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Pros and Cons of travelling to Nepal alone

Posted on November 17, 2019December 5, 2019 by Plan Holidays

Nepal is host to arguably one of the oldest civilizations in the world. Often referred to as the center piece of the Buddhist religion, Nepal has a beautiful and diverse culture worthy of admiration by people around the globe. In this segment, we’ll go over a few Pros and Cons of travelling to Nepal alone . Note that it isn’t necessary that these might apply to you. However, it’s best to go over all of these before you book your ticket!

If you’re planning to travel to Nepal in the near future, then you’re on the right track. The reasons why you should go for this track are plenty. However, to make the most of your trip, you need to take things at face value as opposed to what they might seem to be.

hiking and mountaineering

Pros:

Improves language skills

The best benefit that solo travelling to Nepal will present you is an improvement in your language skills. Since the majority of Nepalese people don’t really speak English, this is a great way to work on your language skills all by yourself.

However, it’s important to mention that the bulk of the populace is fluent in English.

Cathartic self-discovery

The collective region of South Asia and Nepal is that which is often submerged in spirituality. If you’re travelling alone, Nepal can definitely serve as a stepping stone for your journey towards spirituality.

If you’re travelling with a group, there’s a decent chance that a few individuals might have some reservations about the experience that focus primarily on meditation and other practices famous in the region.

Cost-effective

The main benefit that travelling alone to Nepal is that it will save you money down the road. Generally speaking, currency conversion ensures that you’ll be well-off in Nepal. Likewise, saving an extra buck can also come in handy.

Furthermore, it’s also easier to get accommodation since you’ll only need a place for one!

Cons:

More susceptible to danger

Travelling alone to Nepal can leave you susceptible to all types of danger. However, these dangers are those that can be found virtually anywhere. The common protocol here is that you should be smart with your encounters and transactions.

Common sense is the best tool that you have. Don’t be too quick to trust someone, because there are plenty of con-artists who are waiting for the next unsuspecting tourist.

Hiking and off-road travel can be dangerous

Nepal is famous for its off-road hiking and mountaineering tracks. If travelling alone, this is one option that needs careful consideration. This is because getting lost in the woods and on these trails is more normal than you might think.

The general guideline is to hire a tour guide who can stay with you throughout this part of your trip. This is for your own benefit. These are Pros and Cons of travelling to Nepal alone, Remember it’s better to spend a little money and be safe, as opposed to being sorry.

Tips to plan adventure holidays in Nepal

Posted on November 10, 2019November 10, 2019 by Plan Holidays

It gets a bit chaotic when it comes to planning your adventure trip. Plan Holidays addresses all your needs and hence has come up with this blog on all the tips you’d want to plan an adventure trip to Nepal. Here we give some tips to plan adventure holidays in Nepal. Happy reading!

Do a proper research about your destination

It is always a preferred idea to know what you expect from your destination. It saves your time and makes your journey even more pleasant. Doing a proper research on your destination not only helps you to set your benchmark but also helps you on what you need to pack, what precautions to take, what issues to avoid and where to start from.

Travel blogs from travelers who have visited the destination before helps a lot. Also, travel magazines and guidebooks can serve as good references.

Trust what your friends recommend. After all, you cannot avoid all the difficulties but you can surely reduce it by learning lessons from somebody else’s experiences.

Do some research but do not expect to get all organized. Adventure trips are more fun when taken spontaneous!

Bardia Superior Package

Pack light, pack proper

Now this is a travel tip most of the adventure travelers from all around the world look up to. Packing is an art. What you should realize is that you can always buy the secondary necessities in your destination but you should not forget the most important items while packing. First make a checklist of all the outfits, gears and equipment you would want during the journey. Then, sort out your priorities. If you don’t find something that important, don’t pack it; it’d only take up unnecessary space.

After you’re done with the checklist, get prepared with a luggage or a suitcase that best fits your travel guidelines. If you are allowed to only have a luggage weighing 20 kg, let’s say, you would not want your luggage to weigh out most of it.

The rest of the amenities that you use most of the time, like sanitize, keep it in the hand carry. It sounds simple but is effective.

Documents and Finance

While choosing an international destination, documents and finance are something you would not want to forget because in the absence of either of these two, you’d either won’t get into or out of your destination.Before planning your trip, make sure you have all the required documents as per the country’s entry requirements. Then, check out for the currency.You should do this in your planning phase because documents require time. If you are up for some adventure sports like rafting, mountaineering, bungee jumping or trekking here in Nepal, make sure you have all the necessary permits.

Always keep copies of your important documents and some reserve cash. You never know what you will face in the destination, so be prepared for all of it.

Packing the perfect outfits

Before you head out for a trip and plan adventure holidays, always have an idea of the weather conditions in your destination. Pack your outfits accordingly. Also, have a plan on what kind of trip are you looking out for. If you are heading for an adventurous trip, pack your outfits according to the adventure needs with proper gears and equipment. Take most of your sports wear and only a few casual wear with you.

Also, don’t forget that you would want to buy some outfits in your destination too. So make space for it beforehand and that way, you are not gonna end all messed up while returning.

Kali Gandaki River Rafting

Always prioritize your health

Remember that even if everything goes as planned, you would not be able to make the most out of it without proper health. Pack all the necessary medicines including the medicines that you have been consuming. Make a separate space for medical kits in your luggage. Keep yourself hydrated and stay away from allergic and raw foods.

Consider your health conditions before opting for any adventure sports. If your health does not support it, it is not worthy no matter how appealing it might seem like.

Travel Insurance

It is always better to have proper precautions than to regret later. You are traveling somewhere outside of your comfort zone, so you should be prepared for all kind of consequences it might offer. Travel Insurance is the best idea to get you covered.

Trip cancellation insurance, travel-medical insurance and medical evacuation charges are some of the insurances that will get you all covered up. That way, you wouldn’t have to worry about not having your investment refunded or having some serious injuries.

Choose your travel operator wisely

Last but not the least, the travel agency that you choose eventually affects your journey. While choosing your tour operator, safety and reputation should outweigh the price. With Plan Holidays, you would be able to make the best out of your trip. Owing to 20 years of a reputable establishment in the tourism industry, we assure you that you would leave satisfied and happy Tips to plan adventure holidays in Nepal. Come join us and make your adventure trip a memorable one!

Beginners guide to peak climbing in Nepal

Posted on October 30, 2019October 31, 2019 by Plan Holidays

Nepal, widely known as the lap of Himalayas, is known as so for a reason. The tourists from all over the world don’t only get spellbound by the natural and scenic beauty but also admire it for the full range of Himalayan activities it offers. If you love to gather experiences of Himalayan activities, Nepal is undoubtedly a country you would not want to miss. Mountaineering and Peak Climbing in Nepal have been one of the major tourist attractions. Nepal has been the top destination for mountaineers and climbers to achieve a lifetime experience and record; after the first successful expedition on Mount Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary from New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa from Nepal on 29 May 1953. Here we are giving the Beginners guide to peak climbing in Nepal.

peak climbing in Nepal

Nepal offers visitors with more than 1310 peaks, which are over 5500 m, with the highest being 8848 m above the sea level. Most of the mountains are open to climb. However, some of them have not yet opened. These wide ranges of peaks are categories as trekking peaks and expedition peaks. Nepal Mountaineering Association has 18 trekking peaks over 6000 m to 6500 m under it for the trekkers to explore while in their journey to Nepal.

Every peak climbing experience can differ in accordance to the type of peak. But, it is generalized into one whole idea of an essential guide. So, if you are looking forward to peak climbing in Nepal, here’s a list of a few things you would not want to miss:

1. Plan your journey in advance

It surely is a preferred way among the travelers to explore spontaneously, but when it comes to peaks, you might not want to do that. It is always wise to plan your trip. Do some research regarding the altitude, technicality, and previous trekking experiences. Know your destination before you plan to reach one.

planning trekking

2. Climbing Gears

Since exploring the trekking peaks in Nepal does not require any mountaineering skills, climbing gears can surely be your companion throughout the journey. Climbing gears are readily available on rent from Pokhara and Kathmandu in case you don’t look forward to buying it.

Climbing gears ensure you with safety and precautions. Furthermore, it is always advisable to carry a medical kit with you for further protection.

3. Opt for base camps of the peaks

Along with the climbing gear, you can also opt for trekking to the base camps of the ridges so that you get acclimatized once you get to the top.

4. Stay on route

It is always the best idea to hire an experienced guide who can help you explore the peaks in safer ways. The guides can also help you with the knowledge of rock climbing, how to walk on icy pathways, techniques of using the rope knots, and any other dangers.

Always try to trek with a guide. If not, at least travel with someone from the community who has been to the peak before. Always follow the instructions and stay on route. Don’t overlook their advice. Know that they have been there before and know how things back.

trek with a guide

5. Travel insurance

The purchase of travel insurance will get you prepared and assured both economically and mentally. Before you decide to explore the higher altitudes of Nepal, it is better to get yourself a travel insurance that covers at least 6000 meters of a helicopter rescue operation.

These are some of the tips for Beginners guide to peak climbing in Nepal. Find more of similar travel tips on our websites.

6 Best things to do in Pokhara

Posted on September 8, 2019December 5, 2019 by Plan Holidays

Pokhara is the most famous destination in Nepal, which has attracted the attention of many tourists. Pokhara valley is a beautiful place, full of lakes and people can see Himalayan range from there. It is famous for extreme sports like bungee jumping, rafting, and canoeing. If you are confused about what to do in Pokhara then here is the list of top 6 Best things to do in Pokhara to make your trip more memorable.

Burning mountain morning view

Top 6 things to do in Pokhara

1. Explore Pokhara on bike

Exploring the city on a bike is the most awesome experience one can get. You can go to many further places on a bike. It is better than both a bicycle and a car. So make the team and rent a bike. The view of Himalayas is not seen from Kathmandu, so enjoy the breathtaking views while you are on a bike.

2. Boating in scenic Phewa Lake

Nepal is famous for its historical places. Tal Barahi temple is a very beautiful temple which is located in the middle of Phewa Lake. The lake itself is very scenic and gives an eye-catching view. Many people like to visit the temple, and the only way to reach there is by boat. So boating in a scenic Phewa Lake is probably the best thing to do while you are in Pokhara.

Fewa lake view from Sarangkot

3. Visit peace Stupa

Peace Stupa is a kind of temple located at the top of a small mountain. There are probably only two ways to reach it. One by trekking for hours which has its benefits and the other is by boat. Many people love trekking, while others love boating. So it is convenient for both as there are facilities.

4. Don’t forget bat cave

Are you scared of bats? Well, there is a cave in Pokhara, known as a bat cave. It is a dark cave which has bats all over its roof. In Nepal people call this place as Chamero Gufa. It looks very unreal and fascinating. It is also dangerous sometimes because bats love animals and human blood. There is no safety check at all and everyone is responsible for their own life. But you get to interact closely with the bats which are no doubt a shocking thing.

5. Enjoy the sunset at Sarangkot viewpoint

If you come to Pokhara and leave without seeing the sunset at the viewpoint, then you have missed everything. You can go to the top on a bike for a nice bird’s eyes views. You can see incredible views from up there and observe Mother Nature.

6. Chill at Begnas Lake

Many people don’t like to mix with the crowd and wants a peaceful place for a nice walk with their loved ones. Begnas Lake is the place you are looking for. It is a peaceful lake where you can relax and chill without being disturbed. Not many tourists visit this place, but you can see locals washing their clothes, self fishing with hooks and even using small boats for fishing. You can also hire a motorboat and admire the beauty of the mountains.

Begnas lake Pokhara Hidden lake

Conclusion

Pokhara is a city worth visiting. It has several activities to do, and these are some top activities you can do during your stay.

Lake and boat pokhara

Choosing Between Hiking, Trekking or Peak Climbing

Posted on August 14, 2019November 4, 2019 by Plan Holidays

Hiking, trekking or peak climbing, also known in some places as mountaineering are three different words that mean almost synonymous to a large number of people. On paper, however, the differences are quite noticeable and should be kept in mind when choosing any one of them. So, to understand completely, you first need to have an idea between the significant differences in them. Thus, we will be explaining them very briefly for you to develop a plan.

trekking alone

Major Differences between The Three

The type of terrain, difficulty level, and the equipment used account for the differences in them. Hiking means only an act of walking on clearly indicated trails without needing any climbing skills or equipment. Trekking, on the other hand, is a bit rough; there are no well-established trails, the terrain may be rough making it more difficult, but it too does not require any technical skills or special equipment and lasts for more than two days usually. Peak climbing, on the other hand, is entirely different. It needs specialized equipment, technical skills, and the right fitness level. Now that we have basic knowledge, so let’s decide what you should pick.

trekking with guides

Are You a Leisure Time Hiker?

If you are looking to spend your precious leisure time walking up mountains, hiking should be your instant pick. You can start from one-day hikes, and then after some successful trips, you can increase the number of days as your body gets more used to it.

Duration of the Trip

How many days are you planning to spend on your trip? If you don’t have much time and are looking for something to be completed within two days, hiking should be it. If you want to go for a longer time and not to look for a considerable difficulty, then you could go for a trek, and finally, if you have the skills and you have months to spend, there can be nothing more enjoyable than peak climbing.

Medical and Physical Fitness

These two key factors are probably the most important ones to bear in mind for your very own safety purposes. As you may not be conscious of it, but peak climbing requires a great combination of excellent medical and physical fitness. It demands very long endurance training sessions as well as other technical training so you can’t just go straight up without having all of it or you may have to face severe problems caused by high altitudes, varying temperatures, unpredictable weather along with other technical issues.

cycling tour

Equipment You Are Willing to Use

The gear you have is essential, as well. While you don’t need anything for hiking, you may need some elementary equipment for trekking. And as for peak climbing, it’s a different thing. You need exceptional gear, and you have to know how to use them like fixing of ropes, using crampons, etc.

equipment for trekking

Conclusion

we are pretty sure you have already decided what you want and made up your mind. Now It’s easy Choosing Between Hiking, Trekking or Peak Climbing. If it’s a leisure time walk to see nature, go hiking. If you’re going to approach the countryside and increase the duration and adventure of your trip and you’re somewhat physically fit too, go trekking. However, if you have had adequate training and equipment, and have a lot of time and want to see the beauty of the mountains to the most and stand at its summit, go for peak climbing without having any second thoughts.

5 interesting ideas to plan your holiday in Kathmandu

Posted on August 2, 2019November 5, 2019 by Plan Holidays

Planning a little vacation to Kathmandu, are we? That must be the only reason you’re here. Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a breathtaking place to be for everyone. While you’re there, you can make your way through monasteries and temples and explore thousands of years of history, culture and world heritage sites. But before you set out on your journey, you need to know a few fun things that are a must to do during your holiday in Kathmandu. Here is a few interesting ideas to plan your holiday in Kathmandu.

Try spending your honeymoon in Nepal

Many people are unaware of the existence of this small country in Asia. Even the ones who know it, only know it from the reference of mount Everest, the world’s highest mountain.

The place is more than just a home of those towering peaks. It is also rich in undying culture, and most importantly, it is a hub of numerous destinations that are perfect for a romantic honeymoon. There are several places you can visit Nepal as a couple, like Pokhara, Patan, Chitwan, and Kathmandu. These places will make your honeymoon a heavenly experience.

Visit world heritage sites in Kathmandu

Kathmandu is filled with cultural heritage and world heritage sites that you must visit. So during your holiday in Kathmandu, these are the places of cultural importance that you need to visit:

Kathmandu Durbar Square

This was the Nepalese royal residence, until somewhere around the 19th century.

Patan Durbar Square

This is another Durbar Square in lalitpur. One of its attractions is the ancient royal palace where the mallas dynasty of Lalitpur resided.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

This is the third Durbar Square, which is located in Bhaktapur. It served as royalty’s residence, till 1769, and was damaged due to the 1934 earthquake.

Spend luxury holidays in Nepal

While you are there, you can spend the most luxury vacation in Kathmandu. There are many things you can do where you can pay and get the most rewarding experience. The money you spend there will always be worth it.

You can take a trip to the small villages and towns in between Pokhara and Kathmandu. This will give you a glance at the life of the locals in Nepal.
This is perfect for couples, whether they are looking to get married or are already married. You can have your marriage blessed by a Hindu priest at Pashupatinath Temple.
You can also trek through the beautiful Annapurna Region while being accompanied by the expert guides.

Find Kathmandu tour packages

You can find many organizations working in Nepal, which will help you spend a well put together and thought out vacation. They will take you to the best places in the amount of time that is preferred by you.

All you need to do is to go on google and search for interesting ideas to plan your holiday in Kathmandu tour packages. And then you can choose the package that best suits your needs. They are also divided based on the level of luxury and facilities available. Have a nice trip!

Most popular treks in the Everest region of Nepal

Posted on July 22, 2019November 5, 2019 by Plan Holidays

The Everest region in Nepal is one of the most famous and breath-taking regions in the Himalayas, and it is much more than just an iconic peak. The main inhabitants of the region are the famous Sherpa people who follow Buddhism. However, they are very friendly and generous and have a very colorful lifestyle which allows us to spend some quality time along with them during our trek. Below listed are some of the Most popular treks in the Everest region of Nepal.

Everest Base Camp Trek

This is the most famous trek of all and Most popular treks in the Everest region of Nepal it takes around 13 days to complete. The usual starting point is Lukla, and you can easily fly over there, however, if you want to add more challenge, you can trek from Salleri. The trek consists of a well-guided trail, passing through the river valleys, through glaciers and finally hits the foot of Everest which is the home to all the south side expeditions. If we go during spring, the glaciers will be flooded by a whole lot of expedition camps.

There are quite a few villages and sightseeing points along the way which add fuel to the fire of your trip and are sometimes enjoyed more than reaching the Everest base camp. The good thing about this trek is that it can be visited at any time of the year. However, fall or spring are considered best as the temperature is comfy and the skies are relatively clear during that. The accommodation consists of local tea shops which can be used to stay, but luxury lodges are also available.

Everest Base Camp

Gokyo Lakes Trek

This is the second most popular trek in the Everest region of Nepal and takes approximately 12 days to get past. As the name suggests, it has some stunning chilly lakes which are referred to as Gokyo, about 19 in total, which consist of the freshwater framework. By choosing this trek, you pass through the parallel valley to the small lakeside village of Gokyo.

Once up there, you can return to Lukla through the same way you went up or return through crossing over Cho La Pass, which is at the height of almost 18 k feet above the sea water to join with the Everest Base Camp Trek.

There are some stunning viewpoints, for example, the turquoise lakes which are at a fairly high altitude point, but they do demand some time. The best time is during spring and autumn because of warm temperature during the day and clear sky. There is a lot of variety in accommodations with tea shops being well developed.

Gokyo lakes trek

Three Passes Trek

This is the ultimate trekking experience. However, it does take over 20 days to complete, which is quite much. Nevertheless, it is kind of a combination of all the other treks in the Everest region and combines them, both in terms of viewpoints and the local culture, into one single challenging, adventurous trek.

Starting from the mountain airport of Lukla, it goes all the way up. The best season for this particular trek is Spring or Autumn as, during the Monsoon, it is highly unpredictable and hence a lot less safe. The accommodation and other facilities are good on this trek with food being healthy and lodges of high quality. The difficulty of this trek is harder than the former two listed. These are some of the Most popular treks in the Everest region of Nepal.