The Nepalese Traditional Medicine Practitioners

With the aroma and packs of spices and herbs hanging on the ceiling, the traditional medicine practitioners could be found in the old cities petite streets, manifesting their centuries old techniques of traditional medicine. Every morning, one can see people flocking in their shops for medicines holding their quest in finding a remedy for their unknown problem. Within second the practitioners checks the eyes, tongue and other vital status and then forward his statement in related with the treatment. Looking at it from the technical side, the practitioner’s first studies the feasibility of the patient’s body enclosing the symptoms creating a scenario of diagnosis stage, as in Ayurved, disease is regarded as a symptom of imbalance where disease is treated for symptom not for the disease. Then after evaluating the status, the practitioner forwards medicines of mixed herbs with aromatic spices. These doses of spices are supposed to be taken at specific time with maintaining strict diets. Although, for a normal person it’s hard to stand the smell or taste but one cannot quantify the reality of these medicines being free from side effects and on the same hand the relatively low prices have certainly increased its popularity among local’s specially old aged people. The basic ingredients of these medicines are composed of fine herbs and spices that the Ayurvedic researchers gather from the forest and other markets in India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar where the exotic and indigenous herbs are evolving as a good import and export business. In our country, from the ancient time civilization has been adjusted in the cast and creed system where each of the cast has been endowed with specific work for e.g. Chhetri are entrusted as warrior clan, Bahuns are entrusted with religious activities, Baidhayas are entrusted with the medical line etc. The practice of this systematic civilization has not only helped the people to develop specific skills and techniques but on the other hand has given an edge to relate the people to their work class or group. Perfecting their skills to sharpen their knowledge, the generations of practicing and passing have resulted in better opportunity of growth and development in the transcending process. Moreover, practically ruling the formulas of centaury old recipes of herbs and spices, these practitioners learn their skills by working and learning method where generations of cumulative study and detailed research have honed the disease diagnosis process. According to the ancient text and script, Ayurved is considered as "Knowledge of life" where the Mind Body and Soul have been differentiated in the proper form linking it with the nature and stressing nature as the supreme healer. Basically in Ayurved, body is divided into there important forces within the body. The first one is known as Pitta (the force of the sun) which is hot and rules the digestive processes and metabolism. Similarly, the second one is Kapha (likened to the moon, the creator of tides and rhythms) which has a cooling effect and governs the body's organs, fluids and lubricants; and the third one is the Vata (wind) which relates to movement and the nervous system. The adequate balanced of the three is considered to be healthy where as dis-balance in any of the component is considered to bring metabolic changes which triggers in as a symptom of a disease. Though, modernization has exploited the medical industry in gaining a fast reputation but still in the close competition of the faster growing allopathic medicine, the Ayurvedic industry have acclimatizing people consoling the world with the theme of being natural and living naturally. Still today, the Traditional Ayurvedic practitioners survive with the stand of curing diseases like Jaundice, Gastric, Diabetes Mellitus, various types of arthritis and bronchial asthma, aches and other disease where patients are tired to the level of testing allopathic medicine and find traditional herbs and spices more irrefutable. Furthermore, it is believed among the locals that allopathic medicines are quick in action but in long run, the medicine fails to tackle the problem while on the other hand the Ayurvedic medicines take times but cures the disease from root level and it is due to such believe that the traditional medicine practitioner survive with a quest. Growing to the aspect of giving the Ayurved as a status, the Nepal government has escalated to stand the Ayurved Campus for Ayurvedic education in Nepal as in the form of Naradevi Ayurveda Hospital located in Naradevi, which has been catering the needs of the people. It is said that nature holds the power of healing and acclimatizing the nature’s power, the traditional medicine practitioners have prolonged their glorious tradition of serving people in the name of practicing this art of nature to the ultimate level of finding a new existence and survival. By Shreedeep Rayamajhi

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Rani Pokhari or The Queen Pond

Rani Pokhari, the Queen pond is yet another example of Nepali architectural wonder that stages the craftsmanship and endurance of the Nepali Newari style and essence. Like other architectural design, the Rani Pokhari is crafted in a distinct Chaitya style which spreads upon 62 ropanies in the explicit space. It is one of the most enigmatic and mystical spectacle that captivates pedestrian’s attention with its abstract abundance, synchronizing it as the magical wonderland of endless stories and myths. Located in the northern end of Tudikhel, the pond is rectangle in shape and runs its banks roughly through north south and east west. Marking the pond, a Shiva Temple (Balgopaleshwar Mahadev) resides in the center that is connected to the west bank by a straight causeway. The architectural jewel dates back to the 17th centaury Malla reign highlighting the supremacy of the Newari architectural design and craftsmanship of the time. History has it that Rani Pokhari was built by King Pratap Malla to console the bereaved Queen Anantapriya on the death of her youngest son, Prince Chakrawatendra Malla. From then it has adopted as a symbol of historical and religious value. Currently, the pond is fenced by iron bar creating an extra sense of enthusiasm. Moreover, the 336 years old pond is restricted to enter for any purpose that engages its enigma where time is endless waiting for its toll. The temple is opened just once in a year for the general public on the fifth day of Tihar festival i.e. Bhai Tika (Brother’s Day) where ladies without any brother or men without any sister pay a special worship in the temple on that particular day. Similarly it is in this place that they put on Bhai Tika to their newly made brothers or sisters. Apart from its historical background, its location and charm has been magnetizing native people as well as foreigners through its vivid and audacious ambience. Furthermore, orchestrating the Hindu belief, temples of Ganesh, Bhairab, Narayan and Saraswati are inhabited for protection in the four corners of the pond outside the periphery. Inside the abode, you can see the King and his two sons mounted on a big white elephant, portraying the status of the Kings at that time. The abode also homes number of scripted stones in its vicinity and it is believed that King Pratap Malla had setup four giant scripted stones in the four corners of the pond. Though, researchers have exacerbated places in search of the scripted stones, it is believed that the northwest stone was located about 36.6 metres away of the pond. It is embedded in a wall and half of it is buried below the ground level. The other northeast stone lies in the Bir Durbar at the corner of a small shrine and is situated about 228.6 metres northeast of the pond. On investigation of ground, a third stone was found buried in the compound of Bir Hospital in the southwest corner where as the southeast stone has not been excavated till today. Ironically, Rani Pokhari is the most beautiful and gracious pond located in the hustle and bustle of the metropolitan buzz depicting the pictorial clique as a mystery for pedestrians passing by. Still long after its establishment, it stands as a symbol of beauty personifying time in its elegance where people are seduced to its abode for a glance.

By Shreedeep Rayamajhi

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The 8th Wonder of the world

The 20th century orchestrated Man’s step in moon as the biggest headline creating a swarm of curiosity over the world; similarly, today in the 21st century a new discovery has amazed people to believe in the existence of the supernatural power and its understanding. Shocking yet admirable, the new discovery of a man and women face on Mt. Everest and Lhotse has created an amazement to see the world’s top most point with a new angle of admiration and anticipation. The abstract creativity of nature synchronizing in shape is a well example of nature’s abundance where Nepal holds the pride of honoring such manifestation of mysticism. Some people say it’s the eight wonder and some say it’s divine but to reality its one of the extreme creation of nature gifted in the form of abstract art which signifies the human relation with nature. Though, people from different caste and creed have their own interpretation and meaning but reality is the image on the Mt. Everest symbolizes the enigma of human existence and survival where the spirituality and divinity comes to the level of seeing in shape of amazement. The new discovery was made by Mike Wickham who believed his discovery not to be coincidental but with a purpose. He interprets the image as of an eye opened man in deep solitude and veneration facing upwards to the sky who when reversed transforms and shows the feminine form. Mike is a US citizen who resides from Maryland. In 2007, he had visited Mt. Everest and had taken some photos. On returning to states, he studies these photos and made a startling discovery of the impression of male’s and women’s image on Mt. Everest and Lhotse. According to mike, “Since man’s conscious first registered the presence of a supreme being, the race was on to find its source. The christen quest for the Holy Grail is a fine example. From ancient time believers in the absolute have wandered where the connection between man and god might exist. To amazement, the answer was hidden with us but we neglected it. These figures are widely historical and make the Everest area the world’s greatest natural sacred wonder. The mythical Holy Grail has been found. This is the proof of the spiritual bridge many on earth have waited ages to see. These figures are balanced motion of love and devotion.” Adding more “This is the natural existence of Adam and Eve. Likewise, looking at the image the face is relevant in Mt.Lhotse but protruding from his chest is an exposed heart, Mt Everest, the highest point on earth and the closest point to the heaven above. When we combine the feminine form of creation with the masculine form of will, we then create the heart of mankind that is Mt Everest. These figures are widely historical and make this Saragmatha area the world’s greatest natural sacred wonder. The mythical holly grail has been found. This is proof of the spiritual bridge many on earth have waited ages to see. These figures are the balanced motion of love and devotion.” Looking at the prospects, he said, “Nepal should cater itself as the destination of spiritual land which has such shapes of artistic work where god had created an earthly canvas on which lays the physical proof of man’s connection to his higher form. Perhaps, the heist point on earth really signifies the connection of man with god and what ever you name it; it’s the symbol of unity and peace. ” 

By Shreedeep Rayamajhi

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Tsum Valley: Yet another potential trekking destination

Located in the serrated and natural environment of Northern Gorkha at an altitude from 1905m to 5093m on the Tibetan border, Tsum valley is new marvel for tourist attraction. An exploration program was organized by Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) and Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) on May 11, 2008 which lasted for 17 days. Tsum Valley was recently opened by the government in last October 17, 2007 where previously, it was a restricted from any tourism or recreational activities. The exploration was conducted by 12 technical team members with 15 support team members for the survey of its feasibility as a trekking destination. According to the report forwarded by the team of Sonam Lama, Coordinator, Tsum Welfare Committee and Namgyal Sherpa Coordinator of the exploration and Executive member of Trekking Agents Association of Nepal (TAAN) stated, “The report addressed the issues on basic facilities and tourist attractions along the trail to uplift livelihoods of the inhabitants by developing and promoting sustainable tourism. The main objective of this project was to disclose the secrets of the hidden valley and make it feasible for all.” The specific objectives of the study limited with in following points: To study possibility of developing Tsum Valley as a new and peculiar destination. To study the tourism infrastructure available (camping, lodges, stores, bridges, helipads etc) for trekking groups To revise the cultural and natural heritages of the valley from the tourist standpoint. To study latent impact by the upcoming trekkers group on the socio-economic factor and the merits for the Tsumbas To ascertain the best possible area and daily chained itinerary with well detailed information that acquires optimum scenic and cultural experiences The report also forwarded recommendations like

1. Opening and Developing Tsum Valley Circuit Trek Route from Mu Gumba. This new circuit trek route can be developed by providing the basic facilities of water and improvement of trail. As the trail goes from high altitude, it can provide a spectacular panorama of surrounding peaks like Ganesh Himal, Poshyo peak, Langju peak and glacial lakes like Chho syong, Chho Lungyo and Yamdro,.

2. Opening and Development of Trans-Himalaya Circuit which would be linked from Kathmandu-Syabru Bensi-Kyirong-Takar Taso-Ngula Dhajen Pass-Tsum Valley-Arughat-Kathmandu.

3. Trail Improvement, The trail from Arughat to Tsum Valley is newly constructed. So a proper maintenance is the need.

4. Conservation and Renovation of Cultural heritage, since Tsum Valley is rich in its cultural heritage which needs to be conserved. As mani walls, chortens and gateway chortens and Gumbas play important role to attract tourists so timely renovation is a must. The exploration team observes the mani walls at Kalung, Gateway Chorten of Chhule are in deteriorated condition which should be addressed timely.

5. Tourism Awareness Program, This valley is recently opened for tourists, so most of the locals are unaware about the tourists and their relationship with the place. Hence, different programs should be initiated to aware the locals to understand about the tourism industry. Basically, these programs should be given to the school childrens.

6. Trainings for Tourism Promotion, In order to give the maximum benefit to the local community, it needs skilled manpower. Hence, different types of trainings should be carried out including Lodge management training, Cook-waiter training.

Likewise, talking about the prospect and tourism, Puspa Thapaliya President of the Gorkha Tourism said, “Tsum Valley is a high alpine virgin region which is famous for its unexplored rawness and wilderness. The way government declared its opening without any home work is really questionable.” “Despite its restriction, during the conflict time, tourists use to illegally camp in the valley, which has not only degraded the ecology but has questioned its future. As in the region, we have fewer numbers of trees and without proper mechanism they increase the high risk of deforestation and garbage problem. First thing that needs to be worked on is we should develop an effective mechanism involving all the stake holders where the pros and cons should be addressed, which seems to be sidelined,” said he. Regarding the royalty issue he added, “Currently we have a royalty of $90 in the peak season and $70 for the off season for Manaslu Region where as the government have declared royalty of $35 in the peak season and $25 in the off season for the Chum Valley which is totally absurd as Chum Valley is a new and virgin destination and when offered for less royalty. It would certainly attract large number of tourists and without proper mechanism in long run would surely invite problems.” “One more thing which needs to be thought of is just on the other side of the valley in China, we have all the facilities of infrastructure of road, communication etc but on our side we do not have any facility which needs to be understood and worked on,” stressed he. However, the business entrepreneurs are happy from the opening of Tsum valley but relatively a group of environmental activities are concerned with the lack of effective management from the government side. Perhaps the opening of the valley certainly highlights better prospect but on contrary it also discourages the illegal trekking and camping activities that were operated prior the opening. Jyoti Adhakari, President of Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal,” The government move to open Tsum Valley is very commendable. As Tsum valley holds lot of scope for productive tourism, it can prolong tourists stay for longer days due to it’s environ. It has huge scope for medium range adventure sites where it can easily attract trekkers and adventure enthusiasts. Firstly, we need to create local awareness about eco-tourism where all the stake holders should participate in creating an effecting mechanism for the overall development. We are also planning to donate $1 from the money raised to local bodies for awareness purpose as if people are aware about pros and cons then they can think for their betterment.” “We should promote local people and product for sustainability and this should be focused as the main mantra for tourism practice,” added he.

By Shreedeep Rayamajhi

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Memories of mesmerizing Lakhuri Bhanjyang

Lakuri Bhanjyang is a spectacular land marvel resides within 20 KM from the valley in the Lalitpur district at an altitude from 2100-2500m. Excluded and serrated in its own natural habitat, it’s one of the most popular sites for recreation activities. Perhaps, looking at the rich green bio-diversity and vegetation seems as an amalgamation of nature and modernization bordering to its limits. Similarly, the scenic views of Mahabharata range joys the arrivals amidst its wide versa of landscape magnetizing them to its enigmatic and dimensional perspective adding bonus to the journey. Contemplating, the peculiar views of the valley overwhelms its visitors with exhilaration and temptation of natural and real Nepal where on contrary the yellow embraced fields of mustard and small cribs located in the hills and cliffs gives an essence of vigorous civilization. Moreover, its spectacular landscape is perfect for adventure sports like hiking, mountain biking, paragliding etc which highlights the place from time to time in its abode in the name of tourism. Though not far from the city it’s a perfect and isolated site for relaxation where one can feel the fresh oxygen to the lung making it easier to breath in the explicit space. The journey starts from Kathmandu edging its border to the outskirt of Bhaktpur, Lalitpur district and then to Sisneri where we touched three district from Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Lalitpur. After reaching Sisneri, the vivid vegetation peripheries its facilitating environs to be more vivacious and attractive. Looking at such green and fresh vegetation, we slugged out of the bus thinking of the hiking to be hard and treacherous. We were accompanied by around 40 media persons from different publication and media houses who were invited to celebrate the International Mountains Day. After getting the hint from the organizers, we grabbed our bags and set in to the jungle with in the small tracks. The tracks were indifferent so much that if not accompanied by a tracker, it would be hard to locate the route. Perhaps, the deal was, we were excited and in the space of comfort of the locals and trackers, we decided to make the hike more adventurous, so neglecting the easy roads we made our way thorough the jungle creating an extra sense of enthusiasm and exhilarating out of the trip. The jungle was deemed with tall pine trees and slippery track of yellow mud, thanks to god it was not a rainy season. Despite the fact that these jungles at times can be scary and dangerous, we subtracted the stem and forwarded our journey with a new sprit. Carrying the burning enthusiasm, our team passed through the jungle highlighting a sense of excitement but on the back of our mind we all had the sense of adrenaline going, thinking for the inevitable. Passing by the panoramic cliff exhibited the exotic view of Kathmandu valley below and the mountain range amortized time in our memory. Looking at the scenic views from a native’s eyes focused on the essence to see the valley below in the most profound way. Moreover the encroachment of the concrete jungle and it limitation seemed as a posing threat of modernization where the nature was challenging the threats of modernization. Likewise, the tracks passed through a rough terrain where we felt the lack-ness, as lack of good trekking shoes might feel as a major draw back to face the evitable situation, so prior hiking one should always see the feasibility of the landscape and the accessories needed. The route made us feel very tradition and convention where the springs and streams that were readily available beside the tracks made us feel comfortable with the available of water. But looking at it from the health point of view it not considered wise to drink water from wild without any treatment which always triggered us neglecting it in the sprits of seeing and feeling it rather than using it. Similarly, during the hike, we came across villages and societies where the normal lifestyle of the native people was a learning experience. Like such, in Lamatar, we came across a Tamang society where the family of the deceased was performing the after death 49th day procession. The shaman told us that this was a very intricate process and if not done in proper way the sprits cannot obtain peace. The experience of the whole interaction was eccentric but reality is our culture and tradition are based upon mysterious believes that are very abstract and enigmatic which portraits our rich heritage. The hike nearly lasted around 2 hrs but the exhaustion was overwhelmed by the scenic mountains view of in the Mahabharata range and the valley which kept the sprit high. With a picture perfect mode posing seemed as a perfect shot framed in the canvas of nature. From Lakuribhanjyang one can see the range of mountains like Gauri shankar, Ganesh, langtang etc. Ironically, Lakuribhanjyang is a great destination of scenic views with a timeless photographic image where one can rejuvenate oneself with the fresh environment.

By Shreedeep Rayamajhi

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Nepali Orthodox Tea

“Tea has always been an expression of freshness” as whether it’s an early morning reason to get-up or a hot drink in hard winter, we generally grab our cups to satisfy our longing by having a cup of tea. To be precise tea has adapted the different culture and creed people, evolving itself as a brawny part of the different culture where people have developed it as an addiction in the most profound way. Scientifically, the tea plant belongs to Camellia Sinensis group of species, which generally grows in cold or higher altitude. Categorically teas are divided into two-category CTC which is massively grown in terai region and Orthrodox in hilly region. In-fact, the High altitude teas have more flavors and aroma than low altitude teas that is the reason why, the green teas grown in high altitude are regard as the best. Today, Nepal's orthodox tea is getting famous in the world for its medicinal and youth-ness properties. It is devoured by thousands of people in a pleasing way of satisfying their thirst in just the name of having a break. Perhaps, it contains antioxidants, which helps to fight our body against disease and also helps to prolong aging to an extent. Further researches have confirmed its properties to be effective against disease like cancer. Different category of teas are found from a specific garden, grade and flush like Silvery Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe (STGFOP), Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Pokoe (TGFOP), Golden Flowery Orange Pokoe (GFOP), Flowery Orange Broken (FOB), Broken Orange Pokoe (BOP), First and Second flush etc where teas grown using minimum pesticide are high in demand in the international market. Mostly the CTC teas are grown in terai region while orthodox teas are grown in hilly region. In eastern Nepal, the organic gardens are situated in 3000ft to 7,325ft above sea level giving the Nepal orthodox tea, a definite taste and aroma. Currently in major areas like Dhankuta, Illam, Jhapa, Therathum, Panchthar etc where the trend of orthodox tea is taking pace with high earning. More over, teas are produce from biological and ecological balanced soil so it has adapted the different entrepreneur in creating a lure for the industry. Generally, the tea plantation in Nepal begins in March following the raining season with the opening of winter. The tea then plucked has a light golden color with a slight aroma. The second flush is plucked during May and June. By mid June the Monsoon season reaches the eastern part and continues till the end of September. The tea produced during this period contains moisture and considered of standard quality. Again in October another plucking session is done which is specifically know as “Autumnal” varying its color from pale lemon to amber with the season. It features an extra ordinary Muscat flavor, rich aroma and a lingering aftertaste. Perhaps orthodox tea is accepted around the world for it seasonal and unique taste. The tea manufacturing process includes three main stages Plantation, Plucking and Pruning and Processing. Plantation includes a rigorous procedure of selecting a high quality tea breed and facilitating it with natural and available fertilizers. Plucking and pruning refers to another important stage where fresh leaves are plucked once every 7 days giving another batch of fresh tea leaves to grow on it. Similarly processing is the most important stage where the leaves plucked from the plant are then withered which gradually evaporates moisture from the leaf over the hours then the leaves are removed from the trough and loaded into a rolling machine. After the rolling process the leaves are then set for fermentation, on attaining the level of fermentation that transforms the green leaves into black tea and when the desired level of fermentation is acquired, then the tea is dried or exposed to hot air to regulate the aroma and taste. Likewise, it goes to a chamber of a modern tea factory where the temperature is maintained in between from 93-121C. It is the most intensive operation in the entire tea processing. After which the tea is then sealed and packed according to desired ways. Nevertheless, in today's context tea is growing as a habituation in subsidizing it as a culture where people are having one more cup in the name of break or recess. (Source: Kunwar C. Santosh, Managing Director of All Nepalese Teas & Coffee Centre. It is an agro based company pioneering in the filed of Orthodox, Organic tea and Bio-fertilizer. For further information please contact or log on to www.allnepaltea.com) BY Shreedeep Rayamajhi

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Tourism Budget Satisfactory, say entrepreneurs

Acclimatizing the new dawn of republican, the budget 2065/66 is welcomed by all with new aspirations of development and progress. Like other sectors, the tourism industry is also synchronized with different programs and policies addressing a better prospect for tomorrow. This year the budget has lined up different lucrative projects facilitating the industry like the new campaign “Nepal Tourism Year” is declared for 2011 where the basic objective of the campaign is to spread awareness and to do an effort to bring 1 million tourists per year. The ministry has allocated NRs 250 million for up-gradation and capacity expansion of 14 domestic airports and has also proposed Nrs. 397.8 million for tourism sector by substantially increasing the allocation compared to last Fiscal Year.

Similarly, the ministry has set aside NRs 200 million for the construction of International Airport at Nijgadh, Bara and Regional Airports at Pokhara and Bhairawa, which would be constructed on public-private partnership basis. It has proposed Rs. 950 million for the aviation sector.

Tek Chandra Pokheral, Chairman of Shangrila Tours and Travel said, “The new budget looks different but now it depends upon, the implementation. From the past a lot of new proposal and policies have been introduced by various parties but when it comes to implementation part they were weak. We just need to see how well the new government would carry their plans and policies.”

Regarding the new campaign to declare 2011 as Nepal Tourism Year, he said, “I am not excited by that. There is a normal growth of 27% in the number of arrivals where just by launching a new campaign gains burden. Reality is with the new campaign come responsibility which needs to be understood and worked on. Just looking back to the Visit Nepal 98 campaign, the amount of money and effort spend on it did not quantify the turn over. Though the conflict situation affected the productivity but still it did not meet the expectation, so it’s better to go with the normal growth rather than with such campaign.”

“ Moreover, if we could use the same money to facilitate the industry then it could give prominent results for e.g. if we could systematize traffic in tourists hub, increase the number of planes in the national carrier, systematize the Tribhuvan International airport (TIA) in terms of service and facilities then more prominent results can be achieved, ” added he.

“Currently we have Mafia’s ruling the trolleys in the TIA; recently the Japanese ambassador paid USD 20 for the use of the trolley which sounds embarrassing. At first we need to control such illegal acts then we can move on,” added he.

Like wise the budget also focuses towards the development of infrastructure, different plans and feasibility study of developing motorable roads at different parts of the country will be initiated. A feasibility study would be carried out and necessary process will be followed with a view of opening new trekking routes at Lamjunj-Annapurna, Lamjung-Manaslu, Gorkha-Manaslu areas and Manasrover focusing Khaptad.

Jyoti Adhakari, President of Trekking Agent’s Association of Nepal (TAAN) said, “This budget indeed is a different budget which addresses the needs and issues of the tourism industry. We just need to wait for some time and then evaluate its substantiality but still the early signs seem very prominent where the minister has already initiated to lease two Boeing for the national carrier Nepal Airline Corporation (NAC). Like such, we cannot just expect changes with in seconds or days, it takes time and a lot of resources. I believe the government has equal amount of opportunities as well as challenges. Moreover, we cannot expect more in a situation like this where we lack proper mechanism. So we just need to wait and watch. We need to support the government as for the first time tourism has been recognized as the economic development tool by the government.”

In order to develop tourism as a main component of poverty alleviation and a tool for revolutionary economic development, the budget focuses on development of infrastructure like road, communication etc which would increase the number of tourists’ flow enhancing income in rural and urban areas.

Ram Kaji Koney, President of Nepal Association of Travel and Tours Agents (NATTA) said, “The new budget is very impressive. The new campaign for the 2011 and the modalities for the improvement of the industry are very welcoming.”

“But it has missed certain things, such as Tourism Labor Law and Road Accident Law which should be formulated and brought in practice strictly. Today our tourism industry is in a threat because of untoward incidents like bandhs, vandalism, intimidations and extortions by various political and non political forces. This has to come in a complete halt. Likewise currently TIA lacks three T’s Toilet, Trolley and Taxi where the tourists are suffering due to improper management. The government should keep an eye on such activities at TIA where tourists are harassed.” added Koney.


By Shreedeep Rayamajhi

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Rhinos census shows 408 rhinos in Chitwan National Park

Rhino poaching has been a hot issue from past few years. Though tireless efforts have been made at national and international level to discourage poaching and illegal killing of rhino but the killings have significantly increased in the years, luring vast majority of people due to its high paid up value. Nevertheless, the scenario is changing as in the year 2000 the rhino census counted 544 rhinos in Nepal and in 2005 the census counted 372 rhinos in Chitwan. Similarly, the 2008 census revealed that the number rose to 408 in Chitwan.

Laxmi P. Manandhar, Conservation Education Officer at the Department of National Parks & Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) said, “The Nepal government in coordination with different local bodies like World Wildlife Fund (WWF), National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC), IUCN etc are working to raise awareness about poaching and we have even mobilized the local resource, Police and Army personnel in the operation. It is a joint effort in coordination to fight against poaching which is high on alert. At first we need to understand the real ordeal of rhino poaching. The thing is, it is considered that rhino horn is used in different traditional medicine and thought to have aphrodisiac qualities but in reality, its just a mere propaganda. Rhino horn in reality is a type of hair and since it’s rare so its value has gone up, other than that everything is false.”

“At times, we hear in Medias about the foreign involvement in poaching but reality is there is no such direct involvement found or seen till today. As in most cases Nepalese are the ones who kill rhinos and the agents out here export it to foreign market. So focusing that we have already started different levels of awareness campaigns,” added he.

On the query about the feasibility of infrastructure and equipment he added, “During the insurgency time, most of our infrastructures (security posts and towers) were destroyed or were damaged, so we have already started the renovation process other than that we are technically fit to deal with the problem.”

“In major of the cases, rhinos die due to natural causes and when found by villagers they rob the horn which again comes under poaching, as its horn is missing. Moreover, to overcome the whole issue of poaching the government should implicate strict rules of punishment where person found guilty should be strict punishment which would definitely discourage others,” stated he.

According to the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 2029 BS; any person directly or indirectly involved in killing, injuring, purchasing or selling protected wild animals or its products, including rhinos, or transferring rhino horns and if found guilty can be jailed for 5-15 years and fined Rs 50,000-100,000. Contemplating the scenario, currently there are around 100 accused poachers serving sentences in jails at different location of Bharatpur, Birganj and Kathmandu where as on the counter part the carnage is still on, highlighting the demand of rhino horn at national and international market.

Diwakar Chapagaine, Manager at Wild Life Trade program of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) said, “WWF from its side has been supporting the cause by every means. We have been facilitating the government with basic necessities of transportation, communication, equipment etc. Moreover, we have also played crucial role in community mobilization where we are coordinating with different community bodies to raise awareness regarding the issue.”

“Today the situations have changed previously when people didn’t knew the importance of wildlife but now after awareness they are more concerned. Reality is, if a rhino dies today then questions are raised from the different stake holders which has certainly discouraged poaching and other illegal activities,” added he.

Briefing more about the WWF plan he said, “In future we are planning to launch higher level of awareness campaign specially targeting the policy makers, as still today there are people at policy level who think and say, land occupied by forests are waste and it should be turned into field which certainly needs to change. The only option to fight against poaching is awareness and if better steps are taken now then we cannot secure the future.”

Recently on June 9, a total of nine poachers, including Nepal Army (NA) personnel who were involved in rhino poaching in Bardiya National Park, were trailed at the District Prison Office, Bardiya. The officials at the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) said that all the alleged poachers were detained when their involvement was proved in poaching activities.
Likewise in another case on June 19, the rangers caught Pemba Lama, alias Yakche, during a search operation. He was carrying a rhino horn and Rs 460,000 cash, and confessed of killing 20 rhinos and selling their horns to Tibetan traders. As per the information provided by the Department, those arrested were NA personnel Jaya Bahadur Shah and renegades Om Prakash Chaudhary, Binod Shah and Om Prakash Basyaula. Shah was associated with the Raneshwor Battalion of NA located at Thakurdwara of Bardiya district.

Though, rhino poaching and its issue are highlighted daily in different medias but crucial role-play by the Nepal government stand out loud proving its effective measure and mechanism. The numbers increased have certainly given hope for this animal’s survival but on the other hand the rare species also has given a new scope and role for marketing Nepal with a new tool.

By Shreedeep Rayamajhi

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Save the Thamel

Picturing the perfect scenario of tourism, Thamel potrays the real image of a tourist hub where more than 2500 business runs acclimatizing the sole theme of serving the tourists. No matter what, tourism being a service industry has been catering the needs of tourists and visitors adapting it in the most profound way. Like such, Thamel as a hub, provides availability of things ranging from food items to entertainment for tourists. There is no doubt that Thamel is the most happening destination in the whole of Kathmandu but, with time, Thamel has seen many changes and not all of them are good ones. Lately, Thamel has become a notorious destination among domestic and international tourists as sex business center.

The different orchestrated centers like dance bar restaurants, cabin restaurants, massage centers and discos are mushrooming in Thamel which is posing a great threat to the overall image of the country. As most of the tourists visiting Nepal still prefer to stay in Thamel for the name it has earned over the years as a popular hang out place for tourists. However, the sex business in Thamel has intensified so much that after dusk, the scenario changes where it stages itself with an illusive image of explicit paradise. One can easily understand the worsening scenario by looking around the growing numbers of sex workers and brokers wandering freely in the street of Thamel.

Namgyal Lama, President of Thamel Tourism Development Council (TTDC) said, "The first thing that we should understand is that Thamel is changing very fast in to becoming an entertainment hub. Previously, it was just thought as a tourist hub but today it has commercialized where different businesses are run. We totally agree that if Thamel is not properly managed and monitored, it would certainly turn out worse in the years ahead."

Lama informs more, "A new problem of walking prostitutes has arisen in Thamel. Many of the tourists have complained of such encounters in streets of Thamel. It needs to be controlled by the authorities before it gets too late."

“Although prostitution is illegal in Nepal, it is going on unabatedly. In addition, the basic thing here is about clear policies where the government lacks to provide an effective mechanism," added he.

Tourism provides massive potential for sustainable social and economic growth and development of the countries. And many tourism experts argue that there is a huge potential in the sex industry to allure tourists in any country. Unfortunately, it also invites inherent threats like HIV AIDS and other STD’s.

In February 4, 2005 (Friday), the BBC News website quoted, “The sexual behavior of Nepalese trekking guides and tourists is to be the subject of a study by researchers at Aberdeen University.” Perhaps, the situation has worsened in the years.

According to a broker in Thamel, “The question here is not about availability, the question here is about people's mentality. The government should take strict measures and control it. One must see the problem from different angles to analyze the situation."

He stressed, “We do this for living and we do not have much choice left. Besides, it is an easy way to earn. And it is same with the sex workers. Most of them are compelled to sell sex. From time to time the Indian tourists do visit these brothels and more often their guests have been Nepalese.”

"I have heard the whole racket run in association with in the cooperation of Police. Every month, a large sum of money is channeled to police officers for facilitating their work. The whole network runs with the help of money power which sluggish to higher level officials," he added.

There have also been reports that even police officials are involved in these businesses indirectly. Many of them make hefty money out of these businesses for not conducting raids.

On the same, defending the issue, Basundhara Khakda, Inspector at the Sorhakhutta Police Station said, “When I first came to this station. Like a normal person, I had a different image of Thamel as a tourist destination,” adding, “Sex business is however not the only problem in Thamel. Recently, two dance restaurant owners for over billing where from time to time we have been monitoring such activities since," informed she.

“We have launched a Quick React Team (QRT) for effectively handling the situation where our team is leading the action for prominent results. We have been holding operation in Thamel in both duty hours and off-duty hours to find out more irregularities. Apart from that recently, we had called all the dance restaurant owners and had discussed the issues of inappropriate sexual activities happening in such centers. They did agree to stay according to rule. If they cross it, then we would certainly take action against them,” added she.

Regarding the allegation for police, she asserted, “I am not bothered by what people say. It is part of my duty to work for the people with in the legal periphery and I would always be marching in that direction to achieve my goals where the wrong doers would certainly be brought to the book.”

There is no doubt that the high number of displaced because of the past conflict has led most of the young girls to choose sex work for living. Owing to lack of opportunities, these girls start their sex career right from as early as 13. To begin with, most of them start from cabin and dance restaurants. And slowly they take to prostitutions by force or any other reasons. From interviews, most of them don’t fancy their job as sex workers but are compelled to do so to meet their expensive daily needs in Kathmandu.

Prof. Dr Rudra Pd. Updhayay, Central Dept of Economic and rural Development T.U Kirtipur said, “Sex tourism is a part of tourism which cannot be denied. Perhaps, sex industry is such controversial issue that can be regulated but it cannot be controlled which need to be understood and worked on. Especially in Nepal, where sex is taken as taboo, the problem is inevitable looking at the growing tourism scenario. The increase in sexual activities in Thamel and other hubs are the direct effect of inflation, violence and displaced situation.”

“Thamel is a booming hub and all the business inside it are interrelated which need to be understood. Another reasons for the increasing sex industry inside the tourism is the lack of proper rules and regulation which generally fortifies the sex tourist to travel to such country where the rules and regulation are at ease or flexible. Like wise, It is also attracting sex tourists who are not only bringing a limited resource but unfortunately they are also bringing diseases like HIV/AIDS which needs to be addressed by heightening awareness,” added he.

He suggested, "TTDC should initiate a proper mechanism with the stakeholders to regulate sex businesses in Thamel."

Approximately, there are more than 30 Dance Restaurants and 200 Massage Centers in Thamel alone. However, not all the dance bars and massage parlors are using sex as their prime product. Regardless of high risk of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and HIV-Aids, the sex industry in Thamel is growing in an alarming rate. Now the time has come that the government should take some serious steps regarding prostitution and other sex related activities in the country in general and Thamel in particular. Those illegal brothels need to be identified and closed down. The time has also come for public polls on whether to legalize prostitution or not. The situation as of now is only risking the health of public and the sex workers and if this issue is ignored that may have deadly impact on the society as a whole researcher's have contemplated that potential tourists' fear of HIV/AIDS could discourage themselves from visiting such places and which might displace the tourism businesses from Thamel to other place as what happened to the Freak Street. Therefore, effective measures should be taken in a coordinated way to make a Thamel a better place. The TTDC should play a role to take further initiatives in bringing concrete solutions to this problem before it gets too late.

By Shreedeep Rayamajhi

Publication: Nepal Traveller Publication

Magzine: Nepal Travel Trade Reporter

Date of issue: March 10-23, 2008

Vol-X

Issue: 48

Page no: 22 and 23 (Feature Article)

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The Growing Voluntarism

Tourism has different facets, like such the current evolving trend of volunteer tourism is yet another aspect, which has been attracting thousands of tourists accenting their passion for Voluntarism and Social works. Every year thousands of tourists visit our country's rural part in assisting the native to provide a helping hand in building and renovating school projects, drinking water projects and orphanages. These volunteers mostly come in association through web or individual referral who work in cooperation with big International Non Governmental Organization (INGO) or local Non Governmental Organization (NGO). The basic motive behind the service quantifies time need of tourists, which relates it as a part of their education or to earn an experience for their resume or as a passion. No matter what, these tourists interest in but on pragmatic grounds they not only serve the rural with physical services but also generate huge revenue in the form of membership fee to the INGOs and NGOs. These volunteers pay a membership fee ranging from US$ 10 to 100 according to institutions and organizations. In addition, they also donate cloths and useful equipments as assistance to their work operation and after completion of the volunteer program, they enroll themselves in sponsoring the orphan childrens for their education. Apart from that a lot of foreigners even engage themselves in raising fund in their community and sending it back to Nepal supporting the different orphanages and NGOs.

Tiago Madureird Migliari, a Brazilian volunteer said, “Beside everything, Nepal offers a lot of tourist activities for which people come here for holidays and at the same time, they feel like doing something for the people in return of exposure to true nature, culture and adventure of Nepal.”

“We volunteers come from different countries paying our own money to the INGOs or NGOs on different volunteer programs. We not only give our money but to some extent facilitate the native in supporting them with the assistance of our capabilities but in ways we take the social responsibility of making a difference in the society,” says Migliari, adding, “There are a lot of illegitimate organizations and corruption going on, which is rampantly creating a negative image of the country. Perhaps there are many organizations working in the field that portrays the image of a social organization but in reality they do not work for the cause. They just take the money and that does not help much. As volunteers, we try to bring funds from our country to help the needy and looking at such scenario it obstructs us from doing the activities, which strongly needs to be controlled by the authorities.”

“Currently, we are working one on one with people and we have established websites named www.nepaliproject.wordpress.com and http://www.kavreproject.wordpress.com/ in both English and Portuguese language to raise money from outside. Apart from that we have also launched a fund raising program where we have designed some t-shirt, which we would be selling with in our circle and the money raised would be used for sponsoring the children’s education in different sites. I request other travelers and volunteers that it’s easy to give money but it should be watched where the money is going,” added he.


He suggested, “While travelling the tourists, they get culturally involved with the society and people. Doing such, it certainly creates the scope of responsibility and they should initiate something to make a difference as voluntarism is all about bringing a change in the society. At times you feel frustrated with the constricted system and lack of helping hand but the societal responsibility always comes with hardship which should be realized and continue ahead.”

The rampantly opening of the small NGOs and other social organizations has not only created an issue of weak government monitoring mechanism but in ways has increased the cases of fraudulent happenings.

P. Yalambar Rai, Program Officer at Kathmandu Environmental Education Project (KEEP) said, “The volunteering tourism has good potential in our country, for a lot of tourists who come to Nepal, they feel like doing something."

"For long term volunteer's the limited VISA of 150 days is an obstacle where feasible policies need to be devised according to the timely needs," added he.

Talking about the illegitimate organization, he said, "The main problem here is about transparency which is why fraudulent cases are taking its toll in the name of NGO. The Social Welfare Council (SWC) needs to impose a stronger monitoring mechanism, which would not only control the organization but would further help to expand and facilitate the industry. It is a sensitive issue which should be prioritized."

Bhupendra Ghimire, Chairman of Volunteers Initiative Nepal said, “The Volunteers generally come here from web correspondence and we enroll them in our volunteers program. Currently the European Union (EU) has made compulsion of voluntarism in developing nation as a part for completion of the education degree, which has increased the flow."

He asserted, "We seriously need to have a controlling mechanism as a lot of fund is collected by NGO’s where the transparency on the earning and expenditure should be clear. As when a tourist donates his money, he donates it for a cause."

By Shreedeep Rayamajhi

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