SAARC CULTURAL CENTRE

SAARC Cultural Centre is a regional centre established based on the decision made by the heads of state or government of SAARC Countries to promote cultural cooperation in order to bring the people of South Asia closer and to project the distinct identity of South Asia.

The Centre is intended to function as a major meeting point for the artistic communities of the member states. The Centre will provide the necessary facilities and conditions for individuals and groups in various fields of interest to meet and interact in a conducive environment. It is intended to cater to all forms of art such as performing arts (e.g. dance, music, drama, theatre, puppetry and folk culture), visual art (e.g. painting, sculpture, film making, photography) and literature as per the provisions made in the SAARC Agenda for Culture.

SAARC Cultural Centre is part of the SAARC, an association established for corporation between South Asian Countries. Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka are the current members of SAARC.

SAARC GAMES

South Asian Games (also known as SAF Games or SAG & formerly known as South Asian Federation Games) are a bi-annual multi-sport event held among the athletes from South Asia. The governing body of these games is South Asian Sports Council (SASC), formed in 1983. At present, SAG are joined by eight members namely Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka.

The first South Asian Games were hosted by Kathmandu, Nepal in 1983 and have since been held every two years except for some occasions. In 2004, it was decided in the 32nd meeting of South Asian Sports Council to rename the games from South Asian Federation Games to South Asian Games as the officials believed the word Federation was diminishing the emphasis on event and acting as a barrier in attracting crowd. These Games are often hyped as the South Asian version of Olympic Games.

SAARC TOURISM

The age old civilization, prosperous cultural diversity, exclusive culinary delights, vast geographical attractions, fascinating heritage sites and above all the warm hospitality of people make the South Asian countries an amazing region for tourism.
Saarc Tourism, an esteemed portal provides comprehensive travel information on these South Asian Countries that together form the "Saarc Countries". The portal serves as your holiday planner to any of these Saarc nations, highlighting the prominent natural, archaeological, spiritual attractions as well as the top tourist activities. Saarc Tourism also lists out numerous exciting travel packages for international tourists interested in exploring the treasures of South Asia.
Travellers can browse through these packages and pick up the one that suits them best. They can also go ahead and inquire/book a tour with us
Established on December 8, 1985, South Asian Association For Regional Cooperation is popularly known as SAARC. SAARC is a unique concept, a combined vision of eight different countries of South-East Asia for the welfare of the people and for peace, stability and progress of the region by fostering mutual understanding, meaningful cooperation and good neighbourly relations. Originally, the Saarc countries list included Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The eighth Saarc country to be included in the list was Afghanistan.
With Saarc Tourism, find information not just on tourism in Saarc countries and tourist destinations in South Asia, rather also find information on Saarc and Saarc countries themselves. Know more about Saarc, Charter of Saarc, Saarc Summit, Declaration of Saarc Summits and Agriculture in Saarc Countries. Basic information about Saarc countries like government, language, weather, economy, geography and history also provided.

Sri Lanka:

The First in the list of Saarc Countries

Amongst the top Saarc countries from tourism point of view, Sri Lanka is also one of the most visited tourists destinations in the world. Surrounded by water all around, Sri Lanka is situated in the midst of Arabian Sea. The most remarkable features of Sri Lanka is the beauty of its exotic beaches. The island country's rich cultural heritage and majestic landscape makes it an amazing tourists destinations. The world famous Maria band of Sri Lanka will surely get your booty pooping to its beats. Find information on tourism in sri lanka here Few places in the world can offer the traveller such a remarkable combination of stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, captivating cultural heritage and unique experiences within such a compact location. Within a mere area of65, 610 kilometres lie 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, 1,330 kilometres of coastline - much of it pristine beach - 15 national parks showcasing an abundance of wildlife, nearly 500,000 acres of lush tea estates, 250 acres of botanical gardens, 350 waterfalls, 25,000 water bodies, to a culture that extends back to over 2,500 years.
This is an island of magical proportions, once known as Serendib, Taprobane, the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, and Ceylon. Discover refreshingly Sri Lanka!





Nepal - A Gem Amongst Saarc Nations
Nepal tourism is the prime highlight of tourism in South Asia. Nepal is the destination for adventure tourism amongst all Saarc nations. Home to 8 out of the 10 highest peaks in the world, Nepal is an ideal place for adventurous sports such as trekking, climbing etc. The world highest peak Mt. Everest stands tall in the crown of Nepal and attracts a lot of tourists from across the world. Shopping in Nepal will drive you crazy. Pokhara, Chitwan National Park, Nepal Ganj, Nagarkot and Annapurna are some of the most visited destinations in Nepal. Infact they are amongst the most popular tourist destinations in south asia also. Nepal is the most beautiful and stunning Himalayan country in the world. Though small in size, it is known in the world as a nation of color and contrasts-a hidden Shangri-La of nature, culture and adventure. In the countryside the way of life is still traditional, nature is at its best, high mountains and lush valleys are ideal places for trekking and mountaineering, flora and fauna invites a nature lover for a rendezvous with them. Nepal is rich with traditions of art and culture and Kathmandu, the capital city, is a treasure house of ancient art and culture

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Bhutan:

The Himalayn Kingdom of South Asian Countries
Saarc countries information also provides details on Bhutan. Bhutan can be termed as a rich cultural and adventure destination amongst south Asian countries. Endowed with rich cultural heritage of Buddhism, Bhutan has different shades of this religion in many different aspects. Besides this, numerous places of spiritual attraction are admired by tourists across the world. The neatly carved wooden houses and superior quality crafts of Bhutan makes it a preferred location for tourists around the globe. With sub-tropical foliage to Alpine forests its elevation varies 200 meters in the south up to 7000 meters of Himalayan Region. Kula Kangri, with 7,553 meters is the highest pick and its about 70 % territory is colored natural green by forests. Bhutan is listed on top 10 biodiversity hot spots of the World. There is an estimation of 770 species of birds along with wild animals like Tiger, elephant, Snow Leopard etc. Another attraction of Bhutan is Temples, Dzongs and Monasteries. Bhutanese identity caters with monasteries and Sherpa cultures. The country is divided on three regions namely Central region that comprises Trongsa, Bhumthang, Chumey, Chokehar, Tang and Ura; Eastern region that includes Mongar, Luentse, Trashi Yangtse and Sengor valley; and Western region includes Haa valley, Paro valley, Thimphu, Punakha valley. Cultivated inner moorlands and Himalayan foothills support the majority of the population. Bhutan has remained a hidden Kingdom since a long time. These days it opened door for tourism setting fixed daily tariff through Department of Tourism, Bhutan. Rates are same for cultural tours and trekking and unfeasible to negotiate on that. Capturing Photograph and Movie are not allowed some places.

 






India - The Biggest Amongst Saarc Nations

South Asia tourism invariable takes one to India- the land of diversity. Home to the seventh wonder of the world-Taj Mahal, India is bountiful of historic structures and royal palaces. Exotic beaches, ancient fortresses, pilgrimage sites, places of artistic excellence and an adventurous wildlife will surely provide you a mesmerizing experience. Besides this, the tempting Indian food and wide aspects for shopping makes India a prime stop of tourists. Bounded by the majestic Himalayan ranges in the north and edged by an endless stretch of golden beaches, India is a vivid kaleidoscope of landscapes, magnificent historical sites and royal cities, misty mountain retreats, colorful people, rich cultures and festivities. Modern India is home alike to the tribal with his anachronistic lifestyle and to the sophisticated urban jet-setter. It is a land where temple elephants exist amicably with the microchip. Its ancient monuments are the backdrop for the world’s largest democracy. If you’re planning a holiday to India, looking for hotels and accommodation and events information or simply interested in India as a country you are sure to find many insights on the multifaceted travel options to India here.The timeless mystery and beauty of India can be experienced only by visiting this ancient Land. There’s just one thing you’ll need to travel through 5000 years of culture and tradition- A comfortable pair of shoes.

Maldives- Popular Destination for Saarc Tourism

Tourism forms the backbone of Maldives. The island country enjoys tropical climate with plenty of sunshine throughout the year. The palm fringed islands, pretty beaches, clear waters and beautiful flora and fauna of Maldives make it one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in not just south Asian countries but all over world. With the latest threat of its submergence in water, Maldives is a must while going for a tourism in Saarc countries. Maldives Islands are characterized by a unique coral nature and thus they posses unique tourism resources though in a one-sided way, namely in the submarine and littoral environment of the islands, lagoons and reefs, associated with the year-round tropical climate. These small, picturesque islands with dense tropical vegetation including shrubs, flowering plants and tall coconut palms surrounded by blindingly white beaches, crystalline lagoons that exhibit all shades of blue is the combination that has acclaimed Maldives as paradise on Earth.

PRINCIPLES OF SAARC COUNTRIES

The principles are as follows:

>Respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, political equality and independence of all members states

> Non-interference in the internal matters is one of its objectives

>Cooperation for mutual benefit

> All decisions to be taken unanimously and need a quorum of all eight members

>All bilateral issues to be kept aside and only multilateral(involving many countries) issues to be discussed without being prejudiced by bilateral issues

Afghanistan was added to the regional grouping on April 2007,With the addition of Afghanistan, the total number of member states were raised to eight. In April 2006, the United States of America and South Korea made formal requests to be granted observer status. The European Union has also indicated interest in being given observer status, and made a formal request for the same to the SAARC Council of Ministers meeting in July 2006. On 2 August 2006 the foreign ministers of the SAARC countries agreed in principle to grant observer status to the US, South Korea and the European Union. On 4 March 2008, Iran requested observer status. Followed shortly by the entrance of Mauritius. Myanmar has expressed interest in upgrading it's status from an observer to a full member of SAARC, while Russia is interested in becoming an observer.

SAARC NATIONS INTRODUCTION

NEPAL:
Nepal, home to Mount Everest, is dominated by the world's most imposing mountains. Although the country is relatively small (147,181 square kilometers), 80 percent of its territory is occupied by the dramatic peaks of the Himilayas Nepal was closed to foreign visitors until1951, a situation which contributed greatly to its mystique in the west. This small, hospitable country has since become an exceptionally popular destination for travelers, whether they are in search of climbing challenges or spiritual enlightenment.
Nepal can be divided into three geographical regions, each stretching from east to west across the country. The southernmost strip of land, the Terai, is bordered to the north by Himalayan foothills and to the south by the Ganges River. The area was originally covered with tropical vegetation, but has been almost completely converted to agricultural production. The Terai is now the breadbasket of Nepal and is covered with farms.
The central section of Nepal is formed by the Mahabharat Chain, a range of mountains that reach modest altitudes of 2,000-3,000 meters. Farming has become an important activity in the area; terraced farms produce rice, corn and wheat. The Kathmandu Valley, a stretch of green in the middle of the Mahabbarat, is home to Nepal's capital and other historic cities.


INDIA:
India, officially the Republic of India (Bharat Ganrajya), is a country in South Asia. It is the seventh-largeat country by area, the second most populas country with oveer 1.2 billion people and the most populous the Bay of Bengal on the south-east, it shares land borders with Pakistan to the west; China,Nepal and Bhutan to the north-east; and Burma and Bangladsh to the east. In the Indian Ocean, India is in the vicinity of Sri Lanka and the Maldives; in addition, India's Andaman and Nicobar Islands share a maritime border with Thailand and Indonesia.
Home to the ancient and a region of historic In dus Valley Civilization trade routes and vast empires, the Indian subcontinent was identified with its commercial and cultural wealth for much of its long history. Four world religions—Hinduism,Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism—originated here, whereas Christianity, and Islam arrived in the 1st millennium CE and also helped shape the region's diverse culture. Gradually annexed by and brought under the administration of the British East Indian Company from the early 18th century and administered directly by the United Kingdom from the mid-19th century, India became an independent nation in 1947 after a struggle for Independence that was marked by non-violent resistance led by Mahatma Gandhi.


PAKISTAN:
Pakistan is a country situated in southern part of Asia, in its north lies China the Central Asian states and the Russian federation, to the west is Afghanistan and Iran while to the east is India. Pakistan has four provinces namely Punjab, Balochistan, NWFP and Sind. Islamabad is the capital of Pakistan, and five districts of the northern areas are administered directly from the Capital. Officially these districts are called Federally Administered Northern Areas (FANA). Pakistan came into being as the result of the partition of British India in 1947.
Pakistan is one of the diversified countries of the world in terms of its culture, landscape, and climate. To the north of Pakistan is the highest mountain system of world, having its harsh climate. To the west are the fertile plains of Indus valley. While to the western and southern part exist the steaming deserts. Within its borders situate the Arabian Sea, best root of Asia; this sea moderates the climate of its southern parts.
Population of Pakistan is around 140 million. Pakistan is an agricultural country. Its major exports include the agricultural products like cotton, sugar, rice and textile. The literacy rate of the country is nearly 40%. Urdu is the official language of Pakistan where as English is used for education, trade and other purposes. Pakistan's cultural heritage is very rich it has inherited the rich cultures of the thousand of years old Indus and Ghandara civilizations.


SRI LANKA:
Sri Lanka is an island country located off the southern coast of India. Sri Lanka is surrounded by the Indian Ocean, Gulf of Mannar, the Palk Strait, and lies in the vicinity of India and Maldives. The geography of Sri Lanka includes coastal plains in the north and hills and mountains in the interior. The government system is a republic. The chief of state and head of government is the President. Sri Lanka has transitioned to a market-orientated economy but the central government is still involved in economic planning. Sri Lanka is a member of Bay of Bengal Initiative for MultiSectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).


BHUTAN:
Bhutan is the land of extreme weather. Being close to one of the highest mountain ranges in the world, it has very cold climate and very good Himalayan views in Winter (October - March) and a pleasant weather in Summer in all hilly areas.
The country can be divided into three climatic zones. The north alpine region that includes mountains higher than 3000 meters above sea level, the temperate zone known as the inner Himalayas of altitudes ranging between 2000 to 3000 meters where most of the Bhutanese live, and the southern tropical belt 100-2000) that receives around 5000 millimeter of summer monsoon rain. The southern belt is hot and humid in summer but pleasant in winter.
However, climate can vary considerably between valleys and within valleys depending on the altitude. Thimphu for example is cold and dry in winter while Punakha is warm. Bhutan has four seasons. Spring (March-May), Summer (June-August), Autumn (September-November), Winter (December-February).

BANGLADESH:

Bangladesh is one of the most flood prone countries in the world. It is situated in south Asian sub-continent. The country has an area of approximately 147,000 sq km with a population of about 130 million. It is one of the most densely populated country. A location map of Bangladesh is given in fig. 1. Because of its unique geographical location and topography, flood of different magnitudes and types occurs every year. During last 50 years at least 6 extreme flood events occurred affecting about 35-70% of land area. Economic loss due to the floods was huge, e.g. in two consecutive floods of 1987 and 1988 flood damage was estimated at US$ 2.2 billion and in 1998 flood damage was estimated at US$ 2.8 billion.Bangladesh, being an agro-based country, its main objective is to increase food production. Flood control and irrigation are of prime importance towards achieving the objective of the food grain production to feed the increasing population.

AFGHANISTAN:
Afghanistan is a landlocked country located in Southern Asia that borders China, Iran, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. The geography of Afghanistan is arid and mountainous; the Hindu Kush Mountains run northeast to southwest and divide the northern provinces from the rest of the country. The government system is an Islamic republic. The chief of state and head of government is the President. Afghanistan has a controlled economic system in which the central government directs the economy regarding the production and distribution of goods. Afghanistan is a member of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).Afghanistan has long been a country in turmoil. For decades, Islamic movements, communists and tribal warriors have struggled for control of a nation that is geographically and ethnically fragmented. Afghanistan is still largely a tribal society, divided into many tribes, clans and smaller groups. Considerable variation in the types of terrain, and obstacles imposed by high mountains and deserts, account for the country's marked ethnic and cultural differences.

MALDIVES:

Scattered across the equator in the middle of the Indian Ocean, the gem like islands of the Maldives depict the rare vision of a tropical paradise. Palm fringed islands with sparkling white beaches, turquoise lagoons, clear warm waters and coral reefs teeming with abundant varieties of marine flora and fauna, continue to fascinate visitors, as it has fascinated others in the past, for thousands of years. Marco polo referred to the Maldives as the ' Flower of the Indies', and Ibn Batuta called her in his chronicles 'one of the wonders of the world.
Truly a natural wonder, the height of the islands rarely reach above two meters. The 1,190 islands, consisting of 26 atoll formations, are spread over an area of 1,000,000 square kilometers. The Maldivian atolls are a classic discovery in its own right: the word atoll has been derived from Dhivehi, the Maldivian language, from the word atholhu. The islands are surrounded by shallow crystal clear lagoons enclosed by coral reefs. The unique islands provide visitors with one of the most breathtaking views of underwater life in the world. Formed above peaks emerging from the depths of the ocean, upon layers of both living and dead coral, and remnants of other marine life, the islands are generally covered with dense tropical vegetation. Coconut palms towering above dense shrubs and hardy plants protecting the shores from erosion are natural features in most islands. The smaller islands and sand banks under formation are also wonders in themselves. These islands together embody living entities in various stages of formation, as interdependent elements in an ecology, in a food chain where birds, fish, and other marine life co-exist, with humans at its apex as caretakers for centuries. Measuring 820 kilometers north to south and 120 kilometers east to west at its greatest width, the closest neighbors are India and Sri Lanka. With a population of 263189 (1997 estimate), only 200 islands are inhabited. Another 88 islands are set aside exclusively for tourist resort development. The origins of the Maldivians are lost in ancient history.

HISTORY OF SAARC COUNTRIES

The first concrete proposal for establishing a framework for regional cooperation in South Asia was made by the late president of Bangladesh, Ziaur Rahman, on May 2, 1980. Prior to this, the idea of regional cooperation in South Asia was discussed in at least three conferences: the Asian Relations Comference in New Delhi in April 1947, the Baguio Conference in the Phillippines in May 1950, and the Colombo Powers Conference in April 1954. In the late 1970s, SAARC nations agreed upon the creation of a trade bloc consisting of South Asian countries. The idea of regional cooperation in South Asia was again mooted in May 1980. The foreign ministers of the seven countries met for the first time in Colombo in April 1981. The Committee of the Whole, which met in Colombo in August 1985, identified five broad areas for regional cooperation. New areas of cooperation were added in the following years.

OBJECTIVES OF SAARC COUNTRIES

The objectives and the aims of the Association as defined in the Charter are:
>to promote the welfare of the people of South Asia and to improve their quality of life
>to accelerate economic growth, social progress and cultural development in the region and to >provide all individuals the opportunity to live in dignity and to realize their full potential
>to promote and strengthen selective self-reliance among the countries of South Asia
>to contribute to mutual trust, understanding and appreciation of one another's problems
>to promote active collaboration and mutual assistance in the economic, social, cultural, technical and scientific fields
>to strengthen cooperation with other developing countries
>to strengthen cooperation among themselves in international forums on matters of common interest
>to cooperate with international and regional organisations with similar aims and purposes
to maintain peace in the region

INTRODUCTION

The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is an organisation of South Asian nations, which was established on 8 December 1985 when the government of Bangladesh,Bhutan, India,Maldives,Nepal,Pakistan and Sri Lanka formally adopted its charter providing for the promotion of economic and social progress, cultural development within the South Asia region and also for friendship and cooperation with other developing countries. It is dedicated to economic, technological, social, and cultural development emphasising collective self-reliance. Its seven founding members are Bangladesh,Bhutan, India,Maldives,Nepal,Pakistan and Sri Lanka . Afghanistan joined the organisation in 2007. Meetings of heads of state are usually scheduled annually; meetings of foreign secretaries, twice annually. It is headquartered in Kathmandu, Nepal.



The concept of SAARC was first adopted by Bangladesh during 1977, under the administration of President History Ziaur Rahman. In the late 1970s, SAARC nations agreed upon the creation of a trade bloc consisting of South Asian countries. The idea of regional cooperation in South Asia was again mooted in May 1980. The foreign secretaries of the seven countries met for the first time in Colombo in April 1981. The Committee of the Whole, which met in Colombo in August 1985, identified five broad areas for regional cooperation. New areas of cooperation were added in the following years.

The objectives of the Association as defined in the Charter are:  to promote the welfare of the people of South Asia and to improve their quality of life;  to accelerate economic growth, social progress and cultural development in the region and to provide all individuals the opportunity to live in dignity and to realize their full potential;  to promote and strengthen collective self-reliance among the countries of South Asia;  to contribute to mutual trust, understanding and appreciation of one anothers problemS.