Embarking on a journey to the Roof of the World, also known as the Himalayas, is an unparalleled adventure. Nestled in the heart of Asia, this towering mountain range boasts some of the world’s highest peaks, including the majestic Mount Everest. Journey to the Roof of the World is a transformative experience, a fusion of natural beauty and human resilience, and an opportunity to touch the sky in a way that will forever resonate in your heart and soul. Trekking in Nepal is a spiritual experience as much as an outdoor adventure. Explore the legendary Annapurna Circuit, where charming villages, terraced fields, and rhododendron forests frame the backdrop of your trek. Or set your sights on the Everest Base Camp Trek, a challenging odyssey that rewards you with the awe-inspiring sight of Mount Everest up close.

Nepal, nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, is a trekker’s paradise. Its majestic mountains, including the iconic Mount Everest, offer some of the most awe-inspiring trekking experiences in the world. From novice adventurers to seasoned hikers, Nepal has something to offer everyone.

1. Everest Base Camp Trek:
The Everest Base Camp Trek is a dream come true for many. It takes you through Sherpa villages, rhododendron forests, and breathtaking landscapes. The highlight, of course, is reaching the base camp of the world’s highest mountain, where you can witness the grandeur of Everest up close.

2. Annapurna Circuit Trek:
The Annapurna Circuit Trek offers a diverse range of terrains, from lush subtropical forests to high-altitude deserts. You’ll pass through charming villages, cross suspension bridges, and soak in hot springs along the way. The Thorong La Pass, standing at 5,416 meters, is a challenging but rewarding highlight.

3. Langtang Valley Trek:
For those seeking a quieter, less crowded trekking experience, Langtang Valley is a hidden gem. It’s home to pristine alpine lakes, dense forests, and warm-hearted Tamang and Sherpa communities. The Langtang National Park is a sanctuary for rare wildlife like red pandas.

4. Manaslu Circuit Trek:
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an off-the-beaten-path adventure. It circumnavigates the eighth-highest mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu. This remote and culturally rich trek offers a glimpse into traditional Tibetan villages and ancient monasteries.

Nepal’s majestic mountains are not just about trekking; they are a journey of self-discovery. The trails, people, and culture will leave an indelible mark on your heart. So, lace up your hiking boots, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and let Nepal’s majestic mountains take you on an adventure that will forever etch itself in your memory. It’s time to explore the roof of the world.

Nepal has banned solo trekking: A step towards responsible adventure tourism. Nepal, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and mesmerizing Himalayan trails, has long been a magnet for adventure seekers and trekkers from around the globe. However, in a recent move to prioritize safety and ensure the well-being of travellers, the Nepalese government has imposed a ban on solo trekking. This decision comes as a measure to mitigate potential risks and challenges faced by lone trekkers in the rugged terrains of the country. While solo trekking has been a thrilling endeavour for many, the ban aims to enhance security and safeguard travellers against various hazards.

Reasoning Behind the Ban:
The decision to prohibit solo trekking in Nepal is rooted in the concern for the safety and security of travellers. The country’s diverse landscapes, ranging from high-altitude mountains to dense forests, present numerous challenges, even for experienced trekkers. In the past, incidents of accidents, injuries, and even disappearances of solo trekkers have raised alarms, highlighting the need for stricter regulations. By banning solo trekking, the Nepalese government aims to reduce the likelihood of such incidents and ensure that trekkers have a support system in place during their journeys.

Promoting Group Trekking for Safety:
Group trekking has long been considered a safer option, providing trekkers with a support network and access to local guides who are well-versed in the terrain. With the ban on solo trekking, travellers are encouraged to form groups, allowing them to share experiences, overcome challenges together, and seek assistance if necessary. Group trekking not only enhances safety but also contributes to a more enjoyable and enriching adventure, as trekkers can learn from one another and forge lasting friendships.

Better Emergency Response and Communication:
Another critical factor contributing to the ban on solo trekking is the improvement of emergency response capabilities and communication in remote regions of Nepal. Solo trekkers are more vulnerable to accidents or illnesses without immediate access to help. By promoting group trekking, the chances of timely assistance in case of emergencies are significantly increased, as groups can efficiently communicate and notify authorities or rescue teams about any distress situations.

Preserving Natural Beauty and Culture:
Beyond safety concerns, the ban on solo trekking also aligns with Nepal’s efforts to preserve its pristine natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Large groups are easier to manage and control, reducing the environmental impact of trekkers on sensitive ecosystems. Additionally, local cultures and communities can be better respected and protected when visitors travel in organized groups, minimizing the risk of cultural misunderstandings and disruptive behaviour.

In conclusion, Nepal’s decision to ban solo trekking is a significant step towards ensuring the well-being of trekkers and preserving the country’s rich natural heritage. By embracing guided group trekking, adventure enthusiasts can continue to explore Nepal’s awe-inspiring landscapes while enjoying enhanced safety measures and contributing to the sustainability of local communities. As travelers, it is essential to respect and abide by these regulations, as they serve as a testament to Nepal’s dedication to being a responsible and welcoming destination for adventure seekers from around the globe.

Nepal is a beautiful country nestled in the heart of the Himalayas and trekking in Nepal 2023 will be a wonderful experience, known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. It is a popular destination for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts from around the world who come to explore its many majestic peaks, winding trails, and breathtaking landscapes. Nepal is home to eight of the ten highest peaks in the world, including Mount Everest, the highest peak on Earth. These mountains attract adventure seekers from all over the globe who come to Nepal to trek, climb, and explore. The country is also famous for its diverse flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species like the Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, and the elusive snow leopard.

The country offers a wide range of trekking options, from short day hikes to multi-day expeditions that take you through remote villages, towering mountains, and pristine wilderness areas. Trekking in Nepal is an unforgettable experience. There is a wide range of trekking options, from easy and short treks to challenging and lengthy expeditions. The most popular trekking routes include the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, the Annapurna Circuit Trek, Everest Base Camp Trek, Langtang Valley Trek, and the Manaslu Circuit Trek. These treks offer stunning views of the mountains, valleys, and glaciers, as well as the opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions.

Trekking in Nepal is a wonderful experience that attracts thousands of tourists every year. Nepal has a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, and trekking is an excellent way to experience both.

Here are some general guidelines and information you may find useful if you plan to trekking in Nepal 2023:

1. Best time to trek: The best time to trek in Nepal is from March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn). During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the skies are clear, making it easier to enjoy the beautiful landscapes.
2. Popular treks: Nepal has numerous trekking routes that cater to different preferences and fitness levels. Some of the popular treks include Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, Langtang Trek, and Upper Mustang Trek.
3. Permits: Trekking permits are required for most treks in Nepal. The permits are available through the Nepal Tourism Board or the local trekking agencies. The cost of the permit depends on the duration of your trek and the region you are trekking in.
4. Accommodation: Along the trekking routes, there are teahouses or lodges that provide basic accommodation and meals. However, during peak seasons, these lodges can get crowded, and it is advisable to book in advance.
5. Fitness: Trekking in Nepal requires a certain level of fitness, and it is recommended that you start training a few months before your trek. You can incorporate cardio and strength training exercises to prepare your body for the trek.
6. Altitude sickness: Altitude sickness is a common issue for trekkers in Nepal, especially those trekking to high altitudes. It is essential to acclimatize properly and follow the guidelines of your guide to prevent altitude sickness.
7. Guide and porter: It is advisable to hire a guide and porter for your trek. A guide can provide valuable information about the trek, the culture, and the region, while a porter can carry your luggage, allowing you to focus on the trek.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a popular adventure in Nepal that takes you to the foot of one of the world’s highest peaks, Annapurna South. The trek is renowned for its stunning mountain views, including Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli and Gangapurna. The trail passes through various ethnic villages, providing a unique opportunity to learn about the diverse cultures and lifestyles of the Nepalese people. The trek offers lush forests, waterfalls, rhododendron forests, and glaciers, making it a truly scenic journey. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is relatively easy to reach compared to other high-altitude treks in Nepal and is accessible to a wider range of trekkers. The warm hospitality of the local communities along the trail is a highlight, and the natural hot springs of Jhinu Danda offer a chance to relax and rejuvenate. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is also less crowded compared to other popular treks in Nepal, providing a peaceful and intimate experience.

10 best reasons to choose Annapurna Base Camp Trek:

1. Stunning mountain views: The Annapurna Base Camp trek offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna range, including the highest peak Annapurna South (7,219m).
2. Diverse landscapes: Experience diverse landscapes like lush forests, terraced fields, hot springs, and high-altitude deserts.
3. Rich Culture: Explore the traditional Gurung village, observe their daily life, and learn about their culture and traditions.
4. Moderate difficulty: Annapurna Base Camp trek is a moderate trek, suitable for first-time trekkers and experienced trekkers alike.
5. Accessibility: The trek is well connected with Kathmandu and Pokhara, making it easier to reach.
6. Variety of accommodation options: Ranging from basic teahouses to luxurious lodges, there is a range of accommodation options to choose from.
7. Natural hot springs: Take a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs in Jhinu Danda, a great way to soothe your muscles after a long day of trekking.
8. Off-beaten path: Despite its popularity, the trek still offers a serene and peaceful experience, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
9. Unique flora and fauna: Discover the unique and diverse flora and fauna of the Annapurna region, including rare species of birds and plants.
10. Community-based tourism: Support the local communities by choosing a responsible trekking company, promoting sustainable tourism practices in the region.

The Everest Base Camp Trek is a popular trek in the Nepalese Himalayas that takes trekkers to the base of the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest. Everest Base Camp Trek is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, challenging hikes, and unique cultural experiences. The Everest Base Camp Trek begins in Lukla, a small town in the Solu-Khumbu region, and takes trekkers on a 14-day journey through several Sherpa villages, lush forests, and high-altitude passes. Along the way, trekkers will encounter stunning views of mountains such as Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and Lhotse.

The Everest Base Camp Trek is a challenging one, with steep ascents and descents, and requires a good level of physical fitness. However, the breathtaking scenery and the sense of accomplishment at reaching the base camp make it all worth it. The trail passes through lush forests, bridges over gushing rivers, and traditional Sherpa villages, offering a glimpse into the local culture and lifestyle.

As trekkers make their way to the base camp, the landscape changes from lush forests to barren, rugged terrain and the view of the surrounding peaks becomes more and more breathtaking. At the base camp, trekkers are rewarded with panoramic views of Mount Everest, and the nearby peaks of Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam.

The Everest Base Camp Trek is not only a physical challenge but also a cultural experience. The trekkers are hosted by the friendly Sherpa communities and can observe their way of life and traditions, which have been passed down for generations. The Everest Base Camp Trek is also an opportunity to learn about the local culture, including their customs, beliefs, and festivals. The Everest Base Camp trek is one of the most popular and challenging hikes in the world. Here are some tips to help you have a successful trek:

1. Start with a good fitness level: Trekking to the Everest Base Camp (EBC) is a physically demanding experience that requires good fitness. Begin preparing yourself several months ahead by doing cardio, strength training and high-altitude training.

2. Proper gear: Make sure you have the right gear, including warm clothing, sturdy boots, a good backpack, and a good sleeping bag. A down jacket is essential for the cold nights and a hat and gloves for the windy days.

3. Acclimate properly: Give yourself sufficient time to acclimate to the high altitude by spending at least two nights in Namche Bazaar before proceeding to higher altitudes. Drink plenty of water and take it slow to avoid altitude sickness.

4. Hire a reputable guide: Hiring a reputable and experienced guide can greatly enhance your trekking experience and ensure that you are safe on the trail. They will also help with local knowledge, logistics, and permits.

5. Pace yourself: The key to a successful trek to EBC is to go slow and steady. Avoid over-exertion, drink plenty of water, and take breaks when needed. Listen to your body and adjust your pace accordingly.

6. Plan ahead: Plan ahead and research your route and the facilities available along the way. Know what to expect and be prepared for the unexpected. Consider using a travel agency to help with the planning process.

7. Respect the environment: The Everest region is a fragile ecosystem and trekkers should take care to minimize their impact on the environment. Follow Leave No Trace principles and be mindful of the local culture and customs.

8. Keep warm: The temperature drops significantly at night and can be below freezing even in the middle of the trekking season. Make sure you have warm clothing, a good sleeping bag and a sleeping mat for a comfortable night’s sleep.

9. Stay hydrated: Dehydration can be a problem at high altitudes, so it’s important to drink plenty of water. Bring a water purification system with you or buy bottled water along the way.

10. Have a positive attitude: Finally, have a positive attitude, be flexible and be prepared to enjoy the experience. The trek to EBC is an unforgettable adventure, so make the most of it.

As the attraction for adventure tourism in the country has seen a sturdy rise in recent times, the number of adventure activities has also been increasing.

One of the most popular adventure activities in the country is paragliding. Paragliding is especially famous in Pokhara. However, in recent years the private sector has been sheeting down investment in paragliding services in Kathmandu Valley as well.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has recently issued permits for two new paragliding zones near Kathmandu Valley. The new paragliding services will be located in Suryachaur and Tistung.

According to CAAN, Nepal Paragliding has received a permit to operate Paragliding at Suryachaur. As per the proposal submitted to CAAN, the company will operate Paragliding services covering the areas of Suryachaur, Shivapuri, and Nuwakot.

The company has received a permit to operate paragliding flights up to a height of 6,500 meters.
Meanwhile, a company named Tistung Paragliding has also received a permit from CAAN to operate paragliding services from Tistung in Makawanpur.

It has received a permit to operate Paragliding flights up to a height of 5,000 meters. As per CAAN, both zones can be used only from February 27 due to some technical reasons.

As per the private sector, paragliding near Kathmandu saves time for people who want to avail of the adventure activity.

For those who come to Nepal just to experience Paragliding and for those who don’t have enough time to go out of the valley, Paragliding near the valley saves them both money and time.

Prior to this, paragliding services were being operated from Godavari and Shankarapur in Kathmandu.

Meanwhile, recently CAAN has issued permission for two such zones at Khandbari in Sankhuwasabha
district. Gradually the adventure sport is spreading across the country.

Source: The Himalayan Times

The Visit Nepal Year 2020 has been officially inaugurated amidst a special ceremony held at Dashrath Stadium on the 1st of January.

President Bidya Devi Bhandari torches the lamp to officially inaugurate the Visit Nepal Year 2020 campaign amidst an event organized at Dashrath Stadium, in Kathmandu, on Wednesday, January 1, 2020. Photo: RSS

President Bidya Devi Bhandari inaugurated VNY-2020 amidst a grand ceremony held at the Stadium.

Also present at the function were the Chief Justice, National Assembly Chairperson, former prime ministers, ministers, political party leaders, dignitaries from various countries including tourism ministers, heads of constitutional bodies, heads of diplomatic missions, and members of the parliament.

In his welcome speech, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Yogesh Bhattarai said that VNY-2020 was only an entry point and that the government was preparing to observe the coming decade as the tourism decade.

Prior to the official inaugural ceremony, march-past by associations related to the tourism sector and social organizations were held while the Nepal Army, Nepal Police and Armed Police Force made a special presentation. Prominent musical bands of Nepal also performed on
the occasion.

The campaign was also officially inaugurated in all the seven provinces today. Also, speaking on the occasion, VNY-2020 Secretariat Coordinator Suraj Baidya said the inaugural ceremony was focused on emphasizing Nepal’s culture, heritage, costumes, and lifestyle while promoting tourism in the country

Tihar which is also known as the festival of lights is just around the corner and women from Women Empowerment Center aren’t in the mood to let it go. The Tihar festival falls in the spring season, which is also the main tourist season for a foreigner to visit Nepal. The days get clearer after the monsoon and people are in a festive mood. If you want to volunteer and travel, Nepal then this is the best time to visit Nepal as you can do the trekking and enjoy the festival at the same time.

Women from the women’s center celebrated the festival by playing (traditional songs that are song during Tihar), made (art form created on the floor using different colors, white flour, and petals) and eating (ring-shaped rice doughnut). They also showed the cooking skills they learned at home while making Selroti. Women center is the place to learn, empower themselves and share their feelings. Women Center is helping to boost confidence in them through the means of education.

We don’t have the age limit to enroll at the Women Center, age is only the number, if you have the desire to come out of ignorance and illiteracy then you are most welcome join our Women’s Empowerment Center.

A government team is scheduled to hold a final round of negotiation to rope in Germany’s Munich Airport to provide operational management services at Nepal’s second international airport in Bhairahawa.

Rajan Pokhrel, director general at the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, said that a round of negotiation with the company has been completed and the final negotiation would be completed immediately after the Tihar festival.

Pokhrel, who is also a member of the government committee entrusted with the task to deal with the company, said talks were going well.

“We have formally invited the company for a final round of negotiation which will conclude the operation management fee and other services that the company will impart at the new airport,” Pokhrel told the Post.

Pokhrel said that the committee has also been working on launching an incentive package to attract international airlines at the new airport. “We will also discuss the incentive package with the company [Munich Airport]. If the company is appointed for the operation of management services, we have to jointly launch the package.”

Giving monetary incentives is not uncommon in many newly developed airports globally. According to a  Malaysian news report, a Malaysian airport had given cash incentives to airlines that continue to bring in additional passenger traffic to the country.

The report says that even Singapore’s Changi Airport does it, with the size of the monetary award in proportion to the number of passengers brought in.

Pokhrel did not divulge the incentive package they have been mulling—cash or free landing parking and other services—but some officials at the Tourism Ministry said a cash incentive would be more effective. “We have not decided on the incentive package but there are several modalities which will be discussed.”

In June, the Cabinet gave the Tourism Ministry approval to appoint international firms for the operational readiness and airport transfer (ORAT) operation of the Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahawa through a government to government deal with following a proposal from Munich Airport including other international firms.

Munich Airport is the second busiest airport in Germany in terms of passenger traffic after Frankfurt Airport, and the seventh busiest airport in Europe, handling 44.6 million passengers in 2017.

Located in south-central Nepal, the airport will be the gateway to the international pilgrimage destination of Lumbini, the birthplace of Gautam Buddha. The airport will have a 3,000-metre-long and 45-metre-wide runway.

The much-delayed airport is expected to be completed by December-end and conduct test flights by March-end next year.

As only finishing the construction work will not assure operational readiness, ORAT will play a big role in helping the new facility open on time, according to the Tourism Ministry officials.

ORAT is the best way to ensure that every aspect of a new facility functions flawlessly right from day one. ORAT consultants work with airport stakeholders to formulate new processes, train staff, and test every single new system and procedure from passenger and baggage handling to airside operations.

The government is under heavy pressure to improve the efficiency of the sole international airport in Kathmandu that is managed by the Civil Aviation Authority. It plans to test how efficiently Munich Airport will operate the new airport.

Government officials said a timely inauguration of the airport would give a boost to the Visit Nepal 2020 campaign when the country expects to host 2 million tourists.

Construction work at Gautam Buddha International Airport began in January 2015. The Civil Aviation Authority awarded the Rs6.22-billion contract to China’s Northwest Civil Aviation Airport Construction Group in November 2013. The airport was initially slated to be ready in December 2017. The project suffered multiple hurdles that pushed back the completion deadline several times.

Source: Kathmandu Post

KATHMANDU: China’s mountaineering authority today issued a special climbing permit to Nirmal ‘Nims’ Purja allowing him to scale Mt Shishapangma, this season.

The former UK’s special forces member Purja, who climbed Mt Manaslu as his 13th eight-thousander last month, is all set to head for Tibet to make his final attempt on Mt Shishapangma in a day or two after China Tibet Mountaineering Association issued a special climbing permit for the 8,027-metre peak in Tibet.

FILE – Nirmal Purja, a former UK’s Special Forces Member is in a mission to complete all 14 peaks above 8,000 m in just seven months.

Purja aims to climb Mt Shishapangma by this November to complete all 14 peaks above 8,000 meters in just seven months.

“The team ‘Project Possible’ has finally obtained a climbing permit for Mt Shishapangma,” Purja, who has already scaled 13 peaks above 8,000 meters in just over five months, setting multiple world records in the history of mountain climbing, confirmed. “I will leave for Tibet with my team members in a couple of days,” he told THT.

Renowned climber Mingma David Sherpa, Gesman Tamang, Gyalzen Sherpa, Temba Sherpa, Jangbu Sherpa, and Mingma Sherpa will also accompany Purja on Mt Shishapangma. Mingma David is also on his bid to complete all 14 peaks above 8,000 m by climbing Shishapangma this season.

READ MORE: China to allow Nirmal ‘Nims’ Purja to climb Shishapangma

“We are a strong team and we are very confident to complete this mission,” Purja said, thanking all including CTMA, Tibet Mountaineering Association, and government agencies among others for their support and timely cooperation. “I would like to thank the government of Nepal for approaching China on my behalf for this project and I would also like to thank the government of China for considering my application and allowing me to climb Shishapangma this year.”

Last month, Purja had made it to the top of Mt Manaslu, the world’s eighth highest peak, completing his 13th eight-thousander in just 158 days.

The former UK’s Special Forces member began his ‘Project Possible’ in April to complete all 14 peaks by November. If he succeeds in scaling Mt Shishapangma, he will conquer all 14 peaks in just six months. “Now, I want to complete it in six months,” Purja said.

The current records for such an attempt are seven years, 10 months and six days by Korean climber Kim Chang-ho in 2013 and seven years, 11 months and 14 days by Polish climber Jerzy Kukuczka in 1987.

Purja was the first Gurkha to join the elite Special Boat Service and already has multiple world records for speed climbing to his name.

Mountaineering world believes that Purja’s project is one of a kind that will test human endurance to its limit. Purja has pushed the limits of human potential in mountaineering, according to the expedition operators.