Sunday, April 22, 2012


Adventure Activities in Nepal
http://www.visitnepal.com/images/blank.gif
http://www.visitnepal.com/adventure/canyoning1.jpgWhether you choose to balloon, bungy jump, canyon, ice-climb, rock climb, climb trekking peaks, fly over mountains or fly an ultralight, you will find an adventure everyday in Nepal.
The Himalayas have long since held a mysterious attraction to travelers and trekkers alike. In recent years, there has been a surge of extreme sports to the small Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal. Now, in this part of the world, you can experience some of the most physically and mentally challenging action sports in an exotic destination.
As if trekking, rafting/kayaking, biking and jungle safari are not enough, any adventure mentioned below will entice the ultimate adrenaline junkie.
Ballooning
Sail above the Kathmandu Valley and get your camera ready. These is a grand balloon with 20 person gondola. Your ballooning tour comes complete with a full course breakfast.
Bungy jumping
http://www.visitnepal.com/adventure/nepal_bungy_jumping.gifIf you've always wanted to fly, you have come to the right spot. New to Nepal, this leap of faith will jumpstart an already growing adrenaline sport industry. Balance yourself on the 500ft suspension bridge nestled within the mountains, high above the river. Raw energy begins to flow through the wooden planks, then comes your six seconds of adrenaline.
After your flight, enjoy a relaxing stay in The Last Resort, in the remote areas of Nepal's Bote Kosi river. Activities include rest, relaxation, trekking, meditation in an ancient Parvati temple, and conversations with new friends at the Instant Karma bar.
Canyoninghttp://www.visitnepal.com/adventure/canyon-jump.jpg
The latest adrenaline cocktail of choice is canyoning, an activity that involves abseiling, sliding, jumping and climbing down canyon walls alongside waterfalls to deep pools below.
Swim into narrow passages, through powerful blasts of water and past, wild rock formations. This unique combination of skills gives you the freedom to explore some of the most ruggedly beautiful, yet forbidden places in the world.
http://www.visitnepal.com/adventure/ice_climbing.jpgIce-climbing
Out of the world's 10 highest peaks, eight are found in Nepal, thus being the ideal setting for mountaineering, peak and ice-climbing.
The Himalayas, the world's most well known mountain playground in the world, is a place that every ice-climber should visit at least once in a lifetime. Demanding skills, extreme altitudes, jagged peaks, glaciers and icefalls, heightens your senses, giving you an exhilarating and powerful experience.
Rock climbing
http://www.visitnepal.com/adventure/nepal_rock_climbing.jpgThe growing Himalayas will also tempt those that want to be tethered to them - or do you want to free climb? Whatever your pleasure, these young mountains are sure to offer enough finger-clinging holds to give a lifetime of memories. Most trekking outfitters offer all the gear you'll need for mountaineering. But for more specific climbing needs, consider coming loaded with your own gear.
Mountaineering
Nepal is a country well known for its Himalaya mountains. Among the 10 highest peaks in the world, eight, including the highest peak Mt. Everest, crown this country. Nothing on earth can beat the exhilaration of scaling them. No wonder Nepal is the favorite destination for mountaineers and every year more than 500 expeditions trudge up the Himalaya.
Seasons
There are four seasons for mountaineering in Nepal: spring (March-May), summer (June-August), autumn (September-November) and winter (December-February). A total of 153 Himalayan peaks are open to mountaineers. Climbing permits are issued by the Ministry of Tourism & Civil Aviation (MoTCA) for 135 peaks known as mountaineering peaks, and by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) for 18 smaller peaks, known as trekking peaks, which range from 5,587 to 6,654 m in altitude.
Permission
The following documents have to be sent to MoTCA, Mountaineering Division when applying for a climbing permit: completed application, endorsement of the National Alpine Club, short biographies of all the members of the expedition (with photograph and signature), map and/or photograph of the mountain indicating climbing route and approach route map. Enlistment of the expedition’s name does not require any fee and it should not be paid before receiving the permit from the Ministry of Tourism.
Permits to climb the 18 trekking peaks are issued by NMA on ‘‘first come first served" basis. It is necessary to appoint a government recognized trekking agency of Nepal as a local liaison for the expedition in Kathmandu. The trekking agency will look after all the requirements during the expedition.
Fee
A royalty (climbing fee) ranging from US$ 1,500 to US$ 10,000 (according to the altitude of the peak) and US$ 70,000 for Everest is charged by MoTCA for a group of seven persons. An additional US$ 200 to US$ 1,500 per person (US$ 10,000 per person for Everest) will be charged if the group exceeds seven persons.
The full amount of the royalty has to be paid within two months of the date of issue of the permit, otherwise it may be canceled. The royalty must be paid directly to MoTCA either by bank draft or bank transfer payable in convertible foreign currency only.
For trekking peaks, a royalty of US$ 300 or US$ 150 is charged by NMA. The permit is valid for a period of one month for a group of up to 10 persons. An additional amount of US$ 7.50 per person is charged if the group exceeds 10 persons.
A rebate of up to 40% on the royalty may be given during the summer and winter seasons. Full or partial rebate for a fixed period may be given for new peaks or for unclimbed open peaks, on ‘‘first come first served" basis. On the occasion of Visit Nepal Year ’98, MoTCA has exempted royalty for 28 peaks for the year 1998-99.
Restrictions
Food and equipment imported for expeditions require an import license and should be custom cleared. Walkie-talkies, transceiver sets and other communication equipment are controlled items in Nepal and have to be declared at the customs office at the entry point.
For further information, contact Ministry of Tourism & Civil Aviation, Mountaineering Division, Singha Durbar, Kathmandu; Tel: 4241909 (direct), 4225556 extension: 381, 382 or Nepal Mountaineering Association, Naxal, Kathmandu; Tel: 4411525; Fax: 977-1-4416278.
 
Expeditions
Mt. Everest and other numerous peaks have been climbed many times now. Tenzing Norge Sherpa (pictured in banner above) and Edmund Hillary reached the top of the world in 1953. Hillary stated "Nepal is one of the world's great paradises and one of the nicest countries in the world for trekking."
The Nepal Government is also taking interest to open new and restricted trekking areas and virgin peaks for the summit attempts. Many trekkers and climbers are excited to visit Nepal and test their endurance behind the other great climbers in history. Peaks for the mountaineering are categorized by height, area and royalty.
See VisitNepal.com's Trekking Peaks for current challenges available. For complete details about Mountaineering and Expeditions, visit our sponsor Adventure Thirdpole Treks and Expeditions.
Mountain flight
Airplane
For those who are restricted by time or other considerations from going trekking, there are mountain flights that offer a panoramic encounter with the highest peaks on earth. The plane departs from Kathmandu and flies alongside the Himalaya to give you eye-level views of the snow peaks and then brings you back in one hour. Cruising close to the awesome massifs of rock and ice, the flight presents a mind-boggling sight.
Helicopter
In Nepal, going to remote corners of the Himalaya by helicopter is guaranteed to be an exciting activity. 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. Of course, amazing mountain views are just one part of the ticket.
Ultra-light flying
A new era of recreational aviation has landed in Nepal. Discover the magic of this simple, elemental, pure flight. Feel the wind in your face, observe clear, unobstructed views and explore the stunning landscapes, surrounded by a backdrop of lofty mountain peaks.

Friday, April 20, 2012


Bhutan


INTRODUCTION

The kingdom of Bhutan is sandwiched in the Himalayas between India and the Tibetan region of China. It is situated in the eastern Himalayan region, bordered by Tibet in the North, Sikkim in the west, Indian states of Arunanchal Pradesh in the east and Bengal and Assam, the famous lands of tea, in the south. Cut off for centuries from its neighbors due to its inaccessibility, a visit to Bhutan is much like a journey backwards through time, to a mystical place untouched by the ravages of mankind’s progress… the Last Shangri – La.
CULTURAL TOURS

Bhutan is locally known as Drukyul - the Land of Thunder Dragon. Trips in Bhutan includes visit to old forts, palaces, monasteries, farm house and National museum sightseeing of Satsam Chorten, Taktsang Monastery, Memorial Chorten, National Library, Handicrafts emporium and Tashichho Dzong. Drive to Punakha, across the Dochula Pass and visit. Punaka Dzong. Visit a typical farmhouse where traditional buttered tea with "Zaw" (puffed rice) will be served. See our sponsor's website for more details about Bhutan trip. They will give you a reason to get up early. Check out their programs to find out how.

Enter the Thunder Dragon                          

Day 01: Paro arrival
Day 02: Paro sightseeing – Thimphu
Day 03: Thimphu sightseeing – Paro
Day 04: Paro departure

For cost and detail itinerary please contact info@clubhimalayaholidays.com
Druk Yul Tour
Day 01: Paro arrival
Day 02: Paro Sightseeing – Thimphu
Day 03: Thimphu sightseeing – Wangduephodrang
Day 04: Wangduephodrang – Punakha – Paro                            
Day 05: Paro departure 
 For cost and detail itinerary please contact info@clubhimalayaholidays.com
05 nights 06 days
Day 01: Paro arrival
Day 02: Paro Sightseeing
Day 03: Paro – Thimphu
Day 04: Thimphu sightseeing – Wangduephodrang
Day 05: Wangduephodrang sightseeing – Punakha – Paro
Day 06: Paro departure
For cost and detail itinerary please contact info@clubhimalayaholidays.com
06 nights 07 days
Day 01: Paro arrival
Day 02: Paro Sightseeing
Day 03: Paro – Thimphu
Day 04: Thimphu sightseeing – Wangduephodrang
Day 05: Wangduephodrang sightseeing
Day 06: Wangduephodrang – Punakha – Paro
Day 07: Paro departure
For cost and detail itinerary please contact info@clubhimalayaholidays.com

Gangtey Valley Tour
Day 01: Paro arrival
Day 02: Paro Sightseeing
Day 03: Paro – Thimphu
Day 04: Thimphu sightseeing – Wangduephodrang
Day 05: Wangduephodrang sightseeing
Day 06: Wangduephodrang – Punakha – Paro
Day 07: Paro sightseeing
Day 08: Paro departure
For cost and detail itinerary please contact info@clubhimalayaholidays.com
Heart of Dragon
Day 01: Paro arrival
Day 02: Paro Sightseeing – Thimphu
Day 03: Thimphu sightseeing
Day 04: Thimphu – Punakha – Wangduephodrang
Day 05: Wangduephodrang sightseeing
Day 06: Wangduephodrang – Bumthang
Day 07: Bumthang sightseeing
Day 08: Bumthang – Uram Monastery – Bumthang
Day 09: Bumthang – Wangduephodrang
Day 10: Wangduephodrang – Lobesa – Paro
Day 11: Paro – Taktsang Monastery – Paro
Day 12: Paro departure
For cost and detail itinerary please contact info@clubhimalayaholidays.com
TREKKING:

Classic Laya Trek

Highlights: This is one of the treks that will always rank as one of Bhutan 's finest treks. The route offers fantastic mountain views at close range including Mt. Gangchey Ta (tiger mountain), mother of the female river flowing through Punakha valley. Renowned for its diversity in Himalayan flora and Fauna. Numerous isolated dzongs and scattered settlements including the outlandish village of Laya, a unique culture of its own provide a great deal of cultural interest. Though remote, the Laya region is known for its hospitality and your time here will be delightful. The trek will end with a dip at the Gasa Tshachu (hot spring) relaxing every bone in your body, and the memories of the special trek will stay with you for a lifetime.
Day 01: Paro arrival
Day 02: Paro – Taktsang monastery – Paro
Day 03: Paro – Drugyel Dzong, drive – Shana camp (2800 m)
Day 04: Shana camp – Soi Thangthangkha (3800 m)
Day 05: Soi Thangthangkha – Jangothang (4050 m)
Day 06: Rest day at Jangothang. Explore the surroundings.
Day 07: Jangothang – Nyle la pass (4700 m) – Lingshi (4100 m)
Day 08: Lingshi – Chebisa (3900 m)
Day 09: Chebisa – Gobu la pass (4600 m) – Shomuthang (4250 m)
Day 10: Shomuthang – Jari la pass (4650 m) – Robluthang (4300 m)
Day 11: Robluthang – Shinie la pass (4950 m) – Limithang (4100 m)
Day 12: Limithang – Laya (3850 m)
Day 13: Rest day at Laya. Explore the surroundings.
Day 14: Laya – Koina (3400 m)
Day 15: Koina – Bamela pass (3750 m) – Gasa Hot spring (2200 m)
Day 16: Gasa Hot Spring – Goen Damji (1850 m)
Day 17: Goen Damji – Tashithang (1550 m) – Punakha – Wangduephodrang, drive
Day 18: Wangduephodrang – Thimphu – Paro
Day 19: Paro departure
For cost and detail itinerary please contact info@clubhimalayaholidays.com
Chomolhari Trek
Highlights: This trek gifts you with great variety of Bhutanese landscapes and is without doubt one of the most beautiful and unspoiled trekking areas in the entire Himalayas. The trek begins at Drugyal dzong passing through beautiful villages, scattered hamlets and farmland. Different vegetation from richly forested valley to high alpine pastureland where Yak herders graze their animals. Trout fishing in the sky blue lake with magnificent view of three majestic peaks are some activities, which can be done on a rest day. You will also encounter rare species like the blue sheep & snow leopard.

Day 01: Paro arrival
Day 02: Paro – Taktsang Monastery – Paro
Day 03: Paro – Drugyel Dzong, drive – Shana camp (2800 m)
Day 04: Shana camp – Soi Thangthangkha (3800 m)
Day 05: Soi Thangthangkha – Jangothang (4050 m)
Day 06: Rest day at Jangothang. Explore the surroundings.
Day 07: Jangothang – Nyle la pass (4700 m) – Lingshi (4100 m)
Day 08: Lingshi – Shodu (4950 m)
Day 09: Shodu – Barshong (3500 m)
Day 10: Barshong – Dodina – Thimphu, drive
Day 11: Thimphu – Paro
Day 12: Paro departure
For cost and detail itinerary please contact info@clubhimalayaholidays.com
Druk Trail Trek
Highlights: This is an excellent choice for those with a tight schedule. A short 4 days trek crossing the chain of mountains which separates two district, Paro & Thimphu or vice versa. This is a classic walk along high, windy ridges, past ruined forts, which long ago guarded against Tibetan invasion. Although the route is sparsely inhabited there are wonderful lakes teeming with fish and the area is famous for its spectacular rhododendron forests, which bloom in spring. The views of the Himalayas can be seen in late autumn and winter.
Day 01: Paro arrival
Day 02: Paro sightseeing
Day 03: Paro – Taktsang monastery – Paro
Day 04: Paro – Jele Dzong, trek (3100 m)
Day 05: Jele dzong – Jangchulakha (3650 m)
Day 06: Jangchulakha – Jigmelangtsho (3600 m)
Day 07: Jigmelangtsho – Phajoding (3500 m)
Day 08: Phajoding – Thimphu
Day 09: Thimphu – Wangduephodrang, drive
Day 10: Wangduephodrang – Punakha – Paro
Day 11: Paro departure
For cost and detail itinerary please contact info@clubhimalayaholidays.com
Other Itineraries
1.      Gangtey Valley Tour – 7 nights / 8 days  (these are the links to be made)
2.      5 nights 6 days program
3.      3 nights 4 days program
VISA INFORMATION:

Visa application procedure is required to done in advance through tour operator and receive advance approval before you travel to Bhutan but actual visa are issued only when you arrive in the country. A three copies passport sized photograph is required on arrival.

Visa fee:
Entries
Fee
Single Entry
US$ 20 for 14 days.

US $10 as tourism development fee must be paid on arrival.