25th July: Nepal Government Introduce Home-Stay Tourism Project

In order to meet Nepal Tourism Year 2011's target of 1 million visitors to Nepal, the Nepal Government is planning to launch “Home-Stay” programs as tourism products from 17th August, 2010. An added advantage for the tourist who opts for a home-stay over commercial accommodations like lodges and hotels is that, the ‘home-stay’ facility will allow the tourists to experience Nepali culture and traditions first hand. By living with a local family, he/she will get to truly experience life in Nepal. The home-stay facility will be available in both rural and urban areas.

22nd July: Hyatt doth protest too much

The Hyatt Group of hotels has properly stirred things up as far as their staff is concerned. Almost a thousand workers spread across 14-cities in North America are set to observe a day of non-violent protest against the hotel chain’s “unfair treatment” of its staff, even as the company benefits from the slow but steady financial recovery.

21st July: Nepal Participated TTE Fair

Together with four Nepalese private travel trade companies, Nepal Tourism Board participated in the TTE fair held in Kolkatta, India from 16-18 July 2010.The Nepalese stall received an overwhelming response from the visitors. The visitors showed interest on Nepal Tourism Year 2011 and inquired about special packages and incentives. During the event NTB felicitated two Mount Everest climbers from Kolkatta. The summiteers made a power-point presentation made on their journey to Nepal and Mt. Everest.

20th July: Germany for consistent air tax

Germany plans to charge air passenger tax according to the distance travelled. To be put in motion from 2011, the tax will be set at between 13-26 euros. Although both national carriers Lufthansa and Air Berlin protested against this, German daily Handelsblatt quoted Peter Ramsauer, German Transport Minister, as having said that he proposed for the tax to be extended to other European countries too, in a bid at consistency.

18th July: Nepalese Food and Cultural Festival in Australia

A two week long festival to promote Nepalese culture and Nepal Tourism Year 2011 kick started in the Australian city of Adelaide from July 15, 2010. The Nepalese Food and Cultural Festival is being held at Stamford Plaza, located at the center of the city. The main attraction of the festival is Nepalese food, arts and architecture.

15th July: International Climate Change Meeting at Kathmandu

An international meet on climate change is being organized by the Government of Nepal and will be held in Kathmandu from 4th to 5th October 2010. Invitations have been sent to 51countries with mountains higher than 4000m. International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), DFID, Embassy of Denmark in Nepal, European Union, World Bank, Asian Development Bank and UNDP are supporting the government in organizing this meet.

14th July: Nepal Participated at All Nations Festival in Germany.

Nepal participated at the ‘All Nations Festival’ held in Germany on 10th July, 2010. The festival was organized by Berlin Association for International Exchange (BGIB) with the aim of cultural exchange as well as tourism promotion. The festival saw the participation of 28 European Associations as well as foreign diplomatic missions. The Embassy of Nepal in Berlin represented Nepal. Culture of Nepal’s ethnic communities, traditional dishes and the various destinations in Nepal were showcased during the festival.

13th July: Borderlands PDP organized Team Building Event for PSI Nepal

The Borderlands PDP organized a day-long Team Building Event for 67 participants including Mr. Andrew Boner, Country Representative from Population Services International (PSI/Nepal). Organized on July 9th, 2010 at Godavari Village Resort, ... more

12th July: Kailash-Mansarovar Heli Yatra

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra holds immense religious values for the Hindus. Believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, Mt. Kailash is claimed to be the apex of the Hindu religious axis. Lord Shiva or Bhola Baba is the most beloved among the thousands of Hindu deities. Hence, there are uncountable devotees who take on this tour to receive the blessings of Lord Shiva and attain spiritual contentment.
Completing a Kora (Parikrama) around Mt. Kailash is believed to erase the sins of a lifetime. To complete the Kailash pilgrimage, one should bathe in the sacred Lake Manasarovar, which lies only 30km from Mt Kailash. According to Hindu Mythology, it was formed in the mind of Brahma, and the Goddess Parvati is believed to have taken the form of the lake Manasarovar. Even drinking the waters of the lake frees a human being from sins of all kind as well as illness. Myth has it that the Gods come to bathe every morning in this lake between 3 to 5 am and this time is called ‘Brahmamuhurta’. Another legend has it that Parashuram’s ashram is situated on a hill, on the banks of Manasarovar.

5th July: Nepali culture and food festival in Sri Lanka

A ten-days long ‘Nepalese Cultural and Food Festival’ was held in Colombo, Sri Lanka from 18th to 27th June 2010.The festival was organized by the Embassy of Nepal in Sri Lanka, in association with Nepal Tourism Board (NTB). Among other visitors, the festival had 300 special guests, including leaders of business community, tourism professionals, social and political personalities and senior government officials of Sri Lanka as well as ambassadors, high commissioners and other senior diplomats based in Colombo. Cultural programmers by the Nepali troupe entertained visitors to the festival. Speaking at the festival, His Excellency Sushil Chandra Amatya, ambassador of Nepal to Sri Lanka, expressed his confidence that the event would help bring Sri Lankan people closer to Nepal and fuel their interest to visit Nepal in the future.

4th July: Over 2 Million Visitors at Nepal Pavilion, World Expo 2010

At the ongoing World Expo 2010 in Shanghai, China, Nepal Pavilion is proving to be quite a hit among visitors. The pavilion has been visited by more than 2 million visitors. Formally inaugurated on 1st May, 2010 the Expo will run till 31st October. Reports quote Binayak Shah, Director of Nepal Pavilion, as saying the popularity of the Nepal Pavilion has been mainly due to media coverage. There has been extensive coverage by the Chinese media – radio, television, newspapers and magazines. Media from Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan has also reported many news stories about Nepal National Pavilion.

30th June: SAARC Chamber Craft Village Sales Outlet in Nepal

The SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) Chamber Crafts Village has recently opened its sales outlet in Pulchowk, Lalitpur, Nepal. The outlet is a sortium of 17 Nepali fair trade organizations, which is managed by Fair Trade Group-Nepal (FTG-Nepal). The sales outlet specially promotes and sells products and handicrafts made by women artists and farmers from SAARC member countries. Some of the productions which are in its sales outlet are wall hangings from Bhutan, beaded and shell jewelery from India and Maldives, handloom bags from Afghanistan, kantha bed covers from Bangladesh, hand-embroidered carpets from Pakistan and natural fiber purses from Sri Lanka.

29th June: Syangja to Introduced Agro Tourism

The villagers of Syangja, in mid-west Nepal decided to introduce agro tourism in their village as they are well versed in commercial agricultural production. Some of the villagers including Jagat Bhanjyang, Sirsekot, Majhkot are ready to welcome foreign tourist as well as domestic tourist to experience village life. The villagers had already introduced ‘Home Stay’ schemes and can accommodate up to five guests. From each household having membership in the village is receiving training in cooking and home stay management. All the visitors will get to know and experience first hand farming methods used by the farmers.

28th June: Bhoto Jatra observed

The Bhoto Jatra was celebrated on 27th June 2010, formally closing the long journey of the rain god Machendranath on his chariot throughout Lalitpur. The bejeweled Bhoto (vest) was shown thrice to the public as per the tradition. Including President Dr. Ram Baran Yadav, CA chairman Subas Chandra Newang and other constitutional and governmental officials attended the ceremony. The Bhoto Jatra was formally witnessed by the living goddess, Kumari and Nepal’s Royal family. It is longest cultural festival in Nepal celebrated by the Newar community of Lalitpur, Kathmandu and Bhaktapur.

27th June: Nepali Food attracting visitors to Nepal Pavilion at World Expo 2010.

According to Sanghai Daily, Nepali food served at Nepal Pavilion at the ongoing World Expo 2010 in Shanghai and is proving to be a big hit among visitors. The reports quotes Bishan Shah, the pavilion’s F&B Manager, the Nepali set consisting of steamed rice with dried grapes, fried chicken, Aachar is priced at 40 yuan (US$5.90) and they sell almost 500 sets every day, on weekends around 800 sets. A serving of vegetables curry is the most popular dish of Nepal Pavilion at World Expo 2010.

23rd June: Buddha air adds new aircraft to its fleet.

Buddha Air has recently added a ATR 72-500 to its fleet. This 70 seater aircraft brings the total to eight aircrafts in its fleet. The ATR 72-500 is built by a French-Italian aircraft manufacturer. The new aircraft landed at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) on 21st June, 2010. According to Buddha Air, the new aircraft is scheduled to begin its operation from 22nd June 2010. With the latest addition, the airline is also targeting its international operations which it plans to launch in September.

22nd June: Air Ambulance of Fishtail Air

18th June, 2010 was a day when a patient was flown from Pokhara to Kathmandu on Fishtail Air’s air ambulance for urgent medical care in Kathmandu. The Fishtail Air’s air ambulance had a medical team of doctors and helpers accompanying the patient along with the pilots. Fishtail Air has introduced air ambulance facilities in its helicopters for the purpose to save lives at risk. The air ambulance has medical facilities and equipments supplied by Air Zermatt which can be fitted or detached in minutes. According to Fishtail Air, their service will benefit not only injured mountaineers but also patients from far- flung areas in need of emergency medical care.

21st June: Mt. Everest to be scale by employees of Nepalese Government

A total team of 20 Nepalese government employees, including a woman, is preparing to climb Mt. Everest next spring. The total 20 team members were trained in Mountaineering at Pasang Lhamu Mountaineering Federation and Nagarjun. To be successful to climb Mt. Everest, the team left Rasuwa District in the third week of june to climb Yala Peak which is 5,550m high. The whole team is led by Mr. Leelamani Poudyal, Secretary, Prime Minister’s Office. The government has exempted permit fee and is also bearing all expenses of the expedition.

20th June: The New Elected Executive Body of Nepal Mountaineering Association

Mr. zimba Zangbu Sherpa has been elected as a new president of Nepal Mountaineering Association, similarly Dibas Bikram Shah as a new general secretary. The new elected members were Dawa Steven Sherpa, Sonam Chhiring Sherpa, Maya Sherpa, Rajendra Man Shrestha, Ang Dawa Sherpa, Om Man Shrestha Pasang Sherpa, Thaman Singh Tamang and Usha Bista.

15th June: Pokhara-New Delhi linked with direct bus service

A private transportation company has been ferrying tourists and Nepalese citizens between Pokhara and New Delhi. Presently the bus service runs for three days a week, but taking into consideration NTY 2011 and the increased frequency of tourist arrivals, the company has decided to ply its buses 6 days a week from mid-July. Though most of the passengers are Nepalese and Indian tourists, tourists from Japan, America, England, and Israel have also been found favoring this direct bus service.

11th June: China to Impose Age limit on Mt. Everest Climbers

Chinese officials have decided to impose age limits for Mt. Everest climbers who are wishing to climb from the Tibet side other peaks in Tibet from the next climbing season, followed by 13 year old Romero’s ascent to Mt. Everest from Tibet side. Though Chinese officials have not made any public age limit, restrictions may apply to climbers below 18 and above 60 years of age according to sources. For the moment China have no age restrictions for climbers.

9th June: The tallest Shiva statue of Nepal to be inaugurated on June, 2010

Under the initiative of Nepal's Jain community, the tallest Shiva statue was constructed and is set to open for public visit from the fourth week of June, 2010. The 108 feet tall statue in Sanga is located around 20 Km away from Kathmandu on the way to Banepa. According to project sponsor Mr. Kamal Jain, The tallest Shiva statue will be officially on June 21, 2010 by president Dr. Ram Baran Yadav. The function will be graced by his holiness Shankaracharya from Badri.

7th June: Inauguration of 10th Bagmati River Festival.

The 10th Bagmati River Festival was inaugurated on June 5, 2010 at Pashupati Aryaghat. The inauguration and cleanup program was addressed by Mr. Megh Ale, Founder President of NRCT, Ani Choyang Dolma, Singer and Mr. Mahesh Basnet, President- High Power Community for Integrated Bagmati Civilization. more

6th June: Villagers Introduce Home-Stay Packages in Dhital.

The villagers of Dhital in Kaski District, Annapurna Region introduce ‘home-stay’ packages, as lots of tourists have seem to give this village a miss due to lack of lodging and fooding. Approximately 200 houses are offering home stay services to tourists with beautiful mountain scenery and mesmerizing views of snowy peaks. Followed by the villagers are hoping that the introduction of home stay would encourage tourists from different countries and thus improving their economic status.

4th June: Climate Change Affecting Lives in Nepal.

According to a report on English daily ‘Republica’, for the first time in Nepal an entire village had to be relocated owing to difficulties arising out of climate change. Dhe, a village in Surkhang VDC of Upper Mustang with a total of 23 households had to be resettled in Thangchung in Lower Mustang. The village has been facing an acute shortage of water for irrigation over the last six to seven years. The irrigated land has reduced to less than 50 percent and animal husbandry (particularly goat keeping) has declined to 45 percent. The village’s relocation plan is being developed by World Wildlife Fund, Nepal. The new settlement is expected to be the first model village of climate refugees.

2nd June: Chaophya Park Hotel, Bangkok won Ecotourism Award

The inaugural Skal Asia Ecotourism Award has been won by the Chaophya Park Hotel and Resort, Bangkok. The award recognizes the hotel’s outstanding efforts to reduce waste, save energy and promote sustainable tourism. Chaophya Park General Manager Andrew Wood received the award from Skal Asia President Gerry Perez and Skal International VP and Director of Development Tony Boyle. The presentation was made during the 39th Skal Asia Congress in Cebu.
“The Skal Asia Ecotourism Award is to be presented each year to an Asian Area Skålleague, or teams of Skålleagues, who have undertaken an environmentally responsible project that has benefitted the community at large,” explains Andrew Wood. “This is a great honor for our hotel and is a fitting tribute to the outstanding efforts of all our staff.”

1st June: More Tourist Coaches Hit the Road to Pokhara

To facilitate overland travel to Pokhara for the increasing number of tourists visiting Nepal , tourism entrepeurs are busy putting more tourist buses on the road. Prior to Nepal Tourism Year 2011, some transport companies are planning to start a direct shuttle service from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu to Pokhara. Some of these luxury coaches will have facilities of changing and smoking rooms.

31st May: Free visa approved for summiteers of Mt. Everest and Mt. Dhaulagiri

In light of the upcoming Nepal Tourism Year 2011, the Government of Nepal has approved free visa for summiteers of Mt. Everest and Mt. Dhaulagiri for the rest of 2010 and 2011. Similarly, for the same period, the Government has also approved a 50 percent concession on the Royalty of Mt. Dhaulagiri.

30th May: Borderlands organizes a program on the occasion of Buddha Jayanti

Borderlands organized a program to mark Buddha Jayanti on May 27- 28, 2010 at the Borderlands Eco Adventure Resort. Around 15 participants including guests, media personnel and travel agents were at...more

27th May: Buddha Air operates maiden flight to Bhutan

On May 25, 2010, Buddha Air, Nepal’s first private airlines to fly to Bhutan, successfully operated its test flight to Paro International Airport, Bhutan. Commercial flight from Kathmandu to Paro is scheduled to begin from July 17, 2010. Initially, the airline will operate four flights a week and from September onwards, the commercial flights will take off on a daily basis. Buddha Air will also operate one charter and one commercial flight from October.

26th May: Emirates launches ‘Mobile Emirates.com’

With the launch of ‘Mobile Emirates.com’, Emirates customers around the globe can now book flights through their mobile phones. Designed to work with over 3000 mobile devices, Mobile Emirates.com has been optimized to ensure that customers on the move can easily access the website to book their flights. The new sophisticated functionality allows customers to book and manage flights, mobile check-in, search flight schedules and status and check the in-flight amenities available on a specific flight. Customers must have an internet enabled device to access Mobile Emirates.com.

25th May: World Tourism Day 2010 to celebrate ‘Tourism and Biodiversity’

The theme for the World Tourism Day celebrations, to be hosted by China on September 27, is ‘Tourism and Biodiversity’ which provides a unique opportunity to raise public awareness on the importance of biodiversity to tourism and the role of sustainable tourism in the conservation of life on Earth. Global online photo competition capturing a link between tourism and biodiversity and sharing inspiring stories that contribute to raise awareness on tourism and biodiversity is the highlight of WTD celebrations.

24th May: Australia Sales Mission 2010 concludes

To promote Nepal Tourism Year 2011 and other tourism attractions of Nepal, a Sales Mission was organized in Australia from May 18-21, 2010 in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. Nepal Tourism Board in coordination with Nepal Embassy, Canberra and Consulate of Nepal in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane organized the Sales Mission. Presentation of tourism products and attractions of Nepal, aims and objectives of NTY 2011, appraising the Australian travel writers/ entrepreneurs about the positive situation in Nepal etc. were some of the highlights of the Mission.

23rd May: Air France and Vietnam Airlines sign code-share agreement

Air France has signed a code-share agreement with Vietnam Airlines whereby, starting July 3, 2010, its customers can fly non-stop from Paris- Charles de Gaulle to either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City three times a week. Air France will be offering 13 instead of 7 flights a week, including 6 between Paris and Hanoi and 7 between Paris and Ho Chi Minh City.

21st May: Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation offers free visas to Everest summiteers.

In a bid to attract more tourists during Nepal Tourism Year 2011, the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation is offering free visas to foreign mountaineers who have already scaled Mt. Everest in the past. Similarly, the ministry has also waived royalty for mountaineers, desiring to climb Mt. Dhaulagiri, by 50 percent. As per the ministry’s new provision, the royalty for Mt. Dhaulagiri has been slashed to US$ 2,500 from US$ 5,000. However, the above mentioned provisions will be valid only till December 2011.

20th May: TAM launches Frequent Flyer Program.

TAM Airlines, the official member of Star Alliance since May 13, 2010, began 16 new Frequent Flyer Program agreements increasing the number of benefits offered to clients through the TAM Fidelidade program. The partnership includes companies like: Adria Airways, Air China, Thai, Spanair etc. TAM Fidelidade clients and frequent flyer clients of the partner airlines will be able to accrue and redeem points/miles in any flight operated by one of the new partners.

19th May: High Rope Course organized for UN-OCHA

27 participants from UN-OCHA actively participated during the program organized by Borderlands PDP on May 18, 2010. In addition to the High Rope activities, the day-long High Rope Course comprised of energizing activities like: T-other side, human spiral and blind-folded walk.more

17th May: Borderlands PDP organizes an Office Retreat Program for UNDP staff

The staff of UNDP Nepal participated in an Office Retreat program organized by the Borderlands PDP at Fulbari Resort, Pokhara, from May 12-15, 2010. There were a total of 97 participants in the fun-filled yet educational program. The four-day long program, which saw active participation from the participants, focused on various activities that assisted the participants in harnessing various skills such as: Communication (verbal and non- verbal ), team building, unity, team work, leadership, trust, active listening, cooperation and coordination, planning skills etc. apart from enjoying themselves. more

14th May: Thailand wins awards during ‘TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice 2010’.

Thailand won four out of 10 TripAdvisor Awards for top Asian beach destinations during ‘TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice 2010’ awards. Thailand won the award for ‘Top 10 Beach and Sun Destinations in Asia’, ‘Top 10 Culture and Sightseeing Destinations in Asia’, ‘Top 10 Food and Wine Destinations in Asia’, ‘Top 10 Romance Destinations in Asia’ and ‘Top 10 Relaxation and Spa Destinations in Asia’. TripAdvisor features traveler reviews, advice and opinions of vacation destinations around the world.

13th May: Manchester Airport initiates the trial of luggage tag.

Manchester Airport, in conjunction with CallUma (travel service specialist), has taken the initiative to run a dual-branded airport trial to provide all customers with durable track able luggage tags. The tags include identity protection and an enhanced lost luggage recovery tracking service. The worldwide industry-recognized tracking symbol and unique customer tracking number quickly identifies owners and reunites them with their misplaced or lost belongings.

12th May: Oh Eun-Sun successfully scaled the world’s 14 mountains.

Oh Eun-Sun, a South Korean climber became the first woman to scale the world’s 14 highest peaks after completing the ascent of Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m) in Nepal on April 27, 2010. All the 14 mountains exceeding 8,000 meters are located in Asia’s Himalayas and the Karakoram ranges. Oh claimed the feat almost 13 years after climbing Gasherbrum II in July 1997.

10th May: Nepal successfully participated in Arabian Travel Market 2010

Nepal Tourism Board in association with Nepal Airlines Corporation and eight travel trade companies successfully participated in the Arabian Travel Market held in Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Center from May 4-7, 2010. The Nepal stall addressed issues of visa, travelling formalities and Nepal Tourism Year 2011 and was able to garner a lot of attention from the trade visitors and exhibitors. The main aim of the Nepal stall was to cater to and enhance the traffic flow from the Middle East market.

9th May: 2010 World Expo underway in Shanghai

Nepal is promoting ‘Nepal Tourism Year 2011’ at the 2010 World Expo that is underway in Shanghai, China from May 1, 2010. Various activities are promoted in the Nepal pavilion with millions of Chinese language brochures being distributed at the event. The Expo, with around 200 international organizations, will continue till October 31, 2010 and is expected to draw 70 million national and international visitors.

8th May: Tourist arrivals in the month of April 2010

The figures released by Immigration Office, Tribhuvan International Airport, show that tourist arrivals in April 2010 increased by 2.3% compared to April 2009. Arrivals from South Asian and Asian region showed a positive growth except for arrivals from India and Sri Lanka. Bangladesh, Pakistan, China, Malaysia and South Korea showed an increase in the number of arrivals. USA and Canada showed an improvement whereas arrivals from Australia and New Zealand declined. The European market also registered a negative growth during April.

30th April: Incheon International Airport wins ASQ award

Incheon International Airport has won the ACI annual Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Award making it the world’s best airport for 5 consecutive years. The airport scored the highest marks in ACI’s ASQ survey in three categories namely: Best Airport Worldwide, Best Airport in Asia-Pacific and Best Airport with annual passenger traffic between 25 and 40 million. The award ceremony will be held at 5 ACI Asia-Pacific Regional Assembly, Conference and Exhibition in China on May 13, 2010.

29th April: Visa Facilitation Agreement between the EU and Georgia

The European Commission proposed the conclusion of visa facilitation and readmission agreements with Georgia. The draft agreements are the result of recent negotiations between Georgia and the EU and once in force, they will make it easier for Georgians to apply for visas, making procedures faster, reducing paperwork and lowering the visa fees. Additionally, the readmission agreement will ensure the return of those who illegally stay in the EU.

28th April: JITOA launches Environmental Network

Jordan Inbound Tour Operators Association (JITOA) announced the launch of its Environmental Network, a part of the Jordan Tourism Environmental Initiative ‘Don’t Mess with Nature’ that was launched with the aim of raising public awareness on the importance of preserving nature and environmental sustainability through environmental friendly practices in the Jordan Tourism Sector. The network will be an interactive online forum for individuals, related stakeholders and organizations.

27th April: U.S. and Israel has an Open-Skies agreement

U.S. and Israel reached an Open-Skies aviation agreement liberalizing air services for carriers of both countries. The agreement allows the countries to select routes and destinations based on consumer demand for passenger and cargo services, without limitations on the number of carriers that fly between the two countries or the number of flights. The agreement also provides unlimited opportunities for U.S. and Israeli carriers to serve the market through cooperative marketing arrangements, including code-sharing.

26th April: Expedia.com offers more than 1,700 green-certified hotel destinations

To commemorate the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day, Expedia.com announced that it has greatly expanded the company’s Green Hotel program and now offers more than 1,700 ‘green’ hotels to travelers. Expedia.com has also partnered with TerraPass to create carbon offset bundles, based on distance flown, to fund clean energy and carbon reduction projects. Customers booking accommodations can save big when booking eco-friendly hotels as a package through Expedia.com.

25th April: Kingfisher Airlines launches flights on Kathmandu-New Delhi route

Kingfisher Airlines, India’s only five star airline rated by Skytrax, has launched daily flights on Kathmandu- New Delhi sector from April 24, 2010. The flights, using Airbus A320 aircraft, will feature Kingfisher Class- the premium economy service from Kingfisher Airlines. Launching of the flight offers excellent connectivity with Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Kolkata, Chennai, Leh and London amongst other cities.

23rd April: Borderlands PDP organized a program for Mercedes Benz- India

Borderlands PDP, one of its kind in Nepal with years of experience in the training field, organized a program for participants from Mercedes Benz- India on April 22, 2010. The day long program saw active participation from all the 30 participants. more

22nd April: Team Building program organized for Ncell Marketing Team

The Borderlands PDP organized a day-long Team Building Program for 11 participants from Ncell’s Marketing Team. Organized on April 21, 2010 at Gokarna Forest Resort, the program was fun filled and educational as all the games and initiatives were focused on experiential learning. Throughout the day, the participants actively participated in various activities including: ...more

21st April: Flight operations to, from and within Europe being gradually restored

Flight operations across Europe is being gradually restored with the new guidance, issued by the UK Civil Aviation Authority in conjunction with the Irish Aviation Authority, allowing a phased reintroduction of flights. The European airspace is reopening even though there are some ‘no fly zones’ where concentrations of ash are at unsafe levels for flights.

9th April: PADT organizes awareness campaign for NTY 2011

Pashupati Area Development Trust (PADT) organized a seven-day motorcycle rally starting April 7, 2010 with a view to promote religious and internal tourism. A team of 40 persons comprising of 27 PADT employees and 13 locals left for Muktinath in Mustang district. The event, an awareness campaign for Nepal Tourism Year (NTY) 2011, will reach Muktinath via Pokhara and Baglung.

8th April: Nepal’s domestic and international flights to be affected for 16 days

Effective April 8, 2010, the only radar at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) will be undergoing maintenance and all domestic and international flights (arriving and departing) will be affected. The TIA has requested all airlines to cut down their flights for 16 days to cope with the air traffic. Dinesh Shrestha, GM, TIA, has stated that even if international flights are allowed to land and take-off, most domestic flights will be cancelled. The radar tracks the position of the flights as they prepare to land and take off at the airport.

7th April: NTY 2011’s Three Phase Plan launched

The organizing committee of Nepal Tourism Year (NTY) 2011 has launched a three-phase promotion and preparation program for the success of NTY 2011. The first phase was the national campaign’s formal launch, the second phase comprises of capacity building and product development and the third phase will be the promotion and marketing for the campaign. Yogendra Shakya, the national coordinator for NTY 2011 said that efforts are underway to improve the capacity of air transport, ground transport and expanding the accommodation facilities.

6th April: Mt. Everest to be scaled 20th time

Apa Sherpa, World Record holder for 19 successful expeditions to Mt. Everest, is all set to scale it once again on April 20, 2010. Apa has climbed Mt. Everest for 8 straight years since May 16, 2002. The expedition’s missions are: unfold Nepal Tourism Year 2011’s flag at the top of Everest, collect and bring down seven tons of garbage from Mt. Everest (6 tons from Camp 2 and 1 ton from above Camp 2) and to place the ashes of late Sir Edmund Hillary on Mt. Everest to commemorate his death anniversary. The expedition team comprises of Apa and Dawa Steven Sherpa as climbing leaders and Nanga Dorje Sherpa as Sirdar.

5th April: March sees an increase in the number of tourist arrivals

Tourist arrivals, by air only, registered a growth of 34.6 % during the month of March 2010 compared to March 2009. The figures released by Immigration office, Tribhuvan International Airport reveal that arrivals from South Asian region, except for Sri Lanka, have increased by 35.3 %. Other Asian countries also maintained an upward trend excluding Thailand and Singapore. An overall growth of 42 % has been observed in the European market. An increasing trend was also seen in the visitor arrivals from the United States of America with a notable growth of 6.5 %. Canada, Australia and New Zealand have also increased during the said period.

4th April: Everest Bank’s Board of Directors’ meeting held at Borderlands Eco Adventure Resort

Everest Bank’s Board of Directors’ meeting was held at Borderlands Eco Adventure Resort on April 2-3, 2010. There were a total of 23 participants including Mr. B. B. Raymajhi...more

2nd April: Sankhu Mahotsav 2010 underway

Sankhu Mahotsav 2010 has kicked off in Sankhu, Nepal from April 2-4, 2010. The festival coincides with Goddess Vajrayogini’s Festival during which, as per the belief, the goddess descends to Sankhu from her temple complex, 2 kms above the hill in the north of Sankhu. Exhibitions, cultural extravaganza, food festival, talent show etc. are some of the highlights of the Mahotsav. The Mahotsav is expected to add more attraction to the Goddess Vajrayogini’s Festival, which is a grand festival in itself.

1st April: Bahrain Air in Nepal

Bahrain Air, Bahrain’s first premium service carrier, launched its daily flights on the Bahrain-Kathmandu route on March 30, 2010 making Kathmandu the 17th destination on its network. Earlier, the airline was operating only four flights in a week. Modern Air Bus A320 or A319 aircraft with 12 Premium Class and 150 Economy Class seats will be used to serve the growing demand of the passengers on the said route.

31st March: International flights to be launched

Buddha Air and Air Dynamic have received permit from the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation to launch international flights to various destinations. Buddha Air will be operating flights to India (Pokhara-Lucknow, Janakpur- Patna) and Bhutan (Kathmandu-Thimpu) whereas Air Dynamic will be operating flights on the Bhairahawa-Gaya, Kathmandu-Delhi, Kathmandu-Karachi, Kathmandu-Doha, Kathmandu-Bengaluru, Kathmandu-Bagdogra and Kathmandu-Kuala Lumpur sector.

30th March: Nepal participates in GITF 2010

Nepal Tourism Board and 4 leading travel trade companies from Nepal participated in the 18th edition of Guangzhou International Travel Fair (GITF) held in Guangzhou, China from March 25-27, 2010. The fair, one of the most extensive and significant travel fair of Asia Pacific region, saw a huge participation from other countries as well. Various tourism products highlighting Nepal Tourism Year 2011 was displayed in the Nepal pavilion which was visited by a large number of visitors.

29th March: Number of mishandled baggage decreases

As per the SITA 2010 Baggage Report, the number of air passenger’s mishandled baggage has dropped by 23.8% resulting in savings of $ 460 million for the world’s airlines in 2009. SITA, the aviation IT specialist, operates WorldTracer, the industry-standard, fully-automated system for tracing mishandled passenger baggage used by more than 440 airlines and ground-handling companies worldwide. While the vast majority of mishandled bags are restored to their owners within 48 hours or less, just 3.4% of all 25.025 million mishandled bags go either unclaimed or, in rare instances, are stolen.

28th March: TIMS Card necessary from April 1, 2010

Effective April 1, 2010, overseas trekkers will be required to obtain a Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card before they set off for a trek. As per the Memorandum of Understanding signed between Nepal Tourism Board and Trekking Agents Association of Nepal, trekkers travelling through trekking companies have to pay US $ 10 and free individual trekkers need to pay US $20 per trekking route. The amount collected will be used for the welfare of tourism sector workers, exploration and improvement of new trail destinations and its infrastructure development.

26th March: Balloon Fiesta launched in Pokhara

After the five day long Balloon Fiesta was launched in Pokhara on March 23, 2010, hot air balloon flights will be a regular feature in the adventure activities in Pokhara, as per Nepal Tourism Board. The Balloon Fiesta was launched by Pokhara Tara Air with alpine consultant, Wolfgang Nairz. Tara Air will be starting commercial balloon flights with two balloons effective April 1st week, 2010. A balloon can carry 6 people and passengers can enjoy the scenic view of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Lamjung ranges from the balloon.

25th March: Vacation.com launches redesigned member acquisition site

JoinVacation.com, a redesigned version of Vacation.com, was launched recently. The new version of the member acquisition site has an improved navigation and interactive features that assist in effectively showcasing the organization’s core member benefits. The main addition of the site is a membership benefits calculator on the home page that gives prospective members an estimate of the annual financial impact of a Vacation.com membership.

23rd March: ‘Chaite Dasain’ being celebrated today

‘Chaite Dasain’, an imperative festival of the Nepalese people, is being celebrated today, March 23, 2010. Legend has it that the most important and grand festival of the Nepalese people, Bijaya Dasami, used to be celebrated on this day. Because the people had an upset stomach due to rejoicing and festivities as they feasted on spicy food during the warm month of Chaitra, the festival is now celebrated exactly six months later. Nonetheless, we can still witness the same religious fervor and celebrations as devotees throng to temples and shrines across the country to offer prayers to Goddess Durga.

22nd March: Expedia awards VisitDenmark and Wonderful Copenhagen

Expedia awarded the ‘Best City Campaign Scandinavia 2009’ to VisitDenmark and Wonderful Copenhagen amidst a ceremony held in ITB Berlin. The 2009 campaign was a co-operation between VisitDenmark, Wonderful Copenhagen, Scandinavian Airlines as well as a number of hotels in Copenhagen and was part of a multi-country homepage spotlight campaign on Expedia’s website.

21st March: The British School students take part in a Leadership Development Program

The Borderlands PDP organized a Leadership Development Program for Grade 9 students of the British School at the Borderlands Eco Adventure Resort from March 15-19, 2010. A total of 20 students and ...more

19th March: AirAsia to increase the number of flights to Taiwan

Effective April 15, 2010, AirAsia will add two more flights on the Kuala Lumpur- Taipei route increasing its frequency to nine flights per week. A low cost carrier, the airlines has seen an increasing demand from travelers seeking flights to and from Taipei. The airline has also introduced direct daily flights to Taipei from Kota Kinabalu (East Malaysia) and Bangkok.

18th March: Nepal participates in MATTA Fair

Nepal Tourism Board, in co-ordination with Nepal Airlines Corporation and Nepalese private tourism companies, participated in the MATTA Fair from March 12-14, 2010. Organized in Kuala Lumpur by Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents, the fair was supported by Tourism Malaysia. Nepal stall was beautifully decorated highlighting the diverse nature, culture and adventure tourism attractions of Nepal. A good response from Malaysian visitors and tour operators was received during the fair in which Nepal Tourism Year 2011was also highlighted.

17th March: Dhulikhel Festival 2010 in the offing

With Nepal Tourism Year 2011 just around the corner, various festivals are being organized to attract more tourists to Nepal. The Dhulikhel Festival 2010 is scheduled to be held in Dhulikhel, Kavre from March 18-24, 2010. The annual festival, organized by FNCCI and Dhulikhel Chamber of Commerce, includes cultural programs and food festival and will also feature around 100 stalls that will exhibit local products and handicrafts. Twenty seven hotels, restaurants and resorts will be taking part in the festival.

16th March: Destination Manang 2010 to be held

Manang 2010 is all set to be formally inaugurated on April 15, 2010. The main objective of the campaign is to disseminate information about Manang district and to promote it as a special travel destination for both national and international clients. Some of the highlights of the campaign are: Tilicho Lake Festival, Tho (Deer Festival), Phu FAM trip etc.
In addition to promoting the Himalayan district, the campaign is also expected to assist in protecting the timeless culture and tradition of the locals. The festival is organized by Tourism Entrepreneurs’ Association of Manang.

15th March: Ultimate Descents Nepal organizes Karnali rafting trip

Ultimate Descents Nepal, a major component of the Borderlands Group, successfully organized a rafting trip in the Karnali River from March 5-14, 2010. There were a total of 7 pax in the trip.
Karnali is Nepal’s mightiest and pristine river that descends through the Himalayas in a series of magnificent gorges. Exceptionally big volume rafting through the tropical jungles inhabited by nomads traditionally known as ‘Rautes’, deserted beaches and small villages are the main highlights of this trip.

12th March: MITT to be held from March 17-20, 2010

The 17th edition of MITT (Moscow International Travel and Tourism Exhibition) will be held from March 17-20, 2010 at Moscow Expocenter. MITT is the number one travel exhibition in Russia and welcomes both trade and consumer visitors with specific ‘trade only’ days. Organized by ITE Group plc, it is the key meeting place for the travel industry.

11th March: Ultimate Descents Nepal successfully participates in CBI Expro

Ultimate Descents Nepal (UDN), a major component of the Borderlands Group, was among a handful of organizations that was selected to participate in CBI Export Coaching Program held from March 2-7, 2010 at Rotterdam, The Netherlands. UDN successfully participated in the EXPRO training (CBI-Training Expro 87- Tourism) that is an integrated part of CBI’s Export Coaching Programs.
The Expro 87 aimed at familiarizing the participants with the various EU tourism markets and with export marketing, management and promotion techniques relevant to these markets.

10th March: Borderlands Group in ITB Berlin 2010

The Managing Director of Borderlands Group, Mr. Megh Ale, is representing the entire Group in ITB Berlin 2010 that started from March 10-14, 2010 in Germany. Details about the Group’s products and services can be obtained at the CBI Stand, Hall 4.1.
ITB Berlin 2010, the perfect place to learn about new trends, concepts and cooperation possibilities and to deepen existing business relations, is the world’s leading global tourism trade fair. The fair is an excellent opportunity to meet business partners and to do business.

7th March: Team Building Program organized for the Embassy of Denmark

The Borderlands PDP organized a Team Building Program for the staff of Embassy of Denmark on March 4, 2010. Organized at the Fort Resort in Nagarkot, the day-long program saw active participation from 23 participants including the Danish Ambassador, H.E. Mr. Finn Thilsted...more

5th March: Borderlands PDP organizes Team Building Program for Hotel de l’ Annapurna

A Team Building program was organized for Hotel de l’ Annapurna on March 2, 2010 at Gokarna Forest Resort ...more

5th March: February sees an increase in the number of tourist arrivals

In a release issued by the Immigration Office, Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), tourist arrivals, by air only, in the month of February 2010 increased by 33 % as compared to the same period last year. A positive growth of 12.1 % was seen in the arrivals from the entire South Asian region including India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, China, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore and South Korea. Thailand, on the other hand, witnessed a negative growth.
The European market including UK, France, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands showed an overall growth of 20.6% during the month whereas arrivals from Norway, Spain, Russia and Switzerland have decreased. United States of America, Canada, Australia and New Zealand also registered a positive growth.

1st March: Holi celebrated at Borderlands

Nepal River Conservation Trust (NRCT) successfully organized a River Festival at Bhotekoshi River from February 27-28, 2010. ‘River Conservation and Holi celebration with Whitewater Rafting’...more

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