TOURISM YEAR 2011 NEPAL

Are we ready for Nepal Tourism Year
 

    

Elephant beauty pageant highlights 3-day Nepal festival

Dear Trekkers, Namaste !

The beauty pageant was like any other, with decked-out contestants parading on a catwalk and undergoing intelligence tests.

Hygiene and good health were important, along with physical stature.

But the pageant held Monday and Tuesday in a Nepal wildlife resort town was not for young women -- it was for elephants.

In the competition, the first such in the nation, a svelte 28-year-old walked away with the prize after defeating two other finalists

The mahouts -- the elephants' keepers -- worked hard on their charges' looks. The pachyderms were bathed, their hard skins scrubbed and their foreheads oiled. The mahouts also drew patterns on the elephants' faces and ears.

Of the three finalists, the youngest won. Chanchalkali, which translates as "playful beautiful," looked resplendent in a light red gown that covered her hulk of a body. Her nails were painted different colors and her forehead was covered with red cloth.

"I think she won because I worked hard on her," said her mahout, 46-year-old Prabhu Chaudhary, after the result was announced. "The fact that she was younger than her competitors also helped."

She behaved well, too, he added.

The elephants are among about 100 domesticated by the government and private owners at the edge of the Chitwan National Park in southern Nepal bordering India. The Elephant Beauty Pageant was part of the three-day Chitwan Elephant Festival, which ended Tuesday.

Tourists visiting the national park sit on the elephants' backs. Safaris also take place in the 932-square kilometer (359-square mile) park, home to sloth bears, royal Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceros, leopards, crocodiles and migrating birds, among other species.

Only six elephants participated in the competition, according to its organizers, because they were the healthiest, but also because the organizers were not sure how the inaugural Elephant Beauty Pageant would turn out.

The elephants were judged on their intelligence and appearance, the same criteria that women contestants are judged in beauty pageants, according to Lal Bahadur Bhandari, one of the brains behind the beauty contest.

The five judges were given 10 different criteria to judge the elephants, including whether they were able to obey simple commands of their mahouts, their posture and appearance in walking about 25 meters (82 feet), their cleanliness, their nails, their ears, the smoothness of their skin and their make-up.

Why Trekking In Nepal

Nepal is the ultimate destination for the trekking enthusiast offering a myriad of possibilities from the short and easy to the demanding challenges of the snowy peaks. If you have the time and energy to trek, don't miss the opportunity to leave Kathmandu and see the spectacular beauty and the unique culture of Nepal. Trekking in Nepal will take you through a country that has captured the imagination of mountaineers and explorers for more than 100 years.

You will meet people in remote mountain villages whose lifestyle has not changed in generations. Most people trust foreigners. Nepal is one of only a handful of countries that has never been ruled by a foreign power. Trekking does not mean mountain climbing. While the ascent of a Himalayan peak may be an attraction for some, you need not have such a goal to enjoy a trek.

Trekking always refers to walking on trails. While trekking you will see the great diversity of Nepal. Villages embrace many ethnic groups and cultures.

The terrain changes from tropical jungle to high glaciated peaks in only 150 km. From the start, the towering peaks of the Himalaya provide one of the highlights of a trek.

The beauty and attraction of the Nepal Himalaya emanates not only from the mountains themselves, but also from their surroundings. Nepal is a country of friendly people, picturesque villages and a great variety of cultures and traditions. Trekking in Nepal is much a cultural experience as a Himalayan adventure. In the shadow of foothills of the icy pinnacles of the Himalayas, one passes picturesque charming villages inhabited by diverse ethnic groups. Treks vary from expedition, high altitude treks to simple easy paced walk.

Trekking Information

1) Trekking Equipments List :-

Footwear: Well broken-in walking shoes - these must be suitable for snow, thick socks, light socks, camp shoes.

Clothing: Down or fiber filled waterproof jacket and trousers, sweater or fleece jacket, underwear, warm and cotton trousers or jeans, shirts and T-shirts, shorts, long underwear, wool hat, sun hat, gloves, bathing suit, track suit. Other equipment: Sleeping bag (4 seasons), trekking hold all or stash sack with lock, day pack, water bottle, sun cream, sunglasses, flashlight with spare bulbs and batteries, lip salve, gaiters, crampons. Other items: Insect repellent, toilet articles, diary, toilet roll, laundry soap, wet ones, pocket knife, tie cord, towel, sewing kit, plasters, binoculars, camera, film, cards and personal medical kit.

Trekking Seasons

Spring and Autumn ( Feb- May-Sep-Nov.): The best time of the year to trek Nepal. Warm days and clear sky make it ideal for all treks and also for rafting.

Winter (Dec - Jan): This season is also quite good but the air can be quite cold at high altitudes However low altitude trekking and jungle safari can be done. This is a very good time if you want to avoid crowds.

Monsoon ( June - Aug): These three rainy months are characterized by clouds and humid heat at lower altitudes therefore not suitable for trekking in most parts of Nepal but still possible to trek some part of Nepal . However this is the best time to visit Tibet as it is warm and rain shadow regions north of himalaya like Mustang are out of reach of the rains because of the massive himalayan barrier and thus they aren't affected by the monsoon rains.

Climate

Nepal has four main seasons namely Winter (December - February), Spring (March - May), Summer( June - August), Autumn (September - November). Nepal can be visited the whole year round and Beauty Nepal Adventure offers you trek for all seasons.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude Sickness is often known as "Acute Mountain Sickness", if not treated when symptoms first appear can lead to death. It is effect of altitude on those who ascend to rapidly to elevations above 3000 meters, early mountain sickness will manifest itself in headache, loss of appetite and sleeplessness. Never ignore the waiting more serious symptoms can be occurred, the care for AMS in descend immediately to a lower altitude. Staff of Beauty Nepal Adventure have good knowledge of AMS and general treatment.

Trekking Permit

The Department of Immigration located at New Baneswor, (Tel 494267, 494263,494273) issues permit for the tourists who intend to trek to any part of the country. Trekking permit fee for different trekking areas are fixed as follows:

Trekking Area	Trekking Permit Fee
Mustang and Upper Dolpa	US$ 500 per person for the first ten days and US$ 50 per person per day thereafter.
Dolpa and Kanchenjunga	Equivalent to US$ 10 per person per week for the First four weeks and US$ 20 per week thereafter.
Manaslu	US$ 50(Dec-Aug) per person per week. US$ 70(Sept- Nov) per person per week.

Note: Trekking to Dolpa, Kanchenjunga, Manaslu, Simikot and Mustang can be undertaken through registered trekking agencies only.

The Package Trekking Price Cost (Tea House Trek)

Deluxe Trip -US 52$ Per day per Person Including All the meals, Accomodation, Both way transportation by private Car/Van, Grade A Lisence Guide, Sardar, Porter. Standard Trip - US 42$ Per day per Person Including All the meals, Accommodation, Both way transportation by private Car/Van, Grade B License Guide, Porter.Normal Trip - US 36$ Per day per Person Including All the meals, Accommodation, Both way transportation by private Car/Van, Grade B License Guide, Porter. -Above the price the Bar bills will be extra -The price can be discount for students and the group

Entry Fee For National Parks & Wildlife Conservation

S.N.	National Parks	Rs.
01	Langtang National Park	1000.00
02	Sagarmatha National Park	1000.00
03	RaRa National park	1000.00
04	Shey-Phoksndo National Park	1000.00
05	Khaptad National Park	1000.00
06	Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve	650.00
07	Makalu Barun Natioanl Park and Conservation Area	1000.00
08	Annapurna Conservation Area	2000.00
09	Kanchenjunga Conservation Area	2000.00
10	Koshi Tappu Wild Reserve	650.00
11	Shivapuri Water Shed Conservation Area	250.00
12	Chitwan National park	650.00
13	Royal Bardia national park	650.00
14	Parsa Wildlife Reserve	650.00
15	Sukla Phant Wildlife Reserve	650.00
16	Manaslu Conservation Park	1000.00
17	Manaslu Conservation Area	2000.00
18	Annapurna Conservation Area	2000.00
19	Kanchenjunga Conservation Area	1000.00
20	Langtang National Park	1000.00
21	Sagarmatha National Park	1000.00
22	Rara National Park	1000.00
23	Shey Phoksando National Park	1000.00
24	Makalu Barun National Park	1000.00
25	Khaptad National Park	1000.00
26	Koshi Tapppu Wild Reserve	500.00
27	Royal Chitwan National Park	500.00
28	Royal Bardia National Park	500.00
29	Parsa Wildlife Reserve	500.00
30	Sukla Phant Wildlife Reserve	500.00
31	Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve	500.00
32	Shivapuri Water Shed Consrevation	250.00

Rafting

For Hundreds of Years Nepal’s mountain scenery has drawn trekkers and climbers from all over the world. These mountains feed some of the worlds most challenging rafting and kayaking rivers, making Nepal a Mecca for those in search of the ultimate white water river experience. The unique combination of mountain scenery, warm water and diversity of cultures make Nepal a white water enthusiasts dream destination. For Hundreds of Years Nepal’s mountain scenery has drawn trekkers and climbers from all over the world. These mountains feed some of the worlds most challenging rafting and kayaking rivers, making Nepal a Mecca for those in search of the ultimate white water river experience. The unique combination of mountain scenery, warm water and diversity of cultures make Nepal a white water enthusiasts dream destination. We have successfully been organizing river journey for many years, dedicated to provide participant’s satisfaction, comfort and safety.

Kali Gandaki (3 Days): The Kali Gandaki after goddess Kali, rises in mustang, close to Tibet border. Big and difficult river, with beautiful un spoilt scenery, small gorges, jungles and an abundance of wildlife. Recommended as an accessible and relaxing river trip. A good river for small inflatable boats or for rafter and kayakers with limited experience. A classic, best-of-its-kind, trip that deserves to be more po

pular.

Seti (2 Days): A unique river passing through two beautiful and contrasting scenic areas. This river is relatively small in volume, blue and warm, it is recommended as a warm-up river for intermediate rafters, Kayakers and kayak clinic. The Seti Khola rises on the south-east slopes of Machhapuchhere and then flows south.

Marsyangdi (3 Days): The marsyangdi rises on the northern slopes of Annapurna Himal, flows east through an arid valley around Manang, and then swings south to join the Trishuli river at Mugling. One of the most outstanding class-5 rafting and kayaking river in the world. Continuously exhilarating white water with magnificent mountain backdrops.

Trisuli (1-3 Days): The Trisuli, one of Nepal's raft able rivers, due to its proximity to Kathmandu and its easy road access, for first time rafters it offers plenty of excitement. Many choose to incorporate a ride down the Trisuli with either a trip to Pokhara or to the Royal Chitwan National Park.

Karnali (10-12 Days): The Karnali river in Tibet near Mt. Kailash which is the holy place of Buddhists and the Hindus as it is the four-sided mountain from which four major rivers; the karnali, Indus, Sutlej and Brahamaputra (Tsangpo). This river provides one of the finest white water rafting and kayaking trips in the world. It has a length of nearly 400 kilometers, most of which is class 3-5, with only a few kilometers to portage. In the heart of the ‘wild west’ of Nepal, it is remote, un spoilt and committing. Only recommended for experienced expedition rafters and kayakers.

Sun Koshi (8-10 Dasy): Sun Koshi means ‘River of Gold’. The river rises near Tibet and is joined by the Bhote Koshi just downstream from Bahrabise. The Sun Koshi is to the east of Kathmandu and is river for those who want a longer wilder and more remote adventure. Big rapids, warm water, remote area, beautiful scenery and great camping make this a classic multi-day river trip. An excellent trip for intermediate and advanced kayakers. Rafters should be reasonably fit and comfortable on big water.

Bhote Koshi (1-2 Days): Bhote Koshi is the main branch of the Sun Koshi and it is near the Tibetan border at kodari. The river is followed by the Arniko Highway from kathmandu to Lhasa. A beautiful mountain river, only a few hours from Kathmandu, offering and navigating Nepal’s most challenging river rafting or kayaking trips at all classes of difficulty provide excitement, thrill and wilderness. Recommended for intermediate and advanced rafter and kayakers.

Jungle Safari

Safari tour A huge diversity of land exposes Nepal's fascinating diversity with the highest crystal mountains, terraced middle hills and flat plains from north to south. The dense foliage of the southern lowlands offers an exciting jungle safari tour with its rich habitat and population of wildlife a massif wild family.

Certain areas of the southern flatlands have been declared as National Parks and wildlife reserves, here let us inform you about some of the greatest jungle safari parks in Nepal.


Royal Chitwan National Park 3 day/ 2night package
In southern Nepal, Chitwan is the richest wildlife reserve in Asia with an area of 932 sq,km. Easy access in 5-6 hours by bus riding or 35 minute short flight from Kathmandu or Pokhara. The home of the indigenous people, the Tharu, and the home of the unique one- horned rhino, majestic Royal Bengal Tiger, Many species of deer, and the largest number of zoological species of local and migrated birds more than 450, Crocodile family with the rare species of Marshmugger, Gharial and numerous flora & Fauna to be discovered. Elephant riding and walking through the woods makes the unique experience of a safari interesting.

Day 01 Arrival & pick up from the bus stop/ Airport welcome drinks, Lunch, briefing of the program, village excursion, Sunset viewing, candle light dinner.

Day 02 Wake up call/tea/ coffee elephant back safari, breakfast, Jungle walk, canoeing, Tharu stick dance and dinner

Day 03 Wake up call / tea / coffee bird watching, breakfast, transfer to bus park/airport & departure.

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve 3 day 2 nights

A recently promoted safari park lies in eastern Nepal. The reserve provides the best opportunity to spot hundreds of rare species of birds and fresh water Dolphins. This reserve is of course, the least explored but also can be combined to the trip to India, which enhances the journey and allows you to enjoy nature.

Day 01 Arrival & pick up from the bus stop/ airport welcome drink, lunch, briefing of the program, excursion by Bullock cart ride, Sunset viewing, Slide show, candle light dinner.

Day 02 Wake up call/ tea/ coffee elephant back safari, breakfast, hiking, canoeing, culture dance and dinner.

Day 03 Wake up call / tea / coffee Jeep drive / bird watching, breakfast transfer to bus park/ airport & departure.

National Park and Conservation fee

Eight areas of Nepal have been designated national parks. They are Langtang, Rara, Royal Chitwan, Sagarmatha (Everest), Shey Phoksondo, Khaptad, Bardia, and Makalu - Barun National Parks. Trekking in any of these national parks areas requires a park permit, which can be obtained at the National Park and Conservation counter office on payment of NRs1000.00 each. Similarly trekkers are required to pay NRs2000.00 for every trekker going into the Annapurna Region. This fee is utilized for environment conservation and maintenance of the area

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

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

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

Objectives of Visit Nepal Year 2011.

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

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

Nepal Tourism Year 2011 Featured Packages

Annapurna Trekking

Annapurna Trekking has been well admired and well-liked by the trekkers, therefore it is also wildly known as a trekker's paradise. The trekkers can not only see the scenic views of high Himalayas but also the snow leopards, blue sheep and other species of the birds namely kokla, blood pheasant etc, butterflies and insects, because, the upper sub-alpine grassland of the Annapurna region harbors these some of the rare species of the earth. Furthermore, the native plants can also be found in... [+] Read More

Everest Trekking

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

Langtang Trekking

Langtang valley trekking is mainly to have trek in the remote but the most amazing valley of Langtang region, where you can have an exciting moment at high mountain lakes Gosainkund and the beautiful valley ' Helambu' and you can also visit the Langtang National park and then have a trek to the end of the valley to view wonderful ice flutes of Gyangchempo.While we go for the trekking in the region, we drive along the Trisuli River north of Kathmandu, through Trasuli Bazaar...[+] Read More

Camping Trekking

The camping trekking is fully organized and supported, with a team of guides, cooks, sherpas and porters to accompany you. Our porters carry all the trekking gear, food, fuel and personal belongings and the cooks prepare hot meals. Trekkers need to carry only a small bag as required for the day. At night, tents for dining, sleeping and ablutions tents are provided and set up mattresses and down-filled sleeping bags, tables and seating are arranged by our staffs. In a typical camping...[+] Read More

Jungle Safari in Nepal

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

Rafting in Nepal

Nepal is paradise for the Rafting, as it has earned the reputation of being one the best destinations for white water Rafting. The riverin Nepal are the best among the rivers in the world for river rafting sports, and no doubt white water rafting in Nepal is never-ending thrills in the untamed rivers. Therefore, it is no doubt that cruising dows n to rushing rivers of crashing waves and swirling rapids can make up excitement of a lifetime. You may have remarkable experience, while rafting...[+] Read More

Peak Climbing Nepal

Peak Climbing in Nepal is so popular in the world that no where else in the earth can be found to be such a exciting places like Nepal, where you can have summit on the snow capped peaks and view the panoramic views of around. Nepal is the home of the eight highest peaks of the world above 8000 meters and over 1300 peaks above 6,000 m. At present government has opened only 326 peaks for the purpose of expedition above 6,000m and additional 33 minor peaks have been designed...[+] Read More

Adventures Activities in Nepal

Adventure in Nepal is no doubt rich. There are number of choices, for people, who have time can go to trekking, rafting, wildlife safari and for those who have constraints of time, there are mountain flights that impart a panoramic and scenic views of mountains including the highest peaks of the world. The plane that departs from Kathmandu, cruising close to the breathtaking massifs of rocks and ice alongside the Himalaya to give you scenic views of the snow peaks and then...[+] Read More

Sightseeing Tour in Nepal

As Nepal is a beautiful country having diverse historical, cultural and religious sites, you can explore this virgin world only though tour. We 'Outfitter Nepal' is always committed to assist you to have any kinds of tour in Nepal so that you can explore the diversity, cultural and heritage sites, lifestyle of friendly people, flora and fauna etc of Nepal with the fullest. Kathmandu is not only the capital city of Nepal but also known to be capital of temples and historical sites as there are many...[+] Read More


EverestEXPEDITION

Even though the highest mountain in the world has been conquered many times in this forty six year since the first conquest. Everest is still as mysterious, beguiling and magnificent as ever. Standing incredibly tall silhouetted against the shared sky of Nepal and Tibet, this mountain has many names: Chomolungma, Sagarmatha, Qomolungma or Mt. Everest. Which ever name one chooses, its mystery still lives on. It was first climbed by Sir E. Hillary & Tenzing Norgay in 1953. 
Perhaps the most colorful story about the early attempts on Everest is the one involving Captain J. Noel and his native companions. He disguised himself as a Mohammedan and made a journey from Darjeeling through Northwest Sikkim and round the north of Kanchanjunga in an attempt to reach Everest. Unfortunately, not even the disguise could see him through. His mission was out short just sixty five kms from Everest when a posse of Tibetan soldiers forced them to turn back. Although there are a dozen or so routes on Mt. Everest we follow the classical route, traditionally the most reliable way to the summit.

AnnapurnaEXPEDITION

Annapurna is a Sanskrit word which when broken down, would mean, "Sustenance" and "filled with". So the name would translate into "The Goddess rich in Sustenance" or simply "The Provider". It was first climbed by M. Herzog & L. Lachenal in 1950. The Annapurna Himal and the Lamjung Himal stretch from the Kali Gandaki in the west to the Marshyangdi in the east. Four summits make up Annapurna with the entire massif forming a barrier on the northern side of the Pokhara Valley in Nepal. The main summit stands to the west of the Annapurna Sanctuary. Little was known about the mountain until 1949when Dr. A. Heim from the windows of a Dakora aircraft viewed Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. The aircraft could not fly high enough for proper observation or for photographs, still the next year, June 3rd 1950, Annapurna was conquered. It was the first eight thousanders to be climbed; this feat was accomplished by the French. 
However, all the routes on the mountain pose severe difficulties and hence it is probably why fewer climbers have reached the summit in comparison to other 80000m peaks.


Manaslu expedition (8168m)
Manaslu lies in the Nepal Himalaya, Budi Gandaki valley. This mountain was previously known as Kutan l. 'tang' being the Tibetan word for flat place, thereby describing the mountain's general summit. It was then renamed Manaslu which comes from the Sanskrit word "Manasa" meaning "intellect" or "soul". It was first climbed by T. Imanishi & g. Norbu in 1956. Many consider the three peaks of Manaslu as Japanese peaks as they were the first to reach its summit in 1956. There exist half a dozen different routes on Manaslu today. The south face of this "mountain of intellect" is arguably the toughest in climbing history.
Our caravan route takes off at Sama Gaon, wTRAVEL INFORMATION

Direct flights to Nepal

BY AIR:

Nepal Airlines is the national flag carrier of Nepal with flights to/from Delhi, Dubai,  Doha, Bangkok, Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur. Other international airlines operating from/ to Kathmandu are Air Arabia (Sharjah), Air China (Lhasa), Arkefly (Amsterdam), Bahrain Air (Bahrain), Biman Bangladesh, (Dhaka), Buddha Air (Paro), China Eastern Airlines (Kunming), China Southern Airlines (Guanzhou), Dragon Air (Hong Kong), Druk Air (Delhi, Paro), Etihad Airways (Abu Dhabi), Flydubai (Dubai), GMG Airlines (Dhaka), Gulf Air (Bahrain), Indian Airlines (Delhi, Kolkotta, Varanasi), Jet Airways (Delhi), Jet Lite (Delhi), Kingfisher Airlines (Delhi), Korean Air (Seoul), Oman Air (Muscat), Pakistan International Airlines (Karachi, Islamabad), Qatar Airways (Doha), Silk Air (Singapore), Thai Airways (Bangkok) and United Airways (Dhaka). 

Airport Tax: 
  Tourists are levied NRS. 565 (including VAT) at the departure terminal along with the Passenger Service Charge (Airport Tax)




Note: The new Airport Tax is equally applicable to Nepalis as well as non-Nepalis flying out from Nepal.




Traveling by road/Entry Points 
All visitors entering Nepal by land must use these designated entry points and may not enter from any other point:


Nepal-India border 
Kakarbhitta
Birgunj
Belhiya, Bhairahawa
Nepalgunj
Dhangadi
Mahendra Nagar

Kodari, Nepal-China borderhere incidentally Mastance from the locals. They blamed the presence of the heathen foreigners for the avalanches and pestilence on the valley. They felt that Japanese had insulted the gods dwelling in the mountains thereby angering them into creating such adverse c