Kathmandu, November 4
The Department of Immigration has fined a trekking agency and initiated action against a guide for attempting to take tourists into a restricted area without the required permits.
According to the department, two Belgian tourists were being taken towards Dolpo Buddha Rural Municipality in Dolpa without trekking permits. The agency and guide also allegedly disregarded instructions from the local administration during the incident.
The District Administration Office, Dolpa, informed the department about the incident through an official letter.
The department has fined Garima Voyage Travel Tours and Treks Pvt Ltd Rs 50,000 for its involvement.
It has also written to the provincial ministry concerned, requesting an investigation into the professional conduct of guide Asmir Bhandari and issues relating to his trekking guide licence, followed by action in accordance with the law.
The department has urged all concerned parties to ensure that trekking and tourism activities are conducted strictly in accordance with existing laws.
