Top 10 Travel Agency of Nepal

There are many Travel Agency in Nepal.Travel Agency are growing day by day as number of Tourist are also increasing day by day.
Nepal has huge scope in the field of Travel and Tourism.

Columbus. is a destination management travel & trekking company holding air ticket stocks of major domestic and international airlines and offers a comprehensive travel service to Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, India, Sri Lanka and Thailand. Its corporate office is based in Kamal Pokhari, Kathmandu. We specialize in cultural tours, treks, peak climbing, mountain expedition and other adventure sports in the Himalayan countries of Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, India and tours to Sri Lanka & Thailand. The company is managed by Mr. Pramod Dahal who is a pioneer in the travel industry with over a decade of experience.

Mount Everest

Mt. EVEREST (8,848 m) Highest peak on earth

Everest or upper Khumbu Region, the second most popular trekking area in Nepal, is the home to the world's highest mountains including Mt. Everest (8850m), Cho Oyn (8153m), Makalu(8470m), Ama Dablam (6856m) and many other countless peaks. The region lure thousand of adventure seekers explore and experience high mountain valleys, high passes, Buddhist culture and stunning Sherpa villages on such high altitudes. Trekking to this region makes the travelers feel satisfied being at the base of Mt. Everest – the highest mountain in the world.

For a detailed itinerary and further information please click here or alternatively call an expert on: +977-1-4445299

Hotels in Nepal

We maintain excellent relations with all hotels in Nepal. Some of our recommended hotels are listed below;

 

5 Star Hotel

Hotel Del Annapurna Situated at King's Way, the hotel is in the vicinity of embassies, consulates, and airline office in close proximity.   Hotel Yak & Yeti Hotel Yak and Yeti, is a premier five-star deluxe oasis in the heart of Kathmandu, Nepal.   Dwarika's Heritage Hotel Dwarika's Hotel is a unique place in South Asia. It is a living example that tourism need not destroy heritage and the environment.   Hotel Soaltee Crown Plaza Soaltee Crowne Plaza Kathmandu is considered a legendary landmark within the Kathmandu cityscape.   Hotel Everest International The Hotel Everest has been Nepal's leitmotif and symbol of luxury for decades.   Hotel Malla Superbly located between the Royal Palace and Kathmandu's fashionable tourist district, Thamel, in the heart of the city.

4 Star Hotel

Hotel Vaishali Vaishali offers guests a choice of 95 centrally Air conditioned elegant rooms with 8 splendid suites   Hotel Himalaya Hotel Himalaya offers guest the best comfort on your trip to Nepal. It is an excellent site for mountain viewing from within the city.   Hotel Shankar Hotel Shanker is a palace built at the turn of the century by a Rana Maharaja with a penchant for French architecture, international cuisine and Eastern hospitality.

3 Star Hotel

Hotel Grand The valley abounds in superb specimens of pagodas, stupas and palatial buildings. But one building stands above the rest, in the capital city: THE GRAND HOTEL - OFFICIALLY THE TALLEST HOTEL IN NEPAL.   Hotel Gangjong Hotel Gangjong, the only vegetarian hotel in the whole of Nepal has an individual style inspired by Tibetan culture, artistic tradition and a fine craftsmanship.

2 Star Hotel

Hotel Harati In the heart of ancient city of Kathmandu. which is just five minutes away from Thamel and Kathmandu Durbar Square. It is seven kms from International Airport.   Hotel Marshyangdi Hotel Marshyangdi has been recognized as the best Deluxe hotel in Thamel which provides all the modern facilities with warm Nepalese hospitality. And we assure you that it is"YOUR CHOICE OF COMFORT"

1 Star Hotel

Hotel Thamel Hotel Thamel is a deluxe Government Register hotel in centre of Kathmandu. You can have everything here in the hotel, like restaurants, shops, store. Hotel Thamel has 43 rooms, all attached with private bathroom, TV, direct dial telephone, air-conditioning.

Trekking Arrangement in Nepal

There are different approaches to trekking in Nepal and the choice depends on time available, budget, experience and personal preference.Some of the travel agencies abroad in collaboration with the Nepalese trekking agencies book trekking packages for Nepal in advance. Trekkers who are alone or who do not have much time can book with these overseas agencies. One can also contact trekking agencies by mail, internet or contact them personally on arrival in Nepal. There are quite a few government recognized trekking agencies, which have professional staff to handle trekking activities. Columbus Treks and Expedition, a fully equipped trek primarily consists of essential logistical arrangements including porters, guide, cook, food, tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, transport to and from trekking starting points, flight arrangement, permits, and staff insurance and so on. We also provide a choice of itineraries and necessary information on trekking health care etc. The cost of an all inclusive trek ranges from US $ 25:00 to US $ 100:00 per person per day depending upon the quality of service, number of days and number of persons in the package. This style of trekking is relatively expensive compared to that of backpacking but a few extra dollars guarantees comfort and security eliminates time-consuming ordeal of organization and ensures a trouble free holiday. There are limited areas where an individual can undertake a backpacking type of trek.

A companion guide is helpful in the remote wilderness and is enjoyable to talk to on the route. It is strongly advised not to employ free-lance guides or the services of any agency not recognized by the government.

List of Clothing Equipment & Personal Effects

Lightweight walking boots. Also bring spare laces. A pair of track-shoes. To wear in the camp at night or when boot is wet. Warm Jacket. Fiber fill or down should be adequate (necessary during winter). Woolen shirt or thick sweater. A rain proof jacket with hood or a poncho. A pair of lightweight/heavyweight trousers. Jeans are unsuitable to wear on treks. Thermal underwear (excellent to sleep at night). A track -suit. 1-2 pair of loose fitting shorts/skirts. 2-4 cotton shirts. A woolen hat to wear in the morning and at night. A pair of gloves, leather with lining and woolen are best. Two pairs of thick woolen socks.

Equipment

Duffle bag or kit bag to carry gear while trekking. Day pack, this is a small rucksack to carry personal requirement for the day e.g. toilet items, camera, film, towel , soap etc. Water bottle. Snow glasses and sunglasses. Small head lamp or torch. Snow gaiter essential during winter. An umbrella, can be used as a walking stick. Reading materials, camera & film, note books, diary, pen/pencil, small air pillow for head rest. Thermal rest (optional) an inflatable sleeping mat, trekking map, adequate quantities of passport photograph. Personal medical supplies.

Money Matter

Nepal has modern banking facilities and some of the International Banks have their own offices in Kathmandu. Almost all foreign currencies along with credit cards are accepted in Nepal. All visitors are required to exchange their money through the bank or authorized agents. In Kathmandu banks with money exchange counter are found everywhere and most hotels also have exchange counter. These facilities to change money are quicker and more convenient. It is generally not possible to change foreign currency/travelers cheques (except in Namche Bazaar, Jomsom, Salleri, Okhaldhunga,Pokhara etc.) in the mountains. One must therefore change required money for the trek always ask for small denominations and be careful of torn banknotes. The people in the village may not accept them.

Appeal to Trekkers and Nature Lovers

In your trek, you will be exposed to many village schools. Please communicate your conservation ideas, knowledge and experience with the local school teachers so that a multiplier effect of conservation messages could be radiated to all the children. If possible, please also try to make the children know how to respect nature and natural resources. Never encourage children to beg. It might give you momentary satisfaction but the begging child could also turn a professional beggar tomorrow.

Try to be friendly with your porters & guides. You will enjoy your trip more.

While taking photographs be sure that you are not intruding onto public privacy.

Respect the villagers and their traditions. In return, they will give you warm hospitality.

When you trek, ultimately you enter wilderness. There you are alone with your porters and the fragile nature. The slightest negligence and misunderstanding on your part can directly have a jarring cumulative impact on the delicate balance of nature. Please do not spoil this natural heritage by thoughtless negligence.

Carry enough kerosene or fuel for your cooking. Never buy fuel wood from the villagers, it will encourage cutting down more trees and stocking them unnecessarily.

We discourage the use of camp - fires, if you really need one, you can ask your porters to collect dead branches and twigs from the ground. Be sure the fire is out and the refuse is buried before leaving the campsite.

Never buy any wildlife trophies animal products from the local poachers.

Do not collect any wild flowers, plants, fossils, orchids, rocks, etc. unless you have the permission from the concerned office for scientific research. Cutting trees, shooting wildlife and fishing without licenses is strictly prohibited. Always camp at the prescribed sites. If there is not arrangement as such, then camp on open ground or on the bank of a river. Do not camp inside a bush cutting away branches of trees.

Never pollute the clear mountain water or litter the path with cigarette butts, tin cans, toilet papers etc. Please bury them. Do not mark initials on trees and rocks. Nature is more beautiful when left under filed by human hands.

In some areas, local communities have established their own conservation practices. Please make an effort to understand them and to observe them.

Finally, we sincerely request you to enlighten your porters, sherpas, guides, villagers to respect nature and how to conserve it. With your help, our natural beauty will be alive for generations. In turn, Nepal's gift to you will be vibrant living memories.

Trekking Season in Nepal

Trekking in Nepal can be undertaken through out the year. There are four seasons in Nepal. Each season has its distinct attraction to offer. The seasons are classified as follows:

Autumn (Sept- Nov.) This season offers excellent weather and tantalizing mountain views.

Winter (Dec- Feb) This season is noted for occasional snowfall only at higher elevations. Hence, it is ideal for trekking at lower elevations, generally below 3000 meters.

Spring (Mar-May) Different varieties of wild flowers, specially the rhododendrons make the hillside above 5000 meters a haunting paradise during this season. It is mildly warm at lower elevations, higher elevations over 4000 meters the mountain views are excellent, and temperature is quite moderate.

Summer (Jun-Aug) Summer months, continues up to mid September making travel wet and warm. These times are blessed for the keen botanist as the higher valleys and meadows blossom with flowers and lush vegetation.

It is recommended to carry insect repellent when trekking during summer months.

Medical Matters & Advice

Trekking in Nepal need not be considered risky affair as far as your health is concerned. Nevertheless, preventive measures such as a thorough medical check up and inoculations before you start trekking can save you from unexpected hazards. Since the remote places of Nepal are not supplied with necessities that are essential for modern medical facilities and as the rescue and evacuation are measured in days, it is imperative to make a comprehensive First Aid Box consisting of basic drugs and accessories as part of the paraphernalia for trekking. Various trekking guidebooks and the pamphlet published by the Himalayan Rescue Association give you detailed information on a complete list of medical supplies. These guidebooks are easily available in the bookshops of Kathmandu. In case of serious illness or injury, prompt evacuation to Kathmandu is the best remedy. Modern dentistry is unknown in the hills of Nepal, so it is advised to have a check-up before departure from home. Tooth fillings sometimes loosen in cold temperatures and at high altitudes, so it is recommended to have them checked.

Fitness

All trekking demands a level of fitness that will enable one to put a good day's walking, up hill and down. Most treks should not be taken to gain more than 500 meters in one day above 3000 meters. There should be plenty of time during the day to cover this distance, so the physical exertion though quite strenuous at times, is not sustained. The best preparation for trekking is cycling, swimming, jogging, squash, tennis and long walks involving up and down hill. Good physical conditioning will probably help for the maximum enjoyment of the treks.

Altitude sickness

Altitude sickness, often known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is particularly a important medical consideration while trekking in Nepal. Altitude sickness means the effect of altitude on those who ascend too rapidly to elevations above 3000 meters. The initial symptoms of AMS are as following:

Nausea Vomiting Loss of appetite Insomnia/sleeplessness Persistent headache Dizziness, light heatedness, confusion Disorientation, drunken gait Weakness, fatigue, lassitude, heavy legs Slight swelling of hands and face Reduced urine output

These symptoms are to be taken very seriously. In case of appearance of any of the above symptoms, any further ascent should be reconsidered; otherwise, more problems that are serious can occur which can even cause death sometimes within a few hours; the only cure for the altitude sickness is to descend to a lower elevations immediately. Acclimatization by ascending to no more than 300 to 500 meters per day above 3000 meters and the proper amount of rest are the best methods for prevention of AMS.

Literature and pamphlet published by Himalayan Rescue Association consists of detailed information on AMS. The Central Immigration Office and all trekking agencies in Kathmandu distribute this pamphlet free of cost. Since these medical also give information on the list of suggested documents supplies for trekking it is a compulsory item for every trekkers medical kit.

Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA)

HRA is a Nepalese voluntary organization registered with His Majesty's Government to run a mountain rescue service in the mountain tourist areas. The association's major role is the prevention and treatment of mountain sickness. A team of foreign doctors undertakes the association's medical research work at present. The Kathmandu office and information centre of the HRA is located at Thamel. The HRA information centre has expert and up to date information on all aspects of altitude sickness. All those intending to trek above 10000 ft. are advised to visit the information centre.

Festival of Nepal

Festivals

Festivals are an integral part of life of the Nepalese people. Festivals have religious or secular significance. They effectively bind together the people of diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs into one nation. Most Nepalese festivals are related to different Hindu and Buddhist gods and goddesses and they are celebrated on such days consecrated them by religion and tradition. The Nepalese year is full of festivals which are celebrated according to the lunar calendar. Some of the major and interesting festivals are listed below:

Mahashivaratri

The night of Lord Shiva is observed in February- March. It is celebrated in honor of Lord Shiva. A great religious fair takes place in the Pashupatinath Temple and thousands of people from all over Nepal and India flock the Temple to worship Lord Shiva.

Phagu Purnima /Holi

This festival takes place on the full moon day in the month of February – March. This is a colorful occasion when people smear each other with color powdered and splash water balloons onto one another.

Nepalese New Year

The day usually falls in the second week of April. It is observed as a national holiday. People celebrate it with a great pomp and show. On this occasion, Bisket Jatra is held in the city of Bhaktapur.

Ghode Jatra

Ghode Jatra or Horse festival celebrated between March and April is one of the exciting festivals celebrated in Kathmandu. Horse race and other sports take place at the Tundikhel parade ground on this day. In the other parts of the city, various deities are carried to a shoulder-high on palanquin (Khat) with the accompaniment of traditional music.

Rato Machchendranath Rath Yatra

Celebrated in May- June, this festival is the biggest socio- cultural event of Patan. The wheeled chariot of a diety known as Bungdyo or Rato Machchendranath is made at Pulchowk and dragged through the city of Patan in several stages till it reaches the destined location (Lagankhel). The grand final of the festival is called the 'Bhoto Dekhaune' or the 'showing of vest'.

Janai Purnima

This festival is celebrated in August in which Hindu people change sacred threads and take a holy bath and receive yellow threaded bands in their wrist from Brahmin priests.

Gai Jatra

Celebrated in July- August, it is a carnival that lasts for eight days, dancing; singing, comedy and anything that causes mirth and laughter which are its highlights.

Krishnasthami

Celebrated in July –August, it marks the birthday of Lord Krishna. On this day, impressive ceremonies are conducted at the Krishna Temple in Patan and at Changu Narayan.

Teej

Celebrated in August –September, it is a Hindu festival celebrated by women. Dancing, folk song and the red color of women's wedding saris dominate the days of Teej. Women observe a fast and flock to Shiva temples where married ones pray for happy conjugal life and unmarried ones for a right husband.

Indra Jatra

Celebrated in August –September, the festival of Indra, the God of Rain, is observed with great enthusiasm in the Kathmandu valley. The festival lasts for eight days. The chariot of Kumari, the living Goddess, is taken out in procession through the main streets of Kathmandu. The festival is specially noted of the masked dancers almost every evening.

Dashain (Durga Puja)

Nepal's biggest annual festival that lasts for 15 days, finishing on the full-moon day of late September or early October, and there are a number of important rituals right through these days. Dashain is also known as Durga Puja since the festival celebrates the victory of the goddess Durga over the forces of evil in the guise of the buffalo demon Mahisasur. Since Durga is a bloodthirsty goddess, the festival is marked by the biggest animal sacrifice in the various Hindu temples and in the home to please the Goddess Durga.

Tihar (Deepawali)

Known as the festival of lights, Tihar is celebrated for five days. It is observed in the month of October or early November. In this festival the people worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. In other words, this festival is meant for life and prosperity.

Chhath

Maithili - speaking people mainly celebrate this festival in the terai region all over south of Nepal. It is observed in the sixth day following the festival of Lakshmi Puja or Deepawali. Men and women take a dip in the local river, lakes and worship the rising and setting sun. This festival lasts for four days followed by fasting, praying and singing hymns.

Lhosar

It is the most impressively observed festival by the Sherpas and Tibetan communities. It falls in the month of February or March. The people organize folk songs and dance on this occasion. These dances can be observed in Khumbu Helambu and other northern regions of Nepal and also at Boudhanath in Kathmandu .

Buddha Jayanti

On full moon day the Lord Buddha's birth enlightenment and salvation are applauded throughout the valley with celebrations. On this day, people reach the Stupas before dawn, go around them and give offering to many Buddha images there.

Adventure Tours

Bungee Jump

Nepal offers the third highest Bungee Jump in the world. The jump is a 160 meter drop from the platform into the gorge of the roaring Bhote Koshi River. The site is situated near the Nepal-Tibet border amidst spectacular mountain scenery, lush vegetations and jagged rocks which gives the ultimate adrenaline experience.

Ultra Light Aircraft

Ultra Light Aircraft in Nepal offers a scenic view and the ability to enjoy the freedom of towering above the earth and gliding through the sky with a bird’s eye view. One can fly above the twisty rivers, breathtaking valleys, ancient, culturally, rich and diverse villages and dense forests at the backdrop of the Himalayan mountain range. The aircraft is a small light weight airplane with an engine and glide through the air almost like a hang glider once it is started.

Paragliding

It is truly wonderful and fulfilling experience for the adventure seekers. One can experience unparallel scenic grandeur as you share airspace with Himalayan griffin vultures, eagles & kites while floating over the villages, monasteries, temples, lakes and jungles with the fantastic view of the majestic Himalayas .

Mountain Biking

Exploring Nepal on a bike is a fantastic way to experience the local culture and way of life. It allows you to get off the beaten track and explore rural farming areas, national parks and hill resorts. For the adrenaline seeker around Kathmandu, Pokhara and a newly opened heritage trail in Langtang could be a good option

Jungle Safari in Chitwan

Jungle safari in Nepal is one of the extraordinary experiences and opportunities to explore a variety of flora and fauna, the life styles and colorful tradition of the indigenous local people. One can walk into the dense jungle on foot or by jeep with an experienced nature guide or on elephant back and dugout canoe. We offer Jungle safari tours mainly to Chitwan National Park, Bardia National Park, Parsa Wildlife Reserve and Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

Rafting

Nepal has earned a reputation as one of the best destinations in the world for white water rafting. Nepal’s thundering rivers coming from the high Himalayas churned with extra ferocity to provide some of the fastest and most challenging trip for rafting in the world. The ever changing landscapes through which they pass reveal an amazing diversity of flora and fauna. Our river guides expertly glide the boat along the rivers whilst enjoying all the wild and wacky rapids.

Rivers in Nepal are graded on a scale of I-V according to their size, the intensity of their rapids and difficulties.

Name of the River Duration Rivers Grade Distance on river From Kathmandu Trishuli 1/2  days 2 to 3+ 38 km. 3 hrs drive Kali Gandaki 3 days 3 to 4+ 55 km. 200+105 km Bhote Koshi 2 days 3 to 5 20km. 95 km Marshyangdi 5 days 3 to 5 47 km. 8 hrs Karnali 10 days 3 to 5 180 km. 19 hrs drive Sun Koshi 10 days 3 to 4+ 270 km. 3 hrs drive Arun 12 days 3 to 4+ 70 km. 18 hrs drive Tamur 11 days 4 to 5 120 km. 19 hrs drive

Tours & Sightseeing

Inside the Kathmandu valley

Kathmandu the small mountain sheltered valley; the arrival and visit point for the visitors is the historical and architectural centerpoint of Nepal which was crowned with the title of "Capital City" after the great unification of Nepal in 1768 AD. Nevertheless its small size it has got a bountiful treasure of spots listed in the World Heritage Sites. The three Durbar Squares of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur ( 3 districts of the Valley ) are renowned to the arena of tourism for being a masterpiece in art and architecture. The old carved houses , narrow lanes, frequently encountering ancient temples and moreover adorned by the rare and attracting cultures and festivals enlists Kathmandu as "a focal destination" for sightseeing. The valley forwards itself to the panoramic views of the captivating Himalayas, sequestered jungles and also to the exotic hiking corners

Kathmandu Durbar Square

This one of the most popular tourist destination is enlisted in World Heritage Sites. Clustered around the central Durbar Square are the old Royal Palace (Hanuman Dhoka), numerous interesting temples, the Kumari Chowk or Kumari Bahal (House of the Living Goddess) and the Kasthamandap (House of Wood) from which Kathmandu derived its present name. An inquisitive exploration in the Durbar Square reveals the ancient art and architecture of Nepal which has proved to be a masterpiece to everyone accepting its genuineness.

Pashupatinath (World Heritage Site):

Pashupatinath is one of the holiest Hindu shrines in the world. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is built in the familiar Pagoda style. Chronicles indicate the temple’s existence prior to 400 A.D. This holy place is picturesque collection of temples and shrines. All the dying persons are brought to Pashupatinath for cremation. Only the Hindus are allowed to go inside.

Swayambhunath/Monkey temple (World Heritage Site):

The Swayambhu Stupa crowns a hillock to the west of Kathmandu .A massive white dome surrounded by a 13 stage spire, the stupa is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Nepal. It is said to be 2000 years old. Its origin is linked to the founding of the Kathmandu valley, draining the water out of the lake by Bodhisattva Manjushree.

Boudhanath (World Heritage Site):

It is the world’s biggest stupa located about 8 kilometers from the city center. This colossal Stupa is known by the name of Boudhanath, the god of wisdom. It is difficult to assign a period to it, as some believe that it was built during the reign of either Shiva Dev or Anshu Verma in the 7th century A.D. Boudhanath attracts the Buddhist pilgrims from all over the world.

Changunarayan (World Heritage Site):

The temple of Changunarayan is richly decorated with sculptures and carvings and is said to be the oldest pagoda style temple in the valley. The temple, built around the third century, is decorated by some of the best samples of stone, wood and metal craft. The courtyard has many other temples such as that of Kiloswar, Shiva, Chhinnamasta Devi and other figures like Garuda and different images of Vishnu.

Budhanilkantha:

About 8 km north of Kathmandu, at the base of Shivapuri hill is a remarkable colossal statue of Lord Vishnu, reclining on the bed of snakes. This is one of the masterpieces of stone statue in the middle of small pond and seems to float in water.

Patan Durbar Square (World Heritage Site):

It is an enchanting mélange of Palace buildings, artistic courtyards and graceful pagoda temples. This square was the former Royal Palace complex which was the center of Patan’s religious and social life, and houses a museum containing an array of bronze status and religious monuments.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square(World Heritage Site):

It is one of the third important historic cities in the Kathmandu valley. It lies 14 km. to the east of Kathmandu and covers an area of 4 sq miles. Its Durbar Square is a symphony of art and architecture belonging to medieval period. The center piece is the 55- window palace overlooking the Square which is paved over with bricks. Among other monuments around the Durbar Square are worth visiting

Outside Kathmandu Valley

Dhulikhel:

Dhulikhel is a scenic and ancient town situated 30 km east of Kathmandu on the side of the Arniko Rajmarga. From here one can have a complete panoramic view of the snowy ranges from east to west. From the main town an excursion to Namoboudha stupa is highly recommended.

Pokhara

Situated 200km. west of Kathmandu, it is Nepal’s second most popular tourist destination. The city is overshadowed by a massive wall of the Himalayas and dominated by the towering peaks of the Annapurna ranges. The most impressive view is the fishtailed pinnacle of Mt. Machhapuchhare (6,977 m) and the Phewa Lake. This rural town is also the starting point for the most famous treks in the Annapurna region.

Nagarkot:

A beautiful hill station is situated 32 km east of the Kathmandu at an altitude of 2,175 m above sea level. The place is famous for the view of Himalayan range, stretching from Dhaulagiri in the west and Everest to Kanchanjunga in the east. Nagarkot is also a popular site for sunrise and sunset viewing.

Daman:

Daman at an altitude of 2,400m is located 80km. southwest of Kathmandu valley. Daman is famous for the magnificent view of the world's highest mountain ranges. There is a view tower fitted with long- range telescopes.

Gorkha:

It is situated 131 km. west of Kathmandu valley at an altitude of 1135m at the end of mountain road that branches north from the Kathmandu- Pokhara Highway at Abu Khaireni. It is the ancestral home of the Shah dynasty and home of the original Gorkha soldiers. Gorkha's centerpiece is the magnificent Gorkha Durbar which is a fort, a palace and a temple with excellent views of the surrounding valleys and the Manaslu range.

Manakamana:

This is also the famous pilgrimage site of Nepal. It lies southeast from Gorkha. Every Hindu and Buddhist makes a pilgrimage trip to Manakamana temple by a Cable Car from the Kurintar and it takes 8 min to reach.

Bandipur:

It is a hilltop town situated midway on the Kathmandu-Pokhara highway at an altitude of 1005m overlooking the Marshyangdi river valley. It offers mountain views, artistic houses and pagoda temples. It has the largest cavern in the country, the Siddha Gupha, which is full of stalactites and stalagmites.

Janakpur:

A great religious place, Janakpur is famous for being the birthplace of Sita, the consort of Lord Ram. There is an artistic marble temple of Sita (Janaki), popularly known as Naulakha Mandir. Religious festival, trade fairs and other festivities are held here on Bivaha Panchami and Ram Navami.

Tansen

Tansen is one of the oldest Newar hill settlement with a rich history and a glorious past. Short excursion of the surrounding if time permits. Tansen is a beautiful town located amidst the grander of the surrounding mountains and is considered one of the most beautiful town in Nepal. This place is modeled as a sister town of Kathmandu. All the important monuments and temples of Kathmandu have been replicated here.It is like being in a Kathmandu perched on a mountain top minus the noise and the congestion. Sightseeing here includes: Visiting the Srinagar hills which offers the best view of the western Himalayas in Nepal.

Lumbini

The birthplace of Lord Buddha lies in the plains south west of Kathmandu. It is a sacred place for Buddhists from all over the world, standing on an equal footing with holy places sacred to other world religions. As millions of Christians look to Jerusalem for inspiration, as millions of Muslims turn to Mecca, so do three hundred million Buddhists visit Lumbini.

Trekking In Nepal

Nepal is one of the best trekking destinations in the world to explore magnificent scenery, rich and ancient cultures and making contact with local villagers and experience their traditional  hospitality. There are mainly three popular trekking regions- Annapurna, Everest and Langtang where one can enjoy the thrills of trekking in the mountains.

Annapurna Region

Annapurna region lies towards the north of central Nepal and is one of the most popular trekking destinations in the country- offering a variety of excellent treks of all grades and styles. The region introduces us Nepal's spectacular diversity at its finest: various tribes and castes, a wide range of terrain wooded alpine pastures from sub-tropical rainforest deep valleys deepest gorge of the world. On the way cross the Thorong La pass (5416m), a challenging ascent and encounter numerous monkeys, birds and flowers.

Everest region

Everest or upper Khumbu Region, the second most popular trekking area in Nepal, is the home to the world's highest mountains including Mt. Everest (8850m), Cho Oyn (8153m), Makalu(8470m), Ama Dablam (6856m) and many other countless peaks. The region lure thousand of adventure seekers explore and experience high mountain valleys, high passes, Buddhist culture and stunning Sherpa villages on such high altitudes. Trekking to this region makes the travelers feel satisfied being at the base of Mt. Everest – the highest mountain in the world.

Langtang Region

This is third most popular trekking region in Nepal that lies just north of Kathmandu. Trekking here offers the opportunities to explore Tibetan style Tamang villages, to climb small peaks and to visit glacial at a comfortable low elevation. This region introduces the trekkers to some of the wildest and most scenic areas of Nepal.

Off The Beaten Track

Trekking into this region offers the serious trekkers an opportunity to explore the country's long preserved secrets: snow- covered glaciers, hidden valleys, medieval villages, eco- system and cultural diversities. Only fully supported camping treks provide access to this remoter region and require special permit. Most of the areas are untouched and remained isolated from the outer world.

Trekking In Nepal

The 800-km stretch of the Nepal Himalaya is the greatest in the world with eight peaks that rise above 8000 m including Mt. Everest. Ever since the country opened its peaks to climbers in 1949, the Nepal Himalaya has become a great theatre of mountaineering activity and the drama of success and failure have provided impetus to thousands of men to the ultimate challenges. The Nepal Himalaya has been an attraction to many people, be they saints philosophers, researchers or adventures.

Columbus Treks & Expedition takes great pleasure to provide entire relevant information and make arrangement of your adventure journey to the highest point of your destination.

Mountains opened for mountaineering Peak opened for foreign expedition:   Name of the peak Height Mountain Region Zone Ama Dablam 6.812 m Khumbu Sagarmatha Annapurna 1 8.091 m Annapurna Gandaki Annapurna 2 7.937 m Annapurna Gandaki Annapurna 3 7.555 m Annapurna Gandaki Annapurna 4 7.525 m Annapurna Gandaki Annapurna South 7.219 m Annapurna Gandaki Api 7.132 m Gurans Mahakali Api West 7.100 m Byash-Rikhi Mahakali Baruntse 7.129 m Barun Koshi Baudha 6.672 m Mansiri Gandaki Chamlang 7.319 m Mahalangur Sagarmatha Cheo Himal 6.820 m Peri Gandaki Chobuje 6.685 m Rolwaling Janakpur Cholatse 6.440 m Khumbu Sagarmatha Cho Oyu 8.201 m Khumbu Sagarmatha Cho Polu 6.711 m Mahalangur Sagarmatha Churen 7.371 m Peri Gandaki Dhampus 6.012 m Mukut Dhaulagiri Dhaulagiri 1 8.167 m Dhawalagiri Dhawalagiri Dhaulagiri 2 7.751 m Dhaulagiri Dhawalagiri Dhaulagiri 3 7.715 m Dhawalagiri Dhawalagiri Dhaulagiri 4 7.661 m Dhawalagiri Dhawalagiri Dhaulagiri 5 7.618 m Dhawalagiri Dhawalagiri Dhaulagiri 6 7.268 m Dhawalagiri Dhawalagiri Dragnag Ri 6.801 m Rolwaling Janakpur Fimkof 6.697 m Saipal Mahakali Fimkof West 6.645 m Saipal Mahakali Ganesh 2 7.111 m Ganesh Bagmati Ganesh 3 (Salasungo) 7.110 m Ganesh Bagmati Ganesh 4 (Pabil) 7.052 m Ganesh Bagmati Ganesh 5 6.986 m Ganesh Bagmati Gangapurna 7.455 m Annapurna Gandaki Gauri Shanker 7.134 m Rolwaling Janakpur Gimigela Chuli 7.350 m Kanchenjunga Mechi Gyajikang 7.038 m Nemjung/Peri Gandaki Himalchuli East 7.893 m Mansiri Gandaki Himalchuli North 7.371 m Mansiri Gandaki Himalchuli West 7.540 m Mansiri Gandaki Himlung Himal 7.126 m Peri Gandaki Hongde 6.556 m Mukut Karnali Jagdula Peak 5.764 m Jagdula Karnali Jannu (Kumbhakarna) 7.710 m Kanchenjunga Mechi Kangbachen 7.903 m Kanchenjunga Mechi Kagmara 5.960 m Kanjiroba Karnali Kande Hiuchuli 6.627 m Patrasi Karnali Kanchenjunga (Main) 8.586 m Kanchenjunga Mechi Kanchenjunga (South) 8.476 m Kanchenjunga Mechi Kangguru 6.981 m Peri Gandaki Kangtega (Kantega) 6.779 m Khumbu Sagarmatha Kanjeralwa 6.612 m Kanjiroba Karnali Kanijiroba (Main Peak) 6.883 m Kanjiroba Karnali Khatang 6.782 m Rolwaling Janakpur Lamjung Himal 6.983 m Annapurna Gandaki Langsisa Ri 6.427 m Jugal Himal Bagmati Langtang Lirung 7.234 m Langtang Bagmati Lhotse 8.516 m Khumbu Sagarmatha Lhotse Shar 8.400 m Khumbu