yes, i do agree with netaazi for now or never cuz situation is getting worse day by day. I do agree with sukuti too. I did experience the same situation as your brothers friend. I did have to pay some extortion money to maoist while my visit to nepal. I was there cuz my uncle passed away. By the way ppl told me that palpa is safe it is not as other places in nepal but .................. well wish u good luck. BHAGWAAN PASHUPATINATH LE NEPAL KO RAKCHA GARUN