ट्रेक्किंग थे टॉप ऑफ़ थे वर्ल्ड ऎंड प्रोफ़ वेक्स्लेर क्रेअशन

The government of Nepal and the Maoist rebels who have been engaged in a civil war since february 1996 have signed a historic peace treaty, paving the way for the restoration of the tourist trekking trade in this beautiful Himalayan countrey. More than 13,000 people were killed in the conflict, and though the voilence was never directed towards tourists who converge on the contry to enjoy treks through the stunning landscape, tourism(a major component of the nation's economy) was down more than by 30% in recent years. This year is satisfactory. Under the new agreement, Maiost insurgents will be confined to 28 UN-monitored camps(to which many have already reported) and the turn over their weapons to be placed in safekeeping. The government's army will be confined to barracks, and lock up an equal number of arms. An interim government, which will include the Maiosts, is to be established to oversee elections that are to take place by june but it postponed and going to held in November 2007.


Art of Prof. WEXLER

For the last 200 years, Nepal has been ruled by a Hindu monarchy, and the king was considered an incarnation of the god Bishnu. But calls for change became more intense after the ruling king family was gunned down by the heir apparent, who also killed himself,in June 2001. Then- reigning King Birendra had made democartic reforms, but his brother Gayandera( who was named king after his demise) did not enjoy the same popular support, and declared martial law when the insurgency escalated. The upcoming vote will establish the future of the monarchy, and the Maoist have pledged to honor the results but now Maoist wants republic from the cenate, even if the monarchy they wish to abolish is voted to remain in existence as a ceremonial institution.

WEX Kathmandu (World Explorer Club) Manager Govinda Panta says that it is a time of great hope in his nation; even though his generation has suffered, they are looking forward to a time of peace for theis childreen. He will be happy to organize treks for any WEX members, and intresteted peopls wanting to visit, through his company ADVENTURE PILGRIMS TREKKING. Keep an eye out in future World Explorer issues for WEX trek, on November. In the meantime, see Govinda,a website at: www.trekinepal.com. (Retuers, 21 nov. 2006; World Explorer editorial)