Golfing tourism in Nepal

A decade ago, golf was more or less a past time.Now it has turned a bit more professional in that it draws big sponsors and serves a wide purpose.

The major breakthrough came in1993 when Surya Tobacco Company started the yearly Surya Nepal Masters Open, the first internationally organised professional tournament with a hefty cash prize.ever since the tournament was launched, which is now played at the most scenic and natural Gokarna Golf Course, it has been a big attraction for the professional and amateur golfers from many Asian countries and more from rest countries.Nepal Tourism Board(NTB) has also been promoting golf and is a co-promoter to many events including Surya Nepal Masters.

There are seven golf courses in Nepal, namely, Royal Nepal Golf Club(RNGC),9-hole, at Tribhuvan International Airport, Gokarna Golf Resort(18-hole) at Gokarna,Yeti Golf Club(9-hole) at Fulbari Resort in Pokhara, Nirvana Golf Club(9-hole) in Dharan, Himalaya Golf Club(9-hole) in Pokhara, Tribhuvan Army Officers golf Club(9-hole) in Nawalparasi.Almost all of these golf courses are centrally located and have fantastic fairways and well-managed with state-of-the-art facilities like bars, driving ranges, golf lessons and party venues.Throughout the years these golf courses host many events and tournaments with overwhelming participation of professional and amateur players including expatriates.And this number is increasing every year.












Royal Nepal Golf Club(RNGC)
Now, RNGC alone receives 10-15 tourists every month.The green fees charged by the club is very reasonable and golf set, balls, golf shoes and pros are available on the spot on offer.RNGC is one of the oldest golfing courses in South Asia.The golfing courses is centrally located adjacent to the only international airport in Nepal and is just 10-15 minutes drives from any of the five-star and four-star hotels in Kathmandu.

Gokarna Golf Course

Likewise Gokarna is also a unique golf course with green lush vegetation, 500-year old forests still in its pristine form and the occasional sighting of wild animals like deer and squirrel prowling among fairways.In fact Gokarna is the only golf course designed under United States Golf Associations specification by internationally renowned Gleneales group.It is situated on the outskirts of Kathmandu at secluded and serene environment and is surrounded by temples including world heritage monument of Changu Narayan.

Yeti Golf club is located in Pokhara with Annapurna and Fishtail mountains on the backdrop.There is nothing playing in a course perched on a hill with Seti River gorging right below.Himalaya Golf Club in Pokhara and Nirvana Golf Club in Dharan are promoted by Yak and Yeti hotel.

The climate factor plays a determining role here.Being in the lap of himalayas, places like Pokhara and Kathmandu Valley have cool temperate and monsoonal climate.The climate is always pleasant, warm in summer and benignly cold in winter.Unlike the scorching cold in Delhi, Bombay and Calcutta or Malaysia or Singapore, it is possible to play golf in Nepal throughout the year without having to suffer from excessive heat and doggedly rains.

Tourists arrival in Nepal increses sharply

The possitive trend in international tourists arrival to Nepal continued for yet another month, as the total arrival posted a sound growth of 49.6 per cent for the month of May 2007 compared to the same period last year.

A total of 27,759 tourists came to Nepal during the month via air only.Indian market conyinued with healthy frowth of 27.9 per cent, while the non-Indian market posted a growth of 74.2 per cent, according toNepal Tourism Board(NTB).

Other countries of SAARC posted a sound growth as arrivals from Bangladesh recorded a 204.2 per cent increment and 154.5 per cent from Pakistanis.

The Asian sgment,too, registered an immense growth of 214.5 percent, with Malaysian arrivals escalating by 496.6 percent, along with Singapore at 2358.3 percent.The other primary markets registering growth are Japan at 18.3 percent,South Korea 743.4 percent, Thailand at 704.4 percent and Taiwan at 243.2 percent.

European market covered a one-third market share, with encouraging growth from major tourists generating markets like UK, France and Germany posting 86.3 per cent, 94.6 per cen and 48.4 percent growth respectively.

Rest of European markets also showed a sharp upward trend like Italy(169.4 per cent), the Netherlands(81.6 percent) and Spain (55 per cent).The Australian and USA market too, increased by 30.9 percent amd 71.1 percent.

What can one easily predict after viewing this data is that Nepal is safe now and Tourists are free to travel in Nepal everywhere.

China's Everest road plan foolish action

China's state media on Wednesday said that the country plans to build a highway on the side of Mt. Everest to pave way for the Olympic's torch's journey to the peak of the world's tallest mountain.
But this action is totally a foolish action and driven by a total disregard to world environment.The road at the sacred and serene area would usher in human activities that will cause an irreparable damage to the atmosphere on the mountain which is already suffering from pollution and the planned road will invite more pollution and collapse of the Eco-system.
The road will have more effect on Nepal and it's tourism.Many mountaineers around the world come to Nepal every year to challenge the thrill of world's tallest peak.More than this: there are many flora ans fauna which are already under threat in the fragile Eco- system and the road would make matters worse.So all those who are concerned with the Conservation of Environment and Biodiversity should protest the move jointly.

Nepal win 'Destination Travel Award'

With the returning of peace in Nepal after last year People's Movement, Nepal has won the "New Travel routes Contest 2007 Award" at the International Travel Exhibition(ITE) held in Hong Kong from June 14-17.
The contest was conducted through a visitor's survey of trade, media and consumers that attended the ITE fair.The award is a testament to the new confidence in the destination, which is also reflected in the tourists arrival numbers in 2007, Nepal Tourism Board(NTB) press release states.

Fantastic world level rafting in Nepali Rivers

Nepal is country of mountains and it has plenty of mountain rivers.So rafting is very popular in Nepal rivers.There are many rivers in Nepal for rafting but the Sunkoshi, the Trishuli and the Kaligandaki are major ones.Sunkishi river was rated as the world's top 10 rafting rivers by Adventure Travel Magazine.

Rafting is highly dependent on season and monsoon is the worst time for rafting as conditions are damp, trails are muddy and rivers are often too high.From October, when the monsoon ends, the conditions are perfect. The weather is superb,the scenery is green.Spring is best season for rafting as the weather is warmer and the melting snow means fast- flowing water.

There are many rafting companies in Kathmandu.They will offer you all needs and you don't need any preparations if you like to go for rafting.The operator will costs you from $25 -$75+ a day and one trip generally takes 3 to 9 days.Below is introduction to rafting rivers in Nepal.

Trishuli River

Probably it is the most popular river in Nepal.this river starts north-west of Kathmandu and flows south and then south-west of Marsyangdi River.it then follows south to the Terai.

This is even good for inexperienced persons bacause it is gentle one.it will take 3-7 days a trip in trishuli River.

Sunkoshi river

The Sunkoshi flows southward from the himalaya and then turns west and flows right across Nepal.The Sunkoshi ans the river which join into it flow down from some of the highest mountains of the Homalaya.Rafting trip goes through a variety of country, includin widw valleys and deep gorges, and past small villages where dugout canoes are used as transport across the river.From the mountain pines forests in the high country you evenually emerge in the green and fertile lowlands of Terai.

Kaligandaki River

The Kaligandaki river, flowing south between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri and then turning west to the Narayani just north of Narayanghat, is not used as much as the Trishuli and Sunkoshi River.

Interesting rafting in Nepal's river

Rising from the glaciers of the world's highest mountains and from high plateau of Tibet, the rivers of Nepal plunge through the gorges of Himalaya and many valleys without people and everyday life.Before the melted snow leaves Nepal, the rivers course through tropical forests and mender through the plains of the Terai.
Rafting the rivers of Nepal is one of the best and exciting ways to abandon cities and crowd of people.One can closely examine the countryside, the rural villages and the native people without investing the time and energy required for along trekking trip.You can enjoy rafting either on your own or under direction of professional companies with guides well trained to international standard of rowing and controlling the craft.Either way, rafting can be a combination of introspective tranquility and tremendous excitement.
River rafting is an exceptional anywhere- but in Nepal's unique terrain, it is somehow more interesting.

My trip to Jiri (second switzerland in the World)

Welcome all of you.It is my third day in Jiri.Till today I have visited many places in Jiri with my friend Ram.Here is what my friend Ram says about Jiri:
Jiri is located at the height of 1905m above the sea level to the eastern part of Dolakha district.We can see Cherdung Hill with green forest to the north and Tame Hill to the South and one can enjoy beautiful look of many mountains to the east.Jiri itself gets snow in winter and there will be snowing throughout the year on the top hills of Jiri.But, unfortunately, I don't get chance to play snow because it is monsoon these days.
Jiri is very beautiful.Almost 80% part of this valley is covered with forest.Again, Swiss Government has helped to protect forest here and locally people are organised themselves to save forest in Jiri.One can enjoy trekking sports like Paragliding, cycling etc. in Jiri.There was direct flight to Jiri from capital city Kathmandu , but, it is suspended nowadays.
There is plan to build a large artificial lake in Jiri with the help of Swiss government.After completion one can enjoy boating, swimming in that lake.

My trip to Jiri (second switzerland in the World)

today, I am here at Jiri Technical School(JTS), another help by Swiss Government.This school was built by Swiss Government where students from all over Nepal come to study vocational and Technical subjects every year.This school provide mainly Technical education based on Health, Agriculture and Engineering sector.According to Ram, there is facility of hostels, swimming pools,sports etc. for students studying there.
Besides, there are many other schools to provide regular eduction.Though many part of country are lack of school and good education, in Jiri there is about 12 schools: a great achievement in field of education in context of Nepal.Jiri Higher Secondary School where class up to bachelor level is studied was established about 40 years ago.There is another school where students are studying up to grade 10.There is regularly one primary school in every 9 Ward and 3-4 more private schools.So according to my friend, literacy rate of Jiri is more than 85 though average literacy of Nepal is not more than 55.For people of older age, there is informal classes to learn basic education.
To the south of Jiri, there is Jiri Hospital established about 45 years back being second largest in the Dolakha district.It has provided facility to local residents and other who live near Jiri.Additionally, there are another 3 Health clinics in Jiri.I will write about scenery of Jiri and culture of people in Jiri.

My trip to Jiri (second switzerland in the World)

I arrived here in Jiri just three hours back with Ram by wonderful journey on the way.it was very interesting and joy on the way.We passed across many rivers and thick and green forests.I with my friend Ram am staying at local Hotel here in Jiri.
We went to Agricultural farm near Jiri Bazzar where more than 500 livestock have farmed with a large green pasture for grazing livestock.
When I see Jiri for the first time, yes, I am sure that there is no doubt that this is beautiful place to visit or live.I am extremely attracted by it's scenery in first view.I will write more after I visited some more place here.

My trip to Jiri (second switzerland in the World)

I have heard about Jiri(in Nepal) and it is called second Switzerland in the world.So this time I decided to go to Jiri and stay there for 3 days..what I heard about Jiri is that it is very much beautiful place with good scenery and it has same geographical make up, weather condition as Switzerland.So it is called second Switzerland in the world.I am going there with Ram, a local resident of Jiri studying in capital city Kathmandu.
We are going there by a micro bus tomorrow.At ticket counter in Kathmandu, I learnt that Jiri is connected to Kathmandu by road which was built by Swiss Government about 20 years back.Thanks to Swiss government for building road to such beautiful place.everyday about 10 buses go from Kathmandu to Jiri and from latter to former carrying loads and people.I will write I reach there.

Trekking this summer in Nepal

It has started summer season in Nepal and started raining at most part of the country. For those tourists who like to come in Nepal this season are informed following things.

It is hard to travel to main destinations like Everest, Annapurna. Because they will get more rain and if you have to walk then many way would be muddy. This season is called off season. However, there are other destinations, where you can visit without any burden.
You can enjoy traveling to places like Chitwan, Lumbini(above picture), Pokhara( below picture) and many eastern and western destinations. It will be your 5- 20 days trek. Lumbini is birth place of Buddha, God of Buddhists. It has beautiful sceneries. Pokhara is 6-7 hours drive from Katmandu, capital city of Nepal. It is one of the most beautiful places in Nepal where you can enjoy many things. You can see Annapurna Mountain, fishtail mountain from there. There are 3-4 lakes in Pokhara.

You also can go to many national parks of Nepal. So you wouldn’t have to be worried about trekking during summer season in Nepal.

Know why is Nepal called 'Country of Mountains'

Nepal's Himalaya is the largest and highest standing 800 km across with eight peaks that soar above 8000 meters including Mt. Everest(8848m), the highest peak in the world.

To the south of Nepal is the Terai- a flat tropical lowland.From the Terai, the Land rises highly to the Mahabharat mountain range with peaks of up to 3,050 m.This is followed by central Hills, an undulating mountain region which leads to the snow covered Great Himalaya Range whose awesome peaks form the northern boundary of Nepal in the east.Though only 193km across Nepal has a wide variety of geographical regions, ranging from tropical southern flat lands to the arctic Tibetan Plateau.

The Great Himalayan, since time immemorial have grasped the dreams, aspirations and imagination of men.They are majestic, so awesome,so mysterious and so it is called the book of the snow and home of God.The panorama of the Great Himalaya of Nepal is vivid spectrum of beauty and colour.the grandeur of Himalayan landscape, framed in mist cases by dazzling snow peaks creates an impression of serenity, calminess and idyllic repture. These great peaks have always symbolized the great ideal of human thoughts, deeds as well as consolation. As for the adventure, Nepal consists the scenic grandeur of the hills and valley with the everlasting great Himalaya forming out-of-the world wonders.
The Great Himalayan region of Nepal lies at the altitude of 4877m to 8848m above the sea level. It includes existing 14 peaks which exceeds in altitude of 8000m.The Great Himalayan of Nepal and their peaks are covered up with snow throughout the year. They are loftiest mountain in the world and include world’s highest and also most lovely peaks. They are of exceptional interest for the mountaineers and are undoubtedly attractive scenic spots in the world.
The Nepal Himalayas, stretching from 800 kilometers from the Kanchenjunga massif to the Mahakali River. Both the Kanchanjunga massif to the Mahakali river lie more than 1300 peaks with an altitude more than 6000m.These can be set apart as follows:
Above 8000 meters-eight of the 14 highest peaks in the world
About 7000 meters-one hundred and twenty seven peaks
About 6000 meters-one thousand one hundred and sixty-six peaks
Nepal Himalaya consists many outstandingly beautiful mountain groups. The kanchenjunga Himal forms the eastern most precinct of the Nepal Himalaya.One of the most impressive of the Himalayan Giants, it is the third highest peak of the world having 8586 meters.
Khumbu Himal is another group of Nepal Himalaya which has greatest concentration of peaks. It has many 6000 meters peaks and four above 8000 meters peaks dominated by Mt. Everest, the highest peaks in the world.

Mt. Everest(8848m)
The Khumbu Himal with Extensive glaciers and compressive peaks rising to the north, west and east around the upper belts of Dudh Koshi river is one of the most interesting mountaineering centre in Nepal.
Khumbu valley is impressive places due to grandeurs of its vast glaciers, lofty peaks, magnificent pastures, meadows and the mountain villages. Some of the prominemt peaks of the Khumbu Himal are Mt. Everest(8848m:above picture), Lhotse(8516m), Lhotse sar(8,000m), Cho Oyu(8201m, Chachung Khang I97952m), Nuptse I(7855m), Pumori(7161m),Amadablum(6812m).Amadablam is regarded as he most awesome peak in the Khumbu Himal group.
The name Sagarmatha(Mt. Everest) in Nepali means, the head of the sky or the peak kissing clouds. This region is itself a guttering marvel of spectacles of many snowy mountains, glaciers, alpine flowers, natural vistas and man made monasteries. The first modern expedition was made in 1921 by Lt. Col. C. K. Howard Bury. After this, many expeditions were carried on Everest. Finally British expedition led by Col. John Hunt successfully put two members, Tenzing Norgey(Nepal) and sir Edmund Hillary(New Zealand) on the peak on May 29, 1953.Lured by the challenges of the highest peak in the world, climbing teams from different nations apply for expedition annually.
Kumbakarna Himal, another Nepal Himalayan Group, is situated west of the Khunbu Himal to the upper side of Arun River. Here lies makalu(8463m), the fifth highest peak in the world. The Arun river valley is a picturesque spot in beautiful setting. It is rich in various climate and vegetation levels right up to the glacial wilderness.
Rolwaling Himal lies east of Tamakoshi river and is composed of two parallel ranges on either side of Rolwaling prominent peaks of this group is Gaurishankar(7134m) named after Hindu God Shankar and his Consort Parbati and Choba Bhamara(6116m),Gaurishankar peak is majestic due to its changing shape. Rolwaling was once a glacial valley and a visit to this place gives impression of walking in the surrounding of the mountains.

Annapurna

Annapurna and Damodar compose one of the most impressive ranges in the central Nepal. Annapurna Himal stretches between the Marsyangdi and Kaligandaki rivers. The main Annapurna range can be seen as prominent attraction from Pokhara as well as Manang Valley. A narrow ridge south of Annapurna III(7555m) is crowned by the impressive peak of Machhapuche(6997m).Annapurna has 4 peaks having height of 8091m, 7939m, 7555m and 7525m respectively. Annapurna I was successfully climbed by French in 1950.
Dhaulagiri, a massive ridge with high peaks, stands between the Kaligandaki and Bheri River. The main ridge has as east west course and long spur slopes north to MUkut Himal and then reaches further to the border range in the Mukninath.Dhaulagiri-I (8167m) have five high peaks and all of them are very impressive. Dhaulagiri
Dhaulagiri is one of the most majestic peaks in the Himalayan range. It is embattled rampant of many mountaineering expeditions. This peak was first climbed by a Swiss team in 960.
The Kanjiroba Dolpa and Humla group of Nepal Himalaya which culminates in Kanjiroba peak (6883m) along with another 28 peaks exceeding 6000 m extends between Bheri River and Humla Karnali. Phoksundo Lake, one of the most beautiful lakes of Nepal, lies to the south-west of Kanjiroba Himal.
Saipal and Byas Pushi Himal group of Nepal Himalayan covers the area west of Humla Karnali mountains.Saipal settles as an isolated group of snowy peaks. The highest peak rises to 7831m.
The Bayas Rishi Himal forms the western limit of the Nepal Himalayan. The principal peaks are Api (7132m), Nampa (6775m)
The Nepal Himalayas, the majestic splendor enclosing earth's 'third pole', have embraced the greatest concentration of high peaks in the world, so many still to be climbed and glaciers to be explored. Due to these reasons, the Nepal Himalaya is much popular among the mountaineers of the world.
Referring to the growth of adventure tourism in Nepal, Sir Edmund Hillary, mountaineering hero and pioneer Everest conqueror, said that with mighty mountains, great rivers, ancient cultures and friendly people-"Nepal is one of the world's fastest growing adventure tourism area".

Skiing in Nepal

When it has been always climbing in mountains of Nepal, skiing is slowly being played here. Only few of us were known that it is possible skiing in our mountains.
Government has not given its attention about developing new sector in tourism. However, private sectors are many steps ahead. They are experimenting different things to find new sector. There are so many mountains in Nepal. This sport has been started at 4 different places already. They are Manang, Lang tang, and Dhaulagiri and Khumbu region.
There are lots of steep parts in Himalaya of Nepal to do ski in winter season. Skiers are attracted here because it is quite fun and dangerous as well than in other parts of the world. Players can stay at Pokhara as base camp and do ski in Annapurna and Manang. Top skiers in the world will be attracted once.This has got more importance since distance between skiing spot and hotel is only about 45 minutes flight.Till today 20 people in 1 group will get permission for 10 days.

A team of Slovenia had done ski in Khumbu from Everest top.There should be 6 feet snow level for skiing.This condition id fulfilled at many6 places of Nepal.So skiing in Nepal is of international level.

At Mera peak of 6462m high in Khumbu region, tourists already had done skiing.Professional ski players Jost scraive had already played at Iceland Peak in Khumbu.

Interesting Trekking sports in Nepal

It goes without saying that owing to her immense wealth of natural resources and amicable climatic conditions, Nepal is emerging as one of the best destination for adventure sports in the world. And the need to exploit this opportunity is growing fast among domestic denizens, especially the urbanises. So if you are also looking forward to some adventures this season, here are some sports that will put the thrill pill in your life.

Rafting

Out of 16 rivers open for rafting in Nepal , Sunkoshi, Bhotekoshi, and Karnali rank among best rivers for whitewater rafting in the world. However, Trishuli is the most poplar among ordinary enthusiasts of the capital ( Kathmandu ) as it is near and not very strenuous.
Rafting however demands various equipment, experienced guides who are needed to steer the boat safely across rapids (turbulent areas in river) and jutting rocks. The easiest option to enjoy rafting is to go through a professional rafting agency.
To add to the fun, the coming months are among the best time to enjoy the sports in Nepal.This may will see the 19th annual rafting festival at Trishuli, which boasts a participation of 800-900 people yearly.
Apart from rafting Kayaking can also be tried in our rivers, but it is mainly for the experienced lot.Anyone above 14 years of age can enjoy rafting


Mountain Biking/Cycling



Mountain biking is like killing two birds with one stone. While simultaneously bettering your health, you can also mingle with people from villages and enjoy their cultures. Furthermore, camping in the fresh and cool hillsides after a long day of cycling can be truly amazing experience.
Interested people can go cycling by themselves in a group, or through various cycling agencies in a packaged tour. If you are beginners, it is suggested that you hire a guide from professional agencies, especially for longer tours. Among others, guide provide trail guidance and help manage time better.
Various packages are available to suite your fitness level, experience and the number of day you have at your disposal.

Bungee jumping


You may have heard about this, but have you tried this? Have you experienced the thrill of diving 160 meters? You would not want to miss out this one.
But is it safe? Those who manage the world’s third deepest bungee jumping site assure that they regularly check the equipment and never compromise on safety procedures. Plunging from such a great height without prior experience may be a bit tough for many, but it is not a problem. Anyone with an average fitness level can go for the kick.
But those with ,heart problem, asthma ,recent dislocation, laser eye surgeries, neurological surgeries, epilepsy and high blood pressure are discourage from this sport. those below 16 years of age will need a written consent from their parents for the jump.


Paragliding



Paragliding in the paradisaical Pokhara provides you a unique bird-like flying experience. In this sport, you will float in the peace and quietness of the open sky with the view of the Himalayas , dense forests and Fewa lake .Varieties of paragliding can be enjoyed, depending on the time you want to spend on the air and your need for a guide pilot.
Foe beginners, ’tandem’, flight with experienced pilots are suggested. The flights can be conducted up to first week of April, depending on the weather conditions. According to it’s organizers, all those above 15 years of age and who can give a run for the take off while landing can go for this sport.

Nepal is a safe destination to travel for tourists all over the World

There is no doubt that Nepal is one of the top and most beautiful place for the tourists in the world.Trekking is one of the major source of income for this country.But due to many years of political unstability and decade over conflicts, this sector has suffered many loss and number of tourists also has decreased.
However, the situation has changed after People Movement of April and restoration of People's democracy.In the past, there used to be fear of safety due to Maoists.But now they are in interim legislature and sonn going to join the interim government as a major political parties.They have regarded this sector as main area to develop the country and saind not to harm foreign.
Noone will retirn unsatisfied with natural beauty of Nepal.It is only one country in the world where there is 9 mountains among 14 in the world which are above 8000m with the highest mountain in the world Mt. Everest.There are som many numerouns below that level.This is the second richest country in the world in natural resources.