About Nepal

NEPAL

Nepal is a small country, about 140 miles by 500 miles, located north of India and south of Tibet. (About the size and latitude
of Cuba.) Closed to westerners until the 1950s, it is an ancient country of pilgrimage sites and trade routes dating back more
than 3,000 years.

Nepal is best known as the home of the Himalayas. These mountains captivate the attention of people worldwide
and motivate most visitors to Nepal. The peaks worshipped locally as the abodes of Gods challenge human
perspective and remain forever in the memory. Mountains so immense that they dwarf anything created by the hand of
man, some covered in ice and others naked spikes of black rock, soar seemingly above even the snow.

Were it not for the most spectacular mountains on the planet, Nepal might be known for history, art and architecture. For
Kathmandu was a cultural center in the time of the Buddha (500 BC), and pilgrims' trails from India are literally worn
into the rock in places. Nepal and the Kathmandu valley in particular are rich in religious art and architecture, and
there are three ancient cities, Kathmandu, Bhaktipur (the City of Devotees) and Patan, to explore.

Nepal's southern border area is jungle forest, full of elephants, rhinos, tigers, monkeys, deer, water buffalo, crocodiles, and
innumerable species of birds. The Chitwan National Park has several fine jungle camps located on the edge or just inside of
the park, which are well worth a visit for anyone interested in animal life.

And with more than 25,000 feet of altitude change in 140 miles, Nepal's white water rafting is wonderful. Day trips
and whitewater overnights are readily available, and longer rafting expeditions can be arranged.

MAP OF NEPAL

Nepal at a Glance
Location: Between India & the Tibetan Autonomous Region of the
People's Rebublic of China

Area: 147,181 Sq. Kms

Latitude: 26D 4' to 30D 27' North
Longitude: 80D 4' to 88D 12' East
Capital: Kathmandu
People: 40 Ethnic Groups & 70 Spoken Languages
Political-System: Multiparty Democracy with Constitutional Monarch
Topography: From the world's deepest gorge 'Kali-Gandaki' to the
Highest point on earth, Mt. Everest
Vegetation: As per the size of the country, Nepal possesses the
most out-standing bio-diversity in the world, ranging
from sub-tropical Rain-forests to Alpine deserts
Weather: Climate ranges from Tropical in the low lands to
 Arctic in higher altitudes
Seasons: Winter (December-February)
Summer (March-August)
Monsoon (June-August)
Autumn (September-November)
Monsoon: Mostly rains at night, making the following days
crispy clean and fresh. Most of the northern belt of
the Trans-Himalayan zone is rain-shadowed and ideal
for trekking.
National Bird: Impean Pheasant (Danfe)
National Flower: Rhododendron-Arboreum ( Lali Gurans)
World Heritage Sites (Cultural):
1. Swayambhu
2. Boudha
3. Bhaktapur
4. Changunrayan
5. Pashupatinath
6. Kathmandu Durbar Square
7. Patan Durbar Square

The only country in the world where Seven World Heritage Sites
are situated within 20 kms. of radius.

World Heritage (Natural):

1. Everest National Park (1148 sq.kms.)
2. Royal Chitwan National Park (932 sq. kms)

National Parks:
1. Royal Bardia National Park (968 sq.kms.)
2. Langtang National Park (1710 sq. kms.)
3. Shey - Phoksundo National Park (3555sq. kms.)
4. Rara National Park (106 sq. kms.)
5. Khaptad National Park (225sq. kms.)
6. Makalu - Barun National Park (2330 sq. kms.)

Wildlife Reserves:
1. Sukla Phanta Reserve (305sq. kms.)
2. Parsa Reserve (499sq. kms.)
3. Koshi-Tapu Reserve (175sq. kms.)

Conservation Areas:
1. Annapurna (2600sq.kms)
2. Makalu-Barun (2330sq kms.)

Hunting Reseve:
Dhorpatan (1325 sq. kms.)

Endangered Species:
Tiger, Rhino, Snow leopard, Clouded leopard, Red panda, Brown bear, Asamese macaque,Gangetic dolphin, Wolf, Wild elephant,
Giant horn-bill, Swamp deer, Wild yak, Nayan,Tibetan antelope, Black buck, Four horned antelope, Musk deer pigmy hog, Haspid
hare,Pangolin, Gharial, Indian bustard Saras crane, Impean pheasant Python.

Wildlife:
This country harbours one of the world's best habitat for One horned rhino, Royal Bengal tiger, Snow-leopard, Clouded - leopard,
Red panda, Blue -sheep and long snouted fish eating Gharial. Other wildlife includes wild elephant, buffaloes,bisons, blue bull,
brown bear, sloth bear, leopard, crocodiles and many varieties of cat, dog, deer and antelope families. And 840 different species
of wetland,migratory and residential birds.

A Living Cultural Heritage:

Nepal’s heritage is alive and dynamic. Shamanism, Pananimism & Witch craft are still practiced in remote regions. Temples,
shrines, monuments and monasteries are extremely active with devotees burning butter-lamps, singing hymns, chiming temple
bells and playing drums.

Festivals and Holidays

Colorful festivals and holidays, many dating to time immemorial,
characterize Nepal and particularly the Kathmandu Valley. Most holidays are scheduled
by a combination of lunar and religious calendars, and so the dates are not fixed
in relation the the western calendar. For the Calendar of major festival dates for
Nepal Year 2059 (April 2002 through April 2003, see below. For short summaries of the
festivals most interesting to visitors,
Consider planning your trip to Nepal to coincide with one of these Festivals!

Festival Calendar for 2002/2003 (2059 BS)

Sunday April 14 + New Year 2059
Sunday April 14 Sapana Tirtha Mela/ Nawabarsa/ Bisket

Wednesday May 1 Majdoor Diwas Labor day

Friday May 3 + Pariwar Diwas Family Day

Sunday May 12 + Mahathirta Puja Mother's Day
Sunday May 26 Buddha Jayanti

Sunday July 7 + His Majesty King Gyanendra's Birthday

Wednesday July 17 + Ghanta Karna, Shrawan Sankranti (Fiscal Year)
Friday August 9 + Gunla starts
Tuesday August 13 + Naga Panchami
Thursday August 22 + Janai Purnima / Khumbeswor Mela
Friday August 23 + Gaijatra
Saturday September 7 + Gokarna Aunsi Fathers' Day
Sunday September 8 + Gunla finishes
Monday September 9 + Teej / Mahila Vida
Wednesday September 18 + Indra's Pole erected
Friday September 20 + Indrajatra/Kumari Jatra
Monday October 7 + Ghhatasthapna Dasain starts
Friday October 11 Pachali Bhairab Festival

Saturday October 12 + Phulpati Kite festival

Tuesday October 15 + Vijay Dashain
Thursday October 17 Teeka / khadka Yatra

Sunday November 3 + Kag Puja Diwali starts

Monday November 4 + Laxmi Puja/ Kukur Tihar
Tuesday November 5 + Mha Puja / Gai Puja / New Year 1123 NS
Wednesday November 6 + Bhai Tika
Saturday November 9 Sanwidhan Diwas Constitution Day

Saturday January 1 New Year 2003 CE

Sunday January 11 Prithwi Jayanti

Wednesday January 15 + Magh Sankrati

Thursday January 30 Shahid Diwas Martyr's Day

Thursday February 6 + Saraswati Jayanti, Basant Panchami

Sunday February 2 + Lhosar New Year 2129
Wednesday February 19 + Prajatantra Diwas Democracy Day
Saturday March 1 + Maha Shivaratri
Saturday March 8 + Nari Diwas Woman's Day
Tuesday March 18 + Holi
Tuesday April 1 + Ghora Jatra Horse Festival
Monday April 14 New Year 2060 BS

Monday April 14 Sapana Tirtha Mela/ Nawabarsa/ Bisket

Short summaries of festivals of particular interest to visitors.

April-May
Nawabarsa and Bisket - Nepalese New Year and the festival of the God Bhairab in Bhaktapur. Four days of colorful parades
and processions

Aama ko Mukh Herne Din - Mother's Day (literally Mother's Face Looking Day)

Rato Machhendranath - the festival of Lokeswar, one of the patron Gods of Kathmandu. A 40-foot tall chariot with the
God's image installed is pushed and pulled through the streets by hundreds of worshippers.

Buddha Jyanti - Celebrating the birth of the Buddha

May - June
Kumar Sasthi - A celebration of the birth of the Hindu warrior God Kumar marks the beginning of the rice planting season.
It's also celebrated by groups of boys who indulge in stone throwing fights.

June-July
No major festivals in the worst of the monsoon season.

July-August
Ghanta Kharna - A festival commemorating an ancient victory over a particularly malevolent devil, Gathemuga. Mock
funerals are held and figures burned in effigy.

Gunla - A Buddhist Lent or Ramadan-like holy month of penance and pilgrimage, climaxing in a rollicking celebration.

Naga Panchami - A festival devoted to the snake gods, who most Nepalese believe ruled the Valley before the coming of
people.

Janai Purna - the festival of changing of the sacred thread which every Brahmin caste Hindu male wears around his torso.

August-September
Gai Jatra - A festival to the sacred cow. Among other symbolisms of the cow, cows are believed to lead the souls of the dead
to the underworld; and on Gai Jatra Newar households process around an ancient path believed to mark the city walls of
times past, in honor of recently deceased members of their families. It's also a carnival celebration with practical jokes -
something like Mardi Gras combined with April Fool's day.

Krishna Jayanti - Celebrating the birth of the Hindu God Krishna.

Gokarna Aunsi - Nepalese Father's Day

Tij Brata - A womans' festval . Worshippers undergo fasting and penance and seek good fortune and long life, and a ritual
purification of self. The three (or four) day celebration ends with a great feast.

September-October
Indra Jatra - A Kathmandu festival celebrating the legendary capture of the King of Gods, Indra, in the Kathmandu Valley.
This week-long festival is marked with many processions, street dancers, and the annual blessing of the King by the Living
Goddess of Kathmandu.

Dasain - Two weeks of happy celebration and gift-giving, interwoven with bloody animal sacrifice to appease the mother
goddess Durga.

October-November
 Diwali - A festival of lights, when homes and offices are strung with colored lights and illuminated by candles. This is also the festival of the Goddess
Laxmi, goddess of wealth, and is celebrated by much good-natured gambling.

November-December
Indriani Puja - Festival of the Goddess Indriana and of the carious mother goddesses which protect each village in Nepal.

Sita Bibaha Panchami - Celebrating the wedding of the Goddess Sita and the God Ram with mock wedding processions

Dhanya Purnima - A full moon festival celebrating the end of the rice harvest.

December-January
Seto Machhendranath - A cleansing ritual for the White (seto) Machhendranath, a counterpart god to the Red (rato)
Machhendranath who's chariot procession is in April-May.

January-February
Lhosar - the Tibetan and Sherpa New Year, celebrated by thousands at Bodhnath Stupa and monasteries throughout the
country.

February-March
Shiva Ratri - The all day and all night festival of the great God Shiva.

Holi - a rowdy festival of "colors", in which participants douse themselves (and sometimes unwary onlookers) with colored
powder and liquid, and generally have a great time.

March-April
Ghoda Jatra - a horse festival, celebrated with coach processions and races and displays on the main parade ground in
Kathmandu

LAKHE JATRA AT KATHMANDU DURBAR SQUARE

MAJOR FESTIVALS OF NEPAL

Nepal is a country of festivals. In fact, the Nepalese are said to observe more festivals than
there are days in the year. Hardly a day passes without some festivities, ceremonial
observances or pilgrimages occurring in some part of the country or the other. The following
is a brief description of the major festivals observed in the country.

NAVABARSHA

Navabarsha is the Nepalese New Year’s Day, which is a national

holidays celebrated with great pomp and pageantry. Bhaktapur
marks this occasion with the weeklong.

BISKET JATRA

On the first day, ceremonies begin around dusk outside the Bhairab Temple in Tarumadhi
Tole where a huge 4-wheeled wooden chariot has been readied. The chariot, carrying the
shrine of Bhairab and Bhadrakali, is paraded through the town. And during a break, residents
from the eastern and western halves of the town rally for possession of the chariot in a
mammoth tug-of –war. The winning side gets the privilege of taking care of the deities for the
next seven days.

At the end of the seventh day, the chariot is then taken down a steep alleyway to the banks
of the Hanumante River where an enormous 25-meter pole is raised. The next day again
there is a tug-of-war in the feeling of the pole to signify the beginning of the New Year.

In the nearby town of Thimi, the Balkumari Jatra takes place, during which the people of
Thimi honor the goddess Balkumari, one of Bhairab’s consorts. All through the day devotees
gather outside the Balkumari temple and in the evening hundreds of oil lamps are lit. The
following day the townsmen parade 32 different dieted in palanquins around the temple
where saffron and vermilion powders are tossed towards them. It is a colorful scene, a sea of
humanity bathed in sacred colors. The festival reaches its climax when the palanquin bearing
Ganesh, brought from the village of Nade, makes a dash to return home and gets chased by
all the other palanquins. Should they manage to catch Ganesh, the festival gets prolonged a
little longer but eventually Ganesh does return to Nade after which the procession moves on
to the Taleju Temple.
 Following this event, sacrifices are made to the Balkumari in the
neighboring village of Bode where there are only seven deities
borne on palanquins. In Bode takes place an event which might
seem bizarre to outsiders. A volunteer in a spiritual trance gets his
tongue pierced with an iron spike. Good fortune to the village and to
the volunteer will follow should he succeed in spending the whole
day thus spiked.

RATO MACCHENDRA NATH RATH

This is the longest as well as the most important festival of Patan. It begins with several days
of ceremonies and the fabrication of a wooden-wheeled chariot at Pulchowk, near the Ashoka
Stupa. The chariot bears the shrine of the Rato (Red) Macchendranath (the Tantric expression
of Lokeshwar) and carries a very tall spire fabricated from bamboo poles tied together from
four ends of the chariot. This unwieldy spire is around 10 meters tall and on account of which,
the chariot balances precariously. It is said that calamity is certain to strike the land in the
event of the chariot overturning or breaking down during the course of this festival (Quite
often, the chariot does collapse and break down.)

Following the construction, the chariot is towed through the streets of Patan by throngs of
devotees every day. Each day, it is put to rest in one of the many venerated spots in the city.
This goes on for a month until it comes to rest on the big field outside zoo and end with the
Bhoto Jatra, another major festival, during which the jewel-studded bhoto (vest) of
Machhendranath is displayed to the public.

BUDDHA JAYANTI

The spring full moon day when the Buddha Sakyamuni was born is celebrated as Buddha
Jayanti or Swanya Punhi. The day is thrice vlessed since it commemorates the three
important events in the Buddha's life: his birth, the day he attained enlighyenment, and the
day he passed into Nirvana.

In Kathmandu, celebrations marking Buddha Jauanti are concentrated around the stupa of
Swayambhunath, the most sacred among all Buddhist monuments in Nepal. Devotees gather
from early morning to worship and walk around the shrine in ritual circumambularion.
Offerings of butter lamps, rice, coins and flower, and prayer ceremonies go on throughout the
day. Religious scroll paintings (Paubha) and images of the Buddha are put on display.

The Buddha Jayanti celebrations are equally fascinating at Boudhanath. An image of the
Buddha is mounted on an elephant at the head of a procession that circles the stupa and
then proceeds to another stupa and then proceeds to another stupa at Chabahil. Large
symbolic lotus petals are painted on the stupa with yellow dye of saffron. Prayer flags flutter
in the air, and as night falls, the stupa and the monasteries are illuminated with the light
thousands of butter lamps.

MATA TIRTHA-MOTHER’S DAY

The Mata Tirtha festival seeks to highlight two unique aspects of Nepalese culture. One that
of the worship of the mother as representing the Divine female energy, a culture in itself, and
the other of holding one’s parents, elders and ancestors in high esteem.

On this day, men and women offer ritual food, sweetmeats and other gifts to their mothers. It
is common to see men, women and children dressed in their finery carrying gifts of food and
going to meet their mother to bow and touch her feet as a mark of veneration. The mother in
return, touches the forehead of her offspring as a gesture of blessing.

For those mothers have passed away, it is their sacred duty to visit the Mata Tirtha Ponds, a
sacred pilgrimage spot about 8 km southwest of Kathmandu, just off the Thankot road. The
rituals there are usually associated with a holy bath of one of the two adjacent ponds,
followed by a Shraddha (annual rites performed in honor of the dead.)

NAAG PANCHAMI

In Hinduism, Naag (the divine serpent) is glorified as the provider of rain. Naag is worshipped
to provide a good harvest during the monsoon season, and Naag Panchami, the fifth day of
the bright lunar fortnight, is set aside for worshipping serpents. Devotees on this day paste
pictures of Naag over their doorways with cow-dung. As part of the rituals to propitiate the
divine serpents, milk, their favorite drink is offered to the pictures. Failure to appease them
may invite droughts and disaster in the days ahead.

Devotees also throng Taudaha, a pond six kilometers to the south of Kathmandu. There they
worship Karkotak Naag, the serpent-king. Karkotak moved to this dwelling when Manjushree
drained the lake that used to cover the Valley. Pilgrims also visit the rural Newar Township of
Dhapakhyo in Lalitpur, where at Ngadha, they pay homage to the serpent-gods.

JANAI PURNI MA, RISHI TARPANI OR GUNHI PUNHI

On this day, Brahmins and Chettris have their annual ritual of changing their annual ritual of
changing their sacred thread called the Janai. Rishi Tarpani is the day to pay ablution to
Rishis, as the hermits practicing self-denial are known. The full moon day thus sees hordes of
Hindu priests with their clean-shaven heads taking dips in the holy water to purify their
bodies before they get on with their business of offering sacred
yellow threads to their clients. The native Newars of the Kathmandu
Valley call this festival Gunhi Punhi, Kwati, soup of nine different
sprouted beans, is prepared in Newar households as the specials
dish on the day’s menu.

In the Kathmandu Valley, the biggest celebration takes place at

the Kumbeswar Temple in Patan. A richly decorated lingam, the
phallic symbol of Lord Shiva, is placed on a raised platform in the
middle of the historic Kumbheswar Pond for devotees to worship.
Another ceremony that takes place here is called Byanja Nakegu
in which rice is offered to frogs. Since the water in the pond is
believed to come from Gosainkunda, via an underground channel,
a bath in Kumbhewar is considered as meritorious as one in
Gosainkunda . However, the more devout Hindus trek to the sacred
Newars of Kathmandu Valley

Nepal is a tiny Himalayan kingdom in South Asia situated in between its two gaint neighbors : China in the North and India in
the South. Even though Nepal is a small country, it has many ethnic groups inhabiting from the plains of the South to the
Himalayan region in the North. The people of Nepal are grouped mainly on the basis of the region they originated from e.g., the
people from the Himalayan region are called Sherpas who are well-known all over the world for their bravery and skill in
climbing the Himalayas. Similarly, the people from the Hills or Parbat are called Parbatee and the people from the plains of Tarai
or Madhesh are called Madhishe just to name a few. The Gorkha soldiers, who are well-known all over the world for their bravery
and loyalty ,belong mainly to the western hills of Nepal.One of those ethnic groups is the Newars of Kathmandu valley. This
article is mainly designed to explain some of the facts about Newars, which I hope will be able to create better understanding
about this complex group of the country and might be able to clear some of the misunderstanding that may exist about this
group both among the people of Nepal and others.
Although the origin of Newars is not clear, I have read that they originally migrated from India. Some say they are the Nayars
from the South India and the name gradually became Newar.It may be true because the Newars are also sometimes called
Nyars. In another book it is mentioned that the Newars migrated from Rajasthan, India. In the Udayapur district of Rajasthan,
India, there is an ethnic group called Mewars. May be the Newars were originally the Mewars of Udayapur, Rajasthan and
gradually the Mewars might have been termed as Newars. A study in this respect may be helpful to make the case clear.
"Newars" are mostly concentrated in the Kathmandu valley. Formerly, only the Kathmandu valley was known to be Nepal.
Even to this present day, most people outside Kathmandu valley consider Nepal to be only the Kathmandu valley. Before the
unification of Nepal by the late king Prithvi Narayan Shah, Kathmandu valley was inhabited almost entirely by Newars and the
valley was divided into different kingdoms and was ruled by the Newar kings, the Malla kings of Nepal. It is said that the Mallas
were forced out of India in about 1200 after a long history of ruling there. Those Mallas are mentioned in both the Mahabharata
and in Buddhist literature.( Culture Shock ! Nepal by Jon Burbank p. 20 ).History suggests that the Malla kings were very
righteous and pious. They were considered to be incarnations of Lord Vishnu. They had the power to talk to gods and goddesses
directly and they also used to get audience of the gods and goddesses in their dreams. The very presence of many majestic
temples in the valley to this day speaks about this myth. The establishment of the system of Living Goddess Kumari, which is
celebrated even to this day with the same reverence and enthusiasm, is the proof of the fact that Gods used to grant audience
to the ancient kings of Nepal.Here, I would like to mention one of the legends that tells about the story of the Living Goddess
Kumari.It says that a Malla king used to play dice with the Royal Goddess Taleju, who used to appear in front of him in human
form. One night the king lusted for Taleju, and the goddess in great wrath told him that she would never return. The king
pleaded with her, and finally Taleju promised to return as an inviolable young virgin in a Buddhist Shakya girl. Accordingly, the
establishment of the Living Goddess Kumari came into existence which is still prevalent . The Taleju Bhavani, which is the royal
goddess to this day, is unique to the Kathmandu valley. It is said that Raja Harisimha or King Hari Singh who was the ancestor of
the Malla Kings brought with him the royal goddess Taleju Bhavani from South India during 1325-1330.The early Malla period is
often thought of as a stable age of peace and plenty, when art flourished and traders brought riches and recognition to the
Kathmandu Valley.( Insight Guides :Nepal p. 34) .The Malla era of Nepal (1200-1768 B.S.) is considered to be the golden era in
the history of Nepal. Almost all the religious and cultural festivals of Nepal (Kathmandu valley) to this day is the legacy of the
Malla period.
"Newar" is badly mistaken as one of the castes of Nepal which is not true. It is an ethnic group which has a complete society
or class of society whithin itself. It has four Varnas or class as in any Hindu society. The Malla kings of Nepal were of Chatriya
Varna which is called Chatharias among the Newar community. The Newar Brahmins are considered to have migrated from
South India during the period of Malla kings. I had read this in one of the books but now I have found some of the facts which
made me believe it. For example, I have observed the way the South Indians worship the God which is similar to the way the
Newars worship ( especially those with Deeksha. Deeksha is a common term used for worshipping the God in a discipleship way
among the Newar community). Again in the Newar community (especially in the upper castes or Brahmins and Chatharias),
there is a system of Agama which is a place of worshipping their Kul Devta/Devi or Family God. In every upper caste Newar
family, there is Agama where they celebrate their festivals and conduct their rituals. I had thought that the word Agama is one
of the Newari terms because I had never heard that word outside the Newar community whereas it is a common household term
in the Newar family. But recently I had an opportunity to read one of the newsletters of the Hindu Temple of Flushing, Queens
where there was an article about Agama and the meaning of Agama. It was a pleasant surprise to learn that the word Agama
was a sanskrit word which means going nearer to the God. "AA+Gama=A~gama. AA refers to proximity. Gamana means going.
A~gama is about approaching or going near God". (Ganeshanjali--Temple Newsletter June 1997 Vol20-p.7).
I have mentioned above that the Newars are a complex kind of the society. It is so because it is not simple to understand this
group partly because the Newars are very conservative and introvert in nature who keep to themselves and as such the outside
people do not get a chance to know them better. The Newar community is divided into two major religious groups: the Hindus
and the Buddhists and within each of this group there are numerous other sub-groups and castes. The Buddhists Newars of
Nepal have many things in common with the Hindus and they share the same language and many of the local festivals and
ceremonies. The Buddhists priests, the Bajracharyas are well known for their Tantrik power and have contributed in many ways
in the religious and cultural fabrics of the society.
One of the characteristics of Hinduism is the caste system even though falsely and mistakenly so and the Newar community
is not spared by it. Though I am grossly against the caste system which I think is a big dent in this great religion, I cannot deny
the fact that it still exists in our communities despite the fact that it has been legally abolished more than three decades ago.
Actually, according to the Shastras or scriptures, God created four Varnas or class of people to run the society smoothly. Those
Varnas or class had to be classified according to their Karma or Action and their qualities and not by birth.( Bhagavat Geeta
Chapter 4 verse 13 ). But people manipulated it for their own selfish motive and instead of varnas or class, the caste system
became more in vogue. I personally request to all the Hindus specially Nepalese people to discard the caste system and make
Hinduism the most liberal and progressive religion of the world. The greatness of Hinduism lies in the fact that it is progressive
in nature and liberal in outlook. A Hindu who is liberal in outlook and reformer in action is not considered to be an anti- Hinduism
rather he is regarded as a great human being and is respected and looked upon. A good example of this is Mahatma Gandhi. In
Hinduism, there is no rigid or hard and fast rule to worship or to express your devotion to God or to be a good Hindu. You just
have to be a good human being first to be a good Hindu. It lays greater emphasis on the spiritual aspect than any other religion
of the world. I feel that had there been no caste system in Hinduism, many westerners or people of other faith would have
embraced it as their religion because of its practicality and broad and liberal outlook as well as its spiritualism. When I see
people of Indian sub-continent embracing other alien religions, I really feel sorry. It really hurts me when I see an original Hindu
turning to other faiths for some reason or other. But I take solace in the fact that this trend is not high or almost zero in Nepal
and I hope it will never happen in Nepal. Let us have just one proud Nepal and all Nepalese be one proud Nepali. Anything that
incites to divide us should be discouraged. Let each one of us be proud of each of our culture, our heritage and our ethnicity and
respect one another but please let us delete the word "caste" from our vocabulary as we appreach the 21st century. It will be
the greatest tribute to our religion and to God.°
GreenMansions
The wildlife safaris of Nepal
The jungle safaris in Nepal are the natural gift of the Gangetic Plains that connect south Nepal and north India
for 500 kilometers. This stretch was called the Char Koshe Jhari in Nepal, meaning the 'eight-mile forest stretch' that
was a formidable barrier until the 1950s. It was not only the dense foliage of the lowlands, but also the scourge of
incurable malaria, that discouraged human penetration of the belt.

Then the Americans sprayed the entire stretch with DDT in the 50s. The resultant eradication lured outsiders
to the lowlands en masse, and one of the boons of this human encroachment has been the development of
safari resorts and environmental and ecological protection of the length and breadth of the belt.

RIVER FLOWING IN WILDLIFE RESERVE

Today, some 15% of Nepal's area has been designated protected wildlife preserves. This fact is an international record
for a small and poor country. Displaying considerable political will and determination to protect and preserve its fauna and flora,
Nepal has set its own examples in sustainable development strategies, people - and - park projects, and other conservation
programs. No wonder that the WWF (World Wildlife Fund for Nature) cited the Royal Chitwan National Park (RCNP) as its
"success story, 1995" because of His Mjesty's Government of Nepal's coordination with the WWF in safeguarding and
regenerating the rhino population of the park. What transpired was that protection of one species is also the preservation of
others. Along with the unique one-horned rhino, another member of the park - the majestic Royal Bengal tiger - also benefitted,
as did other resident inhabitants and migratory guests in the park.

The ideal months for safari in Nepal's Terai lowlands are from October to May. The destinations can be reached either
by flying south, or by driving down on the countryside highways, and even by rafting down the Himalayan rapids.

Royal Chitwan National Park

. Chitwan means both 'heart of the jungle ' and 'leopard forest' - and both indicate the lush and dense depth of
the area. Easiest of the National Parks to reach, the park is one of the richest wildlife preserves in Asia, and the
most famous in Nepal. The park lies in the Chitwan Valley between the Siwlik (Churia) and the Mahabharat ranges. It
is drained by two rivers, the Narayani and the Rapti. The indigenous people are the Tharus who were immune from malaria.

ONE- HORNED RHINO OF CHITWAN NATIONAL PARK

The valley was officially designated a national park in 1973 and the Royal Nepal Army was deployed
for its protection from poaching. In 1976, its area was enlarged to 1,040 square miles from its previous
402. RCNP is also notable for another fact that it was where concessionaires were first allowed to build and
develop safari resorts and jungle lodges in Nepal.
There are numerous quality and budget resorts and lodges in Chitwan. Equally, there are many
worthwhile places to visit. While a jungle walk with a trained naturalist can reveal can reveal the
nearby vicinities, and elephant ride is the best way to penetrate the deep jungle to view rhino, the
elusive tiger, leopard, sloth bear and gaur (wild cattle). The rivers contain crocodiles and mahseer fish, and
an evening visit to the elephant stable is worth the while. Watching elephants being bathed and fed
are other memorable experiences. Chitwan is a veritable preserve for diverse animal and bird life, rare reptiles, and
ecology.

Royal Bardiya National Park

Royal Bardiya National Park is located in the remote and sparsely – populated far west Terai, and is the largest in
Nepal. It is probably the most untouched preserve for adventurous travellers. It is another tiger territory, even better
for that than Chitwan, and is also famous for game fishing which can yield the massive 50-kg plus masher fish. Viewing of
other fauna and flora is a chief pastime here, along with canoeing. This is also an ideal trailhead for trekking to the hills
of west Nepal.

The drive to Bardiya can take up to 12 hours from Kathmandu, and is a most memorable and scenic countryside drive as well as
through the streches of the Terai. One can also fly to Nepalgunj, the nearest town, from Kathmandu and drive 90 minutes to the
Park.

Royal Sukla Phanta Wildlife Reserve

Royal Sukla Phanta Wildlife Reserve is a small and remote area tucked away in the far south-west corner of Nepal. It is a gem of
a wildlife sanctuary which is notable for the swamp deer called barasingha, meaning "twelve horns" in Nepali, which number an
impressive 2,000.

CLOUDED LEOPARD

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

This lies in the eastern Terai on the floodplains of the Sapta (seven) Koshi river system. This reserve, a tapu (island), bounded
by rivers on its east and west, and a barrage to its south, is a haven for 280 species of birds and 20 different sorts of ducks, rare
swamp partridges and other waterfowls during winter. Koshi Tappu is also the only sanctuary in Nepal for wild buffalos.

The Tharus
The lowland Terai of the safari parks is equally noteworthy for its endemic and ancient people: the Tharus. These colorful and
malaria-immune "aborigines" or "tribals" of Nepal number some 600,000 today, and they speak unique dialects and practice
various rites from animism to other traditions.

HAND WORK ART FROM THARUS

Apart from the natural flora and fauna of the Terai national parks, the Tharus in themselves have become a subject of focal and
scholastic interest for many visitors to Nepal, especially those interested in art and crafts

ENTRY-PROCEDURES
All visitors except the Indian nationals must hold a passport and a valid visa. The visas can be obtained at the
Nepalese Diplomatic Missions and Consuls abroad and entry points issue visa for a 15 days. The visa will be
extended at the Department of Immigration, Tridevi Marg, Thamel, Tel: 412337/418573. The Department also issues
multi entry visa for the visitors.

ENTRY POINTS:
By Air: Tribhuvan Internaitonal Airport, Kathmandu.
By Land a: (1) Kakarbhitta (2) Birgunj (3) Belhiya (Bhairahawa) (4)Nepal- gunj (5) Dhangadi (6) Jogbani
(Biratnagar) and (7) Mahendra Nagar in Nepal-lndia border and Kodari in Nepal-China border. The overland
tourists entering the Kingdom with their vehicles must possess n international carnet.

CUSTOMS
All baggage is subject to customs' check at the point of entry. Visitors are allowed to bring in the consumable
articles such as liquor one bottle up 1.15 litres, 200 sticks of cigarette, 15 rolls of photo film and 12 rolls of movie
camera film. Visitors are also allowed to carry one binocular, one camera, one movie camera, one video camera,
one radio, one tape recorder, one bicycle, one wrist watch, one set of fountain pen, one perambulator, 15 radio
cassettes & 10 disk records into the country on the condition that they are declared and are to be taken back on
return. Carrying narcotics, arms and ammunitions are strictly prohibited. Visitors can export souvenirs to their
respective countries. The export of antiuques requires special certificate from the Department of Archaeology,
National Archive Building, Ram Shah Path, Kathmandu (Tel: 215358), Gold, silver, precious stones, wild animals and
their skins, horns, etc, all drugs whether processed or in their natural state, are prohibited to export.

CURRENCY & FOREIGN EXCHANGE

Nepali Rupee notes come in Rs. 1, Rs. 2, Rs. 5, Rs. 10, Rs. 20, Rs. 50, Rs. 100, Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000 denominations.
Coins come in 5p, 1 0p, 25p, Rs. 1 & Rs. 5 denominations.
Foreign currencies must be exchanged only through the banks or authorized foreign exchange dealers.
The receipts from such transactions are to be obtained and retained. Visitors can exchange foreign currency at the
foreign exchange counter at the airport upon arrival. Visitor other than the Indian nationals have to make the
payment in hotels, travel or trekking agencies and air tickets in foreign currency. Non-lndian visitors are not
allowed to import or export Indian Currency. The approximate value of one US Dollar is equivalent to Rs. 72 as of
June 2002.

AIRPORT TAX
Rs. 600 per person for departure to SAARC (South Asian) Countries and Rs. 700 for departure to other
international destinations. For domestic flights those flying within Nepal are required to pay Rs. 50.

TRAVEL-ROUTE
Royal Nepal Airlines the national flag carrier of Nepal and other International airlines operate
scheduled flights to Kathmandu from Bangkok, Bombay, Calcutta, Delhi, Dubai, Dhaka, Paro, Varanasi,
Frankfurt, Paris, Hongkong, Karachi, London, Moscow, Singapore and Lhasa .The International Airlines
operating their flights to Kathmandu include Aeroflot, Biman Bangladesh Airlines, China South West Airlines, Druk
Air, Indian Airlines, Lufthansa, Pakistan International Airlines, Singapore Airlines and Thai International.

INTERNAL-TRANSPORT
Royal Nepal Arilines has an extensive network of air services in the interior of Nepal. This include Taplejung,
Bhadrapur, Rajbiraj, Bhojpur, Phapl, Lukla, Lamidanda Tumlingtar, Rumjatar, and Biratnagar in the East; Nepalgunj,
Chaurjhari, Surkhet, Dang, Rolpa and Jumla, in the Mid-West, and kolti, Mahendranagar, Dhangadi, Silgadi (Doti),
Tikapur, Sanphebagar, Baitadi, and Darchula in the Far Western Region. Besides Royal Nepal Airlines, the other
domestic airlines such as Nepal Airways, Everest Air, Asian Airlines Helicopter, Necon Air provide regular and charter
services to different popular domestic destinations.

MOUNTAIN-FLIGHT
Royal Nepal Airlines and other domestic Airlines in the private sector also operate breathtaking mountain flights for
the tourists round the year.

AIRPORT-TRANSPORTATION
In addition to metered taxis, limousine service is also available at the airport for transport to major hotels in the city.

OTHER-TRANSPORT-ARRANGEMENTS
Metered taxis having black plates with white figures are available in Kathmandu. Metered tempos (three wheeler
scooter) are also available and are slightly cheaper than taxis. Bicycles, motorcycles and rickshaws are also
available on hire. The fare for the bicycles or motorcycles is fixed wheareas the fare of rickshaws is to be
negotiated. There are regular bus services between the main town of the Kathmandu Valley. The Bus Terminal is
located at Gongabu (new bus terminal) and Bagbazar (old bus terminal). Similarly, scheduled bus services for
outside the Valley operate from the Gongabu Bus Terminal which is located at Balaju, Kathmandu.

TREKKING-PERMIT
The Department of Immigration located at Tridevi Marg, Thamel (Tel 412337) issues trekking permit for the tourists
who intend to trek any part of the country. Trekking permit fee for different trekking areas are fixed as follows.

Trekking areas Trekking permit fee

1. Annapurna,
Everest,Langtang and Rara
2. Dolpa and Kanchenjunga
3. Manaslu
4. Mustang and upper Dolpa
Equivalent to US$ 5 per person per week for the first four weeks and
US$ 10 per week thereafter.
Equivalent to US$ 10 per person per week for the first four weeks and
US$ 20 per week thereafter.
US$ 75 per person per week.
US$ 700 per person for the first ten days and US$ 70 per person per
day thereafter.

Note: Trekking to Dolpa, Kanchenjunga, Makalu and Mustang can be undertaken through registered trekking
agencies only. To Trek in a national park area an entrance fee of Rs. 650.00 is to be paid separately. Likewise, an
entrance fee of Rs. 200.00 is also collected from every trekker going into the Annapurna Conservation Area. There
are several government registered trekking agencies in Nepal to conduct such trekking programmes.

FACILITIES
Nepal has every type of accomodation facilities that a tourist might ask for. This ranges from the international
standard star hotels to budget hotels and lodges. Similarly one can also have a choice of sightseeing from a range of
 different tour packages. In order to have an assured quality service it is advisable to use the facilities and services
of government registered hotels, lodges, travel agencies the licensed tour guides only and engage an authorized
guide or porter only through a registered travel/trekking agency.

SOALTEE OBEROI ONE OF A 5 –STAR HOTEL OF NEPAL

Nepal's Culture and Religions

Nepal is a rich and complex mix of different cultures and traditions, melded over thousands of years into a unique whole. For the
western traveler there is much that is familiar, and many surprises. Family and religion are of paramount importance, and are
constantly reflected throughout the culture. Nepal moves to a different rhythm than the West.

Nepal's Historic Tradition - A Collision of Cultures

Kathmandu has long been a magnet to peoples, with it's highly fertile soil, pleasant climate, and ancient holy sites.
Stone tools are occasionally found which make it clear that Man had discovered the ancient lakebed which is the
Kathmandu Valley at least 30,000 years ago. It seems likely that many of the holy sites and local deities still
worshipped were established by these peoples in great antiquity.

Little is known of these Neolithic Men today. The forces which shape modern Nepal arrive on the scene about 1,000
BCE, in the form of waves of immigration from the west and the east. In the west, the Khas, an Indo-Aryan people,
probably related to the "aryans" who arrived in India 1,500 years earlier, settled in western Nepal and had a capital or
important city in the western part of the Kathmandu Valley.

Some what earlier Tibeto-Burman people known as the Kirat had settled in the East of Nepal, and had also
arrived in the valley. Their State is mentioned in many old chronicles, and King Yelambar of Nepal is reported to have
taken part in the the battle recorded in the epic, Mahabharata (possibly 8thC BCE).

By about 300 AD a dynasty of the Licchavi family had established itself in Kathmandu. The Licchavis were part of the
waves of immigrants from the south, which were to continue for the next 1,000 years. In many ways this was the great
flowering of Nepal, and the remaining artifacts of this time are wonders of craftsmanship and artistic merit.

After 500 years of Licchavi rule, a "dark" period occurs, of which records are very limited. This seems to have been time
of stagnation and close cooperation with powerful States in northern India. From the 10th to 12th centuries local power
began to assert itself, possibly again by intermarriage with immigrants the south and west; and by the 12th century the
Malla dynasty arose. Destined to rule in "interesting times", the Malla Kings held sway for 600 years, though the Valley was
often divided into warring states, with three Kings on the throne for much of that time. Most of the great architectural
heritage of Nepal and amazing craft works in wood and metal dates from the Malla times.

Also in the 10th and 12th centuries, immigration from the north became an important part of Nepal's cultural mix. Early in
that period the Sherpas moved south from the Tibetan Plateau and settled amidst the great mountains in Nepal's north. Two
centuries later, the Tamangs, remnants of Ghengis Khan's cavalry, settled in the north and east. In recent years, Tibetans
fleeing from the Chinese occupation have settled in the north of the country as well.

In the 18th century the Khas people of the west of Nepal, augmented and interculturated by immigrants from the south,
united under King Prithvi Narayan, and in a series of politically and militarily brilliant manouvers he siezed control of all
three "States" in the Valley and reunited Nepal. His dynasty continues to this day in King Gyaneendra Bir Bikram Shah
Dev. The Shah dynasty rule was partially interrupted from the mid-1800s to 1951 by a series of hereditary Prime Ministers
who dominated the Kings and exercised autocratic rule. Since 1990 the King has stepped aside in favor of a
parlimentary democracy, now in its third government.

Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of the repeated influxes of people into Nepal is that it all happened relatively peacefully.
Except for a one-week incursion of Moghul troops from India in the 14th century, there has never been an "invasion" as
such. Instead, in what in hindsight seems typically Nepalse , each new group was incorporated into the society, enriching it
and adding to the complex fabric.

Hinduism and Buddhism: 1+1=3

The religious structure of Nepalese society is formally Hindu; but here and only here the interplay of
peoples and their religious traditions has produced a rich fusion of Hindu and Buddhist faiths. It is common
for both Hindus and Buddhists to worship at the same shrine, for many gods and saints are cross-overs, often
known by a different name but holding the same attributes.

The original inhabitants of the valley were animists, a tradition which survives in the multitude of spirits, demons, local
deities, and stones which receive dutiful worship to this day. The Aryan groups from the west were probably responsible for
the early Hindu traditions, worshipping the God Shiva in the manifestation of Pashupati, Lord of the Beasts.

The rise of Buddhism in India in the 5th through 3rd centuries BCE was to have a lasting effect on Nepal. Many
Nepalese (thought few scholars) believe the Buddha himself visited Kathmandu. It is possible that Ananda, the Buddha's
greatest disciple, visited the city of Patan, which even then was a cultural center. More certain is the visit of the Indian Emperor
Ashok in the 3rd century BCE. Several Buddhist reliquary mounds, called Stupas, in and around Patan are reliably
attributed to him.

Buddhism swept Nepal in succeeding centuries, and though the Licchavi Kings were Hindu, they paid respect to
their heavily Buddhist subjects. Both Hindu and Buddhist traditions adapted from the pre-existing animist practices
and from each other. Indeed, in the medieval period, when both religions' practice adopted mystical, Tantric traditions,
they were almost indistinduishable from each other.

But the continuing pressures of immigration from the south, who were mostly high caste Hindus and hence firmly
wedded to the caste system, and of a Hindu autocracy brought worship of both Shiva and Vishnu to the fore; and by
the time the Malla dynasty ascended (12th century), the heyday of Nepalese Buddhism had passed. Except in the north
of the country, where Sherpas and other northerners maintained their Buddhist tradiiton, Nepal became a more overtly
Hindu country, including the introduction of a highly formalized caste system in the 14th century.

By that time, however, the Buddhist influence was permanent. Even today many Buddhist groups live in the Valley, and
the living Goddes of Kathmandu (whose blessing of the King is a deadly serious annual rite) is chosen from among Buddhist
metalworkers.

The Nepal you will experience as visitors, and the temples, Stupas, and shrines you will visit reflect this complex heritage. Let
us show it to you and help you to interpret what you see.

LAKHE DANCE AT BHAKTAPUR

Nepal's Geography and Climate

Nepal has Mount Everest at more than 29,000 feet in its north; but elevations of a few hundred feet only are common at
her southern border. This great diversity of terrain in a small space contributes to the country's fascination for travelers. The
country is broadly divided in to three areas:

The southern, lowland plains called the Teri. This is where Chitwan National Park is located.

The central hills where altitudes range up to 7,000 to 8,000 feet. Kathmandu is located in this zone.

The high mountains, which rise steeply in the north.

Nepal has five seasons, three or four of which are suitable for tourism. It's location on the Indian subcontinent makes it
subject to monsoon rains; and while trekking in the monsoon has some advantages (like very few tourists), it's not what
most people want.

In the mountains, of course, below-freezing temperatures are common; but the central hills are generally comfortable year
round, and the Terai is hot and tropical.

Time of Year Season Tourism Opportunities

mid-June to mid-September Monsoon Not suitable for most tourism
mid-September to mid-December Dry and Temperate Prime season
mid-December to mid-February Colder. Some passes Best time for mid altitude-
THEN treks
mid-February to mid-April Dry and Temperate Prime season
mid-April to mid-June Warm and humid Lovely in the high mountains

About The Mountains

EVEREST (29,028 feet / 8,848 meters) is named posthumously after Sir George Everest, Surveyor General of the
Great Trigonometrical Survey of India. It is a great irony, since in his life Sir George was of the firm opinion that peaks should
wear their original names. The peak’s old names are Chomolungma (Tibetan, meaning Goddess Mother Mountain) and
Sagarmatha (Nepali, meaning One Whose Forehead Touches the Sky). Now often climbed, but still never mastered.
MAKALU (27,504 feel / 8,463 meters) rises at the head of Makalu and Barun Glacier National Park, a high
mountain wilderness of unsurpassed beauty. Makalu sits between Everest and Kanchenjunga (number three in
height), on the Tibetan border. Of all the great peaks, Makalu is the one with the most otherworldly presence according to the
Sherpa people who live in its shadow.

KANCHENJUNGA (27,943 feet / 8,598 meters) has five summits, it's name derived from the Tibetan words for "five treasures"
or "five brothers". The original inhabitants of Sikkim, south of Kanchenjunga, the Lechpas, believed that it was from
Kanchenjunga's ice that the first man and woman were carved, and they also worshipped it as the place where the dead go.
Today a trek to the two Base Camps isn't life threatening, but it's still exciting!

AMA DABLAM (22,139 feet / 6,812 meters) is a favorite at Friends in High Places. To western eyes the south face of the
mountain looks like a priest or minister in robes holding up both hands in a blessing, but the same shape reminds easterners of
a Dablam, or an amulet box used to hold a small image of a God. Ama means "mother", so Ama Dablam is "Mother's Reliquary".
By either meaning it is a wonderful, poetic mountain.

CHO OYU (26,653 feet / 8,201 meters) has an almost table-top flatness at its summit. Some believe that in
ancient times Padma Sambhava, Buddhism's only "saint", wrote texts with messages to save earth from a
time when the world was in chaos, and buried these texts on Cho Oyu. The lamas call those texts Cho. Oyu
means "turquoise", and whether Padma Sambhava's treasures are there, we know that turquoise in plenty comes out of
the mountain.

DHAULAGIRI (26,690 feet / 8,137 meters) stands along one side of the valley of the Kali Gandaki river, deepest in the world.
The three and one half mile chasm was formed by the river, as the mountains rose up around them over the millenia. From
Dhaulagiri to Nilgiri and Annapurna 1 on the otherside, the valley is barely four miles wide, making an almost perfect V shape.

PICTURE OF WORLD’S HIGHEST MOUNTAIN

MOUNT EVEREST

The Cultural Riches of Nepal

Most people come to Nepal because of the mountains. That's a great reason. But not everyone wants to trek for weeks, and all

visitors spend at least some time in the Kathmandu area.

The Kathmandu Valley is an amazingly rich treasure trove of history, art, and architecture interwoven with a complex culture.
Katmandu’s uniquely favorable climate and soil fostered an early blossoming; and the heritage of those ancient cultures means
there is wonderful sight seeing which is, "rich enough to consume several lifetimes."

KATHMANDU VALLEY

The Magnificent Seven - The World Heritage Sites of the Kathmandu Valley
The Valley of Kathmandu is fertile, flat and compact. It is situated at the altitude of between 1,200 to 1,500 meters
(between 4,000 to 5,000 feet).

The valley is also small, with an area of only 220 square miles (570 square kilometers). Yet in its smallness, there are records
of seven World Heritage Sites declared by the UNESCO - a fact unrivalled anywhere in the world! The seven man-made
wonders are the milestones of Nepal's past and a "living museum".

Kathmandu Durbar Square It is also called Hanuman Dhoka (the gates of Hanuman) which is divided into two principal
chowks (courtyards). The outer one is renowned for the Kumari Ghat (the house of the Kumari - or virgin - "living goddess"),
Kasthamandap (the wooden house), Narayan Mandir, the stone statue of Garuda (man-bird), and Shiva-Parvati Temple House.

KATHMANDU DURBAR SQUARE

The inner chowk is the old Palace complex. The principal chowk-within-a-chowk is Nasal chowk, the seat of important national

ceremonies, including coronations. Mohan chowk, Sundari Chowk and Lohan Chowk are other courtyards. There are four towers

named after Basantpur, Kirtipur, Lalitpur, (Patan) and Bhaktapur.

There are many exceptional temples in the area, the most notable being the Teleju Temple dedicated to the female royal deity,
Taleju Bhawani. This ultra-sacrosanct temple is opened only once a year, and only the king and certain priests can enter it.

KATHMANDU DURBAR SQUARE

Patan Durbar Square Patan is also notable for the four Ashoka at the four cardinal directions of the city. The palaces square
sits between these four milestones. The royal place's sprawling landmarks are Sundari Chowk, Tusha Hiti, Mul Chowk, Bidya
Mandir, Taleju shrine, Taleju Bhawani Temple, Golden Gate, Keshab Narayan Chowk, and Degu Talle.stupas erected by Emperor

PATAN DURBAR SQUARE

The outer perimeters are noteworthy for the Krishan Mandir in stone, Hari Shanker Temple, Bishwanath Mandir, Bhimsesen
Mandir, Mangal Hiti and others.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is entered through a massive royal gate, and opens up to a most unspoiled complex of palaces,
shrines and other landmarks in the Valley. On the right are a pair of statues in stone of Ugrachandi with her 18 arms. Then there
is the Rameshwor Temple, In the middle of the square the gilded statue of King Bhupatindra Malla seated on a tall stone pillar
faces the most exquistitely artistic Suun Dhoka, or the golden gate, leading into the royal palace. The royal palace is also know
a s the "palace of 55 windows", next to which is the National Art Gallery. The inner portion of the palace has the Taleju couryard
and her house. Beyond is the Sundari Chowk.

BHAKTAPUR DURBAR SQUARE

The outer perimeters of the complex are replete with pillars and pavilions: Chyasalin Mandap, Duga Temple, Taduchhen Bahal,

Batsala Durga, Pashupati Temple, Taumadhi Tole and others. To the right, and in another square, is the famed 30-meter (98

feet) Nyatapola Temple, the tallest and most multi-roofed edifice in Nepal. To its right is the Kshi Bishwanath Temple. On the

side of the square is the vantage Nyatapola Cafe, and beyond it is the community of the famous potters.

Swayambhunath is a Buddhist stupa on a western hill of Kathmandu. More than 2,500 years old, this ancient landmark is
connected to the visit of Manjushree who created Kathmandu - a lake then - by draining its waters. The sage saw a celestial
lotus in bloom on the top of this hill and sanctified it.

SWAYAMBHU

The stupa of Swayambhu is a hemispherical mound of compacted earth, and is built to specific rules, and is replete with

symbols. The mound represents the four elements of earth, fire, wind and water. The 13 gilded rings of the spire symbolize the

13 steps of the ladder leading to nirvana, the final salvation. The shrine is bedecked in colorful prayer flags.

The pilgrim's progress to Swaymbhunath's holy premises is actually through a sylvan path of 365 steps. The entrance is graced
by a huge vajra (symbol of thunderbolt). Statues of Buddha are on the four corners of the stupa. Statues of goddessses Ganga
and Jamuna guard the eternal flame behind it. There is a Tibetan gompa (monastery) and innumerable chaityas (small stupas).
The balconies of Swaymbhunth are ideal for viewing the entire Valley.

Boudhanath This is another Buddhist stupa, but is built on flat surface, and is the largest in Nepal. It is in various levels of
terraces, and is painted with safron garlands and adorned with prayer flags. It is set in a mandala (mystical circle) design.
Altogether 108 Buddha images and 147 insets of prayer wheels adrn the base of the huge circular edifice. The settlement of
Boudhanath has the largest community of Tibetans-12,000 in all.
 BOUDHANATH

Changu Narayan This is the most ancient Hindu temple in Kathmandu, and is dedicated to lord Vishnu. Another fact is that the
complex is built on a peninsula which was not submerged in water as most of the flat valley once was. The lavishly decorated
two-tiered principal temple stands on a spacious courtyard, and is littered with artistic and priceless statues, idols and
sculptures, some dating back to 4th century AD.
Pashupatinath The most sacred Hindu temple in Nepal, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva. In February-March, the site holds the
famed Maha Shivaratri festival, the great night of

Shiva. TEMPLE OF PASHUPATINATH

The Pashupatinath complex is very large, with guesthouses, temples, shrines and other landmarks. Its burning ghats on the

riverbanks are the holiest in Nepal.

The aforementioned seven wonders of the Valley are not singular destinations. Each one leads to other many and different

attractions - other temples, shrines and monasteries, bazaars, rural areas, short treks, countryside visits and other joyful

activities.

SOME OTHER TEMPLES

TALEJU TEMPLE AT KATHMANDU KRISHNA MANDIR AT PATAN DURBAR

DURBAR SQUARE SQUARE

The Kathmandu valley has 888 UNESCO-classified world heritage monuments. This is more than any other country in the world,
all in one small valley. Two thousand years of high culture in Kathmandu have left a profusion of exotic and exquisite art,
architecture, and religious artifacts.
PEOPLE

On the trading route between the populated Gangetic Plains of India and Tibet, two entirely different
ethnic strains have mingled in this small area to form an interesting mix of peoples.

The Mongoloid people of the Tibetan plateau form 20% of modern Nepal's population and includes the
tribal groups of Tamang, Rai, Limbu, Bhote and Sunwar in the east and the magars and Gurungs of the
west.The Bhotias are Mongloid people who gradually moved off the Tibetan platuea and now inhabit
parts of Nepal and large parts of Sikkim, Bhutan and the Garhwal and Kumaon regions of India.

The Newars of Mongoloid origins, migrated to the Kathmandu Valley over 2000 years ago and form the predominant group
there. Modern Nepali cultural heritage strongly reflects the architectural contributions made by the Newari dynasties that have
ruled Nepal over the centuries.

The Bhotias include the world famous Sherpas who migrated from Tibet more than 600 years ago and now inhabit the eastern
valleys of Everest region.

The Dolpas and Lhopas of Dolpo and Mustang live in valleys north of the main Himalayan ridge and are almost entirely preserve
their Tibetan culture.

The Indo-Nepalese groups comprise 80% of Nepal's population and include the people of the Terai (very similar to the people of
the neighbouring Indian states of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar), the Paharis or the 'Hill people' and the Tharus, Thakalis.

SHORTLY
Nepalese people are mainly divided into two distinct groups the Indo-Aryans and the Mangoloids. Kathmandu Valley is the
spiritual and cultural meeting point of all these groups. Nepal is the only Hindu Kingdom in the world. Hindu Temples and
Buddhist shrines are scattered all over the kingdom. Nepal is the birthplace of Lord Buddha, the Light of Asia. There is a
complex blending of Hinduism and Buddhism in Nepal.

FARMERS LAMAS

Things to Do and See in Nepal

Trekking
Since most of Nepal is very rugged terrain without roads, people and goods have traveled by foot for centuries. Following the
opening of the country, hiking and camping expeditions have become popular. This activity is called Trekking. While it is entirely
possible to take a backpack and go trekking by ones self, this mode is usually the province of the young and highly adventurous
traveler. Most people prefer the assurance and safety of having arrangements made ahead of time and a professional, English
speaking guide along on trek. All our guides are Sherpas, so trekkers get the wonderful experience of making a Nepalese friend
and seeing the country through his eyes.

TREKKING

The best way to trek is with a tented camp, where porters and pack animals bring a kitchen, dining tent, sleeping and washing
tents, foam mattresses, supplies, tables & chairs, portable toilet, medical kit, and all the trekkers' equipment along. Excellent
food, attentive staff, and personal service make this a first class experience from beginning to end. Indeed, this is the only way
to trek in much of the country, where foreigners are uncommon and the local villages and people aren't prepared to support
trekkers.

In some of the more highly traveled areas, village inns (often called "teahouses") have sprung up to support the needs of
trekkers. Along these routes food, lodging, and shops carrying such luxuries as toilet paper, chocolate bars, and beer are
available. For the budget traveler, sticking to these main routes with a guide and a porter and staying in the teahouses makes
for an inexpensive holiday.

History and Culture

The Kathmandu valley has 888 UNESCO-classified world heritage monuments. This is more than any other country in the world,
all in one small valley. Two thousand years of high culture in Kathmandu have left a profusion of exotic and exquisite art,
architecture, and religious artifacts. Guided tours with professional, English-speaking guides are recommended for the main
attractions. For travelers interested in Tibetan Buddhism, Hinduism, Yoga, Meditation, or Eastern medicine, Nepal is a treasure
trove.

Whitewater Rafting

RAFTING IN TRISHULI RIVER

Nepal's great altitude change makes for some of the most spectacular whitewater rafting anywhere. Top quality, modern
equipment and highly experienced guides make it safe. Many travelers take a 1 or 2 day rafting trip as part of their visit. For the
true rafting enthusiast, expeditions of up to 2 weeks are available. Inexpensive and a LOT of fun!

Wildlife Jungle Expeditions

The Chitwan National park in the southern lowlands of Nepal offers wonderful Safari experiences and wildlife viewing. Travelers
ride elephants and jeeps, canoe and walk in the park amid a dozen species of jungle beasts. Rustic but comfortable lodges built
of local materials in indigenous styles enhance the experience.

The mountains without trekking

For those not interested in trekking, the mountains are still readily accessible. On clear days, especially in the fall, the
Himalayas are visible from Kathmandu. Just a short drive away on the hills that make up the valley rim the entire central
Himalaya is in clear view. Stay overnight for spectacular sunrise views. There is a daily mountain flight, a chance to get into
and among Everest and the other great peaks. The views from a small plane are unforgettable. And if ballooning is more your
style, ride in a hot-air balloon high above the Kathmandu valley. This is truly a "top of the world" experience!

Amenities
Kathmandu has hotels and restaurants catering to every taste and budget, from elegant to cheap. There are superior but
modestly priced hotels for the travelers; with options for inexpensive but clean and decent places for those on a budget.
Preferences of any party or group can be accommodated in selecting lodgings. There are booked rooms on a B&B basis and
allow travelers to sample Kathmandu's restaurants on their own for lunch and dinner. And if someone like shopping for clothes,
silks, spices, handicrafts, copper and brass ware and a million things more, Kathmandu is paradise. There are shops catering to
every possible tourist taste and interest, and also thousand-year-old markets where westerners rarely venture.

KUMARI DANCE WHILE SERVING IN RESTAURENT