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Party Asks Prachanda Not to Sign Any Treaty During India Visit

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Kathmandu, Sptember 12 The central secretariat of the CPN-Maoists today directed Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda' not to sign any treaty during his upcoming India visit. According to Maoist leader Mohan Baidya 'Kiran' the party also asked CP Gajurel to continue as foreign affairs chief and Mohan Baidya to head the organization department. The People's Liberation Army will be headed by Nand Kishore Pun' Pasang' while Post Bahadur Bogati will head the Parliamentary Affairs section of the party. The meeting also decided to hold the meeting of the central secretariat after PM Prachanda returns from India visit.

 

President Yadav congratulates PM Dahal "CLUB OF HIMALAYA TREKKING & TRAVEL NEPAL HIMLAYA" KATHMANDU, Aug 18 - President Dr Ram Baran Yadav congratulated Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal after swearing in the newly elected prime minister for the formation of a new government as per the understanding among the political parties for taking the country towards prosperity, institutional development of democratic republic and lasting peace in the country. President Yadav also hoped that the soon-to-be formed cabinet would play a role of facilitator in drafting a new democratic constitution, which would draw the fate of Nepali people, within next two years through the Constituent Assembly (CA). Releasing a press statement today, President Yadav also extended best wishes to the government in the making for its success for leading the peace process towards a logical end with support from all sides. Likewise, President Yadav also thanked outgoing Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala and the members of his cabinet for their contribution.

 

Tibet reopens to foreign tourists

Jun 24, 2008

BEIJING - Tibet will be reopened to foreign tourists from Wednesday, China's official Xinhua news agency said, after the region was shut off to foreign visitors following riots there in March.

Xinhua cited Tanor, an official with the region's tourism administration, as saying the passing of the Olympic torch relay through Lhasa over the weekend proved that the region was stable enough to let foreign tourists back in.

"Tibet is safe. We welcome the domestic and foreign tourists," Xinhua quoted Tanor, who has only one name, as saying in a report on Tuesday.

The Chinese government closed Tibet to tourists following riots that erupted in Lhasa on March 14 and that spread to Tibetan areas in neighbouring provinces.

The region was reopened to domestic tourists on April 23 and to tourists from Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan on May 1, Xinhua said.

 

Gyanendra's address

Dear Nepalese brothers and sisters,

This country which came into being 240 years back as a garden of four castes and thirty-six sub castes as imagined and established by our ancestor His Majesty, the Great King Prithivi Narayan Shah, is going through a period of very serious and sensitive upheaval. It is well known that the Nepalese Monarchy which has always been activised for the people's prosperity and progress has always been working together and cooperating with the happiness and woes of Nepalese people. Burning examples of that are unification, preservation of nationalism, democratization, and modernization through the united efforts of the king and national integrity as equivalent to the value of our lives. Our committed energized feelings towards these values and standards have remained constant from the past and are equally strong in the present and will remain so in the future.
I would like to inform everybody concerned that when seven years back because of an unnatural, unexpected and tragic incident while shouldering the responsibility of Head of the state according to the national heritage and ages of old monarchical traditions, I had no other interests except considerations for the sovereignty, independence, national pride, territorial integrity, peace and institutional development of democratic, and overall progress of all the citizens. In the then Hindu kingdom of Nepal, the birth place of Buddha the efforts started, with the best of intention trying to ensure the peace and prosperity in the country were not successful overtime, which I have already accepted earlier. The chain of events and ensuring results are obvious to everybody like an open book.
I would like to express, with God as my witness, certain things which I couldn't express earlier because of my official responsibilities but which was troubling my inner heart all the time, through you dear journalist friends to my Nepalese brothers and sisters and the international community. May be we should call it a destiny that when I was innocent child, I had neither any wish nor desire nor any possibility of having a distinct role except the compulsion to have to quietly accept the crown. Likewise, for the second time when an unimaginable and horrifying event took place on the night of Jestha 19th, 2058, I could not express through word my internal pain when I was compelled and tied up by the chains of tradition and duty without being even able to shed tears over the mortal remains of those respected and beloved family members and lighten the burden of pain at the gruesome destruction of my close relatives. Even at that time some people blamed and accused me and my family with great indiscretion and cruelty but we had no alternative but to tolerate that too, nor were there people who spoke on our behalf. Being prejudiced against me and my family members the efforts which were continuously started through different means by taking advantage of those circumstances and events, have been very painful to us and are still so. Other members of Royal family who were wounded and but survived the incident in the Royal Palace are still alive. They are also witness to it. The bullet fragments, which couldn't not be taken out for technical reason are still in the body of my wife who was also wounded and survived. The detailed facts had also come out from the medical doctors involved in their treatment. The high level Royal Investigation Commission had already made public the detailed report about the incident. When all Nepalese people and the Royal Family were overwhelmed with grief, at that time, to level accusations and blame in this way seems to be a strategy to damage the goodwill of the Nepalese people towards the institution of Monarchy and to spread ill will, which was also not compatible with human suffering.
Likewise, I have also heard false rumors about allegations that I have property abroad. All my property is in Nepal. I have no movable or immovable property in foreign lands. The property which had been bequeathed to me from my ancestors, according to Nepalese laws is also not in my name and I have institutionalized it maintaining that property and have only conserved it. During the last seven years neither have I added to any property nor have I taken any actions by which the traditional property of any members of the Royal family. I believe that I would also have rights to maintain private property according to the prevalent laws of Nepal.
Respecting Constitutional Assembly elections and the decision taken by the constituent assembly meeting on Jestha 15th, I am cooperating in every way towards the successful implementation of that decision. I have not also thought of leaving the country. I would like to leave in my own Motherland and contribute in whatever way possible for greater good of the country and peace in this land. I believe that there will be support from all sectors.
I pledge to be completely dedicated to the independence and territorial integrity of the nation of Nepal which was formed and has remained independent and sovereign because of the blood, sweet and sacrifice of the great ancestors of us Nepalese, wherever and whatever circumstances I may be in. I love the independence of this nation. My feelings and sentiments are that of sanctity, individuality and original values of this independent nation should always be preserved. My heartfelt good wishes are for the overall welfare of the self respecting common Nepalese people.
Today, on this date, I have handed over the Crown and Scepter used by the Kings of Shah dynasty and which has remained as heirloom in this dynasty to the Government of Nepal for safekeeping and protection for ages to come.
Finally, on behalf of my family members and myself, I would like to express my sorrow, if anybody has been inadvertently hurt by actions of my own or of the members of my family while I was working as Head of State for the welfare of Nepal and the Nepalese. I would like to express gratitude to all citizens, constitutional organs, judicial sector, security organizations, civil servants, teachers, professors, students, farmers, laborers, industrialists, businessmen, intellectual youths, religious organizations, journalists, civil society, personnel working in the Royal palace service and all others from different walks of life and all the other associated Nepalese inside and outside Nepal who extended their cooperation to me. I would also like to thank the friendly neighboring countries who have always wished well for Nepal, the international community and representative of diplomatic corps. I would also like to thank the members of the Committees for Security and management recently deputed by the Government of Nepal. I would like to thank the government of Nepal for all the help and cooperation extended to me. I also hope that like now, I would keep on getting the same level of necessary cooperation from the Government of Nepal in the future too.
May Lord Pashupatinath bless us all.
Jaya Nepal

 

Rise and fall of the Shah Dynasty

KATHMANDU, May 29 - The Shah Dynasty that unified and ruled Nepal for the last 240 years, often through bloodshed, came to a peaceful end on MAY 28, 2008. If the rise of the Shahs was spectacular, so was their downfall. In modern history, hardly any monarchy has been abolished either through the ballot or so peacefully.

The story of the Shah Dynasty, stretching over a period of over 450 years, is a saga of both triumph and tragedy.

After Drabya Shah, a prince of the royal house of the adjoining principality of Lamjung and progenitor of the Shah Dynasty, wrested Gorkha from local tribal chiefs in 1559, the Shahs remained confined to this impoverished, hilly principality for the next 183 years.

But that changed once and for all after an audacious prince, Prithvi Narayan Shah, ascended to the throne of Gorkha in 1742 at the age of 20.

Two years later, he had already conquered Nuwakot, ensuring Gorkha's participation in the profitable trade between Kathmandu and Tibet. A shrewd king, he was strategic in his thinking, meticulous in his planning and ruthless in obtaining his military objectives. His eyes were fixed on Kathmandu Valley from the very beginning, but he made a strategic detour: He decided to first cut Kathmandu's trade lifeline with both Tibet and India. He did so by conquering the kingdom of Makawanpur and seizing the Kuti and Kerung passes to Tibet.

In March 1767, Prithvi Narayan Shah conquered Kirtipur in his third attempt, providing the Gorkhalis their first strategic foothold in Kathmandu Valley. Already demoralized by the towering presence of Prithvi Narayan in Kirtipur and economically weakened by his blockade, Kathmandu Valley fell to the Gorkhalis in 1768 without offering much resistance. Patan and Bhadgaon, the other two Malla kingdoms of the Valley, fell in line within a year. 

By the time he died in 1775, Nepal's expansion eastward was complete. The whole of the eastern tarai upto Jhapa and the entire eastern hills up to  theTista river were now under the Gorkha Empire in-the-making.

Prithvi Narayan Shah died at a relatively young age of 53 without completing his unification project-- but more importantly, without providing a people of vast cultural diversity within the newly acquired frontiers, a sense of belongingness to this new kingdom.

But he did something fundamentally different and more important than past kings of the Indian subcontinent: He refused to share his conquest with his brothers even though they had worked alongside him, and equally hard. Instead, he devised the principle of allegiance to the Dhungo, which literally means stone. But metaphorically it represented the state. “The concept of Dhungo, implied that the Gorkhali state was a permanent entity that transcended the person of the ruler. In other words, allegiance to the state superseded personal loyalty to the ruler,” writes historian Mahesh Chandra Regmi.

The Dhungo concept implanted in people the idea of the permanency of the state. This was perhaps so instrumental an idea that it kept the Nepali state from unraveling even during difficult times and helped it emerge into a modern state. In that sense, too, Prithvi Narayan was a true founder of modern Nepal.

End of the golden age

As it often happens with a great revolution after the death of its progenitor, with Prithvi Narayan Shah gone, Nepal lost direction, the principal actors lost their character, and the newly unified but still unconsolidated state fell into an era of uncertainty and chaos.

For the next 70 years, before Jung Bahadur Kunwar finally seized power through a bloody coup, Nepal was ruled by kings and regents who were either insane, inept, profligate or promiscuous-- or all four. The kings were so inept or underage that regent queens ruled for most of those 70 years.

Luckily, the unification project continued. Mainly three persons--Queen Rajendra Laxmi, regent Bahadur Shah and Bhimsen Thapa-- at different times gave continuity to the unfinished business of territorial expansion. Before the project ended rather disastrously in 1816 with the Sugauli Treaty with the East India Company, Nepal was well set to become a Himalayan Empire, stretching from Kashmir in the west to Tista in the east. 

British historian John Pemble writes, “In the space of half a century, the Gurkhas had unified, for the first time in history, a belt of territory which was the most beautiful, the most inaccessible and traditionally the most fragmented in Asia. There seems no

reason to suppose that had the war with the British not intervened, this empire would not have proved viable.”

But even after ceding a huge swath of territory to the British in India following defeat in the 1814-16 war, Nepal was left with an area of 136,000 square kilometers. It had grown over 500 times since the tiny Gorkha kingdom, less

than 250 square kilometers in size, started the expansion drive just 70 years earlier.

These defeats had more internal reasons than external. Rivalry and betrayal in the palace and among the Gorkha nobility played a key role in the launching of unplanned-- and perhaps unnecessary-- wars with China and British East India. “The haste with which the decision [to annex the vassal state of Garhwal and its territories further toward the west] was taken again raises the suspicion that Rana Bahadur Shah, grandson of Prithivi Narayan, may have put the nation in a war footing to preempt his domestic rivals.”

Forget the Gorkha nobility, rivalry started right within the Shah family right after the death of Prithvi Narayan Shah. Pratap Singh Shah, son of Prithibi Naryan, put his warrior uncle Bahadur Shah in jail, before forcing him into exile in Betia, India. He was later on recalled by his sister-in-law, Rajendra Laxmi, following Pratap Singh's death. Rivalry between these two then ensued and they alternately put each other in prison. Bahadur Shah even killed Rajendra Laxmi's minister Sarbajit Rana, accusing him of an illicit affair with the queen, and also imprisoned her in the palace. Rana Bahadur Shah, after coming of age and wresting sovereignty from his uncle, finally killed Bahadur Shah. 

Rana Bahadur was a mad king by any measure. He married four women in his lifetime, including a Brahmin widow, Kantivati--  an act socially not sanctified at the time. According to historian Babu Ram Acharya, Rana Bahadur first saw this young widow of the Mishra caste at Pashupatinath and abducted her to his palace. She was made his unwilling concubine for long before finally agreeing to marry him, but under the condition that their ‘illegitimate' son, Girwanyuddha, would be made king. Rana Bahadur already had sons by his second wife, Subarnaprabha. But he was so much in love and lust with Kantavati that he abdicated in favor of the one-and-half-year old Girwanyuddha. His insanity only grew when his beloved concubine died of smallpox (some historians claim it was tuberculosis). He killed and tormented those who were involved in her treatment, and uprooted and disfigured idols in temples where prayers had been offered for her recovery.

By Rana Bahadur Shah's time, and thereafter, the palace also abandoned the strict austerity measures that Prithvi Narayan Shah had so religiously observed. It became too profligate and engaged itself-- rather extravagantly-- in merrymaking. For instance, according to historian Regmi, Prithvi Narayan Shah received his pocket money in quarter-rupees and half-rupees, with only one recorded payment of a full rupee. He also frowned upon foreign dancers and musicians because, among other things, they were a drain on wealth. However, in 1798, Rana Bahadur recruited an Indian musician, Jivan Shah Kalwar, at a monthly salary of Rs 700! Compare this with the monthly salary of the commander of an army company at the time-- a meager Rs 30 -- and its gives a measure of the growing profligacy in the palace. 

The rivalry between courtiers of the Shah and Thapa, Pandey and Bashnyat clans only grew in the subsequent years. Rana Bahadur Shah himself was forced to flee the country, but came back later on and wrested power from his second wife and killed dozens of her loyal courtiers, before he was himself killed, possibly in a family feud.

It was his teenager fourth wife, Lalitatripurasundari, who provided some stability to this fledging kingdom. She ruled for the next 26 years as queen regent to the two subsequent kings. But even this stability came at a price: Her minister, Bhimsen Thapa, killed 90 people, including her late husband's other wives and concubines, to consolidate her power.

There are serious questions as to the sanity of the next two kings - Girwanyuddha's son, Rajendra Bikram Shah and his grandson, Surendra Bikram Shah. Rajendra Bikram was a very week and ineffectual ruler and he declared his younger wife, Rajyalaxmi, his own regent in 1843. By this time, multiple wives, sex scandals, betrayals, rivalry and killings had become the norm at the palace.

The killing of Rajyalaxmi's confidante Gagan Thapa --some historians say he was her lover, precipitated perhaps the bloodiest massacre in Nepal's history--the Kot Parwa, or massacre at the armory, in 1846. This gave rise to another Chherti clan at the palace: The Kunwars. About 55 court officials were killed in the Kot Parwa, mostly men from the Kunwars' rival clans--Thapas, Pandeys and Bashnyats. Historians say the next day over 6,000 members of these clans fled Kathmandu in fear for their lives. Jung Bahadur Kunwar, who proclaimed himself Ranaji later on, rose to power after the Kot Parwa and his descendants were to rule Nepal for the next 104 years, keeping the Shahs confined to the palace as nominal kings. 

Shah re-emergence and end

After the end of World War II, the independence movements in the British colonies reached a fever pitch. Inspired by Gandhi, India finally overthrew its colonial yoke and became an independent nation. Young Nepalis, who studied and lived in India, participated in this movement and in the process became fired up for the liberation of their own country from the clutches of the Ranas. In the meantime, there were already internal efforts underway, especially those led by the Praja Parishad, to overthrow the Ranas. B P Koirala, Subarna Shumsher and other energetic youths started an armed insurgency.

King Tribhuvan, who had suffered humiliation at the hands of the Ranas for years, quietly slipped to the nearby Indian embassy and then made it to Delhi. Some historians suggest that Tribhuvan even urged Jahawar Lal Nehru,

then Indian prime minister, to annex Nepal to India, a suggestion rejected by Nehru.

Rana oligarchy was put to an end through a tripartite agreement reached in Delhi in 1951. Tribhuvan, along with the Nepali Congress leaders came back to Nepal. This was supposed to usher in a democratic era but Tribhuban defaulted on his promise and betrayed the people.

The major political agenda, after the overthrow of the Rana regime, was to write a new constitution through a Constituent Assembly elected by the newly sovereign people. But King Tribhuvan, who was reinstated in power by the people, deferred the election on one or another pretext till his death in 1955. His ambitious son, King Mahendra, never agreed to the idea of a constituent assembly election and forced the parties to settle for parliamentary elections instead. King Mahendra, in 1960, sacked the first popularly elected prime minister of Nepal, B P Koirala, and imposed a partyless Panchayat System that ushered in the absolute rule of the kings for the next 30 years.

King Mahendra, under his Panchayat project, tried to construct a Nepali nationalism based on the single edifice of one nation, one language, one religion, one culture and even one national dress. History textbooks only talked about the glory of the Shah Dynasty, hiding the dark side. Somehow that didn't go down well with the people. “The jingoism of the Panchayat era rang false,” writes Manjushree Thapa, a novelist.

Students rose up against the Panchayat system in 1979, forcing King Birendra to announce a referendum. But it was in 1990 that the people finally forced a major concession from the monarchy through a popular Janaandolan or People's Movement. King Birendra promptly accepted multiparty system.

June 1, 2001 was probably the turning point in the monarchy's demise. King Birendra, an affable man, and his entire family were killed in a royal massacre. People were in a state of shock after they heard news of the massacre but when they came to terms with the reality they had lost faith in the monarchy, whose reins now fell into the hands of a new king, Gyanendra.

It's hard to pin down Gyanendra's personality. But above all, he proved to be an arrogant, self-righteous and ambitious monarch. In his lust for power-reminiscent of his father- he was blind as a bat to his own best interests. Before seizing power on February 1, 2005, he miscalculated three things: First, he thought the Maoists and mainstream parties would never join hands and form a collective front against him. Second, given a choice between the Maoists (read terrorists) and the monarchy, the international community would eventually chose monarchy. Third, and most importantly, he underestimated the consciousness of the Nepali people, which had grown by leaps and bounds in the post-1990 open society and during the decade-long Maoist insurgency. 

Finally, in April 2006 the people turned the tables on the monarchy. Janaandolan II vanquished the monarchy and culminated in the declaration of a republic. Maybe a republican order would have come sooner or later, but Gyanendra is solely

responsible for bringing it to this country on MAY 28, 2008, ending the 450-year-old reign of the Shah Dynasty.

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KATHMANDU, May 29 - Nepal has become a Federal Democratic Republic from today after the Constituent Assembly overwhelmingly voted for abolition of the country's 240-year-old monarchy.

“I declare that the proposal tabled by the government for implementation of a republic has been passed as 560 members out of 564 present today voted in favor of the proposal and 4 against,” announced meeting chairman Kul Bahadur Gurung after a division vote late Wednesday night.

Only royalist Rastriya Prajatantra Party-Nepal members voted against the proposal.

Home Minister Krishna Prasad Sitaula tabled the proposal for a republic at Wednesday's CA meeting. The proposal said, “Nepal has turned into an independent, indivisible, secular, inclusive, federal democratic republic with sovereignty and state authority vested in the people.”

The proposal further said that the former king and royal family members shall no longer enjoy any rights and privileges other than those of common Nepali citizens. 

The CA also instructed the government to make sure that Gyanendra Shah and his family leave Narayanhity Royal Palace within the next 15 days. The meeting instructed the government to make necessary arrangements for the safety of all property inside the palace.

The government shall make all necessary arrangements for utilizing all the heritage inside the palace in the national interest including for setting up a historical museum.

The proposal states that all constitutional provisions, laws, administrative rules and arrangements at variance with the proposal have been scrapped.

A second sitting of the CA passed a separate bill to amend the Interim Constitution and make new arrangements for a president as head of state. Through addition of part 4 (A) in the Interim Constitution, it says that the second meeting of the CA will provide for a president as head of state. The president will be supreme commander in chief of the army and will perform other duties as determined by the constitution.  The president will mobilize the army upon the cabinet's recommendation.

The president will remain in office until the CA promulgation of a new constitution. S/he will remain as patron of the constitution and will also abide by the constitution. The president can impose emergency rule upon recommendation of the cabinet. Two thirds of CA members can remove him/her from office through impeachment.

The amendment also provides for a vice-president.

The parties, after more than 10 hours of negotiations ultimately agreed to amend the constitution and provide for a constitutional president but the presidents' powers and duties are yet to be finalized.

The meeting was convened about ten hours later than the scheduled time.

The parties, however, could not finalize the names of 26 members to be nominated by the cabinet. “Another bill will be presented in the near future to bring in other provisions on election procedures and the powers and duties of the president,” Sitaula said.

The meeting also declared that Nepal will mark Jesth 15 (in the Nepali calendar) as Republic Day every year and extended tributes to the martyrs whose sacrifices have brought the country to the present stage.

Dream came true

Addressing the meeting before tabling the formal proposal for implementation of a republic, Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala said this was an epoch-making day in Nepal's history. He said his past remark—that a day comes once in an era — came true the moment Nepal entered a republican phase. “The dream of the Nepali people has come true today,” the 84-year-old Koirala said at the meeting.

Koirala said one of his biggest responsibilities was now over but another huge responsibility had come upon the shoulders of CA members, a responsibility towards the martyrs, orphans and widows who made their sacrifice for a stable, peaceful, democratic and prosperous Nepal.

“We have arrived at this stage only after removing several hurdles, so what we have achieved today is Nepal's greatest asset,” said Koirala. “So we should preserve and work together not only until a new constitution is framed but also until there is a complete transformation of the country into a fully democratic country.

 

 

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Himalayan News Service www.himalayatravelclub.com The three largest parties in the Constituent Assembly on Monday agreed to implement the republic through Wednesday's CA meeting despite their differences over the issue of head of state and amendment of the constitution. Nepali Congress, CPN (Maoist) and CPN-UML leaders agreed to implement the republic Wednesday and keep up negotiations to settle the remaining differences. The leaders formed a three-member panel comprising NC leader Bimalendra Nidhi, Maoist leader Khim Lal Devkota and UML leader Bhim Rawal to prepare a draft resolution to be presented at the first meeting of the CA to endorse a republic. The panel has been asked to prepare the draft and present it at a meeting of top leaders at 9 am on Wednesday after consultations with 13 parties in the CA, said Nidhi. The parties, however, could not agree on the issues of amending the constitution and appointment of a president. NC and UML rejected the Maoists' nine-point proposal for a new consensus, terming it inadequate and against  the fundamental principles of democracy. They strongly protested the Maoist proposal, especially the provision on the PM doubling as head of state as well as government. “Right from the moment we abolish monarchy, we need a head of state,” said an NC leader. NC has proposed amendment to 60 clauses of the Interim Constitution to make the constitution contextual in view of the country's entry to a republican system. Earlier in the morning, the Maoists had tabled a proposal rejecting the creation of the post of president and amendment of the constitution. They had claimed that the proposals were aimed at inviting political instability and getting the CA preoccupied in the  formation of the government and its ouster, instead of focusing on writing the constitution. NC presented a nine-point proposal against the Maoist proposal and the CPN-UML came up with a separate 13-point proposal for consensus building. Both the NC and UML stood for creation of the post of president as a titular head of state, a proposal the Maoists rejected outright. Nepali Congress has proposed that the cabinet prepare a proposal for implementation of the republic along with provisions for a president and vice-president to fill the vacant position of head of state right from the moment the monarchy is abolished formally. The NC and UML both proposed that the formation and ouster of governments be simplified in the present context. They also called for Maoist action toward fostering an environment free of fear through the ending of the paramilitary structure of Maoist sister wings and time-bound settlement of the Maoist army and weapons. “We have proposed to transform the YCL purely into a political organization, and NC and UML have agreed to this,” said Prachanda talking to reporters after his meeting with visiting US assistant under secretary. As the meeting was prolonged till late night, they did not take up the issue of choosing the 26 CA members to be nominated by the government. They have agreed to take a decision on the 26-nominees by Tuesday noon. The 26 members are to take oath on Tuesday afternoon along with other elected members. Despite the difference over key political issues, the Maoists have agreed to scrap the “seven-party monopoly” from the constitution, transform the Young Communist League members into political activists and create a peaceful environment in the villages. Maoists' 9-point proposal The Maoists had made a nine-point proposal which failed to address the major demands of the other political parties - provisioning a simple majority to form or remove the government, creating the position of president and sharing the major posts. The Maoists proposed that a republic must be implemented by the first meeting of the CA. They proposed a concrete Maoist commitment to transform the YCL into a political organization. They argued that changing the two-third majority provision for removal or formation of the government as existing in the interim constitution is meaningless as a two-third majority is required to take any major decision while drafting a new constitution. The Maoists proposed Nepali Congress President and Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala as head of a high-level mechanism which will operate both the government and parliament. The head of the mechanism will have constitutional and special powers. Koirala has been presented as the most respected statesman in the Maoist proposal. This rules out the other parties' demand for a president as head of state and a prime minister as head of the executive. The Maoist proposal says that until a new constitution is in place the prime minister will exercise the authority of head of state. It has also proposed that the PLA will immediately become part of the government and the integration process will take place subsequently. Power can be shared among the political parties on the basis of their comparative positions in the CA.   161 women make it to CA KATHMANDU, May 3 - All 25 political parties securing at least one seat in the Constituent Assembly (CA) election under the proportional representation (PR) system submitted their final lists to the Election Commission (EC) on Friday. Raju Man Singh Malla, joint-secretary at the EC confirmed that the Commission has received the lists of names for all 335 seats allotted under the PR system. "The EC will check the lists to see if the parties have met the legal requirements for inclusion and give three days from Sunday, if necessary, to make corrections," he added. Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala is in the PR list of the Nepali Congress (NC). The Maoists, which secured maximum 100 seats, have proposed its five central committee members -- Mohan Baidya 'Kiran', Lokendra Bista, Matrika Yadav, Dinanath Sharma and Narayan Prasad Sharma among others in the list. Surya Bahadur Sen Oli, former zonal administrator during the Panchayat regime and Indra Jit Rai, a military expert, are also included in the Maoist list. Similarly, the NC, which secured 73 seats, has included the names of party Central Working Committee members Baldev Sharma Majgainya, Pradip Giri, Purna Bahadur Khadka, Dr Minendra Rijal, Dr Prakash Saran Mahat, Laxman Ghimire, Jip Tshiring Lama, Mina Panday and Uma Adhikari. Dr Aarzoo Rana Deuba, wife of former prime minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and Ambika Basnet, chairperson of NC women's wing, have also been included in the list. Similarly, popular youth leader Gagan Thapa, business entrepreneur Diwakar Golchha and officials at the party central office Purushotam Basnet, Shobhakar Parajuli and Jivan Prem Shrestha have been nominated under PR by the party. Likewise, CPN-UML has submitted names for 70 seats, dividing them into different groups such as 21 Madhesis, 9 Dalits, 24 Janajatis, 2 from bac ward regions and 21 from others. However, the UML has not included its senior leaders including acting general secretary Amrit Kumar Bohara and party leader Shahana Pradhan in the list, as per a party decision. Party leader Surendra Panday, Shankar Pokharel, Yuva Raj Karki, Dr Mangal Siddhi Manandhar, NEFIN's Chairperson Pasang Sherpa, law practitioners--Sapana Pradhan Malla and Agni Prasad Kharel-- and businessman Binod Kumar Chaudhary are included in the list. Similarly, MPRF, with 22 seats secured, has allotted 50 percent seats for women. It has nominated former governor Dr Tilak Rawal including two businessmen. Likewise, Terai-Madhes Democratic Party has nominated all 11 members from Madhesi community including Kashi Devi Jha, widow of martyr Durga Nanda Jha who was murdered by the Panchayat regime. Rastriya Prajatantra Party's Lokendra Bahadur Chand, Prativa Rana, Rastriya Janashakti Party's co-chairperson Dr Prakash Chandra Lohani, Sadbhavana Party's Laxman Lal Karna, CPN-ML's CP Mainali, CPN-Unified's Pari Thapa will be the prominent members of the CA from their parties respectively. Similarly, the CPN-United has recommended the name of Sunil Babu Panta, a gay rights activist, to be appointed as first member of the CA representing the sexual minority. US to drop Maoists from terrorist list: Powell Himalayan Travellers Club Tours & Travels KATHMANDU, May 3 - In a clear indication that the US might be moving toward better ties with the Maoists, who are in its terrorist list, US ambassador to Nepal, Nancy Powell, met with Maoist Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda at the latter's residence at Nayabazaar, Thursday. A press statement issued by the US embassy on Friday said the meeting was held to discuss the result of the Constituent Assembly (CA) election. This is the first ever meeting of a US official with the Maoist leadership in Nepal. The meeting took place a day before Powell left for Washington to brief her government on the Nepal situation. The statement said that Powell provided Prachanda an overview of current US government assistance to this country, designed to help create a more prosperous, democratic and stable Nepal. The envoy sought assurances from Maoist Chairman Prachanda that the new government would respect current donor agreements and ensure the safety of those implementing them. According to a Maoist source, Prachanda during the meeting said the US government should remove the Maoists from its terrorist list. Powell assured Prachanda that her government would soon remove the Maoists from the terrorist list. "Powell said the act of removing the Maoists from the US terrorist list is delayed due to bureaucratic process," the source said. The Maoist chairman, accompanied by senior leader Dr Baburam Bhattarai, told Powell that the Maoists want to maintain good relations with the US. During the meeting, Powell also encouraged Prachanda to ensure that all Maoist organizations illustrate their commitment to the political process through their words and actions. The US placed the CPN (Maoist) in its Specially Designated Global Terrorist Entities list in October 2003 through an executive order (no. 13224) signed by President George W. Bush.

Himalayan Travellers Club Tours & Travels   Army, police to thwart Free-Tibet demo on Everest Will open fire if necessary KATHMANDU, April 20 - Possibly for the first time, Nepal has deployed dozens of  army and police personnel on Mount Everest in a bid to foil any Free-Tibet movement against China as Tibetan activists have threatened to spoil the Olympics torch relay. Also acting upon concern of the Chinese government toward ensuring a safe passage for the torch, 25 army and police personnel have already reached Camp II with logistics and mountaineering equipment to prevent any activities against China, confirmed spokesperson of Home Ministry Mod Raj Dotel. These personnel have received special mountaineering training. Camp II is at around 6,500 metres above sea level, beyond the Khumbu region. Dotel said that the security personnel have been instructed to open fire if protests against China turn violent and go out of control in the Everest region. “If the security personnel feel pressure to control any untoward incident, we have made an arrangement to deploy additional forces during Olympics torch run,” said Dotel, adding that Nepal Government would not allow any such activities taking place in the country. Nepal Government officially regards Tibet as part of China. In this connection, the government had also imposed a restriction between May 1 and 10 on climbing Mount Everest.This was announced last month to prevent any possible Tibetan protests and disturbance of the torch relay in the region.  However, the government eased the restriction and told climbers they would be allowed to climb up to Camp II so that they can better prepare for their ascent to the summit. Army spokesperson Ramindra Chhetri also confirmed that 11 army officers, who have received mountaineering training, have been sent to Camp II from the capital. Krishna Prasad Gyanwali, under-secretary at Ministry of Tourism, said the army personnel would accompany expedition teams as liaison officers and would ensure that no climber goes above Camp II before May 10. Amidst the ongoing protests by Tibetans against China in the country and across the world since mid-March, the government was forced to deploy security forces so that no potential protester would be able to climb the peak and organize any anti-China movement from the Nepalese side. Jyoti Adhikari, president of Treking Agencies' Association of Nepal, expressed hope that security officers could also prevent those who try to sneak climb the mountain without permission as similar cases had been reported on earlier occasions.  This current climbing season that ends in May, according to Adhikari, around 500 persons including foreigners and porters are expected to climb the mountain. Some of them have already left for the base camp in Namche Bazaar.   I will be head of new government: Prachanda KATHMANDU, April 19 - CPN-Maoist Chairman Prachanda Saturday informed that the new government will be formed under his leadership. Speaking at a programme in the capital organised by the Maoists to express gratitude to the voters of Kathmandu district constituency-10 from where Prachanda was elected for the CA, the Maoist supremo said that he will address the masses with new development plans after the government is formed under his leadership. “I will present myself in front of you in a few days' times as the head of the new republican government. I will also put forward all the new plans for the formation of a ‘New Nepal' and the plans for a new constitution,” Prachanda said. He also said that the country will be declared a federal republic by the first meeting of the CA as per the agreement between the Seven-Party-Alliance. Prachanda visited various places of Kathmandu constituency-10 including Bagvairabh, Nagaun and Tanga to express gratitude to the public. On the occasion, the public congratulated him for being elected with high majority in the CA polls. King satisfied s KATHMANDU, April 13 - King Gyanendra has expressed satisfaction at the people's enthusiastic participation in the constituent assembly elections. In a message of greetings to the people on the occasion of the Nepali New Year 2065, the king said the Nepali people have expressed unflinching determination not to let national identity, independence and territorial integrity become compromised in the constituent assembly. In his message, the king also said: "Let us keep alive our well-known discretion in order to give continuity to patriotism, national pride and its basic and distinct identity along with peace and democracy Ban Ki-moon, Arbour congratulates Nepal KATHMANDU, April 11 - United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon Friday congratulated the people of Nepal for conducting the Constituent Assembly election in a generally orderly and peaceful atmosphere. In a statement issued Friday, Ban commended the Nepali people for their enthusiastic participation in the historic event. The Secretary General also appealed to all concerning parties to remain calm while awaiting the results. Meanwhile, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Louise Arbour also congratulated the people of Nepal on Thursday's elections for a Constituent Assembly. In a press release issued today, she described the polls as a crucial advance in the country's historic transition, and one that should have a very positive long-term impact on the human rights of its citizens. “Elections for a Constituent Assembly that will be responsible for drafting a new constitution are a major stride towards a new future in Nepal in which the rights of all people – including historically marginalized communities – are respected,” Arbour said in the statement.  The High Commissioner particularly welcomed the reportedly large and enthusiastic participation of women in the election.  “I congratulate the authorities for their success so far in holding a largely peaceful election process despite the difficult circumstances. And I trust that all the political parties in Nepal will accept the decision of the electors, whatever it may be,” she said. In the statement, Arbour, however, said she was deeply saddened by a number of deaths that occurred during the run up to the election and on Election Day itself.  Victorious Prachanda says he is committed to co-ordinate with other parties KATHMANDU, April 12 - CPN-Maoist Chairman Prachanda Saturday congratulated the voters and the Nepali people as a whole and expressed his commitment to coordinate with the parties in the forming of a new constitution after he was elected to the Constituent Assembly from Kathmandu district-10. Addressing a mass at Birendra International Convention Centre in the capital this afternoon after he was declared victorious in Kathmandu constituency-10, the Maoist supremo claimed that the country is on the verge of an epoch-making change and is entering a new age. “The people through their overwhelming support have demanded a federal democratic republic and we will follow the people's orders,” he added. Prachanda also said that he has always been committed to co-ordinate with the parties, from the time of the historic 12 point agreement to the current peace process to the creation of a ‘New Nepal'. He also stated that he will strive to maintain a cordial relationship with the international community. “Questions will be raised about the relation of the country with the international community under the new leadership. But I will strive to maintain co-operation and support from the international community,” said Prachanda. He also claimed that the enthusiasm and patience exercised by the Nepali people answered all the questions raised against the Maoist party. The Maoist Chairman also expressed his commitment to multi-party democracy and assured that there would be co-ordination among the parties while forming a new constitution in the process of creating a ‘New Nepal'. Prachanda also said that he will strive to create a ‘new Nepal' by focusing on extensive national unity by escalating economic development for long-lasting peace in the country. Prachanda secured 23,277 votes in constituency-10 in the capital. Himalayan Travellers Club Tours & Travels UN, US, China congratulate Nepali people KATHMANDU, April 12 - Nepal has been receiving messages of congratulations from the international community, including the UN, for holding the Constituent Assembly (CA) election successfully on Thursday. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has commended the Nepali people for what he said was their enthusiastic participation in the poll. “The Secretary-General congratulates the people of Nepal on Thursday's Constituent Assembly election which took place in a generally orderly and peaceful atmosphere,” said a statement issued by a spokesperson for the Secretary-General in New York Thursday night. Besides, Ban has also appealed to all the political parties to remain calm while awaiting the results.  Similarly, the United States, in a statement “heartily” congratulated the Nepali people for holding the election, saying Nepal has taken a huge step forward on the path of peace and democracy. “Overwhelmingly across the country men and women were able to cast their ballots in a peaceful and orderly way. This represents an historic achievement and is a tribute to the courage of the Nepali people and the conduct of the Election Commission,” said a statement issued by the US embassy in Kathmandu. Besides, the US has urged patience and respect for the results of the election as it will take weeks.  “We stand ready to assist the people of Nepal in their pursuit of a more peaceful, democratic and prosperous future,” the statement said. Likewise, China has expressed its happiness over the holding of the election smoothly. “The Chinese side is delighted to see that the Constituent Assembly Elections in Nepal were held smoothly,” read a statement issued by Chinese embassy in Kathmandu, Friday. “We respect the choice made by the Nepalese people on the social system and development path according to Nepal's national conditions.” Besides, China has hoped that Nepal will achieve political stability and economic development and has assured  continuity of its assistance to Nepal Himalayan Travellers Club Tours & Travels   Maoist supremo Prachanda addressing a press conference in Kathmandu on Sunday.   Kathmandu, March 23: Club of Himalaya Trekking & Travels Maoist chairman Prachanda has alleged that 60 of his cadres were killed since the Maoists entered the peace process two years ago, and added that it surprises him why the media have been blacking out such incidents and blowing out of proportion minor incidents in which his party was guilty. “But we are still committed to the peace process and the CA polls,” he said during an interaction organised here by Media Group Nepal today. Prachanda lamented that there had been a minimum level of understanding among the republican and democratic forces for the CA polls. “Some of the parties have taken the CA election as if it is a regular parliamentary election,” he said. He reiterated that his party would accept whatever verdict the people would give in the elections, provided the elections were free and fair. “But one must not look at the peace process and CA polls as separate entities, as election is taking place because thousands sacrificed their lives,” he said. He disclosed that he met Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala this morning, and took up the issue of killing of Maoists since their beginning of the peace process. He said he urged the PM to implement the 23-point agreement reached among he seven-party alliance. “If the 23-point agreement is not implemented it may be difficult to hold the elections as expected,” Prachanda said. He came down heavily on the Nepal Army for issuing denials about a series of meetings held between him and the NA generals. “Why do they do it when the election is knocking on the door? Do they want to derail the peace process and take advantage of chaotic situation that may arise afterwards?” he wondered. He revealed that he had met NA officials — at Hotel Summit and Hotel Ambassador. “I will disclose what went on during the meetings only at an appropriate time,” he said. He also asked King Gyanendra to vacate the Narayanhiti Palace at the earliest, as it was apparent that he would be dethroned after the polls. Prachanda criticised the UNMIN report made public yesterday which blamed the Maoist for indulging in violence. “I met UNMIN chief Ian Martin this morning and told him his report is biased. The report mentions nothing about brutal killings of our cadres,” he said, adding that two persons arrested on the charge of killing RJN candidate Kamal Adhikari in Banke were not his party cadres. He said the seven-party alliance meeting scheduled for tomorrow would discuss the latest political and security situation. He hoped that the meeting would help cement ties among the alliance partners.

 

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EEMT expresses concern over disruption of electoral process

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KATHMANDU, March 19 - The United Nations Electoral Expert Monitoring Team (EEMT) Wednesday expressed concern over the intensification of harassment and acts of violence against some electoral candidates and their supporters.

“Such acts disrupt the electoral process by violating the people's right of free assembly and obstructing the capacity of political parties and candidates to participate in a fair campaign,” the EEMT said in a press statement today. 

Stating that the signing of agreements between the government and the United Democratic Madhesi Front (UDMF) and the Federal Republican National Front (FRNF) were fundamental for allowing the reduction of violence in the Terai region, the EEMT stated that ‘compared with the previous visits of the EEMT, the security situation has improved.'

Urging the government, security forces, political parties, electoral officials, and stakeholders to make all efforts to avoid a resurgence of violence, it further added, “Every effort should be made to guarantee that the current positive conditions prevail not only before and on Election Day, but also during the counting and announcement of results.”

Expressing satisfaction over the preparations for the election being conducted in a timely manner, the EEMT noted that “the Election Commission has been working under a tight electoral calendar, but has shown flexibility to accommodate new nominations in order to widen the participation of candidates and make the process more inclusive.”

“In this context, political parties have a special role in ensuring that the electoral process, in all its phases, develops in a peaceful environment in which candidates and voters can express their opinions and political will free of fear and intimidation in order for voters to freely exercise their rights on Election Day.  It is of crucial importance that political parties strictly follow the code of conduct and election norms. Political parties should refrain from interfering in the administration of the election, especially with regard to the organization of the polls and the provision of security, which are exclusively entrusted to the Election Commission and the security forces respectively.”

The EEMT established under the mandate of the Security Council Resolution 1740, has concluded its fourth visit to Nepal, which took place from 3 – 17 March 2008.

The five-member Team, appointed by the Secretary-General and led by Dr. Rafael Lopez-Pintor, is responsible for assessing the Constituent Assembly electoral process on a regular basis in order to determine whether it is proceeding in a manner that will lead to a result that accurately reflects the will of the Nepalese people, according to the statement.

The team held talks with members of the Government, election officials, political parties, leaders of women's, ethnic and traditionally marginalized groups, the media, civil society, the diplomatic community, international observers, Armed Police Force and Nepal Police and the public in general. In addition to its activities in Kathmandu, the team also visited several districts in the central and eastern Terai, the statement added.

The EEMT is not a part of United Nations Mission in Nepal (UNMIN) and operates separately from the UNMIN Electoral Assistance Office, which provides technical assistance to the Election Commission, it further stated.

Meanwhile, UNMIN has expressed grave concern over the killing, in Betahani VDC in the Mid-Western region in the evening of 18 March, of Kamal Prasad Adhikari, who was a candidate for the Rastriya Jana Morcha party in the Banke-2 constituency.

”Violence and threats against candidates represent a serious obstacle to the creation of a free and fair atmosphere for the election, and all efforts must be made to bring those responsible to justice,” it said in a press statement today.

UNMIN and OHCHR-Nepal continue their monitoring activities, in support of the creation of an atmosphere conducive for the election and the protection of human rights, it added.

 

EU mission starts to observe poll's process

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KATHMANDU, March 18 - The European Union (EU) Election Observation Mission (EOM) Tuesday officially launched its Constituent Assembly (CA) polls monitoring programme.

The EU informed that the EOM will oversee all the procedures and aspects related to the CA polls.

Speaking at a press conference in the capital today, head of the EOM Jan Mulder said that the monitoring would be carried out abiding with international election regulations and laws of the country.

All the election monitors will remain unbiased and the mission will work according to the election code of conduct set in the country, he added.

The EU has deployed a 110-member EOM team for the polls.

Besides a core team of 10 experts, the mission includes 40 long-term and over 60 short-term observers.

The mission is scheduled to stay in Nepal for an over-all period of ten weeks

CPN-Maoists issue statement on Tibet unrest

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KATHMANDU, March 19 - CPN-Maoist Wednesday said that the party believed that Tibet is an integral part of the Republic of China.

Issuing a press statement on its view regarding the ongoing unrest in China's autonomous region Tibet today, the Maoists expressed sadness over the continuing violence in Lasha.

The Maoist statement said, “We strongly condemn the incident that put at risk the freedom and sovereignty of the Chinese people.”

”We want to draw the attention of the concerned authority to the activities against China at the Nepal-China border,” the Maoist statement said.

Stating that the party would always support the Chinese people and remain by their side, the statement added that the Maoists believed the Chinese government was capable enough to deal with such a situation.

Stop YCL's anarchic activities immediately, PM urges Prachanda
KATHMANDU, March 12 - Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala Wednesday urged CPN-Maoist Chairman Prachanda to stop its youth front Young Communist League (YCL) from carrying out anarchic activities immediately.

During a meeting between PM Koirala and Maoist second-in-command Dr Babu Ram Bhattarai held at the PM's official residence at Baluwatar this morning, Koirala asked Bhattarai to tame the YCL and reminded the attacks carried out by them.

The octogenarian leader expressed his concerns over the YCL attack on electoral campaign of different parties in some of the Terai districts at a time when the election atmosphere is improving, a source reported.

Only yesterday in his home town Biratnagar, the PM had said that he will discuss the excesses carried out by the YCL with CPN-Maoist Chairman Prachanda at the earliest after arriving in the capital. He had also warned of possible action against the YCL if the excesses continued.

During today's meeting, PM Koirala and Dr Bhattarai discussed on the immediate implementation of the 23-point agreement forged among the major seven parties.

PM Koirala expressed his commitment to provide relief to the family of the martyrs in a few days as per the 23-point agreement.

Also today, the PM held separate consultations with the British and US Ambassadors to Nepal.PM Koirala announced to retire from politics after conducting the upcoming constituent Assembly (CA) elections, slated for April 10.

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Send Home a Friend' program launched in Germany
BERLIN (GERMANY), March 10 - Nepal on Saturday launched 'Send Home a Friend' program in Germany, which is intended to lure the Nepali diaspora abroad to send friends back home.

As part of a new marketing strategy, Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation (MoCTCA) and Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) have implemented the program since last January, which will extend until the end of the year.

However, non-resident Nepalese said the government should promptly unveil necessary supporting measures to make the campaign a success.

Dil Gurung, president of Non-Resident Nepali Association, Germany said despite its commitment and announcement to provide privilege card --  which gives discounts for tourists going to Nepal in restaurants and hotels -- the government has not been able to do so yet.

"It has to coordinate with local restaurants, hotels, departmental stores, airlines and decide how much discount the privilege card holders can get and distribute the card at the earliest," he said.

Stressing the need for effective role of Nepali diplomatic missions abroad, he said the embassy must apply economic diplomacy effectively. "Furthermore, the embassy has to set up a separate tourism desk, recognizing its contribution to the economy," he said.

He said that air accessibility problem is creating roadblock in sending more tourists to Nepal, adding that the government must bolster the status of the troubled national flag carrier by expanding its fleet. "Europeans prefer to travel on direct flights. So, the government has to do the needful to connect Nepal directly with Europe," he said.

Ram Pratap Thapa, honorary consul of Nepal in Germany said the government has to expedite the 'Send Home a Friend' campaign, saying that it has been very slow so far. 

He also suggested that the government revise its visa policy. "Its visa fee for those getting it at the airport in Nepal should be the same as here in the embassy," he said. "Moreover, the visa should be multiple and valid for at least five months." He said these are small steps but will go a long way in attracting tourists.

Thapa, who is also vice-president of NRN International Coordination Committee, also expressed commitment that NRNs are ready to extend support to the government by sending maximum possible friends to Nepal as tourists. Earlier, speaking at the launching program, Prachanda Man Shrestha, chief executive officer of NTB said NRNs could play a crucial role in boosting tourism through word of mouth contact.

Air Berlin plans to fly in Nepalese sky

Air Berlin, a fast-growing low-cost carrier, has plans to operate direct flights between Nepal and Germany. The Germany-based airline's operation, set to be the first direct link between Nepal and Europe, will contribute in promoting Nepal's tourism that has suffered from shortage of air seats in the European market .

 At a meeting with a senior-level Nepalese government team in Berlin on Saturday, the airline said it is conducting feasibility study as part of preparation to fly in the Nepalese sky.

The airline said it would decide the exact date and number of flights after the study, said Nandini Lahe Thapa, marketing director of Nepal Tourism Board, who participated in the meeting. The team led by Lilamani Poudel, secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Civil Aviation and Tourism, held talks with Stelal Nagel, senior vice-president of the airline last Wednesday.

A major ally of the ruling Seven-Party alliance (SPA), CPN-UML on Sunday made public its election manifesto for the Constituent Assembly (CA) proposing to bestow the executive powers of the state upon the Prime Minister and to give just a ceremonial role to the President who will also be the head of the state.

UML General Secretary Madhav Kumar Nepal publicised the manifesto with the slogan 'Let's establish a federal democratic republic, let's build a strong and prosperous Nepal”, at a press conference organised at the UML headquarters at Balkhu in the capital today.

The manifesto has proposed to elect the Prime Minster under first-past-the-post (FPTP) election system and the President through a clear majority of the elected parliament.

The UML manifesto has also proposed to bestow all responsibilities of the country's administration upon the Prime Minister.

According to UML standing committee member Ishwor Pokhrel, the party, however, has proposed to entitle only limited rights and responsibilities to the President in his capacity as the ceremonial Head of State.

Likewise, the manifesto has also provisions for a bicameral legislative body at the centre, unicameral assembly at each state under the new federal governance system.

UML General Secretary Nepal said, “The elected representatives shall run the local bodies.”

 “We have forwarded the principle of developing the federal structure on the basis of ethnic, linguistic, cultural and geographical distinctiveness,” he added.

The UML manifesto, however, does not mention the number of states to be formed under the federal system.

The party has said that the number of states will be determined later by the state restructuring a commission comprising experts.

According to the manifesto, the first CA meeting will form a commission with the consensus of the political parties to draft a new constitution and to restructure the country in a progressive manner.

Regarding UML's economic plan, the UML General Secretary said, “We have proposed for the development of the public, private and cooperative sectors as the pillars of our economy.” 

The UML will also focus on the development of tourism, water resources and agriculture sectors, he added.

Earlier on Friday, the CPN-Maoist had publicised its election manifesto which proposes the election of an executive President through the FPTP system and the Prime Minister through the elected parliament.

In the last section of the Maoist manifesto, the party has proposed that Maoist Chairman Prachanda should be elected as the first president of New Nepal .

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KATHMANDU, Feb 27 - Members of parties hailing from Madhes on Tuesday accused the agitating United Democratic Madhesi Front (UDMF) of trying to prolong monarchy in the country.

Speaking at an interaction  in the capital, Minister for Forest and Soil Conservation Matrika Yadav charged that some Madhesi leaders were hatching a conspiracy in demanding to defer the Constituent Assembly (CA) poll be defered by one month.

"There would be no elections at all if it is not held in the stipulated date," he said. "The demand is nothing but a conspiracy to save the feudal monarchy."

Yadav expressed confidence that the poll would be held on the stipulated date even if some leaders choose to boycott it. "It does not have any meaning whether or not Matrika Prasad Yadav takes part in the poll," he said, adding: "Entire Madhesi people are in favor of participating in the poll."

 Madhesi leader Ram Raja Prasad Singh said the CA poll should be held on the stipulated date despite the violence that has surfaced in some tarai districts. "Minor incidents of violence are common everywhere on the eve of elections," he added.

However, Singh said it is necessary on the part of the rulers to have what he called 'greatness' in them to draft a new constitution that could last for centuries.

Former chief election commissioner Surya Prasad Shrestha said all stakeholders must present themselves in a responsible manner at this critical juncture of history. While urging not to incite localized and communal feelings, he said, "Leaders should be able to project themselves as the country's leaders rather than these of a particular place."

 

Namaste from Himalaya "Club of Himalaya Trekking"

Heavenly place: Ghumarichok Ecotourism project Angry with town noises? Need to relax? We have what you want…. Ghumarichok ! It is a small village in the Kathmandu Valley (about 20 km). The landscape is beautiful and you can enjoy the Tamang culture. You can have a rest in a nice guesthouse: Surya guesthouse after your visit of the Bajrayogini temple and before exploring the Shivapuri National Park. Surya Bahadur offers a nice guesthouse with 4 double beds separated by curtains. The lovely room is well garnished. One can access to the room ascending a stair from the balcony. Tourist will be able to appreciate the calm and nice view of sun rise and sun set sitting on the straw mattresses with a glass of hot milk or lemon tea. Separate toilets and bathroom are also available. Sura Bahadur and his family hold a grocery shop on the ground floor and collect milk brought by the villagers every morning. Sun rise from the village From the guesthouse, we can enjoy a magnificent view of the Kathmandu valley, mountains and hills. This is also the best place in the village to see sun rise and sun set, to go to visit forests, observe birds and flora. A lover of nature, calmness and tranquility will find peace of heart. When the weather is clear you can enjoy a beautiful mountain view from the top of the village: Ganesh Himal, Annapurna Himal. View of KTM valley on the fog Proposal of a two-days trip: First day: Morning: Departure from Kathmandu. Take the bus at Ratna Park to Sankhu . Possibility to stop on the way at Boudha in order to visit its beautiful stupa, the biggest in Nepal. Arrival in Sankhu • City of Sankhu: About 7km distance from Boudha, a trail to the south crosses the Manohara River on a temporary bridge (dry season only) and ascends the ridge to Changu Narayan. The road carries on to SANKHU: an important trade and spiritual centre in ancient times which now drifts on as a Newar backwater in a far corner of the valley. A large but unhurried town, it's not especially well preserved, but neither is it at all touristy. The oldest part is the bazaar area to the east of the main north-south road. Sankhu's main festivals are Magh Sankranti (January), observed with bathing just upstream of the town, and Sankhu Jaatra (the full moon of March-April), when the image of Bajra Jogini is paraded. You won't find a restaurant here, but you should be able to get snacks in the bazaar and at the Bajra Jogini temple. Sankhu : street scene Two roads connect Sankhu with Nagarkot: the more traveled route leaves Sankhu from the old bazaar area, heading north, while a steeper back way branches off on a more easterly bearing. The main road from Boudha continues northwards partway to the Vajra Jogini temple. Sanku or Sakwa is a small and charming but a very old Newar city and lies 23 km from Kathmandu. It derives its name from Sankhapura, which means Conch City. It lies on the famous route to Tibet. It is believed that sankhu was established in 1299 AC, it is the oldest urban center in the valley. The traders used this route. This legendary city is worth a visit because of its old houses, beautiful wood- carved temples and old stone water taps. After the visit of Sankhu, walk to Bajrayogini temple. On the way, take five minutes to stop at the Buddhist monastery (on the left side after the first small stupa). • Temple of Bajrayogini The famous temple of Goddess Ugratara Bajrayogini is situated at a 45 minutes walking distance from Sankhu. The temple complex is supposed to be as old as Changunarayan (467 AD). It is mentioned in Gopal Vamsabali, a research manuscript, which states Manadev performed penance at this place. The present three-tier structure or the temple is the contribution of King Pratap Malla. Temple of Bajrayogini Bajryogini is Nepal's unique and valuable treasure. Sankhu Bajrajogini is one of the Valley's oldest shrines. Both Buddhists and Hindus have their separate tantras and sadhanas of Ugratara. She is accounted as a superior goddess of wisdom, Symbol of Women's power and spiritual dancer. Here is an extraordinary, sublime image of Yogini, and an eternal flame. After the visit of the temple, walk to Gumarichock (45 minutes). Afternoon: Arrival at Gumarichock Possibility to enjoy a great Dal bath in the Surya Guesthouse sitting on the balcony and looking at the Kathmandu Valley. Visit and discovery of the village • Ghumarichok, a Tamang village: If visitors are interested to learn about Tamang, this village can offer a good panorama on Tamang culture and society. These Tamangs have a long history of exchange with the Newar of Sankhu. Both of those groups celebrate certain festivals related to Bajrayogini. Tamang are autochtonous people of Ghumarichok village. There are 300 houses and about 2000 inhabitants. They speak Tibeto Burmease language. Many are engaged in the agriculture (75%) and others do some business and services (25%). They grow iskuss, rice, wheat, millet, corn… Some of them produce milk and local wine and sell it in the market. The Tamang (also known as Murmi) are one of the several ethnic groups living in Nepal descended from Tibeto-Burman origins. Living mainly north and east of the Newars in the Kathmandu valley, they constitute 5.6% of Nepal's population, which places their population at 1,280,000, slightly higher than the Newars. Due to their geographical location, their language is vaguely intelligible with Neawri but closely related to both Tibetan and Sherpa. The name Tamang means horse traders in Tibetan, which suggest that their ancestors came from the north and traded horses with the local community (Newars) and later settled and intermarried among them. However, many of them today earn a living through serving as porters. Like the Sherpas, they are also good mountaineers and mountain-guides. The Tamangs are followers of Lamaism mixed with elements of the pre- Buddhist Bön and the Tambaist religion. Due to their close proximity with the Newar, a slight Hindu influence can be seen in their practises. Their priests include Lama, Bombo and Tamba. Tamang celebrate different festivals: Pashain (October), Tihan (22 days after Pashain), Buddha Purnima (full moon between april and may), Maghe Sankaranti (Mid January), Sawane Sanlcaranti (Mid July) and others… Do not hesitate to ask if there is soon a marriage in the village because the marriage celebration is different from other casts. Evening: Stay at the Surya guesthouse and have dinner Second day: Morning: Visit of the Shivapuri National Park (one hour to go). Nature, flora and fauna The village of Ghumarichokk is adjacent to the Shivapuri National Park. One hour of walk from the guesthouse, you can arrive to the park where the lovers of nature could appreciate flora and fauna, tranquility and peace. A scenic view of the mountains enchants the eyes of visitors . The breathtaking views of the high Himalayan peaks can be seen from the top of the Shivapuri Mountain. Shivapuri park on the top of the village The Shivapuri National Park (144 sq km) is the major watershed supplying drinking water to the capital city of Kathmandu. Lying in the transition zone between the subtropical and temperate climatic zones, its diverse vegetation is composed of pine, oak, rhododendron and others. The park is rich in wild mushrooms (129 species), The wildlife found in the national park includes Himalayan black bear, leopard, jungle cat, and rhesus monkeys. The park is home to over 177 species of birds including 9 threatened species, over 100 species of butterflies including rare and threatened. Afternoon After the visit of the park, go to Manichood temple. Quiet hidden place in the Shivapuri National Park with a small lake and several small temples. Return to the Kathmandu Valley: 2 possibilities: Kathmandu by bus. Go back to Sankhu, take the bus to Kathmandu. (Ratna Park). Nagarkot by bus or by walking (4 hours) If you have more time Manilingeshor Temple (1/2 hours) Small waterfall where you can bath and see a religious place where villagers have the habit to come during festivals. Sundarijal Temple (2hrs ½) Kageswar Temple (2 hours) Chishowpani (4 hours) Gosain Kunda (3 days) Langtang National Park: An area of 9710 sq. km where you can find dabra, kustari, leopard, snow leopard, dangali sheep, bear, yak… Ghumarickock is situated on the trekking road of the park. Tourist guide available in the village: There are motivated people among the villagers who speak simple English and are really devoted and ready to work as guide. They are cheerful, cooperative, and intelligent and possess a good knowledge of Tamang culture. If it is easy for Nepali people to find the road to the different temples, it is not so for tourists! So do not hesitate to take a guide. Chances are that all the features will help you enjoy a lovely stay; such as natural scenes and landscape, nature, forest, tranquility, smiling people, villagers ready to receive guests. Price for the guesthouse: 300 Rupees per night per person including Bed, commodities (toilets, bathroom) Nepali tea, Dinner (Dal bath or noodles), breakfast (tea, biscuits, eggs) A part of the sum will be used by the tourism committee to improve the conditions of living in the village (school, medical help…). Additional cost: see with the guide

E-MAIL:

• trekking2007@gmail.com

 

TIBET TOURS

Travelers who are keen to visit Tibet Everest Base Camp (North side) combining with Lhasa and other highlighted places of Central Tibet are welcome to join this tour. This tour commences from Kathmandu with a spectacular Trans-Himalayan flight, which probably is the most beautiful flight on Earth. In Lhasa , you will spend two days for sightseeing tour. After Lhasa , you will take a Jeep tour to Everest Base Camp via Gyantse, Yamdruk Tso, and Shigatse, these are the

highlighted places in Central Tibet .

The Everest Base Camp tour departs from Kathmandu on regular basis from April through the end of October. Rest of the time, the tour operation depends on weather condition. Since, the weather in Tibet is very harsh, the high passes in the winter time can be blocked some times because of deep snow. We operate this tour for both individual and small group travelers.

Our company will arrange Tibet group visa and all necessary travel documents in advance, all you need to do is to choose the departure date as per you convenience and send your Passport Photocopy by fax or mail.

Tibet Everest Base Camp Tour : 9 Days (Fly in - drive out)

 

Day 1: Upon arrival in Kathmandu . We meet you at the airport & transfer to your hotel.

Day 2: At leisure in Kathmandu

Day 3: Fly to Lhasa , our guide meets you at the airport & transfer to hotel (98 km). Overnight Hotel Flora

Day 4: Lhasa guided sightseeing tour

Day 5: Lhasa guided sightseeing tour
Day 6: Jeep tour, Lhasa to Gyantse (3950 m.) via Turquoise Lake . Hotel Utse

Day 7: Jeep tour, Gyantse to Shigatse (3900 m.) via Shalu Monastery. Hotel Everest Friendship

Day 8: Jeep tour, Shigatse to Xegar (New Tingri - 4300 m.) via Sakya Monastery. Hotel Chomolongma
Day 9: Jeep tour, Xegar to Everest Base Camp (4920 m.). Hotel Everest View
Day 10: Jeep tour, Everest Base Camp to Zhangmu (2150 m.). Hotel Zhangmu
Day 11: Drive, Nyalam to Zhang-Mu then continue drive back to Kathmandu

COST DETAILS:

Cost for the group size of: 1 person
Tour cost: US $ 1790
Tibet visa: US $ 45
Flight ticket: US $ 316
Total price: US $ 2151 per person

 

Cost for the group size of: 2 persons
Tour cost: US $ 1000
Tibet visa: US $ 45
Flight ticket: US $ 316
Total price: US $ 1361 per person

 

Cost for the group size of: 3 persons
Tour cost: US $ 700
Tibet visa: US $ 45
Flight ticket: US $ 627
Total price: US $ 1061 per person

 

Cost for the group size of: 4 persons
Tour cost: US $ 650
Tibet visa: US $ 45
Flight ticket: US $ 627
Total price: US $ 1141 per perso

The price includes the following services:

1. All necessary Tibet travel permits
2. Kathmandu - Lhasa – Kathmandu flight ticket

3. Transportation in Tibet with 4WD Land Cruiser (deluxe model)
4. Accommodation in Tibet on sharing basis with breakfast
5. Two days guided sightseeing tour in Lhasa
6. Tibetan Guide (English speaking)

7. Monastery entrance fees / sightseeing entrance fees

8. Tibet group visa
9. All applicable taxes and service charges
10. All applicable taxes and service charge

 

The price excludes the following services:

1. Meals other than breakfast in Tibet

2. Airport tax in Kathmandu (US $ 25) while flying to Lhasa
3. Nepal re-entry visa fee (US $ 30 per person)
4. Your travel insurance
5. Insurance for any loss and damage
6. Personal tip for guide and driver
7. Any additional expenses due to unforeseen circumstances

Note:
1. For an American citizen, there will be an additional US $ 15 for visa fee
2. If you would like to have a single room for the entire journey the supplement cost is US $ 150

 

Here I want to invite you all to visit Nepal in the year 2007.

Would you like to travel with low-cost 
accommodations, meet interesting
people,and share travel experiences?

Does the warmth and hospitality of a
bed and breakfast experience appeal 
to you?

Then we have an exciting alternative!

Join a host of other friendly travelers in the
growing family of the Affordable Travel Club!

You stay in private homes of travelers like yourself, paying a small gratuity.  In the 'private home hospitality accommodation', the hosts are individuals who enjoy meeting other people, sharing their homes and communities, and perhaps even serving their favorite breakfast,Lunch and Dinner recipe.

With over 1000 host locations in the states and entire the Himalaya countries), there is a wide assortment of homes both in atmosphere and location: urban, suburban, rural  It is a 'home away from home' experience, only better, since you don't have to cook breakfast,Lunch and Dinner

Although many of the hosts are House wife,retired, others have jobs outside the home during the day but enjoy taking guests when their schedules allow.  Amenities vary with each home.  Sometimes, for special consideration, your host will act as a guide in the area or go to dinner with you on a "Nepali Bancha basis"to the next Neighbour as well.  Most important, your host knows the area and can give you information on tourist attractions and the best places to dine. and to be around for the next days.

 

 

Dear all friend and Guest to New Nepal.

Dolpo (upper and lower)Trekking to the Dolpo region has only been permitted since mid-1989. The region lies to the west of the Kali Gandaki Valley. This is located inside the She-Phoksundo National Park in mid-western Nepal, behind the Dhaulagiri massif, toward the Tibetan plateau. This region offers visits to ancient villages, high passes, beautiful Lakes, isolated Buddhist monasteries and plentiful wildlife (including Blue sheep, Mountain goat, Jackal, Wolf and Snow Leopard).
Before reaching the spectacular higher altitude settings, you will spend quite a few days hiking through lower-elevation forests with views of the lower Dolpo. This remains a truly isolated corner of Nepal. Time has stood still here for centuries as inhabitants of Tibetan stock continue to live, cultivate and trade the way they have done from time immemorial. Most treks into Dolpo take 14 to 30 days. The best time to trek here is toward the end of the monsoon season (SPECIFY!). Shorter Dolpo treks are possible by flying into the air strip at Jumla. Trek through Dolpo is an unforgettable experience.

Day 01 Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (fly)Day 02 Nepalgunj to Jumla - GhotichourDay 03 Ghotichaur to Napukhona (3000 m)
Day 04 Napakuna to Chaurikot (3000 m)
Day 05 Chaurikot to Veri river Side
Day 06 Veri River Side to Garpung Khola
Day 07 We start the trek following the river upstream. We finally cross the river by a small wooden bridge over huge rocks. This is Impeyan Pheasant (the colorful national bird of Nepal) country and just above us is the Kagmara pea(5880m) Day 08 We follow the Garpung Khola. The trail becomes steeper and reaches rocky ground beyond the timber line. The Himalayan mouse-hare can be spotted here.
Day 09 Kagmara La The climb is strenuous until we reach the Kagmara La
(pass) at an altitude of 5115 m. We then descend, following the river and camp on a grassy spot.
Day 10 Pungmo (3050 m.)
Day 11 Pungmo to Phoksumdo Lake (3600m)
Day 12 Phoksumdo Lake Here we rest and admire the beauty of this great lake. We visit nearby villages inhabited by Bon and Buddhist Settlers.
Day 13 Phoksumdo Lake to Baga La(5090m)
Day 14 Baga La to Numla Pass Base Camp(5190 m)
Day 15 Numla Pass Base Camp to DhoTarap
Day 16 Dho Tarap
Day 17 Cave Camp
Day 18 To Lahini
Day 19 Lahini to Tarakot ( 2400 m)
Day 20 Tarakot to Dunai (2150 m)
Day 21 Dunai to Jhupal
Day 22 Jhupal to Nepalgunj
Day 23 Nepalgunj to Kathmandu

 

Mt. Lhotse Expedition 2008

(8516 mt high)

Best season: spring

Itinerary.

Day 01 Arrival Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel

Day 02 Kathmandu

Day 03 Kathmandu

Day 04Transfer to the airport, fly to Lukla, 2800m and trek to Phakding, 2640m.

Day 05 Trek to Namche Bazaar, 3446m.

Day 06Trek to Khumjung, 3790m.

Day 07 Khumjung, acclimatization day.

Day 08Trek to Tengboche Monastery, 3867m

Day 09Trek to Dingboche, 4347m.

Day 10Trek to Lobuche, 4900m.

Day 11Trek to Everest Base Camp, 5357m.

Day 12 to 37 Climbing Period
day 38Cleaning up Base Camp.

Day 39 Trek to Dingboche.

Day 40Trek to Khumjung.

Day 41Trek to Phakding.

Day 42 Trek to Lukla.

Day 43 fly back to Kathmandu

Day 44 rest day in kathmandu.

Day 45 Transfer to airport for final departure.

Cost:
Expedition cost 4-7 Person: USD 4300.00 (per person) Mt.Lhotse Royalty fee 1-7 person USD 10000.00 (above 7 person USD 1500 per person up to 12 per person)

Climbing Guide cost per guide USD 1500.00 Garbage Deposit per team USD 3000.00 (refundable)

Package Price Includes

Five night’s hotel in Kathmandu 3 star standard hotel on BB basis.
National park permit.
Food & Fuel during the trek and base camp during the expedition period
Staff: Base camp 1 Guide, 1 Cook, 1 Kitchen boy with helper Kathmandu to Lukla to Kathmandu flights for Member and staffs Equipment allowance, daily allowance for Liaison officer, expedition staffs Expedition insurance for Nepalese staff
Expedition equipment Sleeping Tent, Mattresses, Dining tent, Toilet tent during the expedition
Local transportation in Kathmandu (airport to hotel to airport) Our office service charge Package Price Excludes

Personal equipment for climbing
Personal Insurance of Climber
Climbing food, Gas & stove.
Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu
Radio Permit,
Climbing Sherpa,
Personal expenses
Bar Bills, Tips.
Note: - Above day-to-day Itinerary schedule can be changeable, According to our valuable client’s intention and the situation of weather’s etc.

 

 

Thanking you with best regards

 

www.himalayatravelclub.com

 

 

EASTER HOLIDAYS SPECILA 2008

you are welcome to vitis Tibet from mail line China and as well as Club of Himalaya Trekking and Travels base in Nepal can Arrange you all package to Tibt and also Train Ticket connection To Lasha the Holy ans old city in Tibet.

• www.himalayatravelclub.com

 

Trekking To Manaslu Himalaya

"24 Nights 25 Days Nepal" ( Kathmandu Gorkha & Manasalu Trekking )

Itinerary

Pristine HIMALAYA views, rich culture and genuine adventure sum up the trek experience to the base of Mt. Manasalu. Opened in 1992, this area offers a combination of rich culture heritage, unsurpassed beauty and biological diversity. Beginning in Gorkha, home of the celebrated Gorkha soldiers, visit the ancient palace of King Prithivi Narayan Shah. Soon after civilisation fades and we glimpse ancient villages, observing the simple agricultural habits of its people. From here, begin your ascent through the Gandaki River valley, fed by innumerable rivers and waterfalls and plunge into its bathing pools. From here, the strenuous section begins and yaks begin to outnumber people in a rocky landscape. In Samagoan (3450m.), visit the glacial green lake of Birendra, before crossing into mystic Samdo, a mere 15 km from the Tibetan border. Here, Tibetan monks inhabit sacred monasteries. There, combined with the views of Tibetan plateaux against stark white Himalayas makes this a truly spiritual place. Continuing, more monasteries await you in Larkya Bazaar, along with your biggest challenge - crossing Larkya pass. Snow covered peaks reaching over 6500 mt, demand your utmost respect as you are crossing, quite literally, the top of the world. The relaxing descent will take you through alpine, tropical areas, bursting with ferns, bamboo's, pine, waterfalls and aqua-blue green lakes laced with cotton-white beaches. Finally, the Manasalu will disappear behind you as you descend to Beshishar (832m.). This 3 week's excursion will leave you with a sense of peace and respect for the people of Nepal and its ecological wonders.

Day 01

Arrive Kathmandu Arrive Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel

Day 02

Kathmandu Sightseeing 1/2 Day sightseeing to Monkeys Temple and trekking permit arrangements. O/N in Kathmandu.

Day 03

Kathmandu -Gorkha

Day 04

Gorkha - Khanchok

Day 05

Khanchok - Arughat

Day 06 to 09

Arughat - Jagat

Day 10

Jagat - Nyak

Day 11

Nyak - Gap

Day 12

Gap - Cho

Day 13 to 15

Cho - Sama Gompa ( and explore around Manasalu Base Camp and Sama Village )

Day 16

Manasalu Base Camp - Yak Kharka

Day 17

Yak Kharka - Bimdakothi

Day 18

Bimdakothi - Tilje

Day 19

Tilje - Chamje

Day 20

Chamje - Naya Gaon

Day 21

Naya Gaon - Beshishar

Day 22

Beshishar - Kathmandu
Drive to Kathmandu.

Day 23

Kathmandu Drive to Bhaktapur, Patan and Kathmandu for your sightseeing tours. The Kathmandu Valley consists of three main cities of great historic and culture interest: Kathmandu, Lalitpur (Patan) and Bhaktapur. The valley covers an area of 218 sq. miles and is situated 1310m above sea level.

Day 24

Kathmandu
Free day on your own in Kathmandu

Day 25

Departure After breakfast drive to airport fly to your onward destination.

 

PleasE contact us here info@himalayatravelclub.com

or plamsal@wlink.com.np

****************************

Himalayan Travellers Club Tours & Travel

At least 25 Maoists were killed in crossfire between the activists of the Maoist affiliated Madheshi Mukti Morcha and the agitating Madhesi People's Rights Forum (MPRF) Wednesday afternoon in Rautahat headquarters Gaur.

District Police Office Rautahat confirmed that the people were killed in the exchange of fire while a dozen more were injured at Rice Mills area in the district at around 2:30 this afternoon.

"The clashes between the two parties ensued after they met at the same venue to stage their mass gatherings," Superintendent of Police Ram Kumar Khanal told ekantipur over the phone. 

According to Khanal, 13 died at the scene of the clash while a further 12 bodies were found at Hajmonia and Mudbalawa VDCs in the district this evening.

He said that some two dozen people were injured in the incident and that a dozen critically injured have been taken to a hospital in Birgunj.

None of the deceased has yet been identified, the official said.

 

 

 

 

Trekking To Jumla & Rara Lake "20 Nights 21 Days

Nepal" ( Kathmandu, Rara Trek, Bardiya National Park & Nagarkot )

Itinerary

Jumla & Rara lie in the remote Karnali region, north-west of Kathmandu. The region is made-up of long ridges covered with temperate forests and alpine pastures enclosing high valleys. Summer rainfall is low, but winter snow can be heavy and persistent. Since the region is fairly high and free from monsoon thunder-storms, the summer season is ideal for trekking. Winters are cold, but the autumn seasons trekking is rewarded with a profusion of alpine flowers.

Day 01

Arrive Kathmandu
Arrive Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel

Day 02

Kathmandu
Sightseeing 1/2 Day sightseeing to Monkeys Temple and trekking permit arrangements. O/N in Kathmandu.

Day 03

Kathmandu - Nepalgunj
After noon flight to Nepalgunj. O/N at Hotel Batika. (B/B)

Day 04

Nepalgunj - Jumla
Fly to Jumla. Jumla town is in a delightful valley and here are the highest limits of paddy cultivation. The town is the administrative headquarters of the entire Karnali zone and Jumla district.

Day 04

Jumla - Danphe Langa

From Jumla there are two tracks to Rara. Normally people trek through lower route. The trail follows the Tila river, passing through fields and pine forest. Arrive Uthugaon, the trail ascends up the Gursini Khola valley. Arrive Padmara passing through a deep forest of pine, spruce and firs. The climb continues in forest over the pass at 3400m and descends to Danfelanga. Overnight stop at the other side of Danfelanga.

Day 05

Danfelanga - Chautha
The trail descend passing through fir, birch, walnut and bamboo forest. After crossing a bridge we start to climb and arrive Bhara (classic Tibetan style village) and then descend to Chautha.

Day 06

Chautha - Dhotu
The trail climbs to Gurchilanga pass ascending through forest with a few local teahouses and treeless meadow half way to the pass.

Day 07

Dhotu - Rara lake (3040 m.)

It is a short, pleasant trek with fine views to the north. From Dhotu, take a trail turning West that traverses a steep north-facing slope. After crossing a stretch of fields, climb a small spur and descend to the stream. Cross the bridge and climb up to the hamlet of Jhari 2500m. It takes two hours to reach Jhari from Pina. From Jhari, ascend west along a ridge for about 700 meters to reach a low saddle in another two hours. The Large Rara lake is visible directly north of this saddle. From here, it is a pleasant descent to the meadows on the south side of the lake. The former village site of Rara (3040m.) on the north side is two hours walk along the western bank of the lake. Rara area was designated a National Park in 1975. There is much wild life, including acquiatic birds and rich forest around this large lake at a height of 2980 meters. One may spend a day or two in the Rara area. A more interesting return trip may be a different route

Day 08

Rara Lake
Explore around Rara Lake and relaxing day.

Day 09

Rara - Ghorasain (3271 m.)
After 15 minutes walk from Rara the trail ascends all the way to Gurchimara at 3710m. Then the trail descends to Gossain.

Day 10

Ghorasain - Sinja (2438 m.)
A more interesting trail with better scenic views is to climb Lumsa. Arrive on the top and descend to Sinja the Thakuri village.

Day 11

Sinja - Jaljala Chaur (3350m.)
Most of the trek is through forest of pine, birch and oak, as well as a few scattered houses and fields of barley and corn. Then the trail makes a steep climb to Jaljala chour.

Day 12

Chere Chaur - Jumla
Keep climbing through forest to yet another meadow, just below the ridge at 3510m, then a pleasant descent to Jumla

Day 14

Jumla Nepalgunj - Bardiya National Park Tharu village/culture tour

Day 15

Bardiya National Park
Whole day walking Safari to view and swim with Gangetic dolphins.

Day 16

Bardiya National Park
Exploration of tiger territory and Elephant-back safari.

Day 17

Bardiya - Nepalgunj - Kathmandu
Bird watching & Visit King Mahendra Trust " Orphan Watch" programme.

Day 18

Departure After breakfast transfer to Kathmandu International Airport & depart

 

WHITE WATER RAFTING

Trisuli River: 1 to 2 days

Kali Gandaki: 3 to 4 Days

Sunkoshi 8 to 9 days

Bhotekoshi: 2 Days

Karnali: 12 Days

Marsyangdi: 6 Days

Tamur: 11 Days

..........................

Koirala raises refugee issue with Bhutanese PM

Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala held discussions with his Bhutanese counterpart Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk on the sidelines of the ongoing 14th SAARC summit, in Indian capital New Delhi, Wednesday morning.

According to reports, the duo focused their discussions on the Bhutanese refugee problem.

Prime Minister Koirala has urged his Bhutanese counterpart to resolve the refugee impasse at the earliest.

Bhutanese Prime Minister Khandu Wangchuk said that his government is positive towards resolving the refugee issue. He also assured of resumption of the ministerial level talks between the two countries to resolve the refugee impasse.

More than 108,000 Bhutanese refugees are languishing in seven UNHCR-administered camps in eastern Nepal since 1990s. 15 rounds of ministerial-level talks between Nepal and Bhutan have failed to resolve the impasse.

Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Sahana Pradhan also held discussions with Indian Foreign Minisiter Pranab Mukherjee about the Bhutanese refugee issue.

Reports say Pradhan urged Indian foreign minister for India's help in resolving the refugee crisis.