Tourism News & Views from Nepal

Is Nepal Tourism Poised to Restart Soon

As Delta Virus is expected to make inroad in the third wave all eyes are focus in the prospect of 2022.

How feasible is it to restart. Yes it is feasible.

“No matter how much you stress or obsess about the past or future, you can’t change either one. In the present where your power lies”??Gautam Buddha (born 563 B.C)

?This quote is from 563 B.C. It hold true even today. Only question is what we have done at present to change our future. Obviously Covid-19 was not there in his time. We can definitely say it is human made pandemic. So the question is pertinent. I wonder what we have done in the last one year other than to wait out the pandemic to go away and cross our finger to vaccination as earliest as possible.?Now we have vaccination but there are a lot of people out there in the tourism source countries who are refusing to be vaccinated. ?At least that is the news from International media. However very soon the new travel norm would be vaccinated travelers to vaccinated destination

?It has been more than 20 months people all over the world are locked down in their homes several times in a year. All are tired of locked down. Apart from domestic destinations in home countries international travel for tourism have been extremely limited. Some countries have opened their country for tourist, however the result are pretty dismal. The news of resurgence of the virus in the host countries was not good news at all.

?Let us face it; covid -19 is here to stay. The trending news on corona virus is that it has been changing and adapting and becoming deadly. News of delta virus is now making round everywhere. Good news is thanks to vaccination drive it has not been able to make deadly catastrophic damage to human being as that happened in first wave. In case of Nepal there is a forecast by health officials that the delta variant will make third wave in August this year. So far it has not been reported. After July lift up lockdown health officials were concerned that daily cases of infection would rise. Now in 4th week of August it has actually gone down to lower number of cases. Aug 22 report has that in 24 hour new cases - 1702, Recovered - 2248 and death 24; a week before number of new cases was 3200 plus and death was hovering around 35 plus. This indicates vaccination has worked very well.????

In April when second wave hit Nepal it caught people off guard; though there were wide spread news of its making inroad to Nepal from India where the second wave was raging. Health officials and covid-19 management team was not prepared at all. The sudden surged at the end of April 2021 killed many people mostly due to lack of oxygen. The oxygen cylinders were later found scattered in places in discarded and unused condition. Government suddenly realized there is lack of oxygen filling plants in the country too. And doctors, medical professional and hospitals were not prepared for the surge at all. Hence bed shortage in the hospitals created panic situation all over. International help came in time to ward off bigger catastrophic condition. Before April people have almost forgotten about the scare of the first wave that happened last year at the same time. It appeared that corona never happened at all. The hand washing and sanitizer facilities setup by city governments in public places were gone. Many people were without masks. Social distancing protocols are almost forgotten. It was reassuring to think that people are no more scared even though second wave was predicted. Lockdown returned back to keep people home. This remained for two month until 2nd week of July. Now in August after lifting long distance transport and public bus to ply road the surge is beginning. From average 3000 infected cases it has gone up to almost 3400 in two weeks. Again there is talk about another lock down.?

?In Nepal near zero covid -19 deaths reported in February 2021, record number of climbing permit given to the aspirants of Everest spring summit and increased number of recovery and less than half empty hospital beds boosted people’s confidence in overcoming corona infections. That brought hope in tourism revival much earlier than expected. In March this year business and industries, except tourism industry, returned back to almost near normal condition. All indicators had given hope to people involved in tourism to restart their business soon. But it was not to be. Sudden sharp increase of corona virus cases in India, especially in north eastern part of India, spread spontaneously to Nepal; that dashed all hope for 2021.??????

?Vaccinated travel will be normal. Once the borders are opened like any other travel documentation travelers will be required to carry vaccinated document. To ensure the virus is not spread people in the villages and tourism frontline workers will be vaccinated soon. Rapid vaccination of people, if present trend is any guideline, about 50% of the population will be vaccinated by the end of his year. Vaccination testing and delivery at the time of arrival and departure will be in practice until the trend in the spread of the virus becomes near zero.

?The extent of restrictions and fear that we saw in the first wave is now gone. People have had enough. Now they are moving on with their life. They are refusing to be locked down. All are eager to get vaccinated. The resilience in the people will have them cope with the reality. As the time progress people and travelers will be soon accustomed to the new reality.

?Since April last year all entertainment places, shops, small hotels, lodges, eateries and services opened to cater tourists had quickly shut down in Thamel and other places where tourists like to hangout. They still remained shuttered.?Many have moved but there must be many waiting for the day to open again for business. Big hotels, restaurants and tourism establishments were expected to shutter their business at least by second year like in 2000 after Maoist insurgency started. Somehow this did not happen this time. Except Hotel Annapurna all are still standing – they had their own reason to shut to revamp their organization as they had too many employees drawing too high salary and they could not be retired that had become liability.

?The first financial relief package brought by the government salvaged big hotels and domestic airlines as they are too big to fail. The smaller tourism enterprises will be back in business as quickly as they had shut down. They will easily maneuver their positions. Since overseas employment is now half the number to pre Covid-19 the chances of workers in tourism going to Arab countries is very low. That means those who are on retention pay will return back as quickly as tourists started returning back to Nepal. Many of the small business owners and workers though they have adopted new area of occupation but soon they will brush up and return as tourists starts to come back. Nepal tourism has at the moment simply submerged; in effect it has gone into hibernation.

?Like in 70’s tourism revival will start with outdoor activities, like hiking, trekking and climbing.?As confidence grows normal tourism activities will begin to grow gradually. For a while leisure and fun vacations will not be there.?Though pandemic will remain active yet travelers and people will adjust and get accustom to the condition. ?Unlike in the first wave the outlying districts will not have to impose their own restriction as the mountain areas have been less affected by the spreading virus. Most trekking lodges will have far less trekkers; safari camps would be less crowded. So, 2022 would be perfect time to experience what Nepal was like 40 years ago. By end of this year Nepal will be indeed poised to restart its tourism.????

?Bhaktapur Durbar Square????????????????????????????????????????????????????

View of Machhapuchare Peak

Santa Subba - Managing Director of Kailash Himalaya Trek

News in Brief

Covid -19 Vaccination Status in Nepal

According to latest Statistic 32.4% (2,536,534,611) of the world population has received at least one dose of a covid-19 vaccine, and 24.4% (1,899,999,918) is fully vaccinated. ?Nepal vaccinated 19% (5,631,303) of its total population. Fully vaccinated population is 13.4 % (3,835,608) and at least one doze 17.3% (4,935,609) as on 21 Aug, 2021. Only 1.4% of people in low income countries have received at least one dose.?(www.ourworldindata.org/covid-vaccinations)

The new Nepal government formed after reinstatement of the parliament recently published its national priority. In it, it has set goal to get fully vaccination by April 2022. As on Monday 9th August, 2021 population of Nepal is 29,712,650; normally it is referred to 30 million.

Tourists’ arrival figures in 2021

In July tourist arrival is 2991. It is just 4% compared to 2019. Most are from India, and rests are diplomats and non residents Nepalese. ?Land route from south has been closed since last year. In the first three month 32,997 tourist visited Nepal. This is 10% of total arrival (311,047) in 2019. In June during covid-19 travel restriction total number of arrival was 1143. It is 1% (74,883) of total arrival at the same period in 2019.

www.tourism.gov.np (PDF)

Moonsoon rain, flood and landslide causes irreparable loss and damaged in Melamchi and Manang

Malemchi Flood:?Monsoon is in full swing in Nepal. This year it started early in Aug 22. Normally it starts second week of June. It is much earlier than usual. The first heavy rain brought big flood in Malemchi River that swept away large portion of sprawling Malemchi bazaar. All road to villages in Helambu pass through this town. Its importance had grown over time because of the road intersection and water intake point from Malemchi River to Kathmandu at Sundarijal. This project had taken 30 years to meet water scarcity of Kathmandu. It was at the verge of supplying water. The final test was going on. The sudden rain and flood blocked water intake point with huge debris that bulldozed Malemchi bazaar. It is believed that heavy rain sipped into the crevasses created by 2015 earth quack and the loose soil in the slopes flowed down to the river that turned into flood. The soil on the mountain slopes became loose due to haphazardly constructed road. In the past 10 years the roads in Helambu has reached to remote villages. Now it is believed to be the main cause.

The initial investigation as reported in newspapers the landslides started from Yangri danda (hill) north of Tarkeghyang. It is no wonder the amount of mud and debris is simply not from the river itself.

?The devastation caused by natural disaster to Malemchi and loss of access roads to the villages in the mountains will takes decades to recover as 80 percent of the bridges are damaged, not usable at all ?and the roads too are damaged by landslides.

?Once easy and quick access to Helambu to enjoy Mountain View and retreat will now not be as easy option. The flood brought the clock back almost to its original state.

?Manang Flood: Another popular tourist destination. Manang has been hard hit this time by monsoon rain. Since July 15 the incessant rain and intermittent floods in Marsyangdi River has not stopped. The bridges were swept away and roads were damaged and in some parts road access are completely cut off.?The bailey-bridge at Chame is at constant risk. The flood changed the course at places of Marsyangdi River in the upper section that swept away some villages. The torrential rain caused landslides and flood in the river.?Even after rain has receded the continuous flow of flood through various tributaries has caused sleepless night in the villages.?

Manang and Chame suffered severe damaged.?Government reported so far 56 houses. There are about 200 houses are at risk of being destroyed or swept away.?Families in Tal village in Nasho are already displaced. Road network and communication in Manang District were disrupted.?Even the road from Dumre to Besisahar was disrupted. The trekking route once again may change if the reconstruction work could not be completed in time.?

Sustainable Tourism (Sikles village )

Hospitality & Culture

?Home stay at Pilatse in Patan

After earthquake in 2015 local of Pilatse in Patan rebuilt their destroyed house and buildings in traditional Newari style. 120 households in this locality got together to start home stay for visitors. They started with two house hold in the beginning. By end this year their plan is add 40 households in the scheme. Many houses are still yet to be rebuilt.

In the home stay each house host 2 to 8 bed rooms. They have included cultural programme and full board meal prepared in Newari house. Visitors will have chance to sample their traditional culture and tradition. In some houses they also have service apartment and guest house and restaurant.?They have small private museum where visitors can visit and get live information about local history and tradition. ?The ground floor is decorated with wood carving. House owner stays on the third floor; first and second floor are used for guests.

The houses were rebuilt in partnership with the local government. It is the concept of Maya Foundation. They built concept foundation for a small city that can be copied elsewhere.?National Reconstruction body formed by the

Government after the earth quack has taken Pilatse home stay as their pilot project. ?While doing the reconstruction modern materials are discouraged while building the houses.??????

Home stay in Gurung Village ??

Home Stay – A personal experience with a family in a mountain village. Stay in a Gurung Village situated in the lap of Annapurna Himalaya

Home stay is not an experience to stay at a place ‘home away from home.’ It is neither an authentic travel experience with local people nor learning of unique culture. I believe it provide an opportunity for the visitors to stay with a local host, either in a village or city, and stay as a paying guests. In the villages usually visitors are given a local treat when you stay for a short time. You are welcome by the community and assigned to a local host. Home prepared meals are served. Visitors are taken on the village tours and view point to see majestic Himalayan ranges. Accommodations are basic and clean with a separate toilet facilities. The host community organizes cultural dance and songs to entertain their guests. Guests staying longer may be able to participate in host daily activities. Many youth from the cities like to visit such home stay places for village hospitality which they missed in the cities.??

The closest places for best home stay are in Lamjung district. Ghalegaun and Kaulepani villages are popular. It is situated at the elevation of 2100 meter. There are 32 houses in Ghalegaun and Kaulepani has 14 household that provide home stay facilities. Other nearby villages - Pasgaun, Siurung, Rainaskot and Bhujung are also hosting home stay for visitors.?There are other villages like Chhapa of Taghring, Kahnigaun of Ghermu which like to participate in the program.

Ghanpokhari and Ghale Gaun has always been an attraction for short hikers in earlier days when home stay was not known. Trekkers used to reach Ghale Gaun through Ghanpokhari from Pokhara or vice versa. Gurung are indigenous ethnic group in Ghale Gaun and Ghan Pokhari. Traditionally young men of these villages are drafted in British and Indian Army. They practice their own kind of Buddhism which is different from Sherpa and Newar in Kathmandu.?You will find many ex retired soldiers in these villages. According to national census of 1991 total population of the village was 3168, total household was 597. You can see Mt. Machhapuchare (6693m), Mt. Annapurna II (7939m), Annapurna IV (7525m) Lamjung Himal and Himalchuli (6747m). Dr. Harka Gurung, a well know geographer and travel writer was from the same district - Lamjung . His book ‘Vignettes of Nepal’ has been popular with travelers and research scholars.?????

(Ghale Ghau) ???????????????????

Environment: Chure hill – Environment Challenge

Present multiparty coalition government repelled communist government policy that would have turned southern hill area into a desert if had their way to expert sand and stone to India. Without preservation of nature and its environment there will be no tourism

Chure hill again came to the front page news. Just before parliament was abruptly dissolved illegally by the communist government of KP Oli, it had made a policy?statement in its Annual Finance Budgetary of fiscal year 2021-2022 to allow export of sand and stones from Chure hills to India; it claimed to mitigate over whelming trade deficit with India. The parliament which was later reinstated by constitutional court and the budget became null and void when present Democratic parties lead collation government came into power.

Chure hills are also known as Siwaliks; it also goes by the name Muree. This part of the sub-Himalayan belt is the foothills foot hills of the Himalayan Range that extend beyond Nepal to India to the east and west. The foot hills are made of sediments that flow from higher up by the natural process of erosion of the Himalayan belt. In terms of elevation it is between 2000 (610m) to 3000 feet(915m) high and in Nepal it is 10 miles (16km) wide and 30 (48km) to 40 miles (64km) long. It is a wide basin often referred to as Inner Tarai.?

Before the middle of the last century this large swath of land above East-West highway was well protected by the thick forest in the south and malaria in the Terai belt. It became habitable once malaria was eradicated from Terai. Encroachment started after East West highway was built. King Mahendra planned the highway to link Eastern part of the country to the West. His plan was to settle people south of the highway to protect thick forest to the north. Gradually migration from hills down south and encroachment clearing of forest began in 1960s. By the time the high way completed in 1980 the migration took momentum. The forest cleared to supply timber for development and large part of the land on both sides of the highway turned into cultivated land.?All development activities happened south of the highway. People from the mountain migrated started migrating to fertile land in Terai. By 1990 Chure slopes are cleared of the forests that are holding the entire landscape thus exposing Mahabaharat range to erosion. After logging Inner Terai and Chure range people start excavating the land for boulders, stones and sand that are in high demand in Bangladesh, India as well as in development activities in Nepal.

?Many rivers flowing south are then mined extensively over the years; these rivers are depleted of its resources. The contractors in league with corrupt government authorities flouted rules sets for excavation and extracted rivers deep and wide. Stones, boulders and sands made its way illegally to neighbor country and in construction sites. Now, the attention is in excavation of this Chure belt for its natural resources for export. Experts believed the contractors influenced then existing government (prime minister) to make excavation, extraction and export these natural resources legally. The previous communist corrupt government then introduced policy in its financial budget to allow export of this valuable resources from Chure hills by sugar coating it with the assurance that the excavation work will be allowed in limited area with measures in place to protect nature. In its policy statement in the parliament, just before it dissolved unconstitutionally, it stated that it is done to offset high trade imbalance between Nepal and India.

?The far reaching effect of destroyed Chure hill belt in ecosystem of Terai and mountain will not only impact economy and livelihood its consequence will be detrimental to entire landmass in Nepal. Already flooded condition along the India border area in monsoon rain by embankments built by India on their side; and landslide and flood happening in rapid scale in the mountain due to various reasons including natural disaster like earth quack will be worsened to epic proportion if the land mass holding the mountain is allowed to deplete of its resources.

Chure hill – Environment Challenge Continued

The prognosis is that entire environment in Nepal would be very negatively influenced. In 2014 the Government of Nepal declared Chure geographical region as Chure Environmental Protection Area. It was initiated by then president of the first republic Dr. Ram Baran Yadav. It was then a board for conservation work was instituted Chure-Tarai Madhesh Conservation Development Board (PCTMCDB). At that time budget of NRs. 6.15 billion was allocated. However it lacked legal authority to implement its plan of action. Like in conservation of endangered species Chure hill conservation require full integrated plan to be effective. This has been the voice of conservationist and experts from letting this vital region turned into a desert. The looming danger is happening at a time when snow capped Himalayas are melting at unprecedented level exposing the rocks that are holding it.

“Chure-Tarai Madhesh landscape region is ecologically diverse as it provides several ecosystem services to the areas downstream, and also, has direct influence on the quality of the environment. The region is structurally weak and fragile due to deforestation, forestland ?fragmentation and encroachment, rural road construction, overgrazing,forest fire, cultivation on the steep slopes and soil erosion. These have resulted in land degradation in the upstream and siltation and sedimentation in the downstream of the fertile land. Moreover, impact of climate change is unprecedented in the area due to high vulnerability. Intensity of rainfall in the area is high in rainy season and drought and dry in winter. Based on the topography, geology, geo-morphology and climate, the Chure mountain is naturally vulnerable to landslides and soil erosion. According to a latest report (IOF 2019), more than one-third of the Chure region is highly susceptible, and 40 per cent of its region is susceptible to landslide. With the growing demand for sand, gravel and boulders in both Nepal and India, mining industry boomed, and focused Chure region to extract these materials.”

At the moment the only hope is the government in power, the protector of the land and its people, does not cut the branch of the tree that the country sits on. Present collation government in its first joint policy statement has expressed its commitment not to use or exploit natural resource for profit at the detrimental of environment. It has promised to protect citizen’s right to clean environment and implement steps for conservation of natural diversity

More detail: Read “Help save the Chure Hills” https://archive.nepalitimes.com/news.php?id=19811?

Kathmandu Heritage Tour – 9 Days

TOURS IN KATHMANDU VALLEY

It was in 1951 Boris Lisanevich opened first hotel for tourist in Kathmandu. Prince Basundhara was his business partner. This famous ‘Royal Hotel’ brought and served first tourists to Kathmandu. Tourists started arriving in Kathmandu in 1960. Since then the three cities in Kathmandu valley became popular sightseeing places. It is must program in all tourist itinerary. The cultural heritages are in the core centers of the Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur cities. Visitors agree that they are open museums.

Now, tourist with leisure time treads further outside the city. Bungamati and Khokna have become popular villages to experience traditional Newar culture of Kathmandu valley. Baudhanath, Pasupatinath and Swambhunath are other religious sites that are in tourist itinerary. All three sites bear cultural significance. Swambhunath popular called monkey temple situated on top of a hill is a historical site. These popular tourists’ sites have historical and religious

TOURS IN KATHMANDU VALLEY - continued

significance in the Nepalese society.

People have strong belief in reincarnation and faith in Gods. Their expressions are the temples and monasteries. They are everywhere - in the streets and houses. People have crafted temples and monasteries in all conceivable places since ages.

?Hill top places in Nagarkot and Dhulikhel are popular tourists’ destination. It is famous for sunrise and sunset view over the Himalaya. On a clear day you can see the peak of Mt. Everest.

?You have option to join a mountain flights conducted in a fixed wing air-craft. This mountain flight tour gets you closer to the high Himalaya. You can see whole range of the glittering Himalayan range. The other option is a helicopter flight. It takes you close to the base camp of the huge mountain.?Mountain and helicopter flights are not included in the price.

From US$495 per person https://www.kailashhimalaya.com/kathmandu-heritage-tour-9-days/

Tourist Destinations ?

Visit Popular Tourism Places in 2022 Revisit the Destinations

Kathmandu is a major tourist destination and gateway for international visitors. Most of the interesting places, events and monuments are clustered around Kathmandu.?Patan and Bhaktapur are two other adjoining large cities in Kathmandu valley. It is a treasure house of prominent and historical arts and crafts. Many restoration works were done to preserve ancient works of arts. Kathmandu valley is sometime called an open museum by visitors because all historical palaces, temples and monasteries are scattered and clustered around the open valley floor. These cities are also hubs of cultural event of local Newar communities and modern event organizers.

?What are the popular touring places

Nepal is best known for mountain and Himalaya, heritage, hospitality and cultural diversity. It is also very well known for jungle safari in Chitwan National Park and white water rafting. Nepal is home to many of the best peaks for climbing and places for trekking and hiking. There are wide varieties of treks to choose – easy to extreme. Detail will be listed in next issue. Here you will find some of the popular tour destinations that stand out. The descriptions are in brief to help you choose.

Nepal is enjoyable and stunning all year round except in July and August when monsoon rain falls in full swing.

When is the best time to visit

Best time to enjoy is in autumn (October and November) and spring (Mar and April). You will have great time doing whatever activities you choose. These are the time when there are less rain and snow fall, warm weather, clear sky and months of holidays, festivals and harvest. During winter (December, January, and often February) normally heavy snowfall in the mountain makes some treks in the Himalayan region difficult and inaccessible. But rest of the places in Nepal enjoys great sun shine though bit colder. However, this is the best time when there are less tourist crowed in popular destinations. Rafting and other add on adventure and leisure activities are good from October throughout to May and June.

Kathmandu Valley

Kathmandu has been gateway to tourism in Nepal. Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan are three major ancient cities in the valley. It is often referred to as Kathmandu. The valley is known for its civilization, art, architecture, festival, sunrise over the Himalayas and numerous short hikes to the rim of the valley. The average temperature is comfortable throughout the year. With many luxury and affordable hotels, eateries and entertainment centers visitors have wide varieties of choice to make. All these make Kathmandu the best place to visit for all visitors. Here is a list of places

?Three cities in Kathmandu valley: Tour of Durbar Squares of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur located at the center of the three cities has rich cultural heritage often known as open museum. Swambhunath, Boudhanath and Pasupatinath?are centers of worship by Buddhist and Hindus which are their living heritage. Observing tradition of worshipping living Goddess and enjoying interacting with local artisans, artist and people is pleasure you enjoy.?

?

Other places of interests are:

·????????Changunarayan and Bajrayogini – Art & heritage

·????????Bungamati and Panauti – Outlying mini villages that has traditional look

·????????Nagarkot and Dhulikhel - Sunrise view over the Himalayas

·????????Chisapani, NamoBuddha, Pulchauki and Pharping – Short hikes on the rim of Kathmandu valley

·????????Bungee Jumping in Bhote Kosi river

?

Annapurna Foothill and Pokhara

The villages and cities in the lap of Annapurna and outlying area are popular destination for leisure and village culture. Pokhara is the most popular city and Bandipur is most sought after escape place located high on a hill groomed by Newar business community migrated from Kathmandu. ?Ghanpokhari and Ghale gaun are best known for village life experience and Gurung culture. Ghorepani is the most popular short trek and Ghandrung village is one of the best well known mountain village.

?Short Treks in Annapurna foothill has many routes that provides great view of Annapurna Himalayan range and very enjoyable easy treks to close by destinations from Pokhara. It has several places for ultimate relaxation in boating or swimming in Phewa Lake. There are fun activities like paragliding, ultra light mountain flight and zeeping. For thrilling experience to raise your adrenaline

Annapurna Foothill and Pokhara -Continued

?Take bungee jumping in Kaligandaki River. Lake side has several entertainment joints, restaurants and bars. It is fun to hang around the lake and relax at its shore bars.

?

List of other center of attraction

·????????Siklis – Short trek to experience community development and close up view of Annapurna

·????????Ghorepani Trek – a short trek that gives close up view of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna

·????????Dhumpus village?- A place to retreat

·????????Panchase danda – view point very close to Pokhara

·????????Phewa Lake in Pokhara – Recreation in dugout boat ride in the serene lake

·????????Trout farming in Pokhara?- Excursion and picnic

·????????Paragliding, ultra light flight, bungee jumping and boating – light adventure

·????????Sarankot village -?The view point offer panoramic view of Annapurna Himalayan range

·????????Sightseeing place are Davis fall, Mahendra Cave, Peace stupa, mountaineering museum

·????????Home stay at Sirubari – a Gurung village

?Wild life - Chitwan National Park

Jungle in Chitwan was well known for tiger hunting. Now it is the most popular wild life reserve and nature recreation and conservation place. The extensive area of the park is home of endangered species like crocodiles, rhinoceros and tiger. There are numerous hotels and safari camp at the outskirt of the park. Rapti River that flows through the park provides sighting opportunities to see local and migrating birds and almost extinct species of crocodile. Elephant back ride (humanly handle), jungle walk and village visit are other activities most visitors enjoy. Of all jungle environment is refreshing and relaxing.?It offer fun activities and luxurious escape

?What you need to know

·????????The distance from Kathmandu to Pokhara is 200km (6 hour drive)

·????????You can take a day white water river rafting (5 hour) in Trishuli river on the way to Chitwan

·????????You may visit Bandipur (147 km / 4 hour drive from Kathmandu) before heading to Chitwan (35 km / 1 hour drive from Bandipur)

·????????Safari camps and hotel offer package activities with full board accommodations. Average price for 2 night/ 3days – In standard accommodation US$150 to $250. In Luxurious room ?US$350 to $500

·????????There are several affordable accommodation offering room only option

·????????if you are looking for alternative to luxury escape and safari package Sauraha is choice destination in the park

·????????Tharu are native of Chitwan. You get chance to meet and interact with them

·????????Now there are no safari lodges or camps inside the Chitwan National Park. All are in the periphery of the park.

·????????Local ethnic community offer home stay service?

?White Water River Rafting in Trishuli River

After trekking white water rafting was first introduce in the river of Nepal in 1980s. Since then this river trip has been popular adventure activity in Nepal. Trishuli River attracts most visitors due to its proximity to Pokhara and Chitwan. The rafting is done in a sturdy and high quality rubber boat. The boat is safe and flexible. With expert river guide (boatman) you will enjoy to shoot the rapids in this swift flowing snow fed river. It is a thrilling and pleasant experience. It is a fun outdoor add on activity

?What you need to know

·????????Its first put in point is 80 km (2 hour) from Kathmandu

·????????A day raft is about 6 hour that includes lunch break

·????????Rafting equipment and safety gears are provided

·????????Raft is guided experienced boat man

·????????Camping option is available

·????????Rafting duration?- one to three days (Float to Chitwan)

·????????Except Jun to September (during monsoon rain) rest of the year is good for rafting. Best is in October and November in the fall and March to May in spring.

17 Reasons to Travel to NEPAL in 2022 NEPAL Perspective

Trekkers and climbers who visited Nepal in 2020 and in spring 2021 found mountain villages and mountain peaks like in early 90’s. Unlike in the past trekking and mountaineering too suffered the consequence of covid-19. So, there were very few adventure seekers on the mountain trial. The lodges are almost for themselves. Early 2022 would be almost similar.

?There is a good side of corona virus: It has closed or limited human encroachment to nature; at least for some time. Sir Edmund Hillary used to lament about environment concern of Mt. Everest. He once remarked to allow no climber for a period of time to let the mountain rejuvenate and regenerate itself.

The greed and aspiration of human beings have consistently put pressure on the mountain for its sustainable climbing activities. No matter how many cleaning expeditions have successfully brought down the left garbage the increasing numbers of climbers in the mountain every year have left twice the amount brought down to base camp.

In the cities and in national parks the environment has become cleaner and nature has returned back to its natural state; though may be not to its original state but far better than we all have experienced.?Many monuments in Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur that were destroyed by earth quack have been rebuilt and restored. Depleted condition of government run school got completely new and fresh look. Good for the kids, otherwise they had no choice but to study in depleted building. Many houses in the center cities and in villages that were ruined and damaged by earth have been rebuilt. Several communities have joined hands to innovate their own style to show their unique culture and serve upcoming tourists. There are numerous examples to show case new and various tourism facilities. It is engaging.?????

Before the crowd sets in and take hold, 2022 is the best time to visit some of the best destinations to experience live culture, tradition and uplifted work on the monuments. ?It is never too late to make your plan.

17 Reasons to Travel in 2022

1.??????Covid-19 is here to stay

2.??????Vaccinated Travel

3.??????International Airlines are ready to fly in to Kathmandu

4.??????Domestic airlines are flying (most are 35 to 45 min flight)

5.??????Transportation ?service will be normal

6.??????Travel protocol restriction measures would be lowered or relaxed.

7.??????Mountain are safe environment

8.??????Proactive vaccination drive is in place

9.??????Government are prepared

10.???Infection rates would be receding

11.???Best time to travel when tourism revival activities are beginning to pickup

12.???Extreme weather conditions are becoming shorter. Winter season is pushed further

13.???Experience Nepal like when it was just opened to tourist. The only difference is very much improved facilities and amenities

14.???You will find empty trek lodges and uncrowded touristic places ?

15.???You can visit anywhere

16.???National Parks, trek destination and touristic places will be opened.

17.???Most of the damaged monuments and architecture by 2015 earth quack have been ?reconstructed and restored?

Articles of the month?I would like to share “The tragic tale of Mt Everest’s most famous dead body”

https://www.bbc.com/future/story/20151008-the-tragic-story-of-mt-everests-most-famous-dead-body

“It is clear that the stake [the mountaineer] risk to lose is a great one with him: it is a matter of life and death…. To win the game he has first to reach the mountain’s summit – but, further, he has to descend in safety. The more difficult the way and the more numerous the dangers, the greater is his victory.”

?- George Mallory, 1924

?Mustang Overland Tour – 11 days

?Visit Mustang – By Overland Journey? From US$1495 per person

https://www.kailashhimalaya.com/mustang-overland-tour-11-days/

Entry Procedure & Visa Latest update

This is continuation of our update on entry rules of Department of Immigration for visitors irrespective of type of tourism related travel - trekking, climbing tours, sightseeing or family visit. This update is based on Department of Immigration Notice dated April 28, 2021. This is continuation of immigration rules published on Jan 24, 2021. April 28, 2021 notice is basically clarification of earlier notices issued by Department of Immigration. Circular of Civilian Aviation Authority of Nepal dated June 29, 2021.

1.???????Tourists are required to obtain tourist visa prior to arrival in Nepal. Now all Nepalese diplomatic missions issues tourist visa. Though visa on arrival with recommendation letter is possible it is best to get visa from the Nepal diplomatic missions. ????????????????????????For visitors from countries that has no Nepalese embassy they can obtain tourist visa on arrival; but they must carry with them pre approved or recommendation letter from the concerned ministry to obtain on arrival visa at the port of entry.

2.???????Visitors arriving for trekking and climbing purpose can make visa application with a recommendation letter to get on arrival visa. It can be obtained with the help of trekking companies. For documentation work they will have to get recommendation letter from Nepal Tourism Board to the Department of Immigration. A copy is sent to the airport (TIA) and to the visitors.??????????????????????????????????????????????(This is unpublished rule that has been effective since October 2020)

3.???????Travelers arriving by flights should submit Covid -19 negative swap report taken within 72 hours from the swap collection time to departure time of the flight - The report has to be issued by registered Covid-19 Labs, and proof of hotel booking for 7 days hotel quarantine to ensure arrival permission. Same rule apply for Nepalese nationals. Test report is exempted for children below 5 year (The rules say quarantine has to be in hotels selected by the Tourism Ministry but it has not been strictly followed. (Detail of the hotels are in the website of Nepal Tourism Board)

4.??????All foreigners should follow health and security related protocols of Government of Nepal.”

5.??????Fully vaccinated visitors against covid-19 with vaccinated certificate are allowed to proceed to their onward destination and maintain prescribed health and travel protocol (standard distancing, wear mask and observe cleaning rules). They have to be in self quarantine for 10 days upon arrival. This rule is exempted for special cases (check with us for detail). Home or self quarantine required to do PCR test on the 7th day.

6.??????Departure permission of all foreign nationals travelling to third country is suspended except those whose transit is within the airport. Foreign nationals who are already in Nepal are permitted to depart by land or airport immigration points

7.??????Non Resident Nepali and foreigners working for UN and diplomats can obtain visa on arrival subject to health protocol set by Nepal Government.

8.??????All travelers must fill online form “Abroad Returnee Management System” from the website: www.ccmc.gov.np . Incase if they have missed to fill in online concerned airline ought to ensure the form is filled before boarding or upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu). It is mandatory for all arriving airline passengers.

9.??????Person traveling from or in transit through countries afflicted by Covid-19 variant are allowed to enter Nepal subject to following additional conditions:?

10.????To get visa travelers must submit detail of their flight and travel date to Nepalese diplomatic mission abroad.?The travelers must have hotel booking with hotels listed by Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism prior to purchase of air-ticket. However, this rule to stay at particular hotel is relaxed. ????????????????????????????????????????????????This list is published in the website of the Tourism Ministry* and website maintain by Covid-19 Crisis Management Center run by Health Ministry.

11.???Travel Insurance document (Insured amount US$5000) that cover duration of travel that cover health, immediate crisis or rescue .?It is safe to assume that this updated rules regarding management of covid-19 are true to the best of our knowledge. This information is compiled from the instructions and notice issued by various travel related government authorities. It is updated every three month. ?Please note at time the rules become confusing as various government authorities issues related notices. Because of changing situation of the virus often it is difficult to find one page rule at Department of Immigration. They simply imply it is an updated latest notice. Always it is best to check Nepalese diplomatic mission in your country or your travel agent or outfitter for latest update.

Note:

§?Once all procedures are completed you are free to travel anywhere in Nepal.

?§?You should note that every district can impose their restrictions at any time to control the epidemic.

?§?Most mountain areas are less infected. ?

?Quarantine rules are often not followed due to relaxed monitoring procedures.

Log on to our updated website

www.kailashhimalaya.com

The challenges in high altitude treks in Nepal is incomparable to any destinations in the Himalayas

?Aart Last & Sandra (Phoksindu Lake, Dolpa)

Covid-19 is here to stay. Let us accommodate our life with the dire situation. When travel restrictions are eased, concern for contacting is reduced, life around the world turns into new normal, the Himalayas and its wonderful mountain will be still there waiting for your dream to come true.

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Panoramic view of the Himalayan range in Everest Trek - Mt. Everest from the summit of Kalapattar

Leo Tolstoy - War & Peace

“One of the first conditions of happiness is that the link between Man and Nature shall not be broken”

?Quote from Buddha

“The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, nor worry about the future, nut to live the present moment wisely and earnestly”

Nepal is the most inclusive and versatile tourism destination in the Himalayas

The challenge in high altitude treks in Nepal is incomparable to any destination in the Himalayan belt. Nepal is the most open Himalayan destination on either side and at both ends of the Himalayas. There is no restriction at all. And, Nepal has most ethnic diversity than any countries in the stretch covered by the Himalayas.

?Nepal has eight out of 14 eight-thousand meter peaks in the world. It has 1301 peaks over 6000 meter height. The highest peak in the world Mt. Everest (8848m) is in Nepal.

Himalayas in Nepal is a natural wonder and its ecology is a wonderful gift that require to experience personally

Kailash Himalaya Trek has 39 years of experience taking explorers, wonderers, self seekers, trekkers, climbers and sightseers around to experience moment of their life time.

We dazzle you with our service and expertise?

For detail dash an email to us: [email protected]

Rafting in Trishuli River?