Camp @ Ghandruk

camp
Originally uploaded by www.firante.com

The Annapurna Base Camp Trekking

Respected and worshipped, Annapurna is truly awe-inspiring. Starting from Nayapul, this trail leads up to the Annapurna Base Camp and Machapuchare Base Camp, deep in the heart of the Annapurnas. Annapurna Base Camp is a natural ringed by Annapurna South and Annapurna I, Varahashikhar, Gangapurna and the holy mountain Macchapucchre (Fish Tail). The first few days are spent traveling through quaint Gurung villages and lush forests before reaching more barren and rugged terrain.

The trail to Annapurna Base Camp threads up the valley into the sanctuary where it gradually gives way to a gray screen and scrub before reaching snow fields, there are no villages to speak of for five days. Annapurna Base Camp trek is a wonderful trek with some tremendous views, from base camp a labyrinth of mountains tower almost vertically above with Annapurna I in dominance. An hour or two is spent here taking in the high mountains before commencing the return journey. Five further days are taken returning to Pokhara. Annapurna Base Camp trek is a good introduction to higher altitude without being too strenuous.

Trek Facts
Duration: 17 days
Starting from: Pokhara
Ending at: Pokhara
Grade: Moderate
Highest access of the trek: Annapurna Base Camp 4130 m.)
Culture: Gurung
Mode of trekking: Guest House
Himalayan sights: Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Varahashikhar, Gangapurna, Fish Tail etc.
Most attraction of the Trek: Himalayan views, unique Gurung village, Annapurna base camp, Rhododendron forest

Outlined Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival - Hotel transfer - tour briefing
Day 02: At leisure in Kathmandu
Day 03: Drive to Pokhara, sightseeing lake side, peace sutupa, Devis fall, hotel over night.
Day 04: Drive to Nayapul and trek to Tikhedunga, Overnight Hotel
Day 05: Tikhedhunga - Ghorepani (2750m)
Day 06: Poon Hill for sunrise (3193m) - Tadapani (2590m)
Day 07: Tadapani - Chomrong (2170m)
Day 08: Chomrong - Bamboo (23350m)
Day 09: Bamboo - Deurali (2505m)
Day 10: Trek to Annapurna base camp (4230m)
Day 11: Annapurna Base Camp - Dovan (2505m)
Day 12: Dovan - Chhomrong (2170m)
Day 13: Chhomrong - Ghandrung (1940m)
Day 14: Ghandrung – Pokhara
Day 15: Fly Pokhara - Kathmandu
Day 16: At leisure in Kathmandu, shopping, Hotel.
Day 17: Departure

PRICE: (Per Person)

US $ 993.00 (5-6 Pax)
US $ 912.00 (7-8 Pax)
US $ 837.00 (9 Pax & above)

PRICE INCLUDES
 Breakfast, lunch, dinner and tea house accommodations during the trek
 Experienced Guide
 Sightseeing & Private transfers in Kathmandu
 Treks porters/helpers
 Annapurna Conservation fees
 All guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
 Airport transfers with an escort
 Insurance of the guide and porters
 4 Nights Hotel in Kathmandu in BB
 Flight Pokhara to Kathmandu US $ 93
 TIMS permits

PRICE EXCLUDES
 International flight & departure tax
 Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu
 Personal gears & clothing (available on hire)
 Tips, any expenses of personal nature, client's insurance, entry fees for sightseeing
 Flight excess luggage
 Entry fees while sightseeing

Mt. Kailash tour via Simikot (Nepal / Tibet)

In May 1993 the governments of Nepal and China agreed to open the border between their countries. From that time on, travelers are able to make tours to Mt. Kailash & Lake Manasarovar through Humla, Nepal’s most remote district in the Northwest of the country. This route is the shortest and most practical for trekkers in terms of elevation and distance. Besides that, it treats its visitors with astounding views and great richness in culture and history.
The tour to Mt. Kailash starts from Simikot, situated at an elevation of 2910 meters, and climbs up to Nara La pass (4530 meters) before reaching the arid Tibetan Plateau. From Simikot it takes a 6-day’s journey to reach the Tibetan border town (Zhang-mu). This gives you plenty of time to acclimatize to higher altitudes.
There is no direct air service from Kathmandu to Simikot. Travelers generally have to fly to Simikot via Nepalgunj, the regional hub of Western Nepal. Nepalgunj-Simikot flights only operate early in the morning, so we have one overnight in Nepalgunj to catch the early morning flight the next day.
The tour (Mt. Kailash & Lake Manasarovar tour) normally finishes at Zhang-Mu. It requires at least 20 days, but we can also finish your journey in Lhasa or extend it to other destinations.
Saga Dawa Festival at Mt. Kailash
Saga Dawa Festival is observed as one of the most important festival in Buddhist society all over the world. This festival held each year on the full moon day of the fourth lunar month of the Tibetan calendar (May / June). This festival is celebrated in honor of Sakyamuni's enlightenment. And this auspicious day coincide with three important events in Buddha's life, Birth, Nirvana and death.

Trek Facts

Duration: 22 days
Starting: Simikot, Humla
Ending: Zhangmu / Kodari border
Grade: Moderate / Hard
Highest access of the trek: 4345m Humla in Nepal, 5630m Mt. Kailash in Tibet
Culture: Chettries, Tibetans
Mode of trekking: Camping trek only
Himalayan sights: Mt. Saipal, Mt. Kailash, Mt. Gurla Mandata
Most attraction of the Trek: Rich culture, adventure, scenic beauty, civilization, Mt. Kailash & Lake Manasarovar

Outlined Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 02: Organisation Tibet-visa - Sightseeing-Tour in KTM with guide/bus.
Day 03: Transfer airport, flight to Nepalgunj
Day 04: Flight Nepalgunj – Simikot; start trekking day 01 (Simikot – Dharapori).
Day 05: Trekking day 02 (Dharapori – Kermi).
Day 06: Trekking day 03 (Kermi – Yalbang).
Day 07: Trekking day 04 (Yalbang – Tumkot Khola/village).
Day 08: Trekking day 05 (Tumkot Khola/village – Yari below Nara La).
Day 09: Trekking day 06 (crossing Nara La – Sher); meet cars, transfer to Purang / Taklakot.
Day 10: Drive from Purang to Manasarovar-Lake
Day 11: Explore day at Manasarovar, Visit Chiu Gompa, hiking to Gossul Gompa
Day 12: Saga Dawa Festival in Darboche (If your date coincides with the festival)
Day 13: Kora Mt. Kailash, day 1 (Darboche – Chuku Gompa – Drirapuk).
Day 14: Kora, day 2 (Drirapuk – Dölma La – camp 1 ½ hours before Zutrulpuk).
Day 15: Kora day 3 (camp – Zutrulpuk (visit Gompa) – Darchen); lunch; leave Darchen, drive to Hor Qu, c
Day 16: Start for jeep-drive Hor Qu to Paryang
Day 17: Jeep-drive Paryang to Saga.
Day 18: Jeep-drive, Saga to Nyalam / Zhangmu.
Day 19: Drive Zhangmu – Kodari – crossing border and continue to Border Resort for relax
Day 20: After lunch drive to KTM; hotel.
Day 21: Free day in KTM
Day 22: Departure

Trekking in Mt. Kailash Region

A Look and a poss for sure
Originally uploaded by www.firante.com

The holy mountain Kailash (6714m) and lake Manasarovar are situated on the artic Tibetan plateau of western Tibet. Tucked between the Gurla Mandata Mountain (7694m) in the southeast and Kunlung Mountain in the northwest. Mt. Kailash and Lake Manasarovar are worshiped by four different religions: Buddhist, Hindu, Jain, and Vaishnab. Mt. Kailash is one of the three pilgrimage sites in the area, collectively known as Kangri Tsosum. The other two are Ponri Ngaden and Lake Manasarovar. All are said to be at the heart of the ancient Shangshung kingdom.

Mt. Kailash is their soul mountain (lari), which they also call Yungdrung Gu Tse (the Nine story Swastika Mountain). This is the very place where it is stated that the sect legendary founder, Tonpa Shenrab, descended from heaven to earth. Lord Shiva, both creator and destroyer of life, is believed by Hindus to reside in the holy mountain.

Mt. Kailash and Lake Manasarovar remained unknown to the Western World until the eighteenth century, hidden behind some of the greatest natural barriers on earth. The First European to travel through the region was an Italian Jesuit missionary, Father Ippolito Desideri. In the winter of 1715 he crossed Western Tibet, a vast, sterile and terrible desert, following the course of Tsangpo river all the way to Lhasa. On the way, he passed Lake Manasarovar and a cloud-hidden mountain (Mount Kailash) that he reported was sacred to the powerful Tantrik wizard 'Urghien' or Padmasambhava.

The best time to make a tour to Mt. Kailash & Lake Manasarovar region is between mid-May and mid-October. During this time the weather in Mt. Kailash and Lake Manasarovar is generally stable and clear, with warm temperatures during the days and cool nights. July and August are usually warmer, but this is when the monsoon pushes beyond the Himalaya. Swelling the creeks and coating the valleys with greenery and wildflowers.

There are 3 different major gateways to start the tour to Mt. Kailash & Lake Manasarovar; Zhang-Mu, Lhasa and Simikot (far western border of Nepal).

The duration of the Tibet Mt. Kailash and Lake Manasarovar tour can be varied with starting from different points. It also depends on which places you would like to cover within your journey. According to your time frame or other requirements we can always customize the trip.

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Statues of Tenzing, Hillary and Boris erected in NTB premises

Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation has installed the statues of toursim heroes Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, Sir Edmund Hillary and Boris Lissanevitch in the premises of Nepal Tourism Board.

Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Sharat Singh Bhandari and Minister for Culture of Kaluga State of the Russian Federation Alexander Tipalovin inaugurated the statues amidst a ceremony on October 11.

Tenzing and Hillary were the first summiteers of Mt Everest while Boris had opened Nepal's first tourist standard hotel -- Royal Hotel. Many tourism entrepreneurs regard Boris as a pioneer of Nepali tourism. According to ministry sources, the statue of Boris was erected also because of the request of non-resident Nepalis.

The government, during Everest Golden Jubilee Celebration in 2003, had offered honorary citizenship to Sir Edmund Hillary.

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Mountain Biking in Tibet

P1020566
Originally uploaded by www.firante.com

Tibet has to be the high point in any mountain bikers riding life. This remote and beautiful country lies hidden behind Mt. Everest and many more of the highest peaks in the world of the Great Himalayan range.

Mountain Biking in Tibet could be classified as one of the most demanding rides` open to cyclists. You have to deal with high altitude, long distances, various kinds of weather, bad road conditions and change of life style. So biking in Tibet could be one of the highest in the world. Proper acclimatisation is vital to anyone hoping to complete this expedition. For this purpose we spent four days acclimatizing, while sightseeing and enjoying the city and surroundings of Lhasa.

Biking in Tibet may include following itinerary:
»Biking in Eastern Tibet
»Kailash Bike Tour
»Khasgar Bike Tour
»Lhasa to Kathmandu Bike Tour

Biking in Nepal

Biking in Nepal
Originally uploaded by www.firante.com

We Firante Treks & Expedition do operates mountain biking tours in Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan & India.

We have been engaged with this business since 1997, now we are expert in organizing adventure Trekkings, climbings, tours, Jungle safaries and much more.

for more details you can always welcome to click on www.firante.com for trekking, biking, tours, climbing or please do let us know what you would be interested in doing.

New Species Of Flora And Fauna Discovered In The Eastern Himalayas

A decade-long study made by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in Nepal, India and Bhutan has revealed the discovery of at least 353 new species of flora and fauna in the Eastern Himalayas between 1998 and 2008.The discoveries include 242 plants, 16 amphibians, 16 reptiles, 14 fish, two birds, and two mammals and at least 61 new invertebrates.Forest minister Deepak Bohara released the report at a function in Kathmandu, Monday. Some of the species have been named 'nepalensis' attributing their orgin to Nepal.

Department of Immigration to introduce Online Visa Application System

Aug 6th: The Department of Immigration (DOI) will be introducing online visa application system for foreigners intending to visit Nepal soon. Once the new system is put in place, a foreigner can apply for visa online and collect it upon arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) without having to stand in queue for hours. Immigration officials will be able to issue visa immediately as the details of the visiting guests will be available online. .The DOI announcement comes in the wake of the government plan to increase the number of inbound tourists to 1 million in the tourism year 2011.The DOI is also developing integrated computerized data of foreigners visiting Nepal

New projects for Nepal Tourism Year 2011

July 20th: To make Nepal Tourism Year (NTY) 2011 a grand success and foster wider economic growth, the government has planned a ‘one-district, one-destination’ identification program. For the promotion of NTY 2011, the government will prepare a one-district, one-destination identification program with infrastructure development and promotion of particular places.The government will also focus on developing Nepal as an attractive venue for international and regional conventions.

New budget focuses on Nepal Tourism Year

The new budget for the fiscal year 2009-10 has laid special emphasis on the year-long Nepal Tourism Year 2011 campaign.

Through the budget speech, the government has accorded high priority to the campaign which aims to bring in one million visitors to the country. The government has devised a slogan ‘Nepali Temperament, Welcome and Hospitality of Guest’ for the success of the campaign. Another highlight of the budget is that it has stressed the need for forging partnership with the private sector to develop attractive tour packages and promote Nepal's tourism attractions.

The government also plans to hold an interaction with all Everest summiteers so as to chalk out future strategies to promote the mountaineering sector. The government has also tried to diversify the tourism industry in a bid to extend the length of stay of foreign visitors. The government will conduct a detail study to develop Gheralik of Argakhanchi and operate rafting from Balefi to Chatara and Ramdighat to Narayanghat. The new budget has also given special attention to tourism development in Muktinath and Damodar Kunda. It has also included provision to conduct feasibility study for operating cable car service to Muktinath. Upgrading trekking trails in Khaptad Area has also been included in the budget.

The budget has also allocated funds for the development of Birat, Bideha, Sahales, Simroungarh, Lumbini and Karnali-Chisapani areas as tourism spots. Likewise, the government plans to promote Pathivara, Barahchhetra, Pasupatinath, Manakamana, Muktinath, Sworgadwari and Mallikarjun as "Seven Spiritual Destinations". Similarly, the government will develop Maithili, Bhojpuri, Tharu, Lapcha, Limbu and Dhimal settlements as ‘Art Villages’.

Lhasa receives over 0.7 million tourists in first half year

From January to June of 2009, the tourism industry of Lhasa has rapidly recovered, sources from Lhasa Tourism Bureau.

In the first half year of 2009, Lhasa has received 733,100 tourists with an increase of 143.21% including 28,800 inbound tourists, 480% higher than that of 2008. In all, Lhasa has embraced 704,300 inland tourists with an increase of 137.57 per cent comparing with the corresponding period in 2008, up by 5.63 per cent than that of 2007. Lhasa harvests 668 million yuan tourism revenue, up by 183.05 per cent.

Since June, the reception amount for hotels and restaurants in Lhasa has resumed, and the occupancy rate for hotels comes to 60 per cent in June.

According to the principal concerned, supports from different departments have given a hand to the development of tourism in Lhasa and in the second half year, more tourists will be attracted as some large-scale activities such as "Miss Asia" Tibet Division Contest, 4th Namtso International Hiking Convention and the annual Shoton Festival will kick off.

Trekking gear list - Firante treks and Expedition

Body wear

T-Shirt, long sleeves, half pants, long trouser, warm jackets, fleece jackets, Gore- Tax wind & water proof jackets and trouser, warm trouser, sleeping bag, down jackets, rain coat/umbrella, inner wears.

Head wear

Sun hat, woollen hat/fleece hat, sun glasses, snow goggles, and scarf

Hand wear

Gloves, fleeces finger gloves, gore-tax water proof gloves

Foot wear

Warm woollen Socks, trekking boots, sandals, running shoes and snow gaiters

Accessories

Personal toiletries, personal first aid kit, sun block, lip cream, shampoo, soap, shavers, moisturizer, passport copies, pocket knife, camera and film, towel, water bottle, music and books, trekking poles, flashlight/torch, repairing kits, water purifying tablets.

What you carry for the trek:

Please bring the equipments listed above. Please pack your gear for the trek into a duffel bag or rucksacks and a small day bag for you. The larger bag with your kit will be carried by the porters to meet you each evening. You should bring a day pack to carry by yourself for water, rain jackets, hat, gloves, camera, money etc. The weather in the mountain is changeable so you will need some warm cloths with you on your day pack.

What to do about the left over baggage:

One day before your departure for the trek you could leave the valuable things which you do not need on the trek such as passport, visa card, flight tickets in our safety box and the rest of the things you could store it in our store rooms.

Camping trek:

Travelling in the mountain regions at your own pace and uses tented accommodations at the end of the day. You will have cooks to prepare meals, guide and porters to carry load but we expect you to carry small personal bag packs.

On all of our camping treks, we observe the need to tread as lightly as possible. All waste paper is burnt. All other non-biodegradable garbage will be brought back. All water is purified; vegetables are treated with a water iodine base.

Meal: During our camping treks, our cook staff prepares simple but hygienic, nutritious and delicious meal.

Drinking water: In camping trek our cook staff will provide properly boiled and purified water for drinking and also we can take water purifying tablets or liquid. In Kathmandu, we suggest you to stay with mineral water or purify with water purifying tablets.

PERSONAL HYGIENE: A limited amount of warm water will be served each morning for washing (on camping treks). Teahouses usually have showers in lodges. We suggest not polluting streams or river waters.

EQUIPMENT: We provide sleeping tent, kitchen tent cum dinning tent in one and other necessary equipment for camping trek but you need to bring all your personal equipments etc.

HEALTH PRECAUTIONS: Check with your doctor and make sure that you have sound health. The most common health problem is diarrhea. We minimize the risks by consuming meals in camp (except on the teahouse treks). Our staff will attempt to ensure basic safety measures as medical services are severely limited or non-existent in these remote areas. However, a well-equipped first-aid kit will be carried by our staff.

Manaslu Round Trek June 2009

 

-----------------------------------------------
Surendra Lama
Managing Director
 
Firante Treks & Expeditions P. Ltd.
GPO Box: 8974 CPC 200, Thamel, Kathmandu
Tel/Fax: (+977 1) 4414381, Mobile: (+977) 9851011005
Email: surendra@firante.com, URL: www.firante.com
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Recognized by | Deptt. Of Tourism, Govt. of Nepal
Recognized by | Nepal Tourism Board (NTB)
Recognized by | Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA)
Member | Trekking Agencies Association Of Nepal ( TAAN)
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Adventure / Sports Tourism - Attraction of Nepal

Nepal represents a blend of ancient history, vibrant cultures and scenic grandeur. Located between China and India, Nepal’s main geographical features include show-capped peaks, lower mountains, mid hills and fertile plains of tropical jungles. Nearly one-third of the total length of the Himalayas and 8 of the world’s 14 highest peaks lie in Nepal. The land-locked country covers an area 147,181 sq. kilometers ranging from 70 meters to the highest point at 8848 meters above sea level. Nepal’s popularity as a tourist destination has increased vastly over the years. While trekking and mountaineering have long been popular, an entire range of other activities are also being carried out.

Trekking

Trekking is the highlight of a visit to Nepal. On account of the wide range of geographical features, the country nurtures a variety of vegetation and landscape. In addition to the natural endowments is the rich Himalayan culture. Thousands of visitors trek to different parts of Nepal every year to experience the charm of nature and culture. Most treks go through altitude between 1000 to 3000 meters, although some popular parts reach over 500 meters.

Protected regions along the Himalayas, like Shey-Phoksundo National park, Annapurna Conservation Area, Manaslu Eco-Tourism Area, Langtang National Park, Sagarmatha National Park and Makalu Barun National Park provide excellent trekking options. For group trekkers arrangement for food and accommodation are managed by the trekking crew, while independent trekkers can find night rest and food halt at small lodges and tea houses that dot the main trails. Independent trekkers should be self sufficient. In remote areas like Makalu, Kanchanjanga in East Nepal or Jumla, Dolpa, Humla in West Nepal, one must be self-sufficient in terms of food and water. For further details - www.firante.com

Boating

Nepal provides excellent opportunities for boating from glacier-fed lakes up north down to where rivers ease into the Terai plains. With famous lakes like Phewa, Begnas and Rupa, Pokhara is one of the most popular destinations for boating.

In the terai, one can go canoeing on Narayani or Rapti rivers near Chitwan National Park. Boats and canoes can also be rented from local dealers on hourly basis. Pokhara and Chitwan are accessible both by air and road from Kathmandu. A wide variety of accommodation and other facilities are easily available in both the places.

Rock climbing

Rock climbing is another challenging sport for outdoor lovers. Most of the areas for rock climbing are situated towards the north of Kathmandu Valley in the vicinity of the Nagarjun forest and the Shivapuri National Park Trip to these places can be combined with hiking, bird watching, nature tours and other activities. Nagarjun, 3 kilometers from Kathmandu City can be reached via Balaju near the New Bus Park. Shivapuri can be reached via Budhanilkantha which is 9 kilometers away form Kathmandu.

Bungy Jumping

The ultimate thrill of a bungy jump can be experienced at one of the best sites in the world. Nepal’s bungy jumping site is situated 160 meters over the wild river Bhote Koshi. The site is located close to the Nepal-Tibet border at Barahbise and is a three-hour bus ride from Kathamndu. A package deal includes the jump, bus ride to the site and even meals.

Golf

The popularity of golf is on the increasing stage in Nepal having five golf courses: Royal Nepal Golf Course and Gokarna Forest Golf Resort in Kathmandu, Himalayan Golf Club and Fulbari Resort Golf Course in Pokhara and Nirvana Country Club in Dharan. The best time for a play is during the dry season between October and March. Golf clubs in Kathmandu and Pokhara offer excellent courses with magnificent view of the Himalayas.

Golf is one of the most expensive sports, was started in Nepal by the Royal families. The history of golf in Nepal goes back to the time when a delegation of Rana ministers returned home with golf clubs from a visit to Scotland. They started playing golf in what is today's Gaucharan. The first real golf tournament Lava Cup was started in 1920.

The Gokarna Forest Golf Resort is one of the finest in South Asia. It is a 72-course golf area with 18 holes. The course is set in an old forest area of the Valley. Near the resort is Harmony Spa, for soothing golf senses. Established in 1829, Royal Nepal Golf Course in Kathmandu's Til Ganga is one of the oldest of Nepal and of Asia. The course was conferred the title of 'Royal' in 1911.

The Himalayan Golf Club in Pokhara situated about 6 kilometers away from the city is a recently completed pro-championship designed 9 holes golf course which is located in a beautiful amphitheater like setting of a river canyon scene with a panoramic view of the Annapurna Himalayan range.

Jungle Safari

The tropical jungles of Nepal’s Terai preserve some of the vest wildlife habitat in the subcontinent. Jungle safaris on elephant back or jeep rides are offered at Parsa Wildlife Reserve, Bardia National Park, Chitwan National Park and Shukla Phanta Wildlife Reserve, all located in Terai. The best time to visit the Terai is during winter months when weather is more temperate. A wild range of tourist facilities are available in and around the areas.

Mountain Biking

Nepal’s diverse terrain is what mountain bikers’ dreams are made of. Biking offers an environmentally sound way of exploring the country. It is possible to go biking the entire length of Nepal. Centuries – old dirt roads and trails offer a chance to go on extended trips to exotic locals like Annapurna and Kanchanjunga areas. 21 to 27 gear bicycles are recommended when riding through tough terrain. Mountain bikes are available for rent for a day or longer in numerous bicycle rental outlets in and around Kathmandu or Pokhara. Riders can explore rims and ridges of Kathmandu and Pokhara through off routes that weave in and out of the cities. Food and accommodation are easily available around valley and the main trail. However, it is recommended to use the services of licensed biking companies, www.firante.com , www.adventureone.info

Hunting

Licensed hunting is allowed in Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve in West Nepal. Dhorpatan is a prime habitat of blue sheep, ghoral, serow, Himalayan tahr, black bear, pheasant and partridge. Endangered species here are chir pheasant and red panda. Hunting is allowed only after acquiring license from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation in Kathmandu and is restricted to a certain time in a year. Dhorpatan is four days treks from Baglung which is 72km from Pokhara. The best time to visit Dhorpaton is during February through April and August through October. Accommodation is offered in tented camps by agencies or at one of the village houses.

Honey Hunting

Honey hunting is an age-old tradition here in Nepal. Local honey hunters show their exceptional skill by hanging themselves from cliffs as high as 300 meters using bamboo ladders and hemp ropes, while harvesting the honeycombs. See the spectacular honey hunting on the steep bee cliffs to experience the tradition and culture of the local people. See them while you trek in the foothills of The Himalayas.

Rafting, Kayaking and Canyoning

Rafting is one of the most exciting ways of exploring the wilderness of Nepal. Option ranges from paddle rafting a team to kayaking alone in the water. Yet another extremely popular water-sport option is canyoning to explore hidden landscapes. The best time for these activities is October through mid-December and March through early May. The government has opened 16 rivers graded on a scale of 1 to 5 for commercial rafting. Since safety is of utmost importance choosing veteran rafting company is a wise move. It is also important to observe all the safety rules and precautions provided by the River Guide.

Mountain Flights

Mountain flights offer passengers a spectacular view of the Himalayan peaks. The one-hour mountain flight takes within camera range of some of the highest peaks in the world. The peaks seen are Gosaithan, Dorje Lhakpa, Phurbi Chyachu, Choba Bhamare, Mt. Gaurishanker, Melungtse, Chugimago, Mt. Number, Karyolung, Cho-Oyu, Gyachungkang, Pumori, Nuptse and finally Mt. Everest. Mountain flights are offered by several airlines especially in the morning from domestic airport in Kathmandu.

Paragliding

Paragliding in Nepal gives an opportunity for aerial view of the Himalayas. Pokhara, the beautiful lakeside town at the foot of the Annapurna Mountains offers paragliding services. Best season is from Octover through April. There are various deals for the paragliding veterans and novices. Three-day introduction course is offered to beginners while tandem flights where one can fly with instructor are offered.

Ultra Light Aircraft

Ultralight aircrafts offer a breath-taking bird’s-eye view of Pokhara Valley and the surrounding mountains. Best season is from October through April. Flights take place from sunrise to 11 a.m. and from 3 p.m. to sunset every day during these months. In the half-hour flight, one can fly over Pokhara city, Phewa Lake, Sarangkot hill and ger a close to the Mt. Fishtail (Maccha Puchhre). Another option is the coploration of the Annapurna range from 12000 feet or higher in an hour. Pokhara is easily accessible from Kathmandu, Chitwan and other major towns.

Fishing and Angling

Fishing is also gaining popularity in Nepal. There are approximately 118 varieties of fresh-water fish in the Himalayan Rivers ranging from the much sought after mahseer to the mountain stream trout-like varieties. The best season to go fishing on the white waters is before and after the monsoon from February till April and October and November.

Mountaineering

Mountaineering is another prime attraction of Nepal. The mountains of Nepal have stood as irresistible landmarks for the world’s adventures since Nepal opened its door to visitors in the 1950s. Mountaineering can range from climbing the highest peak of the world to climbing lower peaks. Although by Himalayan standards 33 “trekking peaks” are considered minor peaks, they nonetheless provide snow and ice-climbing opportunities and are technically quite challenging.

Climbing gears can be bought or rented in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Many of the mountaineering and trekking companies also offer packages, where they provide gear, food, transportation, guides, porter services and also arrange for insurance coverage. Knowledge of altitude sickness and acclimatization process is a must for every mountaineer. The fatal sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can he dangerous for climbers ascending 3000 meters and above. Symptoms include headache, loss of appetite and sleeplessness. Immediate descent or evacuation to lower altitude is the best cure.

History Of Mount Everest (Sagarmatha)

Age of Everest:

Everest was formed about 60 million years ago

Elevation:

8848 Meter

Name in Nepal:

Sagarmatha (means: goddess of the sky)

In Tibet:

Chomolungma: (means: mother goddess of the universe)

Named after:

Sir George Everest and Nepali name ‘Sagarmatha’ given by Historian Babu Ram Achraya

Location:

Latitude 27° 59' N.....Longitude 86° 56' E. It's summit ridge separates Nepal and Tibet

First Ascent:

May 29,1953 by Tenzing Norgay, NP, and Sir Edmund Hillary, NZ via the South Col Route

First Solo Ascent:

Aug. 20,1980, Reinhold Messner, IT, via the NE Ridge to North Face

First winter Ascent:

Feb. 17,1980 -L.Cichy and K. Wielicki, POL

First Ascent by an American:

May 1,1963, James Whittaker, via the South-Col

Mt.Everest rises a few millimeters each year due to geological forces.

First Ascent by a Woman:

May 16,1975, Junko Tabei, JAP, via the South-Col

First Ascent by an American Woman:

Sep.29,1988, Stacey Allison, Portland, OR via the South-East Ridge

First Oxygen less Ascent:

May 8, 1978- Reinhold Messner, IT, and Peter Habeler, AUT, via the South-East Ridge

First woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest from both north & south sides:

Cathy O'Dowd (S.A.) South May 25,1996/North '99

Fastest Ascent from South:

Babu Chhiri Sherpa 34, NP-16 hours and 56 minutes (5-21-2000)

Fastest Ascent (north side):

Hans Kammerlander (IT) May,24,1996, via the standard North Col Ridge Route, 16 hours 45 minutes from base camp

Youngest person:

Sambu Tamang (NP) 16 on May,5,1973

Oldest Person:

Lev Sarkisov May,12,1999 -60 yrs. 161 days

Most Ascents:

Eleven, 24th May 2000 Appa Sherpa became the first person to climb Everest 11 times-Ten, Ang Rita Sherpa, Babu Chiri Sherpa all ascents were oxygen-less.

Best and Worst Years on Everest:

1993, 129 summitted and eight died (a ratio of 16:1); in 1996, 98 summitted and 15 died (a ratio of 6½:1)

Highest cause cause of death:

Avalanches-about a (2:1) ratio over falls

Country with most deaths on mountain:

Nepal-46

Most dangerous area on mountain:

Khumbu Ice Fall-19 deaths

First ski descent:

Davo Karnicar (Slovenia) 10-7-2000

Last year without ascent: 1974

Last year without ascent: 1977

Corpses remaining on Everest: about 120

Longest stay on top:

Babu Chiri Sherpa stayed at the summit full 21 hours and a half

First Disabled Climber:

Tom Whittaker American) May 27, 1998

Largest team:

In 1975, China tackled Everest with a 410-member team.

Fastest descent:

In 1988, Jean-Marc Boivin of France descended from the top in just 11 minutes, paragliding.

Only climber to climb all 4 sides of Everest:

Kushang Sherpa, now an instructor with Himlayan Mountaineering Institute

First person to hike from sea level to summit with out oxygen. :

11th May 1990,Tim Macartney-Snape, Australian

Time To Climb:

A normal expedition lasts 60-90 days and is done during the months of April/May and October/November depending on conditions.

Tourism Minister visits NTB

Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Sarat Singh Bhandari paid an official visit to Nepal Tourism Board Tuesday for orientation to comprehend the activities and programs carried out by this Board.

During his visit, Chief Executive Officer of Nepal Tourism Board Prachanda Man Shrestha apprised him about the activities, programs, and plans of the NTB and constraints it faced. Minister Bhandari also interacted with the NTB officials.

Addressing the officials of NTB, he said that Nepal Tourism Board should play the role of coordinator of private sector and government bridging gap between two for development of tourism industry of Nepal.

It is imperative to empower Nepal Tourism Board, at this juncture, viewing the massive work that has been entrusted to position the destination image of Nepal, said Bhandari, adding, that he realized the resource constraints faced by this Board for carrying on gargantuan task of country promotion amidst the financial recession and travel turbulence witnessed in the world travel market.

“Nepal Tourism Year 2011 is a national program and in order to entrust the ownership of all the individuals and agencies, to make it successful, all district development committee should earmark at least some percentages of its budget for tourism development in the concept of "One District One Destination,” he opined.

Lauding the immense role NTB has to play in the days to come, and also to meet the expectation of all, he suggested NTB get ready to prepare itself to play the role of catalyst in between private sectors and the government in course of finding new products and making it reach to the international marketplace.

Trekking Permit / Fee

A) Trekking Permit

A trekking permit is a must to visit restricted areas mentioned below. To visit normal trekking areas, no permission is required but national park or conservation fees are required to pay.

B) Restricted areas which have been opened for Group Trekking

The following restricted areas are open only for group trekkers. And a trekking permit will not be issued to individual trekkers for such areas. The areas and required fees are as follows:

Dolpa district:

• Area of Lower Dolpa: Per week per person US$ 10 Or equivalent convertible foreign currency.
  
• Area of Upper Dolpa: For the first 10 days per person US $500 and After 10 days per day per person Us$50
  

Taplejung District:

• Kanchanjunga area: Per week per person US$ 10 Or equivalent convertible foreign currency.
  
• Areas of Olangchunggola, Lelep, Papung and Yamphudin Village Development Committee: same as above.
  

Mustang District:

• Upper Mustang: or the first 10 days per person US $500 and After 10 days per day per person US$50.
  

Gorkha District:

• Manaslu area: From September to November per week per person US$ 70 and After 7 days per day per person US$ 10.and From December to August per week per person US$ 50 and After 7 days per day per person US$ 7 /Or equivalent convertible foreign currency.
  
• Chhekampar & Chunchet VDC (Sirdibas-Lokpa-Chumling-Chhekampar -Nile-ChhuleArea: From September to November per person US$ 35 for first 8 days and From December to August per person US$ 25 for first 8 days Or equivalent convertible foreign currency.
  

Dolakha District:

• (Gauri Shankar & Lamabagar): Per week per person US$ 10 Or equivalent convertible foreign currency.
  

Humla District:

• Areas of Limi and Muchu village Development Committee, and area way to Tibet via Tangekhola of Darma Village Development committee:
  
• For the first 7 days per person US$ 50 and After 7 days per day per person US$ 7 Or equivalent convertible foreign currency.
  
• Area of Simikot to Yari: For the first 7 days per person US$ 50 and After 7 days per day per person US$ 7 Or equivalent convertible foreign currency.
  

Trekking fee of other restricted areas imposed by Nepal government

Rasuwa District:

• Thuman and Timure: per week per person US$ 10, Or equivalent convertible foreign currency.
  

Sankhuwasabha District:

• Makalu Region - Areas of Kimathanka, Chepuwa,Hatiya and Pawakhola Village Development Committee: For the first 4 weeks per week per person US$ 10 and After 4 weeks per week per person US$ 20, Or equivalent convertible foreign currency.
  

Solukhumbu District:

• Everest Region: All north-west area way from Thame to Nangpala of Namche Village development Committee: For the first 4 weeks per week per person US$ 10 and After 4 weeks per week per person US$ 20, or equivalent convertible foreign currency.
  

Manang District:

• Areas of Nar, Phu, and Northern area of Tilche Village of Thochhe Village Development committee: From September to November per week per person US$ 90 and December to August per week per person US$ 75 or equivalent convertible foreign currency.
  

Mugu District:

• Areas of Mugu, Dolpu, Pulu and Bhangri: For the first 7 days per person US $90 and After 7 days per day per person Us$15 Or equivalent convertible foreign currency.
  

Bajhang District:

• Areas of Kanda, Saipal, Dhuli: F or the first 7 days per person US $90 and After 7 days per day per person US $15 Or equivalent convertible foreign currency.
  

Darchula District:

• Areas of Byas Village Development Committee: For the first 7 days per person US $90 and After 7 days per day per person US$15 or equivalent convertible foreign currency.