Specific Plan for Developing Tourism In Five Most Earthquake Affected Districts In Nepal

  • ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK - 15 DAYS
    ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK - 15 DAYS
    This trek is the one of best views of annapurna range, nilgiri , Dhaulagiri , Tukuche peak , Dhampus peak , Hiunchuli ,Machhapuchhre , Gangapurna, Lamjung Himal other many more greatest views of mountains you never seen before.
  • KATHMANDU-POKHARA-CHITWAN TOUR (BY FLY/LAND)- 07 NIGHTS 08 DAYS
    KATHMANDU-POKHARA-CHITWAN TOUR (BY FLY/LAND)- 07 NIGHTS 08 DAYS
    Nepal, the land of splendid nature and rich culture is waiting for you exploration through its different facets.
  • DAMODAR KUND TOUR BY HELICOPTER - 05 NIGHTS 06 DAYS
    DAMODAR KUND TOUR BY HELICOPTER - 05 NIGHTS 06 DAYS
    Many Hindus from round the globe are dreaming to take a holy bath at least once in their life time in the sacred Damodar-Kund
  • 08 DAYS 07 NIGHTS NEPAL TRIP:  KATHMANDU 3N, CHITWAN 2N, POKHARA 2N
    08 DAYS 07 NIGHTS NEPAL TRIP: KATHMANDU 3N, CHITWAN 2N, POKHARA 2N
    Nepal, the land of splendid nature and rich culture is waiting for you exploration through its different facets.
  • EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK - 17 DAYS
    EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK - 17 DAYS
    Sagamartha (Everest) Base Camp trek takes us into one of the most spectacular regions of Nepal where the Sherpa culture thrives amongst the highest peaks in the world.
  • KAILASH MANSAROVAR YATRA BY OVERLAND - 14 DAYS
    KAILASH MANSAROVAR YATRA BY OVERLAND - 14 DAYS
    Mt. Kailash (6714m) is the most sacred mountain in Asia.
  • KAILASH YATRA BY HELICOPTER VIA NEPALGUNJ/SIMIKOT/HILSA/TAKLAKOT - 11 DAYS
    KAILASH YATRA BY HELICOPTER VIA NEPALGUNJ/SIMIKOT/HILSA/TAKLAKOT - 11 DAYS
    Mt. Kailash, the sacred mountain and the abode of the Hindu god Shiva is one of the world's greatest pilgrimage destinations especially for Hindus, Buddhist, Jains and others.
  • MUKTINATH TOUR BY LAND/FLIGHT
    MUKTINATH TOUR BY LAND/FLIGHT
    Muktinath is one of the most ancient Hindu temples of God Vishnu.

In course of re-establishment of tourism industry in Nepal, a concept of tourism village is developed. This plan has a goal of making one village an example to tourism industry among five affected districts. Tourism ministry has planned in making five tourism villages.
Tourism Council will working in hand to hand with Urban Development ministry in this process. Said director in chief of Tourism council Mr. Tulashi Prasad Gautam. These type of villages will be made on most affected areas like Gorkha, Dhading, Sindhupalchowk and Dolakha.
Least affected villages from these regions will be selected and made Tourism Village. Gautam said, “For the development of villages, private organizations in those areas will be given some help in and other services will be made available to them.”
These districts are most visited tourist destinations. Langtang which lies in between Gorkha and Rasuwa district, Manasalu of gorkha and many regions of Sindhupalchowk and Dolakha are hugely affected by the quake. In place of the regions which has been completely destroyed by the earthquake new destinations are being planned for making.
According to tourism council, Langtang of Rasuwa, Manaslu of Gorkha, Helambu of Sindhupalchowk, and Gaurisankhar of Dolakha are being planned to be made as tourism villages.
More tourism villages will be made in other affected regions too, Gautam said. We need some home stays too as many of hotels in these regions are affected.

TOURISM RE-ESTABLISHMENT FUND:-
For the recovery of tourism a fund will be made in which first of all Nepal Tourism Board will help 10 crores. Said the Co- director in chief of council Ramesh Kumar Adhikari. A bank account will be opened as soon as possible and an appeal for help will be made to different organizations, international agencies etc. Tourism Recovery Committee (TRC) will make efforts on collection of details on affected areas and they will propose an agenda of developing those areas in right way.

FIRST PRIORITY WILL BE GIVEN TO TREKKING:-
Many trekking routes are affected due to the earthquake. These routes will be made as soon as possible and government will give its full force for fast re-development of this trails, said co-director Adhikari. Adhikari also said, “Main Trekking are affected in many places, in some places it is fully destroyed and in some it is partially affected. Partially affected routes can be re-constructed and a new route will be developed in places which can’t be re-build.
About 350 KM of trekking route is affected by the earthquake in total. Three crores is needed to open these routes, said Director in Chief Gautam.

A GUIDE MUST BE NEEDED FOR TREKKING:-
The affected regions of the earthquake are really dangerous so no trekkers will be permitted to trek alone without a guide. Gutam said, “Alone trekkers will not be permitted there must be group of two or more than two trekkers. One trained trekking guide is compulsory in those group.”

WE CANT MISS NEXT SEASON:-
This September was a complete loss in tourism industry. Up to nest September we must build a safe environment for tourists, said member of TRC Pandey. Pandey also said, “These kind of natural disaster does not take place in Nepal only, it too happens in other countries. What we should learn from them is fast recovery.” He added, “We should learn from them and make our efforts effective.”
After the earthquake number of tourist coming to Nepal is decreased but number of volunteers from different countries is certainly increased. Up to next season, tourist who used to come visit Nepal for fun should be increased. For this governmental and private organization should work joining hands.
Pandey said that PATA is the organization which has helped many countries for the recovery of tourism and PATA has promised to help Nepal to get through difficult condition. A team of expertise will soon arrive in Nepal. He said, “PATA will play effective role in re-development of tourism in Nepal.”

NUMBER OF TOURISTS WILL BE INCREASED:-
When these aftershocks will be over, it is believed that number of tourists visiting Nepal will also increase. Gautam said that, “International airlines had stopped providing its service as there were no more than 30 tourists. This number was increasing up to 70 but the strong aftershock on Tuesday decreased the number again.”
According to data of Airlines if aftershocks will decrease than number of tourists will increase, said Gautam. We should make sure and advertise Nepal does not still mean danger it’s safe and peaceful now for visiting.

EFFORTS BEING MADE TO OPEN HERITAGES:-
Many historical heritages, cultural spots, Durbar squares are affected by earthquake. Some of them are crushed to rubble. Now this places should be reconstructed and should be made safe to visit. Council is trying its best and making every efforts they can for this purpose, said Adhikari. There was meeting held between DOA and related agencies on this topic,
Due to the quake five hundred and twenty one heritages are destroyed. If another strong aftershock comes then many of them will be destroyed completely. For proper re- construction of these heritages and to make sure it’s safe for visiting many works are yet to be done, said Adhikari.

FIVE CRORES FOR VICTIMS:-
Tourism board will help five crores to earthquake victims. This decision was made by the meeting held on Baishak 31st. this amount will be deposited in Prime Minister Relief fund.
Private sectors should also help in this recovering process as much as possible and there is regular discussion going on in this matter from time to time in meeting held by Tourism Board.
In this difficult time of country each and every hands and heads are required for fast recovering of the country and tourism industry. As tourism is one of the main economical source for Nepal it must be recovered as fast as possible.

 Source: http://tourismheadline.com/

Damaged heritage sites continue to attract visitors

  • ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK - 15 DAYS
    ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK - 15 DAYS
    This trek is the one of best views of annapurna range, nilgiri , Dhaulagiri , Tukuche peak , Dhampus peak , Hiunchuli ,Machhapuchhre , Gangapurna, Lamjung Himal other many more greatest views of mountains you never seen before.
  • KATHMANDU-POKHARA-CHITWAN TOUR (BY FLY/LAND)- 07 NIGHTS 08 DAYS
    KATHMANDU-POKHARA-CHITWAN TOUR (BY FLY/LAND)- 07 NIGHTS 08 DAYS
    Nepal, the land of splendid nature and rich culture is waiting for you exploration through its different facets.
  • DAMODAR KUND TOUR BY HELICOPTER - 05 NIGHTS 06 DAYS
    DAMODAR KUND TOUR BY HELICOPTER - 05 NIGHTS 06 DAYS
    Many Hindus from round the globe are dreaming to take a holy bath at least once in their life time in the sacred Damodar-Kund
  • 08 DAYS 07 NIGHTS NEPAL TRIP:  KATHMANDU 3N, CHITWAN 2N, POKHARA 2N
    08 DAYS 07 NIGHTS NEPAL TRIP: KATHMANDU 3N, CHITWAN 2N, POKHARA 2N
    Nepal, the land of splendid nature and rich culture is waiting for you exploration through its different facets.
  • EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK - 17 DAYS
    EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK - 17 DAYS
    Sagamartha (Everest) Base Camp trek takes us into one of the most spectacular regions of Nepal where the Sherpa culture thrives amongst the highest peaks in the world.
  • KAILASH MANSAROVAR YATRA BY OVERLAND - 14 DAYS
    KAILASH MANSAROVAR YATRA BY OVERLAND - 14 DAYS
    Mt. Kailash (6714m) is the most sacred mountain in Asia.
  • KAILASH YATRA BY HELICOPTER VIA NEPALGUNJ/SIMIKOT/HILSA/TAKLAKOT - 11 DAYS
    KAILASH YATRA BY HELICOPTER VIA NEPALGUNJ/SIMIKOT/HILSA/TAKLAKOT - 11 DAYS
    Mt. Kailash, the sacred mountain and the abode of the Hindu god Shiva is one of the world's greatest pilgrimage destinations especially for Hindus, Buddhist, Jains and others.
  • MUKTINATH TOUR BY LAND/FLIGHT
    MUKTINATH TOUR BY LAND/FLIGHT
    Muktinath is one of the most ancient Hindu temples of God Vishnu.

With life gradually returning to normal after the devastating earthquake almost a month ago on April 25 and a major aftershock on May 12 in the Kathmandu Valley, cultural heritage sites too have started seeing visitors — foreign as well as domestic.

A New Zealander, who arrived in Kathmandu yesterday, said he made a dash for heritage sites immediately after his arrival in the capital.

“Nepal is my second home. Just because it is broken I would not stop coming. I came here to share the tragedy of these cultural sites and people with whom I have emotional ties for more than 15 years,” said Barry Whitaker, adding: “It’s heartbreaking to see these beautiful structures in ruins but my love for them will never cease.” He opined that efforts must be made to restore the monuments.

“I thought what I could do to help people protect and conserve these ancient properties handed by their ancestors. I was very sorry to see the pictures and video footage of destruction on the Internet,” he said.

Ramesh Kumar Adhikari, Deputy Director General at the Department of Tourism, said flow of visitors has increased in heritage sites that suffered huge loss due to the April 25 massive quake with several monuments either completely destroyed or partially damaged. The purpose of the visit however has changed now, he said. Some are visiting the sites for research while some want to take stock of the situation in the aftermath of the disaster, he said, adding most of them, however, are one at restoring the monuments.

The beautiful centuries-old monuments that would leave people stand in awe now are in ruins and for those who have been to these places many times before April 25, the rubble now presents a heartbreaking sight.

The heritage sites filled with twisted debris have been visited by tourists and international journalists, said Adhikari.

Mohan Murti Panta, a professor of architecture at Khwopa Engineering College, Bhaktapur, said, “I have been visiting these heritage sites almost every day to assess the damage of the historical structures not only for my individual knowledge but to help my students study and conduct research on future reconstruction work for conserving our unique properties.”

Manoj Ray, a post-graduate student of Cultural Studies at Indira Gandhi National Open University, Kolkata, India, whose team is busy interviewing people and photographing the collapsed structures in Hanumandhoka Durbar Square, said, “We are here to conduct a case study on cultural impact caused by an earthquake.”

Sudir Bhandari, who has already made half a dozen documentaries on cultural sites of Nepal, said, “We are now filming videos of these damaged structures and are planning to make a documentary about the impact of earthquake on heritage sites of the Valley. This time we want to help the country raise fund for reconstruction.”

Historical and cultural sites, which had a broad range of historical and artistic achievements within the Kathmandu Valley World Heritage Property, were badly hit by the earthquake and its aftershocks. Particularly, Durbar Squares of Hanuman Dhoka, Patan and Bhaktapur as well as large number of ancient palaces, courtyard, stupas and temples were almost reduced to the rubble by the earthquake.

source:the himalayan times

Kathmandu-Varanasi direct bus service begins

Kathmandu-Varanasi direct bus service begins
  • ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK - 15 DAYS
    ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK - 15 DAYS
    This trek is the one of best views of annapurna range, nilgiri , Dhaulagiri , Tukuche peak , Dhampus peak , Hiunchuli ,Machhapuchhre , Gangapurna, Lamjung Himal other many more greatest views of mountains you never seen before.
  • KATHMANDU-POKHARA-CHITWAN TOUR (BY FLY/LAND)- 07 NIGHTS 08 DAYS
    KATHMANDU-POKHARA-CHITWAN TOUR (BY FLY/LAND)- 07 NIGHTS 08 DAYS
    Nepal, the land of splendid nature and rich culture is waiting for you exploration through its different facets.
  • DAMODAR KUND TOUR BY HELICOPTER - 05 NIGHTS 06 DAYS
    DAMODAR KUND TOUR BY HELICOPTER - 05 NIGHTS 06 DAYS
    Many Hindus from round the globe are dreaming to take a holy bath at least once in their life time in the sacred Damodar-Kund
  • 08 DAYS 07 NIGHTS NEPAL TRIP:  KATHMANDU 3N, CHITWAN 2N, POKHARA 2N
    08 DAYS 07 NIGHTS NEPAL TRIP: KATHMANDU 3N, CHITWAN 2N, POKHARA 2N
    Nepal, the land of splendid nature and rich culture is waiting for you exploration through its different facets.
  • EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK - 17 DAYS
    EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK - 17 DAYS
    Sagamartha (Everest) Base Camp trek takes us into one of the most spectacular regions of Nepal where the Sherpa culture thrives amongst the highest peaks in the world.
  • KAILASH MANSAROVAR YATRA BY OVERLAND - 14 DAYS
    KAILASH MANSAROVAR YATRA BY OVERLAND - 14 DAYS
    Mt. Kailash (6714m) is the most sacred mountain in Asia.
  • KAILASH YATRA BY HELICOPTER VIA NEPALGUNJ/SIMIKOT/HILSA/TAKLAKOT - 11 DAYS
    KAILASH YATRA BY HELICOPTER VIA NEPALGUNJ/SIMIKOT/HILSA/TAKLAKOT - 11 DAYS
    Mt. Kailash, the sacred mountain and the abode of the Hindu god Shiva is one of the world's greatest pilgrimage destinations especially for Hindus, Buddhist, Jains and others.
  • MUKTINATH TOUR BY LAND/FLIGHT
    MUKTINATH TOUR BY LAND/FLIGHT
    Muktinath is one of the most ancient Hindu temples of God Vishnu.

A regular Kathmandu Varanasi bus service was flagged off amid a function in the Capital on Thursday. The Nepali registered ceremonial bus will follow the Kathmandu-Bhairahawa-Sunauli-Azamgarh-Varanasi route. The bus would be covering about 600 kms during its journey of about 12 hours. The bus service has been started under the provisions of Motor Vehicle Agreement between Nepal and India during the visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Nepal during the 19th Saarc Summit in November last year.

Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport Bimalendra Nidhi and Ambassador of India to Nepal Ranjit Rae flagged off the bus service.  The flag-off ceremony was conducted from a spot near Dashrath Stadium, Kathmandu. Another regular bus operated by Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) from Varanasi to Kathmandu through the same route was also flagged-off from Varanasi by the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Akhilesh Yadav on Wednesday.  UPSRTC has fixed the ticket cost of Varanasi to Kathmandu bus at about Rs 2,100. “The start of regular bus service between Kathmandu and Varanasi is expected to enhance people to people contact and further strengthen ties between people of India and Nepal.

banaras-bus

The bus service is also likely to have a positive impact on the tourism industry as both Kathmandu and Varanasi are popular tourist destinations,” said a statement issued by the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu. Regular bus service on Kathmandu-Delhi route is already operating since November 25 last year. In the next phase Pokhara-Delhi route would be made operational for which consultation process between the officials of the two governments is already underway, added the statement. To discuss the issues related to implementation of bilateral Motor Vehicle Agreement for regulation of passenger traffic, an Indian delegation from Ministry Of Road Transport & Highways participated in a meeting with their Nepali Counterparts in Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport on Wednesday.

The implementation of this bilateral agreement would facilitate seamless and hassle-free movement of people between India and Nepal, said the Indian Embassy statement.

Along with the launching the bus service, flagging-off ceremony of Kathmandu-Varanasi service coincided with the flag-off of the first Indo-Nepal Friendship Motor Rally which was conducted on the same day at the same function.

Minister of Youth and Sports Purushottam Paudel and Indian Ambassador Rae flagged off the Motor Rally.

Source: Ekantipur

Places to hang out in Kathmandu Valley

Places to hang out in Kathmandu Valley

There seems to be no place in the Kathmandu Valley that hasn’t been breached upon by the ambitious will of a domestic adventurer: That funky restaurant? Oh no, you went there last time with your peeps. That cool place to hang out? Nah, went there for a funny photo shoot with colleagues. Sometimes, it feels as if the Valley is the same old assortment of familiar people and even more familiar settings. But worry not. I guess looking for a needle in the haystack is even better for the true adventurer at heart. The Week, as usual, comes to your aid.

Newa Lahana, Kirtipur
This restaurant is famous for its spot on Newar delicacies and drinks.newa-lahana-kirtipur

To reach there, go past the Tribhuvan University Heights and take a right turn. With two and a half stories dedicated solely for food lovers, also find the place apt for hanging out with your friends and family. The views from the rooftop are ones that you shouldn’t miss. Look forward to a great experience at Lahana.

Bhaktapur

Bhaktapur
traditionally known as the city of devotees, Bhaktapur is always a supreme place to hang out in. With its old brick houses and lanes, any place you go there will be a treat to your eyes and senses. Take a look at the potter’s village, or even sign up for a pottery class! If you are in your walking shoes, then you can go for hiking around the famous Changu Narayan Temple. Although Bhaktapur is the smallest city among the three in the Valley, it still has a string of temples and places that are waiting for the right kind of visitors.

Bungamati/Khokana

bungamati_khokana
A bus from Lagankhel for 30-45 minutes – depending on the crowd in the vehicle – and you’ll reach this beautiful Newar village of Bungamati. Bungamati has grown to become a local tourist destination, with extended cultural events on auspicious days, and traditional music in full swing and the locals clad in traditional wears. If not, go for an evening to watch the sunset, from where you can also watch the Khokana valley in the right. Stroll around in the ancient hamlet where it seems time has decided to rest. This evening will definitely be memorable.

Nag Daha, Dhapakhel
Nag Daha is a big pond which, from afar, looks like a snake. It’s a haven for nature seekers: The pond with gentle water ripples surrounded by greenery is quiet and perfect for solace. To reach there, take a public vehicle from Lagankhel to Dhapakhel, and walk for a few minutes. The place even has a modest number of eateries if you’re looking to enjoy the place with food. If you’re lucky, you can even get a chance at boating. This will be a good opportunity for the legend seeker in you. This legendarily rich place may have some stories that you can share later on.

The Sankata Temple, New Road
If you’re tired of hanging around Basantapur and are looking for something less crowded, then you could give the Sankata Temple a visit. It has a big courtyard dedicated to it, and one can easily find a ‘chiya pasal’ along with a few other snacks. If you are really in the mood for local food, then seek the Sankata Restaurant which is hidden in a busy alley to the north of the temple. Aside from serving the regular lunchtime snacks, they have yummy baras that are worth dying for. The area is pretty big, with people doing their usual businesses. Sneak in for a laidback time with your buddies.

Source: Republica

Buddha relics found in Tilaurakot

Buddha relics found in Tilaurakot
  • ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK - 15 DAYS
    ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK - 15 DAYS
    This trek is the one of best views of annapurna range, nilgiri , Dhaulagiri , Tukuche peak , Dhampus peak , Hiunchuli ,Machhapuchhre , Gangapurna, Lamjung Himal other many more greatest views of mountains you never seen before.
  • KATHMANDU-POKHARA-CHITWAN TOUR (BY FLY/LAND)- 07 NIGHTS 08 DAYS
    KATHMANDU-POKHARA-CHITWAN TOUR (BY FLY/LAND)- 07 NIGHTS 08 DAYS
    Nepal, the land of splendid nature and rich culture is waiting for you exploration through its different facets.
  • DAMODAR KUND TOUR BY HELICOPTER - 05 NIGHTS 06 DAYS
    DAMODAR KUND TOUR BY HELICOPTER - 05 NIGHTS 06 DAYS
    Many Hindus from round the globe are dreaming to take a holy bath at least once in their life time in the sacred Damodar-Kund
  • 08 DAYS 07 NIGHTS NEPAL TRIP:  KATHMANDU 3N, CHITWAN 2N, POKHARA 2N
    08 DAYS 07 NIGHTS NEPAL TRIP: KATHMANDU 3N, CHITWAN 2N, POKHARA 2N
    Nepal, the land of splendid nature and rich culture is waiting for you exploration through its different facets.
  • EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK - 17 DAYS
    EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK - 17 DAYS
    Sagamartha (Everest) Base Camp trek takes us into one of the most spectacular regions of Nepal where the Sherpa culture thrives amongst the highest peaks in the world.
  • KAILASH MANSAROVAR YATRA BY OVERLAND - 14 DAYS
    KAILASH MANSAROVAR YATRA BY OVERLAND - 14 DAYS
    Mt. Kailash (6714m) is the most sacred mountain in Asia.
  • KAILASH YATRA BY HELICOPTER VIA NEPALGUNJ/SIMIKOT/HILSA/TAKLAKOT - 11 DAYS
    KAILASH YATRA BY HELICOPTER VIA NEPALGUNJ/SIMIKOT/HILSA/TAKLAKOT - 11 DAYS
    Mt. Kailash, the sacred mountain and the abode of the Hindu god Shiva is one of the world's greatest pilgrimage destinations especially for Hindus, Buddhist, Jains and others.
  • MUKTINATH TOUR BY LAND/FLIGHT
    MUKTINATH TOUR BY LAND/FLIGHT
    Muktinath is one of the most ancient Hindu temples of God Vishnu.

The remains of more than 1.5 lakh items of archaeological importance related to Gautam Buddha were excavated this year’ in Tilaurakot Durbar Square of Kapilvastu.

Tilaurakot-lumbini

More than 700 items and 1.5 lakh remains belonging to Buddha’s time were found at the world heritage site, said Dr Jennifer Trimley, an archaeologist of Durham University, UK.

Researchers at Tilaurakot Durbar found remains of an ancient human settlement. They found clay pots, coal, and structures of houses.

The excavation was jointly held with technical assistance from archaeologists of Durham University and financial support from Japanese trust funds, Nepal Archaeology Department and Lumbini Development Trust.

Source: The Himalayan Times

Nepali tourism delegation off to New Delhi

  • ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK - 15 DAYS
    ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK - 15 DAYS
    This trek is the one of best views of annapurna range, nilgiri , Dhaulagiri , Tukuche peak , Dhampus peak , Hiunchuli ,Machhapuchhre , Gangapurna, Lamjung Himal other many more greatest views of mountains you never seen before.
  • KATHMANDU-POKHARA-CHITWAN TOUR (BY FLY/LAND)- 07 NIGHTS 08 DAYS
    KATHMANDU-POKHARA-CHITWAN TOUR (BY FLY/LAND)- 07 NIGHTS 08 DAYS
    Nepal, the land of splendid nature and rich culture is waiting for you exploration through its different facets.
  • DAMODAR KUND TOUR BY HELICOPTER - 05 NIGHTS 06 DAYS
    DAMODAR KUND TOUR BY HELICOPTER - 05 NIGHTS 06 DAYS
    Many Hindus from round the globe are dreaming to take a holy bath at least once in their life time in the sacred Damodar-Kund
  • 08 DAYS 07 NIGHTS NEPAL TRIP:  KATHMANDU 3N, CHITWAN 2N, POKHARA 2N
    08 DAYS 07 NIGHTS NEPAL TRIP: KATHMANDU 3N, CHITWAN 2N, POKHARA 2N
    Nepal, the land of splendid nature and rich culture is waiting for you exploration through its different facets.
  • EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK - 17 DAYS
    EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK - 17 DAYS
    Sagamartha (Everest) Base Camp trek takes us into one of the most spectacular regions of Nepal where the Sherpa culture thrives amongst the highest peaks in the world.
  • KAILASH MANSAROVAR YATRA BY OVERLAND - 14 DAYS
    KAILASH MANSAROVAR YATRA BY OVERLAND - 14 DAYS
    Mt. Kailash (6714m) is the most sacred mountain in Asia.
  • KAILASH YATRA BY HELICOPTER VIA NEPALGUNJ/SIMIKOT/HILSA/TAKLAKOT - 11 DAYS
    KAILASH YATRA BY HELICOPTER VIA NEPALGUNJ/SIMIKOT/HILSA/TAKLAKOT - 11 DAYS
    Mt. Kailash, the sacred mountain and the abode of the Hindu god Shiva is one of the world's greatest pilgrimage destinations especially for Hindus, Buddhist, Jains and others.
  • MUKTINATH TOUR BY LAND/FLIGHT
    MUKTINATH TOUR BY LAND/FLIGHT
    Muktinath is one of the most ancient Hindu temples of God Vishnu.

The first meeting of Joint Working Group (JWG) on tourism between Nepal and India is starting in New Delhi, India from Thursday.

A 12-member delegation led by Joint Secretary Umakanta Parajuli left for the Indian capital of Wednesday to attend the meeting. Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation had formed the 12-member team last week to represent Nepal in the JWG meeting. Along with Parajuli, Tulsi Prasad Gautam, director general of Department of Tourism; Nandini Lahe Thapa, officiating CEO of Nepal Tourism Board; Shreejana Rana, tourism convener of Nepal India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NICCI); Ramesh Dhamala, president of Trekking Agencies´ Association of Nepal (TAAN); DB Limbu, president of Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents (NATTA), a representative from Indian Embassy in Kathmandu and five government officials are in the team.

According to Parajuli, JWG will oversee implementation of agreements related to tourism sector that are included in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that Nepal and India signed on the sidelines of the 18th SAARC Summit in Kathmandu in November. “In the meeting, we will discuss how Nepal and India can benefit from each others. Similarly, we will also explore the possibility of launching joint tourism promotional campaigns,” he added.

According to officials, Nepal will focus on joint promotion of the Buddhist Circuit (Lumbini-Boddgaya-Sarnath-Kushinagar), facilitate banking system for travelers, human resource development, and promoting cities in Nepal and India with historical and religious similarities as sister cities, among others.

The MoU, among others, aims to expand bilateral cooperation in tourism sector, facilitate exchange of information and data related to tourism, encourage cooperation between tourism stakeholders, and establish exchange program for cooperation in human resources development. Similarly, it aims to increase investment in tourism and hospitality sector, exchange of experience in the areas of promotion, marketing, destination development and management, and promote sustainable tourism, among others. The meeting of JWG will take place every two years. According to NICCI, JWG will also work to simplify procedures and policies for third-party payment collections as well as transfers between India and Nepal and create a Nepal-India Tourism Forum for discussing bilateral tourism issues. JWG will also work toward holding B2B mart for international travel operators to jointly promote tourism attractions in both the countries and explore the possibility of launching joint promotional campaigns in the international market. TAAN President Dhamala said it is a necessity to jointly promote Nepal and India as both countries have many similarities. “Tourism industry in Nepal can take huge benefit from the joint promotion campaigns as this will help in bring not only Indians but also others tourists visiting India to Nepal,” said Dhamala.

Source: Republica