Full Country Name:

Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal (Nepali:)

Capital: Kathmandu (Nepali:, Nepal Bhasa:) is the capital and the largest city of Nepal. Kathmandu is regarded as 'City of Temples'. There are 7 world heritage sites within 20 KMS radius, listed in UNESCOThe city stands at an elevation of approximately 1400 m and is inhabited by about 700,000 people. Kathmandu is the most developed city in Nepal.

Geography: Geography of Nepal is uncommonly diverse. Nepal is of roughly trapezoidal shape, 800 kilometres (500 mi) long and 200 kilometres (125 mi) wide, with an area of 147,181 square kilometres (56,827 sq mi).

Nepal is commonly divided into three physiographic areas: the Mountain, Hill, Siwalik region and Terai Regions. These ecological belts run east-west and are vertically intersected by Nepal's major, north to south flowing river systems.

Neighboring countries:

1)India – East, West and South

2) China – North

Area: 147,181 square kilometres (56,827 sq mi).

Population:  The total population of Nepal is 28,676,547 (2005). The Nepalese are descendants of three major migrations from India, Tibet, and North Burma and Yunnan via Assam.

People: Nepali people are well-known for their friendliness and hospitality. Among the earliest inhabitants were the Kirat of east mid-region, Newar of the Kathmandu Valley and aboriginal Tharu in the southern Terai region. The ancestors of the Brahman and Chetri caste groups came from India's present Kumaon, Garhwal and Kashmir regions, while other ethnic groups trace their origins to North Burma and Yunnan and Tibet, e.g. the Gurung and Magar in the west, Rai and Limbu in the east (from Yunnan and north Burma via Assam), and Sherpa and Bhotia in the north (from Tibet).

In the (Southern Part)Terai, a part of the Ganges Basin with 20% of the land, much of the population is physically and culturally similar to the Indo-Aryans of northern India. Indo-Aryan and East Asian looking mixed people live in the hill region. The mountainous highlands are sparsely populated. Kathmandu Valley, in the middle hill region, constitutes a small fraction of the nation's area but is the most densely populated, with almost 5% of the population.

Language: All the languages spoken in Nepal are national languages. Nepali is the official language of Nepal, with almost 60 percent of the population speaking it. This language, which is believed to be language with the closest derivation from Sanskrit, was originally called Khaskura, but became known as Nepali during the 20th century. Nepal's constitution, however, guarantees that, irrespective of what the official language is, all languages spoken in Nepal can be used for official purposes and documentation.

In the capital Kathmandu, Nepal Bhasa (the Newar language) and Nepali are the most widely used languages.

Religion: The main religion of Nepal is Hinduism. Shiva is regarded as the guardian deity of the country. Nepal is home to the largest Shiva temple in the world, the famous Pashupatinath Temple, where Hindus from all over the world come for pilgrimage. According to mythology, Sita Devi of the epic Ramayana was born in the Mithila Kingdom of King Janaka Raja. Buddhism was relatively more common among the Newar. Buddha is said to be a descendant of Sage Angirasa in many Buddhist texts. Scholars like Dr. Eitel connects it to the Rishi Gautama. But, differences between Hindus and Buddhists have been in general very subtle and academic in nature due to the intermingling of Hindu and Buddhist beliefs. Both share common temples and worship common deities; many of Nepal's Buddhists could also be regarded as Hindus and vice versa. Gurkhas from Nepal are Hindu. Among other natives of Nepal, those most influenced by Hinduism were the Magar, Sunwar, Limbu and Rai. Hindu influence is less prominent among the Gurung, Bhutia, and Thakali groups, who employ Buddhist monks for their religious ceremonies. Most of the festivals in Nepal are Hindu. The Machendrajatra festival, dedicated to Hindu Shaiva Siddha, is celebrated even by Buddhists and it is the Buddhists' main festival. As it is believed that Ne Muni established Nepal, important priests in Nepal are called "Tirthaguru Nemuni".

Government and politics: Nepal has seen rapid political changes during the last two decades. Until 2008, Nepal was a  parliamentary monarchy with the king as the head of state and a prime minister as the head of the government. On December 10, 2007, the interim parliament passed a bill that would make Nepal a Federal Republic. On May 28, 2008, lawmakers in Nepal legally abolished the monarchy and declared the country a republic, ending 239 years of royal rule in the Himalayan nation.

President of Nepal: Dr. Ram Baran Yadav

Vice President: Parmanand Jha

Prime Minister: Madhav Kumar Nepal

Culture: Nepalese culture is diverse, reflecting different ethnic origins of the people. All the communities  are rich in cultural diversity; they celebrate many festivals, well known for their music and dance.

FOOD: A typical Nepalese meal is dal-bhat-tarkari. Other foods like continental, Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, Italian, and Indian etc are also available on local restaurant and hotels.

National Flag: Nepal's flag is the only national flag in the world that is non-quadrilateral in shape, and one of only two non-rectangular flags in use (the other being the flag of the US state of Ohio). According to its official description, the red in the flag stands for victory in war or courage, and is also color of the rhododendron, the national flower of Nepal. Red also stands for aggression. The flag's blue border signifies peace. The curved moon on the flag is a symbol of the peaceful and calm nature of Nepalese, while the sun represents the aggressiveness of Nepalese warriors.

Time:  Five Hours and forty-five minutes ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (+5:45 hours GMT).

Climate: Nepal has five climatic zones, broadly corresponding to the altitudes. The tropical and subtropical zones lie below 1,200 metres (3,940 ft), the temperate zone 1,200 to 2,400 metres (3,900–7,875 ft), the cold zone 2,400 to 3,600 metres (7,875–11,800 ft), the subarctic zone 3,600 to 4,400 metres (11,800–14,400 ft), and the Arctic zone above 4,400 metres (14,400 ft).

Seasons: Nepal experiences five seasons: summer, monsoon, autumn, winter and spring. The Himalaya blocks cold winds from Central Asia in the winter and forms the northern limit of the monsoon wind patterns. In a land once thickly forested, deforestation is a major problem in all regions, with resulting erosion and degradation of ecosystems.

Electricity: The electric current is 220 volt AC (50 cycles) throughout the country. Many different types of plugs and sockets are in use. Travelers with electric shavers, hair dryers, tape recorders and other appliances should carry a plug adapter kit. The better hotels will make available 110-volt transformers as well.

Tap water : Tap water is clean but drinking from it directly should be avoided. Mineral water or Bottled water is recommended.

Clothing : Light cotton cloths are appropriate for Summer in Hilly and Tarai region whereas, Full sleeves and warm clothes are advised for Himalayan Region. For winter, full sleeves and warm clothes are advised for even Hilly and Tarai region. Himalayan region during winter demands proper trekking and mountaineering gear.   

Weights & measures : The metric system is used throughout Nepal. Numerals on vehicle speedometers, highway markers and speed limits all indicate kilometers.

Business hours : Most commercial concerns in Nepal operate on a six-day week, usually from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Many stores open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Government offices are generally open between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. with  1 p.m. to 2 p.m lunch break, Sunday to Friday except on public holidays. In winter, the Government offices closes 1 hour before i.e. at 4 p.m. Most of the Banks are open Sundays to Fridays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. except on public holidays.

Postal Services : We do have postal service for National and International postal. There are other private postal services also. Major hotels provide basic postal services on their premises. General post offices are usually Sun - Thu 10am -5pm, Fri 10am - 3pm

Mobil and International Roaming Mobile Phone : There are 2 GSM Mobile phone companies (www.ntc.net.np) and (www.spicenepal.com) and two CDMA Phone Companies (www.ntc.net.np) and (www.utlnepal.com). All the telecom companies have advanced features like GPRS and 3G as well.

A Subscriber Identity Module Card (SIM Card) is available for Nepali and foreign customers who are traveling around for work. The SIM Card must be used in conjunction with a Digital GSM mobile phone within the 900-MHz range or a Digital PCN mobile phone within the 1800-MHz range.

Fax and E-mail : All of Nepal's leading hotels offer facsimile (fax) and e-mail services. Cyber cafes can be found in major cities and tourist spots. Numerous private businesses offer such facilities, most often in conjunction with translation services.

Internet Services: Nepal has been expanding its information service for residents and tourists alike through the Internet system. Services are now available at Nepal’s leading hotels and at the many cybercafés that are cropping up in all major tourist destinations and major cities of Nepal.

Telephone services : At present, all telephone numbers (for local calls and long distance calls within the country) have eight digits and Mobile has 10 digits. 

-For Kathmandu calls, 01 is added to the existing numbers i.e. 01 4418 661. 
-The international dialling code for Nepal is + 977. 
-When making international calls to Nepal, add 977 and omit the leading 0. 
-When making international calls from Nepal, first dial country code+area code+telephone number. 

Emergency Telephone Numbers:

-Central Emergency (Police: 100/4226999, Traffic: 103, KTM Police: 4261945, Ambulance (Res Cross): 4228094, Fire: 101) 
-Tourist Police: 1155 
-Nepal Tourism Board: 4256909
-Immigration Bureau : 4223590 

1.Travel and Tour

Travel and Tour is the foremost activities in Nepalese Tourism that have been well managed by our members. Our member provides services like domestic and international ticketing (Air/Land) for safe and pleasant travel. Our experienced tour operator operates inbound and outbound tours. They offer tailored made packages for Nepal Visit/Tour. Besides travel and tour, we have lots of activities; shown below.

2.TREKKING

Nepal offers excellent trekking options to visitors from the easy walking excursions to the strenuous climb of the snowy peaks. The most rewarding way to experience Nepal's natural embellishment and cultural assortment is to walk through the length, breadth and the altitudes of the country. Trekking in Nepal is a big part of the ultimate Himalayan adventure and a majority of tourists have trekking as a part of their itinerary.

One can also trek on ponies in some remote places, which is equally enthralling for visitors. Pony treks follow nearly the same routes and are offered mostly in western region of Pokhara, Dolpo and Lo Manthang (Mustang).

3.BUNGY JUMPING

Just imagination of jumping down from a bridge 160 meters above a tropical gorge with the Bhote Kosi, one of Nepal's wildest rivers raging below is enough to make your heartbeat run faster. And, it is the thrill of bungy jumping as it there is no fun for real adventure lover if challenge is not so hard and difficult. It is located within a reach of 4 hours outside Kathmandu and just 19 km away from the Tibet Border.

The Bungy bridge happens to be the only privately owned bridge in Nepal. It has been specially designed for bungy jumping with a 4x-safety factor and has a loading factor of 41,500 kg or 4.5 tons according to Swiss measurements.

4.ROCK CLIMBING

Nepal offers very attractive Rock Climbing experience, Without Rock Climbing your visit to Nepal just not complited. If you don't have much tome time to take a Himalayan peak during the visit, you can try for Rock Climbing in spot like Nagarjun hills and Shivapuri hills. Inside The Shreeban Rock Climbing Nature camp could provide you the strange enjoy of Rock Climbing outside Kathmandu, in the Hill of Siddha Lake - Dhading Nalang. You can find other more cliffs outside valley who gives real enjoy of adventure.

5.JUNGLE SAFARI

National parks located specially in the Terai region in Nepal attract visitors from all over the world. A visit to these parks involves game-stalking by a variety of means – foods, dugout canoe, jeep, and elephant back. One is bound to sight a one-horned rhino to two to every elephant safari. Beside the rhinos, wild boars, samburs, spotted deer, sloth bear, four-horned antelope are also usually seen. In fact, jungle safari walk gives close-up opportunities to view animals as well as observe their tracks, signs, and sound.

6.SIGHTSEEING

The ancient history of Katmandu begins from Manjushree ( The Buddhist Saint). Before Manju shree came to Kathmadnu it was a lake, he cut southern side of the lake and drained out the water and made it in habitable. many dynastic came and went. Trade and arts flourished. There are seven heritage sites in the valley. Kathmandu has an exotic setting. It is surrounded by tier of green mountains wall above which tower mighty snow -capped peaks in winter. It consists of three main towns of great historic, artistic and cultural interest: Kathmandu, Patan and Bhadgaun. The Valley covers an area of 596sq. miles. It is situated at 1330m.above the sea-level.

7.HELICOPTER TOUR

In Nepal, going to remote corners of the Himalaya is not a problem for visitors. In fact, it is a pleasurable and exciting activity. How? By helicopter!. Since the whirlybird needs only a small landing space, it can be hired to take tourists to whichever destination and at whatever time they want to go. No wonder chartering a helicopter for sight-seeing has become a popular tourist activity in Nepal.

There are two types of helicopters currently operating in the private sector. The most frequently seen is the powerful Russian made MI-17. This is a big bird, capable of transporting 22 passengers or four tons of cargo. MI-17's can reach altitudes well in excess of 5.000 m and have been known to land at Everest Base Camp. They offer excellent utility and reliability under extreme conditions.

8.HOT AIR BALLOONING

One will get an exciting experience by looking down the earth from the sky. Spending an hour on a balloon in the sky and having an aerial view of the cities of Kathmandu Valley, Himalayan range and green hills around the Valley will be memorable forever. The majestic snowcapped peaks, rugged terrains and trails to Mt. Sagarmatha will tempt you to have the experience once again.

9.PARAGALADING

Paragliding is a relatively new adventure sport in Nepal. Paragliding in this Himalayan country can be a truly wonderful and fulfilling experience for the adventure-seekers. You can experience unparalleled scenic grandeur as you share airspace with Himalayan griffin vultures, eagles, kites, while floating over villages, monasteries, temples, lakes and jungles, with a fantastic view of the majestic Himalayas.

Gliding is a weather dependent sport and the flying season in Nepal commences from November through February, the best months being November and December. By virtue of its latitude and monsoonal climate, the tree line in Nepal is at an incredible 3,900 m above sea level. With conditions milder than summer alpine, these are excellent and constant atmospherics.

10. CABLE CAR

You don't have to be in Switzerland to ride on cable cars. Unlike in the West, the cable car in Nepal takes you up to the abode of Manakamana, the Wish-Fulfilling Goddess, on what you could call a spiritual ride. Legend has it that Manakamana fulfills all wishes. This belief is so ingrained in the collective conciousness of the Nepalis that many make a trip to Manakamana every year without fail. Stories abound of people's wishes coming true: lost sons returning home, lovers finding romance against all odds, people finding success in their business ventures, students excelling in their exams, separated husband and wife getting back together, and on and on. Even if you have no wishes to make (assuming that you have got it all, which means you have no need of Manakamana's blessings) or even if you are an atheist or agnostic, this place offers you a unique look into Nepali people's faith in Goddess Manakamana. Also you could look at the river valleys and the Himalayas from here. Or just explore the hamlets downhill.

11. ULTRALIGHT AIRCRAFT

Ultralight aircraft is being operated from Pokhara. It has a unique blend of both mountain and plateau area. While flying over the Pokhara valley, you will not miss the scenic beauty of both the Himalayas and the most famous lake of Nepal, phewa Tal. The flight will be a journey through nature. This is truly a unique experience

12.MOUNTAIN FLIGHT

Mountain flight is a much easier way to see the Nepali Himalayan peaks. Most flights are in mornings and operate at all times except in the monsoon seasons of June and July. Air planes fly along the Himalayan range and also beyond for passengers to get a good view of the Himalayan range. All the domestic airlines of Nepal offer various forms of mountain flights.

The flight takes you within camera range of some of the highest peaks in the world, and cruising this close to the awe-inspiring massifs of rock and ice is an out-of-this world experience.

A few domestic airlines offer mountain flight from Kathmandu to see Mt. Everest. This unique experience gives visitors a quick glance at Nepal's untamed landscapes and a fly-past through the world's tallest peak.

13.RAFTING

Nepal has earned the reputation of one of the best destinations for white water rafting. Cruising down rushing rivers of crashing waves and swirling rapids can make up excitement of a lifetime. Rafting trips for some is the highlight of their stay in Nepal. The waters in Nepal offer something for everybody: Grade 5-5+ rivers with raging white water rapids for the adventurous, to Grade 2-3 rivers with a few rapids for novices. Rafters also have a choice ranging from two to three-week trips to trips of two or three days.

The options include paddling, oaring and kayaking. Paddling requires all on boat to participate with instructions from river runner. Luxury safari-style trips with full team are available too. In an oar boat, the guide rows alone giving participants a chance to observe the surroundings. Kayaking is another way to travel downstream. A few companies offer inflatable kayaks, or fiberglass kayaks for hire while some arrange for kayaks on their own.

14.BOATING

Nepal provides some fine opportunities for boating. These range from the glacier-fed lakes up North and down to where the laden rivers ease into the plains of the Terai. Pokhara's Phewa Lake is the most popular destination for travelers wanting to indulge in recreational boating. It is the second largest lake in the kingdom and measures roughly 1.5 by 4 km. Its eastern shore, also known as Lakeside or Baidam, is the center of tourist activity in Pokhara.

15.FISHING

Sport fishing, like hunting, is little advertised and therefore little known in Nepal. However, for the angling enthusiast, Nepal's lakes and rivers can prove good fishing grounds. There are approximately 118 varieties of fresh-water fish in these Himalayan waters, ranging from the much sought after Mahseer to the mountain stream trout-like varieties. The best season to go sport fishing on white waters is before and after the monsoon from February till April and October and November. During these times the fishes go upstream to spawn and they consume less food. But locals catch a lot of fish during monsoon as well for their livelihood.

16.KAYAKING

A water sport, kayaking is the best form of river adventure, specially in the blossoming rivers of Nepal. Kayaks are made from a special type of plastic and have floatation devices inserted to aid buoyancy. Kayakers move through the water with a double blade paddle, and are able to negotiate rapids and obstacles on the river.

With its wide range of rivers and wealth of challenging rapids, Nepal is the perfect destination for Kayaking. Whether you are a total beginner or an experienced white water kayaker keen to tackle one of our more challenging rivers

17. CANNYONING

Canyoning/Canyoneering is an adventure sport that involves traveling down creeks or streams within a canyon by a variety of means including hiking, scrambling, wading, boulder hopping, rock climbing, abseiling and rappelling using safe techniques.

Canyoning is comprehensive package for experiencing adventure that requires technical skills of stream navigation, rope and canyoning gears work and preparedness for risk minimization. Your safety depends on your judgment based on competent instruction, experience and a realistic assessment of abilities and understanding of current canyon conditions.

18. BIRD WATCHING

Nepal is a paradise for birds lovers and ornithologists with over 848 species (8% of the world total) of birds. And among them almost 500 species are found in the Kathmandu valley alone. The most popular bird watching spots in Kathmandu are Phulchoki, Godavari, Nagarjun, Bagmati River , Taudaha and so on. Get your binocular and look forward to a rewarding experience. The best time for bird watching is March and December. " Tragopan in kanchanjunga area"

19.MOUNTAINEERING

With eight of the highest peaks in the world, Nepal has been the focus of some of the most outstanding achievements in the world of mountaineering. For many decades the dauntless icy peaks have posed as challenge to those who dare. There are some 326 peaks in Nepal open for mountaineering today. Government of Nepal opened around 175 peaks in the last two years to mark the Mount Everest Golden Jubilee Celebrations.

Climbing permit to scale the Nepal Himalayas is issued in all seasons by the Mountaineering Section of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation. Certain official documents are required to seek permission for climbing peaks. Around 121 peaks do not require liaison officer for expedition. Fees or ties depend upon the altitude of the peak starting at US $ 1,000 for peaks below 6,501 meters and rising by US $ 500 for every 500 meters.

20.MOUNTAIN BIKING

Nepal offers a challenging and pleasant scenic ride from the tropical plains of terai, mid-hills, mountainous terrain and its lush valleys to the arctic climate of the high alpine region. The only way to discover these hidden treasures and its warm ever-smiling people is on mountain bikes. Mountain biking is a great fun and a perfect way to discover Nepal's great diverse landscape, of tremendous terrain, tracks and trails. Where mountain bike takes you away from the hustle bustle of the city-town life into serene country life, on a hidden trail rarely visited area of local villages, its traditional rural life style that has preserved for centuries.

It was in the mid-1980s that biking activity really took off in Kathmandu. Enthusiasts flew with their bikes from Hong Kong to Tibet to answer the call of the wild steppes. The two-week journey from there over the passes (17,000 ft) to Nepal is what sparked it all off. Even today Kathmandu is a mecca for mountain bicyclists, as it draws thousands of enthusiasts from all corners of the world.

21.HONEY HUNTING

Honey Hunting, the collection of Honey from the nests of wild Bees built on steep cliffs, is an age-old tradition. Local honey hunters show their exceptional skills by hanging themselves from cliffs as high as 300 meters using Bamboo ladders and hemp ropes, while harvesting the honeycombs. Everyone is thrilled to watch honey hunters at work.

NATTA is the oldest and pioneer Tour and Travel Agent Association. We certify each Tour and Travel Agents before granting membership. The follow are the reasons why you should travel with NATTA Members:

All the Tour and Travel Agents in the Nepal are not our Members. Hence we recommend you to Travel with our Member Agents only.

• Abu Dhabi, Embassy of Nepal
• Hareb Mohammad Hareb Al Otaiba, Building No. 1670, (Behind ADCCI Abu Dhabi Travel Bureau), Falt No. 102, Airport Road / Cornish Area, POBox 38282, Abu Dhabi
• Tel: 971-2-6344385, 6344767
• Fax: 971-2-6344469
• Email: nepemuae@emirates.net.ae
• http://www.nepembassyuae.ae

• Bangkok, Embassy of Nepal
• 189 Soi 71, Sukumvit Road Prakanong, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
• Tel: 00662-391-7240, 390-2280
• Fax: 00662-381-2406
• Email: nepembbk@asiaaccess.net.th

• Beijing, Embassy of Nepal
• No 1, xi Liu Jie, Sanlitun Lu, Beijing 100600, People's Republic of China
• Tel: 0086-10-6532-1795
• Fax: 0086-10-6532-3251
• Email: beijing@nepalembassy.org.cn
• http://www.nepalembassy.org.cn

• Berlin, Embassy of Nepal
• Guerickestrasse-27, 10587 Berlin-Charlottenburg, Federal Republic of Germany
• Tel: 0049-30-3435-9920, 3435 9921, 34359922
• Fax: 0049-30-3435-9906
• Email: neberlin@t-online.de
• http://www.nepalembassy-germany.de

• Brussels, Embassy of Nepal
• Avenue Brugmann-210
• 1050 Brussels, Belgium
• Tel: 00 32 2 346 2658, 346 6638
• Fax: 00 32 2 344 1361
• Email: embn@skynet.be
• http://www.nepalembassy.be/

• Cairo, Embassy of Nepal
• 23, Al Hassan Street, Mohandessin-Dokki,Cairo, Arab Republic of Egypt
• Tel: 00202-37603 426, 37612 311
• Fax: 00202-33374 447
• Email: ne@nepalembassyegypt.com
• http://www.nepalembassyegypt.com
• Time Difference to GMT: September Last Friday-Apil Last Thursday: +2 hrs April Last Friday-September Last Thursday: +3 hrs

• Canberra, Embassy of Nepal
• Suite 2.02, 24-Marcus Clarke Street
• Canberra City, ACT 2601
• Australia
• Tel: 0061 (02) 6162 1554 / 1556
• Fax: 0061 (02) 6162 1557
• Email: embassyofnepal@grapevine.com.au, nepalembassy@bigpond.com
• http://www.necan.gov.np

• Colombo, Embassy of Nepal
• 153, Kynsey road, Colombo-8, Sri Lanka.
• Tel: 0094-11-2689-656, 657
• Fax: 0094-11-2689-655.
• Email: nepalembassy@eureka.lk

• Denmark, Hellerup, Embassy of Nepal
• Svanemollevej 92
• 2900 Hellerup
• Tel: +45 44 44 40 26/35/43
• Fax: +45 44 44 40 27
• Email: embdenmark@gmail.com

• Dhaka, Embassy of Nepal
• United Nations Road, Road No 2 Baridhara, Diplomatic enclave, Dhaka-1212, Bangladesh.
• Tel: 880-2-601-790/890, 602 091
• Fax: 880-2-882-6401
• Email: eondhaka@dbn-bd.net

• Doha, Embassy of Nepal
• Villa No 13,Street No 810, 42, Ibne Bajah, Doha, Qatar.
• Tel: +00974-467-5681, 5683.
• Fax: +00974-467-5680
• Email: nembdoha@qatar.net.qa
• http://www.rnedoha.org.qa/

• Geneva, Permanent Mission of Nepal to the United Nations and other International Organisations
• 81, rue de la Servette, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland.
• Tel: 0041-22-7332 600, 7332 2621.
• Fax: 0041-22-7332-722.
• Email: mission.nepal@bluewin.ch

• Hong Kong, Consulate General of Nepal
• Unit 715, China Aerospace (North) Tower, Concordia Plaza, No. 1 Science Museum Road, Tsim Sha Tsu (East) Kowloon, Hong Kong.
• Tel: 00852-2369-7813
• Fax: 00852-2824-2970
• Email: cgnhk@biznetvigator.com
• http://www.nepalconsulatehk.org

• Islamabad, Embassy of Nepal
• House No 4, Street No 21, F-7/2, Islamabad, Pakistan.
• Tel: 0092 51-265-5180 (Ambassador), 265-5181(CDA), 265 5182/83(Off.)
• Fax: 0092 51-265-5184
• Email: nepem@isb.comsats.net.pk

• Kolkata, Consulate General of Nepal
• 1, National Library Avenue, Alipore, Kolkata-700027
• Tel: 0091-33-2456-1103, 1117, 1224, 1154, 1085, 3972, 3971
• Fax: 0091-33-2456-1410
• Email: nepalconsulate@dataone.in

• Kuala Lumpur, Embassy of Nepal
• Suite 13A.01, 13th A Floor
• Wisma MCA, 163 Jalan Ampang
• 50540 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• Tel: 03-2164 5934, 9653
• Fax: 603-2164 8659
• Email: info@nepalembassy.com.my
• http://www.nepalembassy.com.my

• Lhasa, Consulate General of Nepal
• Norbulingka Road 13, Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region of The People's Republic of China.
• Tel: 00681-5744, 3965, 682-2881
• Fax: 0086-891-683-6890
• Email: cgnlhasa@hotmail.com

• London, Embassy of Nepal
• 12A, Kensington Palace Gardens, London, W8 4QU, United Kingdom.
• Tel: 0044-20-7229-1594/6231/5352
• Fax: 0044-20-7792-9861
• Email: eon@nepembassy.org.uk
• http://www.nepembassy.org.uk

• Moscow, Embassy of Nepal
• 2nd Neopalimovsky Pereulok 14/7, Moscow, Russia.
• Tel: 007-095-244-0215
• Fax: 007-095-244-0000.
• Email: nepalemb@mtu-net.ru

• New Delhi, Embassy of Nepal
• Barakhamba Road, New Delhi-110001, India.
• Tel: 91-11-2332 7361, 2332 9218,2332 8066, 2332 7594, 2332 9969.
• Fax: 91-11-2332 6857, 2332 9647
• Email: nepembassydelhi@bol.net.in

• New York, Permanent Mission of Nepal to the United Nations
• 820 Second Avenue, Suite 17-B
• New York, NY 10017, USA
• Tel: 001212 3703988 / 3703989
• Fax: 001212 9532038
• Email: nepal@un.int
• http://www.un.int/nepal

• Paris, Embassy of Nepal
• 45, bis rue des Acacias, 75017, Paris, France
• Tel: 0033--4622-4867
• Fax: 0033--4227-0865
• Email: nepalinparis@noos.fr
• http://www.nepalembassyparis.gov.np/

• Riyadh, Embassy of Nepal
• Khazan Street, AI Morabbah (Near Prince Musaed Palace) Post Box No 94384, Riyadh 11693, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
• Tel: 00966-1-402-4758, 403-6433, 403-9482
• Fax: 00966-1-464-0690, 465-1823
• Email: neksa@zajil.net
• http://www.rneska.org

• Seoul, Embassy of Nepal
• Embassy of Nepal , 244-143, Huam-dong , Yongsan-Ku , Seoul, Korea.
• Tel: + 82 2 3789 9770 / 3789 9771
• Fax: + 82 2 736 8848
• Email: nepembseoul@yahoo.com
• http://www.nepembseoul.gov.np

• Tel Aviv, Embassy of Nepal
• Textile Center Building, 7th Floor
• 2 Kaufman St.
• Tel Aviv-68012
• Israel.
• Tel: 5100111, 5168085 & 5168086
• Fax: +972 3 5167965
• Email: nepal.embassy@012.net.il & nepembtelavia@gmail.com

• Tokyo, Embassy of Nepal
• 14-9 Todoroki 7-Chome, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 158-0082, Japan.
• Tel: 0081-3-3705-5558/5559.
• Fax: 0081-3-3705-8264
• Email: nepembjp@big.or.jp

• Washington DC, Embassy of Nepal
• 2131 Leroy Place, NW, Washington DC, 20008 USA.
• Tel: 001-202-667-4550, 4551, 4552.
• Fax: 001-202-667-5534.
• Email: info@nepalembassyusa.org
• http://www.nepalembassyusa.org

• Yangon, Embassy of Nepal
• 16, Natmauk Yeiktha, Yangon.
• Tel: 00951-545-880, 557-168.
• Fax: 00951-549-803.
• Email: nepemb@mptmail.net.mm

NTB PR

Arjun Prasad Sharma

President

Mata Tirtha Snan (Mother's Day):

This is one of the widely celebrated festivals that falls on the first month, Baisakh (April/May), of the Nepali Year.It is also called Mata Tirtha Aunsi as it falls on a new moon night.

Buddha Jayanti

This day is celebrated to mark the birthday of the Lord Buddha which dates back in about 543 BC.It falls on Jestha Purnima (Full moon night-May/June).

Ghanta Karna Chaturdasi

This festival celebrates the exorcism of the mythical demon Ghantakarna.It is also called Gathemangal festival which falls on trayodashi of the month Shrawan (July/August).

Janai Purnima,Rakshya Bandhan,Khumbeshwor Mela Patan

Janai Purnima is the festival of Sacred Thread.On this day every Hindu ties a sacred thread on the wrist.It is also called Rakshya Bandhan.Ont his day, there is a big Mela (fair) at Khumbeshwor,Lalitpur.It is again on a full moon night.

Gaijatra

The festival of "Gai Jatra" (the procession of cows) which is one of the most popular festivals, is generally celebrated in the Nepalese month of Bhadra (August-September).This festival has its roots in the belief that the god of death, Yamaraj, must be feared and hence worshipped.

Shree Krishna Janmastami

Sri Krishna Janmastami marks the celebration of the birth of Lord Sri Krishna. This festival is also known as Krishna Jayanti or Janmashtami. Lord Krishna is regarded as the 8th avatar or 'incarnation' of Lord Vishnu.It falls on Saptami of Bhadra (August/September).

Gokarna Aunsi (Father's Day)

The most auspicious day to honour one's father is Gokarna Aunsi . It falls on the dark fortnight of Bhadra or in August or in early September.It is also known as Kuse Aunsi.

Teej

"Teej" is the fasting festival for women. Through this religious fasting, hindu women pray for marital bliss, wellbeing of their spouse and children and purification of their own body and soul. It takes place on Tritiya of Bhadra (August/September).

Indrajatra(Holiday Only in Kathmandu)

This festival falls in the end of Bhadra (August/September). Both Hindus and Buddhists unite to celebrate the festival of Indra Jatra with great enthusiasm.

Dashain

During the month of Kartik in the Bikram Sambat calendar (late September and early October), the Nepalese people indulge in the biggest festival of the year, Dashain. Dashain is the longest and the most auspicious festival in the Nepalese annual calendar, celebrated by Nepalese of all caste and creed throughout the country. The fifteen days of celebration occurs during the bright lunar fortnight ending on the day of the full moon.

Tihar

Tihar, the festival of lights is one of the most dazzling of all Hindu festivals. In this festival we worship Goddess Laxmi, the Goddess of wealth. It heralds the month of Kartik (October/November) starting with Kukur Puja-Narak Chaturdashi.

Maghe Sankranti

Maghe Sankranti is the beginning of the holy month of Magh, usually the mid of January. It brings an end to the ill-omened month of Poush (mid-december) when all religious ceremonies are forbidden. Even if it is considered the coldest day of the year, it marks the coming of warmer weather and better days of health and fortune.

Shree Panchami

This festival falls in mid Magh (January/February).It is celebrated as the birthday of Saraswati, the Goddess of Learning. She is the lily-white daughter of Shiva and Durga in spotless white robe and seated in a full-blown lotus.

This day is also dedicated to the martyrs of Nepal and hence celebrated as Martyr's Day.

Maha Shiva Ratri

This day is the celebration dedicated to the Lord Shiva which falls on the Trayodashi of the month Fagun (February/March).

Fagun Purnima (Holi)

The ancient Hindu festival of Holi falls on late February or on early March. Allegedly named after the mythical demoness Holika, it is a day when the feast of colours is celebrated. The festival is of a week. However, it's only the last day that is observed by all with colours.

Ghode Jatra

Ghode Jatra, the Horse Racing Day falls on Darhsa Shrad Aunsi of the month Chaitra (March/April). A grand horse parade takes place at Tundikhel, the central point of the city reputed to have been in the former days the largest parade ground in Asia.

Shree Ram Nawami

Ram Nawami is celebrated in the mid of Chaitra (March/April) as Lord Ram's Birthday. It is celebrated with much pomp at Janaki temple in Janakpur city, which lies in southern Nepal.

Bagh Jatra

The Bagh Jatra of Pokhara is another cultural baggage brought by Newars from Kathmandu, celebrated in early august. The festival has been celebrated in Pokhara for about 150 years. It expresses the people's joy at their deliverance from a marauding tiger. On the first day, people dress up like hunters and make an appearance accompanied by musical bands. The next day is an interlude devoted to the showing of comic programs. For three days,the hunting party parades through different parts of the town before "slaying" the beast to end the festivities.

Bhairav Kumari Jatra

This is one of the major religious celebrations in Dolkha, an historic town in north-eastern Nepal (133 km from Kathmandu off the highway to Tibet). The festival falls on early August; and consists of masked dances that go on non-stop for five days. Escorted by musical bands, dancers representing the deities Bhairav and Kumari and other gods and goddesses swirl and sway through Dolkha, visiting its many temples. On the occasion, devotees also undergo fasting and worship Bhairav and Kumari. The ceremony has a history going back more than five centuries.

Chaite Dasain

Chaite Dasain used to be the original day of the grand Dasain festival (which takes place exactly six months later now), but because people got their stomachs upset after feasting on spicy food during the warm month of Chaitra, the grand celebration was shifted to the cooler season. But the religious fervor is still evident in the celebrations of the day.

Gaura Parva

Gaura Parva is another celebration honoring Lord Krishna's birthday. It is celebrated in far western Nepal with much gusto for two days (August/September). Apart from the many ceremonies that happen during this festival, it is the occasion for married women to put on the sacred thread. The deuda dance is a major part of the festivities in which participants hold hands and form a circle as they step to traditional music.

Gunla

Gunla is a sacred month dedicated to Lord Buddha. This festival commemorates the auspicious "rains retreat" when the Buddha, over 2,500 years ago, led his close disciples into solitary meditation and preached to them the essence of his principles.

Guru Purnima

Teachers come second (after the gods) in the Hindu hierarchy of respect. The full moon day of the month June/July is set aside for students to pay homage to their teachers and receive blessings from them in return. At a place called Vyas on the Kathmandu-Pokhara highway, special worship is performed to Maharishi Vyas, the saint who wrote the great Hindu epic, Mahabharat. For Buddhists, the occasion (Dilla Punhi) is sacred as the day when the Buddha-to-be entered the womb of Queen Mayadevi. Religious functions are held at monasteries and temples to commemorate the event.

Lhosar

Lhosar is the Tibetan New Year which falls on February/March. This festival is mast impressively observed by all the Tibetan-speaking populations. They organize folk songs and dances on this occasion. These dances can be seen in Khumbu, Helambu and other northern regions of Nepal and also at Boudhanath in Kathmandu.

Rato Macchendranath Jatra

(Begins on the full moon day of Baisakh)This is the longest as well as the most important festival of Patan. It begins with several days of ceremonies and the fabrication of a wooden-wheeled chariot at Pulchowk, near the Ashoka Stupa.

Mani Rimdu

(Full moon of the 9th Tibetan month) Mani Rimdu is the biggest event of the year for the Sherpas of the Khumbu region. Sherpas from the Khumbu region congregate at Thyangboche Gompa, the picturesque monastery situated on a spur at 3,870 meters from where both Mt. Everest and Ama Dablam can be seen.

Mata-yaa

Celebrated in mid-August Mata-yaa is one of Patan's popular festivals. It consists of a day-long procession of devotees going around the Buddhist courtyards of the town and offering worship at the shrines there. Carrying lighted tapers and joss sticks in their hands, Mata-yaa participants rush in a meandering file and visit the hundreds of Buddhist sites scattered all over Patan. They toss rice grains, flowers and coins at the shrines as they pass by. Some devotees wear elaborate and amusing costumes. Musicians also take part in the parade.

Neel Barahi Pyakhan

Neel Barahi Pyakhan is a sacred masked dance which is shown over four days(August/September)in different parts of Bode. Nineteen persons representing the town's guardian pantheon take part in the dance performance. Music is provided by a 27-piece traditional orchestra. The ceremony invokes peace and harmony, and is dedicated to the deity Neel Barahi whose temple is located in a jungle outside Bode. Bode adjoins Thimi which is 8 km east of Kathmandu.

Rath Yatra

Biratnagar in south-eastern Nepal brings out a spectacular chariot procession to mark Lord Krishna's birthday (August/September). The parade sets out from the Radha Krishna temple and goes around the town. The six-meter tall chariot carries the images of Krishna and his consort Radha and is drawn by hordes of devotees. The annual chariot festival was started in 1932 to commemorate the building of a temple dedicated to Krishna.

Sita Vivaha Panchami

This festival, commemorating the marriage of Sita to Ram, is particularly celebrated in Janakpur. Each year in Janakpur, idols of Ram and sita are brought out in bright processions and their Hindu wedding ceremony is enacted.

Tamu Dhee

Tamu Dhee (also known as Trahonte) is a Gurung holiday (august). Ceremonies are performed to purge the neighborhood of evil spirits and to safeguard one's farm and farm animals from hostile elements. The festival can be observed in Pokhara. Groups of people beating on different kinds of drums form a colorful procession and make house-to-house visits. Participants with their faces smeared with soot and wearing feather headdresses parade through the town to drive away negative influences and ensure peace and security.

Tansen Jatra

The hilltop town of Tansen in central Nepal exults in a week-long festive spree beginning with Janai Purnima, when Hindus change their sacred threads. The next day, Gai Jatra is marked by parading figures of cows made of bamboo and cloth. Ropai Jatra is the rice planting ceremony and participants perform plowing and planting acts on the streets. During Bagh Jatra, actors dressed up like tigers and hunters march through town. Then there are the parades. Images of Ganesh, Bhimsen and Narayan are placed on palanquins and carried around Tansen. The celebrations climax on August 12 with Bhagawati Jatra, the procession of the town's protective goddess.

Taya Macha

The Taya Macha dance is shown in different parts of Pokhara as part of the Gai Jatra observances. The five dancers, four dressed up as angels and one as a clown, are accompanied by a group of traditional musicians. It is believed that the performance will bring peace to the souls of those who have passed away during the previous year. The festival has its roots in the Kathmandu Valley. It was brought to Pokhara by Newars who migrated here centuries ago.

Yomari Punhi

Yomari Punhi is one of the popular Newar festivals observed every year during the full moon of December. A yomari is a confection of rice-flour (from the new harvest)dough shaped like fig and filled with brown cane sugar and sesame seeds, which is then steamed.

Source: www.nepalhomepage.com/festivals.

Tourist visa:

• The foreign tourist visiting Nepal shall be granted the tourist visa.
• The tourist visa shall be granted for a period in maximum of 150 days in a visa year (Visa years means January to December).
• A tourist who has departed before the expiry of the period specified in the visa issued in a visa year shall not be allowed to use the visa by adding the remaining period to another visa year.
• If any foreigner who has entered into Nepal towards the end of a visa year desires to spend even the period during which he may stay in Nepal with the tourist visa of the other visa year, he may use such facility.

Tourist Visa FEE

• Visa Facility Duration Fee
• Multiple entry 15 days US$ 25 or equivalent convertible currency
• Multiple entry 30 days US$ 40 or equivalent convertible currency
• Multiple entry 90 days US$ 100 or equivalent convertible currency

Business Visa:

• The business visa shall be granted to the following foreigners and their family on the recommendation of concerned agency:
  • Foreigners visiting Nepal from third country who export goods manufactured in Nepal through purchase or who place a purchase order for export.
  • Except as otherwise provided for in these Rules, the business visa shall be issued for a period not exceeding five years at a time; and its term may be extended as per necessity.
• Notwithstanding anything contained in sub rule (2), a multiple business visa of five years shall be issued for 90 days at one time for the foreigners pursuant to clause (c) subrule for stay in Nepal.

Official Visa:

The official visa shall be granted to the persons considered fit the following foreigners and their family upon recommendation of the concerned foreign diplomatic mission:

• Administrative, technical and non diplomatic officials serving in a residential or non residential diplomatic mission, Consulate for Nepal and incumbent Nepalese honorary Consul Generals, Consuls and their family who visit Nepal from a foreign country,
• Consultant experts who stay in Nepal under an agreement with Nepal Government,
• Employees serving in the Nepal based offices of the United Nations or its agencies and the persons holding the laissez passez granted by the United Nations,
• Employees serving in the international institutions or regional organizations located in Nepal.
• Persons to come to participate in assembly, conference, training or meeting organized by Nepal Government or Nepal Government's undertaking agency or United Nations Organizations or Regional Organization or other agencies there under.

Non Tourist Visa :

• The following foreigners and their family members shall be granted the non-tourist visa.
  • Foreigners involved in the social and economic development works approved by Nepal Government, under the expenses to be borne by governmental institutions of the foreign friendly nations;
  • Foreigners having obtained recommendation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to work in the institutions run by the foreign missions located in Nepal,
  • Foreign representatives having obtained recommendation from the Ministry of Information and Communications to work in foreign newspapers and news agencies,
  • Foreigners having obtained recommendation from the concerned Ministry to act as helpers of the foreigners having obtained diplomatic or official visas,
  • Foreigners having obtained approval from Nepal Government to work on remuneration basis in any firm, company, association, industry or enterprise within Nepal,
  • Foreigners having obtained recommendation from the Ministry concerned to work in any international airlines organization located in Nepal,
  • Foreign importer visiting Nepal from third country on the recommendation of foreign governmental agency or Federation of Industries and commerce or Chamber of Commerce of Foreign Country,
  • Foreigners who have marital relation with the citizens of Nepal and furnish the marriage registration certificate.
  • Foreigner of Nepalese origin or such children of a Nepalese father or mother, who have come Nepal to visit their relatives or Father, Mother, Brother or sister of the foreigner married with Nepalese citizen having recommendation letter of relationship from the concern embassy, who have come to Nepal to visit her/him.
  • Foreigners who come to Nepal to work, on the recommendation of the concerned Ministry pursuant to an agreement or understanding agreed upon at governmental or non governmental level.
  • Foreigners having obtained recommendation of the concerned Ministry to conduct feasibility study of an industry or enterprise for a period not exceeding 6 months. But the foreigner, according to this part, must submit the document of the source of investment, qualification of investor and details of experience along with the visa application form.
  • Group leader of the foreigners making application, accompanied by the recommendation of the Ministry of concerned, for making the tourists' tour in group in Nepal,
  • Foreigners who have obtained recommendation of the concerned Ministry and who have to come to work in Non-governmental organization as per the agreement concluded with Social Welfare Council or concerned Ministry.
  • Such foreigners as may be thought fit by Nepal Government.
• The non tourist visa shall be issued for a period not exceeding one year at a time, and its term may be extended as per necessity.
• An application has to be submitted in the format as referred to in Appendix 2 to obtain the non tourist visa.

Diplomatic Visa:

Except in cases where a special order has been issued by Nepal government the diplomatic visa shall be issued to a person holding a diplomatic passport issued from any country and recommended from the concerned foreign diplomatic mission for the diplomatic visa, to a person considered fit to be granted diplomatic privileges by Nepal Government and the family members of such person holding the diplomatic passport.

The diplomatic visa shall be issued on the basis of reciprocity; the term thereof may be extended at a time or from time to time for the term of the assignment in Nepal.

• An application for the diplomatic visa has to be made in the format as referred to in Appendix 1. Provided, however that the application as referred to in Appendix 1 is not required to be submitted if request or recommendation, accompanied by the details, is made by a foreign diplomatic mission or a body authorised therefor.

Study Visa:

• The study visa shall be granted to the foreigners and their family who, having obtained the approval of Nepal Government, come to study, teach or conduct research in any educational institute in Nepal.
• Except for the foreigners who visit Nepal under the award of scholarship by Nepal Government or the accepted program of Nepal Government or Students and researcher under the agreement within the two universities or students from SAARC member states or students studying up to secondary level the foreigners intending to study and conduct research at their own will shall be granted the study visa only on the basis of the authentic source, in the case of the foreigner, to make expenses of at least three thousand American Dollars, grossly or on a monthly installment basis, per annum during their stay in Nepal, and in the case of their family, that of at least two thousand American Dollars per annum, or on the basis of the submission of a certificate of the exchange of foreign currency equivalent thereto or bank statement equivalent thereto.
• The study visa shall be granted for one year at a time. In cases the visa has to be granted for a period in excess thereof, the term of the visa may be extended by taking into consideration of the study and research progress report of such person, his activities as well as other necessary matters. Provided, however, that in the case of a researcher or student, such extension of the term shall be only for up to the Period of research or that of educational degree under study.
• Not withstanding anything written in clause (3), study visa may be granted to the student studying with technical subject, for total educational tenure of study.
• The recommendation of the Ministry of concerned has to be submitted for the study visa.

Residential Visa:

1. The following foreigners and their family intending to spend life in Nepal shall be granted the residential visa:

• Persons with international reputation,
• Persons capable of rendering outstanding contribution to the economic, social and cultural growth of Nepal ,
• Person, who has invested minimum one hundred thousand US dollars or convertible foreign currency equivalent thereto in industrial enterprise of Nepal at once.
• Any foreigner intending to spend life in Nepal without carrying on any business.

2. The mission recommending for residential visa to the foreigner as mentioned in other clauses save the foreigner as mentioned in clause (d) of sub-rule (1) shall send the recommendation along with the application filled up by such foreigner to the Department through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

3. Any foreigner intending to obtain the residential visa under clause (e) of sub rule (1) has to submit a certified document of the source of income of 20 thousand American Dollars or convertible foreign currency to be spent in Nepal and any foreigner intending to renew has to submit a certificate showing that he will spend or has spent in Nepal at least the same amount at one time or at several times per year.

4. Any foreigner intending to obtain the residential visa has to submit to the Department or the concerned mission an application in the format as referred to in Appendix 4.

Non-Residential Nepalese Visa:

• If any foreigner of Nepalese origin residing in foreign country wish to reside or conduct business, profession or Study, teach in any subject in Nepal, non-residential Nepalese visa may be issued to him and of his family.
• An application in the format under Appendix 3a may be submitted through Nepalese mission located in the foreign country or directly to the Department for the visa pursuant to Sub-rule (1).
• The visa pursuant to Sub-rule (1) may be issued for up to 10 years at one time, and such visa may be extended as per necessity.

Transit Visa:

1. Foreigners, who have entered In Nepal to stay for a night in Nepal and willing to use Nepal's Air port to visit another country with plane ticket or Foreigners, traveling in the accidentally force landed plane for any circumstances shall be issued transit visa for one day.

• Tourist Visa Form, Click here
• Diplomatic Visa Form, Click here
• Official  Visa Form, Click here
• Study Visa Form, Click here
• Business Visa Form, Click here
• Non-Tourist Visa Form, Click here
• Marriage Visa Form, Click here
• Residential Visa Form, Click here

1. Arrival (Air Pax only)
   • May 2009
   • April 2009
   • March 2009
   • Feb 2009
2. Aviation
   
   • New Fuel Surcharge in Domestic Air Fare (Effective from 10th March 2009)