Approved On 2064-6-27 (Oct. 14, 2007)

Sd.

Statute of NEPAL ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION PROJECT 2064 (2007)

Preamble:

Although Government of Nepal and Non-governmental organizations are carrying out business relating to environment, substantial work has not been done in this field. Therefore, this Statute of the Nepal Environmental Education Project, 2064 (2007), has been framed pursuant to Association Registration Act, 2034 B.S. (1977 A.D.), which is an organization of non-political persons who are not affiliated to any political party and organization bearing in mind the necessity of developing economic, social, educational and environmental aspects of the local community by uniting and organizing them.

Chapter -1

Preliminary

1. Title of the Association:

This Association may be cited as "the NEPAL ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION PROJECT"  which shall be called "NEEP" in short.

a. Address of Office of the Association:

The Central Office of this Nepal Environmental Education Project Association shall be located at Ward No. 29, Kathmandu Municipal Corporation, Kathmandu District.

b. Working Area of the Association:

Working area of this Nepal Environmental Education Project Association shall be the Kathmandu Municipal Corporation. Works may be carried out at any place of the Kingdom of Nepal having obtained approval from the Local Authority of the districts concerned as required.

c. Commencement:

This Statute shall come into force from the date of registration of the Association.

d. Existence of the Association:

This Association shall be a body corporate with perpetual succession which shall be a non-profit making, non-political, non-governmental social organization. No any income generating work or any consultancy with or without fee shall be carried out except the objectives of the Association.

2. Definition:

Unless the subject or context otherwise requires. in this Statute:-

(a) "Association" means an Association named Nepal Environmental Education Project, 2064 (2007).

(b) "Committee" means the Working Committee to be constituted pursuant to this Statute.

(c) "Act" means the Association Registration Act, 2034 (1977).

(d) "Rules, Bye-laws" means Rules, Bye-laws, to be framed under this Statute.

(e) "Office-bearers" mean the Office-bearers of this Association.

(f) "Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer, Member" means the Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer, Member of the Association.

(g) "Local Authority" means the Chief District Officer.

(h) "Prescribed or as Prescribed" means prescribed or as prescribed in this Statute or in the Rules or the Bye-laws framed under this Statute.

(i) "Meeting" means the General Meeting under this Statute.

3. Seal and Logo of the Association:

There shall be a separate seal and logo of this Association not being contrary to the prevailing system. The seal and logo shall be in the format as prescribed in the Annex. Provided, however, that the seal and logo shall be changed immediately by way of amendment, if it is similar to a seal or logo of any association previously registered.

Chapter - 2

4. Objectives of the Association:

(a) This Association shall be a non-profit making, welfare and social organization.

(b) To provide assistance for upliftment of life of orphan children.

(c) To develop awareness for maintaining clean environment.

(d) Special attention shall be given for upliftment of life of poor and intelligent students.

(e) To provide service to helpless and poor sector or the society having coordination with governmental and non-governmental organizations as well as with international non-governmental organizations.

(f) This Association shall extend services to the victims of natural calamites as per its capacity.

(g) This Association, while carrying out its activities, shall obtain approval from the concerned bodies and having cohesion with the policies and programmes of National Planning Commission and in coordination with the district level offices.

(h) To provide primary health service and non-formal education having obtained approval from the concerned bodies.

(i) To create awareness on income generation to make the local people economically strong.

(j) To make effort for the academic, moral economic, physical, social and cultural development of local women.

(k) To resolve the activities against women and create awareness for women rights.

5. Acts to be carried out to Attain the Objectives of the Association:

The Association shall carry out the following acts to attain the aforesaid objectives:-

(a) The Association shall carry out the above mentioned objectives only after obtaining permission or license for the concerned bodies as per the prevailing laws.

(b) To construct buildings, purchase office goods such as computers, telephone, typewriter etc. purchase transport vehicles required for the Association or to take on rent and use them.

(c) To appoint employees necessary for the company and determine terms and conditions of their services.

(d) To operate bank accounts having deposited the amount received in the name of the Association.

(e) In case any dispute arises, it shall be resolved on the basis of mutual consent as per this Statute.

Chapter -3

Membership

6. Classification of Membership:

The Membership of this Association shall be of 4 types as follows:-

a. Ordinary Members:

If any Nepali citizen having qualification as referred to in Section 7 applies for membership under the prescribed procedures, such persons shall be the ordinary members of the Association.

b. Founder Members :

The Office-bearers at the time of registration of this Association shall be the founder members. The founder members shall have to obtain ordinary or life membership by paying fee pursuant to the Statute.

c. Honorary Members:

Honorary membership of the Association may be awarded to a distinguished social worker and distinguised Nepali citizen as deemed appropriate, provided that there shall be no voting right of such honorary members.

d. Life Members:

Life membership shall be awarded to those persons who make special contribution for the development of the Association subject to the prescribed procedures.

7. Necessary Qualification for obtaining membership:

Following qualification shall be required to be a member of this Association:-

a. A Nepali citizen having attained 18 years of age.

b. A person not being convicted in any criminal offence involving moral turpitude.

c. A person not being mentally disordered.

d. A person not being disqualified by any other law.

e. A person not being charged of an offence of embezzlement of property of any other Association.

8. Circumstance under which no Membership of the Association may be obtained or may remain Valid :

(1) No person may be appointed as a member of the Association in the following circumstances:

a. A person who has not attained 16 years of age.

b. Mentally disordered.

c. Insolvent.

d. Within one year of being convicted from a court of law in any theft, deception, forgery or fraud or unauthorized spending or misuse of money of own custody or corruption.

e. A person having personal interest in the business of the concerned association.

f. If one dies.

g. If Membership is not renewed.

i. If one renounces membership by a written notice.

9. Termination of Membership:

1. A person shall not remain as a member of this Association in the following circumstances:-

a. If one can not obtain membership of the Association pursuant to Section 8 of this Association.

b. If a proposal in respect of removing anybody from the membership of the Association in passed by a majority of 75 percent members of the Association,

c. If a resignation tendered from the post of a member is approved,

d. If any matter of dishonesty or malafide intention towards the Association is proved by a court of law.

e. If any function, which is not allowed to be carried out by the Association, is carried out.

f. If the Association is dissolved.

2. An opportunity to defend him/herself shall be given before disqualifying a person to be appointed to the post of a member or to remain as a member.

10 Membership fee and procedure to issue Membership:

The Members referred to in Section 6 of this Statute may acquire membership by paying the following fee :

1. Founder Members:

a. The office bearers of the Ad-hoc committee at the time of registration of the Association shall be the founder members.

b. The founder members may obtain ordinary membership or life membership by paying a fee as prescribed in this Statute.

2. Life Members:

Life membership may be awarded by the decision of the Working Committee to those persons who pay Rs. 8,000/- (eight thousand) to the Association in lump sum.

3. Ordinary Members:

a. A person willing to be an ordinary member may obtain ordinary membership by paying Rs. 500/- (five hundred rupees) as entrance fee and Rs. 300/- (three hundred rupees) as annual fee as per the decision of the Working Committee.

b. Such members shall have to pay Rs. 250/- (two hundred and fifty) for renewal fee.

c. The ordinary members shall have to renew their membership by the end of the month of Ashwin of each year. Thereafter, the membership may by renewed by paying a fee as prescribed.

4. Honorary Membership:

Honorary membership may be awarded to social workers and distinguished Nepali citizens having contribution in social work and racial upliftment, as deemed appropriate by the decision of the General Meeting. Provided, however, that an honorary member shall not have a voting right.

5. If any applicant is denied to issue a membership, a notice thereof shall be given to such an applicant.

6. All the members of this Association shall have to observe the provision of this Statute and rules and bye-laws frame under this Statute.

7. Separate records of the membership granted by the Association as referred to in sub-sections 1, 2, 3 and 4 shall be maintained in a format as prescribed.

Chapter - 4

Provision relating to General Meeting and Meetings

11. Formation of General Meeting :

1. The General Meeting of this Association shall be comprised of the members obtaining membership pursuant to Section 7 of the Statute except the honorary members. The honorary members shall be regarded as invited members. General Meeting shall be the supreme body of the Association.

2. General Meeting of this Association shall be as follows:

a. Annual General Meeting: The Annual General meeting shall be held once in a year.

b. Extra-ordinary General Meeting: If one-fourth Members of the total Members of the Association made a submission along with the reason to convene the Extra-ordinary General meeting, the Working Committee must compulsorily convene the Extra-ordinary General meeting within seven days. Provided, however, that Extra-ordinary General meeting shall not be reconvened within six months of holding the General Meeting or the Extra-ordinary General meeting.

3. The first Annual General Meeting shall be held within two months after expiry of fiscal year when this Association is established; and the subsequent Annual General Meetings shall be held within two months after expiry of fiscal year.

4. A notice indicating time, date, venue and agenda shall compulsorily be given to all the Ordinary Members in advance of at least 15 days for holding the Annual General Meeting and in advance of at least 7 days for holding the Extra-ordinary General Meeting.

5. In case of failure to hold the General Meeting and the Extra-ordinary General Meeting convened pursuant to sub-section (4) because of lacking quorum as referred to in Section 18 of this Statute, the General Meeting shall be reconvened by giving time for at least seven days.

6. Minute-books for the General Meeting and the Extra-ordinary General Meeting shall be separately maintained.

12. Functions, Duties and powers of the General Meeting: Functions, duties and powers of the General Meeting shall be as follows:

a. To approve plans, programmes and annual budget submitted by the working committee.

b. To approve annual audit report received from the auditor, having discussed on it and to disuses on the irregularities pointed in the audit report and give directions to the working committee to recover such amount of money that cannot be regularized.

c. To appoint auditor for the following year and fix his/her remuneration.

d. To give necessary directions to the working committee having evaluated annual work progress report of the Association and the functions carried out by the Association.

e. To hold election of the office-bearers of the working Committee subject to the procedures under this Statute when the term of office of the office-bearers of this Association is completed.

f. To approve amendments to the Statute, rules and bye-laws of the Association.

g. To award honorary membership.

h. To approve the functions carried out by the working committee for the interest of the Association keeping their suitability in mind.

i. To give approval for the position of the employees, remuneration, allowances and other facilities to be borne by its own resources as submitted by the working committee as required.

13. Formation of the Working Committee:

(a) A Working Committee comprising of 7 office-bearers as follows shall be constituted by election from among the members of the General Meeting:

1. Chairperson 1

2. Vice-chairperson 1

3. Secretary 1

4. Treasurer 1

5. Members 3

(b) The term of Office of the Working Committee shall be of 2 years.

(c) If a post of any Member of the Working Committee falls vacant prior to holding the Annual General Meeting, the Member of the Working Committee may be nominated by the Working Committee for the remaining term. The term of office of the Member so elected for the said post shall be only for a remaining term of the member whose post falls vacant.

(d) The Chairperson shall convene the meeting of the Working Committee as per necessity. Provided, however, that, if 51 percent of Members of the Office-bearers of the Working Committee made a submission to convene the meeting, the Chairperson must convene the meeting of the Working Committee immediately.

(e) A Member shall have to present is person in the meeting of the Working Committee.

(f) The meeting of the Working Committee shall not be held unless 51% Office-bearers of the total number of the Office-bearers of the Working Committee are present.

(g) The Chairperson shall preside over the meeting of the Working Committee and in the event of his/her absence, the Vice-chairperson shall and in the event of his/her absence also, a Member selected from amongst themselves shall preside over the meeting.

(h) The decision of majority votes shall prevail in the meeting of the Working Committee; and in the case of a tie, the Chairperson shall exercise the casting vote.

(i) Agenda discussed at the meeting of the Working Committee shall be recorded in a separate minutes book and at least 51 percent of the Members present must sign the said minutes.

(j) Notwithstanding anything contained in the aforesaid sub-sections, if all the Office-bearers of the Working Committee agree in writing on the activities under its jurisdiction, such activities may be carried out without meeting by recording such an agreement in the minutes book. The agreement as above shall be regarded as the decision of the Working Committee.

(k) All the acts to be carried out by the Association shall be carried out by the decision of the Working Committee.

14. Functions, duties and powers of the Working Committee:

1. To prepare annual programs and estimated budget for the following year and submit to the General Meeting.

2. To implement or cause to be implemented the decision made by the General Meeting by observing the provision of the Statute.

3. To operate the programs those are beneficial to the Association.

4. To be accountable to the General Meeting.

5. To make maxim utilization and use of the available resources to attain the objectives of the Association.

6. To make work plans, collect resources to carry out the functions of the Association and to implement or cause to be implemented.

7. To cause to keep the fund and assets of the Association in a safe manner and to operate bank account having opened it.

8. To make rule relating to terms and conditions as well as facilities of the employees of the Association and enforce the same causing it approved from the General Meeting.

9. To constitute advisory committees, other committees, sub-committees from among the appropriate persons and allocate their functions as required during their term of office.

10. To play leadership role of the Association.

15. May Quit Position:

The Chairperson may quit his/her position by tendering resignation to the working committee through the Vice-chairperson and the Vice-Chairperson and other members may quit their respective positions by tendering resignation to the Chairperson.

16. Other Committees:

1. The Working Committee may form other committees or sub-committees to carry out the functions of the Association subject to the provisions of this Statute, as requirements. Provided that such committees or sub-committees shall have caused to be approved from the General Meeting.

2. Functions of the sub-committees shall be as prescribed by the Working Committee.

Chapter - 5

Functions, Duties and Powers of the Office-bearers

17. Functions, duties and powers of the Office-bearers:

Functions, duties and powers of the Office-bearers of the Working Committee shall be as follows:

1. Chairperson:

a. To preside over the meeting of the Working Committee and the General Meeting, to conduct meetings.

b. To exercise a casting vote in case of even division of votes in any matter.

c. To represent or cause to be represented on behalf of the Association or against the Association.

d. To allocate functions to other office-bearers and members.

e. To certify records.

f. To give leadership to the Association.

g. To make efforts to implement the policies and programmes of the Association and cause to keep the account of movable and immovable property of the Association upto date.

h. To give direction to the secretary to call meetings of the Association.

2. Vice-Chairperson:

a. To assist the Chairperson

b. To fulfill other responsibilities as prescribed by the Chairperson.

c. To carry out functions of the Chairperson in his/her absence.

3. Secretary:

a. To look after and operate secretariat of the Association.

b. To call meetings as per the direction of the Chairperson.

c. To keep the records safely.

d. To fulfill other responsibilities assigned by the Chairperson.

4. Joint Secretary :

To carry out the functions of the Secretary in his/her absence.

5. Treasurer:

a. To safeguard and operate fund of the Association.

b. To submit annual programmes and budget to the General Meeting.

c. To keep the account up-to date.

d. To cause to have annual audit regularly.

6. Members:

a. To take active part in the meetings of the committee.

b. To play creative role in the activities of the Association.

18. Quorum:

No business of the General Meeting shall be conducted unless 60 (sixty) percent Ordinary Members of the total number of Members are present. Provided, however, that there shall be no obstruction to hold the General Meeting reconvened pursuant to sub-section (5) of Section 11 of this Statute, if 51% of the total numbers of Members are present.

Chapter -6

Financial Provision

19. Fund of the Association:

1. There shall be a separate fund of the Association and the following amounts shall be deposited in the fund.

a. Membership fee.

b. Grant provided by any one else voluntarily.

2. Prior approval of the Ministry of Finance of the Government of Nepal shall have to obtain in case any grant or aid is to be received from foreign organizations or individuals.

3. Amount received to the Association shall be deposited in a local bank and an account shall be operated.

20. Operation of Bank Account:

The bank account of the Association shall be operated by the joint signature of the Chairperson and the Treasurer and the signature of both of them shall be mandatory. Provided that an arrangement of keeping record of income and expenditure as per the prevailing laws shall be made.

21. Method to Spend Money of the Fund:

The following method shall be applied in spending money deposited in the Fund the Association.

a. No any spend shall be made from the fund without having approved the annual budget, plan and programs of the Association.

b. Money may be spend from the fund subject to the budget and programme approved from the General Meeting.

c. Financial statement of the amount spent from the fund shall have to compulsorily submitted to the General Meeting.

d. Money from the fund shall be spent as prescribed.

22. Accounts and Audit of the Association:

1. Accounts of income and expenditure of the Association shall clearly be maintained as per the prevailing laws.

2. Audit of the Association shall be made by the registered auditor as per the prevailing laws.

3. If the Government of Nepal or the local authority wants to inspect the accounts they may inspect or cause to be inspected by deputing sub-ordinate employees at any time.

4. Auditor shall be appointed by the General Meeting. Provided, however, that the Working Committee shall appoint the auditor until the first Annual General Meeting is held.

5. One copy each of the audit report and annual work progress report of the Association shall be submitted to the local authority, District Development Committee, Social Welfare Council and the concerned bodies.

Chapter - 7

Election

23. Provision Relating to  Election:

1. A Committee Comprising of maximum 3 persons shall be constituted on the consent of the Working Committee for the purpose of election to the Working Committee.

2. The Election Committee shall make its procedures subject to the prevailing laws.

3. In case there is any dispute in respect with the election, the decision of the Election Committee shall be final.

4. The Election Committee shall ipso facto be dissolved on the following day of the completion of election.

24. Qualification to be a Candidate:

a. Individuals not stated in Section 8.

b. Honorary members.

c. Members of the Election Committee

25. Vote of No-confidence

a. A proposal of vote of no-confidence may be presented to the General Meeting by one third members of the General Meeting in written form against any office-bearer or member with reason. In such a situation a separate General Meeting shall be called. A time limit of 7 days shall be given to the concerned office-bearer or member to defend himself / herself by giving a written notice regarding the proposal of no- confidence. If the proposal of vote of no-confidence is passed by a decision of two third majority of the total number of members of the General Meeting, the office-bearers against whom such proposal was brought, shall be relieved from respective positions. No such proposal shall be brought again against the same person within six-months of being elected or being such proposal failed. Re-election shall be held if the chairperson is relieved from his/her position. In regard to other office-bearers or members, it shall be done as per this Statute.

26. Amendment to the Statute:

Any amendment to or repeal of any section of the Statute shall be recommended to the Local Authority only after being approved by two-thirds majority of the ordinary members. A Section shall be deemed to have been amended or repealed only after being it approved from the local authority.

27. May Frame Rules:

This Association may frame necessary Rules in course of transaction of its business and an information thereof shall have to be given to the Local Authority.

28. Provision Relating to  Employees:

(1) Creation of employees positions, remuneration, allowances and other facilities as well as conditions of service of the employees shall be as prescribed.

(2) In case the Association has to carry out the functions of the Association having obtained foreign aid and to have agreement of foreign advisory or volunteers, an information as to the details of service to be rendered by them, justification of the work, facilities, their qualification shall be furnished to the Local Authority, District Development Committee and the Social Welfare Council.

29. Dissolution of the Association:

1. The General Meeting may, if it deems necessary, dissolve the Association by adopting special proposal.

2. The General Meeting may, while adopting the proposal for dissolution of the Association pursuant to sub-Section (1) appoint one or more liquidators for the function of dissolution and one or more auditors to settle the accounts of the Association.

3. Remuneration of the liquidators and the auditors so appointed pursuant to sub-section (2) shall be as prescribed by the General Meeting.

4. If the Association is so dissolved for any reason, the remaining property of the Association, after settling its liability, shall devolve on the Government of Nepal.

30. Interpretation:

The Working Committee of the Association shall have the power to interpret this Statute and Rules and Bye-laws framed under this Statute.

31. Secrecy not to be Disclosed:

No any Office-bearers or any Members of this Association shall carry out any work in contrary to the interest of the Association. No office-bearer of the Working Committee members of the General Meeting shall use uncivilized or vulgar words in the meetings.

32. To be According to the Act:

Matters not mentioned in this Statute shall be according to the prevailing laws and any provision inconsistent with the Association Registration Act, Rule and prevailing laws shall be ineffective to the extent of such inconsistency.

33. Compliance with Directions:

It shall be the duty of the Association to comply with the directives issued by the Government of Nepal or Local Authority from time to time.

34. Ad-Hoc Committee:

1. The Ad-Hoc Committee constituted for the establishment and registration of this Association shall convene the General Meeting within six months and constitute an election committee pursuant to the Statute and conduct an election for the new Working Committee; and the information thereof shall be given to the Local Authority.

2. Until the pending of holding the first election, the functions carried out by the Working Committee shall be deemed to have been carried out as per this Statute.

35. We, the below mentioned founders of the "Nepal Environment Education Project" have agreed to carry out functions as per this Statute and signed in presence of the following witnesses:

Name, surname and address of the founder members. Name, surname, address and signature of witnesses.

1. Name: Mr. Rishi Prasad Nepal

President

Ward No. 1 of Phulkharka V.D.C., Dhading District, Bagmati Zone.

Signature: Sd. 1. Name: Mr. Bhanu Adhikari

Ward No. 2 of Phulkharka V.D.C., Dhading District, Bagmati Zone.

Signature: Sd.

2. Name: Mr. Narayan Nepal

Ward No. 1 of Phulkharka V.D.C., Dhading District, Bagmati Zone.

Signature: Sd. 2. Name: Mr. Shaligram Aryal

Ward No. 1 of Prithivinagar Municipality, Gokha District, Gandaki Zone.

Signature: Sd.

3. Name: Ms. Gayatri Nepal

Ward No. 1 of Phulkharka V.D.C., Dhading District, Bagmati Zone.

Signature: Sd. 3. Name: Mr. Jivan Gurung

Ward No. 7 of Masel V.D.C. Gokha District, Gandaki Zone.

Signature: Sd.

4. Name: Ms. Laxmi Nepal

Ward No. 1 of Phulkharka V.D.C., Dhading District, Bagmati Zone.

Signature: Sd. 4. Name: Mr. Prem Bahadur Barami

Ward No.1 of Masel V.D.C., Gokha District, Gandaki Zone.

Signature: Sd.

5. Name: Mr. Dhurba Kumar Adhikari

Ward No. 2 of Phulkharka V.D.C., Dhading District, Bagmati Zone.

Signature: Sd. 5. Name: Mr. Amrit Bhattarai

Ward No.8 of Masel V.D.C., Gokha District, Gandaki Zone.

Signature: Sd.

6. Name: Mr. Mistar Adhikari

Ward No. 2 of Phulkharka V.D.C., Dhading District, Bagmati Zone.

Signature: Sd. 6. Name: Mr. Bal Kumar Baniya

Ward No. 1 of Phulkharka V.D.C., Dhading District, Bagmati Zone.

Signature: Sd.

7. Name: Mr. Kamal Prasad Rimal

Ward No. 9 of Salyankot V.D.C., Dhading District, Bagmati Zone.

Signature: Sd. 7. Name: Mr. Devraj Adhikari

Ward No. 1 of Phulkharka V.D.C., Dhading District, Bagmati Zone.

Signature: Sd.

Annex – 1

Seal and Emblem of the Association

A rectangular shaped box shall be divided in three parts, the background of the upper part shall be in blue colour, in the middle there shall be semi lunar white background where two children shall be studying and in the lower part there shall be four mountain peaks having written NEEP in them.

As I begin to write this article, the physical taxing of my brains begin to take its toll, because I have to go down memory lane – way back to the ninth grade during my schooling years; & this included looking for the essay I wrote after our trip to Goa, just about 2 hours from Bombay. I remember we had gone out there on a science or biological excursion in 1972 in the month of February, a ten day outing that was a part of our studies related to marine science; organized by the school I studied in at that time. Through the education ministry of the state of West Bengal, who worked out a package with the luxury resorts straddling the beaches of Goa for our biological holidays, we contributed our share of the spoils by paying our part of the cost…& merrily set out on our tour. We were a batch of 29 students from Gothalls Memorial School, based in Kurseong of Darjeeling district, in West Bengal. We boarded our train from Calcutta, the capital of this enterprising state in the subcontinent of India…& so began my first tryst with the green word called ‘ECOTOURISM’ & a thorough understanding of what this word actually meant…as I look back down the years, because till this day, I’ve dedicated approximately 20 years of the prime time in my lifetime to Nepal’s tourism sector; & have now begun to see, after all these years, the true meaning of ECOTOURISM, & what it should be, but is factually not…& so begins my story which took of on that moonlit night in the spring of February when the station master began to blow his whistle & wave his flag, signaling the take-off of the train we boarded from Howrah railway station in the mega city of Calcutta. My Eco story, read on:

I looked back down the years & imagined the scene then. We are sitting in the bright sunshine beside the swimming pool of our luxury resort, sipping our cola sodas. In front of me is the beach, reserved for the resort guests with motor boats for hire. Behind me is an 18 hole golf course, which was cleared from the native forest & is kept green from the hundreds of water sprinklers (imagine the amount of green forests destroyed to get this golf course going}. Around the hotel are familiar international restaurant chains & the same kind of shops that you see around home. I’ve seen some of the local folks around {the friendly goanese people} some of them sell handicrafts outside the hotel.

I bought a small wooden statue & after bargaining something like for half an hour, I paid only a quarter of the price for what the vendor was actually asking for. Pretty cheap, one would reckon! Is this your idea of paradise on earth or would you prefer something different?

These days, most of us try to live in an imaginary world where we seemingly try to minimum the damages we cause to our environment, we recycle our newspapers & bottles, we hop the local bus to get to work, we attempt to buy locally produced fruits & veggies & we stopped using aerosol sprays  years ago. And then we want to take these attitudes on holidays with us; or so we imagine. This is why, perhaps, so many alternative forms of tourism are becoming more popular by the day all over the world.

So what is the real ECOTOURISM?  Do we know its true meaning? Do we actually follow its preservation norms? How many trees were cut down for me to buy that wooden statue? Those statues were available in every shop found around the resorts near the beaches where we stayed. It’s obvious the trees were cut to shape those statues; were they cut legally? Was there a forestry rule where you cut one grow two??

Inadvertently, there are lots of names for these so called new forms of tourism: responsible tourism, alternative tourism, sustainable tourism, nature tourism, adventure tourism, educational tourism…& more, you could think of other names rampantly; but where is all this taking us? Do we have Ecotourism inspectors to monitor if this is all for real? Ecotourism probably involves a little of all the forms just mentioned. Everyone has a different definition but most people would agree that ECOTOURISM must:

• Conserve the wildlife & culture of the area…RIGIDLY
• Benefit the local people & involve the local community…PRACTICALLY
• Be sustainable in the true sense of the WORD, that is make a profit without destroying natural resources
• Provide the kind of experience & EVIDENCE that TOURISTS’ want to pay for

Now let’s look at the practical applications; for example, in a true Ecotourism project, a nature reserve allows a small number of tourists to visit its rare fauna & uses the money that is generated to continue with important conservation work. The local folks get jobs in the nature reserve as guides & wardens, but also have a voice in how the project develops. Tourists visiting the park stay in local houses with the local people, not in the luxury resorts I saw in Goa. In this way they experience the local culture & do not take away precious energy & water from the local community. They travel on foot, by a locally built boat {not motor boats) or by cycle or on an elephant’s back & in this way we have no pollution. Visitors soon realize they’ve enjoyed a special experience that they will remember for all of their lives.

The kind of tourism we just discussed can only involve a small number of people so this can be expensive, but you can apply the basic principles of Ecotourism wherever you go on holidays. Always keep in mind the fundamental rules that needs only the minimum of common sense to love the earth you live on; they are:+ Always be prepared. Learn something about the place you are going to visit. Get to know something about its culture & history. Learn a little of the native language, especially in the most required areas of ‘please’, ‘thank you’, ‘good morning’ & ‘this is so nice’. Don’t only think of your holiday as something to ‘blow your tops of over the hill to enjoy’, look at your holidays as also an opportunity to learn something.

+ Don’t waste natural resources. If the area you visit is facing water problems, don’t go for a double shower everyday. Remember the old adage: ‘leave nothing behind you except footprints & take nothing away accept photographs’. Take as much care as you can of the places you visit, just like you would do at your own home. Never buy souvenirs made from endangered animals or plants; this is one thing I learnt in Goa.

+ Buy local products whenever possible & pay a fair price for what you buy

+ Always remember that the word ‘ECO’ is a very fashionable word today & a lot of the holidays that are advertised as ‘ECOTOURISM’ are not really better than the traditional tourism that’s common place in all its conventional forms…just don’t go for the bait.

It’s only us as ‘individuals’ when we travel to realize what it takes to love & protect ‘Mother Earth’. Its really up to us only to make a wonderful thing called ‘ECOTOURISM’ happen the way it should be…& this can only come from within; an in-depth love for everything natural that preserves our earth the way GOD created it…because all things bright & beautiful, all creatures great & small, all things wise & wonderful…the good Lord made them all…let’s remember these words always when we plan to go out on holidays; we’ll enjoy it more perhaps.

By David Panchakoti
An ECO worker
For Encountersnepal

Nepal…Adventure Tourism within new landscapes in the Great Himalayan Trail’s networks…with EncountersNepal.com & the contributions it can make to this great effort.

Trekking, History, Nature at its absolute best and a virtual paradise for adventure in Nepal; this is The Great Himalayan Trail {GHT] & EncountersNepal.com seeks to play a vital role in discovering new avenues within the ‘GHT’ trail development for Nepal’s goal in defining greater scopes for Adventure Tourism in the years ahead.

The Great Himalaya Trail is a network of existing wonder treks and tremendous trails which together form one of the longest and highest walking trails in the world.

A maze of hiking paths beneath the world’s highest peaks and visiting some of the most remote communities on earth, it passes through lush green valleys, arid high plateaus and unbelievable landscapes. Nepal’s GHT is made up of 10 sections comprising a network of upper and lower routes, each offering you something different, be it adventure and exploration, authentic cultural experiences, or simply spectacular Himalayan nature of immense beauty.

The trekking routes in Nepal…many trodden by ‘Encounters Nepal’ while escorting its guests through some of the most rugged territories on earth…

The 1,700 km Nepal section of the trail takes its roots near Kanchenjunga on the eastern border and heads west navigating the domains of eight of the world’s 8000m peaks, from the beautiful but lesser-known Makalu to the famous Everest. It is not the easiest or most direct route across Nepal, but is rather a route through the Greater Himalaya. The Nepal section concludes at Humla on the Tibetan border.

The route offers an incredible diversity in terms of landscapes, flora & fauna, people and culture: from snow leopards to red pandas; from sub-tropical jungle to fragile high-altitude eco-systems; from the famous Sherpas, to Shamanism, to the ancient Bön Buddhist culture found existing till date in Dolpa. It’s a stunning mix within an environment of Mother Nature, animals, diverse communities & the calming divine powers of God.

The National Geographic Adventure Magazine‘s Jame’s Vlahos observes, “Nepal’s mountains are developed to the minimum, but they offer a massive wealth of trade and pilgrimage routes. The GHT elegantly connects these existing paths without blazing a single new trail.”

The Nepal section is part of a longer alpine adventure traversing the spine of the Himalaya from Bhutan to Pakistan. These sections are currently being researched, trekked and documented & Encounters Nepal will play its role to the hilt in finding more routes as there is still a lot of Great Himalaya Trail exploring yet to be done!

EncountersNepal.com seeks to make a difference

Nepal is a poor country and tourism contributes an important 4% of GDP. However, this is seemingly more concentrated, as far as trekking is concerned, in the 3 most popular areas of Solo Khumbu (Everest) region, the Annapurna region and Langtang. These regions are so far deemed to be used the most.

By trekking off the beaten track, you will making a direct difference to communities in these areas by spending money on food, accommodation or services such as guides, porters and cooks. And you’ll be venturing into some of the most incredible places on earth, meeting people following ancient cultures and experiencing unique discoveries that may change your life forever.

Many people from around the world come to Nepal to get away from the crowds and to seek challenge and adventure, and equally vibrant nature or solitude from the dregs of materialism. That is more than possible in Nepal & EncountersNepal.com ensures that its guests get the most out of holidays that gratify the expenses they incur within eco-friendly environments that bring more zest & zeal to the time they spend in Nepal.

Few will have the time to attempt the whole arduous trekking routes, so it is broken up into sections and short treks along the trail. There are many more places to visit in Nepal than just Annapurna, Everest or Langtang, beautiful as they are! Take Dolpa, Rara or Jumla for instance…

Not many people have hiked the length of the Himalayas in the last few decades (and written about it). However, there have been some expeditions with the goal either of traversing Nepal or going further trying to traverse the greater Himalaya range. Adventure enthusiasts are constantly seeking new terrain with newer landscapes less used by others.

In 1982, Arlene Blum and travel and adventure writer Hugh Swift became the first westerners to complete a 4,500 km great Himalayan traverse across Bhutan, Nepal and India. Starting from the eastern border of Bhutan, Swift and Blum, climbed up and down the Himalayan range over 6,000m passes and down to river valleys at 600m, gaining and losing an average of 1,000m each day to reach Ladakh. This is documented in her book – ‘Breaking Trail’. This is evidence of how eager people can be to discover the unknown from the known; & this is where Encounters Nepal wishes to meet & enlighten the aspirations of such ardent adventure seekers by accompanying the bold & brave through some of the most remote outpost on the planet, helping them to achieve dreams hesitantly expected. There are almost countless villages that can be connected; the Himalayas are immensely vast & options are so many…there is a trail for everyone, virtually!

Before embarking on any mountain adventure, Encounters Nepal suggests you should carefully research your trail options and check that you have all the field-craft and experience necessary to attempt the route to wish to hike through. We always encourage volunteers to research new and existing trails throughout the Himalaya, if that sounds exciting then please contact us! We’d be glad to help you.

As we continue to be a part of the overall GHT concept, an ever-expanding group of organisations and individuals have come together to help support the GHT and give feedback benefits to those who rely on the Himalaya for their livelihood and home.

EncountersNepal.com has developed Codes of Conduct for trekkers and those who seek a tryst in the wild to promote sustainable and responsible activities. You can support the GHT Alliance through promoting the Codes of Conduct, by providing financial support for a GHT Alliance program and by joining treks run by GHT Alliance partners.

We have worked with & supported trekkers for years; we hope you go through our website & find it useful in serving your holidays dreams!

Enrich your Happiness by enjoying the trails with EncountersNepal.com! Serving you is a way of life for us down here…

Mr. Rishi Nepal, the Founder & President of Encounters Nepal.com is an illustrious tourism entrepreneur who has been actively involved in the travel & tourism business for almost a decade & half. He actively dedicates himself in promoting the entire Himalayan region of Nepal in the tourism arena. His zest, zeal and gusto have led the company to new heights. Under his leadership, the company has seen some of the best of times. A well known figure in the Nepal tourism industry, Mr. Nepal has come a long way today. He served as an Executive member of the Trekking Agents Association of Nepal {TAAN} from 2007-09 and is now in the advisory panel of the same. Rishi is a go-getter in this industry & his contribution and achievement in the field of Tourism and Himalayan adventure is recognized by one & all. Rishi attributes his success to his ‘LOVE FOR THE LAND’ {Nepal}, & its landlocked geography.

Mr. Rishi Prasad Nepal was born on the 13th May, 1979 at Bhumesthan of Phulkharka Village in the district of Dhading, North of Nepal.

Mr. Nepal is the proprietor of EncountersNepal.com {an Eco - adventure company based in Thamel} and associated very closely with several Social Service organizations that include President of Nepal Environmental Education Project(NEEP),President of Mandali Ex-Student Club ,Man Mohan Memorial Community Hospital (a trust formed under the ex-Prime Minister of Nepal} Founder- President of Shuvakamana English Boarding School in Kathmandu, and also has shares in two financial cooperative institutions. In addition to this, Mr. Nepal is also an active promoter of the Tourism Development Bank also based in Thamel of Kathmandu and is an ongoing active member of the Nepal Mountaineering Association {NMA}. He is also an Executive Member of the Trekking Agents Association of Nepal {TAAN} from 2007 through 2009, respectively. Mr. Nepal has taken great pleasure from the tasks he has been involved in; both in the past and the present and seeks to continue serving his fellow beings and society as a whole for the general good welfare of his country Nepal.

In addition to this, Mr. Rishi Nepal is a representative of the American MetLife Insurance Co. {formerly known as ALICO – American Life Insurance Company} headquartered in the USA & is much involved as a member of  the Dhading Paryartan Society; his home district.

Mr. Nepal has traveled extensively to 18 different countries for matters relating to work & in the promotion of his business since the year 2004 till date & has beneficially used the experience gained from these visits for the betterment of his country Nepal & the international community in general. Mr. Nepal wishes to continue in his endeavors for the economical prosperity of Nepal & to upgrade its status as a major tourists’ destination throughout the world.

Some brief facts about Mr. Rishi Nepal’s birthplace:

Mr. Nepal was born in the beautiful village of Phulkharka situated on the laps of the famous Mt. Manaslu, which is linked to the huge hillocks of Ganga-Jamuna and Ganesh Himal in-between 45 Kilometers from the District headquarters of Dhading Besi which lies 124 Kilometers from the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu.

In Nepali, the word ‘phul’ means flower and for its namesake, ‘Phulkharka’ is the ‘garden’ of many ethnic groups who hail from the Hindu, Buddhist, Christian and Muslim communities; all living under one roof in peace & harmony with one another in this beautiful  scenic village.

The north side of the village stands from 1600m to 2926 meter above sea level & consists of some 1000 households in its area. There are many other sub villages in Phulkharka which are: Phulkharka, Sadan, Dumla, Payukharka, Dhadkharka, Katike, Lapsibot, Dadathok, Bhadaure, Bhumesthan, Mathillo Tole, Majuwa, Kalleri, Bhirkubnan, Dhangshing and ekle basti. The famous waterfalls of Ganga-Jamuna are also located in the same village development Committee area of Phulkharka.

The warm & friendly people of Phulkharka believe in hard work and sincerely seek to develop the village society itself through various means of information & awareness programs that are available within the area of Phulkharka. Ironically, & something which is common all over Nepal; the village of Phulkharka has not been influenced by any political parties or gender, color and race. The people of Phulkhaka are much united for the sustainable development of the village as well as in uplifting their lifestyles through small but yet effective social development programs. Unity in diversity is one of the primary characteristics of all Phulkarkians who seek better lives & greener pastures in comparison to other villages clustered around throughout the country.

The village of Phulkharka, which more or less has a military background since ancient times, but however, & at present, most folks in the village also welcomes the changes brought about by its revolutionaries of yester years. The residents of Phulkharka are mainly involved in Tourism, Banking, Law, the Military, Police, and Teaching, the Health sector, Engineering & other fields as well etc, in serving the nation by all pragmatic means available at its disposal. The highly enterprising people of Phulkharka are not only active in Nepal but its members are also found to be equally active abroad.

The beautiful landscapes of Phulkharka village are surely seen in the very ingenious lifestyle of its sons & daughters & it is felt that this village will very soon in the near future be an example of how hard work determines Success among all the other villages of this developing nation.

The founding company Encounters Nepal dot com (P) Ltd. is a well known name among travelers to Nepal today. This organization has been formed with over a decade of experience in Himalayan exploration and also covers all aspects of travel within the tourism sector of Nepal. We started with a small group of people with big dreams that we wanted to translate into reality. We have served adventurers from all corners of the globe; & we serve them till this day. We have toiled our way up to becoming major operators with a sound reputation in the travel business that crosses over a decade in planning and implementing unique trekking programs and interesting historical tours throughout Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan. After studying and researching the whole gamut of tourism in Nepal we decided to establish our own trek company Encounters Nepal.com with the sole purpose of being more service oriented than commercially inclined in all areas of our operations.

We are a wholly Nepalese-owned company, having been in business for more than a decade. Based in the world’s most famous tourists’ hub of Asia - THAMEL; we specialize in escorted adventure tours to spectacular destinations throughout the Himalaya across 3 countries. Our mission is to share our passion for travel with like-minded people.

We don't subscribe to the normal concept of escorted travel. Our tours are not for those who want to be herded around in large groups, seeing sights merely from the inside of buses. We treat each of our travelers as an individual, appreciating that each has individual interests. Wherever possible we try to accommodate these in our tours, in addition to the wonderful programs we provide.

Rather than envelop you within the countries we visit, we will expose you to the true cultures and realities of travel within these marvelous and unique destinations. Where possible we avoid areas dominated by mass-tourism, instead seeking out hidden treasures rarely visited and experienced.

We hope you find our tours attractive, exciting and enticing. And we hope that someday soon you will join us for the adventure of a lifetime!

Our Wealth of Experience

Building on a decade of down-to-earth experience and deep understanding of mountains, people and the spirit of exploration Encounters Nepal.com provides the highest quality trek, tour and expedition services in Nepal and beyond. We’ve done so many treks across the Himalaya to draw on & our trek leaders are so familiar with the terrain they’ve trodden on they could eye a familiar bush or fauna from a mile. You can be rest assured that you, your family, colleagues or peers will enjoy holidays with Encounters Nepal.com that will be all you ever hoped it to be and much more.

Client Care

Encounters Nepal.com today employs highly experienced, friendly and loyal staffs who are Sherpa specialists in technical mountain skills and safety. These guides literally enjoy their jobs. We also have skilled, innovative and adaptable cooks who prepare delicacies from products grown on the rugged mountains besides western food. Our guides are multilingual (French, German and English) & are highly capable in communication that understands the problems of guests at any given time. We are all here to make sure your trip runs smoothly and is everything you imagined the way it should have been.

We’ve learnt to Love our Environment... The hard way...

We are extremely committed to preserving the natural environment & its fragile eco systems. We plan your holidays and make doubly sure that the area is kept clean on the conclusion of our programs. We strictly adhere to the norms of the International Porters Protection Group (www.ippg.net) and make sure our guides and porters are well equipped and geared to providing you flawless services, always keeping in mind at all times first and foremost; your safety and protection throughout your program. Our country possesses some of the most rugged but beautiful terrain on earth & we have learnt to love it under some of the most difficult circumstances. We are sure you will feel the same way as us too.

After having left your footprints in our world…we sincerely hope you will return back home with superb memories of holidays you will have probably enjoyed only once in a lifetime. We hope to see you soon!!!

ENCOUNTERS NEPAL.COM...

We won’t let the sun go down on you...

Rishi Nepal (Managing Director)

Some additional regulation

Special case for Everest normal south-east ridge but if there less than seven members, the royalty structure are as follows:

More than one team may be permitted to climb Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) by each separate route in one season.

A Permit fee of USD $50,000 has been fixed for Sagarmatha for a team consisting of 7 members. The team may include 5 more members provided if it pays USD $10,000 for each additional member. The permit fee includes trekking fee of the team members. The team members will be granted three months visas.

In all regions (Except south east ridge for Everest) including Khumbu, an expedition team can have up to 7 members for the minimum permit fee, and 5 more members for the additional permit fee.

The team already permitted to scale Sagarmatha will have to pay USD $10,000 if it intends to change the ascent route. It will have to pay additional USD $20,000 if it intends to change the ascent route to normal South East Ridge route.

For peaks other than Sagarmatha, the team will have to pay additional 25 % of the permit fee in US Dollars to change the ascent route.

Expedition team must complete all necessary administrative formalities and procedures in order to send back garbage of the expedition team to their countries, after the completion of the expedition. Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation will take necessary monetary deposit from them, which will be refunded after the dispatch of garbage from Nepal.

Each climbing team will be permitted with the written application form, indicating a partner trekking agency whom registered to the Government and accompanied by a sirdar/guide, who must be registered with Nepal Mounta


Garbage deposit for peaks in all region
Rules effective from 1992 and as revision in Spring 2002.
The ministry of tourism has fixed the price of the deposit for the management of garbage's by each mountaineering team.

Garbage deposit fee of Khumbu and Annapurna Regions' Mountains are as follows.

Garbage deposit fees of other regions' mountains are as follows.

Recycling materials should be brought to Kathmandu and handover to a prescribed agency for recycling and the re-exportable goods should be dispatched from Nepal to their respective countries and take back the deposited amount.

No Liaison officers for Expeditions under 6500m peaks.
Government has revised the existing mandatory system of deputing the Liaison Officer to every expedition team to the Himalayan peaks. As per the current provision peaks ranging below 6500 meters including the old and new do not require Liaison Officer anymore with effect from upcoming Spring season 2002 (March 1, 2002).

No recommendation letters.
Nepali peaks are now open for climbers throughout the year after the government scrapped the policy of granting permits in different seasons like spring, summer, autumn and winter. And the recommendation of national alpine clubs will not be required from now on to acquire climbing permits

http://www.encountersnepal.com/en/mountaineering

This type of tour has a significant importance in the promotion of ethical and rural tourism. Knowing the fact that tourism helps the people living in the rural areas, we have designed this tour including the visits to the World Heritage Sites. People living in the rural areas could share their interests and needs. The tour also has an approach with the school children in a village and some deprived people in such areas. These children and people could be benefited by such visits. The entire tour is inspired culturally so that a tourist coming from other parts of the world could enjoy it. This type of tour is designed specially for those people who would prefer a relaxed tour with full of ethnic excursions.

Tour Itinerary

DAY 01
Arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, meet Encounters Nepal.com representative and transfer to Hotel.

DAY 02
After breakfast, guided city tour to the world heritage sites of the Capital: Swoyambhunath, Boudhanath and Pashupatinath, the sacred places of Kathmandu.

DAY 03
After breakfast, guided tour to the world heritage sites of Patan and Bhaktapur. Visit of "Mahaguthi Craft with a Conscience", drive to Nagarkot.

DAY 04
After breakfast, drive for six hours trip in a private bus/car to the national park of Chitwan, in South Nepal, transfer to a Resort.

DAY 05
Full day activities: elephant safari, bird watching, and jungle walk with local guide, canoeing. In the evening, cultural program: Tharu stick dance.

DAY 06
Meet the minority people-Tharu community. Visit a School where children could have environmental interaction programs with you.

DAY 07
After breakfast, drive to Lumbini, Lord Buddha’s birthplace (623 BC), listed as listed as world heritage site by UNESCO. On the way, visit a craft workshop (fair trade): traditional bamboo items.

DAY 08
After breakfast, continuation of the visit. The Sacred Garden where Buddha was born and the monasteries.

DAY 09
After breakfast, fly to Kathmandu. Transfer to Hotel, visit of Kathmandu Durbar Square, another world heritage site. In the evening, musical dinner with the Gandharbas, from an "untouchable" cast.

DAY 10
AM: Free time. PM: Documentary show in the evening about the Bagmati River, the God-River, which is now very dirty and in danger.

DAY 11
Mountain flight in the morning over the Himalaya. After lunch, shopping in Ason Tole: the typical area where an important local market spreads out. In the evening, dinner with cultural dance.

DAY 12
Farewell and transfer to international airport for onward flight.

Included:

• Tour/Trek pre-departure information, Guide
• Hotel accommodation as per mentioned in the itinerary on a twin share basis with breakfast at Standard Hotels
• All internal transport by private car
• All group airport transfers
• All meals while on safari tour
• All meals as per during the visits at different places, tea or coffee
• All entrance fees to the monuments and parks
• Welcome drinks in Kathmandu

Excluded:

• Bar and beverages
• Nature of personal expenses
• Personal cloths
• Insurance for accidental, medical and evacuation
• Tips to the staff
• Airport tax

DAY 01
Arrival Kathmandu, reception at the airport by a representative of Encounters Nepal, transfer to a Hotel in Kathmandu. Welcome drink. Meet the Manager from Encounters Nepal for tour briefing.

DAY 02
After breakfast, guided city tour to the World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu such as Swoyambhunath (Oldest Buddhist Stupa in the World), Pashupatinath (Hindu’s Temple), Boudhanath (One of the biggest Monastery in the World), Patan Museum, Golden Temple (Buddhists’ Monastery), Tibetan Refugee Camp. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 03
Kathmandu-Lukla-Phakding: This morning you will be transferred from your hotel to the Kathmandu airport for our domestic flight to Lukla. The flight itself is awe-inspiring as we fly parallel to the Himalayan giants bordering Nepal and Tibetan China. Flying time to Lukla is approximately 35 minutes. Upon arrival in Lukla, there will be time to explore the village whilst the Sherpa crew sort and load equipment. Lukla lies at an altitude of (2,850m.) (Luk-la= place of sheep). From Lukla we descend on a wide trail northwest to the village of Choblung in the Dudh Koshi valley. The valley is covered with beautiful pine and rhododendron forest. The walking is easy as we follow the river’s course passing through the village of Ghat. Our destination today is the small village of Phakding where accommodation is provided in the teahouse lodges. It is approximately three hours, walking distance from Lukla to Phakding. Stay overnight at Phakding.

DAY 04
Phakding-Namche Bazaar (3446 m): From Phakding we head up valley on a busy trail. Porters here from the lower Solu district in the south ferry supplies to Namche, while Sherpa with their Zopkio (half yak, half cow) take trekking or climbing expedition equipment to the higher valleys. We continue beside the Dudh Koshi amongst beautiful alpine scenery, through fragrant blue pine and fir forest, glimpsing spectacular views of Kusum Kangru (6,369m) and Thamserku (6,608m) along the way. We again cross the Dudh Koshi to the western bank at Jorsale prior to reaching the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park. Continuing upstream along the banks to the confluence of the Bhote Koshi and Dudh Koshi, we begin our first sustained ascent to Namche Bazaar after crossing the large suspension bridge. Walking at a slow pace, we have fantastic photographic opportunities as the peaks of Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,511m), Nuptse (7,879m), Ama Dablam (6,856m), and Taweche (6,542m) come into view for the first time. Climbing again, the path takes us through pine trees to reach the distinctive horse-shoe shaped bowl containing the town of Namche Bazaar. It is approximately four hours, walking distance from Phakding to Namche. Stay overnight at Namche Bazaar.

DAY 05
Namche Bazaar excursion / rest: Today is a full day of rest to acclimatize. As the name suggests, Namche is famous for its local market or Bazaar (held on Saturday). Each week Sherpas from the surrounding villages come to buy food and to socialize. Any food not grown locally, such as rice, corn and some vegetables, is brought in from the lowland villages, which can be up to a six to ten days walk from Namche Bazaar. Rising early, those who climb to the ridge above Namche will be rewarded with the stunning dawn and sunrise over the panorama of the Khumbu peaks. Spend the morning exploring this colorful and lovely spectacle. Perhaps walk along the Thame valley in the afternoon or visit the national park headquarters to see the interesting displays of Sherpa lifestyle and culture and photographic displays of famous mountaineering expeditions. Stay overnight in Namche Bazaar.

DAY 06
Namche Bazaar-Tengboche (3867 m): After breakfast, our trek leads to Fungi Thenga for lunch. After lunch we ascend another two hours to reach Tengboche where we pay a visit to the Monastery with our guide. It is approximately five hours, walking distance from Namche to Tengboche. Stay overnight in Tengboche.

DAY 07
Tengboche-Namche Bazaar: The route descends to Phunki Thangka, and then ascends the ridge towards Namche Bazaar. It is approximately three hours walking distance from Tengboche to Namche Bazaar. Stay overnight in Namche Bazaar.

DAY 08
Namche Bazaar-Phakding-Lukla: Trek all the way back to Lukla, an air step.

DAY 09
Lukla-Kathmandu: The flight from Lukla to Kathmandu takes 35 minutes. Transfer to Hotel and rest.

DAY 10
Rest day and shopping in the afternoon. Stay overnight at Hotel.

DAY 11
Farewell and transfer to international airport for onward flight.

Included:

• Tour/Trek pre-departure information, Guide
• Hotel accommodation as per mentioned in the itinerary on a twin share basis with breakfast at Standard Hotels
• All internal transport by private car
• All group airport transfers
• Gear package including sleeping bag, jacket and rain poncho
• All meals while trekking, tea or coffee
• Safe drinking water in a refilling bottle in order to avoid plastic bottles in the mountain
• Accommodation on a share basis in teahouse on trek
• An insured Porter to carry all personal and group equipment
• All entrance fees to the monuments and parks
• Emergency first aid kit box
• Welcome drinks in Kathmandu

Excluded:

• Bar and beverages
• Nature of personal expenses
• Personal cloths
• Insurance for accidental, medical and evacuation
• Tips to the staff
• Meals during journey and in Kathmandu

DAY 01
Arrival Kathmandu, reception at the airport by a representative of Encounters Nepal, transfer to a Hotel in Kathmandu. Welcome drink. Meet the Manager from Encounters Nepal for tour briefing.

DAY 02
After breakfast, guided city tour to the World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu such as Swoyambhunath (Oldest Buddhist Stupa in the World), Pashupatinath (Hindu’s Temple), Boudhanath (One of the biggest Monastery in the World), Patan Museum, Golden Temple (Buddhists’ Monastery), Tibetan Refugee Camp. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 03
After breakfast, drive by car for 200kms through the scenic highway on the bank of the Trisuli River to Pokhara, transfer to a Hotel.

DAY 04
After breakfast, city tour in Pokhara such as Devi’s Fall (Natural Water Fall), Gupteshwor Cave and boating on Fewa Lake for one hour in the afternoon. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 05
Pokhara to Tikhedhunga (1577m): About 45 kms drive from Pokhara via Naudanda, Kande, and Lumle village up to Nayapul. From where the trail descends steeply to Birethanti & follows the east bank of Bhurungdi Khola. Lunch will be served at Ramghai and finally reaches to Tikhedhunga. Stay overnight at Tikhedhunga at a teahouse. Walking distance is 5 hours.

DAY 06
Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2855m): The trail ascends to Ulleri village more pleasantly through Rhododendron forest arrive at the top of Ghorepani pass & stay overnight at a teahouse. Walking distance is 6 hours.

DAY 07
Ghorepani – Poon hill (3210m) – Tadapani (2650m.): The guide will wake you up early morning for 6-hour walk up to Tadapani via Poonhill. Poonhill is one of the best viewpoints in Nepal from where one may witness the sunrise for a lifetime memory & 30 snow capped peaks including the whole Annapurna range. Stay overnight at Tadapani at a teahouse. Walking distance is 6 hours.

DAY 08
Tadapani to Ghandruk (1960m): This area is the finest & most famous trekking area of Nepal. The Annapurna ranges & Machhapuchre (Fishtail) dominates the mountain views through glimpses farther east to Lamjung Himal & the Manaslu range. The trial descends through huge boulders into the maze of trails around Ghandruk at 1960 meters. Stay overnight at Ghandruk at a teahouse. Walking distance is 4 hours.

DAY 09
Ghandruk to Pokhara via Birethanti (1040m): Descending Pokhara via Birethanti one can see mules loaded with goods en-route. Walking distance is 5 hrs. Continue walk up to Nayapul (New-bridge) & drive to Pokhara for two hours.

DAY 10
After breakfast, drive back for 200kms through the bank of the Trisuli River to Kathmandu, transfer to Hotel.

DAY 11
Rest day and shopping in the afternoon. Stay overnight at Hotel.

DAY 12
Farewell and transfer to international airport for onward flight.

Included:

• Tour/Trek pre-departure information, Guide
• Hotel accommodation as per mentioned in the itinerary on a twin share basis with breakfast at Standard Hotels
• All internal transport by private car
• All group airport transfers
• Gear package including sleeping bag, jacket and rain poncho
• All meals while trekking, tea or coffee
• Safe drinking water in a refilling bottle in order to avoid plastic bottles in the mountain
• Accommodation on a share basis in teahouse on trek
• An insured Porter to carry all personal and group equipment
• All entrance fees to the monuments and parks
• Emergency first aid kit box
• Welcome drinks in Kathmandu

Excluded:

• Bar and beverages
• Nature of personal expenses
• Personal cloths
• Insurance for accidental, medical and evacuation
• Tips to the staff
• Meals during journey and in Kathmandu

DAY 01
Arrival Kathmandu, reception at the airport by a representative of Encounters Nepal, transfer to a Hotel in Kathmandu. Welcome drink. Meet the Manager from Encounters Nepal for tour briefing.

DAY 02
After breakfast, guided city tour to the World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu such as Swoyambhunath (Oldest Buddhist Stupa in the World), Pashupatinath (Hindu’s Temple), Boudhanath (One of the biggest Monastery in the World), Patan Museum, Golden Temple (Buddhists’ Monastery), Tibetan Refugee Camp. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 03
After breakfast, guided city tour to the World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu such as Kathmandu Durbar Square (Old Palace), Swoyambhunath (Oldest Buddhist Stupa in the World), then visit Bhaktapur city, the ancient town in Kathmandu. Drive 20kms to Nagarkot, one of the best viewpoints in Nepal. Stay overnight in Nagarkot.

DAY 04
After breakfast, drive by car through the scenic highway on the bank of the Trisuli River. Stop at Fishling for 3 hours rafting on the Trisuli River. Continue drive to Pokhara, transfer to a Hotel..

DAY 05
After breakfast, city tour in Pokhara such as Devi’s Fall (Natural Water Fall), Gupteshwor Cave and boating on Fewa Lake for one hour in the afternoon. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 06
Drive by car early morning for 30 minutes to Sarangkot for Sunrise view and drive back to the Hotel, where you will see a lifetime memory of scenic mountain views including Fishtail and Annapurna. After breakfast, visit Mahendra Pul to view the underground Seti River and International Mountain Museum. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 07
After breakfast, drive back for 200kms through the bank of the Trisuli River to Kathmandu, transfer to Hotel.

DAY 08
Rest day and shopping in the afternoon. Stay overnight at Hotel.

DAY 09
Farewell and transfer to international airport for onward flight.

Included:

• Tour/Trek pre-departure information, Guide
• Hotel accommodation as per mentioned in the itinerary on a twin share basis with breakfast at Standard Hotels
• All internal transport by private car
• All group airport transfers
• Gear package including sleeping bag, jacket and rain poncho
• All meals while trekking, tea or coffee
• Safe drinking water in a refilling bottle in order to avoid plastic bottles in the mountain
• Accommodation on a share basis in teahouse on trek
• An insured Porter to carry all personal and group equipment
• All entrance fees to the monuments and parks
• Emergency first aid kit box
• Welcome drinks in Kathmandu

Excluded:

• Bar and beverages
• Nature of personal expenses
• Personal cloths
• Insurance for accidental, medical and evacuation
• Tips to the staff
• Meals during journey and in Kathmandu

DAY 01
Arrival Kathmandu, reception at the airport by a representative of Encounters Nepal, transfer to a Hotel in Kathmandu. Welcome drink. Meet the Manager from Encounters Nepal for tour briefing.

DAY 02
After breakfast, guided city tour to the World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu such as Swoyambhunath (Oldest Buddhist Stupa in the World), Pashupatinath (Hindu’s Temple), Boudhanath (One of the biggest Monastery in the World), Patan Museum, Golden Temple (Buddhists’ Monastery), Tibetan Refugee Camp. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 03
After breakfast, guided city tour to the World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu such as Kathmandu Durbar Square (Old Palace), Swoyambhunath (Oldest Buddhist Stupa in the World), then visit Bhaktapur city, the ancient town in Kathmandu. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 04
After breakfast, drive by car through the scenic highway on the bank of the Trisuli River. Stop at Fishling for 3 hours rafting on the Trisuli River. Continue drive to Pokhara, transfer to a Hotel..

DAY 05
After breakfast, city tour in Pokhara such as Devi’s Fall (Natural Water Fall), Gupteshwor Cave and visit Mahendra Pul to view the underground Seti River and International Mountain Museum. Boating on Fewa Lake for one hour in the afternoon. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 06
Pokhara to Ghandruk (1960 m) via Birethanti (1040 m): Drive to Nayapul (New-bridge) for two hours. Trek starts from Nayapul. Ascending Ghandruk via Birethanti (1040 mtrs.), one can see mules loaded with goods en-route. Walking distance is 5 hrs. Stay overnight in Ghandruk.

DAY 07
Ghandruk to Tolkha (1770 m): Descend through the paved courtyards of Ghandruk village passing several teahouses. After crossing a stream on a suspension bridge, the trail emerges into the main Modi Khola valley & reaches to Tolkha, a small settlement at 1,710mtrs. Walking distance is 5 hours. Stay overnight in Tolkha.

DAY 08
Tolkha to Pokhara (850 m): The trail descends a forested trail paved with stones. The trail descends passing several teahouses at Bheri Kharka, and then descends further to the head of the canyon & to the ridge at Dhampus (1510mtrs). Continue a few hundred meters along a trail to the road that descends to a taxi stand. Walking distance is 6 hours. Drive from Phedi to Pokhara. Stay overnight in Pokhara.

DAY 09
After breakfast, drive back for 200kms through the bank of the Trisuli River to Kathmandu, transfer to Hotel.

DAY 10
Rest day and shopping in the afternoon. Stay overnight at Hotel.

DAY 11
Farewell and transfer to international airport for onward flight.

Included:

• Tour/Trek pre-departure information, Guide
• Hotel accommodation as per mentioned in the itinerary on a twin share basis with breakfast at Standard Hotels
• All internal transport by private car
• All group airport transfers
• Gear package including sleeping bag, jacket and rain poncho
• All meals while trekking, tea or coffee
• Safe drinking water in a refilling bottle in order to avoid plastic bottles in the mountain
• Accommodation on a share basis in teahouse on trek
• An insured Porter to carry all personal and group equipment
• All entrance fees to the monuments and parks
• Emergency first aid kit box
• Welcome drinks in Kathmandu

Excluded:

• Bar and beverages
• Nature of personal expenses
• Personal cloths
• Insurance for accidental, medical and evacuation
• Tips to the staff
• Meals during journey and in Kathmandu

DAY 01
Arrival Kathmandu, reception at the airport by a representative of Encounters Nepal, transfer to a Hotel in Kathmandu. Welcome drink. Meet the Manager from Encounters Nepal for tour briefing.

DAY 02
After breakfast, guided city tour to the World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu such as Swoyambhunath (Oldest Buddhist Stupa in the World), Pashupatinath (Hindu’s Temple), Boudhanath (One of the biggest Monastery in the World), Patan Museum, Golden Temple (Buddhists’ Monastery), Tibetan Refugee Camp. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 03
After breakfast, guided city tour to the World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu such as Kathmandu Durbar Square (Old Palace), Swoyambhunath (Oldest Buddhist Stupa in the World), then visit Bhaktapur city, the ancient town in Kathmandu. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 04
After breakfast, drive by car for 200kms through the scenic highway on the bank of the River early morning to Pokhara, transfer to a Hotel..

DAY 05
After breakfast, city tour in Pokhara such as Devi’s Fall (Natural Water Fall), Gupteshwor Cave and boating on Fewa Lake for one hour in the afternoon. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 06
Walk for one hour to World Peace Stupa across the Fewa Lake early morning for Sunrise view, walk back to Hotel, where you will see a lifetime memory of scenic mountain views including Fishtail shadowed on Fewa Lake. After breakfast, visit Mahendra Pul to view the underground Seti River and International Mountain Museum. Visit Buddhist Monastery in the afternoon. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 07
After breakfast, drive by car for 230kms via Butwal through the scenic highway by public bus (please note that tourist buses are not available on this route) to Lumbini, Lord Buddha’s birthplace, transfer to a Hotel.

DAY 08
In Lumbini: Lumbini-a world heritage site, is the sacred birthplace of Siddhartha Gautam, the Shakya Prince, the eventual Shakyamunu and the ultimate Buddha - the Enlightened One. It is the holiest pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The main attraction at Lumbini is the sacred Garden that is spread over 8 sq. km. and possesses all the treasures of the historic area. The Mayadevi temple is the main attraction for pilgrims and archeologists alike. To the south of the temple, we find the sacred pond - Puskarni - where Queen Mayadevi had taken a bath just before giving birth to the Buddha. There are more than fifty monasteries around the area. A visit to different monasteries from different Buddhist school gives an important memory. Some of the monasteries are: Chinese monastery, Japanese monastery, Korean monastery, Tibetan monastery, Thai monastery, Srilankan monastery, Burmese (Myanmar) monastery, Indian and Nepalese monasteries.

DAY 09
After breakfast, drive by car for 200kms through the scenic highway to Royal Chitwan National Park for Jungle Safari activities, transfer to a Resort.

DAY 10
Full day Jungle Safari tour.

DAY 11
After breakfast, drive back for 170kms through the bank of the Trisuli River to Kathmandu, transfer to Hotel.

DAY 12
Rest day and shopping in the afternoon. Stay overnight at Hotel.

DAY 13
Farewell and transfer to international airport for onward flight.

Included:

• Tour/Trek pre-departure information, Guide
• Hotel accommodation as per mentioned in the itinerary on a twin share basis with breakfast at Standard Hotels
• All internal transport by private car
• All group airport transfers
• Gear package including sleeping bag, jacket and rain poncho
• All meals while trekking, tea or coffee
• Safe drinking water in a refilling bottle in order to avoid plastic bottles in the mountain
• Accommodation on a share basis in teahouse on trek
• An insured Porter to carry all personal and group equipment
• All entrance fees to the monuments and parks
• Emergency first aid kit box
• Welcome drinks in Kathmandu

Excluded:

• Bar and beverages
• Nature of personal expenses
• Personal cloths
• Insurance for accidental, medical and evacuation
• Tips to the staff
• Meals during journey and in Kathmandu

DAY 01
Arrival Kathmandu, reception at the airport by a representative of Encounters Nepal, transfer to a Hotel in Kathmandu. Welcome drink. Meet the Manager from Encounters Nepal for tour briefing.

DAY 02
After breakfast, guided city tour to the World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu such as Swoyambhunath (Oldest Buddhist Stupa in the World), Pashupatinath (Hindu’s Temple), Boudhanath (One of the biggest Monastery in the World), Patan Museum, Golden Temple (Buddhists’ Monastery), Tibetan Refugee Camp. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 03
After breakfast, guided city tour to the World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu such as Kathmandu Durbar Square (Old Palace), Swoyambhunath (Oldest Buddhist Stupa in the World), then visit Bhaktapur city, the ancient town in Kathmandu. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 04
After breakfast, drive by car for 200kms through the scenic highway on the bank of the Trisuli River to Pokhara, transfer to a Hotel..

DAY 05
After breakfast, city tour in Pokhara such as Devi’s Fall (Natural Water Fall), Gupteshwor Cave and boating on Fewa Lake for one hour in the afternoon. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 06
Walk for one hour to World Peace Stupa across the Fewa Lake early morning for Sunrise view, walk back to Hotel, where you will see a lifetime memory of scenic mountain views including Fishtail shadowed on Fewa Lake. After breakfast, visit Mahendra Pul to view the underground Seti River and International Mountain Museum. Visit Buddhist Monastery in the afternoon. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest

DAY 07
After breakfast, drive by car for 230kms via Butwal through the scenic highway to Lumbini, Lord Buddha’s birthplace, transfer to a Hotel.

DAY 08
In Lumbini: Lumbini-a world heritage site, is the sacred birthplace of Siddhartha Gautam, the Shakya Prince, the eventual Shakyamunu and the ultimate Buddha - the Enlightened One. It is the holiest pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The main attraction at Lumbini is the sacred Garden that is spread over 8 sq. km. and possesses all the treasures of the historic area. The Mayadevi temple is the main attraction for pilgrims and archeologists alike. To the south of the temple, we find the sacred pond - Puskarni - where Queen Mayadevi had taken a bath just before giving birth to the Buddha. There are more than fifty monasteries around the area. A visit to different monasteries from different Buddhist school gives an important memory. Some of the monasteries are: Chinese monastery, Japanese monastery, Korean monastery, Tibetan monastery, Thai monastery, Srilankan monastery, Burmese (Myanmar) monastery, Indian and Nepalese monasteries.

DAY 09
After breakfast, drive back for 170kms through the bank of the Trisuli River to Kathmandu, transfer to Hotel.

DAY 10
Rest day and shopping in the afternoon. Stay overnight at Hotel.

DAY 11
Farewell and transfer to international airport for onward flight.

Included:

• Tour/Trek pre-departure information, Guide
• Hotel accommodation as per mentioned in the itinerary on a twin share basis with breakfast at Standard Hotels
• All internal transport by private car
• All group airport transfers
• Gear package including sleeping bag, jacket and rain poncho
• All meals while trekking, tea or coffee
• Safe drinking water in a refilling bottle in order to avoid plastic bottles in the mountain
• Accommodation on a share basis in teahouse on trek
• An insured Porter to carry all personal and group equipment
• All entrance fees to the monuments and parks
• Emergency first aid kit box
• Welcome drinks in Kathmandu

Excluded:

• Bar and beverages
• Nature of personal expenses
• Personal cloths
• Insurance for accidental, medical and evacuation
• Tips to the staff
• Meals during journey and in Kathmandu

DAY 01
Arrival Kathmandu, reception at the airport by a representative of Encounters Nepal, transfer to a Hotel in Kathmandu. Welcome drink. Meet the Manager from Encounters Nepal for tour briefing.

DAY 02
After breakfast, guided city tour to the World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu such as Swoyambhunath (Oldest Buddhist Stupa in the World), Pashupatinath (Hindu’s Temple), Boudhanath (One of the biggest Monastery in the World), Patan Museum, Golden Temple (Buddhists’ Monastery), Tibetan Refugee Camp. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 03
After breakfast, guided city tour to the World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu such as Kathmandu Durbar Square (Old Palace), Swoyambhunath (Oldest Buddhist Stupa in the World), then visit Bhaktapur city, the ancient town in Kathmandu. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 04
After breakfast, drive by car for 200kms through the scenic highway on the bank of the Trisuli River to Pokhara, transfer to a Hotel.

DAY 05
After breakfast, city tour in Pokhara such as Devi’s Fall (Natural Water Fall), Gupteshwor Cave and boating on Fewa Lake for one hour in the afternoon. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 06
Drive early morning by car for 30 minutes to Sarangkot for Sunrise view and drive back to the Hotel, where you will see a lifetime memory of scenic mountain views including Fishtail and Annapurna. After breakfast, visit Mahendra Pul to view the underground Seti River and International Mountain Museum. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 07
After breakfast, drive by car for 150kms through the scenic highway to Royal Chitwan National Park for Jungle Safari activities, transfer to a Resort.

DAY 08
Full day Jungle Safari tour.

DAY 09
After breakfast, drive back for 170kms through the bank of the Trisuli River to Kathmandu, transfer to Hotel.

DAY 10
Rest day and shopping in the afternoon. Stay overnight at Hotel.

DAY 11
Farewell and transfer to international airport for onward flight.

Included:

• Tour/Trek pre-departure information, Guide
• Hotel accommodation as per mentioned in the itinerary on a twin share basis with breakfast at Standard Hotels
• All internal transport by private car
• All group airport transfers
• Gear package including sleeping bag, jacket and rain poncho
• All meals while trekking, tea or coffee
• Safe drinking water in a refilling bottle in order to avoid plastic bottles in the mountain
• Accommodation on a share basis in teahouse on trek
• An insured Porter to carry all personal and group equipment
• All entrance fees to the monuments and parks
• Emergency first aid kit box
• Welcome drinks in Kathmandu
  
  

Excluded:

• Bar and beverages
• Nature of personal expenses
• Personal cloths
• Insurance for accidental, medical and evacuation
• Tips to the staff
• Meals during journey and in Kathmandu

DAY 01
Arrival Kathmandu, reception at the airport by a representative of Encounters Nepal, transfer to a Hotel in Kathmandu. Welcome drink. Meet the Manager from Encounters Nepal for tour briefing.

DAY 02
After breakfast, guided city tour to the World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu such as Swoyambhunath (Oldest Buddhist Stupa in the World), Pashupatinath (Hindu’s Temple), Boudhanath (One of the biggest Monastery in the World), Patan Museum, Golden Temple (Buddhists’ Monastery), Tibetan Refugee Camp. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 03
After breakfast, guided city tour to the World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu such as Kathmandu Durbar Square (Old Palace), Swoyambhunath (Oldest Buddhist Stupa in the World), then visit Bhaktapur city, the ancient town in Kathmandu. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 04
After breakfast, drive by car through the scenic highway on the bank of the Trisuli River. Stop at Fishling for 3 hours rafting on the Trisuli River. Continue drive to Pokhara, transfer to a Hotel

DAY 05
After breakfast, city tour in Pokhara such as Devi’s Fall (Natural Water Fall), Gupteshwor Cave and boating on Fewa Lake for one hour in the afternoon. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 06
Walk for one hour to World Peace Stupa across the Fewa Lake early morning for Sunrise view, walk back to Hotel, where you will see a lifetime memory of scenic mountain views including Fishtail shadowed on Fewa Lake. After breakfast, visit Mahendra Pul to view the underground Seti River and International Mountain Museum. Visit Buddhist Monastery in the afternoon. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 07
After breakfast, drive by car back for 200kms through the bank of the Trisuli River to Kathmandu, transfer to Hotel.

DAY 08
Rest day and shopping in the afternoon. Stay overnight at Hotel.

DAY 09
Farewell and transfer to international airport for onward flight.

Included:

• Tour/Trek pre-departure information, Guide
• Hotel accommodation as per mentioned in the itinerary on a twin share basis with breakfast at Standard Hotels
• All internal transport by private car
• All group airport transfers
• Gear package including sleeping bag, jacket and rain poncho
• All meals while trekking, tea or coffee
• Safe drinking water in a refilling bottle in order to avoid plastic bottles in the mountain
• Accommodation on a share basis in teahouse on trek
• An insured Porter to carry all personal and group equipment
• All entrance fees to the monuments and parks
• Emergency first aid kit box
• Welcome drinks in Kathmandu

Excluded:

• Bar and beverages
• Nature of personal expenses
• Personal cloths
• Insurance for accidental, medical and evacuation
• Tips to the staff
• Meals during journey and in Kathmandu

DAY 01
Arrival Kathmandu, reception at the airport by a representative of Encounters Nepal, transfer to a Hotel in Kathmandu. Welcome drink. Meet the Manager from Encounters Nepal for tour briefing.

DAY 02
After breakfast, guided city tour to the World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu such as Swoyambhunath (Oldest Buddhist Stupa in the World), Pashupatinath (Hindu’s Temple), Boudhanath (One of the biggest Monastery in the World), Patan Museum, Golden Temple (Buddhists’ Monastery), Tibetan Refugee Camp. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 03
Kathmandu – Sundarijal - Chisapani (Walking distance 4-5 hrs): We drive to Sundarijal, which is 13 km. from Kathmandu. Sundarijal is situated at the elevation of 1350m., trek starts from here. Beyond Sundarijal, the trail climbs continuously through forest to a medieval looking reservoir, the dam and waterworks. The trail leaves the water supply system and climbs steeply to a road to 1550m. Then cross the road and continue climb to the top of the Shivapuri ridge, the first village on the trail with the sprawling Tamang settlement of Milkshake at 1895m. There are few small tea shops where you can sit for a cup of tea and enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the Kathmandu Valley. Beyond Mulkharka, the trail continues to climb steadily. After passing through an army camp, the trail enters the Shivapuri National Park. Most of the Shivapuri ridge is dense forest of pine and oak. Climb continues down the ridge through a forest of oak and rhododendron to Chisapani at 2300m. Stay overnight at Chisapani in a teahouse.

DAY 04
Chisapani - Nagarkot (walking distance 7-8 hrs): After breakfast, we proceed to flat trails for about 3 hours. The trail descends almost two hours then we will reach small village called Chowki Bhanjyang where we will have our lunch. Beyond Chowki Bhabjyang, the trail is flat for almost one and half hours then 30 minutes ascend to arrive at the beautiful Hill station called Nagarkot, situated at an altitude of 2175 m. which provides the grand stand panoramic views of the Himalayas. You can see five of the fourteen tallest mountains in the world, including Mt. Everest (8848 m.). Other mountains are Lhotse (8516 m.), Cho Oyu (8201 m.), Makalu (8463 m.) and Manaslu (8163 m.) and many other lesser summits. The view of the peaks looks gorgeous during Sunrise and Sunset. Stay overnight at a Hotel in Nagarkot.

DAY 05
Nagarkot – Changunarayan - Kathmandu (walking distance 2- 2&½ hrs): After breakfast, an easy walk down to Changunarayan Temple, listed in the world heritage site. This is a fifth century made Temple located over a hillock 15 km. east of Kathmandu and is full of artistic works on metal and wood. Inscription dating back to 464 AD found here are the first epigraphic evidences of Nepalese history. After a visit to this Temple, one can spend more time in Bhaktapur Durbar Square too which is full of arts and culture. There are many monuments of Historical significant places to see over here are five storey Temple known as Nyatapola, 55 Windows Palace, Golden Gate, Lion Gate and many more. From here we drive back to Kathmandu and relax. Stay overnight at a Hotel.

DAY 06
After breakfast, drive by car for 170kms through the scenic highway on the bank of the Trisuli River to Royal Chitwan National Park for Jungle Safari activities, transfer to a Resort.

DAY 07
Full day Jungle Safari tour.

DAY 08
After breakfast, drive back for 170kms through the bank of the Trisuli River to Kathmandu, transfer to Hotel.

DAY 09
Rest day and shopping in the afternoon. Stay overnight at Hotel.

DAY 10
Farewell and transfer to international airport for onward flight.

Included:

• Tour/Trek pre-departure information, Guide
• Hotel accommodation as per mentioned in the itinerary on a twin share basis with breakfast at Standard Hotels
• All internal transport by private car
• All group airport transfers
• Gear package including sleeping bag, jacket and rain poncho
• All meals while trekking, tea or coffee
• Safe drinking water in a refilling bottle in order to avoid plastic bottles in the mountain
• Accommodation on a share basis in teahouse on trek
• An insured Porter to carry all personal and group equipment
• All entrance fees to the monuments and parks
• Emergency first aid kit box
• Welcome drinks in Kathmandu

Excluded:

• Bar and beverages
• Nature of personal expenses
• Personal cloths
• Insurance for accidental, medical and evacuation
• Tips to the staff
• Meals during journey and in Kathmandu

DAY 01
Arrival Kathmandu, reception at the airport by a representative of Encounters Nepal, transfer to a Hotel in Kathmandu. Welcome drink. Meet the Manager from Encounters Nepal for tour briefing.

DAY 02
After breakfast, guided city tour to the World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu such as Swoyambhunath (Oldest Buddhist Stupa in the World), Pashupatinath (Hindu’s Temple), Boudhanath (One of the biggest Monastery in the World), Patan Museum, Golden Temple (Buddhists’ Monastery), Tibetan Refugee Camp. Transfer to Hotel for overnight rest.

DAY 03
Kathmandu – Sundarijal - Chisapani (Walking distance 4-5 hrs): We drive to Sundarijal, which is 13 km. from Kathmandu. Sundarijal is situated at the elevation of 1350m., trek starts from here. Beyond Sundarijal, the trail climbs continuously through forest to a medieval looking reservoir, the dam and waterworks. The trail leaves the water supply system and climbs steeply to a road to 1550m. Then cross the road and continue climb to the top of the Shivapuri ridge, the first village on the trail with the sprawling Tamang settlement of Milkshake at 1895m. There are few small tea shops where you can sit for a cup of tea and enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the Kathmandu Valley. Beyond Mulkharka, the trail continues to climb steadily. After passing through an army camp, the trail enters the Shivapuri National Park. Most of the Shivapuri ridge is dense forest of pine and oak. Climb continues down the ridge through a forest of oak and rhododendron to Chisapani at 2300m. Stay overnight at Chisapani in a teahouse.

DAY 04
Chisapani - Nagarkot (walking distance 7-8 hrs): After breakfast, we proceed to flat trails for about 3 hours. The trail descends almost two hours then we will reach small village called Chowki Bhanjyang where we will have our lunch. Beyond Chowki Bhabjyang, the trail is flat for almost one and half hours then 30 minutes ascend to arrive at the beautiful Hill station called Nagarkot, situated at an altitude of 2175 m. which provides the grand stand panoramic views of the Himalayas. You can see five of the fourteen tallest mountains in the world, including Mt. Everest (8848 m.). Other mountains are Lhotse (8516 m.), Cho Oyu (8201 m.), Makalu (8463 m.) and Manaslu (8163 m.) and many other lesser summits. The view of the peaks looks gorgeous during Sunrise and Sunset. Stay overnight at a Hotel in Nagarkot.

DAY 05
Nagarkot – Changunarayan - Kathmandu (walking distance 2- 2&½ hrs): After breakfast, an easy walk down to Changunarayan Temple, listed in the world heritage site. This is a fifth century made Temple located over a hillock 15 km. east of Kathmandu and is full of artistic works on metal and wood. Inscription dating back to 464 AD found here are the first epigraphic evidences of Nepalese history. After a visit to this Temple, one can spend more time in Bhaktapur Durbar Square too which is full of arts and culture. There are many monuments of Historical significant places to see over here are five storey Temple known as Nyatapola, 55 Windows Palace, Golden Gate, Lion Gate and many more. From here we drive back to Kathmandu and relax. Stay overnight at a Hotel.

DAY 06
Rest day and shopping in the afternoon. Stay overnight at Hotel.

DAY 07
Farewell and transfer to international airport for onward flight.

Included:

• Tour/Trek pre-departure information, Guide
• Hotel accommodation as per mentioned in the itinerary on a twin share basis with breakfast at Standard Hotels
• All internal transport by private car
• All group airport transfers
• Gear package including sleeping bag, jacket and rain poncho
• All meals while trekking, tea or coffee
• Safe drinking water in a refilling bottle in order to avoid plastic bottles in the mountain
• Accommodation on a share basis in teahouse on trek
• An insured Porter to carry all personal and group equipment
• All entrance fees to the monuments and parks
• Emergency first aid kit box
• Welcome drinks in Kathmandu

Excluded:

• Bar and beverages
• Nature of personal expenses
• Personal cloths
• Insurance for accidental, medical and evacuation
• Tips to the staff
• Meals during journey and in Kathmandu