GLIMPSE OF NEPAL
Cradled amongst the highest mountains in the world  -Himalayan Sangria-la, Nepal is a land of fascination, a place where ancient history, superb scenery, colourful cultures and people merge into one. Birth place of ‘Buddha’, Nepal is normally ‘home of gods’. Number of harmonious religions mingled into a complex blend which gives Nepal its special diversity of religion, culture and way of life. In fact, while many believe that Nepal is the best destination for adventures particularly for trekking in the Himalayas there is indeed a whole lot more!Where else on earth does one get to tour ancient cities in the mediaeval era and be surrounded by the finest woodcarvings and best sculptures as part of the many temples, monaste-ries, and courtyards which date back to the 5th century?!!
Besides, in the same destination, one can take a mountain flight to catch sight of the majestic Mt. Everest; take off in a hot air balloon and rise gently over the red- tiled houses, temples and stupas to have a panoramic view of the World’s highest mountain range; enjoy champagne breakfast in the highest hotel in the world with Mt. Everest in close- up view; ride on the elephants to look for tigers, rhinos and more at a jungle safari in one of the many national parks; experience top quality white- water rafting; go pony trekking along narrow mountain paths; take an easy day’s trek to see the most magnificent sun sets over snow capped mountains; spend a night out in one of the four international casinos; go shopping for real works of art; walk around a bustling city; watch the most unforgettable sunrise in one of the many mountain resorts; try a Tibetan or Nepalese theme dinner in one of the ancient city squares surrounded by stupas and ancient monuments; enjoy home cooked Newari food and the traditional cultural dances in one of the oldest local restaurants; or take a picnic lunch by lake- side in a park or in a local village.
Though Nepal’s incentive and convention business is in its infancy stage, it’s enormous potential with it’s improved facilities has definitely put Nepal in the forefront to compete with any other successful incentive destination in the world !!
Area: 147,181 sq. km
Geography: Situated between China in the north and India in the South
Capital: Kathmandu
Population: 27 million
Time: 5 hours and 45 minutes ahead the GMT
Language: Nepali is the national language. However, travel trade people
understand and speak English as well.
Political System: Federal Republic.
Religion: Nepal enjoys being multi religious kingdom in the world. There
are harmonious blend in Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam and other
religions.
More Information
Banks:
Banks are open between 09:00 A.M. to 3:00 p.m, Monday to Friday.
Customs Formalities:
Passengers arriving without any dutiable goods can pass through the Green Channel. Dutiable goods have to be declared at the Red Channel. It is illegal to export goods over a 100 years old. The Department of Archeology has to certify for export any metal statues, sacred paintings and similar objects before being taken out of the country.
Airport Tax:
An Airport tax of Rs. 770 + 565 tourism service charge per passenger is levied on departure to SAARC (South Asian) Countries and Rs. 1100 + 565 tourism service charge to other international destinations. Those flying within Nepal are required to pay Rs. 165 as the airport tax.
Currency and Foreign Exchange:
The unit of the Nepalese Currency is Rupee. One Nepali Rupee is made up of 100 paisa. Nepali Rupee notes come in Rs. 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 25, 50, 100, 500 and 1,000. Coins come in paisa 5, 10, 25, 50 Rs. 1 , 2, 5 denominations.
Mountaineering and Rafting:
To scale any of the mountain peaks in Nepal or to raft the Himalayan rivers, climbing/rafting permits are needed which can be obtained from the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Mountaineering Section. However, climbing permit for trekking peaks can be obtained from Nepal Mountaineering Association.
Trekking Permit:
Exciting News for Trekkers & Adventure lovers!!!
Trekking permit is not essential for the general trekking areas such as the Everest, the Annapurna and the Langtang effective from July 17, 1999. Likewise, rafting permit has also been revoked effective from the same date. However, entry fees in the National Parks (Rs 1000 / US$14) and Conservation Areas (Rs 2000 US$30) remain unchanged. Other than above trekking area, any foreigner intending to trek in any part of Nepal has to obtain a trekking permit from the Department of Immigration through your agent. Trekking is permitted only in the areas specified by the Department of Immigration.
Paying
Foreign visitors other than the Indian nationals are required to pay their hotel bills and air tickets in foreign currency.
Some hints regarding religious matters:
Visitors to Hindu temple or Buddhist shrine are expected to be un shoed as a mark of respect. In fact, a pair of open sandals is more convenient and comfortable while visiting the temples and stupas. In some of the temples, entrance may be prohibited for the non-Hindus. Leather articles are prohibited inside the temple precinct. It is better not to touch offerings or persons when they are on way to shrines. Beef is strictly prohibited among the Hindus. No female animal is killed for food. Walking around temple or Stupa is traditionally done clockwise. Generally, temples, Stupas and monuments are permitted to be photographed but it is better to seek permission first.
Social Outlooks: The Nepalese people are friendly and hospitable by nature and the tourists in general will have no difficulty in adjustment ; Since the majority of our people live in rural areas, they have a simple and traditional outlook on life.
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