Nepal - Introduction

INTRODUCTION

Nepal is one of the richest countries in the world in terms of bio-diversity due to its unique geographical position and latitudinal variation. The elevation of the country ranges from 60m above sea level to the highest point on earth, Mt. Everest at 8,848 m, all within a distance of 150 km with climatic conditions ranging from sub-tropical to arctic. This wild variation fosters an incredible variety of ecosystems, the greatest mountain range on earth, thick tropical jungles teeming with a wealth of wildlife, thundering rivers, forested hills and frozen valleys. Within this spectacular geography is also one of the richest cultural landscapes anywhere. The country is a potpourri of ethnic groups and sub-groups who speak over 93 languages and dialect. Nepal offers an astonishing diversity of sightseeing attractions and adventure opportunities found nowhere else on earth. And you can join in the numerous annual festivals that are celebrated throughout the year in traditional style highlighting enduring customs and beliefs.  Thus Nepal is a destination of infinite charm and diversity – the visitor’s dream-come-true.

Nepal stretches 145 - 241 kms north to south and & 850 kms east to west with and lan area of 147,181 sq. kms.  This landlocked nation is positioned between two Asian giants; China in the North and India to the east, west & south. At latitudes 26 & 30 degrees north & longitudes 80 & 88 degrees east, Nepal is topographically divided into three regions; the Himalaya to the north, the hills consisting of Mahabharat range & Churia hills in the middle and the Terai plains to the south. Elevations are varied in the kingdom. The highest point is Mt. Everest (8850m) and the lowest point at Jhapa district (67m). Altitude generally increases as one travels south to north.

Nepal is 5 hours 45 minutes ahead of GMT & 15 minutes ahead of Indian Standard Time. 

Language & People

The official language in Nepal is Nepali. The people in most of the city understand English while the people in the tourism trade are well versed in the language. The country is a collection of more than 61 ethnic groups & sup-groups and has over 70 different languages & dialects.

Climate & average monthly Temperature & Rainfall

Though Nepal has 4 distinct seasons, it can be divided broadly into two, monsson and dry.  Mid June to September is hot and humid while rest of the year is comparatively dry.  Due to the steep togopraghy the climatic condition varies in diffent regions of the country.  The Terai, in the southern plains is the hottest part of the country with summer temperature upto 40C.  While midhills have mild weather with warm and sunny summers and cool winters, the northern Himlayan Range harbours alpine climate with cool summers to freezing winters.  The Kathmandu valley has a pleasant weather with midrange temperature both in summer and winter.

Average Temperatures

Money, Currency regulations & Credit cards

Nepalese currency is called Rupees which is divided into 100 paisas and the currency sign is Rs.  The paper currency comes in a denomination of 1000, 500, 100, 25, 20, 10, 5, 2 & 1 Rupees.  Though the coins in several denominations exist Rs. 10, 5, 2, 1 are the much used denominations.  The currency does not have convertibility.

Import of Indian currency by any tourist except Indian nationals is strictly prohibited. A foreign exchange encashment receipt must be obtained for all foreign currency exchanged and it is possible to exchange back into foreign currency upon production of exchange receipts at the time of departure at the airport. Credit cards like American Express, Master& Visa cards are widely accepted at all major hotels, shops & restaurants.

Electricity

All cities and towns in Nepal have electricity and rural electrification.  Village in the upper reaches of the mountains are still devoid of electricity and their eleftrification is underway through mini hydel projects are currently underway. The rating is 240-220 volts AC & 50. Load shedding is frequently experienced in Nepal but mostly during dry months only.

Holidays

Saturday is the weekly holiday.  The governmet office hours are from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM in the summer and 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM in the winter.  Most of the banks and businesses work from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Most of the shops and Tibetan refugee camps remain closed on Saturdays. All museums remain closed on Tuesdays and government holidays.