Nepal is one of the richest countries in the world in terms of bio-diversity due to its unique geographical position and altitudinal variation. Mt. Everest and Lumbini (birth place of Lord Buddha) are not only two things a tourist should be aware of. The elevation of the country range from 60 meters sea levels to the highest point on earth 8848 meters all within the distance of 150 km resulting into the climatic conditions from sub tropical to arctic. The capital Kathmandu is surrounded by hills range from 1500 meters to 2800 meters in height. It is embedded like a jewel among endless rugged mountains. A number of rivers drain towards the centre of the valley and join the holy Bagmati river, which then flows south through the Chobar gorge to finally reach the Ganges. Geologists have confirmed ancient myths that claim the valley once lay under water

The Himalayan country of Nepal from the pulsating capital Kathmandu to cool green hills, magnificent mountains and sharing open boarder with India. The country offers amazing varieties of scenery and atmosphere. There is much to interest for the travelers in Nepal like history, culture, retreats, nightlife, wildlife and arts. The air and the bus extensive and very efficient networks make traveling very easy in Nepal. For most visitors to Nepal, the Kathmandu valley is their arrival points and the epicenter of their visit. This small mountain sheltered valley is the historical centre of Nepal, the place where kingdom rose and fell, palaces and temples were built, destroyed and rebuilt and Nepalese art and culture were developed and refined.

Climate

Climatic factors are very important in planning when to visit Nepal. The Kathmandu valley has a temperate climate that is pleasant most of the year. Snow is almost unheard of, although there are frosts. Between October and March it can become quite cold at night 0c and the days become short, although it is sunny and warm between mid morning and mid afternoon say 20c visibility is good from October to early February. By April things start to heat up and there are often storms in the afternoon. The real heat and humidity coincide with the monsoon, which usually commences in mid-June. Expect day time temperature around the low to mid-30c and night time temperature between 15c and 20c.

Visas and documents

Visas are required by most nationalities (Indians are an exceptional) and they are available from embassy and consulate abroad, at the border with India or on arrival at Kathmandu’s only one international airport named Tribhuwan International airport (TIA). There are que at the immigration counter at Tribhuwan International airport at Kathmandu, so it is preferable to get your visa before arrival. Visas can be extended with certain pay. You make sure that you have your passport size photograph with you.

When to go to Nepal

Some parts of Nepal are governed by the monsoon patterns, with temperature varying according to elevation. Most visitors want good mountain visibility, but don’t forget about festivals and wildlife. Around half of the tourists visit in Nepal in the autumn (late September to late November). The weather is clear and dry, and temperatures are not too cold in high country, nor too hot in Terai. With the pollution and dust washed away by the monsoon rains, the mountains are at their most visible, making this the most popular time for trekking. Two major festivals Dashain and Tihar also fall during this season.

short: Winter (December and January) and Spring (Feb to mid April)

Where to sit?

If you want to see the magnificent Himalayas as you fly into Kathmandu you must sit on the correct side. Flying in from East – Bangkok, Kolkota, Hongkong, Rangoon or Singapore – you want the right side. Flying in from the west New Delhi or Varanasi – you want the left side.

Land:

There are four main entry points into Nepal by land: three from India and one from Tibet.

Facts about Nepal

->Occupying only 0.1% of the Earth.

->2% of all the flowers on Earth.

->8% of the world population of birds more than 848 species.

->4% of Mammals on Earth.

->11 of world’s 15 families of butterflies.

->600 indigenous plant families.

->319 species of exotic orchids.

Tourism and Nepal

Tourism industry in the country plays a crucial role in the national economy and will always remain an important sector. The unique natural and cultural heritages along with the scenic splendor of the mountainous country enchant and attract visitors from all over the world.

Long tourism development efforts have shown that despite great potentials for tourism industries in the country, Small and medium sized accommodation providers – SMAPs and the local people have not been able to share the benefits of tourism. It has been great hope of the people from selected locations by the project funded by European Union and implemented by Hilfswerk Austria (HWA) covering the area where training and skill development activities and participatory involvement of local people would uplift the current situation.