Nepal Nepal Magical, Mystical.

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1 Nepal

2 Nepal Nepal Magical, Mystical. Nepal is well known for its magnificent landscapes, however it also offers an exciting ensemble of historic, cultural and religious places of interest including a number of UNESCO World Heritage sites. Our photography tour is not a trekking tour. Rather we will go out of our way to explore medieval kingdoms, pagodas, temples and hillside villages with a particular emphasis on encountering the diverse local cultures of the ethnic people of Nepal using the majestic Himalayas as a backdrop. We time our tours to coincide with two important fesitvals, Holi in March and Daishin in October. Both offer a colourful and lively experience to the tour. The Kathmandu Valley is made up of three old medieval kingdoms, Kathmandu, Bhakatpur and Patan. We will visit all three. After our exploration of Kathmandu and its environs we leave the big city in 4 wheel drive vehicles to explore hill villages surrounded by terraced paddy fields. A highlight of the tour is the two nights spent in a village in a high remote valley which gives us the perfect opportunity to experience the rural lifestyle and ethnic cultures of the Tamangs and Gurungs away from tourist trekking paths. We then travel along the dramatic Prithvi highway en route to Pokhara making numerous stops at some of the most important religious sites in Nepal. Pokhara is a beautiful town on the borders of Phewa Lake and makes a great base for sunrise and sunset visits to a number of small villages. The lake reflects the majestic peaks of the Annapurna range, possibly the world s most stunning mountains On this tour we will be doing everything we can to help you capture magical vistas and wonderful landscapes, but, as with all our tours, this tour will focus on encountering local people and getting to observe their culture in a very up close and personal way. The big surprise for most people is just how rich and how rich and diverse the culture of Nepal is. Dhampus Girl Nikon D800 1/

3 Engage Building on his years of experience in Cambodia Nathan feels that Nepal is the perfect place in which to offer tours that benefit from his teaching style. Indeed, many who have booked the Nepal tour are returnees : i.e. past clients on his tours in Cambodia and Burma. Nathan has always believed that his photography tours should open up a country by presenting opportunities to engage with local people. One of his principle aims, going far beyond teaching good camera technique, is to show participants that instead of being a barrier between the photographer and subject, the camera can be used as the key to open doors. He aims to show how, when used sympathetically, the camera can help to establish a vital connection between the traveller and the locals they meet. Nathan always goes out of his way to encourage opportunities for meeting and interacting with ordinary people going about their everyday lives. This approach offers one of the best chances for a photographer to become more than just a tourist looking on, and instead, someone engaging with local people and in local life. It is this which sets Nathan s tours apart: they stand out as offering a really rich and exciting experience for participants, including the occasional accompanying nonphotographer. Chetri woman, Samari Nikon D800 1/90 2

4 Highlights Nepal is full of countless outstanding sights but we go beyond most other tours, by building into our itinerary opportunities for you to meet people and engage with them as they live their daily lives, in the markets, towns and countryside, in homes and temples. { Swayambbunath (Monkey Temple) { Tour dates specifically timed to take advantage 2 of Nepal s most colourful festivals - Holi and Dashain { Visits to UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley { Overnight in the ancient Newari village of Bhaktapur { Visit off the beaten track Tamang villages in Samari { Ancient ridge town of Bandipur { Magnificent views of Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Dhaulagiri and Mt. Manaslu from Pokhara { Boating on the serene Phewa lake in Pokhara { Bodhanath - one of the largest ancient Stupas in the world Swayambbunath (Monkey Temple) Nikon D800 1/60 3

5 Itinerary Day1: Kathmandu It is quite a thrill just flying into Kathmandu. On a clear day the views of snow-capped mountain peaks sprawling down below give you a real sense that you are arriving at a special country. A representative and driver from our office will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. After checking in you will meet Nathan and then be taken on a short walking tour to Kathmandu s famous Durbar Square and its local environs that some refer to as a living museum. Durbar Square, Kathmandu Nikon D800 1/

6 Day 2 Big festival day Both tour dates in 2014/15 have been specifically chosen to provide fabulous photography opportunities as we take part in two of Nepal biggest and most colorful festivals. The March tour will include Holi. Commonly known as the festival of colour, you couldn t ask for a better photo opportunity as locals playfully throw paint and water at each other in celebration of the cooling monsoon days to come. (Be warned foreigners can get special attention - so be sure to bring a protective cover for your camera and some old clothes you won t worry about if they get colour stained ). The October tour is timed to take in the Dashain Festival which lasts 15 days and is celebrated all over Nepal Holi festival Nikon D700 1/

7 Day 3 Monkey Temple/Medieval Bhaktapur Sunrise at Swayambbunath. This is a popular Buddhist temple on top of hill overlooking Kathmandu. It is affectionately known as the Monkey Temple and bristles with the activity of worshippers from the very first light of the day. Return to hotel to freshen-up. Later that morning we leave the main city and take a drive of about half an hour to Bhaktapur. Of the three medieval kingdoms of the Kathmandu valley Bhaktapur (or Bhadgaon) is the best preserved. As we walk through the traffic free cobbled streets we get to observe local potters busy spinning their wheels and drying their terracotta wares set against wonderful art and architecture of the Malla era to be found in the durbar square. Lion Gate, Golden gate, Art gallery, Statue of King Bhuptindra Malla, Nyatapola Temple and the Malla Palace of 55 windows are the living prides of Bhaktapur. We stay overnight in the heart of this city so we have plenty of time to explore all these places and the even more intriguing back streets in depth. Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Nikon D800 1/60 6

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9 Day 4 Patan Wake up to the timeless way of life in Bhaktapur, spend the early hours of the day soaking up the atmosphere of morning temple rituals and local markets. Praying woman Nikon D800 1/4 After lunch we take a short drive to the third ancient capital in the Kathmandu valley called Patan. Patan has got a particularly fine collection of temples and palaces around it s Durbar square. It is far from being just a tourist attraction it is teeming with local life, prayer and worship. 8

10 Day 5 Nuwakot In the early morning we leave the city behind as we set off in 4 x 4 vehicles to take a scenic drive through rice terraces en route to Nuwakot village. We stay in a famous farm which is superbly positioned on a hill overlooking the Trisuli river with views of surrounding hills and the far off Langtang Himal. This is rural bliss. Nuwakot itself is a small but thriving village and has a nice, clean cobbled street that leads up to Saat Taale Durbar, the beautiful old castle. A stones throw away from the Durbar is the area s main temple, Nuwakot Bhairabi Temple and Jalpadevi Mandir. Roadside scene en route to Nuwakot Nikon D800 1/

11 Day 6 Samari After a relaxing morning on the farm we use the 4 x 4s to make the steep climb up to Samari. The late afternoon drive takes us through gorgeous valleys where the locals tend to their fertile paddy fields and typical village life. We have plenty of time to make random stops as and when we see the perfect moments taking advantage of the late afternoon sun. Roadside scene en route to Samari Nikon D800 1/

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13 Day 7 Samari Staying in a converted local house gives us a unique opportunity to explore upper valley village life far away from the nearest tarmac roads, but unlike most of the trekking routes you are likely to be the only tourists in this magnificient valley. Samari Bhanjyang is a traditional Nepalese village, situated in one of the last mountain passes on the caravan route to Kathmandu, with no other guest houses to be seen. Though the village has a mixed population comprising of Chettris, Newars,Tamangs and Magars, the latter two communities are in majority. It is just a short walk to several other minority villages and it makes a perfect day to visit one in the morning, return to base for lunch and then visit another in the late afternoon. Rice planting Nikon D800 1/

14 Day 8 Drive to Bandipur Today we take a scenic drive along the Prithvi Highway to Bandipur, again scheduling time to make random stops as and when we please at paddy fields, magnificient river views and market towns. Bandipur is considered to be a national gem, situated on a ridge at an altitude of 1030 meters, it is a well preserved ancient Newari town that used to be the main trading center from the late 18th century to recent times. It s community living in the narrow cobbled streets seem unchanged by centuries and will charm any photographer s eye. Roadside scen enroute to Bandipur Nikon 1/

15 Day 9 Sightseeing tour of Pokhara This morning we make our way along an outlying ridge to witness sunrise over a panoramic view of our first snowcapped Himalayan mountains. This can result in stunning photos. We spend the morning enjoying leisurely short hikes out of town to nearby villages. In the afternoon we drive to Pokhara, on the way we will stop at picturesque hamlets and lush green fields as we please. As we approach Pokhara, our eyes behold the snowy pinnacles of the Annapurna Range; Dhaulagiri, Manaslu and Lamjung Himal. Day 10 Drive to Dhampus The day starts with an early morning visit to see the magnificent views afforded at the World Peace Pagoda. We then take a boating trip on Phewa Lake and try to capture one of the most breathtaking sights of Pokhara; the reflection of the Machhapucchre s (Fishtail) spire on the lakes waters from low level. At lunchtime there is an opportunity to take an optional paraglide flight from Sarangkot Hill down to Pokhara Lake. Not to be missed if you like that sort of thing! In the afternoon we drive to Dhampus, a traditional Gurung village in time for locals returning from their work in the fields. We engage with their gentle way of life, often being invited into homes and gardens to take photos. The village also affords some stunning and spectacular views of the snowy Annapurna Range, Dhaulagiri and Manaslu at sunset. Dhampus basket weaver Nikon D800 1/

16 Newari woman in Khatmandu valley Nikon D800 Day 11: Kathmandu From Pokhara we fly to Kathmandu. Stunning views of the Himalayan Mountains and picturesque hill top villages enthrall us. In the afternoon we visit one of Kathmandu s most photographed monuments, Bodnath Stupa. This is not only a fabulous structure but is the centre of Nepal s biggest Tibetan community and a constant hive of activity and prayer. Day 12: Depart Kathmandu Our support team will drive you to the airport for your flight home or to continue to Tibet (October). Please Note: Itinerary days may be subject to changes or variations. 15

17 About Nathan Nathan Horton has been a professional photographer for 23 years since graduating with a BA Hons in Film, Photography and Video Arts. He has sold work as an artist, worked as an advertising photographer for some of the world s biggest brands including Nokia and Lux, and also as an editorial photographer for some of London s premier magazine titles including Elle, The Times Travel section and Food and Travel magazine. Nathan has travelled extensively in Asia for over 25 years and has made Cambodia his home since After many years of experience in this field he has managed to fine-tune some very successful itineraries that deliver in-depth photography tours throughout South East Asia. His tours have been highly praised on Trip Advisor, National Geographic Traveller and the Weekend Guardian for exploring Asian culture in deeper, richer and more ethical ways than most. Nathan s Mission After living, working and teaching photography in Asia for over 7 years, I have a unique in-depth knowledge of the countries I visit. I have extensively researched my itineraries and pride myself that my tours don t just drive straight past fabulous photo opportunities but remain flexible enough to make random stops. We often find ourselves pulling up when we see local people harvesting rice, catching fish, climbing coconut trees etc. What makes my tours different is that I consider it my job to help you engage with the country and its people in a much more natural, friendly way than you might ever have imagined. 16

18 Tuition This tour is for all photographers wanting to expand their knowledge of travel photography. Nathan will cover both the technical and ethical issues of travel photography, very specifically orientated towards photographing people. This approach will help both novice and experienced photographers to capture very special images. Most of the teaching is done on location. Nathan will work alongside you to help you understand particular technical challenges, give you artistic inspiration and most importantly, lead by example in approaching local people. Time is also put aside to help develop your post production skills so that you can subtly enhance your pictures thus producing a stunning portfolio of the tour. Dhampus Nikon D800 1/

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20 The Group In Nepal we will never run a tour with more than 8 participants. A group of this size is ideal for Nathan and his regular local guides to give everyone the attention they may need. This intimate group size forms a stimulating dynamic where participants can share their experiences with like-minded people, and more often than not, they will leave with new friends. Whether you are a single traveller, or you come with a partner, you will find being in a small group who share a common interest a great way to get something extra out of your trip. No more worrying about keeping people waiting while you try to frame your best shot! Engaging with the people Nikon D700 1/

21 Reviews Past participants say it all: I have done two trips with Nathan, one in February 2012 around Cambodia, and another in April 2013 to Burma. Both exceeded expectations in every respect: well organised, didn t have to worry about transport or accommodations. We somehow arrived at the important places for photography at the right time of day, and often without any, or too many other tourists. Nathan s guidance shows the fact that he has been living in Phnom Penh for several years and is able to get the best out of the South East Asian environment. I learnt so much, being pushed beyond my comfort zone, but in a very pleasant way. Top marks! Don t hesitate, have a cool experience and try something new. On top of the scheduled locations there was always something extra happening... Alison Ryde, Trip Advisor review 2013 Nathan is awesome. Don t hesitate. My girlfriend and I just did the 4 day Angkor Wat tour. What can I say? All expectations blown away. If you are considering doing something with Nathan, don t hesitate. Book it. Four of my most precious travel days ever. Jon Bauer, Trip Advisor review 2012 Given special mention National Geographic Traveler 2010 Listed as a top ten photography holiday around the world UK Guardian Newspaper Travel Section Sept 2011 Described as comprehensive Lonely Planet 2012 Highly recommended Luxe Guide Cambodia and Laos 2012 Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence 2012/2013 Trip Advisor Over 95% 5 Star Reviews - In the top 10% of world wide businesses I booked a tour with Nathan based solely on the reviews here on Trip Advisor - and then wondered how it could possibly live up to the hype. All I can say after completing the tour is that it does - it more than does. Trip Advisor review 2012 A great experience of the Real Cambodia Based on Nathan s beautiful portfolio I had high hopes for the trip and the images and experiences on the trip actually exceeded my expectations. Flemming Bo Jensen 2011 Professional photographer 20

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23 Magar man Nikon D800 F8 1/125 How to Book Please fill in the Tour Request Form found on the Contact page on the website. (Just click on the website link at the bottom right hand side of the page). We will attempt to respond within one working day. Once we receive your enquiry we will check availability and confirm this to you, and reserve you a place on the tour. We will send you an invoice for the deposit (40% of the tour cost). Once this has been received your place will be fully confirmed. At the moment we can only receive overseas payment via Swift Code. Full details of how to pay will appear on the invoice. 22

24 What to Bring Your best camera, be it a DSLR or an advanced compact with some manual controls. Your lens(es) should cover at least a medium zoom range. If you have them, a wide-angle lens (useful in temples and pagodas) and a longer telephoto lens (good on boat trips) would be useful but not essential. A fast standard lens with aperture of f1.8 or f1.4 is another good option. { A polarising filter { A tripod { Plenty of memory cards and a spare battery { A laptop is not essential but is very useful for backing up the day s shoot, and also for reviewing what you have taken. We also recommend a portable external hard drive - just in case! { A rain cover for your camera and one for yourself are recommended, and are essential during the rainy season Dhampus Nikon D800 F8 1/

25 Dates and Prices Dates: 2014 (12 Days) 29th Sept - 10th October to include Dashin Festival 10th October to 14th October - optional extension in Tibet* 2015(12 Days) 5th - 15th March to include Holi Festival Prices: $3580 per person $550 * Extension tours will be 5days/4 nights. The Small Print Inclusions: { Post Prodcuition workshop using Lightroom { Photographic guidance { English speaking local guides { Domestic flight (Pokhara to Kathmandu) { All accommodation in high standard hotels { All meals in high standard restaurants { All transport (A/C bus, 4WD Jeep) { Free drinking water on the bus { All entrance fees { Escorted airport transfers Exclusions: { International travel to and from Nepal (meeting point Kathmandu) { Any kind of insurance { Drinks { Other personal expenses, e.g. laundry, phone calls, gifts etc. { Tips for local guides and staff Payment and Cancellations: 40% deposit must be made at the time of confirmation. Full payment of the remaining 60% is due 60 days prior to the tour start date. Cancellation of services less than 60 days prior to the start date will result in the deposit being retained. However this will be transferable to another tour date (minus any costs incurred by Nathan Horton Photography Tours in arranging the changeover). Insurance: Please understand that Nathan Horton is not an above the line tour operator. Nathan Horton runs a guided photography tour with the services of a Yangon licensed tour company registered with the Ministry of Local Planning and Economic Development. Your safety is always a top priority but all participation is at your own risk and you should not sign up without accepting that Nathan Horton can accept no liability for damage to equipment or personal injury. SECURING YOUR OWN INSURANCE IS ALWAYS CONSIDERED A PREREQUISITE FOR ACCEPTANCE ON THIS TOUR, AND PROOF THAT YOU HAVE ARRANGED ADEQUATE INSURANCE WILL HAVE TO BE PROVIDED TO THE OPERATOR IN ADVANCE. Accommodation: Accommodation is in the following high standard hotels: { Kathmandu - Yak & Yeti { Pokhara - Fishtail Lodge { Bandipur - Boutique town house Accommodation in Samari will be in a converted house with access to western bathrooms and electric chargers. 24