Nowhere in the world is the altitude variation so pronounced as in Nepal. The change in elevation is dramatic – from the soaring Mount Everest, the highest point on earth to flat Gangetic plains, which rise only a few meters from sea level. The lowland Terai occupies about 17% of the total land area of the country while the rest of the country is rugged mountainous terrain. Nature has been kind to our small Himalayan kingdom. A peculiar and unrivaled ecosystem, it manifests itself within a span of a few hundred kilometers - from the icy cold Himalayan peaks to the sweltering tiger prowling plains. It is a treasure trove of natural wonders with eight of the fourteen highest peaks in the world crowned by the mighty Mt. Everest and home to the rare animals like the Royal Bengal tiger and the one horned rhino. No adjective is enough to describe “the true Nepal”. Strange, magical, mystical, invigorating, enriching - the list goes on. Snow clad peaks, rugged barren high altitude deserts, green terraced fields, rustic hamlets, lush green valleys and sprawling plains - the country has everything to satisfy the palate of a traveler. The land of the Buddha for a traveler looking for peace and serenity; home to the intimidating Mt. Everest for an avid mountaineer; rushing big volume whitewater for a river runner; a haven with several species of rare and distinct flora and fauna for an ardent nature lover.It is a perfect heaven to look for some seclusion and cut loose for the daily grind and discover your true self. The unparalleled beauty and rich culture of Nepal makes a trip to the country an exhilarating and culturally enriching experience.
Nepalese Visa
The Nepalese visa can be obtained at the Nepalese Embassy, Consulates or Missions abroad or at the immigration counter at the port of entry in Nepal.
Multiple entry tourist visas are issued for a period valid for 15 days at US$ 25, 30 days for US$ 40 and 90 days for US$ 100 per person. You will require two passport size photos to acquire the visa.
Best Season
It is best to visit this region in spring and autumn.
Spring generally begins in March and ends in May. Though there is a slight haze the forests covered with a riot of scarlet colored rhododendrons, primulas, daisies, white magnolias and a host of other beautiful plants making a trek an exhilarating experience.
Mid September heralds the beginning of the autumn season. Mid September to mid November enjoys excellent climate coupled with deep blue sky and clear days making this period the best trekking period of the year.
Nepalese time
Nepal time is ahead by 5h45 than international GMT.
During winter if it is 12h00 in France it is 16h45 in Népal.
During summer it if is 12h00 in France it is 15h45 in Népal.
People
The incredible landscape pales in comparison to the warmth and friendliness of the Nepalese people. The country, which has approximately 22 million people, is a complex mélange of different ethnic groups - each with a distinctive lifestyle, cultural flavor and dialect. The Mongoloids who mainly constitute of the Rais, Limbus, Tamangs, Gurungs inhabit the slopes of the western and eastern mid hills. As you go higher up you come across hardy mountain people of Tibetan descent like the Sherpas and the Dolpapas whose domain are the highest habitable regions of the Himalayas. The indigenous people of the Kathmandu valley, the Newars, constitute an important ethnic group of the capital. Tharus, Yadavas, Satars, Rajvanshis and Dhimals inhabit the plains while the Brahmins, Chhetris and Thakuris, all of whom are of Aryan descent, are scattered throughout the country.
Religion & Culture
Superstition holds sway in virtually all parts of the globe but nowhere is it so much evident as in Nepal. Our beliefs are replete with deities, symbols and rituals, and bit of history woven into the mystical tapestry. Despite its manifold forms it has one common thread - religion which is deeply rooted in the Nepalese psyche. Almost every social aspect in the Nepalese way of life is governed by religion. The birthplace of Lord Buddha and a major Hindu nation it is a melting point of Hindu and Buddhist philosophies and beliefs. Temples and monasteries dot every nook and corner of the country and devotees taking a dip in the river or unfurling a prayer flag or offering prayers are all common sights. A multi ethnic society has given birth to a unique blend of culture and religion. Other religions like Christianity and Islam are also practiced.
Climate
Nowhere is the world is the climate so distinct and poles apart. The long stretch of the northern frontier, which is mostly rugged terrain, towered by the mighty Himalayas experiences arctic type of climate and a few hours down south on the fringes of the Indian borderlands the landscape and climate changes dramatically as the elevation decreases. With lush green tropical forests and vast stretches of plains one can encounter hot humid climate.
The year is divided into 4 different seasons in Nepal - winter, spring, monsoon and autumn. The best period to visit the country for plant lovers is during spring when the flowers are in full bloom. The mountain slopes are covered with beautiful and colorful flowers. Spring season commences from early March and continues until late May. Even though the days are clear, haze disturbs the mountain views. Late May, and the downpour begins. It continues till late August. Come September and autumn season begins. It continues till late November. With temperate climate, clear blue skies and extraordinary mountain views it is the best season to visit the country. Winter begins in late November and continues till late February.
