Discover annapurna booklet by Ram Shrestha

DISCOVER

ANNAPURNA

Ker & Downey Nepal Comfort Lodge Trekking

Ker & Downey offers the finest, most complete adventure program in Nepal Our programs enable you to experience all aspects of this wonderful exciting country. Located in the Annapurna Mountains, we offer trails using purpose built lodges constructed and managed by an American company with 27 years experience in both Africa and Nepal. But from 1st march 2013, the ownership of Ker & Downey has shifted to Yeti Group of Companies. However, the overall management will be same under the supervision of Mr. Duncan Baker. All lodges are a day walk apart and allow guests to experience in comfort some of the most spectacular mountain vistas in the world. Trekking in Nepal has always been associated with sleeping in small tents on hard beds or mats, washing in cold water, sharing communal toilets and living fairly basically. Ker and Downey is unique in Nepal as it offers the only program which allows guests to experience the magnificent scenery in style and comfort whilst staying in ensuite rooms with comfortable beds with sheets, blankets, down pillows and hot water bottles.

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13 Nights 14 Days Discover Annapurna Terai Trip Highlights: l

Enjoy your stay in our comfortable luxury lodge and experience local lodges as well

Experience the walk in the Annapurna and village life in Bandipur

Enjoy jungle safari in Chitwan and stay in our luxury resort

Sightseeing options in Kathmandu

All inclusive packages with all meals included throughout the trek

Starting and ending in Kathmandu, this 13 nights / 14 day itinerary is considered to be one of the most comprehensive programs offered in Nepal. It allows guests to experience all aspects of this wonderful and exciting country. It has been designed so that the minimum amount of time is spent travelling between each destination, enabling one to enjoy the best that each activity can provide. The Royal Nepal Spectacular features the Gokarna Forest Resort (in Kathmandu), the Temple Tree Resort (in Pokhara), Ker & Downey Lodges (while on trek), Ker & Downey River Camp (on the Seti Gandaki River) and Kasara resort (at the Chitwan National Park).

Detailed itinerary DAY 01 | ARRIVAL IN KATHMANDU Depending on your arrival time, our representative will be at the airport to receive you and transfer you to your booked hotel. Accommodation: Gokarna Resort Maximum altitude: 1300m (4265ft) DAY 02 | FLY TO POKHARA AND DRIVE TO BIRENTHATI (1025m) After breakfast and depending on your booked flight timing, you will be transferred to the domestic terminal for the scenic flight to Pokhara. The flight takes about 20 minutes providing spectacular views of Langtang, Manasalu and Annapurna ranges. Once in Pokhara, our crew along with private vehicle will meet you at the airport. From here you will drive to Birenthanti which is about 1 and half hour drive to start the trek. Following the lower foothills of Annapurna region. Arriving at our comfortable lodge in that lies in the valley of Modi Khola; delicious lunch will be served after which you can rest in your room or hike up to the Birenthanti village to interact with the locals.

DAY 03 | TREK TO GHANDRUK (2012M) Breakfast will be ready at the dining room. After breakfast, you will leave the lodge to start the trek through the scattered small farms. Following the Modi Khola and with constant view of Mt. Machhapuchhre ahead, you will soon climb the valley towards the mountains. Passing through the rice fields and forest, you will arrive at the Himalaya Lodge in Ghandruk early afternoon to a hot lunch that is served on arrival as you enjoy the spectacular views of Annapurna Massif. Accommodation: Ker and Downey lodge (Himalaya lodge) Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Trekking Time: 5hrs Trek Hiking Level: Easy Maximum altitude: 2012m (6601ft) DAY 04 | TREK TO LANDRUK (1565M) Leaving the Ghandruk village, the trek descends steeply to the banks of Modi

Accommodation: Ker and Downey lodge (sanctuary lodge) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Trekking Time: 3hrs Trek Hiking Level: Easy Maximum altitude: 1025m (3362ft)

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River. Crossing the suspension bridge, we trek further into the Landruk village enjoying the views of Annapurna range passing through the cliffs that where honey hunters climb up on the ropes to hunt the wild bee honey. Lunch will be ready as we arrive at our lodge. After the lunch, you are either rest in your room to rest enjoying the spectacular views of the mountains or go on a sightseeing tour in the village with your guide.

DAY 06 | DRIVE TO POKHARA (830M) As we end our trek today heading back to Pokhara, after breakfast we trek downhill along the scenic ridge to the farmland and scattered houses through the Yangdi Khola Valley. Our vehicle will be waiting for us after which we drive back to Pokhara, an interesting drive for about 45 minutes. Arriving in Pokhara, you check in hotel where you can enjoy the chilled beer and also book for a spa or massage in the hotel.

Accommodation: Ker and Downey lodge (La Bee Lodge)

Accommodation: Shangri La Hotel

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Meals: Breakfast

Trekking Time: 4hrs Trek

Trekking Time: 2hrs Trek

Hiking Level: Easy

Maximum altitude: 1565m (5134ft)

Maximum altitude: 830m (2723ft)

DAY 08 | VILLAGE EXCURSION IN BANDIPUR (1030M) You can enjoy the views on a clear day from your room today as the lodge is situated high on the ridge about 1000M above Bandipur. After breakfast, you will visit some local schools for interaction and later walk to the higher viewpoint peak. You can return back to the lodge and after lunch your guide will take you to on a walk around the local villages and return back to the lodge for your second overnight in Bandipur. Accommodation: Ker and Downey lodge (Three Mountain Lodge) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner After breakfast, as your porters pack the bags to leave for the trek, you along with your guide will start your trek passing through the village and farmlands with views of Annapurnas at your back. An easy trek to Majgaon today, you arrive at the Ker and Downy Lodge. You can enjoy the views of the mountains from your room itself relaxing after the trek or spend your time at the garden. You can also take a short walk to the village with our guide.

DAY 07 | DRIVE TO BANDIPUR (1030M) Bandipur is a famous Newari village settled on the high ridge on the way to Kathmandu highway. A drive of about 3 hrs takes you through the scenic panorama of hills and river Trishuli flowing on the left. You will arrive around the lunch time. After the lunch you can take a walk around this traditional city Newari village with the local guide. After this, you will hike for about 40 minutes steady climb to arrive at Ker and Downey lodge that rewards your patience with the panoramic view of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna and Makalu.

Accommodation: Ker and Downey lodge (Gurung Lodge)

Accommodation: Ker and Downey lodge (Three Mountain Lodge)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trekking Time: 4hrs Trek

Hiking Level: Easy

Maximum altitude: 1400m (4593ft)

Maximum altitude: 1030m (3379ft)

DAY 05 | TREK TO MAJGAON (1400M)

Trekking Time: 4hrs Trek Hiking Level: Easy Maximum altitude: 1030m (3379ft) DAY 09 | TREK TO SETI RIVER CAMP (830M) The Seti River Camp has no road access and the off road is under construction. This provides the river and surrounding valley to remain pristine. While descending towards our destination, we can see many birds, the Colobinaes and get a glimpse of the daily life of the villagers. Upon arrival at camp, everyone settles into the luxury safari tent. After the shower and lunch, we do jungle safari. If not, we can relax by the river bank of Seti River enjoying the peace and tranquility of this beautiful place.

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wildlife or a jungle walk is organized to experience the abundant bird life and the flora & fauna inside the park. If you are lucky, you may see the exclusive Royal Bengal tiger, one horn Rhinoceros, and deer both on nature walk as well as on elephant safari. In the evening, Tharu cultural show programs will be presented to you. Tharus are the inhabitants of Terai. Accommodation: Kasara Resort Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Rafting / Drive: 3hrs / 1.5hrs Maximum altitude: 415m (13612ft) DAY 11 | FULL DAY JUNGLE ACTIVITIES (415M) Today, we will do the rest of the programs like canoeing in the river (crocodile hunt), visit elephant breeding centre, jungle safari, bird watching and more. Accommodation: Kasara Resort Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Maximum altitude: 415m (13612ft)

DAY 13 | IN KATHMANDU WITH HALF DAY SIGHTSEEING TOUR (1300M) After enjoying a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, we’ll be met by our guide for our day trip to a few of the Kathmandu valley’s most spectacular and important sights and some vibrant, colourful markets. With a meld of three ancient capitals and their associated palaces, temples and markets of Kathmandu has a lot to offer culturally and historically. However, we’re mindful not to overload you on your first day so will ensure the day has a good balance between sightseeing, exploring and relaxation time. The exact itinerary may change depending on the local conditions but we shall most likely visit: Pashupatinath, one of the most important temples in South Asia to the Hindu God, Lord Shiva; One of the three Durbar (Palace) Squares , a complex of palaces and temples which was formally the social, religious and administrative focal point of the ancient city.

Accommodation: Seti River Camp Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Trekking Time: 2hrs Trek Hiking Level: Easy Maximum altitude: 830m (2723ft) DAY 10 | RAFTING FOR 3 HRS AND DRIVE TO CHITWAN (415M) After having breakfast, we will have a briefing from our rafting team and then we gear up for it. Floating down the river will provide opportunity for us a chance to see village life along the banks as well as the abundant variety of birds. The Seti River has five rapids of Class II. It takes us almost 3 hours (lunch will be picnic on a sandy beach on the way) to reach Gaighat where we find our vehicle which will transfer us back to Kathmandu. Kasara Jungle Resort “Simple Luxury Jungle Resort”, exterior to Chitwan National Park. Upon our arrival, your guide will brief about the afternoon activities In the late afternoon, you will be taken for a jungle safari on elephant back so that you can penetrate deep into the jungle for viewing and photographing

DAY 12 | FLY BACK TO KATHMANDU OR DRIVE BACK TO KATHMANDU (1300M) After the breakfast in the Resort, you will be transferred to the Bharatpur Airport and take a 30 minutes flight back to Kathmandu. On arrival in Kathmandu, we’ll transfer to the hotel. Then you’ve free time to relax or head into the city. We find most people want to simply unwind and enjoy the hotel facilities – whatever you choose, we’ll help! Accommodation: Gokarna resort Meals: Breakfast Maximum altitude: 1300m (4265ft)

Boudhnnanath Stupa, a wonderful Buddhist site centred on a huge Stupa topped with the all-seeing eyes. If possible we’ll come here in the early evening to soak up the atmosphere of hundreds of Tibetan and Sherpa peoples walking their devotional khora Overnight: Gokarna Forest Resort Meals: Breakfast Maximum altitude: 1300m (4265ft) DAY 14 | INTERNATIONAL DEPARTURE Final departure depending on your flight schedules.

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14 Nights 15 Days Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is a famous tea house trekking route in the southern face of Annapurna base camp. Trekking along the Modi Khola gorge leads you to the panorama of vast mountains. The diverse culture in this region makes this 12 days trek all the more interesting as you pass by the gorgeous Himalayas including Annapurna 1, Gangapurna and Fishtail looking straight at you as you head towards the highest altitude at the Annapurna Base Camp at 4179M (13710ft). The flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara takes 20 minutes through the scenic views of the Himalayas so we would suggest picking the seats on the right side for the better views of the Himalayas. The trek follows the traditional route from Birenthanti to where you will drive after arriving at the Pokhara airport.

Trip Highlights: l

12 days trek that approaches the high Himalayan peaks.

The spectacular atmosphere of the glacial circus of the Annapurnas sanctuary.

No night above 4,000 meters (13123ft) !

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Detailed itinerary DAY 01 | ARRIVAL IN KATHMANDU. Depending on your arrival time, our representative will be at the airport to receive you and transfer you to your booked hotel. Overnight in Hotel Maximum altitude: 1300m (4265ft) DAY 02 | FLY TO POKHARA AND DRIVE TO BIRENTHATI (1025m) After breakfast and depending on your booked flight timing, you will be transferred to the domestic terminal for the scenic flight to Pokhara. The flight takes about 20 minutes providing spectacular views of Langtang, Manasalu and Annapurna ranges. Once in Pokhara, our crew along with private vehicle will meet you at the airport. From here you will drive to Birenthanti which is about 1 and half hour drive to start the trek. Following the lower foothills of Annapurna region. Arriving at our comfortable lodge in that lies in the valley of Modi Khola; delicious lunch will be served after which you can rest in your room or hike up to the Birenthanti village to interact with the locals. Accommodation: Ker and Downey lodge (Sanctuary Lodge) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Trekking Time: 3hrs Trek Hiking Level: Easy Maximum altitude: 1025m (3362ft)

on arrival as you enjoy the spectacular views of Annapurna Massif. Accommodation: Ker and Downey lodge (Himalaya lodge) Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Trekking Time: 5hrs Trek Hiking Level: Easy Maximum altitude: 2012m (6601ft) DAY 04 | TREK TO CHOMRONG (2170M) We continue our trek towards Chhomrong through the magnificent oak forest. The trail further descends to the new suspension bridge through the Modi River. A gradual upward for about 1.5 hours brings you to Jhinu Dada. A Hot Spring awaits you 15 minutes down the riverside if you want to take a dip and relax. Chances are you also get to see some wild animals around here. Accommodation: Good Local Lodge Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Trekking Time: 5hrs Trek Hiking Level: Easy Maximum altitude: 2170 m (7119ft) DAY 05 | TREK TO DOVAN (2350M) As we continue our trek after breakfast, we pass through Chhomrong. The trail descends from here through the stone staircase and crossing the Chhomrong River through a suspension bridge. Continuing the trail and climbing up the trail we arrive in a tiny settlement of Tilicho in a forest of bamboo,

DAY 06 | TREK TO DEURALI (3230M) After breakfast we ascend through the forest of rhododendrons and oaks trees and further up we arrive at Dovan (2630M) with few lodges on site. There are muddy trails that traverse high above the river and after a short trek, we arrive at Himalayan Hotel. Further, the trail ascends to Hinku Cave. Ascending another twenty minutes and we arrive at Deurali (3230M) Accommodation: Good Local Lodge Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Trekking Time: 5/6hrs Trek Hiking Level: Moderate Maximum altitude: 3230m (10597ft) DAY 07 | TREK TO ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP (4130M) The trail today goes past the Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3820M). Trekking further to Annapurna Base Camp where we arrive in about 2 hours, we enjoy the panorama of the Himalayas with Annapurna range looking straight at us. Accommodation: Good Local Lodge

rhododendrons, and oak. Climbing further on a rocky trail we arrive at Sinuwa (2350M). As we climb further through the rhododendron forest and little further we arrive in Bamboo. Accommodation: Good Local Lodge Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Trekking Time: 5/6hrs Trek Hiking Level: Moderate Maximum altitude: 2350m (7709ft)

Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Trekking Time: 5/6hrs Trek Hiking Level: Moderate Maximum altitude: 4130m (13549ft) DAY 08 | TREK TO DOVAN (2500M) After breakfast, the trek starts with the trail descending on a stone staircase and crossing the Chhomrong Khola then climbs through deep rhododendron and bamboo forests

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Accommodation: Shangri La Hotel Meals: Breakfast Trekking Time: 2hrs Trek Hiking Level: Easy Maximum altitude: 827m (2713ft) DAY 13 | FLY TO KATHMANDU After the breakfast in the Resort, you will be transferred to the Airport and take a 20 minutes flight back to Kathmandu. On arrival in Kathmandu, we’ll transfer to the hotel. Then you’ve free time to relax or head into the city. We find most people want to simply unwind and enjoy the hotel facilities – whatever you choose, we’ll help! Accommodation: Gokarna resort Meals: Breakfast Maximum altitude: 1400m (4593ft) reaching Dovan, a small village with scattered lodges. Accommodation: Good Local Lodge Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Trekking Time: 5/6hrs Trek Hiking Level: Moderate Maximum altitude: 2500m (8202ft) DAY 09 | TREK TO CHOMORONG (2170M) We retrace back to Chhomorong through the same trails that we used to ascend towards the Annapurna Base Camp. Accommodation: Good Local Lodge Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Trekking Time: 5hrs Trek Hiking Level: Easy Maximum altitude: 2170 m (7119ft) DAY 10 | TREK TO LANDRUK (1565M) The trek descends steeply to the banks of Modi River. Crossing the suspension bridge, we trek further into the Landruk village enjoying the views of Annapurna range passing through the cliffs that where honey hunters climb up on the ropes to hunt the wild bee honey. Lunch will be ready as we arrive at our lodge. After the lunch, you are either rest in your room to rest enjoying the spectacular views of the mountains or go on a sightseeing tour in the village with your guide. Accommodation: Ker and Downey lodge (La Bee Lodge)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Trekking Time: 4hrs Trek Hiking Level: Easy Maximum altitude: 1565m (5134ft) DAY 11 | TREK TO MAJGAON (1400M) After breakfast, as your porters pack the bags to leave for the trek, you along with your guide will start your trek passing through the village and farmlands with views of Annapurnas at your back. An easy trek to Majgaon today, you arrive at the Ker and Downy Lodge. You can enjoy the views of the mountains from your room itself relaxing after the trek or spend your time at the garden. You can also take a short walk to the village with our guide. Accommodation: Ker and Downey lodge (Gurung Lodge) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Trekking Time: 4hrs Trek Hiking Level: Easy Maximum altitude: 1400m (4593ft) DAY 12 | DRIVE TO POKHARA AND TRANSFER TO HOTEL (827M) As we end our trek today heading back to Pokhara, after breakfast we trek downhill along the scenic ridge to the farmland and scattered houses through the Yangdi Khola Valley. Our vehicle will be waiting for us after which we drive back to Pokhara, an interesting drive for about 45 minutes. Arriving in Pokhara, you check in hotel where you can enjoy the chilled beer and also book for a spa or massage in the hotel.

DAY 14 | SIGHTSEEING IN KATHMANDU (1400M) After enjoying a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, we’ll be met by our guide for our day trip to a few of the Kathmandu valley’s most spectacular and important sights and some vibrant, colourful markets. With a meld of three ancient capitals and their associated palaces, temples and markets of Kathmandu has a lot to offer culturally and historically. However, we’re mindful not to overload you on your first day so will ensure the day has a good balance between sightseeing, exploring and relaxation time. The exact itinerary may change depending on the local conditions but we shall most likely visit: Pashupatinath, one of the most important temples in South Asia to the Hindu God, Lord Shiva; One of the three Durbar (Palace) Squares, a complex of palaces and temples which was formally the social, religious and administrative focal point of the ancient city. Boudhnnanath Stupa, a wonderful Buddhist site centred on a huge Stupa topped with the all-seeing eyes. If possible we’ll come here in the early evening to soak up the atmosphere of hundreds of Tibetan and Sherpa peoples walking their devotional khora Overnight: Gokarna Forest Resort Meals: Breakfast Maximum altitude: 1400m (4593ft) DAY 15 | INTERNATIONAL DEPARTURE

Final departure depending on your flight schedules.

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LEGEND Kathmandu Valley Fly Route Trekking Route Drive Route Location River Pond Basecamp

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K&D Lodges

Sanctuary Lodge Birethanti

La Bee Lodge Landruk

Gurung Lodge Majgaon

Mala Lodge Tomijung

Himalaya Lodge Ghandruk

3 Mountain Lodge Gamal Chhap, Bandipur

Basanta Lodge Dhampus

Seti River Camp Dharampani Dhap

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Guides

Buddha Magar

Mekh Gurung

Namgel Sherpa

Padam Paudel

Responsible Attitude As Sherpa people we have a great desire to protect our environment as ‘Guardians of the Himalayas’ while encouraging tourists to explore our wonderful world. We’ll help ensure that your visit will have a positive impact on local communities, and which will very much add to your experience. In all of our lodges water is heated by solar power, and electricity comes directly from local hydro projects. In Phakding we have our own hydro plant and the electricity generated is shared with the local village. We are working on a scheme to create brickettes using recycled materials, such as paper and leaves, to burn on our stoves rather than yak dung and fallen wood collected from the lower valleys. Being deep in the mountains we have everything carried in and by doing so we employ a great number of local men and women. Ninety per cent of our lodge staff are locally employed. Similarly, our guides and the team with you on the trail are all Nepalese and the vast majority again are from this

region. We are currently designing a scholarship scheme for schools local to the places you will visit. Its aim is that a percentage of our income will go towards supporting a number of children in the area to go through schooling. In this way we can also help the future of the region as well as the present. Your food where possible is local. Much of the fresh produce you eat is from the local village, grown by our neighbors. This way you are enjoying seasonal organic vegetables of the highest

quality while supporting the local community. Perhaps our largest contribution goes to the Pasang Lhamu Mountaineering Foundation established in 1993. Pasang Lhamu Sherpa was the first woman to summit Mount Everest although tragically she died on the descent. She holds a very dear place within our hearts at Yeti Mountain Home. The foundation helps finance many projects that help to improve life in the Khumbu region. Some of the foundation’s active projects are listed below:

Education for children whose parents have been killed in the mountains

Vocational training such as craft workshops for women from deprived and remote areas

Family health centres

The building and support of Lukla Hospital

Building porter shelters in many different trekking regions

Tree plantation

Peak cleaning and pollution control

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Package Details for Discover Annapurna Services Include: Airport/Hotel/Airport Transfers 3 night Hotel Gokarna Resort on Full Board in Twin Room 1 night Hotel Shangri-La on Full Board in Twin Room Sightseeing with entrance fee Bhaktapur & Boudha

Flight: Ktm-Pkr & Bharatpur-Ktm with airport tax Transfer: Pokhara to Banidipur & Seti River Camp to Chitwan Trekking Duffle Bag, walking Stick, water bottle

Service does not include:

All staffs daily wages/Insurance

Personal equipment & Insurance

6 nights K & D Lodges as per program on FB

Alcoholic beverages & soft drinks

2 hrs Seti River Rafting with necessary equipments National Park & TIMS Permit Fee

Discover Annapurna The Cost Minimum 2 pax US$ 2465.00 Per person Single Room Supplement US$ 720.00

Welcome & Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu

English Speaking Trekking Guide and Porters

2 nights 3 days Kasara Resort on FB with Jungle Activities

Cost

Expenses of personal nature. Nepal Visa Fee US$ 40 Per person

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek The Cost Minimum 2 pax US$ 2375.00 Per person Single Room Supplement US$ 730.00

Tips for Staffs Emergency rescue evacuation if needed

For More Inquiry & Booking

Package Details for Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Services Include: Airport/Hotel/Airport Transfers 3 night Hotel Gokarna Resort on Full Board in Twin Room 1 night Hotel Shangri-La Village on Full Board in Twin Room

All ground Transport as per program Trekking Duffle Bag, walking Stick, water bottle Welcome & Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu

English Speaking Trekking Guide and Porters

Service does not include:

All staffs daily wages/Insurance

Personal equipment & Insurance

4 nights K & D Lodges as per program on FB

Alcoholic beverages & soft drinks

6 nights normal Local lodge on FB

Expenses of personal nature. Nepal Visa Fee US$ 40 Per person

National Park & TIMS Permit Fee

Tips for Staffs

Flight: Ktm-Pkr-Ktm with airport tax

Emergency rescue evacuation if needed

Ms. Jayanti Mukhia jayanti@keranddowneynepal.com +977 1 4435686 / 4435645 Bhattachan Complex 2nd Floor, Thirbam Street, Bhatbhateni Kathmandu -03, Nepal

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jayanti@keranddowneynepal.com www.keranddowneynepal.com