Nepal in Time's Hot Spot

The December issue of Time magazine describes the hill station of Nagarkot in Nepal as "a great weekend holiday with great views and pleasant weather", the Royal Chitwan National Park as "one of Asia's best wildlife areas", and the Kathmandu Valley as "a rewarding travel destination for those seeking a spiritual lift".

The Travel Watch section of Time (December 10, 2001) has devoted two full pages to Nepal and has placed Nagarkot in the much-coveted Hot Spot of the same section. According to the magazine "In Nagarkot you can see the majesty of the mountains without suffering the ill effects of a trek. Besides, it's a great weekend getaway in the foothills, above the clouds but not quite into thin air."

It is obvious that the authors of the various segments of Travel Watch section, like all tourists who come to Nepal, had a great holiday experience. Nepal's popularity as a tourist destination has increased over the years, and with that the infrastructure and the possibility of visiting the far-flung parts of the Kingdom. Today, Nepal has emerged as a destination that prides itself on offering the best of services and tourism products to meet the needs of our tourists, while at the same time remaining economically and environmentally sustainable.

The declaration of Emergency in Nepal a week back has resulted in improved security situation in the country. It is important to note that the Emergency does not restrict the movement of citizens and tourists. In fact, the Emergency has curbed unwanted political activities.

The travel trade remains open and is running smoothly as before providing service to tourists with traditional hospitality that Nepalese people are renowned for. As Time magazine quotes, "Nepalese traditions are richer than the rarified air of the surrounding peaks".

suresh