Operator resumes tours to troubled Nepal

Thursday, 22 Feb, 2006 0

Adventure holiday specialist Explore is reintroducing tours to Nepal after a change in foreign office advice.

The FCO has downgraded its advice against all non-essential travel but still warns that violence and disturbances remain a risk.

Explore said it will continue to monitor the situation but stressed its knowledge of the destination, coupled with discussions with ground handlers, prompted the decision to resume its tours.

The operator has cancelled eight tours since the FCO warned against all travel on January 20.

“We are confident that we can safely operate our tours and therefore intend to operate all Nepal tours as planned,” a spokesman said. “Our passengers are very aware of the situation in Nepal but the majority are still keen to travel. A minority opted to transfer on tours departing later in the year rather than cancel completely.”

Those passengers unwilling to travel can transfer free of charge or receive a refund if travelling on tours between now and the end of April.

The volatile political climate follows on-going tensions between the Maoists and government forces which has seen several bombings and armed attacks. Tourists have not been targeted although some have been injured.

Further complicating the situation is the threat of roadblocks and an indefinite Bhandh, or general strike, from March 14.

Explore said alterations to itineraries may be necessary. Tours also include flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara because of concerns over road safety.

The FCO urged travellers to take “extreme caution” when travelling during Bhandhs.

Report by Steve Jones

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