High Himalayan Community Project Nepal: NEPAL

General information of Nepal

NEPAL is a land of eternal fascination, where going “once is not enough” Ranging from sixty meters above sea level to the highest point on earth, 8848 meters, Nepal is undoubtedly a unique place.

Nepal is a land of superb scenery, it is commonly known to be a paradise for trekking and, given the wide range of treks available, visitors soon find themselves planning to return.

But trekking is not the only activity which draws visitors: white-water rafting, mountain biking, jungle safaris are another not-to-be-missed part of the Nepal experience.

Nepal is also a country of ancient history, colourful people and one of the richest in the world in terms of art, culture and tradition which cannot be found anywhere else. Nepal is often referred to as “Never End Peace And Love”, a right expression to underline how outstandingly friendly the Nepalese people are.
Nepal, the last paradise..
Nepal, rich in unique cultural and natural heritage, is one of the leading Countries in the world from the viewpoint of tourism heritage. Known for the Coexistence of different castes and races, religions, languages, literature and culture, Nepal is an example of art, culture and religious harmony. On one hand, by preserving the country’s tangible and intangible archaeological heritage; dances, music and festive processions; and costumes, languages and culture on the basis of democratic sentiment, and with the promotion of Nepalese culture and civilization in the world there is an immense opportunity of developing tourism sites, and preserving and conserving cultural sites. On the other hand, growth of tourism industry contributes to the earning of foreign currency, increase in employment, and overall economic prosperity. Moreover, through the promotion of tourism industry, global friendship can also be enhanced. By developing and expanding the tourism industry to the rural level with intensive and coordinated community tourism, balanced and inclusive development can be achieved and it is probable that this can contribute immensely in poverty alleviation. Due to the country’s geographical structure and inadequate facility of alternate modes of transportation, it is vital to make air transportation affordable, safe, reliable and systematic, and thereby achieving a considerable increase in the number of domestic and foreign tourists.

FACTS ABOUT THE COUNTRY

Geography

Nepal is landlocked between the Tibet Autonomous region of the People’s Republic of China in the North and India in the South, East and West. Its capital is Kathmandu. The country is divided into 75 different districts and its area is 147,181 Sq. Km. It contains eight of world’s ten highest peaks.

Climate

Nepal has a typical monsoonal two-season year: there is the dry season from October to May and the wet season, the monsoon, from June to September. Nepal can be visited all year round but the best time for trekking is October / November and March / April.

Population

Nepal population is nearly 30 million people, the largest city is Kathmandu. The population of the country is extremely diverse and highly complex; there are more than 101 ethnic groups in Nepal (Sherpas, Thakalis, Tamangs, Tibetans, Rai and Limbu, Newaris, Gurungs, Magars, Bahuns and Chhetris, Tharus…)

Nepali is the official language. There is a high correlation between ethnicity and language and that’s why about 92 languages and dialects, except Nepali, are also spoken. English is understood and spoken by most of the people in the Kathmandu Valley and in major cities.

Religion

In Nepal, Hinduism and Buddhism are mingled into a complex blend which is often impossible to separate. Although the vast majority of the population is Hindu or Buddhist, there are also small groups of Muslims and Christians.

Political system

Multi-party democracy

FACTS FOR THE VISITOR

VISA

Tourist who intends to visit Nepal must hold a valid passport and visa.

Tourist Visa fee for visitors who enter Nepal for the first time in a visa year, from January to December

Multiple entry visa for 15 days or less from the date of entry US$ 25 *

Multiple entry visa for 30 days US$ 40 *

Multiple entry visa for 90 days US$ 100 *

(*or equivalent convertible foreign currency)

Tourist visa extension facility

Visa extension fee for the period of 15 days or less US$ 30 Visa extension fee for the period of more than 15 days US$ 2 per day.

Visa can be extended for a maximum period of 150 days in a visa year (January - December) at the Department of Immigration.

Gratis visa

Children below 10 yrs.

Any foreigner, who has lived in Nepal up to fifteen (15) days continuously, re-enters Nepal during the same visa year. Any foreigner, tourist entering into Nepal for three days or less than that.

Don't or Do's

A tourist may stay in Nepal up to 150 days in a visa year.

A tourist must extend his/her visa before expiry of the visa validity period. A tourist who does not comply with these regulations may be liable of fine and other prosecution as provided in Immigration Act and Rules.

A Foreigner having obtained tourist visa shall not be allowed to work with or without receiving remuneration.

A foreigner shall not be allowed to carry out any work other than that for which purpose s/he has obtained the visa

A few useful Nepali words

A little rudimentary knowledge of Nepali will help to make your trek easier and more interesting.

To introduce yourself:

Namaste: Welcome, hello, goodbye… you will hear it thousands of time during your stay!

Tapaailai kasto chha: How are you?

Hajur: Excuse me

Dhanyabad: Thank you

Ma Nepali boldina: I do not speak Nepali

Ma bujhdina: I do not understand

Mero naam… ho: My name is…