success and failure have provided impetus to thousands of men and women to meet the ultimate challenge. The Nepal Himalayan has been an attraction to many people, be they saints, philosophers, researchers or adventures.   Trekking The best way to experience Nepal’s unbeatable combination of natural beauty and culture riches is to walk through them. One can walk along the beaten trails or virgin tracks. Either way you are in for an experience for a lifetime. Along with forests of rhododendron, isolated hamlets, and small mountain villages, birds, animals, temple, monasteries and breathtaking landscapes, you will also encounter friendly people of different cultures offering a fascinating glimpse of traditional rural life.   Bird Watching Nepal is a paradise for bird lovers with over 646 species (almost 8% of the world total) of birds, and among them almost 500 hundred species are found in Kathmandu Valley alone. The most popular bird watching spots in Kathmandu are Phulchoki, Godavari, Nagarjun, Bagmati river, Taudaha and so on. Get your binoculars and look forward to a rewarding experience.   Mountain Flight Only awe-stricken silence can come close to matching the experience of going on a mountain flight to encounter the tallest mountains on earth. Mountain flights offer the closest possible aerial views of Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga and the Tibetan Plateau. Mountain flights appeal to all category of travelers and have become a popular tourist attraction of Nepal. For those who are restricted by time or other considerations from going for a trek, these flights offer a panoramic view of the Himalayan in just one hour.   Rock Climbing For all those cliffhangers out there, Kathmandu offers a roster of stone walls that make for an experience of a lifetime. Now of late, Rock climbing has become a popular sport in Kathmandu, which offers some really terrific places for rock climbing. Nagarjun, Balaju, Shivapuri and Budhanil Kantha are some of the places where you can try this sport.   Rafting/Kayaking/Canyoning Rafting is one of the best ways to explore the typical cross section of natural as well as ethno-cultural heritage of the country. There are numerous rivers in Nepal which offer excellent rafting or canoeing experience. You can glide on calm jade waters with munificent scenery all about or rush through roaring white rapids, in the care of expert river-men employed by government authorized agencies. One can opt for day of river running or more. So far, the government has opened sections of 10 rivers for commercial rafting. The Trisuli river (Grade 3+) is one of the most popular of Nepal’s raftable rivers. The Kali Gandaki (5-5+) winds through remote canyons and deep gorges for five days of intense rapids. The Bhote Koshi (4-5) is 26km of continuous white water and the raging Marshyanghi is four days of uninterrupted white water. The Karnali river (4-5) provides some of the most challenging rapids in the world. The Sun Koshi (4-5), 27km, requiring 8-10 days to complete, is a big and challenging river. Adventurers are provided with world-class services by rafting agents. Agencies here provide life jackets, camping and the standard rafting paraphernalia needed by world-class rafting. An extremely popular sport in Europe, cannoning is now available in Nepal. Cannoning gives you the freedom to explore some of the most ruggedly beautiful, yet forbidden places in the world.   Hot Air Ballooning Hot air ballooning is very popular with tourists for it affords the most spectacular bird’s-eye view of the Kathmandu valley and the Himalayan ranges towering in the background. On a clear day it’s a superb way to view the Himalayan (from over 6000m up), and the view of the valley is equally breathtaking.   Bungy Jumping The ultimate thrill of a bungy jump can now be experienced in Nepal at one of the best sites that this sport can boast of anywhere in the world. Nepal’s first bungy jumping site is situated 160m. Over the Bhote Koshi river, inviting you to experience the ultimate adrenaline rush in the surroundings of this amazing place. The jump, at 160m., is staffed and operated by some of the most experienced jumpmasters in the business.   Paragliding Paragliding in Nepal can be a truly wonderful and fulfilling experience for the adventure seeking. A trip will take you over some of the best scenery on earth, as you share airspace with Himalayan griffins vultures, eagles, kites and float over villages, monasteries, temples, lakes and jungle, with a fantastic view of the majestic Himalayas.   Ultralight Aircraft Ultralight aircraft take off from Pokhara and offer spectacular views of the lakes, mountains and villages. This is an ideal way to see life from a new perspective. The choice of Pokhara Valley for ultra-light aircraft is appropriate chiefly because of the proximity of the mountains, and the scenic lakes. For those who wished they could fly birds when growing up, this flight is a must. It might be lonely at the top, but this flight is a must. It might be lonely at the top, but the spectacular view from up high certainly makes it all worth it. Flights are from the Pokhara airport beginning September through June. The flights take place from sunrise to 11 a.m. and from 3 p.m. to sunset every day during these months.   Mountain Biking The best way to explore the Kathmandu Valley is on a mountain bike. Nepal’s diverse terrain is a mountain biker’s dream adventure comes true. Mountain biking offers an environmentally sound way of exploring this magnificent country, its landscape and living heritage. There are plenty of dirty roads and trails in Nepal to meet every mountain biker’s wildest fantasy. Mountain biking is specially recommended if you wish to explore urban centers of Nepal such as Pokhara and Kathmandu as well as the countryside. Adventurous souls may plan extended trips to such exotic locals as Namche Bazaar, and western Nepal. You could even do the entire length of Nepal across the plains. Mountain bikes are available for rent by the day or longer in many of the bicycle rental outlets in Nepal and around the city.   Jungle Safari National Parks located specially in the Terai region in Nepal attract visitors from all over the world. A visit to these parks involves game- stalking by a variety of means-foot, dugout canoe, jeep, and elephant back. One is bound to sight a one – horned rhino or two at every elephant safari. Besides the rhinos, wild boars, samburs, spotted deer, sloth bear, four-horned antelope are also usually seen. A Royal Bengal tiger may surprise you by his majestic appearance

Jungle Safari in Nepal

Nepal is one of the richest countries in the world in term of bio-diversity due to its unique geographical position and altitudinal variation. The elevation of the country ranges from 60 m at sea level to the highest point on earth, Mt. Everest at 8,848 m, all within a distance of 150 km resulting into climate condition from sub-tropical to Arctic. Nepal-occupying only 0.1% of the earth - is home to : 2% of all flowering plants in the world; 8% of the world's population of birds (more then 848 species); 4% of mammals on earth; 11 of the world's 15 families of butterfly (more than 500 species); 600 indigenous plant families; 319 species of exotic orchids. One of the major tourist attractions in Nepal is Jungle Safari:  Jungle activities here include venture into deep jungle on elephant back or four wheel drive to view wild animals in their natural habitat, canoe rides or rafting on the jungle rivers, nature walks, camping trip, bird watching, dolphin sightseeing, fishing, tiger tracking or wild elephant tracking, and village tour excursions etc. A Rich Natural Heritage:  Thanks to Nepal's extensive and effective Parks and Reserve system, the country has managed to preserve more endangered species of flora and fauna then any other area in Asia. Nepal has nine National Parks, three Wildlife Reserves, three Conservation Areas and one Hunting Reserve, which include areas in the highest mountain in the world as well as sub-tropical lowland of the plains. NATIONAL PARKS Everest National Park - 1148 sq. km (World Heritage Sites-Natural) Chitwan National Park - 932 sq. km (World Heritage Sites-Natural) Bardia National Park - 968 sq. km Langtang National Park - 1710 sq. km Shey - Phoksundo National Park - 3555 sq. km Rara National Park - 106 sq. km Khaptad National Park - 225 sq. km Shivapuri National Park - 144 sq. km Makalu Barun National Park - 1500 sq. km WILDLIFE RESERVES Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve - 305 sq. km Parsa Wildlife Reserve - 499 sq. km Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve - 175 sq. km HUNTING RESERVE Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve - 1325 sq. km CONSERVATION AREAS Annuparna Conservation Area - 7629 sq. km Kanchanjunga Conservation Area - 2035 sq. km Manaslu Conservation Area - 1663 sq. km

Everest Mountain Flight

Everest Mountain Flight or Everest Himalayan Flight Tour is an hour long early morning flight in Kathmandu Nepal by domestic airlines which flies on the north east of Nepal along with he high Himalayan ranges. As we know that the top of the world is Mount Everest, to see this the main purpose of this flight along with the other 8 ighest peaks in the world. After doing this you may have some idea about the magnificent Himalayas and you can be proud enough to say that you have see the highest or tallest point of this world. So Angel Tour Trekking Operator Nepal offers Nepal Tour Trekking Pacakge with Everest Mountain Flight.

"More over you will receive - CERTIFICATE - from the airlines that you have seen the top of the world Mount Everest"
For the traveler who is unable to make a trekking trip to the mountains either because of lack time or physical fitness, or due to sheer want of the adventure streak, there are Mountain Flight to simulate the experience.For millennia, the Himalayas have had a grip on the world's imagination. The sheer majesty and grandeur of the lofty, snow-capped mountains have inspired awe, curiosity and reverence.Tens of thousands of visitors from the world over come to Nepal annually, as English climber George Leigh Mallory would say, because they are there. But not all who visit the Himalayan kingdom can afford the time and the stamina to be on the mountains. You can, however, afford to be with us on our exhilarating Himalayan Spectacular that shows you the mountains from the closest range possible.

Welcome to the Land of Himalayas

Nepal is a land of unparalleled scenic beauty located within one of the most diverse geographical areas on earth. Nestled high in the Himalayas between China and India, it has retained its essentially agrarian and medieval character. Its wondrous history and geography are still the defining aspects of everyday life.

Since Nepal first opened its frontiers to foreign visitors in the fifties, it has been the epicenter of Himalayan adventure activities. Climbing and trekking holidays in Nepal Himalaya has become highly sought after adventure sports throughout the world soon after the advent of tourism culture. Nepal has an unsurpassed range of environments, ranging from the lowland of Terai to the snowy summit of the highest mountain range on Earth.

Traveling in Nepal not only offers an opportunity to submerge in Himalayan bliss but also a chance to step back in time. Standing before the entire world as a vivid kaleidoscope of picturesque landscapes, exotic wildlife, arid high-altitude meadows, magnificent mountains, incredible travel destinations, unique culture, festivals, ancient heritage, pristine backwaters, and exotic cuisine, Nepal is undoubtedly a traveler’s delight. Trekking in Nepal is often referred to as walking through the paradise on earth.

Landlocked Nepal

Nepal is a landlocked Himalayan country between India and China. The tourism in Nepal consists of its ethereal mountain scenery and also its unique brand of syncretic Hindu and Buddhist religious practices.

The tourism in Nepal involves a large section of its general population. It constitutes the largest service industry of the Himalayan country. Nepal tourism is bolstered by the presence of the highest mountain in the world-Mount Everest. The country also is home to 8 of the10 highest mountains on earth. Nepal acts as a veritable magnet for persons following an active lifestyle. Mountaineers, rapellers and ski professionals regularly visit the country to hone their professional skills. The tourism industry in Nepal is responsible for a large portion of the foreign exchange coming into the country.

The tourist industry in Nepal employs 42% of the total working population in Nepal. It is the main source of economic sustenance after agriculture. Many Nepali people depend upon foreign tourists for their livelihood. The growth of organized tourism in Nepal has given rise to higher wages of the Nepali population depending upon tourist activity for their economic sustenance. Responsible tourism is practiced by the government to ensure that environmental degradation does not occur as a by-product of tourist activities.

History of Nepal

Nepal has seen many rulers and ruling dynasties. The earliest rulers were the Kirantis who ruled from 9th century B.C. to 1st century A.D. Legends and chronicles mention that the Indian Emperor Ashoka had come to Nepal and visited Lumbini, the place where the Buddha was born, and where he erected a huge stone pillar to commemorate his visit to that spot.

The Kirants were replaced by Licchavis who, according to the earliest evidences in inscriptions of the 5th century A.D. found in the courtyard of Changunarayan temple which is about 15 km north east of Kathmandu, ruled this country from 1st century to 9th century A.D. This period is noted for the many temples and fine sculptures built around the Kathmandu valley.
The Licchavis were followed by the Thakuris, and then came the Malla dynasty. The Mallas ruled focusing mainly on the Kathmandu Valley which has been the residence for most Nepali rulers from time immemorial. No other part of Nepal is as rich in cultural heritage as Kathmandu. Thanks to the exceptionally talented crafts-men, who dedicated themselves to construct the many temples and statues, we have seven world heritage sites in the Kathmandu Valley itself.


In the 14th century A.D. King Jayasthiti Malla established a rigid social order. His grandson tried in every way to protect his country from suspected enemy states. Unfortunately, all his efforts were fruitless, everything went beyond his control and the country eventually divided up into 50 small feudal states including the three major ones in the valley.

Then came the Shah dynasty, which prevails even today. King Prithvi Narayan Shah, founder of Modern Nepal, who annexed small principalities including three states in the Kathmandu Valley and unified Nepal in a single kingdom. Recognizing the threat of the British Raj in India, he dismissed European missionaries from the country and for more than a century, Nepal remained in isolation.

During the mid-19th century Jung Bahadur Rana became Nepal's first prime minister to wield absolute power. He set up an oligarchy and the Shah Kings remained figureheads.

COMMON NEPAL YOU CAN DO IT

Jordan VS Nepal Support Nepal for 2014 FIFA Word Cup Qualifier 23 July, 2011 This image has been resized. Click this bar to view the full image. The original image is sized 1002x109.

Nepal Vs Jordan : World Cup qualifiers

 

After their success against Timor Leste in first round of 2014 World Cup Asian Qualifiers with emphatic 7-1 aggregate victory, Nepal is all set to play against Jordan in the second round on July 23 and 28. Jordan, ranked 83^rd in the FIFA ranking currently, are two times (2004 and 2011) quarter finalists in AFC Asian Cup.

Comparing the historical background of both the teams, Jordan seems much stronger than Nepal. But Nepali Coach Graham Roberts, former English International, believes that Nepal can beat Jordan. When asked if Nepal can beat Jordan, Roberts said, "Why not! We can beat them. We are confident and will do everything possible in the second round qualifiers"

Jordan and Nepal are playing against each other for the first time. Jordan might be a tough call for Nepal but one thing common in both teams is they have lost only one match played in last seven matches.

Here's some comparisons of two teams :

FIFA ranking
Nepal 148 Vs Jordan 83

Highest Ranking
Nepal 124 (Dec 1993) Vs Jordan 37 (July 2004)

Lowest rankingNepal 188 (Feb 2008) Vs Jordan 152 (July 1998)
Football governing body
All Nepal Football Association (ANFA)
Jordan Football Association (JFA)

World Cup Appearances
Nepal: never qualifiedJordan: never qualified
Asia Cup Appearances
Nepal: never qualifiedJordan: Quarterfinalists in 2004 and 2011

Nepal: Last seven matchesW W D L W W WOpponents:East Timor (twice), Sri Lanka, Korea DPR, Afghanistan, Bhutan (twice)

Jordan Last seven matchesD D L W W D DOpponents:Korea DPR, Kuwait, Uzbekistan, Syria, Saudi Arabia, Japan, Uzbekistan

Coach
Nepal: Graham Roberts, Former England International
Jordan: Adnan Hamad, Former Iraq International

Biggest Win
Nepal Vs Bhutan 7-0 (1999)Jordan Vs Macau 13-0 (2006)

Biggest defeat
Nepal Vs South Korea 0-16 (2003)Jordan Vs China 0-6 (1984)

National Stadium
Dasharath Rangashala, Capacity : 25,000Amman International Stadium , Capacity : 25,000

Kit Provider
Nepal: Adidas
Jordan: Adidas

Jersey:
Home
Nepal: Red
Jordan: White
Away
Nepal: BlueJordan: Red

Amman International Stadium which hosted 2007 Asian Championships in Athletics will be hosting Nepal's away match against Jordan on July 23. Built in 1980 and renovated in 2009, this stadium has capacity of 25,000 spectators. In July, the temperature of Amman, Jordan, where Amman International Stadium is located, might exceed 35˚C. But according to Yahoo weather, on the day of the match, the temperature is expected to be 32˚C. There is 0% chance of rainfall during the day, but the humidity is expected to be high.
Meanwhile, Venue for Nepal's home match against Jordan is still undecided even though schedules in the official website of Asian Football Confederation shows that match would be held in the Dasharath Stadium, Kathmandu.

“We are still undecided about hosting the home match against Jordan in Kathmandu since we are facing the problem of ground maintenance,” said All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) CEO Indra Man Tuladhar.

Earlier, ANFA had requested to play both home and away matches in Jordan. However, following the success in the matches against Timor Leste in the first round of the qualifiers as well as pressures from fans and the team, ANFA wrote to AFC to host the home match in Kathmandu.

Meanwhile, Graham Roberts has said that he will make sure home match against Jordan will be played in Kathmandu. Speaking after post match conference after defeating Timor Leste 5-0 in the second leg of first round matches of 2014 World Cup Asian Qualifiers, he said, "I will do everything possible to make sure we are playing our home match at home. You should not hurt thousands of Nepalese football fans."

Nepal Tour Package

Nepal is an eccentric tourist's paradise in every sense of adventure, Himalaya, river, religious, wildlife sanctuaries, monuments, Temples, museums, cultural and world heritage sites. As well as the birth place of Lord Buddha. It has blessed by divine power of natural beauty. One thing is sure that once you visit this Country and you leave the country, it always reminds and connects you forever with the images which you see on tour and trek. It is a major tourist spot of Asia. Because of unbeatable combination of natural beauty, It is one of the best destinations for Trek, Travel, Tour, jungle safari tour, Rafting. Not only these things but also you can experience the people's culture, festivals, religion and tradition. Apart from sightseeing tours of its splendid monuments, the country offers numerous other options to the tourists to enjoy themselves fully. For instance, one can indulge trek, expedition, hiking, biking, river rafting, Jungle safari Tour etc. There are also a number of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, which serve as a treat for nature lovers.

We are always ready to welcome all travelers to enjoy with its natural beauty of the country. We are one of the best and leading Nepal Travel, Trekking, Expedition and tour Operator Company. We have customized some Nepal tour package which can fulfill your dream of visit This Country and it makes easy to plan your Nepal tour and experience of country. We have design some tour packages which include most popular sightseeing place. Like Kathmandu tour package, Holiday Package, Pokhara tour package, Chitwan tour package, Lumbini tour package, Pilgrim tour package, Jungle safari tour, best Nepal tour and trek package. Our pre-designed packages offer you a complete Nepal trip package at your hand. Our Tour packages are customizable to your needs. It's easy to plan a tour on your desire. We are happy to extend our hospitality and wish your trip and stay memorable

Expedition

Because of a richest country in the world on terms of isolated geographical position, snow capped Himalaya, natural beauty and unique bio- diversity; It is a paradise for Himalaya and Mountaineering. Nowhere else on the earth can get such a combination of high snow capped Himalaya and have the opportunity to climb some of the highest peaks in the world. Of course, Mount Everest immediately comes to mind when we think about Nepal. Not only mount Everest but also other seven high peaks over 8000 meter and 1310 over 6000 meter peaks and 33 peaks already opened for expedition by  government. Having an eight highest Peak out of 14 in the world, it is popular destination for Himalaya expedition. Himalaya expedition is the most challenging but rewarding trips. The Himalaya of Nepal has stood as irresistible land mark for the world's adventures since Nepal opened its doors to travelers in 1950. Himalaya Expedition is the prime attraction of country. Expedition means touching a heart of snow capped mountain, getting an adventures experience, exploring the majestic Himalaya and enjoying with natural beauty of Snow Peak. The climbing any of expedition peaks are regulated by government, ministry of tourism aviation and some peaks by mountaineering association. Everest expedition, cho oyu expedition, manaslu expedition, Ama dablam, kanchanjunga, Annapurna are most popular mountain expedition in Nepal.

All The entire expedition is require to get permission for peak climbing for all Peaks and permits can be issued through an authorized travel and tour agency like us or from mountaineering association, tourism board, and ministry of tourism and civil aviation. Being a trekking, expedition and Tour Operator Agent, We operate all type of trekking, expedition, peak climbing service with permits, gears, food, transportation, guide porter and insurance to our guest on our package

Adventure Himalayan Treks

Adventure In The Himalayas Experience the beauty of Nepal with Adventure Himalayan Treks. We offer a selection of different treks in Nepal and Tibet plus "add-on" adventures to Chitwan National Park; exciting rafting trips on the Trisuli and Sunkoshi Rivers; as well as tours of the Kathmandu Valley. Contact us about your special interest or preferred trekking area and we will provide a detailed trek description with a day-to-day itinerary. Adventure Himalayan Treks will also arrange custom-made peak climbing expeditions, cultural and educational treks.

Adventure Himalayan Trekkers uses the finest in trekking equipment just to make your trip more comfortable. Our experienced guides and cooks are there to make your trip memorable; while the office staff will free you from all the turmoil of travel by taking care of your permits, flight reservations, etc.

Your trek with Adventure Himalayan Treks will include all staff services (guide, cook, and porters); land transportation including airport transfers; all camping equipment (tents, mattresses, etc.); all meals prepared outdoors while trekking; as well as meals and lodging while traveling in Tibet. We also help you with trekking permits; national park fees; sightseeing entrance fees; and insurance surcharges for all local staff.

Adventure Himalayan Trekkersspecializes in assisting documentary film groups in Nepal and Tibet. Please contact our office for details. To receive our color brochure or to book treks, tours or expeditions; please contact us through your travel agent or write to us directly. We suggest you book your trip at least one month prior to schedule.

Business in Nepal

Nepal is generally considered to be one of the poorest nations in the world. The majority of the population live in rural areas and make their income (if any) from working agricultural lands. The country is also landlocked which makes it difficult or expensive to transports goods to other countries. However, importations and exportation is encouraged by the government in order to promote good business and encourage growth which will hopefully result in a higher employment rate, higher salaries and a better standard of living for all in time. Nepal's capital is Kathmandu – a city with over one million people. There are several other sizable cities, most of which are located in the southern Terai districts right next to India's border. Many of the people in the country have a poor level of education, suffer from bad health and earn very little money. The potential for economical growth in the country is seen as being in agriculture, export-orientated manufacturing, hydropower generation and tourism. Unfortunately it is unlikely that this potential will ever be realized locally due to lack of funding. Major investments by the public and private sectors are needed. While government has taken many positive steps such as creating policies that free up trade and establishing a convertible currency, the country still remains heavily reliant on agriculture which means that bad weather can result in a bad gross national product. Noting this trend, the government has taken steps towards more sustainable growth by focusing on encouraging other countries and firms to invest in hydropower development and exports. They have developed a well-thought-out program which should, in time, see the economy go from strength to strength. The principle growth sectors are in tourism, transport, telecommunications and hydropower generation. If you want to invest in Nepal, now is the time to do it.

Trekking in Nepal and Himalayas

Karnali Excursions offers you the opportunity to experience adventure, exotic cultures and unconventionality in the most mesmerizing and historic places on earth. Our treks, tours, expeditions and educational journeys through the Himalayas and greater Nepal — Mt. Everest, Mt. Kailash, Tibet, Annapurna, Kathmandu, Bhutan, to name a few — are carefully organized and bypass the ‘tourist jams’ in these areas. 
We have an interesting selection of itineraries to choose from, or offer you the opportunity to work with us to create an itinerary that suits your specific needs and desires. We tread lightly in many sensitive areas, always helping to preserve and protect the environment. Our treks and tours are affordable and accommodating, bound to ensure the ‘Journey of a Lifetime’.

Mountain Flight

trekking trip to the mountains either because of lack time or physical fitness, or due to sheer want of the adventure streak, there are mountain flights to simulate the experience.For millennia, the Himalayas have had a grip on the world's imagination. The sheer majesty and grandeur of the lofty, snow-capped mountains have inspired awe, curiosity and reverence. Tens of thousands of visitors from the world over come to Nepal annually, as English climber George Leigh Mallory would say, because they are there. But not all who visit the Himalayan kingdom can afford the time and the stamina to be on the mountains. You can, however, afford to be with us on our exhilarating Himalayan Spectacular that shows you the mountains from the closest range possible.

What to expect during the flight?

The one hour flight takes you within camera range of some of the highest peaks in the world, and cruising this close to the awe-inspiring massifs of rock and ice, is an out-of-this earth experience. The aircraft takes off and heads eastward and almost immediately, the peaks come into view. The first peak that appears on your horizon is the majestic Gosaithan, standing 8,013m tall. To its right, appears Dorje Lhakpa (6,966m), looking like a massive figure of 8, lying prone and covered in snow. To its right is Phurbi Chyachu, which looms over the Kathmandu Valley. Next on your vision is Choba Bhamare, rather small in this company at 5,933m, but singularly stubborn as it remains unconquered to this day. Then comes Mt. Gaurishanker (7,134m), standing out sharp and conspicuous-Hindus believe that Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati protect this mountain. As the flight move toward the eastern Himalaya, a succession of majestic mountains follows. Melungtse, with a plateau-like top stand at 7,023m; Chugimago is at 6,297m, and still remains to be scaled. Mt. Numbur stands at 6,956m. Then, Karyolung, a gleaming-white mountain at 6,511m, and cho-Oyu, the sixth highest in the world at 8,021 m. The last and most exciting stretch of the journey takes you close to the 7,952m tall Gyanchungkang, which is considered an extremely tough climb. To its right is Pumori at 7,161m and Nuptse at 7,855m. Finally, there is Mt. Everest itself (8,848m), called Sagarmatha by the Nepalese and Chomolungma by the Tibetans. It is an altogether different feeling as one comes face to face with the world's tallest and most enigmatic of mountains. Mountain flights are also conducted from Pokhara. Can we charter?  Helicopters and Aircraft are also available for charter use, especially for group treks and expeditions. STOL (Short Take Off and Landing) airstrips are located throughout the country.

Entertaining Nepal

Nightlife
It's evening, and you are just back from a sight-seeing tour or a delightful shopping binge. So what do you do? Go back to your hotel room? No, Kathmandu is not going to let you off that easily. There are more fun-filled adventures waiting for you, and we'll tell you where to find them. Relax, the night is young yet.

Casinos
Over the years, Kathmandu has seen many changes; in people as well as in trends. However, one trend that has remained true over the years is that of South Asians traveling to Kathmandu to play in the Casinos of Nepal.

Gambling has always been a part of South Asian culture. When you look at ancient paintings and text, you see kings and their women playing dice. When you look at holy scriptures, you read of gods and sages gambling.

Kathmandu offers visitors an array of exciting, action-packed casinos where you can enjoy 24 hours of fun and games. There are four casinos in Kathmandu, all located in the premises of the city's top hotels, which offer your favorite games: poker, baccarat, roulette, pontoon, blackjack, as well as other card games and slot machines. All the games are played in chips and they can be purchased with US dollars or Indian rupees.

The four Casinos of Nepal are:

Highlights of Casino Anna

Location within the 5 Star Hotel de l'Annpurna.
700 Trained Service Staff.
Ground Floor facilities for beginners and those with a limited bankroll.
Largest number of jackpot winners of any casino in the valley.
Second Floor facilities for serious gambling with larger wagers and tournament players welcomed.
Casino Royale located across the street.

Since opening in 1992, Casino Anna has become, perhaps, the most frequented of all casinos in Nepal.

Highlights of Casino Everest

Location within the 5 Star Hotel Everest.
Playing takes plays in one of Kathmandu's biggest banquet halls.
Players are entitled to a free breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet.
High rollers may receive room comps and other spiffs .
Regularly held entertainment programs.

With a location ideal for quick airport access, Casino Everest is in the quiet area of Baneswor.

Highlights of Casino Nepal

Location on the premises of the 5 Star Hotel Soaltee Holiday Inn Crown Plaza .
New renovations to make it the largest gambling center in the valley.
Players are entitled to a free breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet .
Regularly held entertainment programs .
A newly established back-bar and game room for serious gamblers .

The oldest casino in Nepal, Casino Nepal is also the most popular casino in the Valley.

Highlights of Casino Royale

Location within the 5 Star Hotel Yak and Yeti A location in Kathmandu's most popular tourist center, Durbar Marg, puts you in the heart of the action.
Travel agencies, airlines, hotels, banks, shops and all things you will need are located next door.
Gambling in an Old-World atmosphere.
Players are entitled to a free breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet.
Regularly held entertainment programs.
A Kids Corner with entertainment games.
Casino Anna located across the street.

Located in a building that is part of a 125-year-old Rana Palace, Casino Royale is the pride of the Rana kings who built many beautiful palaces and recreation areas in Nepal.

Cultural ProgramsCultural programs offer a fascinating glimpse of Nepal's diverse ethnic and cultural traditions. There are several places in Kathmandu where folk dances and musical performances are held every evening. Nepalese folk dances are an expression of joy. They celebrate the changing of the seasons or youthful romances. Evening time in rural Nepal is often filled with the sound of village song festivals and spontaneous gatherings.

If you want to enjoy Nepalese folk dances but don't feel like going on a mountain trek, you can go to one of the cultural programs in Kathmandu for a lively evening of cultural enlightenment. Performances are given nightly by the Everest Cultural Society at the Hotel.

De L' Annapurna, Durbar Marg and the New Himalchuli Cultural Group.

Movies
There's nothing like going to the movies. There are several cinema halls in Kathmandu where you can sit back and enjoy the celluloid offerings of Kathmandu Bollyhood and Hollyhood as well . Nepalese films as well as Hindi movies from India are the most popular cinematic fare around here. You can know it's a cinema hall by the huge colorful posters of the hero thrashing the villain pasted outside. Tickets are not very expensive and there are three shows everyday: 11:30 am, 2:30 pm and 5:30 pm (four shows on Saturday).

Bungee Jumping

Let your spirits fly and take a leap down 160 meters with nothing but a bungee rope attached to your ankles. Bhote Kosi, one of Nepal’s wildest rivers awaits true adventure seekers who are ready for anything. Not for the faint hearted, Bungy jumping is an extreme sport that has your heart racing and adrenaline pumping at an all time high in an instant. Located at one of the beautiful spots along the Arniko Highway that leads to Tibet, it is a 3 hour drive from Kathmandu to The Last Resort. The resort even built the bridge over the Bhote Koshi so you could get the ultimate high of jumping off from a height of 160m above the river. Specially designed for bungee with a 4x-safety factor the bridge has a loading factor of 41,500 kg or 4.5 tons according to Swiss standards. Rest assured you are safe.

Trekking

Trekking is by far Nepal’s biggest attraction. Pioneered by Col. Jimmy Roberts in the early 1960s, most tourists embark on some trek or the other and many do multiple treks before heading back home. Some arrive each year to do a different trek each time. A trek is also the best means of seeing the country and to understand its people.  Walking through emerald rice fields; through rhododendron forests; crossing streams, camping out on a hilltop in the wilderness with towering mountains in the background, make trekking an unforgettable experience.

One can also do pony treks in some remote places, which is equally enthralling for visitors. Pony treks are offered mostly in western region of Pokhara, Dolpo and Lo Manthang (Mustang).

The two most popular treks are the Everest Base Camp Trek and the Around Annapurna also known as the Annapurna Circuit as it goes right around the Annapurna range. There are many different treks offered in the Everest and Annapurna regions. Other popular regions are the Langtang valley, Helambu, Makalu, Manaslu, Kanchenjunga and the Arun Valley. Another popular destination in the Everest region is the Gokyo valley.

Celebrating Tourism Year

GREETINGS & NAMASTE FROM NEPAL TO THE WORLD on the occasion of NEPAL TOURISM YEAR 2011 Everest Dreamz warmly welcomes to all the Travellers, Trekkers, Mountain Climbers and People from all over the world in the occasion of NEPAL TOURISM YEAR 2011, has been formally unveiled by the government of Nepal on Friday - 26 February 2010.Prime Minster of Nepal Shree Madhav Kumar Nepal inaugurated the NTY 2011 by lighting a lamp brought from Lumbini, the birth-place of Gautam Buddha, in a special ceremony organized at the Nepal Army pavilion in Tundikhel, Kathmandu with the slogan "Together for Tourism", the Nepal Tourism Year (NTY) 2011 has been formally unveiled by the government. Government of Nepal in consultation with Nepalese Tourism Industry, concerned organizations and experts decided to launch a national tourism campaign "Nepal Tourism Year 2011" Nepal is a country of highly diverse and rich geography, culture, and religions. Nepal covers a span of 147,181 sq. kilometers ranging from altitude of 70 meters to 8,848 meters. Mountains, mid hills, valleys and plains dominate the geography of landlocked Nepal that extends from the Himalayan range in the north to the Indo-Gangetic lowlands in south. The mountainous north contains eight of the world's ten highest mountains, including the highest, Mount Everest. The fertile and humid south is heavily urbanized. By some measures, Hinduism is practiced by a greater majority of people in Nepal than in any other nation. 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. 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!' Trekking is the most popular activity in Nepal and is the best way to experience the Himalayas. Most treks follow well-trodden foot trails that have been in use for hundreds of years, connecting mountain villages and hamlets. Popular treks include:      1. Everest Base Camp Trek      2. Annapurna Circuit Trek      3. Annapurna Base Camp Trek      4. Langtang Gosaikunda Trek      5. Gokyo Ri Trek      6. Annapurna Jomsom Muktinath Trek      7. Everest Base Camp / Gokyo Cross Chola la Trek Plan Your Trip Physical features also include green paddy terraces, wind-swept deserts, dense forests and marshy grasslands. The country is well endowed with perennial rivers, lakes and glacial lakes that originate in the Himalayas. Nepal is a Safe Destination for tourist. We would like to state that the Tourist Police is a special unit of Nepal Police, which is working under Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Tourism Industry Division. Government of Nepal plans to draw 1 million tourists to Nepal during this period in 2011.

Nepal Tourism Year 2011

Tourism, as a mainstay of Nepal’s economy, is growing because of additional attractions such as casinos, a host of adventure sports like Everest Skydiving and mountain biking in Nepal’s mountains and hills as well as international film and drama festivals. In Oct 2008, 50,567 tourists visited Nepal, with the arrival of Indian tourists up by 14 percent, thus making the arrival highest in the last 8 years. The Maoist insurgency that cost almost 13,000 lives in a span of 10 years (1996-2006), hijacking of Indian Airlines flight IC 814 in 1999, Royal massacre in 2001, King Gyanendra’s coup in 2005, all contributed to a decrease in tourist arrival. However, after the signing of Comprehensive Peace Accord in 2006 that ended the civil war, which made Nepal a democratic republic in 2008, has worked in favor for the tourism sector. About 6 percent of the total foreign exchange earnings in 2010 are expected to come from tourism.

International tourism receipts also grew to USD 944 billion in 2008. The H1N1 influenza virus outbreak caused a decline in tourists worldwide by 880 million with about 6 percent decline in international receipts. Although the World Travel and Tourism Council (WITC) has revised its forecast on a 2 percent rise in the real GDP growth, the tighten fiscal policy and debt servicing liability of the Western consumers is expected to bring down expenditures to its 2008 level by making the pace of recovery in 2011 rather slow in Asia Pacific region. However, the share of tourism in global economy is expected to grow by over 10 percent in 2011. Tourism will be a key driver to poverty reduction by creating an additional 66 million jobs by 2020, 50 million alone in Asia. This will make Asia Pacific region the second most important tourism destination in the world by 2020.

South Asia lacks conducive operating environment to facilitate and harness existing potential of tourism. This is why the number of visitors to this region accounted only about 1.1 percent of the global visitor arrivals compared to 53.5 percent in Europe during 2007. Thirteen years ago, Visit Nepal Year 1998 had aimed at bringing 500,000 tourists but only 398,008 tourists came to Nepal. The number of tourists in Nepal had decreased by 5 percent to 500,277 during the calendar year 2008 from 527,705 in 2007. The numbers again totalled 509,752 in the year 2009 (which was again less than 2007 figure) marking a growth of 1.9 percent.

Although only 412,446 tourists visited Nepal by air in the year 2010 (first 11 months of FY 2009/10), this number was one of the highest since 1999 when it reached to 421,243. However, lessons from for receiving less than the estimated numbers and their impact on Nepal’s economy should be taken from Visit Nepal Year 1998 and “South Asia Tourism Year” in 2005, when the declaration remained merely ceremonial and hence the impact was minimal.

Nepal Tourism Year 2011 has begun with a slogan “Together for Tourism”. This announcement anticipates at least one million international tourists in Nepal in the year 2011. One has to wait and see the direction and trend of Nepal’s tourism growth until the end of calendar year 2011.

Despite the fact that SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) also initiated tourism promotion events with the promotional tagline of “Magic that is South Asia”, the growth of tourism remained marginal in this region. Without any fanfare the volume of tourist arrival between 2000 to 2007in the Asia-Pacific region was more than double, from 85 million to 198 million. This is a matter of serious consideration for South Asia to integrate tourism sector in countries’ development plans. Lessons need to be learnt from those countries that have succeeded in generating huge resources from this sector. For example, in the US, visitors spent more than US residents travelling abroad, creating a positive balance of trade of USD 8.3 billion for the economy.

TOURISM AND ECONOMY

It is a matter of concern in terms of some estimates that future unemployment rate in Nepal would exceed 10 percent in 20 years. Even a higher GDP growth rate of 6.5 percent would take 30 years to address the unemployment problem (http://www.nssd.net/country/nepal/nep06.htm). By 2007, Nepal’s tourism sector had directly and indirectly employed roughly 700,000 people. Similarly, data available for 2007 shows the direct and indirect contribution of tourism in GDP was 6.4 percent. The industry has also helped growth in other sectors as diverse as horticulture, handicrafts, agriculture, construction and even poultry.

Gross foreign exchange earnings in convertible currency during 2002-2006 do not show much progress. The earnings from tourism was USD 106,822,000 in 2002, which increased to USD 162,790,000 in 2006. Split by sectors, out of USD 162,790,000, the highest earnings were USD 55,366 thousands from tourists and lowest was USD9650 thousands from hotels. Since the year 2006 represented the historic event of Comprehensive Peace Accord between the government and Maoists, the sector-specific contribution must have changed by now.

Except the elaboration of conventional tourism competitiveness index, not much work is found in Nepal that investigates the impact on poor especially at the household level. Therefore, it is difficult to presume right away that tourism development will eventually benefit the poor through the “trickle down” effect. Instead, the government should respond to media’s criticism on environmental degradation and peoples’ health. Otherwise, in the worst case scenario, domestic health and sanitation vulnerability may be accompanied by global pandemic any time soon by making beautiful but deeply troubled Nepal a “paradise-turned-hell”.

Tourism is one of the fastest growing industries with a projected real growth rate of 4.3 percent per annum for the next 10 years. It is estimated that by the year 2020, there would be 1.6 billion tourists worldwide with the receipts worth US$2 trillion. It is projected that tourism will create a job every 2.5 seconds. This sector promotes inclusive growth as travel and tourism accounts for 11 percent of the world’s GDP, 9 percent of global employment, 12 percent of global exports and 12 percent of global investment.

Tourism promotion is like “dream selling” and selling one’s dream depends on the brand identity. Therefore, to keep tourism development initiative going and avoiding the possibility of exhibiting Nepal as a “discomfort zone”, Nepal should strengthen ongoing brand of unique community based tourism initiative that has produced a model to exhibit its unique nature and heritage conservation, community benefit and sustainable funding mechanisms like the “Annapurna Tourism Development Project” and the Bhaktapur Conservation Project of the 1980’s.

Tourism Marketing Strategy for Nepal 2005-2020 reveals that 25 percent of visitors come on a package, whereas 75 percent come to Nepal independently. No reliable data is available on the rate of growth of domestic tourism and their annual expenses. Nepal does not have an up-to-date data on foreign visitors’ expenditure either. It necessitates undertaking visitor expenditure surveys regularly within the given timeframe to correctly estimate the demand and supply situation by integrating tourism into the wider economic development packages.

Mountains in Nepal

Let Us Touch the Sky...

Nepal is the home of mountains. The awe-inspiring, majestic mountains of Nepal attract the tourists from far and wide. Mount Everest, the world's highest peak, juts out in north eastern region of the country, on the Sino-Nepalese border. It seems competing with other mighty mountains. Adventure activities like mountaineering, trekking and hiking can be enjoyed in this mountain range. Journey on these mountains transends one to an entirely different world. Mountain biking is also a popular game in this region.Fast Facts

Mountain	Height	Date of Ascent	Ranking in the World
Everest	8848m (29028ft)	29th May 1953	Highest mountain in the World
Kanchenjunga	8586m (28169ft)	25th May 1955	# 3
Lhotse	8501m (27890ft)	18th May 1956	# 4
Makalu	8463m (27765ft)	15th May 1955	# 5
Cho Oyu	8,201m (26,906ft)	-	# 6
Dhaulagiri	8167m (26794ft)	13th May 60	# 7
Manaslu	8156m (26758ft)	9th May 1956	# 8
Annapurna	8091m (26545ft)	3rd June 1950	# 10

Snow Line 

Snow line generally occurs between 5,000 and 5,500 meters. The region is characterised by cold climatic and rugged topographic conditions. Human habitation and economic activities are extremely limited. Population The region is sparsely populated, and whatever farming activity does exist is also confined to the low-lying valleys and the river basins. Upper Kali Gandaki Valley is an example of such valleys.Mountaineering Regulations According to the Nepal Mountaineering Association:-

• Any person or mountaineering team wanting to climb Nepal Mountains and Peaks must receive permission from Nepal Mountaineering Association.
• The team shall not indulge in activities that may be contrary to the customs and religious, political, social or cultural traditions of the locals.
• The team shall set up camps in its route to the base camp in such a way that they are acceptable to the local people or as prescribed by Government.
• The team shall not have any arms, ammunition and explosives etc. They are required to take government permission for the same.
• The team shall not get involved in any activity, which is or may be likely to affect negatively to the security and reputation of Nepal.