Cultural Tour in Nepal.

Kathmandu.
Kathmandu is situated in a bowl shaped valley in central Nepal. The Kingdom extends about 885 km. east to west and 193 km. in width north to south. The entire terrain is like a steep incline, descending from the icy Himalayan Expedition_Regulation heights to the hot Terai flatland within a short distanc.
Historial Background:
The city of Kathmandu was built by king Gun Kamdev in 723 A.D. It is said that Kathmandu was a lake in the past and was made habitable by Manjushree, who cut open the hill to south Chovar) as to allow the water of lake to flow out.
It is said that Kathmandu city was named after "Kastha-Mandap" meaning the temple made of wood in Sanskrit , an imposing pagoda near Hanuman Dhoka Palace. It was built in 1596 out of a single tree by King Laxmi Narashingha Malla.
Kathmandu is the capital of the kingdom, situated in a valley which is an open air museum of famous sites, ancient temples and shrines, golden pagodas and are inspiring deities, is a city of inexhaustible historic artistic and cultural interest. Several beautiful and interesting villages and towns surrounding the valley offer ideal destinations for mini treks. The dazzling Himalayan peaks are visible from several points on the mountains around the valley.
The capital is quite up to date in terms of comfort and convenience boasting luxury hotels, bars, restaurants, shops and casinos. Transportation is convenient and inexpensive. Medical service is quite good. Shoppers may purchase unusual gifts and souvenirs from an interesting assortment of items such as handicrafts, carpets, wooden art works, bronze casting and metal work, thankas, Nepali paper prints and readymade garments. Places to see Kathmandu Durbar Square * Swoyambhu Nath Stupa * Boudha Nath Stupa * Pasupatinath Temple * Budhanilkantha
Patan/Lalitpur
The ancient city of Patan, lying 5 km southeast of Kathmandu, is known as the city of fine arts. The city is full of Hindu temples and Buddhist monuments.The diversity of the medieval culture that allowed both Hinduism and Buddhism to flourish has left a rich legacy of impressive sightseeing in this city for today's visitors.
Historical Background:
Lalitpur (Patan) said to have been founded by King Veer Deva in 299 A.D. has many old names such as Yala, Yupagram, Lalitpatan, and Maningal. Several historical records plus many other legends, also indicate that Patan is the oldest of all three cities of Kathmandu Valley. Patan was founded by Kirab rulers long before the Lichhavi rulers came into the political scene in Kathmandu Valley. It must be remembered here that one of the most used and typical Newari name of Patan is Yala. It is said that King Yalamber named this city after himself and ever since then this ancient city was known as Yala.
Old Patan developed along two intersecting axes, which extended out to the four Ashokan stupas. The northern route, now pedestrianized, takes in Patan's Durbar Square and also the famed Golden and Kumbeshwar temples. Patan's western axis serves as the main way into town from Kathmandu. The busy southern road runs past the Machhendranath Mandir and the Lagankhel bus park, while the eastern road skirts the temple of Mahabuddha. The 'fibetan crafts centre of Jaulakhel is located at the southwestern edge of the city.
Getting to Patan has become a bit more civilized and less polluting since the introduction of the battery-powered Safaa Tempo ("Clean Tempo") service. the white three-wheelers run from Kathmandu's northern suburbs to Patan's Mangal Bazaar via the City Bus Park and Martyrs' Gate.
By bike, it shouldn't take more than half an hour. Coming over the main bridge from Kathmandu, you can enter the city via the Western Stupa or more directly via Patan Dhoka. Our private transfer will take about 15-20 minutes drive from your hotel to Patan.
Places to Visit:
Durbar Square * Krishna Mandir * Mahaboudha * Hiranya Verna Mahavihar * Kumbheshwor Jagatnarayan Temple * Rudra Varna Mahavihar * The Ashokan Stupas * Acchheswor Mahavihar Temple of Machhendranath and Minnath * The Zoo * Patan Industrial Estate * Bajra Barahi Godavari * Phulchowki
Bhaktapur- an ancient City
Situated at an altitude of 1,401 m, Bhaktapur covers an area of four square miles. Bhaktapur or "the City of Devotees" still retains the medieval charm and visitors to this ancient town are treated with myriad wonders of cultural and artistic achievements. The past glory of the Malla rulers continues to be reflected at the Durbar Square. Pottery and weaving are its traditional industries. The city lies about 14 km east of Kathmandu.
Historical Background:
The oldest part of the town is around Tachupal Tole (the Dattatraya Square), to the east. Bhaktapur was the capital city of the whole valley during the 14th to 16th centuries and during that time the focus of the town-shifted west, the Durbar Square area. Much of the town’s great architecture dates from the end of the 17th century during the rule of King Bhupatindra Malla. On Yaksha Malla’s death, the kingdom after a period of joint rule among his sons eventually became divided into three small kingdoms, Bhaktapur, Kathmandu and Patan.
Bhaktapur drapes across an east-west fold in the valley, its southern fringe sliding down towards the sluggish Hanumante River. Owing to a long-term westward drift, the city has two centres (residents of the two halves stage a boisterous tug- of-war during the city's annual Bisket festival} and three main squares. In the west, Durbar Square and Taumadhi Tol dominate the post-fifteenth-century city, while Tachapal Tol presides over the older east end.

You'll arrive by one of two routes. Our Private car/coach or local buses that leaves from Old Bus park Kathmandu every 10 minutes drops you on the main road about ten minutes' walk south of town. Arriving by minibus from the City Bus Park, you'11 be deposited near Sidha Pokhri, a five-minute walk west of Durbar Square. Local buses from Nagarkot terminate at Kamal Binayak, five minutes northeast of Tachapal; tourist buses from Nagarkot continue to the main intersection just north of Durbar Square.
Bhaktapur has no rikshaws and just a few resident taxis, but it's compact enough to be explored on foot one-speed bikes can be rented along the road east of minibus park (west of Durbar Square).
Places to see
Durbar Square * Taumadhi Square * The Nyatapola Temple * Dattatraya Square * Pottery Square
Dhulikhel
DHULIKHEL is justly famous as a well-preserved Newar town, mountain viewpoint, and hiking and biking hub, but its popularity is waning as road-building and modernization take their toll. Located 5km east of Banepa, just beyond the Kathmandu Valley rim, it sits in a saddle at the relatively low elevation of 1550m, which makes it warmer than Nagarkot. A number of resort hotels and guest houses are positioned along the highway to catch the best mountain views in the immediate vicinity, but the full vista can only be seen from a small summit above the town. Most visitors to Dhulikhel stay at least two nights, which allows time for a wander around the old town, a sunrise walk and a full-day circuit of the surrounding countryside and the cultural sites of Namobuddha and Panauti.
Unfortunately, the increasingly busy Arniko Highway passes just north of Dhulikhel and creates a less than idyllic barrier between most lodgings and the old town. On top of that, a major new highway to Sindhulimadi and the eastern Tarai is being built along the town's western and southern flanks. Donated by Japan, it's supposed to relieve pressure on the Prithvi (Pokhara) Highway by providing a second route into and out of the Kathmandu Valley, and its completion will turn Dhulikhel into one of Nepal's principal transport junctions, with all the revving and tooting that that entails. Meanwhile, a flurry of secondary road-building in the area has taken a lot of the pleasure out of the standard Namobuddha-Panauti itinerary, although the destinations themselves remain as worthy as ever. Looking on the bright side, the new roads make possible more and still largely untested mountain-biking possibilities.
Dhulikhel is less well-served by tourist buses than is Nagarkot. Local buses (every half-hour from Kathmandu's City Bus Park or from Bhaktapur's trolley bus stop; Rs15) are exasperatingly slow. You can ask to be dropped off at any of the hotels along the highway, but for most of the cheap lodgings you'll want to stay on until the small bus park. On a bike, it's better to come one of the back ways - via Lubhu-Panauti, Bhaktapur-Nala or Nagarkot-Nala.
Nagarkot
Nagarkot, located 32 kilometers east of Kathmandu, is one of the most scenic spots in Bhaktapur district and is renowned for its spectacular sunrise view of the Himalaya when the weather is clear. Visitors often travel to Nagarkot from Kathmandu to spend the night so that they can be there for the breathtaking sunrise. Nagarkot has become famous as one of the best spots to view Mount Everest as well as other snow-topped peaks of the Himalayan range of eastern Nepal. It also offers an excellent view of the Indrawati river valley to the east. With an elevation of 2,195 meters, Nagarkot also offers a panoramic view of the Valley and is described by visitors as a place whose beauty endures year round.
Many visitors prefer to visit Nagarkot in the spring when surrounding valleys break out in a rich kaleidoscope of different coloured flowers. The flowers are beautiful against the serene backdrop of the snow-covered mountains. Ever popular among the tourists are the short treks and picnics which Nagarkot offers. Treks from Nagarkot are unique and delightful. For anyone who wants to have an adventure without exerting much effort, a hike to Nagarkot's surrounding areas would be a good option. One can traverse short distances on trekking trails and come close to nature's wonders such as the outer of verdant forests, flower-covered meadows and unusual rock formations.
Chitwan
For a country known for its beautiful mountains, the Gangetic flat lands of the Terai that stretches through out the southern part of Nepal provide a wholly different experience. A visit to Nepal remains incomplete without seeing the beauty of the Terai.

And Chitwan is the best place to do so. The Royal Chitwan National Park, established in 1973, provides a great wildlife experience with its rich flora and fauna. The wildlife and the landscape are not as breathtaking as those found in Africa but still, the experience will stand out.
Chitwan is only 150m above the sea level. The place gets steamy from March-June, with peak temperatures reaching 43°C in the shade. Short grass makes Feb-May the best game-viewing season, but the autumn months are gorgeous, with Himalayan views, and in winter (December-January), Chitwan is pleasantly warmed compared to Kathmandu. The monsoon season (July-August) is intense, with pounding rain, swollen rivers, and luxuriant vegetation. While the rain isn't constant, the humidity is all pervasive.
Places Of Interest
Though one can visit neighboring Tharu villages in Chitwan, the major interesting focus of Chitwan is still the exploration of the Chitwan National Park.
Flora and Fauna
The flora and fauna of Chitwan make it a great place for nature lovers. Chitwan has over 50 different species of mammals, 400 different species of birds, and 65 different types of butterflies in its hardwood Sal forests, riverine vegetation, and "elephant grass" savannah. More than 70 different species of grass grow here.
The most famous wildlife in Chitwan is perhaps the single-horned Asian rhinoceros. A few decades ago, their number had fallen to less than 100, but recent count puts them at 400. These animals have thick armor like hide that is hard to penetrate even with a bullet.
A fully grown animal can be as tall as 180cm. In spite of army protection for these animals and severe punishment for harming them, rhino poaching is still a problem as every organ of the animal carries some (probably superstitious) value. The horn fetches about US$10,000 per kilo and is believed to be an aphrodisiac. The dung can be a laxative; the urine cures tuberculosis and asthma. The blood can help cure menstrual problems. The hide keeps away evil spirits. And so on.
Chitwan has about 150 Bengal tigers left of the one time 3000 or so. Though poaching is a serious threat, the real threat for these majestic animals is the gradual loss of its habitat. A male tiger requires almost 60km space, and a female one requires a third of it. Chitwan is simply not big enough to handle many tigers. It is rare for one to actually see a tiger, though looking for one is an interesting part of the trip.
Other wild mammals one may see are leopards, various types of deer, monkeys, sloth bear, and antelope.
lumbini- The Birth Place of Buddha
Lumbini - a place in the South-Western Terai of Nepal, evokes a kind of holy sentiment to the millions of Buddhists all over the world-as do the Jerusalem to Christians and Mecca to Muslims. Lumbini is the place Lord Buddha -the apostle of peace and the light of Asia was born in 623 B. C., Located in the flat plains of south-Western Nepal and the foothills of Churia range, Lumbini and its surrounding area is endowed with a rich natural setting of domesticable fauna and favourable agricultural environ. Historically, the region is an exquisite treasure-trove of ancient ruisn and antiquities, dating back to pre-Christian era. The site, described as a beautiful garden in the Buddha’s time still retains its legendary charm and beauty. To the mere 12 miles north of Lumbini lies the dense and picturesque sal-grove.
For centuries, Buddhists- all over the world, knew that Lumbini where the Lord was born is somewhere around. The descriptions of famous Chinese pilgrims (of ancient times) Huian Tsang and Faeihan indicated to this area-saying ‘Lumbini-where the lord was born is a piece of heaven on earth and one could see the snowy mountains amidst a splendid garden-embedded with stupas and monasteries!
Places to Visit inside Lumbini Garden
The Ashoka Pillar * Puskarni-the sacred pool * Sanctum-Sanctorum of the Birthplace
* Image of Maya Devi * The Buddhist Temple
Places around Lumbini
Kapilvastu * Tilaurakot * Gotihawa * Kudan * Niglihawa * Lumbini Development Project
Gorkha
Gorkha is a scenic hill- town with great historical significance.
King Prithvi Narayan Shah, who unified the kingdom of Nepal during eighteenth century, was born in the township of Gorkha. Situated on a small hillock at an attitude of about 1000 m, Gorkha offers panoramic view of snow-fed mountain.
Then the small kingdom of Gorkha, founded by king Drabya Shah in 1560 A. D. became famous during the dynasty of Ram Shah (1604-1641 A.D.), who earned the reputation of being just to his people. There was a famous proverb in those days which said that one should go to Gorkha if he were looking for justice.
In the middle of eighteenth century there were hundreds of small kingdoms and principalities in what is today's Nepal. The great Prithvi Narayan Shah took the mammoth task of unifying Nepal in the eighteenth century. The Gorkha soldiers under his dynamic leadership eventually succeeded in conquering the Kathmandu valley. The capital of greater Nepal was shifted to Kathmandu since then. But this beautiful township has always remained as the center of attraction for many Nepalese as well as foreign visitors.
Places to Visit
Gorkha Durbar * Gorkha Bazaar * Gorakhnath Cave * Manakamana
Pokhara-The city of Lakes
If Kathmandu is the cultural hub of Nepal, Pokhara is its center of adventure. An enchanting city nestled in a tranquil valley; it is the starting point for many of Nepal's most popular trekking and rafting destinations. The atmosphere on the Shore of Phewa Lake is one of excited vitality as hipster backpackers crowd the many bars and restaurants exchanging recommendations on guest houses and viewpoints, both by the lake and above the clouds.
Pokhara is a place of remarkable natural beauty. The serenity of Phewa Lake and the magnificence of the fish-tailed summit of Machhapuchhre (6,977 m) rising behind it create an ambience of peace and magic. At an elevation lower than Kathmandu, it has a much more tropical feel to it, a fact well appreciated by the beautiful diversity of flowers which prosper in its environs. Indeed, the valley surrounding Pokhara is home to thick forests, gushing rivers, emerald lakes, and of course, the world famous views of the Himalaya.
Pokhara is part of a once vibrant trade route extending between India and Tibet. To this day, mule trains can be seen camped on the out-skirts of the town, bringing goods to trade from remote regions of the Himalaya. This is the land of the Magars and Gurungs, hardworking farmers and valorous warriors who have earned worldwide fame as Gurkha soldiers. The Thakalis, another important ethnic group here, are known for their entrepreneurship.
Pokhara is located roughly 200 km west of Kathmandu.
The journey between these two famed cities is certainly part of the Pokhara experience. Flying over the snow-capped Himalaya to the north and green Mahabharat range to the south is thrilling, while the overland journey past sparse rural settlements nested along the Trisuli River provides a view of life particular to Nepal's middle hills.
There are daily several flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Places to see
Mountain Views * Phewa Lake * Barahi Temple * Seti River * Devi's Fall * Mahendra Cave * The Old Bazaar * The Pokhara Museum * The Annapurna Regional Museum
Janakpur
Janakpur , 165km east of Birgunj, is indisputably the Tarai's most fascinating city. Also known as Janakpurdham (dham denoting a sacred place), it's a holy site of the first order, and its central temple, the ornate Janaki Mandir, is an obligatory stop on the Hindu pilgrimage circuit.

Although Indian in every respect except politically, the city is, by Indian standards, small and manageable: motorized traffic is all but banned from the centre, tourist hustle is largely absent, the poverty isn't oppressive, and the surrounding countryside is delightful. To top it all, Janakpur's railway, the only one still operating in Nepal, makes an entertaining excursion in itself. There's so much going on, both in and around Janakpur, that it's worth setting aside a few days to absorb it all - though bear in mind that there are no tourist-style lodgings, restaurants or other facilities.
Hindu mythology identifies Janakpur as the capital of the ancient kingdom of Mithila, which controlled a large part of northern India between the tenth and third centuries BC. The city features prominently in the Ramayan, for it was in Janakpur that Ram - the god Vishnu in mortal form - wed Sita , daughter of the Mithila King Janak. Recounting the divine couple's later separation and heroic reunion, the Ramayan holds Ram and Sita up as models of the virtuous husband and chaste wife; in Janakpur, where the two command almost cult status, the chant of "Sita Ram, Sita Ram" is repeated like a Hindu Hail Mary, and sadhus commonly wear the tuning-fork-shaped tika of Vishnu. Mithila came under the control of the Mauryan empire around the third century BC, then languished for two millennia until Guru Ramananda, the seventeenth-century founder of the sect of Sita that dominates Janakpur, revived the city as a major religious centre.
Despite the absence of ancient monuments to confirm its mythic past - no building is much more than a century old - Janakpur remains a strangely attractive city. Religious fervour seems to lend an aura to everything; the skyline leaves a lasting impression of palm trees and the onion domes and pyramid roofs of local shrines. Most of these distinctively shaped buildings are associated with kuti - self-contained pilgrimage centres and hostels for sadhus - some five hundred of which are scattered throughout the Janakpur area. Janakpur's other distinguishing feature is its dozens of sacred ponds ( sagar or sar), which here take the place of river ghats for ritual bathing and dhobi -ing. Clearly man-made, the roughly rectangular tanks might, as locals claim, go back to Ram's day, although it's more likely that they've been dredged over the centuries by wealthy merit-seekers.
Janakpur is a long haul from Kathmandu - eleven hours by bus- and only a couple of services ply the route during the daytime. The rest are night buses. The new Dhulikhel-Sindhuli Highway (completion in 2001 or 2002) is expected to bring the travel time down to eight or nine hours, making Janakpur a lot more accessible. In the meantime, your only other options are to break the journey in Hetauda or Birganj (the latter is better for getting a seat on to Janakpur) or fly. Necon Air and Royal Nepal both fly from Kathmandu to Janakpur ($55), Necon's service being the more reliable.
Festivals
At any time of year, Janakpur's atmosphere is charged with an intense devotional zeal. New shrines are forever being inaugurated and idols installed, while kuti loudspeakers broadcast religious discourses and the mesmerizing drone of bhajan. Pilgrimage is a year-round industry, marked by several highlights in the festival calendar:
Parikrama As many as 100,000 people join the annual one-day circumambulation of the city on the day of the full moon of February-March, many performing prostrations along the entire eight-kilometre route. The pilgrimage coincides with the festival of Holi, when coloured water is thrown everywhere and on everyone.
Ram Navami Ram's birthday, celebrated on the ninth day after the full moon of March-April, attracts thousands of sadhus, who receive free room and board at the city's temples.
Chhath Women bathe in Janakpur's ponds and line them with elaborate offerings to the sun god Surya at dawn on the third day of Diwali (Tihaar). Women in the villages surrounding Janakpur paint murals on the walls of their houses.
Biwaha Panchami The culmination of this five-day event - Janakpur's most important festival - is a re-enactment of Ram and Sita's wedding at the Janaki Mandir, which draws hundreds of thousands of pilgrims on the fifth day after the new moon of November-December.
Daman
Daman has some of the most fantastic views of the Himalaya. It has a great view of the mountains from Dhaulagiri to Mt Everest. Daman is halfwaay between Kathmandu and Hetauda. It is definitely a worth visiting.
Daman is situated 80 kilometers south- west of Kathmandu at an altitude of about 2400 meters. Daman is located on the Tribhuvan Highway in between Kathmandu and the town to Birgunj. For the view of the Breath taking grandeur of the world's highest peaks extending in one glittering are from far-east of Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) there is no better place than Daman. There is a view tower fitted with long range telescopes. Daman can be reached in four hours from Kathmandu because of mountain highway. However it is worth visiting the area after watching the landscape of the Himalayas with having luxurious accommodation and cuisine of International standard there if one wishes to stay overnight.
Accomodation:
Several hotels, resorts and tea houses are available to stay and enjoy the delicious cuisine.
Travel to Daman:
Daman by car is about three hours from Kathmandu and four hours from Hetauda. It makes a nice day trip from Kathmandu to come here by car for the day.
Namche Bazaar
Namche Bazaar is a village in the Khumbu region of Nepal. Namche is located at 3,440 metres (11,286 ft.) (the low point that is), populating the sides of a hill. From the bridge over the Dudh Kosi, the trail winds its way up a "big" hill, finally cresting at a small building which also serves as an army/police check point.
Almost everyone trekking in the Khumbu region will visit Namche Bazaar, as it is the gateway to the high Himalayas. Visitors are likely stay at least one night, if not two for altitude acclimatization. The village has many shops and lodges where one can find almost anything required for trekking (no camera repair shops), although prices are higher than in Kathmandu. However, the higher you go up into the Khumbu, the more expensive everything gets so by the time you reach Lobuche (4,930m/16,175'), the prices in Namche will seem quite reasonable.
Above Namche BazaarNamche is the administrative center for the Khumbu region so there are many Nepalese officials, a police check post and a bank. Near the top of the village is the headquarters for Sagarmatha National Park as well as Nepalese army barracks.
Immediately west of Namche is Kongde Ri at 6,187 metres (20,298 ft.) and to the east is Thamserku at 6,608 metres (21,680 ft.).
On a hill overlooking Namche Bazaar is the Shyangboche Airstrip (3,750m / 12,303ft). This is not generally used as it's surface is made of loose pebbles and therefore unsuitable for fixed wing aircraft, but it enables visitors to reach Namche Bazaar by air.
Many trekkers get up before sunrise and walk up to the Sagarmatha National Park Headquarters to take in the impressive views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Thamserku, Ama Dablam (6,856m/22,493') and other magnificent peaks (though these can only be seen on a clear day) and visit the museum. Pictures of peaks to the west from this vantage point such as Kongde Ri, cannot be taken as the army barracks are between you and these mountains. The army does not permit pictures to be taken of the barracks. Because of the proximity of the army barracks, the Sagarmatha National Park Headquarters is surrounded by a large amount of barbed wire.
A good acclimatisation walk from Namche Bazaar goes to Everest View Hotel, which it at altitude of 3,800m / 12,467ft. As the name suggests, the hotel gives good views of Everest (when it is not enveloped in cloud) and this is generally considered the best view in the surrounding area. Everest View Hotel is a luxury hotel, which has had mixed success. Although the rooms are oxygenated, many guests have become sick. The hotel does however have the only decent restaurant, serving western food, in the region.
Namche Bazaar has two internet cafés, making it the only place in the region where trekkers can access the internet. Both internet cafés connect via satellites and so the resulting connection speed is slow.
The village also contains a German bakery, well known in the region for providing good quality western food, including pizza.
Gosiankunda
One of Nepal's most famous religious places of pilgrimage is Gosainkunda lake situated at an altitude of about 4360m. Surrounded by high mountains on the north and east, this lake is grand and picturesque. There are other nine famous lakes such as Saraswati, Bhairav, Sourya and Ganesh Kunda. Every year during Janai Purnima in August, thousands of Hindu pilgrims come here to lake holy bathe in the lake. The large rock in the center of the lake is said to be the remains of a Shiva shrine and it is also claimed that channel carries water from the lake directly to the tank at the Kumbheshwar Temple in Patan, 60 km to the south.
Access:
The best approach to Gosainkunda is through Dhunche, 132 kilometers north-east of Kathmandu. Dhunche is linked with Kathmandu by a motorable road. The trekking to Gosainkunda from Dhunche takes two days.
Accommodation: Several tea-houses and tourist inns offer lodging and meals.
Helambu
Nestled at the foot of these Himalayan ranges is a beautiful, secluded, valley filled with nature is bounty of the Langtang National Park. Here the rare red pandas lurk in dense lichen-draped rhododendron Transfer interrupted!
The alpine meadows and lammergeiers glide over glaciated valleys amidst scenery of lofty Himalayan peaks. From Kyanjin Gompa we will have a chance to climb a ridge on Yala Peak, or hike to the foot of Langshisa glacier, for an incredible view of glaciers, icefalls and snowfields surrounded on all sides by high mountains. The Helambu villages, over the holy Gosainkunda lakes and Laurebenayak pass, are the home of the Sherpas of Nepal. Their slate and single-roofed villages, that dot the terraced hillsides, present very fine trekking. The region of Langtang and Helambu although easily approached from Kathmandu is far less trekked than the Annapurna or Everest areas making it all the more attractive. It is a wonderful walk through a naturalist's trail, moderate to rigorous trekking and lodging between 2003m and 4,380m with one pass crossing of 4,610m.
Namo Buddha
Better know by Tibetans as Tag-mo Lu-jin. This means the place where the Buddha offered his body to the hungry mother tigress. It is renowned for Shakyamuni's act of compassion upon encountering a hungry mother tigress he offered her his body so that she could feed her cubs. There are a couple monasteries and one ancient stupa erected nearby in which one can make offerings, pray, and light butter lamps. This sight can be reached in a couple hours by jeep or for those who prefer a half-day hike it gives beautiful views of the local villages and lush scenery.

National Parks, Conservation Areas and Wildlife Reserves of Nepal and their adventurous activities..

National Parks, Conservation Areas and Wildlife Reserves of Nepal
The geography of Nepal can be divided into high mountains, mid hills and low lands. A wide range of ecosystem from sub-tropical jungles of the Terai to the arctic conditions of Himalayan highlands are found within an area of 147,181 square kilometers.

There are a total of 9 National parks, 3 wildlife Reserves, 3 Conservation Areas, 1 Hunting Reserve including 9 Buffer zones around national parks, covering a total of 28,585.67 km2 (19.42%) of the country’s total land. Nepal’s rich bio-diversity renders it ideal as an eco-tourism destination.

Khapad National Park (225 sq km)
Khaptad National Park in West Nepal is the home of Khaptad Swami, the renowned scholar and a hermit. The park with rolling hills of grasslands and forests of subtropical, temperate and sub alpine vegetation is also a rich natural habitat. The park boasts of 224 species of medicinal herbs and offers excellent bird watching opportunities, with 270 species of birds, the common ones being different varieties of Impheyan Pheasant, partridges, plycatchers, bulbuls, cuckoos and eagles. Animals in the park are barking deer, wild boar, ghoral, Himalayan black bear, yellow-throated marten, rhesus monkey and langur monkey. The Park also offers religious sightseeing at Tribeni on the way to its headquarters. There are several historical temples surrounding this area and an annual celebration of Ganga Dashhara is held here every Jestha Purnima. Another religious site is Sahara Linga at 3,200 meters, the highest point of the park. Other religious areas in the park include Ganesh Temple, Nagdhunga, and Kedardhunga. These areas are ideal places for meditation. Towards the northeast of the park is Khaptad Lake where a festival is held every august and September.

Activities: Trekking

Accommodation: Camping

Access: Fly to Dipayal from Nepalgung and then a three-day walk.

Best Season: Mar-May & Oct-Nov (10-20 degrees Celsius); Jun-Sep (rainy), Dec-Feb (snow)

Park Headquarter: Khaptad

Langtang National park (1,710 sq km)
The park extends over parts of Nuwakot, Rasuwa and Sindhupalchowk districts in the mountainous terrain of Nepal-China (Tibet) border.

Ther chief attraction of this park is the Langtang range in the north and several lakes in the south. High altitude jungles with diverse vegetation and wildlife, scenic lakes, glaciers and Himalayan peaks combine to make Langtang an attractive destination for visitors. Twenty five percent of the park’s total area is covered by forest, starting at sub-tropical forests below 1,000 meters giving way to alpine scrubs and grasslands toward higher altitude. Animals seen here are wild dog, red panda, pika, muntjac, musk deer, Himalayan black bear, Himalayan Thar, Ghoral, serow rhesus monkey, common langur, snow leopard among others. Common birds seen here are tragopan impeyan and pheasants (kalij). The Langtang Valley is also renowned for its holy Lake Gosainkunda. Thousands of Hindu pilgrims visit the lake area every year, especially during the Janai Purnima festival every August.

Activities: Trekking, mountaineering

Accommodation: Lodges, camping

Access: From Dhunche which is 117 km by road from Kathmandu

Best Season: Oct-Nov & Mar-May (Cold at higher elevation); Jun-Sep (monsoon), Dec-feb (Snow)

Park Headquarter: Dhunche

Makalu- Barun National park (2,330 sq km)
The park spreads over the districts of Sankhuwasabha and Solukhumbu in northeast Nepal. One of the prime attractions for visitors to the park is experience the unique Himalayan bio diversity. The vegetation range from sub tropical forests to sub alpine and alpine as the altitude increases. The park boasts of 47 species of orchids, 67 species of medicinal herbs, 25 of Nepal’s 30 varieties of rhododendron, 19 bamboo species, 15 oak species, 48 species of primrose and 86 species of fodder trees. The park also offers bird-watching opportunities with its 400 species of birds, including the rare spotted wren babbler and the olive ground warbler. Wildlife include the endangered red panda, snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, clouded leopard tops, ghoral, tahr, wild boar, barking deer, Himalayan marmot, weasel, langur monkey and serow. River Arun that flows through the park has 84 varieties of fish including salmon.

Activities: Trekking, mountaineering

Accommodation: Camping

Access: Fly to Tumlingtar from Kathmandu (1 hr) and then a six-day walk

Best Season: Oct-Nov and Mar-Apr; Apr-May (hot at lower elevations), Jun-Sep (monsoon) Park headquarter: Seduwa, Tel: 029-560136

Rara National Park (106 sq km)
fish recorded so far Rara National Park in the far northwestern part of the country offers a representative sample of the region’s flora and fauna. Sprawled over Mugu and Jumla districts the heart of the park is the country’s biggest lake, Lake Rara, from where the park gets its name.

The lake is as deep as 167 meters at some places, and drains into the river Mugu Karnali via Naijar khola. The park is mainly covered with coniferous forest while the area around the lake is dominated by blue pine, rhododendron, juniper, spruce, oak and cypress and found around 3,000 meters while at higher altitude pine, spruce and fir are more common.

The rich vegetation of the park is a home to the endangered red panda, musk deer, Himalayan black beer, leopard, jackal, Himalayan Thar, wild yellow-throated martin, wild dog, wild boar, common langur, rhesus macaque and common otter. During winter the park abounds in bird varieties like coots, great-crested grebe, black-necked grebe, red crested pochard, mallard, common teal, merganser and gulls. Migrant water fowl and gallinaceous birds can also be seen during certain seasons.

As for water life in the lake, the snow trout is the only.

Activities: Trekking

Access: Fly to Jumla from KTM via Nepalgunj and then 3 day walk, or by bus from Nepalgunj to surkhet(114km) and then a wee
Accommodation: Camping
k’s walk

Best Season: Feb-Apr and Oct-Nov

Park headquarter: Hutu

Chitwan National Park (932 sq km)
Owing to its rich adornment of nature, Chitwan National Park was declared UNESCO Nature Heritage Site in 1979. The park that includes in its area a part of the Shivalik Hills, is covered with deciduous forests overlooking the floodplains of Narayani, Rapti and Reu rivers and offering a wilderness of rich ecosystem that includes mammals, birds, reptiles and water animals of several kinds.

There are around 600 plants, 50 mammals, 526 birds and 49 amphibians reptiles spices found in the park The highlights, of course, are the 500 Asian one-horned rhinoceros and some 100nocturnal Royal Bengal tigers that live in the dense forests of the park. Sharing home with these are other animals like rhesus monkey, grey langur, deer, leopards, white stockinged gaur, wild boar, wild dogs and wild cats. Among reptiles are different kinds of snakes including the python, while the river areas breed amphibians like the endangered snouted gharial popularly known as Gangetic Crocodile and Marsh Crocodiles.

The forest is alive during summer with the arrival of migrant birds’ paradise flycatcher, Indian pitta and parakeets, while winter birds include waterfowl, Brahminy ducks, pintails, bar-headed gees, cormorants and migratory birds form Siberia. Other bird varieties are woodpeckers, hornbills, peacocks, peahens, floricans and redheaded trogons. A rare attraction of the park is the world’s fresh water dolphin variety sometimes seen in River Narayani.

Another factor adding a distinct touch to the Chitwan experience is the colorful Tharu culture. There are also sites of religious and historical importance at Devghat, Pandavnagar, Balmiki Ashram and Kabilaspur.

Activities: Jungle safari on elephant-back, jungle walk, canoe ride, jeep drive

Accommodation: Resort hotels and lodges

Access: The park headquarters at Kasara is a 21 km from Bharatpur which is 20 minutes by air or 146 km by road from Kathmandu

Best Season: Oct-Feb(average temperature 25 degrees Celsius); Mar-Jun(hot, up to 43 degrees Celsius), Jul-Sep (rainy)

Park headquarter: Kasara, Tel: 056-529405

Sagarmatha National park (1,148 sq km)


Park Headquarter: Mandalphu, Namche Bazaar, Tel: 038-626043
The prime attraction in the Sagarmatha National Park is Mt. Everest, the highest peak of the world. The park was added to the list of World Heritage Site in 1979. The park, a part of the Himalayan ecological zone, has several other prominent peaks most of which are above 6,000 meters.

With most of the park above 3,000 meters, Sagarmatha is full of rugged terrain with deep gorges glaciers and huge rocks. With its Himalayan terrain and its unique culture, the park offers a blend of natural and cultural tourist products here.

The vegetation at lower elevation is dominated by pine and hemlock forests, while above 3,500 meters the forest is dominated with silver fir, birch, rhododendron, and juniper trees. During spring and monsoon the varieties of rhododendron flowers are seen.

The common wildlife in the park are Himalayan Tahr, Ghoral Musk Deer, Pikka (mouse hare), weasel, jackal etc. Other rarely seen animals are Himalayan black bear, wolf lynx, and snow leopard. Beirs inhabiting the park are of over 118 species.Common ones among them are impeyan pheasant (Danphe), blood pheasant, red billed cough, yellow-billed cough, snow cock, snow pigeon, Himalayan griffon, and lammergeryer.

The national park also showcases the cultural trophies with the warm Sherpa hospitality and its many monasteries and cultural landmarks.

Activities: Trekking, Mountaineering

Accommodation: Resort hotels, lodges, camping

Access: Two-day walk form Lukla which is 30 minutes by air from Kathmandu

Best Season: Oct-Nov and Mar-May; Dec-Feb (snow, daytime temperature 5 degree Celsius), Jun-Sep (rainy)

Bardia National Park (968 sq km)
The Bardia National park is the largest and most undisturbed protected area in the Terai and is home to the endangered Royal Bengal tiger and Nepal’s famous one-horned rhinoceros. The national park located in the far western district of Bardiya, is borded by the river Karnali in the west, the Churia range in the north, while the River Babai flows right through the park.

The varied geographical factors together with the thick cover of Sal, savannah forests and grasslands render this region ideal as wild animal habitat. The park hosts 30 different mammals, more than 250 species of birds, and several varieties of reptiles and water animals.

Some of the other animals found where are elephant, swamp deer, blackbuck, gharial crocodile and marsh mugger crocodile. The exotic Gangetic Dolphin is also sometimesseen in river Karnali. Birds include endangered varieties of Bangel florican, lesser florican, silver-eared mesia and sarus crane.

The park offers the rare opportunity of fishing at River Karnali and River Babai.

Activities: Jungle safari on elephant-back, jungle walk, jeep drive

Accommodation: Jungle lodges

Access: Three hours by jeep (95km) form Nepalgunj which is 1hour 10 minute by air or 531 by road from Kathmandu

Best Season: Oct-Mar; Apr-Jun (hot, 45 degrees Celsius), Jul-Sep (rainy)

Park headquarters: Thakurdwara, Tel: 084-429719

Shey-Phoksundo National Park (3,555 sq km)
Shey-Phoksundo National Park is situated in the Trans-Himalayan region of north west of Nepal. It is Nepal’s largest national park.

With diverse terrain and altitude variation, the park spreads over Dolpa and Mugu districts and supports a broad range of wildlife and vegetation. Geographical landmarks of the park are the Himalayn peaks in the north and Lake Phoksundo, in the southern region.

Vegetation include pine, walnut, willow, oak and cypress and the lower altitude & pine, spruce, juniper & birch at higher regions. Berberis, wild rosea and caragana are seen in alpine areas while the regions higher up are mostly arid with grass alpine meadows with barely any trees.

The park contains 286 florea species of botanical importance. Animals found in the region are sheep, ghoral, musk deer, leopard, wild dog, marmot, weasel, mouse hare, rhusus & langur monkeys, Himalayan thar, Himalayan black bear and Jackals.

In the upper reaches is seen the rare snow leopard. Over 200 species of birds including yellow-throated marten, Tibetan partridge, wood snip, white-throated tit, wood accentor, & crimson-eared rose finch are found in the park. Other species of birds found here are Impeyan, cheer pheasant, chough, ravens, Tibetan show cock, Tibetan twit, brown dipper, Himalayan griffon & lammergeyer. Apart from these the park is home to 6 species of reptiles & 29 species of Butterfly.

Activities: Trekking, Mountaineering

Accommodation: Camping

Access: Fly to Dolpa’s Jufal airport from Nepalgunj or Pokhara and then a three-day walk

Best Season: Mar-May (high passes may still covered with snow) and Jun-Sep (clear weather)

Park Headquarter: Sumduwa, Tel: 087-550104

Shivapuri National Park (144 sq km)
shrines that are worth visiting are Budhanilkantha, Sundarimai and the Nagi monastery attract thousands of pilgrims during festive seasons.

Activities: Hiking, rock climbing, bird watching

Access: 11 km to the north of Kathmandu, taxi or bus The Shivapuri National Park (144 sq km) is the major watershed supplying drinking water to the capital city of Kathmandu. Lying in the transition zone between the subtropical and temperate climatic zones, its diverse vegetation is composed of pine, oak, rhododendron and others. The park is rich in wild mushrooms (129 species).

The wildlife found in the national park includes Himalayan black bear, leopard, jungle cat, and rhesus monkeys. The park is home to over 177 species of birds including 9 threatened species, over 100 species of butterflies including rare and threatened. The park has several rain-red rivers that are the major source of drinking water for the capital city. The park produces 227 million liters water per day of which 30 million liters per day are collected for consumption.

Towering over the Kathmandu valley, the Shivapuri National Park is a fog-free zone. During winter while Kathmandu and the other towns and settlements of the valley are still dark under the thick cold fog, the park get sparkling sunlight. It receives regular westerly winds blowing from the Trishuli river valley.

Situated only 12 km to the north of Kathmandu, the park is the main entrance of the trekking routes to Gosainkunda, Helambu, Kagarkot and the Langtang National Park. The major routes include Pani Muhan to Shivapuri peak (2,732 meter above mean sea level), Nagi gumba to the peak, Nagi gumba to Baghdwar, Sundarijal to Chisapani. The breathtaking views of the high Himalayan peaks can be seen from the top of the Shivapuri Mountain.

The park is a spiritually significant for the popular shrines and meditation centers in the natural surroundings. The park consists of several religious and cultural heritage sites for the Hindus as well as Buddhists. They include the peaks of Shivapuri, Manichur, Tarkeswor and the source of the Bagmati and Bishnumati rivers. The other famous

Best Season: Sep-Jun; Jul-Aug (rainy)

Park Headquarter: Shivapuri, Tel: 01-4371644

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve (176 sq km)
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve has carved a place for itself as a birdwatcher’s paradise. The reserve spreads over Saptari and Sunsari districts in East Nepal over the embankments of River Koshi. The reserve has been recognized as Wetland site from 1987. The vegetation of the reserve is mainly grassland with patches of scrub and deciduous reverine forests. The reserve has recorded around 439 species of bird variety, some of which fly all the way from Siberia during winter. A wide variety of ducks, herons, storks, egrets, ibis etc. are seen on the riverbanks. Koshi Tappu Reserve also has one of the few elephant stables of Asia. Other animals found here are wild buffalo, wild boar, hog deer, spotted deer, blue bell and jackal. Gharial Crocodile and Gangetic Dolphin are other attractions.

Activities: Game viewing, bird watching

Accommodation: Resorts & Tented camps

Access: 90- minute drive (40km) from Biratnagar which is 50 minute by air or 541 km by road from Kathmandu.

Best Season: Oct-Mar; Apr-Jun (hot), Jul-sep (rainy)

Reserve Headquarter: Kusaha, Tel: 025-530897

Parsa Wildlife Reserve (499 sq km)
The Parsa Wildlife Reserve spreads over parts of Chitwan, Makawanpur, Parsa and Bara districts. The vegetation is tropical and sub tropical mostly covered with Sal forests, while the hills are covered with chir pine. Khair, sissoo and silk cotton are found along water areas.

The reserve provides good habitat for animals like wild elephant, tiger, leopard, sloth bear, gaur, blue bull and wild dog. Other common animals in the reserve are sambar, chital, hog deer, barking deer, langur monkey, rhesus macaques, striped hyena, rat, palm civet and jungle cat. There are 527 species of birds found in the reserve, one being the endangered great hornbill found in certain parts of the forest.

Other bird species include peafowl, red jungle fowl, flycatchers and woodpeckers. Birds and animals apart the reserve also habitats snakes like king cobra, common cobra, krait, rat snake and python.

Activities: Jungle safari on elephant-back, jungle walk, jeep drive

Access: Fly to Simara from Katmandu (15min.) and then by road to the reserve headquarters (7km), or overland all the way from Kathmandu (150 km via Hetauda)

Best Season: Oct-Mar; Apr-Jun (hot, 30-35 degrees Celsius), Jul-Sep (monsoon)

Reserve headquarter: Adhabar, Tel: 053-521051, 520246

Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve (305 sq km)
Shuklaphanta wildlife Reserve is located in the far-eastern lowland Terai of Nepal. The pristine sub-tropical jungle makes Shuklaphanta Nepal’s second largest wildlife Reserve in Terai.

The open grasslands and numerous waterholes of the park is a vast expanse of plain grasslands and Sal forests, while marsh vegetation is found along rivers and lakes. The park that was originally reserved as a hunting area was later converted to wildlife reserve to protect swamp deer.

The reserve now shelters almost 2,000 swamp deer, around 50 wild elephants and 30 tigers. Other animals found here are spotted deer, blue bulls, barking deer, hog deer, wild boars, leopards, jackals, langurs and rhesus monkeys. Among birds the reserve provides habitat to Sarus Crane Swamp Francolin, Gross Owl, Warblers, Flycatchers and the endangered Bengal Florican. Reptile species include marsh mugger, crocodile, cobra and python.

Activities: Wildlife viewing on elephant-back

Accommodation: Jungle lodges

Access: Fly or Drive to Mahendranagar 695 km from Kathmandu)

Best Season: Feb-Mar (22-25 degrees Celsius); Dec-Jan (cold, foggy), Apr-Jun (hot, upto 42 degrees)

Reserve Headquarter: Majhgaon, Kanchanpur, Tel: 099-521309

Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve (1,325 sq km)
Dhorpatan Hunting reserve is the only area in Nepal whee licened hunting is allowded. The reserve adjoins Myagdi district and Baglung district, just below the dhaulagiri range in West Nepal. The reserve begins at 3,000 meters reaches as high as 7000 meters. Trees like fir, pine, rhododendron, hemlock, oak, juniper and spruce are available in the reserve.

One of the prime attractions for hunters is the blue sheep, which is abundant in the area. Hunters also get pheasants and partridges in viable populations for hunting. Other animals found here are leopard, ghoral, serow, himalayanm tahr, Himalayan black bear, barking deer, wild boar, rhesus macaque langur and mouse hare. Endangered animals in the reserve are musk deer, wolf, red panda, cheer pheasant and danphe.

Activities: Trophy Hunting, Game, Viewing

Accommodation: Camping

Access:Four days’ walk from Baglung which is 72 km from Pokhara by road

Best season: March-April; Oct-Nov; Jul-sept (Monsoon), Dec-Feb (cold, windy, snow)

Reserve Headquarters: Dhorpatan, Tel: 068-5211121


ANNAPURNA CONSERVATION AREA PROJECT – ACAP (7,629 sq km)

The Annapurna Conservation Area is one of the best trekking trails in the world. The area spreads around Kaski, Mustang, Manang and Lamjung districts of Central Nepal. Starting with an altitude of 790 meters, the area reaches as high as 8,091 meters of Mt. Annapurna. Ghandruk is the fist experience and further down is Ghorepani that provides fantastic panoramic view of the Annapurna ranges. Equally eye catching are hills of rhododendron that blossom every spring.

The turning point of the Annapurna Circuit is Jomsom. The trek southeast from Jomsom leads to the scenic Tilicho Lake area at an altitude of 4,919 meters. In the circuit route, is the famous Himdu religious sites Muktinath Temple.

The vegetation in this region includes various species of orchids and rhododendron. Wildlife includes around 100 different kinds of mammals including rare snow leopards and blue sheep. The region also boasts of around 478 species of birds including multi-colored Impheyan, Koklas and blood pheasants. In addition the region is also home to 39 species of reptiles and 22 species of amphibians.

Activities: Trakking, Mountaineering

Accommodation: resort hotels, lodges, camping

Access: From Pokhara which is 202 km by road or 30 minutes by air from Kathmandu

Best season: March-May; Sept.-Nov.

ACPA Headquarter: Hariyo Kharka, Pokhara, Tel: 061-521102, 528202

Kanchanjunga Conservation Area [KCA] (2,035 sq km)

Situated in north-eastern Nepal in the district of Taplejung, the Kanchanjunga Conservation Area is bordered by the Tibet-China in the north, Sikkim-India in the east and Sankhuwa -Sabha district in the west.

The area has alpine grasslands, low river valleys with temperate and sub-tropical forests. Ten species among Nepal’s 20 indigenous gymnosperms and 15 among Nepal’s 28 endemic flowering plants are found in this region. In addition, almost 30 varieties of rhododendron species and 69 varieties of orchids are found here. Wildlife includes endangered snow leopard, Himalayan black bear musk deer red panda, blue sheep and rhesus macaw. About 202 species of different birds including Impheyan pheasant, red-billed blue magpie, shy drongo are found in the area.

Activities: Trekking, mountaineering.

Accommodation: Tea houses, camping.

Access: From Taplejung which can be reached by air from Kathmandu

Best Season: March- May; Sep- Nov

Park headquarter: Lelep, Tel: 024-460081

Manaslu Conservation Area (1,663 sq km)

The Manaslu area in Gorkha district is a classic setting to experience pristine mountain nature and culture. The conservation area starts at 600 meters and is crowned by the eithth highest peak in the workd Mt. Manasly at 8,163 meters. The region is home to 29 species of mammals including snow leopard, musk deer and Himalayan Tahr. There are over 20 species of birds and three species of reptiles and over 200 species of pants.

Activities: Trekking, mountaineering

Accommodation: Camping, lodges

Access: By bus to Dhading (87 km from Kathmandu) or to Besi Sahar (106 km from Pokhara) and then Trekking.

Best Season: March-May; Sep-Nov

Park headquarter: Prok

MOUNTAINEERING

With eight of the highest peaks in the world, Nepal has been the focus of some of the most outstanding achievements in the world of mountaineering. For many decades the dauntless icy peaks have posed as challenge to those who dare. There are some 326 peaks in Nepal open for mountaineering today. Government of Nepal opened around 175 peaks in the last two years to mark the Mount Everest Golden Jubilee Celebrations.

Climbing permit to scale the Nepal Himalayas is issued in all seasons by the Mountaineering Section of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation. Certain official documents are required to seek permission for climbing peaks. Around 121 peaks do not require liaison officer for expedition. Fees or ties depend upon the altitude of the peak starting at US $ 1,000 for peaks below 6,501 meters and rising by US $ 500 for every 500 meters. Climbing gears and equipments can be bought or rented in Kathmandu. Many mountaineering and trekking agencies also offer packages that take care of needs like gear, food, transportation, guide and porter services. They also arrange insurance. Visitors should choose an agency that has good track record.

Nepal Himalaya is known as the rooftop of the world. The Himalayas are the highest mountains in the world. Their scenery is legendary. These mountains have had an air of mystery until recently. Even today, the vast area of the Himalaya is untouched. It has always remained a source of fascination and inspiration for people from all walks of life in the world. Himalaya ("Him" means snow and "Alaya" means abode), the abode of snow and the Gods, extends about 2500 Kilometers. The Brahmaputra (Assam) in the east and Indus river in the west demarcate the length of the Himalaya. It is 300 Kms wide and rises nine kilometers above the sea level.

The Nepal Himalaya is in the centre of the Himalayan range. Eight peaks that exceed 8000 metres including the world's highest peak Mt Everest are the prominent members of Nepal Himalaya. It has a convergence of 1310 magnificent peaks over 6,000 metres. Nepal has become famous through out the world due to these mountains.

It is a very interesting thing to know that there was a sea (the Tethys sea) between Indian Gondwana continent (Indian sub continent and Eurasian continent). Around 70 and 80 million years ago, the Himalaya began to come into existence. It is a peak of each evolution only about 10 to 20 million years back. Therefore, the Himalaya is extremely young and geologically active. According to geologists, mountains are growing at a rate of 15 cm (6 inch) a year as the Indian plate moving northward and forcing under the Eurasian plate. This process (plate tectonics) causes the earthquakes in this region. Geologists say that the collision of continents is squeezing up sedimentary rocks that were once below the sea. The mountains of Himalaya are the result of the collision of continents.

World's Highest Peaks8 out of 10 in Nepal
Mt. Everest (Nepal)
8848m
Mt. K2 ( Pakistan)
8611m
Mt. Kanchenjunga (Nepal)
8586m
Mt. Lhotse (Nepal)
8516m
Mt. Makalu (Nepal)
8463m
Mt. Cho-Yo (Nepal)
8201m
Mt. Dhaulagiri (Nepal)
8167m
Mt. Manaslu (Nepal)
8163m
Mt. Nanga Parbat ( Pakistan)
8126m
Mt. Annapurna (Nepal)
8091m
His Majesty's Government has made the following rules by exercising the power of Section 56 of the Tourism Act, 2035 B.S (1978 A.D)

Regulation Relating To Mountain Tourism In Nepal
The Himalayas are huge mountain range stretching 3,000 km east to west and the Nepal Himalayas is the largest and the highest occupying 800km across, with eight peaks that rise above 8,000m. including the highest Mountain of the world , The Mt. Everest . Ever since the country was first opened to climbers if 1949, Nepal Himalayan has become a great theatre of mountaineering activity and the drama of success and failure have provided impetus to more men to meet the ultimate adventure. It is therefore, through all the ages, Nepal Himalayan had been the center of attractions to the whole world, be it saints, philosophers, researchers or adventures.

Permit to be obtain for Mountaineering:
All mountaineering team, desirous of obtaining a permit in Nepal, shall submit an application in the form as prescribed, to the Ministry of Culture, Tourism & Civil Aviation, Mountaineering Section (Tel:256228,247037,256231;Fax:227281) enclosing therein a recommendation of the concerned government, or of Mountaineering Association (U.I.A.A) or a recommendation of the Embassy of its home country for the kingdom of Nepal, ordinarily four months prior to its proposed mountaineering expedition.

Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) :
There are 18 peaks in the range of 6,500m and below, open for Alpine trekking under Nepal Mountaineering Association. It should be noted that in most cases the climbing of these peaks requires snow and ice climbing experience . Detailed information and application for climbing permits are available from the Association’s office (Tel: 434525, Fax:434578, Kathmandu) or contact your trekking agency in Kathmandu.


Submission of route map for Mountaineering Expedition:
Every mountaineering team, while submitting an application to the Ministry of Culture, Tourism & Civil Aviation, Mountaineering Section for a mountaineering permit, should submit a map, as prescribe which clearly depicts the caravan route and the expedition route.


Payment of Climbing Permit Fee (Royalty):
The leader of the expedition team is required to pay the full amount of climbing permit fee (Royalty) within two months of the date of permission. In case of the failure of the payment of royalty within two months, such permission may be cancelled.
The climbing permit fee (Royalty) must be paid directly in favor of the ministry of Culture, Tourism & Civil Aviation, Mountaineering Section, either by bank draft or bank transfer to Nepal Rashtra Bank, Thapathali, Kathmandu, payable in convertible foreign currency.


Equipment for expedition:
His Majesty's Government may provide the following facilities to any Mountaineering team which has obtained permit for mountaineering expedition:

To import and use temporarily, during the expedition such number of walkie – talkies not exceeding 12 and two sets of wireless having the capacity to communicate between the base camp and the nearest police station or the place where the means of telecommunication is available on the condition that such sets shall be taken back to the home country of the team after the end of the expedition.
Partial exemption of customs duty on the goods and materials imported for the expedition.
Two sets of wireless having the capacity to communicate between the base camp and the capital city Kathmandu, provide the mountaineering team desirous to use such facility shall have to hand over one of the two sets of wireless to the Ministry of Culture, Tourism & Civil Aviation, Mountaineering Section, for its use during the continuation of the expedition.
Filming:
The Ministry of Information & Communication (Tel: 228333; Fax :266400) located in Singha Durbar, must be contacted for queries about filming during the expedition. Permission is required for filming.

Mountaineering Regulation:
The Royalty and the size of the Expedition Team:

More than one team may be permitted to climb Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) by a separate route each in one season.
A Royalty of US$50,000 has been fixed for Sagarmatha for a team consisting of seven members. The team may include 5 more members provided it pays extra US$ 10,000 for each additional member. The royalty includes trekking fee of the team members. The team members will be granted three months visa. Additional, US$ 20,000 will have to be paid by the team willing to scale Mt. Everest by normal south – east ridge route.
In all regions including Khumbu, an expedition team can have up to 7 members for the minimum, and 5 more members for the additional royalty.
The team already permitted to scale Mt. Everest will have to pay US$ 10,000 if it intends to change the accent route. It will have to pay additional US$ 20,000,if it intends to change the ascent route to normal south east ridge route
For peaks other than Mt. Everest, the team will have to pay an additional 25% of the royalty in US$ to change the ascent route.
Expedition team must complete all necessary administrative formalities and procedures in order to send back the garbage of the expedition team to their respective countries, after the completion of the expedition. The Ministry of Tourism & Civil Aviation will take necessary monetary deposit from them, which will be refunded after the dispatch of the garbage from Nepal.
Mountaineering Royalty (in US$)
Classification of PeaksFor the expedition including for each additional up to 7 members member exceeding 7 members in expedition up to a total 12 members in a team Peaks above 8000 meter.

(excluding The Mt. Everest
10,000
1500

Peaks of 7501 – 8000 meter
4,000
500

Peaks of 7001 – 7500 meter
3,000
400

Peaks of 6510 – 7000 meter
2,000
300

Peaks below 6501 meter
15,00
200


The Ministry of Tourism & Civil Aviation, Mountaineering Section , has opened up 133 Himalayan Peaks ranging from peaks above 6,500 meter to the Mount Everest (8,848meter) for foreign or joint expeditions. Likewise, The Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) offers 18 Himalayan Peaks for Alpine trekking