PURE AS PARADISE

 In 2024, the Annapurna region set a new tourism record, attracting 244,045 visitors, according to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). This marks a significant recovery, surpassing the previous high of 191,558 in 2023 and reflecting a strong rebound from the pandemic. Of the total, 132,094 were from South Asia, and 111,951 were from other regions. The Annapurna Circuit Trek, including famous spots like Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Peak, and Thorong La Pass, continues to draw adventure seekers with its stunning landscapes, biodiversity, and cultural heritage. Global recognition also boosts the region’s appeal, with Lonely Planet naming it one of the top destinations and CNN featuring it in their 2023 list of must-visit sites.

 Nepal's tourism capital, Pokhara, is hosting its inaugural International Balloon Festival from December 24, 2024, to January 2, 2025.  The nine-day event, held in the scenic Pame region, features participants from 30 countries and over 20 international pilots.  With daily hot air balloon flights offering stunning views of the Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri ranges, the festival aims to boost tourism. It spans 3 kilometers, offering around 500 commercial flights and 300 non-commercial flights.  Organizers expect to host 3,000 passengers and estimate the event will cost Rs 68.3 million, helping to revitalize Pokhara’s tourism post-pandemic.

The vibrant and exciting second edition of the  Nepal-China Friendly Dragon Boat Race Festival  has officially begun at the picturesque Fewa Lake in Pokhara. The festival is set to strengthen the cultural and grassroots ties between Nepal and its neighbour China, while also boosting Nepal’s tourism sector. " With the collaborative efforts of local government bodies and the Chinese Embassy in Nepal, the Dragon Boat Festival promises to enhance Nepal’s international visibility while celebrating the power of sport and culture. " This year’s event, which will run through Monday, has attracted a diverse group of participants from Nepal, China, and Singapore. A total of 20 teams are competing, with 129 players from Chengdu, China, having flown in on a chartered flight on December 26 to join the festivities. The festival is a collaborative effort between the  Gandaki Provincial Government ,  Pokhara Metropolitan City , the  Chinese Embassy in Nepal , and the  Nepa...

 In the month of Kartik, the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA) attracted 33,310 foreign tourists, with 11,678 from South Asia and 21,632 from other regions, according to data from the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). Since Shrawan, 83,031 foreign tourists have visited, up from 67,442 during the same period last year. ACAP expects over 250,000 foreign visitors in the current fiscal year, compared to 222,180 in the last. The number of tourists increased notably in Ashwin, with 30,732 foreign visitors, including 11,985 from South Asia. ACAP has observed more foreign tourists exploring the Annapurna Circuit, especially during the peak tourist season. The region, spanning 7,600 square kilometers, is a major trekking destination, known for its natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and cultural richness. Popular trekking routes include Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal, Thorong La Pass, and Muktinath, attracting both domestic and international visitors. The area’s infrastructure, ...

  Welcome to Nepal, a land of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. While Kathmandu is often the first stop for many international visitors, Pokhara is the true gem that offers an immersive experience in Nepal’s natural beauty and local life. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a culture enthusiast, Pokhara has something for everyone. Here’s your guide to experiencing this enchanting city like a local. Why Pokhara? Nestled in the shadow of the Annapurna mountain range, Pokhara is renowned for its stunning lakes, majestic peaks, and vibrant culture. Often referred to as the tourism capital of Nepal, it serves as a gateway for trekkers and adventurers while offering serene escapes for those looking to unwind. Best Time to Visit? The best time to visit Pokhara is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months when the weather is pleasant and the views are crystal clear. During these seasons, you can also partake in various local...

  Nepal, a country renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and welcoming hospitality, offers an array of adventures that beckon travelers from around the globe. Whether you’re trekking the majestic Himalayas, exploring ancient temples, or immersing yourself in vibrant local traditions, having a professional guide by your side can enhance your experience significantly. Why Choose a Professional Guide? 1. Local Expertise Professional guides possess intimate knowledge of the terrain, weather conditions, and cultural nuances. They can navigate you through the best trekking routes, ensuring you don’t miss hidden gems along the way. Their insights into local traditions and history will enrich your journey, providing context to the stunning landscapes you encounter. 2. Safety First Nepal’s mountainous terrain can be challenging. Professional guides are trained to assess risks, manage emergencies, and ensure your safety throughout your trek. They know the safest routes...

  When it comes to exploring the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Nepal, there’s no better way to ensure a memorable experience than by trekking with professional guides. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time trekker, having an expert by your side can make all the difference. Here’s why you should consider embarking on your next adventure with professional guides. 1. Expertise and Experience Professional guides bring a wealth of knowledge to your trekking experience. They know the terrain, weather patterns, and hidden gems of each trail, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty around you. Their experience helps you navigate any challenges that may arise, ensuring your safety and enjoyment throughout the journey. 2. Cultural Insights One of the unique aspects of trekking in Nepal is the opportunity to engage with local cultures. Professional guides often belong to the communities you’ll be visiting and can provide authentic insights into lo...

  A "Pure As Paradise" blog serves as a platform for sharing experiences, tips, and information related to hiking and trekking activities. It can include: Guides and Resources: Information about popular hiking and trekking routes, gear recommendations, and safety tips. Environmental Awareness: Articles emphasizing sustainable practices to preserve Nepal’s natural beauty. Community Building: Fostering a community where trekkers can share their experiences, seek advice, and inspire one another. History The trekking culture in Nepal has evolved significantly over the decades: Early Exploration: In the 1950s, the first trekkers, primarily mountaineers and explorers, began to venture into the Himalayas. The introduction of trekking routes began with the ascent of Mount Everest in 1953 by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay. Government Recognition: In the 1970s, the Nepalese government recognized the potential of trekking as a tourist activity. They opened up various trekk...

POKHARA – The Annapurna Conservation Area, celebrated for its spectacular trekking routes, has experienced a remarkable surge in tourist arrivals over the past three months. A total of 34,651 foreign visitors have entered the region, according to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). In September alone, 23,088 tourists visited, marking a dramatic increase from 5,249 in July and 6,314 in August. Dr. Rabin Kadaria, head of ACAP, emphasized that September and October are anticipated to be peak months for tourism this year. In September, the region welcomed 11,682 tourists from South Asian countries, while 11,406 arrived from other global destinations. This stands in stark contrast to August, when only 3,383 visitors came from the SAARC region and 2,931 from other countries. July figures were similarly low, with 3,350 tourists from South Asia and 1,893 from elsewhere. The Annapurna Conservation Area is home to several popular destinations, including Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Him...

Nepal, home to the majestic Bengal tiger , offers some of the most thrilling wildlife experiences in South Asia. The country’s diverse national parks provide wildlife enthusiasts with ample opportunities to witness these big cats in their natural habitats, alongside other iconic species like rhinos, elephants, and exotic birds. Here are the top 5 national parks in Nepal where you have the best chance to spot a Bengal tiger: 1. Chitwan National Park Located in the lowlands of southern Nepal, Chitwan National Park is Nepal’s most famous wildlife destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site . It offers the highest density of Bengal tigers in the country. Along with tiger sightings, visitors can spot one-horned rhinoceroses , elephants , and a wide range of bird species. Best Time to Visit : October to March 2. Bardia National Park Known for its remoteness and tranquility, Bardia National Park in western Nepal is a prime spot for tiger sightings. The park boasts a growing population of ...

 On the occasion of World Tourism Day, the Lumbini Province government has introduced an ambitious plan to make the province self-reliant by harnessing the power of tourism. Chief Minister Chet Narayan Acharya shared his message of best wishes, emphasizing the province’s commitment to developing tourism as a means of boosting economic growth and improving the living standards of its citizens. 'Travel Lumbini' Concept for Self-Reliance At the heart of the province's strategy is the 'Travel Lumbini' concept, aimed at establishing Lumbini as a hub for income generation and sustainable development through tourism. Chief Minister Acharya highlighted that tourism is being positioned as a key pillar for economic self-reliance, with efforts focusing on creating job opportunities and uplifting the local population. Lumbini Tourism Circuit: Connecting 12 Districts The government is actively working on the development of the Lumbini Tourism Circuit , which aims to connect im...

 On the occasion of World Tourism Day , the government of Nepal honoured record-holding mountaineer Phunjo Jhangmu Lama for her incredible achievements in promoting adventure tourism on a global scale. At an event in Kathmandu, Acting Prime Minister Prakash Man Singh felicitated Phunjo for her extraordinary feat of becoming the fastest woman to scale Mt. Everest , reaching the summit in just 14 hours and 31 minutes during the last spring season. Phunjo Lama, hailing from Chhokangpaaro village in Tsum Valley, Gorkha , is a true trailblazer in the world of mountaineering. Not only did she set the record for the fastest female ascent of Everest, but she also completed the round trip from Base Camp to Everest Summit and back in a remarkable 24 hours and 26 minutes . Her descent alone, from the summit to base camp, took just 9 hours and 18 minutes . Honoured for Outstanding Contributions to Nepal's Tourism The honouring ceremony, held on World Tourism Day , saw the participation o...

World Tourism Day 2024 is a global event that highlights the transformative power of tourism in promoting cultural exchange , economic growth , and social development . Celebrated annually on September 27 , this day serves as a reminder of how tourism fosters global peace and sustainability. The theme for World Tourism Day 2024 is "Tourism and Peace." This year, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) emphasizes the role of tourism in enhancing global understanding , strengthening cross-cultural relationships , and supporting sustainable tourism practices that benefit both local economies and the environment. History of World Tourism Day World Tourism Day was first celebrated on September 27, 1980 , by the UNWTO to recognize tourism's ability to foster international connections. The date commemorates the adoption of the UNWTO statutes in 1975. Since 1997, a host country is chosen each year to spotlight different nations' contributions to global tour...

Gai Jatra, or the "Festival of Cows," is a vibrant and deeply cultural celebration held mainly in Nepal's Kathmandu Valley. This unique festival, usually observed in August or September, blends mourning with joy as families honor their deceased loved ones. The festival dates back to the 17th century when King Pratap Malla initiated it to console his grieving queen. To help her cope with the loss of their son, the king organized a parade where families who had lost someone in the past year led a cow—a sacred animal in Hinduism—through the streets. This tradition continues today, with participants often substituting a cow with a young boy dressed as one, symbolizing the journey of the soul to the afterlife. During Gai Jatra, the streets of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur burst into life with processions, music, and satirical performances. The festival's unique blend of mourning and humor allows people to reflect on life and death while also addressing social and politic...

Nepal, a land nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, is not just a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventurers, but also a treasure trove of cultural heritage. The culture of Nepal is a vibrant tapestry woven from centuries of diverse ethnic, tribal, and social traditions. This multi-dimensional heritage finds expression in the nation's music and dance, art and craft, folklore and literature, languages and philosophy, festivals and celebrations, and even in its culinary traditions. Dance and Music: A Reflection of Nepal's Ancient Soul Dance and music are integral to the cultural fabric of Nepal, reflecting the country’s ancient traditions. Legends trace the origins of dance in the Indian subcontinent to the Himalayas, where Lord Shiva is said to have performed the cosmic dance, Tandava. The dances of Nepal vary in style and costume across different regions and ethnicities, but they all share a common thread of storytelling. For instance, the Dishka, a traditional dance performed...

Nag Panchami is a revered Hindu festival celebrated across Nepal, dedicated to the worship of serpents, or Nagas. Observed on the fifth day of the bright half of the lunar month of Shrawan (July/August), this festival holds deep cultural and religious significance, reflecting Nepal’s rich heritage. The festival’s origins are rooted in ancient legends, particularly the story of the Kathmandu Valley, once a vast lake inhabited by Nagas. According to myth, the lake was drained by the Bodhisattva Manjushree, and in return for their disturbed habitat, the Nagas were appeased by an annual ritual, which evolved into Nag Panchami. This tale underscores the Nagas' role as guardians of water bodies and agricultural prosperity. Nag Panchami is crucial for both religious devotion and ecological awareness. In Hinduism, serpents symbolize fertility, protection, and prosperity. Worshiping them is believed to ensure good harvests, timely rains, and protection from snakebites, making the festival p...

In a groundbreaking initiative, Nepal will deploy heavy-lifter drones to transport garbage from Ama Dablam (6,812 meters) and later from Everest. This marks the first commercial use of drones in Nepal’s high-altitude zones. The drones, manufactured by Da Jiang Innovations (DJI) of China, will take over tasks traditionally done by Sherpas, aiming to reduce casualties on Everest. A tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality, and Airlift Technology Pvt Ltd to implement this advanced drone technology for efficient garbage management in the Khumbu region. In April, DJI successfully tested its FlyCart 30 drone on Everest, demonstrating its capability to airlift 234 kg per hour between Camp I and Base Camp—a task that typically requires 14 porters working for six hours. Although there are concerns about potential job loss for Sherpas, officials highlight the drones' role in mitigating risks ...