INTRODUCTION TO RAFTING IN NEPAL

One of the top ten best rivers in the world - 10 days

Sun Kosi River is an ideal destination for pursuing a classic white water rafting trip in Nepal. Also popularly known as “Golden River", Sun Kosi is the longest river cascading 270 km through Mahabharat Lekh Mountains to the Himalaya. Journeying through this torrential river on an inflatable rubber boat with life-jackets on, we have nature accompany us all along the river trip bestowing ample opportunity to witness exotic wildlife in its natural habitat. Besides this sheer awe-inspiring whitewater rafting against roaring rapids from put-in point below the Village of Lamosangu to the put-out point at Chatara, we can have cultural encounters as we approach pristine hamlets on terraced hillsides. En route, we may sightsee exotic animals like Languor monkeys, spotted deer, otter anteater etc and many unique bird species. Several Hindu temples come on the way which very well worth a visit. We conclude the trip with a flight from Biratnagar to Kathmandu.

GOKYO, KALA PATTAR & EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK

The ultimate challenge to the ‘just-do-it’ ambitious trekker. This moderate to challenging graded trek takes to you to the foot of Mt. Everest traversing across the high Cho La pass at an elevation of 5420 m. Also included is the opportunity to trek to the summit of both Gokyo Ri [5340m.] and Kala Pattar [5554m.] for magnificent views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu and Cho Oyu. A visit to Everest Base Camp will give you the chance to have a closer look at the spectacular Khumbu Icefall.

Beginners or inexperienced climbers can take this trek, but this trek requires one to be moderately fit. Considering the snow conditions over Cho La Pass, the trek may not be advisable during winter [January & February] and the monsoon season [July & August].

GOKYO, KALA PATTAR & EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK

The ultimate challenge to the ‘just-do-it’ ambitious trekker. This moderate to challenging graded trek takes to you to the foot of Mt. Everest traversing across the high Cho La pass at an elevation of 5420 m. Also included is the opportunity to trek to the summit of both Gokyo Ri [5340m.] and Kala Pattar [5554m.] for magnificent views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu and Cho Oyu. A visit to Everest Base Camp will give you the chance to have a closer look at the spectacular Khumbu Icefall.

Beginners or inexperienced climbers can take this trek, but this trek requires one to be moderately fit. Considering the snow conditions over Cho La Pass, the trek may not be advisable during winter [January & February] and the monsoon season [July & August].

a week below everest

Enjoy images of most beautiful flowers in the world....

Canna

Cannas not only feature pretty blossoms, but also beautiful leaves 
(often likened to that of the banana plant) that come in a variety of stunning colors. Popularized in Victorian times, Cannas are popular 
garden plants.

Cherry Blossom

The unofficial flower of Japan, the spectacular display of blossoms
 that arrive in the spring are celebrated by festivals both in Japan 
and the U.S. The most popular colors are white and pink.  
They are beautiful while on the trees and remain a stunning sight 
even after carpetingthe ground.

Colorado Columbine































Growing high in the Rocky Mountains, the Colorado Columbine is a 
welcome reward for the enterprising climbers of Colorado's 
14,000-foot high mountains. Picking one in the wild carries a fine 
($5-$50 depending on the Ranger who catches you)!

Hydrangea

Magical snowball puffs in fall: gorgeous. The clusters of 
star-shaped blossoms, often found in delicate pastel hues, 
embody innocence.They are popular in wedding bouquets 
and as garden flowers.

Lily of the Valley

A delicate and fragrant sign of spring, the Lily of the Valley 
has inspired a number of legends. One such Christian 
legend explains  that the tears that Mary shed at the cross 
turned to Lilies of the Valley, prompting the flower to sometimes 
be referred to as "Our Lady's Tears." Another legend tells of 
Lilies of the Valley springing from the blood of 
St. George during his battle with the dragon.

Calla Lily

While visually stunning and elegant, this beautiful flower  is actually
a member the poisonous species, Zantedeschia. 
All parts of the plant are highly toxic, with the capability to kill 
livestock and children if ingested. 

Black Eyed Susan

The black eyed susan, a cheerful wildflower, is a perennial that serves
 as a beautiful back drop in any garden. The contrast of the bright 
gold yellow petals and dark middle makes it any easy one to spot
and recognize. This official drink of the Preakness stakes horse
race is named after this flower, consisting of 2 parts Bourbon
whiskey, 1 part citrus vodka, 3 parts sweet & sour mix, 
one part orange juice and garnished with orange and a cocktail cherry.

Bleeding Heart
 

These whimsical, almost fairy-like blossoms are a traditional favorite
in shady gardens. The flowers are either red, pink or white and appear 
in April-June.

Blue Bells

European woods are covered by dense carpets of this flower;  these are 
commonly referred to as "bluebell woods". It is thought that they were
 named by the romantic poets of the 19th century, who felt they 
symbolized solitude and regret.

Lantana

These delicate flowers, with their pink and yellow petals, are butterfly 
magnets. The bush can grow to be quite large and the color of the 
petals change as the plant ages. Beware - Lantana is
considered a weed by many that is quite difficult to get rid of.

Rose    

Roses are one of the most romantic and wonderfully scented of flowers. 
The giving of roses is steeped in tradition and cultural meaning,
 from the yellow rose of friendship to the deep red rose of true love.

Oriental Poppy 

This perennial poppy has a delicate and striking color. 
After flowering in the spring, their foliage dies back entirely, only to  
grow new leaves once again with the autumn rains. The Oriental 
Poppy is the flower of The Wizard of Oz.

Mussaenda erythrophylla (Ashanti Blood, Red Flag Bush, Tropical Dogwood)

These plants are native to the Old World tropics, from West Africa through 
the Indian sub-continent, Southeast Asia and into southern China. 
The beautiful red and yellow petals are a real showstopper. 
A favorite of not only of gardeners, but also butterflies, bees and 
hummingbirds.

Begoni

The first Begonia was introduced into England in 1777. Now one of the most 
popular flowers grown in the United States, Begonias are prized for 
their flowers as well as their leaves. This versatile plant can be grown 
either inside or out.

Ixora

Ixora flowers, also commonly called West Indian Jasmine, 
are often used in Hindu worship, as well as in Indian folk medicine.
This plant has traditionally been associated with enhanced sexuality 
and the re-kindling of passion. Who wouldn't want that as a gift!

Interview with Kari Post: Award winning American photographer

A magnificent view of Fishtail, Annapurna and other Himalayan ranges from Pokhara.

Kari Post is an award winning photographer, compassionate educator, free spirited adventurer, and dedicated environmentalist. Driven by her love for the natural world, Kari has traveled extensively throughout the United States and beyond, exploring, photographing, and teaching about the environment. Her journeys have taken her from the the frigid summits of Mount Washington to the tropical rainforests of Costa Rica and across the United States by bicycle. Kari has spent more than one hundred nights sleeping in tents or camping under the open sky, and logged countless miles on trails and rivers by canoe, kayak, bike, or foot, accumulating tens of thousands of images in the process. She has more than a decade of experience teaching children and young adults, and earned a Master’s degree in Environmental Education, where her final project focused on using participatory photography as a tool to connect people to nature and teach them about the environment.

As a photographer, Kari’s goal is to use photography to engage people with nature, teach them about the environment, and inspire them to value and protect the natural world. Her photographs have been honored worldwide by the International Conservation Photography Awards, and she has worked and collaborated with a number of well respected photographers on various conservation and education projects. Kari is the editor of NatureScapes.Net and currently serves the North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA) as the New England Regional Ambassador and member of the College Scholarship Program Committee.

Hindu Sanyasi at Pashupatinath Temple.

Ms. Kari was on Photography FAM Tour to the different places of Nepal this February which was organized by Explore Himalaya Travel and Adventure. During the tour she explored Kathmandu, Chitwan National Park, Pokhara and even trekked to Poonhill. Explore Himalaya interviewed her on 21^st February, the day before her departure regarding her FAM Tour.

EH: First of all, what do feel about Nepal, do you like Nepal?

Kari: I think Nepal is a wonderful country. It has lots of diversities, very beautiful culture, lot of history, incredible landscapes and the people here are very warm nice and friendly. It feels very safe to be here in Nepal. I must say Nepal is one of my favorite countries after this visit.

EH: As you are here for the Photography FAM Tour, do you really think your tour has become worthwhile?

Kari: Yes, absolutely. I have been able to see lots of things in very short period of time. I am kind of in love with Nepal and want to explore more of Nepal. This FAM Tour did a really nice job giving me a huge opportunity to get introduced to Nepal. It was very much worthwhile capturing the lots of very beautiful and diversified photographs in Nepal.

EH: As a visitor what is the best part you found in Nepal?

Kari: Do I have to pick one?

EH: No, I mean but yes!

Kari: I t is pretty hard, but I will go with Pokhara. Pokhara is a small city without hustles and bustles. I found Pokhara to be more expressible and the sceneries viewable from the city are extra-ordinary. The interesting people with interesting cultures and easy access to everything you need make Pokhara a great city.  I also loved trekking as well. It was great to be with the nature during the trek. The landscapes on the trial were breathtaking. I enjoyed meeting the travelers along the way and the people of different villages. The culture in those villages was so different to the culture in cities.

Fog on a forest Trial in Pokhara

EH: In terms of Photography did the places you visited exactly meet your expectations?

Kari: Yes, every place I went I found totally different things. Culture and history in Kathmandu is so inspirational and artistic, I was impressed. The wildlife at Chitwan National Park is a great treasure. Pokhara is an ideal city naturally blessed and the landscapes and views during the trek are awesome. Overall, the diverse culture of Nepal is a worthwhile observation. In the photography perspective every places I visited were like the seas of pictorial affluence.

EH: Once you go back to your country, have you thought something about promoting the photography tours to Nepal?

Kari: Yes, the first I will do once I go back to my home is starting to research about the places I have explored during this tour. I will also research about the interesting places I missed out. Then I will come up with the potential workshop allowing the Americans to get access with the good photos of Nepal. Once this begins I am sure people will get interested towards Nepal. I am going back with the very positive perspective. I will share the photos and experience in Nepal with my friends and other travelers who are willing to travel to a new place.

EH: Do you think Nepal can be the next potential destination for photography tours to the American as well the other international visitors?

Kari: Yes, there are lots of people willing to photograph in the very new destination. Nepal has lots of natural and cultural charms. The landscapes and views are naturally photogenic .The country is full of diversities naturally and culturally. This is a wonderful land with very friendly and wonderful people. It is very easy to travel photographing. Together we need to work on letting the more visitors know about Nepal who are planning their vacations.

EH: Thank you so much for appreciating Nepal so much. Lastly how do define Nepal in one word?

Kari: Awesome.

EH: Thank you for sharing your experience with us. It was great talking to you.

Kari: It is my pleasure. Thank you so much for arranging such a lovely trip.

Canoes at Fewa Lake Pokhara

Team Explore Himalaya attends ‘Success Mantra’

Team members from Explore Himalaya and Fishtail Air participated at the recently held one day workshop entitled “Success Mantra” conducted by management guru Mr. Ranjit Acharya at Hotel Radisson, Kathmandu on 20th January, 2012. Organized by Merojob.com (a career management site), the personality development workshop enlightened participants on how a positive attitude and an open mind could help one see an opportunity in every obstacle. Interspersed with personal anecdotes, examples from lives of iconic personalities, life changing tips, team games and interactive sessions, the workshop proved to be rather an eye opener and quite fruitful for most of the participants attending it. Participants included, besides the team from Explore Himalaya and Fishtal Air, professionals from banking sector, INGOs, private firms, media etc.
Mr. Suman Pandey, President of Explore Himalaya and CEO of Fishtail Air,who also attended the workshop was presented a special prize by the organizer for being the role model/ inspirational figure for most of the participants present at the workshop.

'Success Mantra' at Hotel Radisson, Kathmandu

Conquering fear by eating a 'ball of fire' -  Krishna Aryal, Coordinator, Speicial Adventure, Explore Himalaya

Sharing his 'mantra' for success to a rapt audience – Mr. Ranjit Acharya

Team building game

A success icon  for most of the participants – Mr. Suman Pandey

Mr. Suman Pandey recieving a special prize from Mr. Ranjit Acharya for being an inspirational figure

Group Photo – Team Explore Himalaya & Fishtail Air with Mr. Ranjit Acharya

Tengboche Monastery Tengboche is one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in the Khumbu region of the Nepal Himalaya.   This sacred site was founded in a stunning location overlooked by Everest and other towering Himalayan peaks.  Buddhist monks at Tengboche draw much of their tradition from Rongbuk Monastery in Tibet on the north side of Everest.

Give me a home where the snow leopards roam

Na

Pin It!

Share this page

Share this page

The lush vegetation of the Tamur Kosi valley in Nepal's Kanchenjunga region. (Richard I'Anson/LPI)

From a vantage point below Kanchenjunga, the world’s third highest mountain, it was difficult to focus. The view -- a visual feast of azure sky reflecting in the Tamur River’s glacial waters, framed by the rock-hewn tsunami of the Kanchenjunga massif – competed with the heady aroma of cardamom-filled sacks, as trains of Limbu traders sung their way down to the lowland markets of the Terai.

• Related slideshow: Nepal's rocky mountain highs

Hidden deep in a remote corner of eastern Nepal, Kanchenjunga rises to 8,586m and encompasses a conservation area and ecological hotspot the size of Mauritius. If you are lucky, you will spot musk deer, a red panda, signs of the snow leopard and fiery rhododendron blooms among the bearded lichen.  

Diversity is also echoed in the clans, costumes and castes of the locals, with Gurungs, Chhetris, Limbus, Rais and Sherpas all living in a vast complex of plunging valleys and soaring peaks, most of which is untouched wilderness straddling the Sino-Tibetan and Sikkim-Indian borders  -- no wonder it is a favourite spot for many seasoned Himalayan trekking leaders. 

The most rewarding goal is a three- to four-week trek from the one-yak town of Taplejung to the north and south base camps of Kanchenjunga. Translated, the peak’s name means “five treasures of the snows” – referring to its crenulated summits. The journey is a gift of isolation; there are no roads and therefore, the locals are not jaded by the hordes of tourists that mill around Annapurna and Everest, roughly 160 kilometres away.

A “namaste” salutation greets trekkers around every corner; each village is a fresh encounter of friendliness and endless, yet fruitful explanations of where you are from and what you are doing there. A local guide acts as an indispensible translator and a social catalyst for laughter between the infrequent visitor and the hardy mountain folk. 

These meetings are the tonic needed after two bumpy flights or two days on a gut wrenching bus from Kathmandu. All visitors must be on a group tour to enter the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, which means that only a few visitors make it as far as the town of Taplejung, the last point of civilization (which itself is gradually recovering from a deadly and destructive earthquake that hit in September 2011). Earthquake-induced cracks appeared in the runway at the nearby airport, so it is now being expanded and may be ready for larger planes and better access this year.

The long, arduous journey from Kathmandu is worth it, if only to observe Kanchenjunga sights like Limbu shamans offering pujas (Buddhist prayers) to expunge their straw and mud huts of evil spirits or to indulge in the drink known as tongba  – a warm, alcoholic millet brew doled out in wooden mugs, sipped through bamboo straws and served up with local song.

It is not only your post-tongba head that can get hazy here – so do the mountain top–vistas, which are generally obscured by mist and fog from late February to the start of the monsoon season in June. But these are the best months for seeing spring flowers – especially rhododendrons. Kanchenjunga has a bewildering number of flowering plants – approximately 2,000 species.

At the end of October, on the other hand, the skies can be crystal clear (minus the perishing cold), and the blood-sucking leeches that infest the moist post-monsoon forest have disappeared. The maple trees, berberis bushes and larch have fiery autumn leaves, and the cardamom harvest is in full bustle.

Compared to other regions, this eastern corner is as off the beaten track as Nepal gets. Each year, fewer than 500 trekkers make it to Kanchenjunga, compared with an annual influx of more than 31,000 to Everest and the more than 74,000 that walk around Annapurna, according to 2010 figures from Nepal’s National Park department.  

And once past Kanchenjunga’s foothills, settlements are sparse. The only company I found here were yak herders, bearded vulture and a host of 8,000m peaks. No wonder it is one of the few areas left in Nepal where snow leopards still roam undisturbed. Spotting their tracks, where they have fed, their spore (fecal pellets) or maybe a very rare glimpse of them on the skyline, is enough to excite even the most half-hearted naturalist.

Be warned, the trekking on Kanchenjunga is tough. There is little basic infrastructure, and Mirgin La – the major pass at 4,800m  – is a rock scramble scarred by last year’s earthquake, located at laboured breathing altitude. Yet it is a rare chance to see some of the longest glaciers in the Himalayas and stand at the base of a formidable mountain that you can brag is more difficult to climb – largely due to a lack of infrastructure – than Everest.

But who needs a flush toilet when you have wild open yak pastures and alpine meadows? The only onlooker might be a yeti – and yes they have been spotted up there.

INTRODUCTION to NEPAL

CULTURAL TOURS IN NEPAL

Cultural tours in Nepal open up a plethora of cultural diversities as each part of Nepal, from East to West, or North to South, has its own cultural setting. Tradition, religion, custom, belief, language, social organization and people are the important aspects of culture in Nepal. Sacred pilgrimage sites, historical monuments and memorials reflect richness of Nepal culture variations.

Kathmandu, Bhaktapur & Patan

(4 days)

Exploration of cultural and historical highlights of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan – the three medieval Kingdom!  - 4 days

This is a short trip that lets you explore ancient temples and religious shrines of the three medieval kingdoms, namely Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan. This trip takes you into a kind of mystical history where the past still remains alive in the present, tradition tirelessly repeats itself into a culture that remains seeped into an ancient history created by the kings of past generations and religious doctrines are strictly adhered till this very day.

In Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, you will be taken for a visit to the holiest of Hindu shrine “Pashupatinath”.  Pashupatinath temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the trinity and the guardian (patron) deity of the Hindus. As you approach cremation areas of the temple, you will witness Hindu’s ritual of cremating a corpse. Tour to Buddhist stupa at Boudhanath are other retreats that will be serviced to you. Another attractive prospect of this trip is cultural tour to the major cultural heritages and temples in Bhaktapur and Patan.

Kathmandu, Nagarkot & Dhulikhel

(4 days)

Exploration of cultural, natural & historical hearts of Kathmandu Valley & nearby hill resorts – 4 days

This trip incorporates the best places of three of the most popular sightseeing places in Nepal, namely, Kathmandu, Nagarkot and Dhulikhel. This trip takes you to some exotic sites in Kathmandu like Pashupatinath temple, Boudhanath stupa and Swoyambhunath. From the Swoyambhunath, you get an amazing 360 degree view of the entire Kathmandu valley. This brief journey to the religious sites gives you an insight into the religious prospects in Nepal. Apart from getting a glimpse of Kathmandu’s highlights, you also get to bask in the splendors of cultural richness in Bhaktapur and Patan.

Thereafter, you will be taken to Nagarkot. At Nagarkot, you get to sight the most fascinating and mesmerizing view of the sunrise. After Nagarkot, Dhulikhel is your next destination. Treading along the unexplored trails of Dhulikhel can achieve a very exhilarating and enriching experience.

Kathmandu & Nagarkot

(4 days)

Cultural & historical exploration of Kathmandu valley & scenic excursion of Nagarkot hill resort – 4 days 

This trip offers a religious and cultural journey to the most amazing places in Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur. Traveling to these places will help you get completely acquainted with different facets of Nepal. Taking on this tour, you will get to become a part of the rich culture and traditions of Nepal. You also get to visit the ancient palaces and famous cultural heritage sites during this tour. Your next destination, Nagarkot, is blessed with sheer beauty of nature and panoramic Himalayan views, giving you a once in a lifetime experience. On returning back to Kathmandu, your trip will further resume towards exploring more of Kathmandu. Visits to Kumari Temple and Durbar Square are the bonus sightseeing trips packaged in this tour.

Floral Kathmandu

(5 days)

The major highlight of this trip is an exquisite Kathmandu tour around the major tourist attractions in Kathmandu. The tour includes visits to Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath and Swoyambhunath in Kathmandu. You also get to visit the major sightseeing places in Bhaktapur and Patan. In Nagarkot, as you sight the breathtaking sunrise view, you get an amazing experience. During the course of your Nepal cultural tour, you get acquainted with the true facets of Nepal. An excursion around Royal Botanical Garden enlightens you on the varied plant species of Nepal. This fun-filled exploratory trip is exclusively designed to make your Nepal holiday very insightful and memorable.

INTRODUCTION to NEPAL

Nepal is a land of unparalleled scenic beauty located within one of the most diverse geographical areas on earth. Nestled high in the Himalayas between China and India, it has retained its essentially agrarian and medieval character. Its wondrous history and geography are still the defining aspects of everyday life.

Since Nepal first opened its frontiers to foreign visitors in the fifties, it has been the epicenter of Himalayan adventure activities. Climbing and trekking holidays in Nepal Himalaya has become highly sought after adventure sports throughout the world soon after the advent of tourism culture.Nepal has an unsurpassed range of environments, ranging from the lowland of Terai to the snowy summit of the highest mountain range on Earth. Traveling in Nepal not only offers an opportunity to submerge in Himalayan bliss but also a chance to step back in time. Standing before the entire world as a vivid kaleidoscope of picturesque landscapes, exotic wildlife, arid high-altitude meadows, magnificent mountains, incredible travel destinations, unique culture, festivals, ancient heritage, pristine backwaters, and exotic cuisine, Nepal is undoubtedly a travelers delight.Trekking in Nepal is often referred to as walking through the paradise on earth.

BHUTAN

INTRODUCTION TO BHUTAN

Bhutan, 'the land of thunder Dragon' and 'the last Shangri La' on earth, is situated in the lap of Eastern Himalayas between India and the People's Republic of China. Covering an area of 18000 sq miles, the tiny Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan is one of the most isolated nations in the world. Spectacular mountain terrain, varied flora and fauna and unique ancient Buddhist monasteries have made Bhutan an exemplar tourist destination, it is bestowed with rich bio-diversity harboring around 300 medicinal herbs and 165 endangered species. Each part of Bhutan has its own, historical, geographical, cultural, traditional and religious significance.

Nepal tourism: 4 must visit wildlife parks in Nepal.

Nepal is rapidly becoming a chief tourist destination. It is a fantastic blend of temples, nature, culture and wildlife. Most international trip packages are now proposing this destination to nature & wildlife aficionados. Despite of being a small landlocked country, it by no means fails to compel first-time visitors return one more time. After you have tripped through the temples and visited the lakes, you must set aside some time to visit some celebrated national parks.

Nepal tourism brings before you a blissful experience in these prominent wildlife corners. Here is a look at some of the finest national parks in Nepal:

Royal Chitwan National Park: Ancient wildlife park- Chitwan National Park is the country’s prevalent wildlife delight. Extensively stretched to over 900 sq km, Chitwan National Park is exceptionally admired by the visitors. It is the natural set where you can spot a diverse array of birds and beasts, ranging from the harmless one-horned rhinos to the detrimental crocodiles. From the barking deer to the ‘biting’ tiger, you can gawk and watch at the unspoiled qualities of nature. Mongooses and otters also love to play mess at this place and there is no scarcity of the Gangetic dolphin. Chitwan is one of the major hotspots for ever-growing fame of Nepal tourism from India.

Ghariyal crocodile at Chitwan National Park

 Annapurna Conservation Area: Annapurna is big jungle expanding for over 7,600 sq km. It is an abode to an extensive variety of flora, and is hence a botanist’s heaven. While you can spot almost any kind of plant and flower in here, you are also likely to bang into chirping birds, grazing blue sheep and athletic snow leopards. Butterflies and bees are ubiquitous. And this is one place where birds with poles apart feathers assemble at a place.

Kanchenjunga Conservation Area: One notable craze about Nepal tourism is that it prioritizes grand prominence on protecting its natural gems. So, cases of hunting and other illegal practices are almost to no avail of. Kanchenjunga Conservation Area is another unblemished testimonial to the country’s beautiful flora & fauna. Flowers love to take birth at this park and several mountain animals like the Himalayan goats and leopards are enduring residents of this area.

Sagarmatha National Park: Many international tour packages comprise this park in their itineraries. Apart from playing crowd to countless birds & animals, Sagarmatha National Park is also the home for the mighty Mount Everest. It is also an extremely craggy region nestled in some intimidating mountainous locales.

Botanist’s paradise- Annapurna Conservation Area Park

RIHANNA TO TAKE A BREAK FROM MUSIC: 5 THINGS SHE CAN DO OTHER THAN HANG WITH CHRIS BROWN

Rihanna has a lot on her plate: She has a brand new clothing line, a sold-out tour, and a new hit album. Not to mention, a boyfriend who likes to hit.

So it's only fair she takes a break. According to Ryan Seacrest — who said on his morning show, "She's been in this go mode for a while... But sources say after this tour wraps, she plans to take up to a year off to unwind."

So, what is a girl to do who has worked nonstop for almost 10 years? Besides hang on the beach with her loser boyfriend, Chris Brown? Who, it turns out — in another classy move — also likes to belittle women. Watch the video below of Brown at a club and see if you can keep your jaw from hitting your desk. We couldn't.

We came up with five ideas guaranteed to keep the Barbadian beauty out of trouble. (It's a total coincidence they also happen to keep her out of Brown's arms.)

1. Create a Match.com account. It's no secret that we're not a fan of Brown, but that doesn't mean we think Rihanna has to be alone. The pop singer has already proven to be savvy when it comes to social media, so why not try online dating? It can't get much worse than her current beau, can it?

2. Learn another language. Or at least some new English words. And preferably a couple that contain more than four letters. If you are a follower of her Twitter or Instagram account, you've seen firsthand how the 25-year-old likes her profanity. She might be pretty, but that's not.

RELATED: Chris Brown and Rihanna Are Hooking Up: Why This Cannot Happen

3. Do a duet with Vin Diesel. Please tell us you saw the video of theFast & Furious star — who has sang in a couple of his movies — belting out "Stay." If not, we've added it below for your viewing pleasure. The only thing that could have made it better was if he was singing it live with Rihanna. Come on, you'll have the free time soon enough, girl. Make it happen!

4. Work on a new clothing line. Her first-ever fashion collection debuted at London Fashion Week. But unfortunately for the singer, the reviews were not all positive. Or sadly even the majority of them. The line of clothes she designed for River Island was described by some as a "horror." We know she's not a fan of wearing a lot of clothes, but it shouldn't be that hard to design them. Heck, even Jessica Simpsoncan do it. And successfully, we might add.

5. Take up kickboxing. Unlike say knitting or scrapbooking, you know this is one hobby she'll actually use.

What do you think about Rihanna reportedly planning to take a break? What do you think she should do with the time off? Tell us in the comments section below.

25 '90S STARS LOOKING FOR A TV COMEBACK — GALLERY

As if you didn't realize they'd be back. News of pilot castings has been hitting the interwebs every day in recent months, and Hollywood.com noticed a particularly interesting trend — like, totally major nostalgia casting. From Anthony Steward Head of Buffy the Vampire Slayerto Alicia Silverstone from Clueless to New Kids on the Block's Joey McIntyre, this year's crop of castings has an undeniable '90s feel.

RELATED: 16 Most Moving TV Deaths

Because we're nice, we decided to roll with you homies — creating a gallery that's chock full o' your favorite actors from decades past. We've got the scoop on where to find them, what to expect from their latest projects, and of course, utterly clickable images from the TV shows and movies that made you love them in the first place.

So click away, and in conclusion, may I please remind you it does not say RSVP on the Statue of Liberty:

GALLERY: 25 '90s Stars Looking for a TV Comeback

'THE MINDY PROJECT' AT PALEYFEST: CHRIS MESSINA IMPRESSIONS AND MORE

The Mindy Project cast ostensibly gathered onstage for a PaleyFest panel at the Saban Theater in Beverly Hills on Friday night to talk about the first season of their delightful Fox comedy. But in addition to talk of casting, writing, and running the show, a good chunk of time was simply dedicated to making fun of Chris Messina, complimenting Chris Messina, hitting on Chris Messina and impersonating Chris Messina. In short, it was hilarious.

Messina was a man of few words, mostly ceding stage time to his chattier castmates (so they could tell stories about him and perfect their New York-y impressions of him). Since that doesn't really translate to print, you can take our word that everyone on the cast has a Messina impression — all with varying degrees of accuracy.

Aside from poking fun at arguably the most lovable cast member,Mindy Kaling, Ike Barinholtz, Ed Weeks and the rest of the main cast did manage to share some juicy tidbits of information. Here's what else we learned from the panel:

On leaving The Office:
It was "so hard" to exit the show Kaling had worked hard on, but her own show was too good an opportunity to pass up, Kaling says. But leaving such a tight-knit group of people has its perks: "I knew all of them so well, which is why they come on the show," she says. Expect to see more Dunder Mifflin-ites pop up throughout the show's run, along with the ones we've seen already. B.J. Novak will be back for at least one more episode in Season 1, Kaling confirmed.

On the magic of Mark Duplass:
Duplass will be back for at least two more episodes. In addition to the next new episode (which was screened before the panel), Duplass just shot an episode in which he gets intimate with Messina. It's an indie-movie-lover's dream: Messina in a Speedo and Duplass in a singlet wrestling on the beach together. "They're submitting it to Sundance," Barinholtz joked. Speaking of Mindy's exes, Tommy Dewey will return for more episodes too.

On Weeks' British charm:
The role of Jeremy Reed was originally envisioned as a "Bradley Cooper type," Weeks says. But after practicing the audition pages in his American accent, his roommate encouraged him to go with his native accent instead. Clearly it worked out, though Kaling jokes she was so mesmerized by Weeks' looks that she invited him to her house for a late night casting couch session and that's how he got the role.

On Nurse Beverly:
Now that Beth Grant has re-joined the cast full time, we'll learn more about the curmudgeonly character. She's had many different boyfriends of varying ethnic backgrounds, Grant says. At one point, she was engaged to the recently convicted Drew Peterson, Kaling and Barinholtz joke.

On Danny and Mindy's chemistry:
The writers' room is very divided between wanting Mindy and Danny to get together and wanting to watch their friendship blossom some more, Barinholtz says. Obviously no one would hint at which way it goes, but they did note that the Season 2 pickup didn't change how they're writing the rest of the season.

As for her non-Mindy-related projects, Kaling confirmed that she'd just read the script for the finale of The Office, which she's shooting in a few days, and that she plans to spend her summer hiatus writing another book.

SXSW: 'SCENIC ROUTE' IS THE ULTIMATE ROAD TRIP GONE AWRY

What Open Water did for scuba diving with your spouse, Scenic Route should do for road trips in the desert with your best friend. Directors/siblings Kevin Goetz and Michael Goetz have made for one of the most intense, effective movie-going experiences of SXSW... and it's only day two. 

RELATED: 'Evil Dead' Takes SXSW On a Grisly, Gory Ride

The premise is simple: two best friends Mitchell and Carter (Josh Duhamel and Dan Fogler, respectively) hit the road to catch up for old times sake. The two have drifted, as adults tend to do, with Mitchell in a stable, if not passion-free marriage and career, and Carter as the aimless slacker. On paper it seems like Duhamel and Fogler are simply playing into their usual archetypes, he the handsome leading man and he the wacky sidekick, but Scenic Road turns it on its head and lets the actors beat the ever-living s**t out of them. Literally. 

In fact, that's exactly how Scenic Route begins. We see two men, one of whom is sporting a Travis Bickle-esque mohawk (Duhamel, in what marks his most daring, impressive performance to date), in the middle of the desert, bloodied and bruised, fighting as dirty as the tattered clothes they are wearing. We haven't yet learned that these two are lifelong friends who have let unkind words and the unforgiving elements get to them. One of them takes a crutch to the other one's temple and everything goes dark. Only, that's not the beginning of the story, or the end for that matter. 

The movie starts, innocently enough, as almost a buddy road trip comedy, but it descends into something else entirely. It is part-jet black comedy, part-horror film, part-moral drama, part-human study, and completely and utterly f**ked up. When we meet Mitchell and Carter moments after that shocking opening sequence, they look completely fine. Even more confusing, Mitchell doesn't have a mohawk. So how do they get there exactly? 

After Carter makes his old truck they're driving through the desert in break down intentionally to spend more quality time with Mitchell, the two not only have to battle the elements (with no food and no water in the desert, which is as unrelenting in the day as it is the night), but each other. With nowhere to go and increasingly mounting tension, the two friends begin to unravel on each other, saying things they can't quite take back.

RELATED: SXSW 2013: Our 5 Must-See Movies

High emotions, mixed with the delirium of being stranded in the vast desert — who knew wide open spaces could feel so claustrophobic? It sends the men into a tailspin, not only leading to that ill-advised mohawk (the free-spirited Carter somehow convinces the straight-laced Mitchell to get the haircut he always wanted... in the middle of the night, with a blade from a pocket knife) and eventually that vicious, violent fight. 

What happens next, well, I don't want to spoil it for you. But whatever you think happens to these guys after their blood, sweat, and tear-soaked fight doesn't. The last 40 minutes of the movie, fittingly enough, takes a much different road than you thought it would. Somewhere at the intersection of 127 Hours and Buried, you might think you have finally figured out Scenic Route's path, but then it takes its own winding, twisted detour. 

While there are some frustratingly distracting moments (including Carter's inane decision to turn down help when they first break down), the dialogue-heavy feature, which spends most of its running time on the side of a dirt road in the desert, never loses your attention. You hang on these men's every action, every word uttered, determined to find out if they make it out of this journey unscathed. Well, relatively speaking. 

RELATED: The 2013 SXSW Film Lineup 

A veritable case study in grown men, and their relationships with each other (a few visions of Fight Club danced through my head), Scenic Route will make you no less scared of what nature will do to you as compared to what the ones you love are capable of doing to you. Scenic Route is a movie that crawls under your skin and stays there for a while, thanks largely in part to its haunting ending.