Yatra Magazine November 2016 | Buddha Air

Koshi Tappu

A Birdwatching Paradise

BUD

D

HA

Issue # 26 Nov. 2016

w w w . b u d d h a a i r . c o m

Mythical Mithila A weekend trailing the Ramayana in and around Janakpur

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uddha Air has completed its 19 years of successful operation in Nepali aviation sector

Highest payer in Tourism / Domestic flight

through tireless and honest services. During this period, we have been providing quality service with our eight aircrafts, making travel more

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accessible to domestic sectors in Nepal.

are comfortable and environment-friendly

On this occasion, we want to express our gratitude to all of our valuable passengers, travel and tour operators, national and international financial institutions, producers of aircrafts and engines, Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation and all well wishers for their continued support

CSR Program in Eastern Terai

Mechanized & SRI technology used in main cereal crops paddy farming on thousand bighas for betterment of Nepali farmers & food security

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and trust towards us and dedicate to renew our commitment to enhance our service standard in coming days.

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Namaste and welcome on board Buddha Air! It was on 11th October 1997 that we flew our first flight – an epic Everest Experience flight to view the beautiful Himalayas, on a Hawker Beechcraft. Over the years, as we gained your support and trust, we added more destinations and an ATR (ATR 42 & 72) fleet to provide you a comfortable journey. Thank you for being with us for almost two decades.

Janakpur is a destination of an epic and legendary history, which is explored in our cover story, “Mythical Mithila.” Also, read an exclusive interview with the Director General of Civil Aviation of Nepal (CAAN), Mr. Sanjiv Gautam. He talks about the plans of establishing new international airports in Nepal and the role of CAAN. The cultural heritage sites of Kathmandu are slowly being reconstructed after the earthquake.

Read “Recovering the National Treasures” to learn of the efforts undertaken by the government, organizations and the local communities to restore the sites. Besides these, you will also read about the scenario of airline business in Nepal, travelling to Manang, birdwatching opportunities at Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, and the local food Kathmandu Valley has in offer for your taste buds.

We want to hear from you. Send us your feedback, suggestions and articles to make your journey even better. We will be happy to receive stories and testimonials from our readers.

Thank you for choosing to fly with us. We hope you have a pleasant flight.

Birendra B. Basnet Managing Director, Buddha Air

In-flight magazine Jawalakhel, Lalitpur, Nepal e-mail: yatra@buddhaair.com Published by: Buddha Air Pvt. Ltd., Jawalakhel, Lalitpur, Nepal

Editorial Board Khagendra Bahadur Basnet Subarna Kharel UK Shrestha Ratna Rai D.K. Karna

Copy Editor Kabita Thapa

contents

Issue November 2016

cover story 16

Mythical Mithila

18

Chhath in Janakpur 24

Local Eateries to Look out For 3 2 Page Turner 1 2 Sky is the Limit Sanjiv Gautam, DG at CAAN

Recovering the National Treasures

6

interview 28

Koshi Tappu

A Birdwatching Paradise 14

Introducing an exclusive boutique with varieties of traditional wear in Kathmandu, Nepal! A & A Boutique aims to offer different varieties of traditional wear by providing an astonishing collection of Kashmiri Suits, Pashmina Suits, Cotton Suits, Designer Suits, Jaipuri Sarees, Banarasi Sarees, and Designer Sarees of different ranges!

g]kfnL x\ofÂŞ\u/df ljb]zL hxfhsf] dd{t

44

Jawalakhel, Lalitpur Buddha Air complex

April 25

Recovering the National Treasures A year and a half after the earthquake, the damaged historical sites still require much attention

A

6

s days pass after the earthquake, things have begun to gradually fall into place. Houses are being rebuilt as people move on with their daily lives. Even the occasional jolts that reminded people of the fateful day seem to have dwindled down to a twitch, hardly felt by anyone expect for the most cautious. Indrachowk, in central Kathmadu that was barren during the earthquake has come back

7

April 25

Bhaktapur Durbar Square on its feet, always crowded with shopkeepers, shoppers

the earthquake was to rescue the people who were

and porters alike. It seems as though there never was

buried under rubble. Even while digging, people were

an earthquake, if only it weren’t for the gaping, empty

equally cautious about their heritages.” says Alok

spaces where ancient temples used to be.

Siddhi Tuladhar, Cultural Anthropologist and founder

After the April 2015 earthquake that killed 8000

of ImPACT! Productions who led the documentation

people and destroyed thousands

process during the rebuilding of

of houses, the Department of

Hanuman Dhoka in Basantapur.

Archeology has stated that a total of 750 heritage sites were damaged in 20 districts of Nepal, out of which, most of the 133 sites that have been destroyed completely fall inside the Kathmandu valley. The rest have sustained partial damages.

The heritages that were damaged included world heritage sites such as the three Durbar Squares in Patan, Basantapur and Bhaktapur; Swayambhu Stupa, Boudha Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple.

“The

8

first

priority

right

after

After the April 2015 earthquake a total of 750 heritage sites were damaged in 20 districts of Nepal, out of which, most of the 133 sites that have been destroyed completely fall inside the Kathmandu valley

Locals around the heritage sites played a big role in helping to retrieve the fallen artifacts from temples and heritage sites. In places such as Bungamati where the temple of Rato Machchhindra had

completely

collapsed,

many volunteers helped to clear out the rubble within days of the

earthquake.

Organizations

working for heritage conservation such as the Kathmandu Valley Preservations Nations

Trust

and

Education,

United Scientific

Hanumandhoka Durbar Square

and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) were one of the

to help with the construction. One of the best examples

first bodies to respond, soon after, the Department of

of local people’s involvement in reconstructing heritage

Archeology and National Reconstruction Authority begun

sites can be seen in Boudha. Only a year and a half later,

to work out plans to rebuild the sites. But things have not

the Boudha stupa has been completely rebuilt. While in

been so easy. A lot of documentation and research is

Swayambhu, the Swayambhu Mahaguthi is helping to

required to make sure that the heritage sites be rebuilt in

reconstruct the damages sustained around the stupa

the same traditional way to help keep its historical value.

area by mobilizing funds collected from individuals and

Thus the restoration process has been slow.

foreign organizations. Another historical and religious site, the Pashupatinath temple has received donations from

Three Steps Forward

the Indian Government for the restoration of the main

But despite all the destruction, the earthquake seems

temples as well as its surrounding areas.

to have had a positive impact on the cultural heritage

The earthquake has also revealed surprising details from

sites. Many people have become aware about the need to preserve these heritage sites and the local

Conservators from Austria as they work on the reconstruction of the monuments which was damaged by the earthquake at Patan Durbar Square, Lalitpur

history,

while

digging up the remains of

Kasthmandap

in

Basantapur Durbar Square,

bodies have also united

it was revealed that the

with

to

foundation had nine holes

rebuild their own heritages.

dug in the form of a religious

Currently, the Government

mandala. “This fact was

of Nepal is providing Rs two

predicted

million to local committees

almost ten years ago.�

the

sentiment

by

a

priest

9

April 25

Metal frame supports the earthquake damaged Buddhist temple at Swoyambunath Temple

10

says Alok Tuladhar, “These religious

point in history. This involvement

values are the things we need to

of local manpower will also help

keep in mind while rebuilding. We cannot forget their cultural and historical importance.” he adds.

Tuladhar stresses the need for the historical methods and resources to be used during the reconstruction which

means

steel

beams,

concrete and metal infrastructures cannot be added to the structures.

While there have been additions of such in small scales, it has only been added to help strengthen the structures without compromising

After the April 2015 earthquake a total of 750 heritage sites were damaged in 20 districts of Nepal, out of which, most of the 133 sites that have been destroyed completely fall inside the Kathmandu valley

on the face of the architecture. In

to

preserve

the

sentimental

attachment that people have towards the sites.

One Step Back Although the rebuilding process has gradually begun, many issues regarding the use of concrete and the question of quality control has started to emerge. The Government of Nepal has been pledged to receive 4.2 billion rupees for the heritage

reconstruction

which

will be channelized through the National Reconstruction Authority

fact, restoring the heritage sites just as they used to be is

to various reconstruction processes with the approval of

not impossible. Many artisans from around Kathmandu

the Department of Archeology. However, the Department

have teamed up with cultural experts like Mukunda

of Archeology has given approval of the reconstruction

Acharya and Sanker Shrestha who are working to

projects to the lowest bidders. This has raised a question

remake the traditional structures. Kathmandu still has a

of quality. “We cannot build our heritage sites like we

lot of artisans who are skilled in the traditional arts such as

build bridges.” comments Tuladhar, “They are not just a

wood carving, metal craft and other handicrafts. Such

technical construction, they are a social construction.”

skills have been handed down to the artisans from their

In the case of Rani Pokhari, the memorial pond built by

ancestors who probably had rebuild temples at some

King Pratap Singh Malla 400 years ago, the use of concrete pillars to rebuild the Jamaleshwor Mahadev Temple also known as Balgopaleswor Temple in the middle of the pond was heavily protested and even made buzz on the social media. For now, the project has been halted until the problem gets sorted out. As legend has it, when Rani Pokhari was built by the king, he collected water from various holy bodies in Nepal and India to be added to the pond. “This legend is the reason why Rani Pokhari is precious in regards to any other pond.” says Tuladhar.

Such legends reflect the value of the heritage sites.

The government has set a timeline of 7 years to complete the restoration. As time goes on, more people have begun to take notice of the rebuilding process that has been going on. What we need to realize is that the heritages is a common treasure. Sure the government and other authoritative bodies may be carrying out the projects but it is the insight of the community and the people that really matter. After all, if the community takes the lead to rebuild each one of the 750 heritage sites, Nepal’s treasures will be rebuilt in no time.

11

Book

Page Turner They say that the world is a book and those who do not travel read only a page. But grab a book and you travel through the universe. They also make great companions during long journeys and hours of waiting in transition. Heres a list of the latest books to keep you company on any occasion.

1. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child by JK

personal, heartwarming and an honest

Rowling, Jack Thorne and John Tiffany

account of the actor’s life in the spotlight

Nineteen years after the death of

and his ordeal of dealing with his son’s

Voldemort, Harry works at the Ministry of

illness.

Magic and is the father of three children.

As Albus Severus Potter, Harry’s youngest

3. Abiram Baburam by Anil Thapa

son struggles with the family legacy he

Biography of one of Nepal’s most

travels to the past with the help of a Time

prominent politician, Dr. Baburam

turner. Now Harry has to relive the past in

Bhattarai, Awiram Baburam tells the story

more ways than one as Harry and Albus

of how Bhattarai got into communism,

try to fix it to the way it was. Based on the

how he got involved in the Maoist protest

play by Jack Thorne, Harry Potter and the

and his disputes with Prachanda and

Cursed Child is the eighth edition of the

controversies that most Nepalese are

Harry Potter series.

curious about. taking the biography on a more sentimental level, Abiram Baburam

2. The Kiss of Life by Emraan Hashmi and

also talks about Bhattarai’s childhood and school days.

Bilal Siddiqi The Kiss of Life shows Bollywood star, Emraan

4. Never Give Up: Jack Ma in his own words

by Suk Lee

Hashmi known for his eccentric movie roles playing the real-

The founder of Alibaba, Jack Ma’s rags to

life role as a father of a son

riches story is told in his own words through

battling with cancer. The book

more than 200 thought provoking and

is a memoir of his life through

candid quotes recorded by Suk Lee. Ma,

his teenage days to becoming

who has a massive influence in China

the controversial yet charming

has the world honoring him as one of the

actor today. The book is

geniuses of the 20th century global tech

world and this book provides an insight

regarding market trends and market

into the mind of one of the world’s most

operations. And although the share

successful business magnates.

market is dynamic, it’s good to get a heads up on where things are heading.

5. Sallipir by Nayan Raj Pandey

Sallipir is the seventh novel written by

7. Fulani by Khagendra Lamichhanne

author Nayan Raj Pandey. Unlike his

Fulani is the debut anthology of seven

previous works that are mostly set in the

short stories written by actor and director

terai region, this book is set in the Khumbu

Khagendra Lamichhanne known for his

region up in the Himalayas and tells the

roles in Talakjung vs. Tulke and Pashupati

story of its people and events. The story

Prasad. Set in rural Nepal, the book tells

revolves around three generations of a

the story of rural Nepal and the hardships

Sherpa community that reveals the way

that people face while living in harsh

of life of the Khumbu people. Friendship,

conditions. It reflects the harsh realities of

father-daughter relationship and social

life out in the villages.

issues are the novel’s highlights.

6. Share bata Karodpati by Rabindra Bhattarai

Money is a tricky game and those who learn how to get around it succeed in running things their way. But that is not always the case. One wrong move and things can go into a downward spiral Shayerbata Karodpati by Rabindra Bhattarai will act as a guide for investors

13

Nature

A Birdwatching Paradise Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

O

ccupying an area of 175 square kilometers, the

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is the smallest national park in the Terai plains of Nepal.

It lies on the floodplains of the Sapta Koshi River in south-eastern Terai.

The grassland area was gazetted in 1976 to preserve the dwindling populations of the wild buffalo and was declared a Ramsar site in 1987.

The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve provides shelter to 485 bird species.

Flocks of migratory birds visit the reserve during the winter and spring – from October to March, the perfect months for Birdwatching. Some migratory birds from Siberia and Tibet

14

Black-hooded Oriole (Oriolus xanthornus) sfnf]6fps]

;'gr/L

Black crown night heron af“s]

Lesser Adjutant stork (Leptoptilos javanicus)

as'Nnf

Swallow uf}+ynL

e'“8Lkmf]/ u?8

Citrine Wagtail a];f/]

l6sl6s]

15

Nature

Taking the early morning flight on Buddha Air from Kathmandu should get you to Biratnagar in 35 minutes.

Arrival at the airport and departure to Koshi Tappu.

Booking / Ticketing l Tel 01-5542494 / l Online www.buddhaair.com l Mobile App l Nearest travel agency Holiday Package l Tel 01-5521015, Ext: 119 l www.buddhaholidays.co

Cormorant hn]jf

Wood Sandpiper jg Red vented Bulbul h'/]nL

16

;'8;'l8of

Pied Kingfisher l5/la/]

df6Lsf]/]

fly to the reserve during winter. The Koshi barrage and the Koshi River are the best places to spot them. There are records of rare and endangered bird species like Bengal Florican, Sarus Crane, Black-necked Stork, Red-necked Falcon, etc.

But it’s not only birds that represent the reserve. The river is home to mugger crocodiles, turtles, fishes and Gangetic Dolphin. Animals like Blue Bull, Spotted Dees, Wild Boars and Hog Deer can spotted roaming around the reserve.

Plan your trip to Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve. Getting there is convenient – fly to Biratnagar and from the airport, use local transportation that gets you directly to the reserve. If you prefer a scenic route, you can take a bus from Kathmandu which could take up to Dove 9's'/

10 hours.

17

Cover Story

Mythical

Mithila

A weekend trailing the Ramayana in and around Janakpur

I

t is believed that the events leading up to the epic battle of Mahabharata had resulted in the disintegration of the ancient kingdom of Mithila. For long the kingdom revered as site of Sita’s prenuptial life and subsequent marriage to Ram, became

a mere memory - a myth among devotees. Much later, around the 16th and 17th centuries, owing to the Mughal takeover of Ayodha, Hindu sages began journeying northwards into the thick jungles of the Terai in search of Janakpur, the kingdom ruled

by Sita’s adoptive father Janak. A new settlement rose around the discoveries of artifacts by the first-arriving sages – remnants of a time when gods walked among men.

According to the Ramayana, during the twenty-third generation of the Videh dynasty a great drought afflicted the Mithila kingdom. In an effort to appease the god of rain, then King Janak performed a great sacrifice. Upon turning the soil emerged a baby lying in the furrow. King Janak named the baby Sita and raised as her own; the rest is history.

Although the story of Ramayana is ubiquitous for most Nepalis, many of us are still unware of the hidden gems of Janakpur that would intrigue even the biggest skeptics. A weekend in Janakpur is a great way to rediscover the Ramayana - to immerse in the pious livelihoods that thrive here.

19

Cover Story

Devotees doing parikarma of Janaki temple Day 1: The Story of the Bow

a southbound bus to Jaleshwor, close to the

When Sita became a maiden, King Janak

Indian border. Here you’ll find one of the most

created a challenge to secure her the most

sacred Shiva temples of the region. Women

fitting suitor. A bow belonging to Lord Shiva that

from all walks of life fill the grounds of the temple

had been bestowed to the protection of the

during special occasions to be blessed with

kingdom became the deciding vote. It is said

water from a pool that is believed to be holy.

that 50,000 men were required to lift the bow

A visit to Dhanush Mandir is then the

into the palace complex, whereas Ram not

appropriate way to conclude the first day of

only lifted the recurve without struggle, but also

your travel. The temple complex lies some 15 km

broke it into three pieces while stringing it. One

north of Janakpurdham and is said to be the site

piece is said to have flown towards the sky, one

where the bow piece that entered hell is slowly

fell on earth and the final piece went deep into

protruding out of the earth. Here you will find

hell. It was through this display of strength Ram

the most surreal and intriguing corroboration

was revealed to the kingdom as the Lord of the

of the Ramayana. An ancient tree sits within

heavens, hell and earth.

the main temple where rock formation appear

The

town

of

Janakpurdham

sprawls

outwards from a concentrated mesh of houses

along the roots. Locals say that the formation has been growing outwards slowly.

around the world-renowned Janaki Mandir. For

Back in Janakpurdham your first evening

this reason the best way to spend your first day

can be spent along the tranquil waters of Maha

in Janakpur is to venture out of town and visit

Gangasagar, where regular nocturnal aratis

temples that lie at distance. Starting with the

are a must see. Maha Gangasagar is the largest

bow pieces takes you out of the main town

of the many ponds that dot the locality and is

which is also an opportunity to visit other places.

connected to Dhanushsagar by a channel.

Dhanushsagar, a pristine pond located

Locals believe that dipping in Gangasagar is

at a few minutes walk from the main town

equivalent to a dip in the actual Ganga.

center, is a great introduction to a devotee’s

On the Southeastern corner of Gangasagar

life in Janakpur. The pond lies opposite the Ram

lies the newly constructed Bhootnath Temple

Mandir and is said to be the site where one-third

complex, which has a beautiful garden to stroll

of the broken bow landed. Dhanushsagar is a

through before heading back to the hotel.

site of daily ablutions for devotees and presents the strong bond between water and Madhesis.

20

Day 2: Holy Matrimony

From the pond, walk over to Zero Mile,

The coupling of Ram and Sita through

the local bus park, where you can hop onto

matrimony is seen as an important part of

Ram Sita Vibah Mandap

Inside view of Vibah Mandap

Janakpur’s ancient history. The divine couple

boasts of carved marble interiors and are home

is most celebrated within the famous Janaki

to statuettes of Sita, Ram and his half-brothers.

Mandir. Built in Hindu Rajput architectural style

The best time to visit the temple is early

with influences from Islamic traditions, the

Saturdays around 8 am. Devotees and priests

temple was commissioned by an Indian queen

pray and chant in unison till the statues inside

who spared no expense in marking the exact

are revealed and blessing is offered soon after.

site where Sita lived with her monarch father.

Evenings are also enchanting as devotees

It is believed that the sage Mahanth Surya

light lamps and park themselves around the

Kishor Das discovered a golden statue of Sita

temple complex. There is also a small collection

where the temple sits and forms the heart of the

of kinetic exhibits that retell the story of Sita’s

town. Its bright white walls and domes adorned

adoption and early life. This museum is located

with red and green colors are brilliant under the

to the southwest of the main sanctum and is

sun. The main sanctum in the inner courtyard

open throughout the day.

Cover Story

Jaleshwor Mahadev Temple Adjoined to the Janaki Mandir is Bibah

temple. Inside, life size marble statues of Ram

Mandap, which marks the site of the divine

and Sita are found along with other noted

marriage. Designed by a Kathmandu-based

characters of the Ramayana.

architect and built under official patronage in

Close by, across the main road from the

1970s, this Mandap is constructed in pagoda

Mandap lies the Rangamanch. A vast open

style of Kathmandu Valley and looks somewhat

ground (locally known as the bahra biga) is a

incongruous,

the

site for mass gathering and celebration on the

magnificent Mughal-Rajput specimen of built

day of Bibha Panchami, the day when Ram

form. However, some of the carved marble

and Sita’s matrimonial union

seating

right

next

to

columns of the Mandap are from the same

For the afternoon, travel to the Janakpur

quarry in Central India from where materials

Railway

Station,

Nepal’s

only

station

for

were procured for the construction of the main

locomotive travel. The station is currently

Mithila Painting

Souvenirs prepared by local lady

28

Sculpturing

Dhanushadham Temple Flying with Buddha Air from Kathmandu to Janakpur should get you there in 25 minutes.

Arrival at the airport and check in to the hotel.

Booking / Ticketing l Tel 01-5542494 / l Online www.buddhaair.com l Mobile App l Nearest travel agency Holiday Package l Tel 01-5521015, Ext: 119 l www.buddhaholidays.co

Parshuram Temple complex on the way to Dhanush Mandir undergoing construction but can offer a

social cause is to visit the Janakpur Women’s

glimpse of the Indian railway system that has

Development Committee (JDWC).

influenced all of the subcontintent.

Established in 1992, JDWC has revived the

For the remainder of evening, Janakpur’s

Mithila artistic traditions (which is also linked

many street vendors and other temples provide

to the Ramayana) to benefit women of the

great engagement and sampling of local eats.

region. Using a variety of media, they export and sell traditional Mithila paintings, ceramics,

Day 3: Souvenirs with a Social Cause

mirrors, printed fabrics and much more. JDWC is

Being a pilgrimage site, most shops in

located in the midst of peaceful mango groves

Janakpurdham do not cater to tourists. Other

close by the airport. It has a beautiful courtyard

than basic necessities and ingredients for

decorated with wall reliefs that are otherwise

rituals and offerings little can be found in the

not visible in other parts of Janakpur.

way of souvenirs. A great alternative to taking home Janakpur’s heritage while supporting a

23

Festivities

Chhath in Janakpur

W

ater plays a central role in the lives of the Madhesis.

In Janakpur alone there are countless cisterns that

sustain local livelihoods and facilitate daily as well as occassional rituals. This bond between life-giving water and people in the Southern plains is most pronounced during certain times of the year.

25

Festivities

Besides Dashain (Dashera) and

eaten. On the second day, people

Tihar (Deepawali), one of the most

observe fasting for the entire day (or

auspicious times for Madhesis is the

as long as 36 hours) and worship the

Chhath festival. Named so for its

earth.

timing on the 6th day in the month of Kartik, the festival sees women from all walks of life, along with their families, offer salutations to the rising as also to the setting sun. Through a rigorous couple of days men and women worship the sun god Surya and his female form Chhat Maiya by congregating at holy waterbodies.

The rituals and processes of the festival begin a few days earlier and are very demanding. It begins with purification and fasting. Water

Visitng Janakpur during Chhath can be an insightful moment for tourists who seek to understand the way practices differ from the other ethnic communities and geographies.

becomes an important motif in the entire process. In fact many

On the third day, which falls on

followers tend to spend much of their

the Kartik Shukla Shashti, evening

observance of the Festival along a

offerings are made to the setting

pond or a lake.

sun. The day is used for preparing

On the first day of Chhath, people

the Prasad and the whole family

take a dip in the closest revered

accompanies the devotee to the

waterbody and bring home water

waterbody. Once the offering is

to prepare offering. During this day

made, people celebrate with cultural

homes and surroundings are cleaned

programs, music and dance. Folk

thoroughly and only one meal is

songs sung in this time are about the culture, social structure, history and mythology of Mithila and its vicinity.

A final activity is the late lighting of oil lamps that are kept under a canopy of sugarcane ticks that symbolize the human body.

On the final day of Chhath, devotees along with their families and friends go the waterbody before sunrise and make the final offering to the rising sun. This concludes the long fast taken on the second day of the Festival.

Beyond the large number of people dressed in colorful saris and their picturesque movements in and

around shallow waters, the rigorous processes has much to do with yogic understanding of the body as conductive channels of energy.

Process and rituals observed prepare the devotees’ bodies to be in sync with the solar radiation of the sun and thus create the necessary grounding for cosmic solar energy infusion.

Visitng Janakpur during Chhath can be an insightful moment for tourists who seek to understand the way practices differ from the other ethnic communities and geographies.

27

Interview

28

Sky is the Limit Sanjiv Gautam, Director General at Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) talks to Buddha Air about Nepali skies and its future plans to establish three new international airports.

Tell us about your journey in the aviation sector of Nepal.

It has been 26 years since I started

basically like a body with two heads, one to check regulations and another to provide necessary services and trainings.

working in CAAN. Initially, I worked at Air travel to almost all the domestic airports in

Can you tell us about the TIA expansion plans?

Nepal. In 2001, I left the Air Traffic Control

As it is pretty obvious that the Tribhuwan

sector and got into the management level

International Airport has already reached

of the institution. I was elected as the Director

its capacity, before the new international

General of CAAN around 16 months ago

airlines can be completed, the current one

after having served as a Deputy Director

and only airport needs to be able to hold

General for a while. Having served for so

a larger number of aircrafts. However, the

long in this sector, I have experienced many

process has been slow. The project was

changes that have occurred over the years.

initiated 3 years ago but till now, only about

In the past, only a few domestic airlines used

17% has been completed. There have been

to fly but today we’ve got 18 airlines that fly

some issues that are delaying the project but

on a regular basis. Even the technology has

things look better now. The expansion plans

changed over the years as new innovations

will be utilizing the empty areas around the

keep improving the quality of work that we

TIA to help expand the airport’s capacity.

Traffic Control. During those days, I got to

do. Nepal’s aviation sector has definitely come a long way.

How is the establishment of the new international airports coming along?

What role does CAAN play in Nepal’s aviation sector?

international airports. I’m sure you’ve already

In simple terms, CAAN is a regulatory

heard of the Gautam Buddha Airport in

authority for all the aerial activities that take

Bhairawa and the recently initiated Pokhara

place. It is also a service provider as we

International Airport. The government has

provide training, flight authority and safety

also allocated a certain budget for a new

oversight for each aircraft. The CAAN is

airport to be established in Nijgadh, Bara.

We are currently working to establish 3 new

29

Interview

Because of the fuel crisis that occurred last year along with the border blockade, the progress for the Gautam Buddha airport has been slow. Despite the target to finish the airport by 2018, only 25% of the work has been completed so far. However, on a brighter note, the Pokhara Airport is gaining pace and it seems that the airport will be completed before its deadline of 2020. As for the Nijgadh airport, 1400 household of the area need to be relocated before the construction of the airport can take place. So for now, we’re looking to relocate the current settlers.

Nepal’s aircrafts have been banned from European airports for a while now, how is CAAN dealing with this?

The ban has raised a lot of questions on the safety of Nepal’s aircrafts. However, when such aircraft accidents occur, it affects us the most.

Whether it is a domestic flight or an international one, CAAN needs to ensure their safety. When it comes to human and machine interface, zero percent accident rates are impossible to achieve but we are still trying to lower the rate.

2009 to 2013 were dark times for Nepal’s aviation that questioned the flight safety of the aircrafts.

But since 2013, there has been a gradual increase on the Significant Safety Concern.

We’ve taken measures such as providing safety training programs and creating strict policies for pilots. It is a tedious job but an important one.

Having travelled to 65 out of the 75 districts of Nepal, Mr. Sanjiv Gautam has experienced it all, from the peaks of Himalayas to the southern plains. According to Gautam, his favorite places to visit are Khaptad with its greenery and Ilam’s tea estates. But his ideal vacation would be to visit the remaining 10 districts that he hasn’t been to. Gautam says, “My wish is to set foot on all the 75 districts of Nepal. That would be the ideal vacation.”

30

Food

Local Eateries to Look out For T

hey say that the best secrets are hidden in plain sight

and it cannot be truer for local Nepali eateries known as “bhattis” or “khaja ghars”. Famous for their traditional cuisine and homemade liquor, each alley has its own favorite. While most of these places may not be known for their décor or

Newa Lahana

service, they have been tried and tested through time and gets the verdict from all who visit these places. Here are some of Kathmandu’s famous

Newa Lahana, Kirtipur One cannot talk about bhattis and miss out on the ultimate

bhattis for you to discover

experience at Newa Lahana located at Kirtipur. Although you

but do remember there

wouldn’t exactly call the place a “bhatti” since it is spread

are definitely many

out over an unfinished building, the Newari food that you get

more hidden out there

there does not compromise on the authentic bhatti taste. The

among the narrow alleys.

place also serves up some of the lesser known Newari cuisines

Anywhere you go, simply

like fried buffalo lungs, tongue and even the Newari Bhwe

ask for the famous bhatti

set complete with more than ten side dishes. Add to that the

around and you won’t fail

traditional straw mat laid out to sit on the floors and the staff

to have one of the best

and chefs wearing traditional Newari clothes, Newa Lahana

local dining experiences.

is a place to behold. The wide range of food available here will keep you coming back for more as you simply cannot try all the dishes in one visit.

32

Honacha, Patan Durbar Square Located in the heart of Patan behind the Krishna Temple, Honacha is a must go-to place. Despite its small size and limited seats, it is always crowded with locals and outsiders alike. With a history of almost 60 years in service, the original place hasn’t changed much, except for the fact that there are two Honachas now that belong to two brothers of the family. Both the places are as good and even the

Honacha, Patan

33

Food

location is set just a house or two apart. One of its signature dishes are the haku chhoeyla, spicy, seared cuts of buffalo meat and mixed spicy aloo and the kima bara, bean patties with minced meat. But if you want to try these, make sure you get there before the afternoon tea time, before it all get sold out.

Kwacha, Chyasal, Patan Durbar Square If Honacha is too crowded you try the Kwacha. About 15 minutes away towards Chyasal, Kwacha is another local favorite. But don’t expect big signboards to reveal the place to you. You might have to ask around to find out where the place is. Kwacha offers up most of the common Newari delicacies like chhoeyla, wo and aalu tama but their popular dishes are Takhaa and Nyakhuna, gelatinous stews made from buffalo and its spicier version mixed with bits of fish. Also make sure you try the duck chhoeyla.

34

Kwacha, Chyasal

Gyanlal Bara Pasal, Thimi

Gyanlal Bara Pasal, Thimi Gyanlal Bara Pasal run by Gyan dai himself, this place serves up the best baras. Specializing in baras of different kinds, such as the egg bara, plain veg bara and keema bara. You can also find other items on the menu but don’t skip out on the place’s specialty. It is located near the Balkumari Temple in Thimi, once you reach there, simply ask for “Gyan dai ko bhatti pasal” and you will certainly end up in the doorsteps of bara heaven.

35

Manang

On the Soil of

Manang

n Indu Dhungana

I

t was the last week of September. After crossing the traffic from Nagdhunga to Naubise, the expanse of greenery and the fresh air made left us feeling refreshed. Our land cruiser

was moving towards Mungling. Finally we crossed the Mungling Bridge and started our journey for Besishahar.

We left the Mugling-Pokhara road from Dumre and took another way towards Besishahar. The Dumre-Besishahar road is named after Bhanubhakta Acharya, the first Nepali poet. We crossed mountains showered with clouds, river basin and paddy fields. We reached the Getaway Himalaya Resort, Besishahar at 4 PM. It was a misty evening accompanied with light rain.

37

Manang

Chame-Manang Road As per our schedule, we decided to spend

our team leader, we got a chance to go by

one night in Besishahar and it was really nice

our own vehicles. The syndicate is an illegal

to have a typical Nepali meal. The next

act in Nepal, but either government officials

morning, we were feeling curious as we were

are very weak to implement the rules and

starting our journey towards Manang, the

regulations or they are taking under-table

district with the lowest population of Nepal

bribes from local transport owners.

and is known as 'Himal Pariko Jilla'.

We crossed Nepal's first and only tunnel road built by Upper Marsyangdi Hydropower

It was an exciting trip for me. We begun

Project. The project is a joint venture of

our journey towards Chame, the district

Chinese and Nepali investors. The tunnel is

headquarter of Manang from Besishahar. The

very short, only about 5 meters, but it is Nepal's

Local transportation management committee

only vehicle accessible tunnel.

tried to interrupt us, because of the syndicate

On the way to Chame, we took a brunch

of jeep owners. After some bargaining from

at Sangye, a beautiful mountain base of Lamjung. There is a very nice waterfall near the hotel which is known as Sangye Jharana.

The heavy rainfall couldn't stop us from capturing the wonderful moments!

Again, we started to move towards Chame. Stones and sands were the only things we could see on the road throughout the journey. There were turnings every 2 minutes but I enjoyed it, because I had never experienced off road riding.

We took lunch at Chymche, Lamjung.

This is a very beautiful Marsyangdi basin, overshadowed by two black mountains.

We were moving through jeep from the Annapurna Tracking Route. The route is supposed to be used only for trekking but

Manang Airport

38

the motorway constructed by government

Apple Farm We

made it difficult for trekking.

crossed

the

Tal

and

reached

When we reached the border of Lamjung-

Dharapani, where we visited the first Rainbow

Manang, we were stuck for almost two hours

Trout farm of Manang. According to a Nepali

because a truck was not functioning near

fish expert, fishes are not available at Manang,

the wooden bridge at the Myadi stream. The

because it doesn't have appropriate water

single lane road was totally blocked by the

current for fish. The high and fast water

truck and our jeep could not pass through

flow doesn't allow fish to grow at rivers and

it. However, after two hours, the workers

water bodies of Manang. But, entrepreneur

managed to pull it up by tractor and I put my

Lokendra Ghale ventured into something

feet for the first time on the soil of Manang.

new and beyond the natural availability of

bridge

Manang and started Rainbow Trout farm in

of Myadi, we started to move via high

high altitudes. It was quite an inspiring initiation

Himalayan terrain, where we could only see

by Ghale, where he invested 6 million Nepali

Black Mountains. We were unfortunate in

Rupees to start up his farm.

After

crossing

the

wooden

the sense that, it was off season to visit such

After enjoying the trout, we moved

a beautiful place. If it was winter, we might

towards Chame, where we had to spend

have seen snow-capped Mountains.

the night. When we started our journey

39

Manang

from Dharapani, it was almost evening, so we

When

we

reached

the

Pisang

VDC-1,

were bound to cross the challenging road in

Bhratang, the proprietor of Agro Manang apple

the cold and dark evening. We crossed at least

farm greeted us. Agro Manang is the largest

half a dozen wooden bridges and many small

apple farm of Nepal, which covers an area of

falls that evening. I used to put my right palm

715 Ropani. Polden Chopang Gurung, the owner

on my left chest, while crossing these deadly

of Manang Agro is going to build a modern hotel

wooden bridges, where we could see notices

near his farm along with cold storage. Chame-

about worthiness of these bridges given by road

Manang road moves through the middle of

department of Nepal and it had the limit of three

the farm. Gurung is going to give agro-tourism

tons.

package for domestic and international tourist

We tried to convert our apprehension to

in the near future. He has already invested 160

adventure that evening and our driver did the

million Nepali rupees and is going to add 50 million

same. We crossed many turnings and landside,

more within two years. It was quite surprising and

bridges and black stone Mountains and finally

an inspiring story for Nepali society; where most of the people choose to go abroad to earn money.

After

some

chitchat

with

Gurung,

we

continued our drive towards Manang. We crossed the Manang Airport, where people are not getting regular flights for the last three years.

Unlike other airports in hilly areas of Nepal, this airport is black topped but, people prefer using the roads rather than flying after the opening the Besishahar-Chame road. At noon, we reached Manang and enjoyed lunch with Yak meat. It was quite expensive than others places. We have to pay at least 600 rupees for one meal!

After lunch we took selfies and wefies in Gaangapurna Lake near Manang Bazaar, which is situated at the height of 3500 meters from sea level. The Annapurna Himal was shining and the red colour of the buckwheat field added more beauty to Manang valley. Buckwheat is one of reached Chame; a small valley situated at the bank of Marsyangdi.

40

the most grown food grains in this range.

In

the

evening,

we

bid

'farewell'

to

Some of my friends were so scared because

Gaangapurna Lake and Annapurna Himal along

of the high altitude and started to bite pieces

with the beautiful terrain of Manang. Our jeep

of garlic and some started to enjoy Old Durbar

was moving towards Chame, where we had to

Whiskey. I took a cup of hot water and enjoyed

spend the night. The next day, we left Chame for

it in the cold with a warm local meal. The next

Besishahar. We crossed many wooden bridges,

morning, we stepped towards Manang. When

many falls, many turnings from Marsyngdi River

we left Chame, it was very exciting for me. I

basin, like the water pass through Himalaya to

was about to enter the cold desert of Nepal. As

Middle Himalayan and Mahbharat to Terai.

we were passing through a variety of valleys of

Though, I said goodbye to 'Himal Pariko Jilla',

Manang district, the light rain welcomed us along

the mesmerizing mountain terrain of Manang is

with the snow-white clouds.

still in my mind.

Travel Tips

Fly Smart

Arrive at the Airport Early

E

ven before you have reached the airport, the people

Arriving at the airport just 10-15 minutes before departure

responsible for your flight are working in coordination to

is not enough. Make the smart and informed decision and

provide you comfortable journey. These include the efforts

arrive early at the airport for your next flight with us.

of your booking agent, ground handling staff, airport security staff, engineers and the flight crew.

An aircraft needs to be perfectly balanced to fly safely and efficiently. To do so would require calculations regarding fuel, number of passengers, weight of checked baggage, distance of flight, duration of flight, etc. These calculations need time, care and consideration – which is why most airlines always advice you to arrive at the airport early.

As a rule of thumb, in Nepal, if you are flying long-haul destinations (international flights) you will need to be at the airport 2-3 hours before your departure time. For short-haul flights (domestic destinations), it is 1 hour.

• ONE HOUR BEFORE FLIGHT TIME – is printed in bold on all our tickets, informing you to be at the airport early.

• Arriving at Nepal’s domestic airports an hour earlier gives you time to go through security screening, checking your baggage and getting your boarding pass for your flight.

• Peak travel seasons have longer check-in lines, so it is advisable to be at the airport earlier than an hour.

• If you have baggage / luggage to check in, arrive earlier than an hour.

• Take note of alternative routes or transportation as you may sometimes get stuck in traffic jams or congestions.

• Furthermore, passengers may be on the waiting list, and if you do not check in on time, you may lose your seat to the waiting passenger.

41

Opinion

Rajin Ranjit

Insights to the Airline Industry

MIS Director, Buddha Air

How do you become a millionaire?

“You start off as a billionaire and then open an

Considering the vital and invaluable service it provides to make the world a smaller place, why is the airline industry

airline,” quipped Sir Richard Branson when he was asked

synonymous with ongoing losses and insolvency?

this question. Sir Branson is an English business magnate,

• Operating an airline is an expensive business. Most in

investor, philanthropist and founder of Virgin Group. His

the industry take loans or buy aircrafts on lease just to

airline, Virgin America, consistently lost money even though

keep flying.

it won accolades for its staff, service, and overall customer experience.

• Computers have automated many tasks, but the airline industry is a highly personalized service industry. Pilots,

As The World Economist puts it, “Airlines are wonderful

flight attendants, baggage handlers, mechanics,

generators of profit—for everyone except themselves.” Of

reservation agents, cleaners, lawyers, managers, etc

everyone involved in the travel industry, airlines have the

are on monthly payroll adding to a high incurring fixed

slimmest profit margins.

cost. Labor costs per employee are among the highest

In the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the US

compared to other industries.

airlines lost US$30 million between 2000 and 2005. This

• A positive cash flow of airlines is used to repay debt or

includes wage cuts of over US$ 15 billion and 100,000

acquire new aircrafts. When the profits or cash flows

employees laid off. Even with this dire situation, the US

decline, the ability to for debt repayment and acquiring

Federal Government provided US$4.6 billion in a onetime

new aircraft diminishes.

subject-to-income-tax cash payment to 427 airlines – with

• Investors in the airline industry do not enjoy high profit

no provision for repayment. Loan guarantees were also

returns – causing them to rethink a thousand times

provided to 6 airlines totaling US$1.6 billion.

before investing. Airline profits are volatile and riskier

A similar situation prevails in Nepal and India where the governments support their national airlines, no matter how much loss the airlines make. Analysts have been critical

than those of airports and aviation service providers.

• Airlines suffer from low profitability margins especially during unpredictable circumstances.

of “dumping” tax payers’ money into the airline industry,

• The industry is highly regulated due to political,

just to prevent it from bankruptcy. Regardless of what the

economic and safety concerns. New airlines find it

analysts say, the governments always come to the rescue

difficult to sustain in the long run. Furthermore, restrictive

of national airlines, which is unique to this industry.

practices make it difficult for new airlines to obtain slots

The high capital requirement in the initial phase and in the long run makes the airline industry volatile and critical.

in the airport. This remains an obstacle for new airlines to secure its place in Kathmandu Airport.

There are many cases of airlines going bankrupt in Nepal

• Domestic carriers are dependent on the state of the

and globally. Six major airlines went through bankruptcy

national economy. When a country faces economic

from 1979 to 2014, and the industry lost US$35 billion. In

recession or slowdown, flyers choose affordable

January 2010, Japan Airlines was declared bankrupt,

alternatives like roads or trains. Fewer business travels

joining the swelling ranks of insolvent airlines.

are planned and fewer tourists travel to the country.

42

unforeseen challenges, our priority and core focus will always be to make pleasant,

affordable,

safest

and

comfortable journey for our esteemed passengers. We have been putting all our effort to overcome this in Buddha Air with a unique business model which shall deem as a role model in airline industry. Our long term dedication, transparent

systems,

management

processes and by the books operation Airlines have to fly with empty seats causing them to

have proven fruitful only because of contribution of more

face a liquidity crisis.

than 750 loyal and result oriented staffs along with dynamic

The last few points hold true in Nepal as the country

leadership and vision required for the success in any kind of

suffers through the effects

of natural calamities and

political

tourism

turmoil.

As

a

dependent country, Nepal had only 40% travelers visiting – which is a major income source for domestic airlines.

business platform.

Services Services

KMD KMD

There are a few airlines in Nepal

KMD KMD

which have a track record of operating more than a decade without filing for bankruptcy. Profitability hits hard when airlines in Nepal face situations like

Aviation Aviation

Engineering Engineering

Treaty Treaty

Structured Structured Solutions Solutions

rise in fuel prices and the inability to raise the fare in proportion to the rising costs. The industry is still in turmoil as the Fare Revision Process is controlled

Liabilityy

Liabilityy

by the ministry and has been pending

Marine

Personal

Marine (Hull/Cargo) (Hull/Cargo)

Direct Direct Insurance

Personal Lines Lines

Insurance

since 2011. The domestic airlines are suffering from the revision gap process, high fixed costs and low profit margins.

The airline business is not as lucrative

Terrorism

Terrorism

Construction

Health

Construction

Health

as reported by the International Air

Rural and

Employee

Agriculture Rural and Agriculture

Benefits Employee Benefits

KMD

Transport Association (IATA) or ICAO. 18

It is even more difficult in scenarios where few established airlines have consolidated

the

whole

market

with their unique business models

KMD

18

in a regulated market. Preparing for unsustainable competition may jeopardize the whole aviation industry but the only sufferer will be the airline itself.

Regardless

of

threats

and

K.M. Dastur

K M Dastur Reinsurance Brokers Pvt. Ltd. An ISO 9001:2000 company certified BY TUV Germany Lloyd’s y Brokers ((K.M Dastur & Company p y - London)) Website: www.kmdastur.com

Eros Theatre Building, 5th floor, Jamshetji Tata Road, Churchgate, Mumbai - 400020

43

Hangar

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44

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Pet Etiquette

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46

sf

7df8f}a+ f6 cfkm\gf ;fyLefO;“u klxnf] k6s n'lDagLsf nflu lx8] sL lk|of zdf{n] cfkm\gf] Kof/f] …af]uÚ' -s's/' _ nfO{ cfkm";u“ } gNofO{ ;lsgg\ . pgsf kl/jf/ hgn] s's/' Kn]gdf ;fy nfg kfOb}g eGbf eGb} klg c+uh ]| L rnlrqsf] k|efjdf k/]sL lk|ofnfO{ h;/L klg cfkm\gf] s's/' ;“u} nfg' lyof] . cGttM ljdfg:ynsf sd{rf/Lx?n] pQm s's/' kmsf{PlbP . sf7df8f}s + L lk|of t Ps k|ltlglw 36gf dfq xf] . s's/' tyf cGo hgfj/x? cfkm";u“ } hxfhdf lnP/ lx+8g\ kfOG5 eg]/ b]vs ] f] jf ;'gs ] f] e/df lgod / k|lqmof ga'lem cfkm\ gf 3/kfn'jf hgfj/sf ;fy ljdfg:yn k'Ug] ofq'sf nflu ljdfg:yn tyf ;Dj4 Po/ nfoG;sf sd{rf/Lsf nflu klg plQs} ;f:tL x'G5 . g]kfndf klg, xlnp8 lkmNd b]lvP em}+ 3/kfn'jf hgfj/ cfkm";u“ } lnP/ xjfO{ofqf ug{ kfOG5 . t/ To;sf nflu s]xL k|lqmofx? eg] ofq' tyf Po/nfoG; sDkgL b'jn } ] k'¥ofpg' kg]{ x'G5 . g]kfndf a'4 Po/ cfkm\gf] sfuf] { ;] jfdf 3/kfn'jf hgfj/nfO{ ;d]t ofq's} uGtJo;Dd k'¥ofOlbg] ;]jf k|bfg ub{5 . t/ o;sf nflu xjfO{ ;'/Iff / ;'ljwfsf lx;fan]

s]xL lgodx?sf] eg] kfngf ug'{ kg]{ x'G5 . s] ug'{ k5{ < a'4 Po/sf] ljdfgaf6 olb tkfO{+ ofqf ub}{ x'gx' G' 5 / ;fydf cfkm\gf] 3/kfn'jf hgfj/ nfg] OR5f nfu]df ;'?df a'4 Po/ sf] sfuf]{ sfof{nodf hfgsf/L u/fP/ cfkm"n] nfg rfx]sf] hgfj/sf] ljj/0f;lxt clu|d a'lsË u/fpg' kb{5 . o;n] ljdfgsf sfuf] s { f sd{rf/L tyf rfnsbnsf ;b:onfO{ tkfO{n + ] cfkm";fy nfg rfx]sf] hgfj/sf af/]df Joj:yfkg ug{ d2t k'¥ofp“5 . æclu|d a'lsË u/fpgsf nflu tkfO{n + ] cfkm\gf] l6s6 lnPsf] 6«fen Ph]G6dfkm{t jf a'4 Po/sf] sfuf]{ sfof{nosf] ;Dks{ g+= )!–$$&&#@! df kmf]g u/]/ clu|d a'lsË u/fpg ;Sg'xG' 5 . sf7df8f}e + Gbf aflx/sf] xsdf clu|d a'lsË u/fpgsf nflu ;DalGwt :yfgsf] a'4 Po/ sf] sfof{nodf ;Dks{ ug{ ;Sg'xg' 5 ] ,Æ cfkm\gf] ;]jfsf af/]df atfpb} a'4 Po/sL sfuf]{ l8lehg k|dv ' ;DejL a:tfsf]6Ln] atfOg\ . bf];f| ] r/0fdf cfkm"n] ;fy} nfg rfx] sf] hgfj/ sf nflu lns gx'g] jf lns]h k|k' m afs;sf] Joj:yf ug'k{ g]{ x'G5 . æo:tf afs;x? ahf/df ;lhn} lsGg kfOG5 jf

olb tkfO{Fn] Nofpg g;s]s ] f] v08df a'4 Po/ sf sd{rf/Lx?n] ofqf cjlwsf nflu tkfO{n + fO{ pQm afs; ljdfg:ynd} pknAw u/fpg]5g\,Æ a:tfsf]6Ln] yk hfgsf/L lbb} elgg\ . o:tf afs; leq /fv]/ ^ dlxgfeGbf sd pd]/sf] s's/' jf lj/ fnf]sf aRrfx? -a9Ldf b'Oj{ 6f_, jo:s s's/' jf lj/fnf]sf] xsdf a9Ldf ( s]hL tf}n ePsf], lj/fnf], ;'uf jf cGo kz'kI+ fL jf ev{/} hlGdPsf s'v/' fsf rNnfx? -hGd]sf] Ps lbg leqdf_ tkfO{s + f nflu kz'x?sf] oftfoftsf] k|aGw ldnfOG5 . oL ;a} r/0fx?df ;a}eGbf dxŒjk"0f{ kIf eg] sf tkfO{n + ] cfkm";u“ } nfgrfx]sf] kz'sf] :jf:Yo cj:yfsf] k|df0fkq xf] . ofqf ug]{ lbgdf !) lbg gs6]sf] kz'sf] :jf:Yo ljj/0f pNn]v ug]{ kz' lrlsT;sn] k|dfl0ft u/]sf] k|df0fkq lagf kz'sf] sfuf]{ ug{ kfOb} g . o;sf nflu tkfO{n + ] cfkm\gf] kz' lrlsT;s jf sfuf]{ sfof{nosf] ;Dks{df /x]sf kz' lrlsT;saf6 ;xof]u lng ;Sg'xg' 5 ] .

dfly pNn]v ul/Psf ;a} zt{x? k'/f eP gePsf] olsg ug{sf nflu sfuf]s { f sd{rf/Lx?n] Ps r]slni6sf] k|of]u ub{5g\ . To;kZrft tkfO{n + ] lhp“bf] hgjf/sf] nflu :j3f]if0ff ul/g] l;k;{ kmf/d dfkm{t sfuf]s { f ;dodf tkfO{n] nfg OR5f ug'{ ePsf] hgfj/sf] k|fs[lts sf/0fn] d[To' jf 3fOt] ePdf a'4 Po/ lhDd]jf/ x'g] 5}g eGg] kmf/d e/]/ x:tfIf/ ug'{ kg]{ x'G5 . o:tf k|fs[lts sf/0fx?df hgfj/x?sf] 6f]sfO{, emu8f, 3fp jf cGo cËaf6 x'g] /Qm>fj, tfkdfgsf] 36a9 jf cGo o:t} sf/0fx? kb{5g\ . olb ofqfsf] bf}/fg kz'sf] d[To' ePdf, pQm kz'sf] zjnfO{ e]6g] /L lrlsT;ssf] df hf“rsf nflu k7fOG5 / lrlsT;sn] k|bfg ug] { k|ltj]bg ;a} ;DalGwt kIfnfO{ k|bfg ul/g]5 . oL

hfgsf/Lx? sfuf]s { f sd{rf/L jf ljdfg:ynsf a'4 Po/sf sd{rf/Lx?af6 klg lng ;lsG5 . s:tf] cj:yfdf 3/]n' hgfj/x?sf] sfuf]{ x'bg} < olb tkfO{sf] 3/]n' hgfj/nfO{ s'g} /f]u nfu]sf] ePdf jf 3fOt] jf 3fp rf]6k6s nfu]sf] ePdf, kz' ue{jtL ePdf cyjf uGtJosf] ljdfg:ynn] To:tf] sfuf]s { f nflu cg'dlt glbPdf tkfO{Fsf] 3/ kfn'jf hgfj/sf] sfuf]{ x'bg} . To;}u/L, ev{/} zNolqmof ul/ Psf jf d[t hgfj/sf] klg sfuf]{ x'bg} . a'4 Po/sf sd{rf/Lx? ;hLj 3/ kfn'jf hgfj/sf] Joj:yfkgsf nflu ljz]if ?kdf k|lzlIft 5g\ . o:tf sfuf]s { f sd{rf/Lx?sf] ;xof]udf / ;a} k|lqmof k'¥ofPsf] v08df tkfO{n] cfkm\gf] dgkg] { hgfj/nfO{ cfkm";Fu} nfg ;Sg'xg' 5 ] .

;lhn} dfkb08df tkfO{ cfkm";u “ } cfkm\ gf] Kof/f] hgfj/nfO{ Pp6} ljdfgdf cfkm"n] OR5fPsf] uGtJodf nfg ;Sg'xG' 5 .

Churchill Complex, Sundhara, Kathmandu, Nepal Tel: 01-6210579, Fax: 01-4268107 email: pathibhara_2010@hotmail.com

w w w. b u d d h a a i r. c o m

df]afO{n app a'Wb Po/ ca tkfO{;Fu} —p8fg tflnsf÷ef8fb/ ;lhn} x]g{, kQf nufpg ;lsg] l;:tf] ef8f klg pknAw —s]xL a6g tyf s]xL ;]s]08d} l6s6 ll;6 a'lsª ul/ kfos 6«fen Ph]G;L jf a'Wb Po/sf] ;]N; sfp06/af6 klg l6s6 lsGg ;lsg] ldf]afO{n Pkaf6 l;6 a'lsªsf] ;fy} e-sewa ;'ljwf ePsfx?n] ;f]em} l6s6 vl/b ug{;Sg] —/f]onSna dfO{n]h ck8]6 —c6f]–gf]l6lkms];gdfkm{t ljleGg ;"rgf÷hfgsf/Lx?

Pk pknAw 5g\ lgMz'Ns

@airbuddha

Buddha Air

@buddhaairnepal

Call Center: 977-1-5542494, email: buddhaair@buddhaair.com

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Company News

17 August 2016

September 2016

Refueling services started at

First time in Nepal: MRO Service at

Bhadrapur / Chandragadhi

Buddha Air’s Hangar

Airport

Redefining Nepal’s aviation history, our state of the art hangar facility was granted a license to perform Maintenance, Repair and Maintenance (MRO) Services for ATR and Beechcraft. The license was granted by the Civil Aviation

Bhadrapur Airport / Chandragadhi Airport is the major travel hub for eastern Nepal. The airport was established in 1963, but did not have refueling facilities.

A special storage depot was constructed at the airport storing the Aviation Turbine Fuel allowing aircrafts to be directly refueled at Bhadrapur Airport.

The refueling services would not be possible without the cooperation and coordination of Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC), Civil Aviation Authority (CAAN), Bhadrapur Airport’s Director and the efforts of Nepal’s domestic airlines.

All aircrafts require a special fuel commonly known as Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF), which is only supplied by NOC in Nepal. The ATF is of higher quality than normal fuel and require special storage facility.

With Bhadrapur Airport, there are 9 airports in Nepal equipped with refueling facilities.

49

Company News

Authority of Nepal (CAAN) on 6th September 2016.

Airlines have to perform regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the airworthiness of their fleet.

These inspections and maintenance are provided under MRO services and can include small inspections to heavy maintenance.

Working at our hangar are our expert technicians and engineers, who are sent for training to hone and refresh their skills. Our hangar facility was built at a cost of

Bharatpur (8) and Bharatpur to Kathmandu (8).

Two days later, on 9th September 2016, we had

US$25 million. It has modern workshops, repair shops, well-

achieved another milestone. We flew with 3,894

maintained storage area for spare parts and tools, etc.

passengers (including infants) which was the highest

Our hangar recently won the IPMA Project Excellence

number of passengers flown in one day.

Award in 2014. Airlines from neighboring countries can

However, this record was surpassed on 7 October 2016

be assured that we will provide the best practices with

when we flew with 4,479 passengers (including infants).

operational excellence in regards to our MRO services.

This is the highest number of passengers we have flown in one day since we started operations in 1997.

Two milestones on the same week On 7th September 2016, we operated the highest

These achievements were made possible because of you â&#x20AC;&#x201C; our passengers! Thank you for your continuous support.

number of flights from Kathmandu â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Bharatpur â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

Let us break more records and achieve more milestones

Kathmandu. We flew 16 flights from Kathmandu to

together.

Flying with the Man on the Moon; Buzz Aldrin On 8th September 2016, we had the honor and privilege of flying with American Astronaut Buzz Aldrin and his Mission Control Director Christina Korp to Biratnagar.

Our staff had organized a small welcome for them at Tribhuvan

Center, etc are mobilized to the

keeping and updating information

International Airport.

incident area or designated areas.

so that the right information can be

Buzz Aldrin, along with Neil

A Crisis Management Center has

communicated with the concerned

Armstrong was one of the few

been established as a center for

teams and media.

people to successfully land on the moon on 20th July 1969.

Aldrin and his team were in Nepal to hold an interactive discussion of his experience of the moon landing

and what the future holds for space exploration.

Emergency Response Drill As part of an effort to keep the employees vigilant and alert in case of an emergency, we perform an Emergency Response Drill in accordance with our Emergency Response Manual every year (25th September 2016) Under this drill, a mock scenario is created about an incident occurring.

Teams outlined in our ERP manual like Go Team, Crisis Management Team, Family and Friends Reception

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