RAMPUR PALPA: 2013

Mount Everest

The Everest region is located in the northeast of Nepal. The 10-day walk through the middle hills of Solu to the higher altitudes of Khumbu to the base of Sagarmatha, or Mt. Everest, the world’s highest peak, is an opportunity to observe

and participate in the daily life of the legendary Sherpa people. The prime attraction – the 8,848 m peak of Mt. Everest – lies in Sagarmatha National Park, which is also home to two other eight thousanders – Lhotse and Cho Oyu – besides several other prominent peaks above 6,000 m.

Designated as a World Heritage Site in 1979, much of the 1,148 sq. km park lies above 3,000 m. The park is composed of rugged terrain with deep gorges, glaciers and huge rocks. The vegetation in the park changes from pine, hemlock, fir, juniper, birch, rhododendron and shrubs to alpine plants and then to bare rock and snow. It is home to the ghoral, tahr, serow and musk deer as well as the impeyan pheasant, blood pheasant, red-billed chough and the yellow-billed chough.

The trail to Everest also begins at Lukla, the airport at 2,850 m. The trail climbs up the Dudhkoshi River Valley, and the following day brings you to the legendary Sherpa village of Namche Bazaar in the Khumbu (3,500 m), which is the staging point for expeditions to Everest and other peaks in the area. Above Namche lie the traditional villages Khunde and Khumjung. Khumjung which is the largest village in the Khumbu lies at the foot of the sacred peak Khumbila. The Khunde Hospital, maintained by Himalayan Trust, and Khumjung School, the original Hillary School set up in 1960, lie here.

of Across the canyon from Khunde, perched on a high ridge, is the Tengboche Monastery, the leading Buddhist center in the Khumbu. The monastery rests amid stunning views of Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam. Pines, azaleas and colorful mountain rhododendrons ring the attractive monastery. There are rest houses, lodges and camping sites here.From Tengboche you can continue on to Pheriche, Kala Pattar and the hamlet of Gorakshep. From here, the site of Everest Base Camp is easily accessible, as is the summit of Kala Pattar (5,545 m), from which much of Mt. Everest is clearly visible. However, you must take time to properly acclimatize as the altitude gains are rapid.

Source: http://welcomenepal.com/promotional/tourist-destination/everest-region-2/

Rafting in Nepal

When it comes to white water rafting and kayaking, Nepal has the best on offer in the world. Nepal has rivers to cover every level of white water activity after the monsoon offers the most adrenaline packed rivers to all adventure seekers. This mountainous country spoils the adventure for choice when it comes to white water. Not only is rafting a great action adventure holiday, but it’s a great way to discover the beauty of Nepal. The rivers all originate high up in the Himalaya and snake there way downwards through some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. Not only do you get to see first hand Nepal’s nature but also you get to experience her ancient and unique culture as you raft through remote villages and farm land. Nepal’s selection of rivers covers a range of grades which accommodate everything from the ultimate adrenaline adventure, an action packed river ride to a fun family holiday.

Some of the remote rivers offer long rafting trips which incorporate some trekking. These kinds of trips are truly trips of a life time as you have to bring with you everything you need and be totally self reliant and sufficient. These rivers churn out their courses through some of the most pristine wilderness and isolated villages that Nepal has to offer.

Rafting is not the only option here. All of Nepal’s rives can be kayaked. The range of rivers in Nepal covers experienced to novice kayakers. For the first time kayaker, you can take time out and do a clinic to learn kayaking. These clinics cover everything form safety and technique to river craft. Can you imagine a better way to discover Nepal than by floating down its majestic rivers in your own kayak? What better way to get up close and personal with this stunning country?

In Nepal you will truly find some of the world’s most outstanding river journeys. As rafting and kayaking is an activity that needs to be arranged through our company, why not let Sarita Holidays Travels & Tours organize your trip for you? We guarantee a fun and adventure packed trip guided by the highest standard guides with the best equipment.

Latest Photo of Rampur Palpa

Immigration officials caught on camera accepting bribe

The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority on Tuesday arrested five Immigration officials as they were caught on camera accepting bribe.

The anti-graft body arrested the officials at the Immigration Department with video footage showing the officials taking bribe from the service seekers.

Section Officers Surya Prasad Dahal and Devarsi Sapkota, non-gazette officers Pradip Prasad Lamichhane and Bishwa Raj Kharel and office assistant Jaya Narayan Napit have been arrested.

Norway's Prime Minister works as secret taxi driver - video

IMAGINE jumping in a taxi and finding the Prime Minister at the wheel. This is what several Norwegians discovered when their country's leader, Jens Stoltenberg, went undercover as a taxi driver.

In a bid to find out the real concerns of voters ahead of Norway's general election on 9 September, Stoltenberg wore an Oslo Taxi uniform for an afternoon and picked up passengers in a black Mercedes.

"It's important for me to hear what people really think. If there's one place where people say what they think, it's in the taxi," Stoltenberg said in a video posted on YouTube.

The stunt, which was carried out in June, was filmed by a hidden camera to record reactions from the passengers, including one who remarked: "From this angle, you really look like the Prime Minister."

Passengers, who were not charged for their journeys, discussed issues ranging from education and oil policy to the state of Stoltenberg's driving skills.

One passenger said the "driving is not exactly the best I've seen" after the Prime Minister, who had not driven in eight years, brought the automatic car to a sudden halt.

Asked by the tabloid Verdens Gang if he would become a taxi driver if he lost the elections, Stoltenberg said: "I think that the country and Norwegian taxi passengers are better served if I were a Prime Minister and not a taxi driver."

According to the latest opinion polls, Stoltenberg's ruling centre-left coalition appears likely to lose. But he did steer one voter in his party's direction. While climbing out of the taxi, an elderly male passenger told him: "This has been nice ... I will vote Labour Party."

10 Highest Mountains in the world

The 'Roof of the World' from Everest trail, Khumbu Valley.

Rara Lake: Heaven on Earth is not just a cliche, after Rara

Kathmandu Valley

Kathmandu Valley comprises the three ancient cities of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur, which were once independent states ruled by the Malla kings from the 12^th to the 18^th centuries. The three cities house seven UNESCO World Heritage shrines which are together listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Culture). The valley is also home to hundreds of other exquisite monuments, sculptures, artistic temples and magnificent art – reminders of the golden era in Nepal’s architecture.

Legend has it that the valley was was once a primordial lake ringed by verdant mountains. In this pristine lake lived giant serpents until one fine day, saint Manjushree, the Bodhisatva, raised a mighty sword and in one fell swoop, cut open the side of a mountain at a place now known as Chobar. The voluminous waters of the lake gushed out, leaving behind a fertile valley capable of supporting large urban settlements over the millennia. The Gopala and Kirati dynasties were the earliest rulers here followed by the Licchavi (300-879 A.D.), under whom flourished trade and crafts.

But the valley’s remarkable cities with their ornate palaces, the superbly crafted pagodas and the monumental stupas are testimony of the artistic genius of the Newar craftsmen, the original inhabitants of the valley, whose skills were championed by the Malla kings and appreciated even by the Mongol rulers of 18^th century China.

source http://welcomenepal.com/promotional/tourist-destination/around-kathmandu/

nepali Culture

Add caption

Customs and traditions differ from one part of Nepal to another. A conglomeration lies in capital city Kathmandu where cultures are blending to form a national identity. Kathmandu Valley has served as the country’s cultural metropolis since the unification of Nepal in the 18^th Century.A prominent factor in a Nepali’s everyday life is religion. Adding color to the lives of Nepalis are festivals the year round which they celebrate with much pomp and joy. Food plays an important role in the celebration of these festivals.

Religion:

Nepal was declared a secular country by the Parliament on May 18, 2006. Religions practiced in Nepal are: Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, Jainism, Sikhism, Bon, ancestor worship and animism. The majority of Nepalis are either Hindus or Buddhism. The two have co-existed in harmony through centuries.

Buddha is widely worshipped by both Buddhists and Hindus of Nepal. The five Dhyani Buddhas; Vairochana, Akshobhaya, Rathasambhava, Amitabha and Amoghasiddhi, represent the five basic elements: earth, fire, water, air and ether. Buddhist philosophy conceives these deities to be the manifestations of Sunya or absolute void. Mahakaala and Bajrayogini are Vajrayana Buddhist deities worshipped by Hindus as well.

Hindu Nepalis worship the ancient Vedic gods. Bramha the Creator, Vishnu the Preserver and Shiva the Destroyer, are worshipped as the Supreme Hindu Trinity. People pray to the Shiva Linga or the phallic symbol of Lord Shiva in most Shiva temples. Shakti, the dynamic element in the female counterpart of Shiva, is highly revered and feared. Mahadevi, Mahakali, Bhagabati, Ishwari are some of the names given. Kumari, the Virgin Goddess, also represents Shakti.Other popular deities are Ganesh for luck, Saraswati for knowledge, Lakshmi for wealth and Hanuman for protection. Krishna, believed to be the human incarnation of Lord Vishnu is also worshipped widely. Hindu holy scripts Bhagawat Gita, Ramayan and Mahabharat are widely read in Nepal. Vedas, Upanishads and other holy scriptures are read by well learned Brahmin Pundits during special occasions.

Customs:

The diversity in Nepal in terms of ethnicity again makes room for various sets of customs. Most of these customs go back to the Hindu, Buddhist or other religious traditions. Among them, the rules of marriage are particularly interesting. Traditional marriages call for deals arranged by parents after the boy or girl come of age.

Nepalis do not eat beef. There are several reasons for this, one being that the Hindus worship cow. Cow is also the national animal of Nepal. Another interesting concept among Nepalis is division of pure and impure. “Jutho” referring to food or material touched by another’s mouth directly or indirectly, is considered impure by Nepalis. Nepalis consider cow dung to be pure for cleansing purposes. During menstruation women are considered impure and hence, are kept in seclusion until their fourth day purification bath.Nepal is a patriarchal society. Men usually go out to work while women are homemakers. However, in cities, roles can differ. Most Nepalis abide by the caste system in living habits and marriage. Rural Nepal is mostly agrarian, while some aspects of urban life carry glitz and glamour of the ultra-modern world.

Food:

Nepal does not have a distinct cooking style. However, food habits differ depending on the region. Nepali food has been influenced by Indian and Tibetan styles of cooking. Authentic Nepali taste is found in Newari and Thakai cuisines. Most Nepalis do not use cutlery but eat with their right hand.The regular Nepali meal is dal (lentil soup), bhat (boiled rice) and tarkari (curried vegetables), often accompanied by achar (pickle). Curried meat is very popular, but is saved for special occasions, as it is relatively more expensive. Momos (steamed or fried dumplings) deserve a mention as one of the most popular snack among Nepalis. Rotis (flat bread) and dhedo (boiled flour) also make meals in some homes.

Source http://welcomenepal.com/promotional/know-nepal/culture/

Plants in Nepal

Of the total number of species found globally, Nepal possesses 2.80 percent plants. Record from 2006 shows that Nepal has 6,391 flowering plant species, representing 1,590 genera and 231 families. Nepal’s share of flowering plant species is 2.76 percent of the global total compared to earlier records of 2.36 percent. Nepal’s share of pteriodophytes is 5.15 percent compared to earlier records of 4.45 percent.

There are 2,532 species of vascular plants represented by 1,034 genera and 199 families in the protected sites. Some 130 endemic species are found in the protected sites.

For ecology and vegetation purpose Nepal could be divided into four floristic regions i.e.

(a) western

(b) north-western

(d) eastern, and bio-climatically these are broken down into twenty regions from humid tropical climate to the arid, alpine regions.

There are 399 endemic flowering plants in Nepal of which about 63 percent are from the high mountains, 38 percent from the mid hills, and only 5 percent from the Terai and Siwaliks. Similarly, the central region contains 66 percent of the total endemic species followed by 32 percent in the western and 29 percent in the eastern regions.

Medicinal Plants:

The Himalayas are famous for medicinal plants and have even been mentioned in the Aurveda. Many of the herbs and plants found in the Himlayas are used in traditional healing systems like Ayurvedic, Homoeopathic, Amchi etc. Some of these plants are even used for allopathic medicine. Medicinal plants are abundantly found in: the Terai region of Nawalparasi, Chitwan, Bardia, Dhanusha, mid hill region of Makhwanpur, Syangja, Kaski, Lamgjung, Dolakha, Parvat, Ilam, Ramechhap, Nuwakot, and the Himalayan region of Dolpa, Mugu, Humla, Jumla, Manang, Mustang and Solukhumbu.

Orchids:

In ancient Rome, Theophrastus, a student of Plato, was intrigued by the sight of a plant with a pair of roots. Orchis was the name he gave them, the Greek word for testicles. Worldwide, there are some 500 to 600 genera and some 20,000 to 35,000 names, the largest of all plant families, and out of this, Nepal has 57 genera (27 Terrestrials and 30 Epiphytic) with a few Lithophytes.Nepal is endowed with an incredible variety of orchids scattered across the country. Dedrobium is the largest species, followed by Habenaria and Bulbophyllum. Anthogonium, Hemipilia and Lusia are some of the other varieties amongst the nearly two dozen single species families.

Source:-http://welcomenepal.com/promotional/know-nepal/plants/

Nepali Wildlife

Of the total number of species found globally, 3.96 percent mammals, 3.72 percent butterflies and 8.9 percent of birds. Wildlife of Nepal is officially classified into two main categories: common and protected. The common category lists such species as common leopard, spotted deer, Himalayan tahr, blue sheep and others. These species are commonly seen in the wild. The protected species include 26 mammals, nine birds and three reptiles. These rare animals are confined to their prime habitats.

Please click Protected Species for details. The endemic fauna are: Himalayan field mouse, spiny babbler, Nepali kalij, 14 herpetofauna, and six types of fishes.

Mammals:

Nepal has 185 species of mammals found in various parts of the country. Found in Nepal’s dense Terai jungles are exotic animals like the Asiatic elephant, the one-horned rhinoceros, the Royal Bengal tiger among others. Also found here are the leopard, monkey, langur, hyena, jackal, wild boar, antelope, wild cat, wolf,

sloth bear, chital or spotted deer and barking deer. Wild buffalo locally called “Arna” is found in the Koshi

Tappu region. The western Terai jungles of Suklaphanta is home of the of swamp deer, while the endangered blackbucks are found in the Bardia region. Nepal Government has made an effort to preserve blackbucks by declaring an area of 15.95 sq. km. in Bardia as Blackbuck Conservation Area.

Nepal even has its own variety of dolphins found in the fresh waters of Narayani and Karnali rivers. The Himalayan region is also home to the elusive snow leopard and the red panda. Red panda, a rare sight because of its shy nature, may be found from Langtang region to Kanchenjunga region. Other mammals that live in high altitude areas are yak, blue sheep, Himalayan tahr and musk deer. While otters are found in the Rara region north west, the Dhorpatan hunting grounds is home of the blue sheep and Himalayan tahr.

Reptiles:

Nepal has two indigenous species of crocodile: the fish eating gharial with the long narrow snout and the marsh mugger which is omnivorous, eating anything it can catch. A very successful breeding project has brought the gharial back from extinction. Some of the snakes found in Nepal are: cobras, kraits, vipers and the Indian python. Other reptiles found in the country are turtles and monitor lizards. Some of these reptiles can be seen in the Chitwan National Park and Bardia National Park.

Birds:

Nepal has more than 850 recorded species of birds. Amazingly, half of these birds can be seen in and around the Kathmandu valley alone. The hills around the valley especially Nagarjun, Godavari and Phulchowki are popular birding areas. Phulchowki at 2,760 m boasts about 90 bird species including the endemic spiny babbler, which was thought to be extinct until it was spotted in Nepal. Another rare species of bird, the red-headed trogan, was also sighted here in April 2000.

National parks like Chitwan and Bardia harbor a wide variety of birds too. In Chitwan, endangered vultures are being protected from contaminated food by establishing “Vulture Restaurant” which feeds them safe carcasses. The Koshi Tappu region is home to a large species of resident and migratory birds. It has about 26 varieties of ducks alone. About 485 species have been sighted here, including black ibis, honey kites, ospreys, black headed orioles, peregrine falcon, partridges, ruddy shelduck, storks, vultures and eagles among others.In the higher Himalayan region are found different species of the raptors and birds of prey. Nepal’s national bird, the Danphe or impeyen pheasant, is also found in the Himalayan region. A rare bird known as jerdon’s baza was sighted in Nepal. Over the past few years a conservation group has worked specifically in the Lumbini area to conserve the sarus crane.

For more information about Nepal’s wildlife,

Please visit: http://www.dnpwc.gov.np/

(official web site of the Department of National Parks & Wildlife Conservation, Ministry of Forests & Soil Conservation).

Source:- http://welcomenepal.com/promotional/know-nepal/wildlife/

Nepali Geography

Nepal is located in South Asia between China in the north and India in the south, east and west. While the total land area is 147,181 sq. km including water area of the country that is 3,830 sq. km. The geographical coordinates are 28°00′N 84°00′E. Nepal falls in the temperate zone north of the Tropic of Cancer.Nepal’s ecological zones run east to west about 800 km along its Himalayan axis, 150 to 250 km north to south, and is vertically intersected by the river systems. The country can be divided into three main geographical regions: Himalayan region, mid hill region and Terai region. The highest point in the country is Mt. Everest (8,848 m) while the lowest point is in the Terai plains of Kechana Kalan in Jhapa (60 m).
The Terai region, with width of ranging 26 to 32 km and altitude ranging from 60 -305 m, occupies about 17 percent of total land area of the country. Kechana Kalan, the lowest point of the country with an altitude of 60 m, lies in Jhapa district of the eastern Terai.The southern lowland Terai continues to the Bhabar belt covered with the Char Kose Jhadi forests known for rich wildlife. Further north, the Siwalik zone (700 – 1,500 m) and the Mahabharat range (1,500 – 2,700 m) give way to the Duns (valleys), such as Trijuga, Sindhuli, Chitwan, Dang and Surkhet. The Midlands (600 – 3,500 m), north of the Mahabharat range is where the two beautiful valleys of Kathmandu and Pokhara lie covered in terraced rice fields, and surrounded by forested watersheds.
The Himalayas (above 3,000 m) comprises mountains, alpine pastures and temperate forests limited by the tree-line (4,000 m) and snow line (5,500 m). Eight of the 14 eight-thousanders of the world lie in Nepal: Sagarmatha or Mount Everest (8,848 m), Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Makalu (8,463 m), Cho Oyu (8,201m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Manaslu (8,163 m) and Annapurna (8,091 m). The inner Himalayan valley (above 3,600 m) such as Mustang and Dolpa are cold deserts sharing topographical characteristics with the Tibetan plateau.Nepal holds the so called “waters towers of South Asia” with its 6,000 rivers which are snow-fed or dependent on rain. The perennial rivers include Mahakali, Karnali, Narayani and Koshi rivers originating in the Himalayas. Medium-sized rivers like Babai, West Rapti, Bagmati, Kamla, Kankai and Mechi originate in the Midlands and Mahabharat range. A large number of seasonal streams, mostly originating in Siwaliks, flow across the Terai.
Of 163 wetlands documented, the nine globally recognized Ramsar sites are: Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Beeshazarital (Chitwan), Jagdishpur Reservoir (Kapilvastu) Ghodaghodi Tal (Kailali) in the Terai, and Gokyo (Solukhumbu), Phoksundo (Dolpa), Rara (Mugu) and Mai Pokhari (Ilam) in the mountain region.There are more than 30 natural caves in the country out of which only a few are accessible by road. Maratika Cave (also known as Haleshi) is a pilgrimage site associated with Buddhism and Hinduism. Siddha Cave is near Bimalnagar along the Kathmandu-Pokhara highway. Pokhara is also known for caves namely Bats’ shed, Batulechar, Gupteswar, Patale Chhango. The numerous caves around Lo Manthang in Mustang include Luri and Tashi Kabum which house ancient murals and chhortens dating back to the 13^th century.

Nepali History

Records mention the Gopalas and Mahishapalas believed to have been the earliest rulers with their capital at Matatirtha, the south-west corner of the Kathmandu Valley. From the 7^th or 8^th Century B.C. the Kirantis are said to have ruled the valley. Their famous King Yalumber is even mentioned in the epic, ‘Mahabharat’. Around 300 A.D. the Lichhavis arrived from northern India and overthrew the Kirantis. One of the legacies of the Lichhavis is the Changu Narayan Temple near Bhaktapur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Culture), which dates back to the 5^th Century. In the early 7^th Century, Amshuvarma, the first Thakuri king took over the throne from his father-in-law who was a Lichhavi. He married off his daughter Bhrikuti to the famous Tibetan King Tsong Tsen Gampo thus establishing good relations with Tibet. The Lichhavis brought art and architecture to the valley but the golden age of creativity arrived in 1200 A.D with the Mallas.
During their 550 year rule, the Mallas built numerous temples and splendid palaces with picturesque squares. It was also during their rule that society and the cities became well organized; religious festivals were introduced and literature, music and art were encouraged. After the death of Yaksha Malla, the valley was divided into three kingdoms: Kathmandu (Kantipur), Bhaktapur (Bhadgaon) and Patan (Lalitpur). Around this time, the Nepal as we know it today was divided into about 46 independent principalities. One among these was the kingdom of Gorkha with a Shah ruler. Much of Kathmandu Valley’s history around this time was recorded by Capuchin friars who lived in the valley on their way in and out of Tibet.
An ambitious Gorkha King named Prithvi Narayan Shah embarked on a conquering mission that led to the defeat of all the kingdoms in the valley (including Kirtipur which was an independent state) by 1769. Instead of annexing the newly acquired states to his kingdom of Gorkha, Prithvi Narayan decided to move his capital to Kathmandu establishing the Shah dynasty which ruled unified Nepal from 1769 to 2008.
The history of the Gorkha state goes back to 1559 when Dravya Shah established a kingdom in an area chiefly inhabited by Magars. During the 17^th and early 18^thcenturies, Gorkha continued a slow expansion, conquering various states while forging alliances with others. Prithvi Narayan dedicated himself at an early age to the conquest of the Kathmandu Valley. Recognizing the threat of the British Raj in India, he dismissed European missionaries from the country and for more than a century, Nepal remained in isolation.
During the mid-19^th Century Jung Bahadur Rana became Nepal’s first prime minister to wield absolute power relegating the Shah king to mere figureheads. He started a hereditary reign of the Rana Prime Ministers that lasted for 104 years. The Ranas were overthrown in a democracy movement of the early 1950s with support from the-then monarch of Nepal, King Tribhuvan. Soon after the overthrow of the Ranas, King Tribhuvan was reinstated as the Head of the State. In early 1959, Tribhuvan’s son King Mahendra issued a new constitution, and the first democratic elections for a national assembly were held. The Nepali Congress Party was victorious and their leader, Bishweshwar Prasad Koirala formed a government and served as prime minister. But by 1960, King Mahendra had changed his mind and dissolved Parliament, dismissing the first democratic government.
After many years of struggle when the political parties were banned, they finally mustered enough courage to start a People’s Movement in 1990. Paving way for democracy, the then-King Birendra accepted constitutional reforms and established a multiparty parliament with King as the Head of State and an executive Prime Minister. In May 1991, Nepal held its first parliamentary elections. In February 1996, the Maoist parties declared People’s War against monarchy and the elected government.
Then on 1^st June 2001, a horrific tragedy wiped out the entire royal family including King Birendra and Queen Aishwarya with many of their closest relatives. With only King Birendra’s brother, Gyanendra and his family surviving, he was crowned the king. King Gyanendra abided by the elected government for some time and then dismissed the elected Parliament to wield absolute power.In April 2006, another People’s Movement was launched jointly by the democratic parties focusing most energy in Kathmandu which led to a 19-day curfew. Eventually, King Gyanendra relinquished his power and reinstated the Parliament.On November 21, 2006, Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala and Maoist chairman Prachanda signed the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) 2006, committing to democracy and peace for the progress of the country and people. A Constituent Assembly election was held on April 10, 2008. On May 28,2008, the newly elected Constituent Assembly declared Nepal a Federal Democratic Republic, abolishing the 240 year-old monarchy. Nepal today has a President as Head of State and a Prime Minister heading the Government.

Source:http://welcomenepal.com/promotional/know-nepal/nepals-history/

Nepali Nature

Nepal’s 20 protected areas cover 23.23 percent of its land. Its 10 national parks, three wildlife reserves, six conservations areas and one hunting reserve cover various geographical locations from the sub-tropical Terai jungles to the arctic Himalayan region. Two of Nepal’s natural areas are listed by UNESCO as Natural World Heritage Sites. They are: Chitwan National Park and Sagarmatha National Park.Comprising only 0.1 percent of the total land area on a global scale, Nepal possesses a disproportionately rich biodiversity. Of the total number of species found globally, Nepal possesses 2.80 percent plants, 3.96 percent mammals, 3.72 percent butterflies and 8.9 percent of birds. Of 6,391 species of flowering plants recorded in Nepal, 399 are endemic. Among the 399 endemic flowering plants in Nepal, 63 percent are from the high mountains, 38 percent from the mid hills, and 5 percent from the Terai and Siwaliks. Similarly, the central region contains 66 percent of the total endemic species followed by western (32 percent) and eastern regions (29 percent).

Nepal’s wildlife belong to the Palaearctic and Indo-Malayan realms. The 136 ecosystems is confined to 11 bio-climatic zones and 9 eco-regions that are defined by ecological features, climate and plant and animal communities. The endemic fauna are: Himalayan field mouse, spiny babbler, Nepali kalij, 14 herpetofauna, and six types of fishes. Wildlife also include like endangered animals like the Royal Bengal tiger and the one-horned rhinoceros. Nepal is home 850 species of birds and more than half of these are found in the Kathmandu Valley.The natural resources of Nepal are water, hydropower, scenic beauty, quartz, timber, lignite, copper, cobalt and iron ore. Vast expanse of land in the country is used for agriculture with about 16 percent of total arable land.

Nepali Climate

Climatic conditions of Nepal vary from one place to another in accordance with the geographical features. In the north summers are cool and winters severe, while in south summers are tropical and winters are mild. Nepal has namely five major seasons: spring, summer, monsoon, autumn and winter.An average temperature drop of 6°C occurs for every 1,000 m gain in altitude. In the Terai, summer temperatures exceed 37° C and higher in some areas, winter temperatures range from 7°C to 23°C in the Terai. In mountainous regions, hills and valleys, summers are temperate while winter temperatures can plummet under sub zero. The valley of Kathmandu has a pleasant climate with average summer and winter temperatures of 19°C – 35°C and 2°C – 12°C respectively.

The Himalayas act as a barrier to the cold winds blowing from Central Asia in winter, and forms the northern boundary of the monsoon wind patterns. Eighty percent of the precipitation is received during the monsoon (June-September). Winter rains are more pronounced in the western hills. The average annual rainfall is 1,600 mm, but it varies by eco-climatic zones, such as 3,345 mm in Pokhara and below 300 mm in Mustang.An interesting fact is that there is no seasonal constraint on traveling in and through Nepal. Even in December and January, when winter is at its severest, there are compensating bright sun and brilliant views. As with most of the trekking areas in Nepal, the best time to visit are during spring and autumn. Spring is the time for rhododendrons while the clearest skies are found after the monsoon in October and November. However, Nepal can be visited the whole year round.

Here’s a brief view of the average temperatures and rainfall during peak summer and winter in three most popular tourist areas:

Place	Summer (May, June, July)			Winter (Dec, Jan, Feb)
Place	Max (°C)	Min (°C)	Rain (mm)	Max (°C)	Min (°C)	Rain (mm)
Kathmandu	28.1	19.5	312	19.3	3.0	15.4
Pokhara	29.7	21.3	829.7	20.3	7.7	26.3
Chitwan	33.0	25.3	404.0	24.1	8.3	13.8

Nepali People

The population of Nepal was recorded to be about 26.62 million according to a recent survey done by the Central Bureau of Statistics, Nepal. The population comprises of about a 101 ethnic groups speaking over 92 languages. The distinction in caste and ethnicity is understood more easily with a view of customary layout of the population.Though, there exist numerous dialects, the language of unification is the national language, Nepali. Nepali is the official language of the state, spoken and understood by majority of the population. Multiple ethnic groups have their own mother tongues. English is spoken by many in Government and business offices. It is the mode of education in most private schools of Kathmandu and some other cities.
Northern Himalayan People:
In the northern region of the Himalayas are the Tibetan-speaking groups namely Sherpas, Dolpa-pas, Lopas, Baragaonlis, Manangis. The Sherpas are mainly found in the east, Solu and Khumbu region; the Baragaonlis and Lopas live in the semi-deserted areas of Upper and Lower Mustang in the Tibetan rain-shadow area; the Manangis live in Manang district area; while the Dolpa-pas live in Dolpa district of west Nepal.
Middle Hills and Valley People:
Several ethnic groups live in the middle hills and valleys. Among them are the Magars, Gurungs, Tamangs, Sunuwars, Newars, Thakalis, Chepangs, Brahmins, Chhetris and Thakuris. There are also occupational castes namely: Damai (tailor), Sarki (cobbler), Kami (blacksmith) and Sunar (goldsmiths).
Ethnic Diversity in the Kathmandu Valley:
Kathmandu Valley represents a cultural cauldron of the country, where, people from varied backgrounds have come together to present a melting pot. The natives of the Kathmandu Valley are the Newars. Newari culture is an integration of both Hinduism and Buddhism. The Newars of Kathmandu Valley were traders or farmers by occupation in the old days.
Terai People:
The main ethnic groups in Terai are Tharus, Darai, Kumhal, Majhi and other groups. They speak north Indian dialects like Maithili, Bhojpuri. Owing to the fertile plains of Terai, most inhabitants live on agriculture. There are, however, some occupational castes like Majhi (fisherman), Kumhal (potter) and Danuwar (cart driver).

source:http://welcomenepal.com/promotional/know-nepal/ethnic-mosiac/

In Rampur Palpa

Rampur Palpa (Kaladi Ko pul)

Rampur Palpa ( bejhand)

keladi ko pu ( Rampur Palpa)

palpa rampur bejhand peach

Meri Bassai 30 April 2013 Part 1

If Janga Bahadur was still alive

Lalu Pate Phul Chhaina Paat Matra By Milan Lama & Tika Pun Latest Nepali...

Dherai din pachhi samjhana aayo lokgeet by Milan Lama

Europe Germany | Milan Lama And Samjhana Lamichhane | Latest Nepali Lok ...

Anautho parichha | Tika Pun And Manish Khadka | Latest Nepali Lok Folk A...

Hitko Parani | Puskal Sharma And Laxmi kc | Latest Lok Folk Audio | 2013...

Ranimahal

Ranimahal also popularly known as Tajmahal of Nepal is situated at the bank of Kali Gandaki river.This beautiful and historical palace was built by Rana ruler Khadga Shamsher in the memory of his wife. Ranimahal is 7 KM far from Tansen, Palpa and was built in 1893 AD. It took total 4 years to build the palace at that time.

Shiva ratri In Rampur , Palpa

The Most Mathematical Flag - Numberphile

real nepal

Natural Beauty of Nepal

Montage 2009

My Beautiful Nepal

nepali himalayan

Introduction of Everest Base Camp Trek

Trek: Strenuous
Season: Spring/Autumn
Starting Alt: 2840m
Max Alt: 5560m
A trek which takes you into the heart of the mountains and the culture of the Everest region to the foot of the great peak itself. Commencing in Lukla.
(Airstrip for Everest) you trek up to the Namache bazaar-Sherpa capital. A day is spent here for acclimatization and just soaking up the atmosphere of this bustling village before heading on up through Thyangboche (Visiting the great Monastery) Pheriche, Lobuche village and finally to your highest camp at gorak Shep. This is the jump-climb up to kala Pattar (5545m) for spectacular views of Mt. Everest, and the walk in to Everest base Camp. This really is breathtaking mountain scenery and is well worth the effort of getting there. It is relatively short trek, which will have you standing literally at the foot of the worlds greatest peak.

Route o1: Jiri - Lukla - Namche - Kala Pattar - Everest BC - Lukla - Kathmandu
At the start of Jiri (1900m) this itineraries which leads you to the famous base camp of the Everest has the advantage of making you discover as a preliminary Solu Khumb, before projecting you in an extra ordinary mineral world. Trekking of average difficulty for entrains walkers, 16 days of walk.
Day 01 - 04: Jiri to Junbesi (2675m) One crossed the rivers khimti Khola and Likhu Khola. De Khimti Khola gone up to the collar deurali (2700m), one is now in Sherpa country in the area of Solu. De rather difficult Kinja one day or it will be necessary to climb the collar of Lamjura La (3800m) Descent towards Junbesi.
Day 05 - 09: junbesi / Namche (3446m). Gone up towards the beautiful village of Ringmu, then with the collar of Traksindo to (3071m). Now one penetrates in the valley Dudha Kosi which takes its source in the solid mass of the everst. Increase of Dudh Koshi to the village of Jorsal(The entry of the National park of the Mt, Everest)
Day 10: Day Acclimatization in Namche, the capital of the Sherpa country.
Day 11 - 13: Namche / Lobuche (4930m) Gone up towards Khumjung (3790m) possibility of visiting this very old village situated at the foot of Khumbila, crowned montains which givesits name to the area of Khumbu. Pheriche the last village located at the foot of the terminal moraine of the glacier of Khumbu.
Day 14: rise in Kala pattar (4930m) Seen fantastic on the Everest with ice fall , Nuptse and Lhotse. Return to Lobuche.
Day 15 - 18: Lobuche / walk down towards Lukla
Day 19: Lukla / Kathmandu by flight.

Route 02: Everest Base Camp - Lukla to LuklaM
This is a "Tea house Trek" escorted by a trek guide. We fly both ways to Lukla to and back. We trek from Lukla via Namche through to Khumjung Tengboche monastery, the seat of Sherpa Calture . Amadablam, Thamserku and Tangboche, Kangtega tower over you with Everest, Nuptse and Lhotse to the North.
Day 1:fly Lukla and trek Pakding. We will fly early to the village of Lukla at 9,200 feet. Here we hire porters and trek a short distance to Pakding on the Dudh Kosi river.
Day 2: Pakding to Namche Bazaar(11,300 feet). We enter the park at Jorsale, cross the Bhote Kosi river and then climb steeply to Namche Bazaar. Namche is the main trading center for the Khumbu.
Day 3: Khumjung (12,400 feet) and Khunde. To help with our acclimatization, we will spend a second night in Namche. During our second day here we will go to the Sagarmatha National park where we get our first views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam. After lunch we hike up to Kumjung to see the famous "Yeti" skull and the gompa then to Khunde to see the Hillary Hospital.
Day 4: Namche Bazaar to Thangboche (12,670 feet). An enjoyable walk down to the river at Phunki Thanhka to lunch next to water driven prayer wheels. A steep but short climb takes us to Tengboche Monastery through forests of blue pine, fir and black juniper.
Day 5: Thangboche to Periche(13,780 feet). After an early breakfast, we tour the largest and most important monastery in the region, Thangboche. Following the Imja Khola we go through Pangboche and over a short hill to the small village of Periche.
Day 6: Point 16,571 feet. Dingboche. we spend an an acclimatization day by climbing a spectacular point of rock above Dingboche. For most people, this will be the highest they have been up to this point. There are up close views of Taweche and Ama Dablam. In the distance one can see Island Peak and Makalu, one of the fourteen 8,000 meter peaks on earth of which Everest and Lhotse are members.
Day 7: Periche to Lobuje (16,175 feet) After a short walk we'll climb the moraine of the mighty Khumbu Glacier.
Day 8: Lobuje to Everest Base Camp (17,192 feet) We will get an early start for our trek to Base camp. after about two hours we reach Gorak Shep. Another hour or hiking will take us to base camp. From here the view is one of the most spectacular anywhere in the World. You will be surrounded by the highest mountains in the World. Mt. Pumori with its steep ice walls and hanging glaciers seem so close that you could touch them.
Day 9: Lobuje to Pangboche. After a leisurely morning we will hike to Pangboche.
Day 10: Pangboche to Namche. After viewing the gompa we will hike through Phortse to Namche.
Day 11: Namche to Pakdingma.
Day 12: Pakdingma to Lukla. Last night of the trek in a bustling town and a celebration dinner.
Day 13: Fly to Kathmandu. Early morning flight and one of the most interesting flights you'll ever experience.

Route 03: Lukla - Gokyo - Gokyo Ri - Everest BC - Lukla - kathmandu
This is high altitude trek recommended for the very fit with previous experience of high altitude trekking. The trekker will be highly rewarded for his/her efforts with spectacular views of Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu , Ama Dablam and other great peaks. Leaving Kathmandu to Lukla by flight and climb again to Phakding. Crossing the Dudh Kosi river four times, a steep ascent to Namche bazaar is made. From here the trail passes through many Sherpa settlement with tremendous scenery. As we climb towards Gokyo we have superb views down the valley to Kangtega and up towards Cho Oyu. The views at Gokyo are spectacular with the best being obtained after a short climb above the lake. On the way down we follow the valley's eastern side to Phortse offering more spectacular scenery. From here the trail descends to namche and then to Lukla, from where we fly back to kathmandu.
Day 01: Fly to Lukla (2800 m.). Take an easy walk to Phakding.
Day 02: Walk through the busy trail and view the tantalizing glimpses of Kusum Kangru (6,369 m) Everest (8,848 m.) and Nuptse (7,879 m ). Arrive at Namche Bazar ( 3,444 m ).
Day 03: Rest and acclimatization at Namche Bazaar. A pleasant day can be spent exploring the village, talking to the Sherpas and marveling at the incredible scenery.
Day 04: The trek climbs the hill to Khumjung and descends to the valley of Dudhkoshi and arrives at Phortse Thanga (3,500m)
Day 05: This will be another short day trek to aid acclimatization to the altitude. The trail climbs steeply out of valley through rhododendron forest and juniper and large conifers appear as the elevation increases making the trekking beautiful in Spring. The trail passes through kharkas and summer settlements to Dole (4,200m). The views of Khumbi La and Tawache are magnificent throughout the day.
Day 06: Today the trek is through steep climbs in most of the places and through kharkas where there are flat spots to reach Machhermo (4,410m).
Day 07: The trail climbs a ridge for an excellent view both down the valley to Kengtega and up towards Cho Oyu and descend to a river and again climbs steep to the terminal moraine of the Ngozumpz glacier. a few lakes appear on the trail and finally reaches to Gokyo (4,750m) which is a collection of stone houses and walled pastures on the shores of large lake. The mountain views in the Gokyo region is spectacular. A two hour climbing on Gokyo Ri (5350m), the small peak above the lake provides a panoramic views of Cho Oyu, Gyachung Kang, Lhotse, Makalu, cholatse and Tawache.
Day 08: The trek descends to Na (4,400m) following the eastern side of the valley to Konar.

Alternative route via Cho La Pass (5,420m)The trek through Cho La Pass requires some mountaineering experience and well equipped. The pass is not difficult but it is steep and involves a glacier crossing. An ice axe, crampons and a rope are often necessary for crossing a small icefall at foot of the glacier on the other side of the Pass, although in ideal conditions, there are no technical problems and there is a trail in the rocks besides the icefall.

Gokyo - Chhugyuma via Cho La - Dzongla - PhericheDay 09 : The trek makes a few ups and downs where the landslide and streams have carved side valleys and arrives Phortse.
Day 10: From Phortse, the trail leads from a village Gompa up a steep, exposed trail with specatcular views to upper Pangboche where it joins the trail to the Everest region and arrives at Dingboche (4,360 m ),which is a yak herders village.
Day 11: Rest and acclimatization at Dingboche. A 2-hour walk from here to the huts at Chukung (4,700 m) will take to the glaciers flowing off Nuptse and Lhotse.
Day 12: Walk up a small ridge and then contour round the base of the Khumbu Glacier. From here, take a short steep climb to the terminal moraine of the glacier from where the views are stunning. Arrive at Lobuje (4,930 m ).
Day 13: Walk up to Gorakhshep (5,288 m ) and take a climb to Kalapathar (5,545 m ). The view from the top of Kalapathar surpasses anything one can imagine. Huge glacier ice flows all around. The mountains of Pumori (7,145 m ), Lingtren (6, 697 m ) and Khumbutse (6,623 m ) stand close to Tibet. Capture the most beautiful view of Sagarmatha, the roof of the world. Return to Lobuche.
Day 14: Retrace path to Pheriche (4,260 m ). Take the lower trail to Pangboche and Thyngboche.
Day 15: Descend to Imja Khola and climb to Khumjung (3,779 m ).
Day 16: Descend and walk through Namche Bazaar passing under the towering Kwongde Ridge (6,186 m) and follow Dudh Kosi to Phakding.
Day 17: Walk to Lukla and wrap up the trek programme.
Day 18: Fly back to Kathmandu.