THE MOST DRAMATIC LANDSCAPES ON EARTH


Nepal is a blend ancient history, vibrant cultures and scenic grandeur, Located between China and India. Nepal’s main geographical features include snow-capped peaks. Lower mountains, mid hills and fertile Terai plains of tropical jungles. Early e-third of the total length of the Himalayas and 8 of the world 14 highest peaks are in Nepal. The landlocked country covers an area 147,181sq. kilometers ranging from 70 meters to the highest point at 8,848 meters above sea level. Nepal’s popularity as a tourist destination has increased vastly over the years, While trekking and mountaineering have long been popular. An entire range of other activities are carried out. With the variety of adventure options, the country is a favorite among adventure lovers.

TREKKING
Trekking is the highlight of a visit to Nepal. The range of geographical features, variety of vegetation and rich Himalayan culture award trekkers with unique trekking experience. Thousands of visitors trek to different parts of Nepal every year to experience the charm of nature and culture. Most treks go through altitude between 1000 to 4000 meters, while some popular parts reach over 5000 meters.
Protected regions along the Himalayas like Shey-Phoksundo, Langtang, Sagarmatha, Makalu- Barun , Rara, Kanchenjunga and Shgivapuri national parks, and Annapurna and Manaslu conservation areas, Provide excellent trekking options. For group trekkers arrangement for food and accommodation are managed by the trekking crew, while independent trekkers can find night rest and food halt at small lodges and tea houses that dot the main trails. Independent trekkers should be self sufficient. As per new regulations, all trekkers are required to carry TIMS Card on their trek ( see behind for details). For further details on trekking information please log on to www.taan.org.np ( official web site of Trekking Agencies Association of Nepali).
BOATING
From glacier-fed lakes up north to where rivers ease into the Terai plains, there are numerous lakes in Nepal where tourists can experience the pleasures of boating. With famous lakes like Phewa, Begnas and Rupa, Pokhara is known as the lake city and a popular place to go boating.
In the Terai, one can go canoeing on Narayani or Rapti rivers near Chitwan National Park. Boats and canoes can be rented from local dealers on hourly basis from nearby areas. Pokhara and Chitwan are accessible both by air and road from Kathmandu. A wide variety of accommodation ad other facilities are easily available in both the places.

ROCK CLIMBING
Rock climbing is challenging sport for outdoor lovers. Most of the areas for rock climbing are situated towards the north of Katmandu in the Nagarjun forest and Shivapuri National Park areas. Trip to these places can be combined with hiking, bird watching, nature tours and other activities. Nagarjun, 3 kilometers from Kathmandu city can be reached via Balaju near the New Bus Park, Shivapuri, cab reached via Budhanilkanth which is 9 Kilometers outside the city area in Kathmandu.
BUNGY JUMPING
The ultimate thrill of bungy jumping is offered at one the best sites in the world . Nepal’s bungy jumpig site is situated 160 meters over the raging Bhote Koshi river in the northern part of the Country. The site is located close to the Nepal- China border at Barahbise and is 3 hour bus ride form Kathmandu. A package deal includes the jump, bus ride to the site and meals.Nepalis are entitled to a 30 percent discount. Accommodation and other facilities are available in barahbise.
JUNGLE SAFARI
The tropical jungles of Nepal’s Terai preserve some the best wildlife habitat in the subcontinent. Jungle safaris on elephant back or jeep rides are offered at Chitwan National Park, Bardiya National Park, Parsa Wildlife Reserve, and Shuklaphanta wildlife Reserve m all located in Terai. Winter months here are temperate while summer and monsoons are hot and humid. A wide range of tourist facilities are available in an around the areas.

MOUNTAIN BIKING
Nepal’s diverse terrain is a mountain biker’s dream. Biking offers an environmentally sound way of exploring the Country. It is possible to go biking the entire length of Nepal. Centuries-old dirt roads and trails offer a chance to go on extended trips to exotic locales like Annapurna and Kanchenjunga areas. 21 to 27 gear bicycles are recommended when riding through Himalayan terrain. Mountain bikes are available for rent at numerous bicycle rental outlets in and around Kathmandu or Pokhara. Riders can explore rims and ridges of Kathmandu and Pokhara through off routes that weave in and out of the cities. Food and accommodation facilities are available along the main trails. It is recommednded to use the services of licensed biking companies. For more information please log on the www.bikehimalayas.com or www.cyclingnepal.com (official web site of Nepal Mountain Bike Tours).

MOUNTAINEERING
Mountaineering iw the prime attraction of Nepal. The mountains of Nepal have stood as irresistible landmarks of the world’s adventures since Nepal opened its doors to visitors in the 1950s.Mountaineering can range from climbing the highest peaks over 8000 meters to climbing lower peaks which even though considered minor by Himalayan standards are technically quite challenging. There are 33 “trekking peaks” opened by the Government. Mountaineering teams can apply for permit at mountaineering section of the Ministry of Tourism and civil Aviation .For further information please log on to www.tourism.gov.np ( official web site of the Ministry) or www.nepalmountaineering.org (official web site of the Nepal Mountaineering Association ).

Climbing gears can be bought or rented in Kathmnadu and Pokhara. Many of the mountaineering and trekkinig companies also offer packages, where they provide gear, food, transportation, guides, porter services and also arrange for insurance coverage. Orientation on altitude sickness, acclimatization process and safety measures is a must for every mountaineer. The fatal sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) cab be dangerous for climbers ascending 3000 meters and above. Symptoms include headache, loss of appetite and sleeplessness. Immediate descent of evacuation to lower altitude is the best cure for AMS. For further details on mountaineering safety and challenges please log on to www.himalayanrescue.org ( official web site of Himalayan Rescue Association ).

Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS)
TIMS is a regulatory provision introduced by the Government of Nepal to ensure safety of trekkers and to control illegal trekking.Every trekker (FIT and group trekker )must obtain TIMS Card before entering the trekking region.TIMS Card can be obtained at NTB, Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal( TAAN)and Government registered trekking companies in Kathmandu and Pokhara.Official hours for TIMS are : same as Government working hours at NTB and TAAN; 12 hours every day throughout the year at trekking companies.TIMS is non-transferable, non-endorsable and valid only for single entry.To obtain TIMS Card, a copy of passport and two passport-size photographs are required.
For more information, please visit www.timsnepal.com