Nepal

Hridya Chandra Singh Pradhan

2013-08-23T23:39:00.003-07:00

Hridya Chandra Singh Pradhan was born in 1972 B.C at Maruhiti, Kathmandu. His childhood name was Chandra Prasad. He was white, lien and dwarf. Early in the life he was caught by asthma at the age o f5years. One day, Hridaya Chandra went to great poet Lekhanath poudel and requested the poet to teach him to write poem. But, the great poet dominated him. He said “you uneducated form Newar community with unclear pronunciation, how can you write the poem? It is not easy to be a poet. You can’t be a poet.” The domination, hate and degradation of poet Lekhanath pushed Hridaya to be a poet. He promised to be a poet in future. In fact, he was not an academically qualified student. His bad health condition compelled him to discontinue his school education. He was from poor family he could not get the nutritious food too. He was a chronic asthma diseased person usually with 102®C fever and continuous coughing. Instead of his worse health condition, he never defeated, he spent his all time to add literal heritage in Nepali literature.

He is not only a poet; he is a dramatist essayist, a successful criticizer of Nepali literature. He is also a progressive writer. His writing pushes the people for patriotism, equality in society and social changes. His writings are against the conservative tradition and domination in the society, Simplicity, clarity, intellectuality, superiority of thought, impressivity is character found in his literature. His some famous creativity are Tis Rupiyako Note, Kehi Nepali Natak, Chheu Lager, jungleko Chita, Maruvumiko Lekhak, Swasni Manchhe, Chhoro Sita, Bhanubhakta Ek Samikshya, Napali Kabya Ra Usaka Pratinidhi Kabi. Next his important output is “Sabda suddi Bichar” which teaches the Nepali to speak Nepali language correctly. It is also answer to Lekhanath Poudel.

It is better to say Hridaya is the first literature to initiate progressive current in Nepali literature. He provided fix roadmap to the upcoming offspring by explaining theoretical and practical aspect of progressive literature with his creative opinion. According to his opinion, people’s literature should not only be simple, understandable by peasants, illiterate and labors, it should not only for people; it should be for upgrading the consciousness of them. Creation without the thought is a dead body. But only the thought is not enough, the art is also essential, according to Hridaya.

Such a progressive literature with chronic asthma could not serve Nepali literature for a long period. During his life, he was caught by T.B. He could get cooperation from no one. He had gone to prime minister; Bishweshwor Prasad Koirala didn’t extend his hand for Pradhan’s worst condition. On later, Pradhan successes to treat his disease in India but lost his six ribs and one part of lung. So he was never a completely a healthy person. He always struggled with disease, starvation, and lack but never tired to write literature. He was so poor. During his treatment, the doctor suggested him to have eggs daily but he could not success to fulfill his needs. His poverty and continues struggle compelled the progressive literature Hridaya Chandra Singh to sleep forever in the lap of god at the age of 44 years in 10^th Magh, 2016 B.S.

Anglo War Held between Nepal and Britain

2013-08-16T11:15:00.003-07:00

Anglo War Held between Nepal and Britain

We know that Anglo War held between Nepal and Britain in 1814 A.D – 1816 A.D that was continued for 2 years. During this period, many brave Nepalese and brave soldiers of our country such as Balbhadra Kunwar, Amar Singh Thapa, Bhakti Thapa e.t.c. showed their braveness in the war and preserved our country from the Britain being attacked. It was not too easy to defeat our country’s brave soldiers by the Great Britain. Our national Heroes or brave soldiers fought with the Great Britain till death. Many brave soldiers were died on the war land. They also were given full of respect by the Great Britain for their braveness shown during the war being the enemies too.

Anglo-War was held because the Britain wants to make close relationship with our country Nepal in trade & others. But, the prime minister Bhimsen Thapa know that if trade relationship was established with the British, then the Britain would disturb the trade relation with Nepal & Tibet & they would establish trade relation with Tibet which is disadvantage for Nepal. So, Bhimsen Thapa didn’t let them to establish trade relation with our country Nepal. And while he had been to Banaras with King Rana Bahadur Shah when ruled from the country Nepal, he made the groups of Asia for chasing the Britain from the Asia. So, the Britain want to attack the Nepal for taking the revenge with Bhimsen from the Asia, So, the Britain want to attack the Nepal for taking the revenge with Bhimsen Thapa and showing him down. And our Government had not given full permission to the Britain to enter our country. As our country is rich in natural resources, the Britain wants to come in our country but they were not allowed that time. So, the Britain wants to attack our country to take the cool places of our country. For this Anglo-war held between Nepal & Britain.

Nepali Brave soldiers were separated in different places and area for protecting those places form being attacked by the Britain in those places. They defeated the Britain badly and saved those places. But some of the places were occupied by the Britain due to their powers, and maintained the signature in Sugauli Treaty.

Beauty: Both physical and Mental Things

2013-08-07T04:53:00.006-07:00

When we talk about beauty, generally people take it as physical thing or matter as if it were the matter of sight. We can see flowers as beautiful. We can visualize the beautiful sky. So, we think that they are just the matter of eye sight.

However, beauty is not only the matter of physically thing. But also, it must consist of internal quality like the talent, the intellect, the kind, the helpful, and other inner qualities. Especially, when we talk about a person, there come both physical and internal aspects of beauty.

There is saying that we can’t judge a book by its cover. So, we can say that when the beauty is concerned about lifeless thing, it is only matter of sight and visibility but when we talk about beauty in human sense, it should be both physical and internal. A person can be beautiful and attractive. He can be pleasant personality. However if he doesn’t deserve the good qualities like talent, intellect, love, kind, sympathy and fellow felling, he/she becomes useless or valueless. His physical beauty can’t support of help him. He/she become a person like empty tin, (Absence of inner quality). We love to see a beautiful flower. But it is valueless if it doesn’t have smell. To be one complete flower it should consists both physical and internal thing. So, like this if we want to be good person. We should have both physical and internal things as well.

But, in this age, beauty has been something like saleable thing in the market. A beautiful girl comes to advertisement in modeling. He/she can get a huge amount of money. This is like commercialization of the beauty. It is nothing good because beauty is taken as objects. But beauty shouldn’t be taken as commodity.

Even, people are attracting by the outer beauty, most of people appreciate that beauty which is natural or good in inner thing also. They look so fresh and charming. A person should be beautiful in natural way. Now a day, we can found many people who want to look beautiful by going to beauty parlor and using some ointment, Cream, Powder. This may help them to look beautiful and more attractive. But it’s for short time or short period. It is not a permanent beauty. It is just skin-deep matter. So, one can’t get good quality of beauty by using these things.

Many people define in different ways. But the great romantic poet, John Keats, defines “Beauty as the truth”, he takes the beauty is great things in life. So, in cannot define beauty just by watching through his eyes, he should also utilize his intellect to understand beauty. Therefore, the concept of beauty is not physical entity. But it should comprise things that go beyond our physical eyes.

Geometry collides with physics

2013-08-07T04:23:00.002-07:00

Once a geometry teacher was walking in the school corridor, He accidently collided with a lady teacher who used to teach Physics. The lady became furious and cried Out “Are you blind? You fool! You allowed your center of gravity to all beyond your legs and purposely struck me.” Madam, it is not matters of ground, but you are making an acute angle with horizontal surface and your projecting shoulder collided my hand”. “You shameless and worthless fellow have you not learnt Newton’s first law of motion?,” Screamed the lady. Then reply made by geometry teacher was – “Madam, it is not my fault. You ought to have come parallel to me. Don’t you know parallel lines never intersect! You came diagonally bisecting me”. As the temperature of the lady rose, she shouted,” I shall knock you down and change the position of your hair of the head with, an external force in the form of a heel from my sandal.” The geometry teacher angrily said, “You are at present a line. I will reduce to ray. Then from a ray to a segment and finally point reducing to infinity.”

By this time a large crowd had gathered there. Then the principal who had done PHD in magnetism came and replied on. He said, “Neither of you is to be blamed for it. You should not pass without striking each other.” How is it?” said both geometry and physic teachers. Then the principal replied by suggesting that they could go and study the magnetic statement, that opposite poles always attract each other.

Views of Pokhara

2013-08-05T13:07:00.004-07:00

Pokhara’s bewitching beauty has been the subject of many travel writers. Its pristine air, spectacular backdrop of snowy peaks, serene lakes and surrounding greenery make it ‘the jewel in the Himalaya’, a place of remarkable natural beauty. With the magnificent Annapurna range forming the backdrop and the serenity of three major lakes – Phewa, Rupa and Begnas – Pokhara is the ultimate destination for relaxation. Pokhara Valley, gateway to the Annapurna region where many a trekker finds his Shangri-la, sits high on the list of ‘must visit’ places in Nepal.

Pokhara once lay on the important trade route between India and Tibet. To this day, mule trains set up camps on the city outskirts, bringing goods from remote Himalayan regions including Mustang. Gurungs and Magars, who have earned world-wide fame as fierce Gurkha warriors, are predominant here. Thakalis, indigenous of the Thak Khola region of Mustang, are known for their entrepreneurship and run tea houses along the trek routes in the Annapurna region.

Mountain Views:
Pokhara is blessed with stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna range which forms its backdrop. The mesmerizing Machhapuchhre also called Mt. Fishtail dominates the scenery because of its proximity to the valley and can be seen from anywhere in Pokhara. Stretching from east to west, the Annapurna massif includes Annapurna 1 to IV and Annapurna South. Further away are seen the giants, Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Manaslu (8,163m).

Phewa Lake:
Pokhara owes its popularity to the enchanting Phewa Lake, and along its eastern shore has grown the Lakeside or Baidam, a thriving resort town of hotels, restaurants, bars and souvenir shops that allow travelers to relax and enjoy. Phewa Lake is the largest and most beautiful of the three lakes, attracting a large number of visitors who enjoy boating on its placid waters. Boats can be hired, and many visit the island temple of Barahi in the middle of the lake.

Barahi Temple:
Located in the middle of Phewa Lake, Barahi Temple is one the most important monuments in Pokhara. The two-storied pagoda is dedicated to the boar manifestation of Ajima who represents the female force, Shakti. Sacrifices take place here, and the largest crowds of devotees are seen on Saturdays.

Seti:
An amazing aspect of Pokhara is the vanishing river, Seti, which goes underground and disappears in many places along its route through the city. At various points Seti is barely 2 m wide but its depth reaches an astonishing 20 m! A good spot for watching the river is Mahendra Pul at Bhimsen Chowk, a bridge near the old Mission Hospital. Here the river can be seen in all its ferocity gushing down the deep gorge that it has carved over millennia.

Devi’s Fall:
Locally known as the Patale Chhango (Nether Fall), Devi’s Fall is a fascinating waterfall located about 2 km south-west of Pokhara Airport on the Siddhartha Highway.

Mahendra Gupha:

This is a large limestone cave at a two-hour walk to the north of Pokhara. Locally known as the House of Bats, it is famous for its stalactites and stalagmites.

World Peace Pagoda:

The World Peace Pagoda can be seen on top of a hill on the southern fringe of Phewa Lake. It has four images of the Buddha facing the four directions. The dome-shaped pagoda is an impressive sight, and its hilltop location commands a great view. It is a great vantage point which offers spectacular views of the Annapurna.

The Old Bazaar:
A stark contrast to Lakeside Pokhara, the old Pokhara Bazaar, 4 km away from Phewa Lake, is a traditional bazaar and a colorful gathering place for an ethnically diverse group of traders. The temples and monuments bear a close resemblance to the Newari architecture of the Kathmandu Valley. The old bazaar is also home to one of Pokhara’s most important shrines, the Bindhyabasini Mandir, a white dome-like structure atop a hill.

Nepal Hydroelectric Potential

2013-08-03T09:21:00.003-07:00

Nepal Hydroelectric Potential

Nepali hydroelectric potential is conservatively estimated at 83,000 megawatts…. Enough to secure future economic growth for itself and its neighbors, carbon free, for the next 500 years.

Uniquely situated with the worlds steepest mountains and some of the world’s heaviest rainfall, the Republic of Nepal possesses an unparalleled hydropower generation potential. The perennial attributes of Nepali rivers and the steep decline in height from mount Everest to the north Indian plain provide ideal conditions for the development of some of the world’s largest hydroelectric projects in Nepal. The most often published figures relating to Nepali hydroelectric potential is approximately 83,000 MW, Yet currently has just 600 MW of installed hydropower capacity, leaving 99% of this resource untapped. Sandwiched between the two most most rapidly expanding yet energy-starved economies on earth, this is a time like no other for Nepal hydropower investments.

After the peaceful settlement of internal civil conflicts, the elected government of Nepal fixed a goal of developing 10,000 MW of hydroelectricity in 10 years. To facilitate this, it overhauled some of the existing rules and regulations. Due to the large number of bidders who were awarded contracts and then “sat” on them for decades without beginning work, the license fees went up,the validity of each survey license grew shorter, projects capable of less than 50 MW of energy production were excempted from environmental review, to speed growth of small, domestically financed “microdams”

The present government has more than doubled the initial goal, to over 25,000 MW in the next two decades. This, along with favorable tax status and a speedier approval process makes today a very exciting time for individuals and organizations planning in participating in Nepal hydropower investments.

Development of this resource is additionally of crucial value for the overall development of the country. The enhanced electricity exports, to say nothing of plentiful domestic supply, could propel Nepal from one of the most backward countries in the region to a local powerhouse, economically, financially, and, well, literally!

Nepal is a Himalayan country possessing abundant fast-flowing rivers snaking through constricted valleys which could easily yield the potential estimate of 83,000 megawatts of hydroelectricity. However, this begs the question… where will all this energy go?

With India starved of energy and China short of installed capacity, it need not go far.

Nepali hydroelectric potential is conservatively estimated at 83,000 megawatts…. Enough to secure future economic growth for itself and its neighbors, carbon free, for the next 500 years. - See more at: http://nepal-hydropower-investments.com/the-saudi-arabia-of-hydropower/#sthash.JbPyIAlp.dpuf

Nepal Hydroelectric Potential

epali hydroelectric potential is conservatively estimated at 83,000 megawatts…. Enough to secure future economic growth for itself and its neighbors, carbon free, for the next 500 years.

Uniquely situated with the worlds steepest mountains and some of the world’s heaviest rainfall, the Republic of Nepal possesses an unparalleled hydropower generation potential. The perennial attributes of Nepali rivers and the steep decline in height from mount Everest to the north Indian plain provide ideal conditions for the development of some of the world’s largest hydroelectric projects in Nepal. The most often published figures relating to Nepali hydroelectric potential is approximately 83,000 MW, Yet currently has just 600 MW of installed hydropower capacity, leaving 99% of this resource untapped. Sandwiched between the two most most rapidly expanding yet energy-starved economies on earth, this is a time like no other for Nepal hydropower investments.
After the peaceful settlement of internal civil conflicts, the elected government of Nepal fixed a goal of developing 10,000 MW of hydroelectricity in 10 years. To facilitate this, it overhauled some of the existing rules and regulations. Due to the large number of bidders who were awarded contracts and then “sat” on them for decades without beginning work, the license fees went up,the validity of each survey license grew shorter, projects capable of less than 50 MW of energy production were excempted from environmental review, to speed growth of small, domestically financed “microdams”
The present government has more than doubled the initial goal, to over 25,000 MW in the next two decades. This, along with favorable tax status and a speedier approval process makes today a very exciting time for individuals and organizations planning in participating in Nepal hydropower investments.
Development of this resource is additionally of crucial value for the overall development of the country. The enhanced electricity exports, to say nothing of plentiful domestic supply, could propel Nepal from one of the most backward countries in the region to a local powerhouse, economically, financially, and, well, literally!
Nepal is a Himalayan country possessing abundant fast-flowing rivers snaking through constricted valleys which could easily yield the potential estimate of 83,000 megawatts of hydroelectricity. However, this begs the question… where will all this energy go?
- See more at: http://nepal-hydropower-investments.com/the-saudi-arabia-of-hydropower/#sthash.JbPyIAlp.dpuf

Nepal Hydroelectric Potential

Activities in Kathmandu

2013-06-01T16:22:00.000-07:00

Strengthening literary bonds

Kathmandu: With an objective to enhance mutual understanding and friendly relations between academicians, writers, poets, scholars and intellectuals of Nepal and India as well as between these two countries, an effort has been initiated by India’s Sahitya Akedemi and Nepal Academy.

As per the press release issued on February 2, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed bu the Vice President of Sahitya Akademi, Vishwanath Prasad Tiwari and Vice Chancellor of Nepal Academy, Ganga Prasad Uprety at Nepal Academy, Kamaladi. The relationship between the countries has been amicable since ages and as per the MOU, this relationship will be enhanced through exchanges of delegations related to various literary and cultural issues, and translation of publication and literature on a reciprocal basis. The MOU has five articles with different clauses which talk about programmes, activities, execution of those programmes and agreement itself.

According to the Article II of MOU, their programmes include – to translate and publish books on language, literature, culture, philosophy and social sciences of both the countries and to organize seminars and symposium on language, literature, culture, social science etc at least once by two years. The article also mentions that these two organizations will carry exchange programmes for enhancing the relationship between the intellectuals and organizations related to language, literature and culture. As per the MOU, they will arrange for visits of intellectuals and academicians related to language, literature, culture, philosophy and social science of both the countries and promote creative literary works.

The other article talk about making the relations of two countries better as well as scholars, laureates and intellectuals.

Monica on stands

Kathmandu: A story of a billionaire’s daughter – her style, challenges, and her pursuit of some well-deserved come back. An anecdote of a sophisticated girl who synthesizes highs and lows of life,” describes the press release issued by Kathalaya Publication about MONICA – pieces of perfect, a novel by Shiwani Neupane. The novel was launched on February 2 at Hotel De L’ Annapurna which was done by the dynamic duo Madan Krishna Shrestha and Hari Bansha Acharya.

Neupane pursued her Bachelor’s degree from Ithaca College, US and MONICA is her debut novel. Although this is her first work, she has gathered numerous compliments. About the book Prabhat Rimal said, “Different from what I have read in the past. Reading through the lines, I did not get any feeling lines, I did not get any feeling that it has been written by a first timer. A suggested read for all youngsters not only from the point of crisp language and fashion but also as an inspiration to get going after a rough ride……

Artist Chirag Bangdel stated, “It is wonderful to see a book that is well crafted to suit the taste of our young readers.”

culture

2013-05-28T23:06:00.000-07:00

Epitome of creativity

Kathmandu: Seven headed magnificent Naga sculptured separately on six feet long wood panel, titled ‘Flying Nagas 2 (Diptych)’can capture anyone’s attention. You will observe that this art work shows the current degrading condition of the environment. Moreover, interesting use of copper, plastics bags and mineral particles are evident.

This piece is just one part of majestic sculptures and paintings called ‘The Prakriti Project: Eternal vision contemporary. Forms’ is being exhibited at Siddhartha Art Gallery, Baber Mahal Revisited, from February 9.

The exhibition is a joint venture of two artists-Rabindra Shakya, master of Newari Repousse , his student American artist Maureen Drdak, their work as individual artists and the interface of their traditions are showcased. In the ground floor of the gallery, Shakya’s grand and majestic sculptures using copper reposes are displayed while on the first floor Drdak’s Prakriti project is hung.

Prakriti project represents the first sunthesis of contemporary painting and metal art of reposes, a technique where sheet metal is hammered from both sides to produce a three-dimensional bas-relief (a sculpture technique).

The works on exhibition are the result of Drdak’s creative thesis where she has used traditional Newari reposes technique to create contemporary expresforms, mixing them within the paint surface.

About the meeting and working with Drdak, Shakya shares, “Two years back she visited to our workshop and learned the traditional Newari reposes techniques and now her works are displayed where her master piece was completed at our workshop.”

Elaborating further about her work, she explains, “The subject of these works is Naga-the protector serpent deity of Nepal which is associated with an environmental health. I symbolically tried to give the message on environmental degradation and global warming, a particularly acute problem of the world.” ”Naga represents water” she says making all the water bodies in Nepal synonymous to Naga. However, it is in a dire situation, thus she chose Naga for her project.

In the exhibition, Shakya’s sculptures titled Swoyambhu stupa, Hey Bajra Mandala, Dragan, colossal Buddha Head and more could be seen. Shakya has been practicing this form of art since his childhood.

According to Shakya his favorite from the collection is colossal Buddha Head where he explains, “As the art piece is huge, one needs to be very cautions while working on the copper sheet especially when working on features of the face. And like in other work, it cannot be divided in separate pieces. This makes it time consuming to complete.” No wonder all the hard work and intricate details has taken a form of priceless art.

Noh performance in town

Kathmandu: When three of the audiences were invited on the stage and were asked to put on the Noh mask, Kailash Hall of The Shanker Hotel, Lazimpat was filled with laughter. These traditional Japanese masks that expressed different human emotions made the audience look funny.

It was one of the interesting moments at Noh performance, a form of Japanese classical musical drama per by Japanese group Tsurukameza: Experience Japanese Culture on February 11. Organized by the Embassy of Japan, the event aimed at the promotion of Japan, its traditional and contemporary cultures in Nepal.

In the event, Kunio Takahashi, Ambassador of Japan, informed, “Noh is one of a major forms of Japanese classical musical drama started at the middle of the 14^th century which is passed down from generation to generation retaining its basic form even today.”

Before the performance, the audiences were informed on various aspects of Noh performance, Japan theatres and their architecture, costume, masks etc through a presentation.

After the presentation, nine artistes from Tsurukameza troupe displayed a lively performance. They danced in a slow action with subtle movement of hands and leg. Music produced by traditional Japanese instruments accompanied the dance.

One of the Noh performers, Tanaka Shigeyasu shared, “I am so happy to get good response from Nepal and we had fun performing here.” All the performers at the event were in their 60s.” This is our second phase of life and to spend our life in a meaningful way we are into Noh performance. Also we are helping to preserve and promote our traditional culture,” another performer Katsu Masa Shige informed.

The photographs of people from the Japan who had survived the disastrous Tsunami of 2011 were also exhibited in the event.

About the reason for organizing the event, Takahashi shared, “Today’s event is so promote the understanding of Japan from both the traditional and modern aspect and also to strengthen the cultural ties between the people of Nepal and Japan. It ultimately helps expansion of every-growing friendly and cooperative relations between us.”

Complete art

2013-05-28T02:28:00.000-07:00

A complete art place

Four hours and eight forms of art to witness! What a day it was on February 24 when Yala Maya Kendra, Patan became a platform where drama, music, dance, fine art, photography, documentary, television programmes and litereature were showcased. Organized by the Danish Center for Culture and Development (DCCD), the event, ‘Nepali Danish Culture Showcase displayed eight different projects carried out with the support of the Embassy of Denmark.

“We are focused to show the different cultural projects that are being conducted with the Embassy of Denmark, “event coordinator Shrijana Singh Yonjan said.

And different projects, be it by the Embassy of Denmark or in partnership were showcased on the stage and in different stails.

On stage, Lyrical Dances performed a contemporary dance Pancha Buddha and Nepal Music Educators Society entertained the audience with folk numbers like Resham Phiritri in their style. And Mandala Family Theatre staged a family drama, Curly Hair which was about the relationship of humans and nature. While project Radio Katha’s award ceremony took place for the top stories.

As per actor Dayahang Rai of Mandala Family Theatre, the support from the Embassy means “Supporting their creations”. He added, “The event is about demonstration of eight concepts and one can’t do without each other.”

At different corners of the venue were various artworks showcased. Varieties of works from installation art to etching were presented at the stall of Lasanaa Live Art Hub. If that was about art, documentaries like Synergy of Women and Fenced out by Indigenous Film Archive and television programmes of Todays Youth Asia were being screened at another.

Moreover, children series Maya and Mac was being screened at one stall while photo stories of the exhibition. “The Constant Change’ by Photo Circle was showcased too.

“It is a complete art place.” Artist Saurganga Darshandhari with Lasanaa Live Art Hub shared about the event informing that they have been provided a good platform by the different Danish projects that have been designed for children as well as adults.

Petals of Life

Artist Neera Joshi has used flower as an allegory to reflect changes in the life cycle of human beings

Once again Neera Joshi Pradhan, the botanical artist, has come forth with her series of paintings based on her professed fascination for flower petals. This time this artist has explored the soul of flowers on canvasses in the painting exhibition called ‘Placid Nuances’ that opened at the Park Gallery, Pulchowk on February 24.

Pradhan, known for accurate portrayal of botanical subjects, has painted petals to depict the “factual structure of an organic world”. Showcasing different kinds of changes in petals, the artist has used flower as an allegory to reflect the changes in the life cycle of human beings.

And she is quite successful in reflecting this theme with different hues. In one of her works, she has painted the petals of an orchid – in pink – these petals are full of life where you can see the stamen protruding between the petals in dark and light shades of pink. But there is another painting that has made use of white and black colour only. Looking at this painting you will draw the image of white petals with black strands. Referring to this one, the artist expresses, “Human life is also like these flowers. At some point it is colourful, but there is a time when the colour fades leaving behind those strands.”

Referring to all her paintings hanging in the ground and first floors of the gallery, Joshi further comments, “This series best describes time, moment and space born from organic world of elements that cannot be seen visibly. Absorption and assimilation of these elements are a living being’s truth phenomenon and the series reflects the same phenomenon. “The paintings that are mostly watercolour on canvas and acrylic on canvas have made the maximum use of yellow, red and orange colour. “These are my favorite colours and unconsciously I end up creating my artworks with those colours,” mentions the artist who “finds freedom in this style of painting as compared to botanical painting in which she has to create works being restricted in certain limitations.”

Sun Enters Gemini

2013-05-23T00:02:00.001-07:00

What romantic adventures are in store for you?

On May 20, the Sun enters Gemini, joining curious Mercury and romantic Venus in the sign of The Twins. If you’re looking to win someone’s heart, you’ll need to go through their mind now.

Gemini is a sign of fun, flirty banter. Witty exchanges and cheeky suggestions help set the mood, and trivia nights or comedy events are perfect date spots. The downside of love under the Sun in Gemini is that everyone is in two minds about what they really want. It’s a very this-or-that vibe, where one moment you think you know what you want, and the next minute something different grabs your attention.

Have fun in love while the Sun and Gemini do their dance, but keep your options open. Try new things but don’t make long-term plans. Conversation is encouraged, as curiosity is aroused. If you want to know something particular about someone special -- ask! Attention is flattering and a great way to deepen your connection.

Social events are supported too. If you’re single, a girls-night-out is a great way to meet someone new. Already attached? Plan a night out with your friends and your man -- that way, everyone can get to know each other better.

Most of all, with the Sun in Gemini, keep love light and romance playful. Stand out dates include:

June 2: Sun-Uranus. Unexpected connections are romantic. Be spontaneous, or surprise your loved one.

June 20: Sun-Jupiter. Holiday romances or falling for an exotic foreigner are possible. Dinner at a high-end restaurant helps broaden your horizons.

Flower power

2012-07-09T08:21:00.000-07:00

Flower power

What’s your sign? Are you a passionate Scorpio, a practical Taurus or an incurably romantic Cancer? Which zodiac sign your birthday lands under may not rule your destiny, but it may offer a peek inside your floral astrology. So next time you’re debating whether to send a bunch of bold red tulips, fun-loving sunflowers or fragrant lilies, look to the stars for a little inspiration. Find out what makes them tick and what flower arrangement is likely to tickle their fancy – with astrology flower guide.

For Aries: Match the Aries enthusiasm and zeal with flowers the colour of passion (romantic or otherwise)- like an anything-but-demure red tulip flower bouquet. Dazzling and full of energy, it’ll appeal t their love of bold gestures and their appreciation for the slightly unexpected.

For Taurus: Cater to the Taurus’ appreciation for nature’s exquisite beauty with flowers that appeal to their full range of senses-like a flower bouquet showcasing majestic lilies. Their rich symbolism will appeal to the Taurus’ respect for history, and the lily’s dramatic form and fragrant perfume will indulge their romantic, sensual side.

For Gemini: Surprise a Gemini with a flower bouquet filled with roses- a flower that symbolizes the essence of their zodiac sing: Love and companionship. With the ability to convey a wide range of messages and sentiments depending on their colour, roses are a perfect match for this birth sign’s multi-dimensional (twin) sides, from friendship to passion, quiet sophistication to a bright burst of fun.

For cancer: Let these generous spirits know how much you appreciate their compassion and thoughtfulness with a flower arrangement filled with delphinium – aptly named for their dolphin-shaped flowers (an appropriate match for this water sign). With symbolism tied to an open heart, ardent attachment and a feeling of lightness and levity, delphinium will appeal to the Cancer’s sensitivity and romanticism.

For Leo: Choose a floral arrangement for Leos that matches this fire sign’s big hearted personality-like a glower bouquet filled with attention-grabbing sunflowers. With grand proportions, open faces and symbolism, rooted in happiness and warmth, sunflowers capture the Leo’s confidence and strength as well as their unfussy, loving spirit.

For Virgo: Surprise this other-wise practical, intellectual and serious earth sign with flower arrangements that provokes their more light-hearted side. Daisy-like asters, with their wildflower beauty, star-shaped flowers and lush texture- not to mention their legendary enchanted qualities-will incite a Virgo’s imagination and coax their fun-loving side.

For Libra: With their strong wooden stems and lacey, star shaped pom-poms, hydrangeas personify the balance of opposites – a fitting choice for Libras. Symbolizing heartfelt sincerity and the giver’s gratefulness for a recipient understands nature; a hydrangea flower arrangement also captures the Libra’s thoughtful and gentle disposition.

For Scorpio: Indulge the sensual and passionate Scorpio with a floral bouquet of lush red peonies. With their luxuriously full shape and bold, passionate red colour, these flowers embody both a sense of romance (a complement to the Scorpio’s sensitivity) and power. Also regarded an as omen of good fortune and prosperity, they are a fitting match for the Scorpio’s fierce potential.

For Sagittarius: Capture the Sagittarian’s multi-dimensional personality with carnations – an equally multidimensional flower. Associated with a myriad of symbolism – from to love to fascination, distinction to luck (when white), carnations aptly reflect this fire sign’s passionate nature, hunger for adventure, intellect and good fortune. Moreover as a flower known for it’s inherently long-lasting nature carnations personify the Sagittarian’s strength and endurance.

For Capricorn: The Capricorn’s responsible, dependable personality makes them ideal caretakers for a long—lasting plant-and African violets, with their bright colourful flowers and soft, velvety petals-delivery an added indulgence. Symbolizing faithfulness – a trait in keeping with the Capricorn’s stable nature – with just a hint of luxuriousness and sensuality, the African violet may just be the Capricorn’s perfect match.

For Aquarius: With its quiet beauty, artful form and inherent grace, orchids are a perfect complement to the Aquarian’s spiritual and intuitive characteristics. Moreover with symbolism tied to love, beauty and strength, orchids will resonate with this birth sign’s sense of loyalty. Choose pink orchids, representing pure affection, to fuel their romantic streak or surprise them with cattleya orchids to convey mature charm.

For Pisces: Send a Pisces flower that convey your great admiration and appreciation, while still keeping in mind that their personality can be uncomfortable with grand gestures of affection or a flower arrangement that fells too bold or showy. Alstroemeria, with their delicate blossoms and miniature lily-like appearance capture just the right mix of generous beauty and quiet splendor.

Tourism year & ancient theaters of Nepal

2012-07-06T18:41:00.000-07:00

Nepal investment Year (NIY) 2012Where’s the bright lining?

Some ancient Theaters

Over time the concept of theater in Nepal has been slowly refined. From the medieval ages to the 18th century, rulers in the country generally regarded the theater as being an important avenue of activity because it symbolized the spirit of the community and because performances could portray powerful messages to those who were watching. Even today, the theater is considered to have great cultural significance. During the mid 1800s, the Rana family decided it was time to create different theatrical troupes and to create theater houses where they could perform for the royal court. This merging of traditional theater and western theatrical traditions resulted in more organized and lavish theatrical productions. In the early 1900s Balakrishna Sama decided that it was time to break down the walls and allow the common public to enjoy these performances too.

Today there are not many Nepali theaters but it is worth attending a production or two if you can. You might want to consider the Aarohan Theater Group and the Gurukul School of Theater. Theater in Nepal has gradually branched out into three very different theatrical styles and you should be sure which is which before booking your tickets. The traditional dance-dramas and ritual blends are very colorful and enjoy an air of festivity, while the masked performances are more stirring and imaginative. Western influences are very evident in both these forms of theater. The thirds style is that of folk theater which is distinctive from region to region and which has changed very little over the centuries. Regardless of which form of theater you enjoy, your attendance will be not only educational and enjoyable but will support the local acting fraternity. These people are working hard to use theater as a medium of education and inspiration and are looking for ways to encourage more youths to take an interest in this age-old form of self-expression.

Aarohan Theatre Group - Entertaining and Educational

Gurukul School of Theatre - Unique Education

Nepal Tourism Year (NTY) 2012 is over, and two questions are raised: how successful was the year in bringing in more tourists and what are its consequences in terms of employment and income generation? The number of tourists coming by air and surface to Nepal in 2011 is not encouraging when compared to the previous years. The annual average growth rate was 2percent of the number of tourists who came to Nepal during 2000-2011, which is nearly stagnant. It indicates that NTY 2011 in aggregate was a failure. The answer to the second question is a subject fit for conducting a study for investigation.

Big talks are on about the Nepal Investment Year (NTY) 2012. The government has proclaimed it with a view to doubling the foreign Direct Investment (FDI), which of course, seems quite ambitious. It has also formed the investment board to deal with a the domestic as well as foreign private investment. Can this board be successful in attracting planned as well as desired level of investment?

No doubt, there are a number of unutilized economic sectors, as Nepal is rich in natural resources. These resources are waiting for proper investment to rap the potential. Nepal can be a potential country to invest in because of its cheap labor and raw materials. However, there is a need to identify sectors which are most preferable and could cater of serve national, regional and international interests and attract both public and private investment.

The potential sector for domestic as well as foreign investment could be agricultures, particularly food processing medicine manufacturing industries for which Nepal’s Himalayas provides adequate herbs, hydro-power for which its rivers provide a potentiality of 40 GW of power, tourism industry for which Nepal has bounty of natural attractions, and the cement industry for which Nepal possesses a huge stock of Limestone. All these potential sectors have not yet been utilized properly. They are waiting for policies conducive to attract adequate investment for their proper utilization.

Moreover, Nepal is an investment friendly country. Investors have ample opportunities to foster and promote companies and earn reasonable profit by producing goods and services with their investment for which a number of reasons can be put in place. First, Nepal has abundant human resources. Companies have an opportunity to employ cheap labor varying from unskilled to highly skilled.

Second, as described above, there are a number of untapped potential sectors which are waiting for proper action for their utilization. Thirds, there is a huge marker within and across the country for the products produced form these potential sectors.

Fourth, the resources available for investment would be channelized to the productive sector, which as per the past trend had been channeled to unproductive sectors.

But, why is Nepal unable to mobilized capital both domestic and foreign where it has ample potential sectors to invest in? The answer to this question is straight forward.

The domestic investments are limited. Foreign investment needs a lot of prerequisites which Nepal is unable to meet. Forest, historical evidences reveal that Nepal has not been able to get a leader with full of vision, who is unselfish, bold, consistent, popular and patriotic. As a result, political instability has become a major issue which puts good governance at threat. Since the past several years, Nepal is plagued with corruption, fraud, inequality, insecurity and many more anomalies because of the absence of good governance.

Second, the behavior of political parties to protest any action of the government is to undertake strikes, lockouts, Bandhs, threats, abduction and even killing. This puts the general people, and more strictly business people in fear and insecurity. In such a situation, investors, whether they are domestic or foreign feel insecure to invest their scarce resources.

Thirds, trade unions put demands in a way that any organization is unable to meet. Many industries in Nepal were closed down due to the labor unrest. Fourth, electricity is the major factor of production. To undertake any sort of business, electricity is the first and foremost prerequisite. Instead, Nepal faces short ages of electricity for the past several years. Even today, there is no plan and program to increase the supply to meet the growing demand for electricity. Fifth policy and programs of the government are not investment friendly. If there are any, they are not in action due to red tape. Sixth, ongoing projects are under threat because of the dispute with the local people. Finally there is no consensus, not only within the party concerned, but also among the parties associated with both the foreign and domestic investments.

These all put the investors in a difficult situation. Investors are not interested to invest in Nepal as it is unable to provide minimum requirements.

The government’s announcement of NTY with the goal of doubling the FDI will remain a failure if everything else remains the same. Instead, the expenditure for the investment board may exceed the limit for seminars, workshops, foreign visits, and so on.

When one considers a place as seemingly remote as Nepal, you would hardly imagine that it has a long history of theater. To most westerners the concept of theater goes hand in hand with ornate buildings and large, complex stages. And yet, Nepal has been involved in theater in one form or another for well over two millenniums. Unlike with western theater, theatrical performances have permeated many different aspects of every day life in Nepal. Members of both the Hindu and Buddhist faiths have employed different theatrical practices in their culture and religious rites for thousands of years.

The Aarohan Theatre Group has been in existence for more than twenty years, being established in the year 1982. It is known as a theatre group that embraces all the cultures, religions and rituals of Nepal, trying to empower the communities and even educate them on important events and topics that influences their daily lives. Aarohan works for the people of Nepal, and in the year 2002, the Gurukul School of Theatre was established.

Through the years, the Aarohon Theatre Group has gained the confidence and the respect of the community. Many of their stage performances have been influenced by religions such as Hinduism and Buddhism. Nepali folklore and the landscapes of Nepal also play an important role in their productions. Aarohon is dedicated to perform screenplays that have been written by local Nepali’s, such as Bijaya Malla, Ashesh Malla and Govinda Bahadur Gothale. International plays, including "The Respectable Prostitute" by Jean Paul Satre, "The Elder Son" by Alexandre Vampilov and "The Just and the Outsider" by Camus, were altered to project and relate to everyday Nepali life and become a play the public can relate to.

Drama and theatre has also been taken to the streets of Nepal, through the creation of street theatre. It has come a vital tool in the education of the public on important issues such as HIV/Aids, different cultures, democracy, welfare, the importance of sanitation, forestry, conservation, concerns of environmental issues and even in regard to elections. Street theatre has become an easy way to communicate with the public and educate them on their country in a language they can understand. Bringing information and awareness to rural communities empowers them and assists them in making the necessary changes to their lifestyles. It also encourages the communities to establish their own theatre groups, to voice their concerns and to entertain the crowds.The Aarohan Theatre Group has also produced a few television series for Nepal Television networks and has been involved in the making of fifteen films, for television audiences. Their voices can be heard coming across the radio waves in the form of radio dramas. The Aarohan Theater Group hosts workshops and takes part in international festivals, where they have won many awards. Their dedication to the people of Nepal and the belief in the work that they are doing ensures that they remain the best and most popular theatre company in Nepal.

The Gurukul School of Theatre was established by the Aarohan Theatre Group in the year 2002. Gurukul originates from an old traditional way of education. Students or scholars that attended the Gurukul would live on the premises, be educated by the guru and take care of the school. They would be responsible for the cleaning, cooking, taking care of the guru and collecting items that were needed for the daily running of the school. Of course, there were no classrooms or a formal educational system.

To combine this ancient tradition with modern times, the Gurukul School of Theatre offers courses, lectures and theatre related classes. But also offers more unusual courses such as martial arts. Believing in the Gurukul form of teaching, educating students on life and personal hygiene, students are in charge of managing and supervision of their dorms, class rooms and school grounds. This prepares them for life in general, with cleaning, cooking and other responsibilities, to give them confidence and broaden their perspective.

The residential course, that is a two-year program, includes subjects such as acting, dramatic literature, music, direction, creative writing and theatre techniques. Courses such as martial arts, dance, yoga and mime, fall under the Physical Preparation course. The school also offers painting classes and mask classes in the Visual Arts division. "Theatre as Politics" covers subjects such as street theatre, historical facts and social studies. Personal growth and skills are also offered to the students to prepare them for their futures. By the time a student leaves the Gurukul School of Theatre, they are able to direct plays, write their own plays, have complete knowledge in lighting, make-up, sound and stage props, be confident in speech and even improvisation.

Students of the Gurukul School of Theatre will be ready to enter the world of theatre and be able to make a difference in the lives of so many, including their own. The school teaches students how to entertain and how to educate. Life skills that are taught here are also invaluable and plays its part is creating an educated and skilled Nepali community.

Market in Nepal

2012-07-05T10:02:00.001-07:00

Emerging markets in 2012: Time for a fall?

Emerging markets have performed over par in the last seven years. They have outperformed advanced industrialized countries in terms of economic growth among others. In recent times, many countries have received better assessment by rating agencies than some of their more affluent counterparts. But the bright outlook for these nations has suddenly turned into a grim outlook, as many economists have opined at a correction in 2012, triggered by a new wave of ‘risk off’ behavior among investors. Many questions involving emerging nations will be answered in time. Will China experience a hard landing? Will the sover-deign-debt woes of the European periphery spread to its neighbors such as Turkey in a new crisis? The World Bank has now down-graded economic forecasts for developing countries in2012, which is well below the rapid 2012 growth rate of 7.5 percent. Reflecting a sharp slowdown in the latter half of the year in India, South Asia is coming off of a torrid six years, including 9.1 percent growth in 2010. Regional growth is projected to ease further to 5.8 percent in 2012.But will the economic slowdown turn to a financial crisis? The empirical argument is just historically based numerology: an emerging market crisis seems to come in 15-years cycles. The international debt crisis surfaced in Mexico in mid-1982 and then spread to the rest of Latin America and beyond. The East Asian crisis erupted 15 years later, in Thailand in mid-1997, and then spread to the rest of the region and beyond. If we expect history to repeat itself, we are now another 15 years down the road. So is 2012 time for the third round?The second cycle of seven years was the period of record capital inflow to emerging markets from 1990 to 1996. Following the 1997 ‘sudden stop’ in East Asia came seven years of capital drought. The third cycle of inflows, often identified as a carry trade, came in 2004 to 20011 and persisted through the global financial chaos. If history repeats itself, it is now time for a third sudden stop of capital flow to emerging markets.If emerging markets do crash in 2012, remember where you heard it first!

Ill intention over RTI

Havoc was created by the government when it irrationally classified information and now severe debate about the motive of the government has surfaced. Does the government want to suppress the freedom of speech and the press by preventing free flow of information? The Baburam Bhattarai led government may not have directed the Classification Committee headed by Chief Secretary Madhav Prasad Ghimire to take such unconstitutional steps but since it is the government’s committee it is natural to blame the current government for trying to kill the right to information.The right to information (RTI) is the most important right of the people, based on which other freedoms are possible in democracy. Good governance is only possible where there is transparency and if this right is plugged, people will face bad governance and autocracy as well. The right to information was not recognized as a very important right in constitutions of various countries promulgated in the late 19^th century. With development and the wave of democracy, the freedom of speech and expression and freedom of the press have got its due importance in the 20^th century.

The government committee recommended 140 types of information that cannot be made public and this not only undermines the rights of the public but the decision of the government also violates Article 27 of the Interim Constitution and Section 3(3) of the Right to Information Act, 2007. As per recommendation, information on patent rights, innovative formula, and secrets of cultural innovation will be kept secret for 30 years, Information for maps and specifications of vital installation like airports, radio and TV stations and the storage of petroleum products has also been kept in the same category to remain confidential for 30 years. Information pertaining to the Ministry of Defense (MOD) has been categorized as confidential and the release of the information has been fixed for 30 years. The correspondence of MOD marked as top secret, secret, confidential and restricted will be judged by the ministry itself regarding sensitivity and security.Matter on sovereignty and intrepidity of the state, harmonious relations of various castes and tribes, contempt of court and defamation and incitement of crimes are the only limitations set forth by the constitution and the RTI Act: henceforth, it would be unconstitutional to impose other restrictions on this right.“Such classification of information is nothing but the autocratic nature of the government and it is intended to create such a situation where there is no transparency and no exchange of public opinion on vital issues related to state affairs, “ Dr Ram Krishna Timalsena, an RTY expert told THT Perspectives. “Since it is intended to impose autocracy, it is facing a storm of criticism, “Timalsena added.

HR metrics and analytics

Human resources (HR) metrics and HR analytics have become a hot topic in organizations, especially after the series of economic shocks. Interest is rising, and organizations are learning more about metrics and analytics and their use to improve organizational effectiveness. The interest is widely observed in industries and organizations where HR function has been recognized to have strategic and goal oriented value. HR analytics improve the value of your source data, allowing you to create a more complete picture of your HR, giving your executive team the critical information necessary to make decisions that drive business success. HR analytics allow you to combine and compare raw HR data, present it graphically to see historical trends and run ‘what-if’ scenarios. Modeling capabilities will help everyone in the organization – across all departments and offices – visualize how the movement of talent impacts hiring decisions, cost models, career-path initiatives, succession plans, and risk management. Managers, in turn, can use this information to create targeted business initiatives placing the right levels of talents in position to support them. And all of this is based on solid empirical evidence, not simply a ‘gut feeling’. By going beyond simple HR statistics to include robust corporate information such as financial indicators and survey data, managers can gain deeper insight into how the organization is doing as a whole and can establish clear and their direct business result. HR analytics provide the basis for specific actions plans and HR investments that address gaps or inefficiencies in an organization’s talent mix that need to be overcome in order to drive better business outcomes. For example, from a succession planning point-of-view, HR analytics can view how many of your employees are nearing retirement status and how filling those upcoming vacancies and the resulting changes in staffing levels and positions will affect pay and performance throughout the organization. Simply put, success of failure of goal execution hinges on your HR’s effectiveness in supporting the organization’s mission, vision and goals. Business gain a competitive edge by using HR analytics to focus on optimizing the use of their human capital and ensuring that the human capital strategy is aligned with business strategy is aligned with business strategy. At the end of the day, HR analytics lets you analyses data to gain insight so you can make better decisions and take appropriate staffing levels to drive greater business success. HR metrics and analytics activities provide no return on the organization’s investment unless managers make different and effective decisions as a result of the information provided by metrics and analytics reports. Therefore, focusing on development of HR metrics analytics around organizationally important problems and opportunities is likely to increase the possibility of significant returns. Components of continued evolution of metrics and analytics capabilities are driven by increased use of both push and pull reporting systems, more extensive use of predictive analytics and operational experiments, and the development of organizational expertise in metrics and analytics capabilities. As these skills mature, organizations will be able to move beyond simple analyses of HR efficiency metrics to a greater emphasis on operational effectiveness and organizational realignment analyses. Businesses Gain a Competitive Edge By Using These Tools to Focus on Optimizing The Use of Their Human Capital

Developing business with web connection

According to Manoj Chandi Shrestha, founder of housingnepal.com, choosing a career that one is passionate about ensures never getting tired of the job. Operating the web portal which addresses the real estate market concept and something that challenged him as a professional. As per shrestha, his three year tenure in London made him realize the importance if internet as an effective marketing medium. “Everything was facilitated by internet there, so I decided to duplicate the concept here,” he says, adding that the freedom to work for one’s own venture is exciting. Before initiating his own business, he worked at Nepal Investment Bank and NIC bank for two years. “The skills I acquired working at the banks included managing a business, maintaining public relations and handling diverse customers. This added to my confidence and aided me while commencing my own business,” adds Shrestha, who is a computer engineer by profession. Shrestha informs that it took him more than two years to make the web portal fully functional in 2010. Since there were already two online sites dedicated to the real estate sector prior to the launch of his venture, he took every possible step to stand out from the rest. “our competitive advantage is that we have added individual sellers who want to sell their intangible assets, apart from apartments and houses by real estate developers.” Explains Shrestha, adding that the site also lists all developers, upcoming projects, latest real estate article, news and events, real estate videos and interior designer firms, among others. Recently, housingnepal.com in collaboration with a number of banks launched home loan application for customers. It also offers counseling for interested buyers. Besides people living in Nepal, Nepali diaspora and Non-Resident Nepalese (NRNS) are also regular visitors of this site. According to shrestha, 40 percent of the hits are from Nepal whereas the rest are from abroad. The most inquiries are from the UK, Australia and Quatar, “Compared to the last few years, the real estate market looks positive due to flexible policies, rules and regulations. Similarly, the provision of allowing NRNS to buy apartments has increased out visitors,” says Shrestha. “Seeking opportunities in every sector, tapping the market accordingly and doing something out of the box has upped our business,” says Shrestha, stressing that today apart from updating news, they are also flooded with proposals by individual developers to create their websites. However, his business venture does not end with housingnepal.com. Shrestha is also the founder of educatenepal.com and tourismthamel.com, which he claims to be one-stop solutions for students and tourists, “I have a long way to go and there is room for improvement,” says Shrestha, who was awarded the best MBA student in London Metropolitan University in 2005. With an investment of Rs 500,000, housingnepal.com currently employs five staffs. Shrestha states that online marketing is completely different form traditional marketing and to ace this sector, innovation and updating the business according to the latest technology advancement is the key. He plans to operate two more sites – financialnepal.com and tourismkathmandu.com. According to him, people can generate income in Nepal only if they have patience and dedication.” My friends are working abroad but the satisfaction I get is incomparable, since they are treated as second class citizens there,” adds Shrestha.

Sights in Nepal

2012-06-30T22:48:00.002-07:00

Some important sights in Nepal

There are plenty of great sights in Nepal just waiting to be discovered. As you walk the streets of Kathmandu, you will discover artistic and cultural treasures just waiting to be snatched up in a photo or two. To be honest, no photo can adequately justify the extreme beauty of this beautiful country – you simply have to see Nepal's sights for yourself to understand why Nepal is attracting so much attention these days.A plethora of delicate carvings, intricate metal work and brazenly bold art, meshed together by the quiet respectfulness of the people who live here, it's a world away from the hustle and bustle of big city life.When it comes to sightseeing, Kathmandu Valley is at the heart of it all. Not only can you view the beautiful blue peaks of the Himalayas from here, but you can enjoy visiting a few of the seven World Heritage Sites. All seven are man-made wonders which have withstood the ravages of time and provide silent testimony to the skill and intelligence of early man. Some of them are roughly 2500 years old! If you're visiting Nepal, plan to spend a little time at each of these seven wonders. They are: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, the Boudha Nath Stupa, the Pashupati Nath Temple and the Changu Narayan Temple. Each attraction is fairly large and features a variety of great temples, shrines or notable monuments that need to be explored so you should ensure that you have time to do so.Besides the UNESCO World Heritages Sights of Nepal, you might also try visiting the many museums, art galleries and markets. There are a great many temples and shrines worth seeing too. Everywhere you go you will find color, beauty and intelligence – a true mark of the people as well as their artwork. Don't miss out on Nepal's colorful sights! Some important sights that are in Nepal and we hope you are interested are given below. Below sights is mostly fill up with the tourist like you.

Discover the Sheer Beauty of Davis Falls

Patale Chhango or Hell’s Falls, has accumulated many different names over the years. Located near the Pokhara airport, this attraction has become one of the most popular sights in Nepal. Also known as Devi’s Falls, David’s Falls, Devin Falls and Devis Falls, the name might take on different forms, but the sight remains the same. It is an area that is known for its beauty and tranquility, and the legend of the Devi’s Falls adds a touch of mystery and adventure to this sight.Trying to put your finger on the correct version of the legend is like trying to understand which nickname was the original given to Patale Chhango. As with most legends that are connected to sights in Nepal and around the world, the story has been retold so many times, that the correct tale has been lost. One of the versions tells of a trekker or hiker that went by the name of David, Devin, Devi or Davis. The unfortunate hiker was swept away suddenly by the water and carried down into the underground passages and caves that run below the waterfall. The other tells the story of a Mrs Davi, a Swiss tourist in Nepal, who was swimming in the Fewa Lake. The dam unexpectedly started to overflow and Davi’s husband helplessly looked on while the waters swept his wife down the waterfall. This version took place in the year 1961 and the body of Mrs Davi was never recovered.The water that feeds the Devi’s Falls comes from the Fewa (Phewa) Lake, which follows a rocky stream to eventually rush down the waterfall and disappear. This might sound unbelievable, but the passages that run under the ground are connected to the hole below the waterfall. The best times to view this spectacular sight is during the monsoon season when there is a high rainfall and the summer season. During these periods the water runs and plunges over rocks and through gorges, giving visitors a breathtaking show.
The landscape and nature that surrounds the Devi’s Falls is as spectacular as the waterfall and visitors will find many photographic opportunities at this sight. Visitors to the Pokhara region are recommended to take a trip to Patale Chhango to hear the legend of the falls and enjoy a peaceful afternoon near the foaming water.

The Mysterious Mahendra Cave

Visiting a cave when on vacation might sound like a strange attraction, but the Mahendra Cave is one of the sights in Nepal that has more to offer than expected. Located near the city of Pokhara, the cave and surrounding sights are worth the trip. The Mahendra Cave, the Davis Falls and Gupteshwar Mahadev are in close proximity to each other and visitors will be able to explore all the attractions of this area.
In the year 1950, young shepherds stumbled across the Mahendra Cave that was named in honor of King Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev. Locals refer to the cave as the House of Bats (Chamero Odaar) due to this shy species of wildlife that call the cave home. Generally, the Mahendra and other caves in the region are explored with flashlights, but more recently lights have been installed into the cave. The lights have caused great concern amongst conservationists, as some of the bat species that inhabit the caves are very rare. Since the installation, the sightings of bats have declined as the lights clearly disturb the bats, forcing them to relocate. The lack of supervision when tourists and visitors enter the caves is also very disturbing as the constant noise and movement of humans is very stressful to the bats.Over and above being famed for housing bats, the Mahendra Cave is a natural cave that is made from limestone. The entire cave is decorated in spectacular stalagmites and stalactites that shine and glimmer when light is shone on them. Walking through the cave, armed only with a flashlight, is definitely more rewarding than when the cave is lit with artificial light. The stone that is dripping from the roof and covering the cave floor comes alive under the beams of the flashlights and increases the excitement of this dark adventure.As one of the darker sights in Nepal, the Mahendra Cave gives visitors the opportunity to embark on an adventure. There is still much of the cave that has not been explored and gives the cave an atmosphere of awe, when thinking of the mysterious, unknown territory that no man has yet been privileged to see.

Central Zoo in Jawalakhel

The Central Zoo in Jawalakhel was founded in the year 1932. Its founder, Prime Minister Rana, created it essentially as a private zoo, but in 1956 it was finally opened to the public. It was only in the year 1995 that the Central Zoo was handed over to the National Trust for Nature Conservation, and they immediately set about renovating the zoo.

Before handing over control of the zoo, there were many aspects that were not up to standard. The National Trust for Nature Conservation has therefore implemented objectives and plans to develop the Central Zoo and improve the living conditions of the animals. The first change was the visiting hours at the zoo. On Mondays, the zoo remains closed all day giving animal caretakers the much-needed time to tend to the animals, work on the enlargement of cages and the cage environment. Much as changed since the hand-over, but the work has not been completed and will carry on for many more years. The animals that are currently housed at the Central Zoo in Jawalakhel, have also needed time to recover from their previous living conditions, where their cages were left dirty and unattended, they were not receiving the correct or sufficient amounts of food according to their dietary needs and medical care was not the first priority. These days, the animals are carefully monitored and zookeepers are working hard to improve the environment of the enclosures.As conservation around the world has become critical, the staff at the Jawalakhel Central Zoo are working towards transforming the zoo into a complete research and educational facility. This includes a breeding program involving endangered animal species. It is hoped that the zoo will not only become a popular tourist attraction, but be used by scholars and students as an educational medium.There are approximately 900 individual animals housed at the Jawalakhel Central Zoo. Visitors will be able to view various bird species, mammals, fish and reptiles. At present, there are fourteen animals at the zoo that are on the endangered list. Over and above the viewing the animals, visitors will be able enjoy elephant rides, make use of the picnic facilities or use the paddle boats. Children can play safely in the playground, while the adults might prefer a trip to the souvenir shop or restaurant.The Central Zoo in Jawalakhel is an example to zoo’s across the world, that facilities such as these should be monitored closely to prevent the abuse and mistreatment of the animals. Even though dedicated zoo staff are working to improve the zoo and the conditions, it is not close to what is expected of a facility entrusted with precious animals and the bloodlines of the future.

Sandhikharka

Mount Everest is one of the greatest attractions in Nepal, and surrounding this magnificent human challenge, small villages and towns lie scattered across the landscape to provide accommodation and rest to weary travelers and hiking enthusiasts. In the Arghakhanchi District of Nepal, there is a quaint town in the Lumbini Zone, which combines functionality with beauty, to create a wonderful and remote destination, Sandhikharka. Sandhikharka is a significant city in the district, and is located approximately three hundred kilometers outside of Kathmandu.
Sandhikharka does not have a great number of attractions or noteworthy sites to lure visitors, but has an abundance of breathtaking country side to explore that is popular with trekking and hiking enthusiasts. The dense pine forests that embrace the borders of the town are filled with beautiful trails to explore and magnificent wildlife and birds that have made this region their home. Visitors to Sandhikharka will find the town's people to be friendly and helpful and the valley that falls on the Hall line to be as picturesque as a postcard. It is a destination in Nepal that is frequented by travelers due to its astounding beauty.

Explore the tranquil destination of Tansen

Tansen is known for its idyllic weather conditions, and is therefore the perfect trekkingdestination in Nepal. It has an estimated population of 14 000 inhabitants and is 1 400 meters above sea level. The combination of beautiful treks, spectacular views of the Himalayas and Terai plains and the numerous historical sights, makes Tansen a preferred tourist destination.
The people of Tansen are very warm and inviting and are known for their creative abilities. They create the most astonishing pottery and earthenware such as plates, basins and jugs. Metal workers are artists in their own right, as their plates, Hookahs and various utensils are not just used in the homes of the locals but in many of the temples. Coming into town is a very social event for many, as they take time out from finding the right piece of cloth, oil, salts and other purchases to enjoy a relaxing cup of tea. And as a matter of interest, the cloth that is made by Tansen residents is known to be the best in Nepal. The local population is made up of mostly Magar and Newari, which have a very colorful and proud history.
Trekkers can enjoy short treks from Tansen that lead hikers past the Kali Gandaki River or from Pokhara through Dhorpatan. Longer treks include the Annapurna Sanctuary, Jomson and Ghorepani. The dense forests and endless wildlife makes trekking in this region extremely rewarding.Tansen is also a popular destination in Nepal for its marvelous temples and sights. In the Amar Narayan Temple visitors will be fascinated by the detailed and distinctive woodcarvings, but even more surprised by the bat residents that live outside in the woods surrounding the temple. Tansen Durbar was constructed in the year 1927. Patan Durbar is a beautiful palace that is the pride of the town. Visitors are also recommended to take the time to explore the Bhagawati Temple. It is of great religious significance and was built in 1814 by Ujir Singh Thapa. The temple has undergone renovations as the 1934 earthquake in Tansen damaged some of the structure. Other noteworthy sights include Shreenagar Hill, Shitalpati, the Palpa Bhairava Temple, Baggi Dhoka, Amargunj Ganesh and the Ranighat Palace.Visitors to the interesting town of Tansen, with its natural beauty, historical attractions, fascinating locals and spectacular local crafts, will experience a destination filled with adventure and excitement. Tansen is definitely a destination in Nepal that should not be missed.

Tilaurakot

Located in the Kapilvastu District, Lumbini Zone of the Western Region of Nepal, the village of Tilaurakot is most likely best known for being the site of the Tilaurakot ruins. It is believed the ruins are the remains of a stronghold of the Kapilvastu/Shakya Kingdom, established by Siddhartha Guatama Buddha’s father, Suddhodana. Excavations carried out in the year 2000 revealed that the fortress which had once stood there had been of considerable size, having a number of smaller buildings within its walls. A nearby museum displays some of the items discovered, many of which date back as far as the seventh century BC.
Lumbini, the birthplace of Siddhartha Guatama Buddha, is located around 25 kilometers from Tilaurakot. It is however believed that Guatama Buddha, the key figure in Buddhist teachings, was raised in Tilaurakot, making this a very special place for Buddhist pilgrims to visit. The historical and spiritual significance of Tilaurakot is not only important to adherents of the Buddhist faith, but is also of interest to the increasing numbers of tourists who visit this fascinating village in the Western Region of Nepal each year.

Kathmandu Durbar Square - A Major Tourist Attraction

Kathmandu Durbar Square is without a doubt a top attraction for tourists in the Nepali city. This massive complex is home to palaces, temples and courtyards. Visitors to the Durbar Square of Kathmandu will be amazed by the architectural wonders spanning several centuries. This important historical attraction has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and you will certainly want to include a tour of the area in your itinerary.
The majority of the structures built in Kathmandu Durbar Square date back to the 16th and 17th centuries, with some sections from the 12th century. The central feature of the square is the renowned Hanuman Dhoka Palace Complex. The majestic palace was named in honor of the monkey god, Hanuman, and a statue of the unusual deity stands at the main entranceway. The Hanuman Dhoka Palace Complex served as the residence of Nepal's royalty right up to the 1800s. It was also the gathering place of important administrators and numerous ceremonies were hosted here. The Nepali palace itself is a stunning structure with intricately carved wooden panels and windows. Visitors to the palace are welcome to stroll through the Mahendra Museum and the Tribhuvan Memorial Museum located here.
Surrounding the mighty Nepali palace complex are a large number of temples. TheseNepali religious sites were constructed over many years and a number of architectural styles can be seen as you walk around Durbar Square. The oldest temples were built in the late 1500s by Mahendra Malla. These include Taleju Temple, Jagannath, Mahendreswara and Kotilingeswara Mahadev. The Hindu and Jain temple of Taleju is known as the tallest in Durbar Square and is said to have been built in the shape of a yantra under the orders of the goddess Taleju. Jagannath Temple is best-known for the erotic figures which were expertly carved into doors, roof struts and windows.
Standing on the southern side of the Kathmandu Durbar Square is the Kumari Chowk or Kumari Bahal. This is home to Nepal's living goddess, the Raj Kumari. She is a specially chosen girl who is said to be the human incarnation of the head Hindu goddess. If you are fortunate enough you may see her during one of her public appearances.
Another interesting religious site to see in Kathmandu Durbar Square is Kasthamandapa. According to legend this structure was built using wood from a single tree. Originally a community hall, Kasthamandapa eventually became a temple dedicated to Gorakhnath. The Trailokya Mohan Narayan Temple dates back to 1680 and a number of icons featuring the Lord Vishnu are found within. Difficult to miss is the Manju Deval. This triple story temple is dedicated to the god Shiva and was constructed in 1692. Temples aren't the only sights to see in Kathmandu Durbar Square, statues also abound. A statue worth noting is the dancing Krishna located in the shrine of Nasal Chowk. Kala Bhairav is a massive stone statue of Shiva in his frightening aspect. Visitors to Durbar Square in Kathmandu will also appreciate the botanical garden of Bhandarkal. Commissioned by King Pratap Mall in the 1600s, the garden is filled with natural beauty.
Indeed there is much to see and be discovered in Kathmandu Durbar Square. Delve right into the Nepali culture and religious fervor in this unique and inspiring place.

Explore the Intriguing Patan Durbar Square

Tourists in Nepal will find themselves utterly awestruck by the exceptional grouping of palaces, shrines, monuments and temples in Patan Durbar Square. Who would have thought that so many buildings of historical and religious value could be found in such great density, but Patan Durbar Square in Nepal proves it true. A fascinating tourist attraction, visitors will spend an entire day exploring the many features of Patan Durbar Square.Some of Nepal's top sights and architectural feats are located in close proximity to each other at the famed Patan Durbar Square in the Kathmandu Valley. The Durbar Square of Patan is centered around the Royal Palace. Surrounding the intricately designed Royal Palace of Nepal are numerous temples, all exquisite examples of Newari architecture. Patan Durbar Square boasts three courtyards, known locally as chowks. These are the Main Keshab Narayan Chowk, Mul Chowk and Sundari Chowk. Standing out as a classical example of Nepali stone architecture is the grand Krishna Mandir. Containing some 21 shrines, the Krishna Mandir of Patan Durbar Square was constructed during the 1600s under the direction of King Siddhi Narsingh Malla. The Krishna Mandir was built with the purpose of praising Lord Vishnu in his incarnation as Krishna. Krishna gained much fame when he fought along with the Pandavs during the mythological Mahabharat war. Scenes from this dramatic battle have been carefully engraved on the walls of Krishna Mandir.
As you make your way around Sundari Chowk of Patan Durbar Square you will see the magnificent Tushahity royal bath. This exquisite structure is a marvelous work of stone art. A massive platform built from stone dominates the chowk. It is here that one of the kings would sleep during cold nights and sit during the monsoon rains, all in with the goal of achieving eternal bliss.Another popular attraction in Patan Durbar Square is the Golden Temple or Hiranya Varna Hahabiliar. Inside this Newar monastery is a marvelous collection of metal sculptures, statues, paintings and scriptures. Another religious site in Patan Durbar Square that features metal works is the Bhimsen Temple. The Bhimsen temple was built in honor of Bhim, a god worshiped by businessmen in Nepal. Other sights to look out for in Patan Durbar Square are Teleju Bhawani Temple(1667), Degu Taleju Temple, Uku Bahal and Mahaboudha Temple.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Patan Durbar Square has much to offer tourists. Not only can visitors view the marvelous structures and religious art works, but there are also fascinating stores located around the squares where you can find delightful souvenirs and other items. Indeed, a tour of Patan Durbar Square is not to be missed.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square in Nepal

Close to Kathmandu, lies the town of Bhaktapur. King Anand Dev established the town in the year 889 AD, and it is therefore steeped in tradition, culture and a rich history. The Mallas ruled Bhaktapur for many years. Most of the statues, temples and sanctuaries seen today were constructed during their rule.Bhaktapur Durbar Square is home to some of the most beautiful and breathtaking of these creations, complete with wooden carvings, gateways and idols.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is unique as it is one of the few sights in Nepal that hosts a great variety of attractions at the same location. One of these attractions is the Lion Gate. This spectacular gate was constructed in the 17th century, in approximately the year 1696, by King Bhupatendra Malla. The reason visitors are attracted to this gate, is the two massive and beautifully crafted statues of lions that guard the gate. Next to the lions are the images of goddess Ugrachandi and Lord Shiva carved from stone. As visitors start moving toward the center attraction of the Durbar Square in Bhaktapur, the Fifty-Five Window Palace, they will be greeted by the Golden Gate or Sun Dhoka. As the main entrance to the palace courtyard, King Ranjit Malla spared no expense with the gate's construction in the 7th century. It is known as the most exquisite of its kind in the world and is beautifully decorated. The doors of the Golden Gate are adorned with Garuda (mythical half-man half bird) and goddess Kali, both being cared for by heavenly creatures. The Palace of Fifty-Five Windows was constructed in the year 1427 by King Yakshay Malla and renovated in the 17th century by King Bhupatindra Malla. It is considered an architectural masterpiece, constructed from wood and brick. Its most significant feature is the balcony that is home to the famous Fifty-Five windows. This is a woodcarving feat that leaves visitors awestruck.
Ranking amongst the noteworthy sights in Nepal, the Durbar Square in Bhaktapur has much more to offer than just a palace and two gates. Visitors will also be able to visit the 17th century Vatsala Temple and the Pashupati Temple. The pagoda temple, the temple of Nyatapola, was constructed in the year 1702. Standing five-storeys in height, it is the tallest pagoda in Nepal. The figurines on each floor are spectacular and each storey is individually connected to the elements of sky, wind, water, fire and earth. The art gallerydisplays various religious art pieces and the looming statue of King Bhupatindra Malla pays tribute to a king that was not only a ruler, but a creative mind and artist. Visitors can also look forward to viewing the Stone Temple of Batsala Devi, the Bhairavnath Temple, Dattatraya Temple and the Changu Narayan Temple. Visiting the Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a unique and rare opportunity to relive history and touch the past.

Discover the birthplace of Buddha at Lumbini

Whether you are a Buddhist or not, a trip to the ancient village ofLumbini is essential. No trip to Nepal would be complete without time spent at the place of Buddha’s birth. Once reported to be an incredibly beautiful network of gardens and trees which beautified the homes and lives of those who lived here, Lumbini today seems to place a stronger emphasis on the ancient ruins that have survived the centuries.Lumbini in Nepal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the four main holy sites of the Buddhist religion.
Situated at the foot of the beautiful Himalayas in the Lumbini Zone of Nepal, this ancient village was once well reputed across the country for its natural beauty. The entire village was a beautiful garden filled with green Sal trees and small bodies of water – all of which was tended by the Shakyas and Kolias clans. It is said that Maya Devi, the mother of Gautama Buddha, decided to travel to her parents in Devadaha while she was pregnant with Gautama Buddha. She stopped at the village of Lumbini along the way to rest and, perhaps overcome by the natural grandeur of the village, Maya Devi ended up giving birth to Buddha under a Sal tree. Over the coming centuries a number of monuments and reliefs were established in memory of this historical event.
The first may have been four stupas and a stone pillar complete with equestrian statue on it which was erected in 249 BC by Emperor Ashoka. The stone pillar has an inscription dictating the events of the royal visit and informing visitors of the fact that Buddha was born here. Another monument is that of a bas relief depicting Maya Devi holding onto the branch of a Sal tree with her newborn child standing on a lotus flower nearby. It is believed that this relief was installed by the Malla Kings somewhere between the 11th and 15th century. Over time the village became forgotten and neglected until it eventually disappeared. Then, in 1895, an archaeologist discovered the great pillar erected by Emperor Ashoka. This led to several archaeological digs and the rediscovery of Lumbini and the birthplace of Buddha.Today you may be disappointed to find that Lumbini is not nearly as splendid as it must have been in its heyday. However there are plenty of excellent historical attractions to make up for this fact. The village is filled with the ruins of ancient temples and monasteries. It is also home to a sacred Bodhi tree, an ancient bathing pond and, of course, the Asokan pillar. The Mayadevi temple is said to pinpoint the precise location of Buddha’s birth and this temple is filled with pilgrims from across the world who chant and meditate here all day long. So visit this amazing World Heritage Site in Nepal for yourself - you wont regret it!

The Striking Gorkha Royal Palace

It was said, that if anyone was seeking justice, no ruler was as fair and just as the King of Gorkha. The Gorkha kingdom was established in the year 1560, by the legendary King Drabya Shah. From the year 1604 to 1641, theShah dynasty would become famous and rule over Gorkha. Today, the reminders of this era stand proudly in the form of theGorkha Royal Palace, the Gorkha Bazaar and Gorkha Durbar.The Gorkha Royal Palace was the birthplace of Prithvi Naraya, who was born in the central palace named Dhuni Pari. Prithvi Narayan Shah is known for gathering his Gorkha soldiers and battling to unify all of Nepal by taking control of the Kathmandu. After his amazing victory, in the 18th century, Kathmandu became the capital of Nepal.To tell someone that the Gorkha Palace is located in the east side of the Gorkha Durbar would be deceiving. Most visitors are more than awestruck when they look up at the palace on the hill and the approximately one thousand seven hundred steps that lies between them and palace. The climb to the Gorkha Palace might be challenging, but the view is rewarding and the way down is a lot easier. Most of the palace remains the same as in the days of Ram Shah, but kings and rulers that followed did make a few minor changes during their reigns. Restoration work to this beautiful sight in Nepal has kept the palace in excellent condition, and although it is not always open to visitors, especially not the second floor, much can be seen through the latticed windows. The architectural style of the palace is known as Newari-style, and when peering through the windows visitors will be able to see the throne of Prithvi Narayan. Also visible is the “eternal flame” that has been burning for many years, as it was lit straight after the uniting of Nepal, at the hands of Prithvi Narayan. The detailed woodwork and spectacular carvings make the Gorkha Palace a treasured piece of history and a popular sight in Nepal.On clear days or early mornings, the view from the palace is just short of a visual miracle of nature. The panoramic views of the rolling green landscapes, snow capped Himalayas and the town below is spectacular. From this vantage point visitors will be able to see the Goddess Gorakhkali Temple, the Himalchuli Mountain, Manaslu Mountain, Annapurna and Ganesh. It is a view and a moment in time that visitors are unlikely to forget.

Embassy of different country in Nepal

2012-06-24T06:29:00.000-07:00

Australian Embassy in Nepal

The Australian Embassy in Nepal is focused on providing necessary services to citizens of Australia living in or visiting Nepal, as well as to Nepali people who wish to travel to Australia. The Visa Offices provide information about visa requirements for people wanting to enter into Australia or wanting to become a citizen of Australia. The Visa office also processes applications for visas and citizenship.

The Australian Embassy is involved with a 'Direct Aid Program' (DAP), which is focused on dealing with humanitarian hardships in selected countries. The goal of the DAP is also to grow the international relations Australia has and to advance public diplomacy objectives. The DA program is funded by the Australian Government and is controlled by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

The Australian Development Scholarships program (ADS) provides an opportunity for people living in developing countries a chance to participate in full-time studies, whether it is undergraduate or postgraduate, in Australia. Each year up to one thousand Australian Development Scholarships are awarded to men and women living in one of the thirty-one countries that are part of this program.

You can find the Australian Embassy located at Bansba, Kathmandu, Nepal. If you would like to write to the Australian Embassy you can reach them at PO Box 879, Kathmandu. If you would like to phone the Embassy you can contact them at +977 1 4371 678 or you can fax them at +977 1 4371 533. The Consular Duty Officer is on duty twenty-fours hours and can be contacted using the following number +61 2 6261 3305 or you can use the toll free number, within Australia, 1300 555 135.

French Embassy in Nepal

The French Embassy is located in the city of Kathmandu and provides vital Consular Services to the French residents in Nepal and to the French citizens that come to visit the country, as well as to Nepali residents who wish to travel to France. There is a long history between France and Nepal that has resulted in a strong relationship.

Evidence of French influence can be seen in historic attractions such as the National Museum of Nepal, which is also situated in Kathmandu. The museum, which was constructed in the 19th century, was built with the assistance of French engineers. Some of the valuable exhibits within the museum are testaments to the relations of the countries that are centuries old. On a trip to France, between 15 August 1850 to 10 October 1850, Prime Minister Jang Bahadur Rana was presented with a sword from Napoleon III and on 20 April 1949 relations between the two countries started to develop. One of the most memorable moments of this time, was the first time Annapurna was climbed by Louis Lachenal and Maurice Herzog. The French Embassy in Nepal was officially established in June 1967 and at the same time, Nepal opened an embassy in France.

The French Embassy maintains political relations with Nepal and represents France. They are responsible for working together with Nepal on various projects and initiatives, but also provide important services to the French citizens living in Nepal, as well as French tourists. They are able to assist with applications and issuing of different visas such as Airport Transit Visas, Transit Visas, Short Stay Visas, Tourist Visas, Long Stay Visas and Adoption Visas. Passport services are provided by the French Embassy, and they are also able to assist in emergencies such as death, illness and injury, natural disasters and civil unrest, and is center of information. Listings of medical centers, doctors and lawyers can be requested from the embassy and they can offer valuable information in regard to marriage, adoption and various other interests of concern.

It is recommended to contact the French Embassy in Nepal before arrival in the country to receive an overview of safety issues, laws and customs in Nepal. Always register with the embassy and provide them with a travel itinerary for emergencies.

French Embassy in Nepal

Lazimpat, BP 452, Kathmandu, Nepal
Telephone: (+977 1) 441 2332 / 441 4734 / 441 8034
Fax: (+977 1) 442 3102 / 441 8288 / 441 9968

Please note: Contact details are subject to changes.

Indian Embassy in Nepal

It is the responsibility of the Embassy of India in Nepal to maintain and strengthen the existing relations between India and Nepal. India and Nepal have had a long-standing relationship since the 1950 signing of the Treaty and Peace Agreement. It is a relationship that has been able to withstand political changes and economic difficulties.

The Indian Embassy in Nepal has been significant in the economy of Nepal, by promoting foreign investments, projects and business opportunities. India has also played a vital role in irrigation projects and assisting with establishing a stable infrastructure within Nepal. They are also responsible for providing Consular Services to citizens of India and tourists to Nepal.

Visa and passport applications can be done at the Indian Embassy in Nepal and visitors from Nepal can also apply for visas into India at the embassy. Tourist visas are valid from the date of issue, for six months and cannot be converted or extended. Transit visas cannot be used for tourism or visiting in India. Student visas, long-term visas and other visas can also be applied for at the India Embassy. Repeated applications for tourist visas will be turned away. Gratis Visas are available for nationals from Bangladesh, Mongolia, San Merino, South Africa, Jamaica, Afghanistan, Namibia, Poland, Hungary, Uruguay and Argentina. The Indian Embassy can also be contacted in regard to travel information in Nepal, destination information, safety updates on regions, emergency assistance and inquiries regarding the law and customs in the country.

The India Embassy in Nepal works closely with the Nepali government on many local projects such as the Welfare for Indian Armed Forces Ex-Servicemen in Nepal, general welfare issues, education, road maintenance and improvements such as bridges, pensions, medicine and research. It is the interest in the same goals that strengthen the ties between the countries and foresee a long future together. Indian citizens should not hesitate to contact the India Embassy in regard to any concerns or queries they might have. The Indian Embassy in Nepal is dedicated to service delivery to their countrymen and to keep on improving relations between India and Nepal.

Indian Embassy

PO Box No. 292, Lainchaur, Kathmandu, Nepal
Telephone: (+977 1) 410 900 or 423 006 Fax: (+977 1) 413 132 or 428 279
E-mail: hocktm@mos.com.np

Please Note: Contact details are subject to changes

Embassy of the United Kingdom in Nepal

The Embassy of the United Kingdom in Nepal is located in Kathmandu. The purpose of the embassy of the United Kingdom, is to uphold and maintain relations with Nepal and to promote the United Kingdom within Nepal. To achieve these goals, the U.K. Embassy has been divided into four offices that each concentrate on their own individual tasks.

The divisions within the United Kingdom Embassy include: the Political Team that monitors and reports on the political status and situations in Nepal; the Consular and Visa Division that takes care of the interests of British citizens and travelers; and the Defense Division that maintains the defense relationship between Nepal and the United Kingdom. The Management Team takes on the responsibility of the staff at the embassy, the administration and financial aspects of the embassy and the maintenance of the embassy buildings.

The Consular Services provided by the Embassy of the United Kingdom in Nepal includes visa services, passport services, marriage documentation, birth registration, adoptions and emergency services. They advise all British citizens to obey the laws of Nepal, as they have very limited access and influence in regard to detainees or those who are arrested.

The U.K. Embassy works to ensure the safety of its citizens and prides itself that it always has the latest and most recent event and political information available. Their in offices in Kathmandu can be contacted in regard to any concerns or queries.

British Embassy in Nepal

PO Box 106, Lainchaur, Kathmandu
Telephone: (+997 1) 441 0583 or 441 4588
E-mail: britemb@wlink.com.np

Please note: Contact details are subject to changes

Embassy of the United States in Nepal

The goal of the United States Embassy is to promote peace and a democracy within Nepal. The United States Embassy also works to gain the support of the Nepali government in global issues. Together the countries work to fight terrorism, the control of drug trafficking and environmental protection. But first and foremost, the U.S. Embassy in Nepal serves to provide support in a number of areas to United States citizens.

The U.S. Embassy in Nepal is located in the city of Kathmandu, and has various divisions that focus on different aspects of the embassy’s mission. The Consular Services section is there to provide United States citizens information regarding the laws, culture, traditions, customs, destinations and safety advise. They are also able to assist in the renewal and application for passports and visas, voting from outside the United States, birth registration, adoptions, marriage in Nepal and emergency services. When looking at emergency services, the Embassy of the United States is able to provide listings of medical centers and doctors, assist during injury, death or illness, and during natural disasters or civil unrest. If an American citizen is detained or arrested the embassy can contact family and friends on the detainee’s behalf and recommend a lawyer at their own expense. The Embassy of the United States in not able to negotiate release, prison accommodation or participate in any matters relating to the courts.

The U.S. Embassy requests that all United States citizens read the safety updates on their website, or contact them directly for recent news. It is also extremely important to register their presence in the country with the embassy in case of emergency.

U.S. Embassy in Nepal

Panipokhari, Kathmandu, Nepal
Telephone: (+977 1) 441 1179 Fax: (+977 1) 441 9963
Email: consktm@state.gov or usembktm@state.gov
Please note: Contact details are subject to changes

Mount Everest with its routes

2012-06-21T09:56:00.001-07:00

World tallest mountain Mount Everest

One of the highest mountains ever to be climbed is the famous Mount Everest, which can be located in Asia between the border of Tibet and Nepal. Mount Everest is essentially part of the Himalaya range of mountains, but has been greatly publicized due to its immense height that has been recorded at 29,028 feet or 8,848 meters high.

Many local names have been given to Mount Everest in an attempt to recognize it for its majestic height. The origin of Mount Everest's name comes from the British General and Surveyor at that time, Andrew Waugh, who named the mountain after Sir George Everest in 1865. Later the Nepalese government gave Mount Everest a Nepalese name Sagarmatha in 1960. It was an Indian mathematician, Radhanath Sikdar, who first measured and identified Mount Everest as the highest mountain in the world in 1852.

Mount Everest was first recognized for its sheer height in 1953 when Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay made the first successful attempt to ascend to the top of this daunting mountain on the 29th of May. These two men did not have the advanced technology and climbing equipment that climbers have today, they completed this daunting task with no fixed ropes and basic ice climbing equipment. Previously there had been an attempt by two men Andrew Irvine and George Mallory from the United Kingdom thirty years before. However, whether they ever made it to the top or not, no-one knows as they never returned to relate their adventures.

The easier of the two main routes up Mount Everest is the southeast route that can be accessed from the Nepal side of the mountain and the other main route comes from the north on the Tibetan side of the mountain. Apart from these two routes there are a total of fifteen other routes that will take you to the top. Most climbers will attempt to climb Mount Everest between the months of April and May before the unstable, monsoon season hits with its high wind speeds.

One thing that can definitely be concluded about Mount Everest is that each and every person who attempts to climb this magnificent mountain does so taking their life in their hands. In 1996 a total of fifteen people lost their lives in an attempt to get to the top of the highest mountain in the world due to various freak weather conditions. There are many route to climb the mount Everest from the Nepal. some part of the Everest also fall in the china so it also can be climb from china but it is said the it is difficult to climb from china so most of the people climb from Nepal, Hence there are different route to climb Mount Everest the route are given below:

a) South Col Route

The South Col route is one to be taken very seriously as unlike most of the routes its fatality rate is far greater with a current total sitting at 17. This extraordinary amount can be greatly contributed to the geology of this specific route as well as other features such as rock fall, exposure, avalanches and icefall. Some of the worst years to take place during an ascent of Mount Everest were in 1993 where, eight out of 129 mountaineers were unfortunately killed bringing a ratio of 16:1. And In 1996 and 1998 where 15 came to their fatal end resulting in a ratio of 6.5:1.

Everest has one of the most extreme altitudes and weather; thus there is only a small window of opportunity for climbing safely. This is normally done during the months of May and October which fall between the summer monsoons and the winter snows. The South Col route to this day is a very popular route to take especially for the first-time “Everesters” as the probability of reaching the summit is greatly increased. However with the previous stats mentioned it does somehow concern you that maybe the safety aspect is taken a little too lightly.

Spring of this year will see expeditions being taken up the South Col Route as well as the North Ridge. A great advantage however to the South Col Route is the comparably shorter time needed to reach the summit. This can be done generally in one push with exposure to the elements greatly decreased unlike the North Ridge which will see you spending at least one night on the slopes as you attempt to summit Everest. Mountaineers normally find themselves sitting on the South Col which refers to the position between the Lhotse face and Mount Everest - this being the last camp position before reaching the top of Everest.

There are some interesting facts: the first ascent along the South Col Route was that ofSir Edmund Hillary from New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay of Nepal, to this day no one knows for sure who reached the summit first and this information will possibly remain with them forever. It was in 1978 that the first oxygen-less climb would be made; it had seemed an impossible feat but with determination of Reinhold Messner from Italy and Peter Habler from Australia this was accomplished.

b) South East Ridge Route of Mount Everest

One of the most daunting mountains you can ever attempt to climb is that of Mount Everest – the highest mountain in the world. There are several routes that one can take up Everest, but the most popular two are the South East Ridge, that starts off in Nepal, and the North East Ridge, which begins on the Tibetan side of the Mountain.

The South East Ridge climb begins on the Southern side of themountain in Nepal. To get there requires that you first take a short plane trip to Lukia - a base camp that has a number of short landing strips - before you can carry on. It is suggested that you spend a few days here before you head over to the next base camp as a way of helping your body acclimatize. It is important you don't rush this process as it can cause problems later on, which you can ill afford when climbing Mount Everest. From Lukia you will take a trek up to the next base camp and again spend a couple of days adjusting before the real work begins.

The first stop in the climb up the southeast side of Mount Everest is the Khumbu Icefallwhich is well-known for its crevasses and unstable ice forms. One needs to be quite cautious here as things could go quite badly very soon into the climb up Everest. Once you pass Khumbu you will soon reach the first camping area called Camp I, which is approximately 6,065 meters high. After you have had a good rest and some warm food, your next camping site is at Camp II just over four hundred meters above Camp I.

Before you get to Camp II you will pass through a glacial valley, a relatively flat piece of land, called Western Cwm or ‘Valley of Silence’. This is an apt name as there is not much to see here. Interestingly, the Western Cwm can become quite hot when the sun is shining. This is due to the sun rays reflecting off the ice, which there is a lot of in this glacial valley. Camp III stands at 7,470 meters on an ice ledge, but first you need to climb up the Lhotse face before you can get there.

From Camp III you climb over the Yellow Band and Geneva Spur before you get to Camp IV at 7,920 meters. At 8,400 meters you will pass a platform called the Balcony that will take you up the eastern side of the mountain to the dome made of ice. This is officially the Summit of the Southern part of the climb. At this point you are standing at 8,750 meters high but you still have to climb up Kangshung face, pass over Hillary step and climb the slope before you reach the top.

c) South Pillar Route

Your adrenaline pumps as the cold wind brushes your face. You have to pinch yourself, if you can get beneath all those layers of clothing, knowing this is a dream you’ve been preparing yourself for most of your life. Here it is towering in front of you – Everest! Nothing will ever compensate for the emotions and feelings you experience as you ascend slowly to the top of the summit.

The South Pillar is considered one of the safer routes that one can take up Mount Everest, although when dealing with these incredible heights one has to question the meaning of “safe” when placing it next to the word “Everest”. It almost seems impossible. The South pillar (route 7) was first attempted in 1980 by Jerzy Kukuczka and Andrzei Czok, two renowned Polish climbers whose experience in the art of climbing, specifically the Alps, is insurmountable. To date this route has been climbed over 17 times and has only incurred one fatality unlike some of the more ‘treacherous’ routes.

The one fatality recorded was of Josef Psotka who died while descending when he unfortunately fell to his death. However, when you probe into the account a little deeper, you will notice that the fatal fall actually occurred from the side of the Lhotse Face and so it can be said that gratefully at this point no fatalities have occurred on the South Pillar route. Most climbers, however, find the climb a challenge – as it is – and will normally opt for the ‘gentler’ South East Ridge route which is further below.

Not many people are able to say they have ascended Everest five times, but for Dawa Temba, a Sherpa from Namche in Solukhumbu, this has been a grand privilege. His first summit was on the 23 May 1977 along the Standard South East Ridge route; thereafter in October of 1994 he again went along the Standard South East Ridge route but in accordance with a British expedition. Later in 1999 and 2000 he ascended for the third and fourth time along the Standard South East Ridge. Lastly in the same year he again summated via the South Pillar along with the Danish Expedition. He has set an amazing record that many will not even dream of repeating.

d) South West Face Route

Nothing can really express the emotions one feels after having just finished establishing your base camp. This is when you can take the time to gaze out at the surrounding landscape and allow your eyes to wonder heavenward. You may take in the surrounding landscape for what seems like an eternity before it suddenly hits you; you’re looking at the highest mountain in the world!

This is the feeling one must think Dougal Haston and Doug Scott, lead by Chris Bonington from the United Kingdom, must have felt as they began their ascent of Mount Everest with their team in 1975. Interestingly the route they chose to take was a previously unknown and unexplored by any mountaineer at that point. However today there have been over 15 summits recorded and over four fatalities. The route now has a 27% chance of death occurring during ascent or descent of Everest.

For a period of four years the Nepalese Government banned all climbing within the Nepalese Himalayas from 1966 to 1969. It reopened in 1969; however Tibet was still inaccessible which meant that the southern approach was the only route available. This made an interesting challenge which was lapped up by top mountaineers. What makes the South west face so demanding is its vertical cliffs which are over 600 meters in height and limit most progress.

The South West face has two routes which you can choose from; both routes are termed as Class 5 and so both are extremely difficult because they involve severe altitudes. The original route taken by Haston, Scott and Bonington was termed as route four and it allowed them to reach the summit by sunset. However, during descent they were forced to stay overnight near the South Summit – again emphasizing the ever changing nature of the mountain and the need to be fully prepared and aware if you wish to survive.

Fascinatingly enough, Mount Everest has at least eighteen paths that have been officially recorded to date. Regardless of whether you have experience as a professional climber who has organized numerous expeditions or you are still somewhat of an amateur who wishes to take part in a commercial outfit, it is vital to understand the potential dangers that you could come across whilst attempting a climb up Mount Everest. The risks inherent in such a trip should be a foremost consideration when deciding whether or not to attempt such a climb as these dangers become very real possibilities the day you arrive at the Mount Everest base camp.

Art Gallery in Nepal

2012-06-20T09:29:00.004-07:00

Art Galleries in Nepal

There are a great many art galleries in Nepal which display not only intriguing ancient artworks but also house more contemporary pieces. Much of the art of Nepal is strongly influenced by the Hindu and Buddhist religions that are prevalent in this land. As a result, you will find that most of the historical artifacts bear beautiful images of deities and other related matter. Nepal's art galleries are fairly numerous and you will find that many of those displaying older artworks can more readily be termed a 'museum'.

Nepal's artistic history has seen many colorful phases – each with its own distinct trademark. For many years, artwork was dictated by a sort of trade standard, which resulted in many similar works being produced. These were in great demand for the decoration of shrines and temples and so there was not much room for elaboration. Certain slight deviations in style and subject matter did occur from time to time and the trained eye will easily use these period characteristics to estimate what era the artwork is from. Much of the artwork currently on display at various museums and galleries has been carefully excavated from a number of Nepal's mountains.

More recent years has seen Nepal receive more foreign influences and this has clearly been reflected in the contemporary arts. Whilst still usually retaining a dynamic and cultured feel, the artwork has steered away from the religious stereotypes of the past and become more of an expression of the artists thoughts and emotions. As you visit the various art galleries in Nepal, you will find works from both well known artists and artists still struggling to make a place for themselves in the busy world of art. Visiting art galleries is one of the best ways to unwind after a long trek or a hard day of haggling with shopkeepers in the various markets. Make sure that you spend at least a little time at one or two of Nepal's art galleries while in Nepal. To ignore these little collections of color and culture would be a real crime!

1) J ART Gallery in Kathmandu

Nepal is a beautiful country and one just has to look around at the picturesque views to realize that it is home to many natural wonders. Within the borders of the country you will find part of the Himalaya mountain range, which includes the tallest mountain in the world, the magnificent Mount Everest. The people here are really spoiled for choice when it comes to subject matter to paint and so it is no wonder that there are so many art galleries located in one country. Many of these galleries can be found in the Kathmandu valley, which is a vibrant and lively region filled with visitors and pilgrims that have traveled there to attend one of the many temples and shrines that literally line the streets.

The J ART Gallery is one of the galleries where you will be able to find some amazing examples of the artwork produced by the local artists in Kathmandu. The gallery is located in Durbar Marg, a prominent area in Kathmandu, not far from the Royal Palace. Durbar Marg is near the Tribhuvan International Airport, which will take you fifteen minutes by car, so is easily accessible. Durbar Marg is a peaceful area but can become very busy during festivals like the Indra Jatra that takes places once a year. Apart from the art galleries in Durbar Marg there are also well-known sights and historical attractions that you can go visit as well.

The J ART Gallery displays and sells, as mentioned before, local art works completed by recognized painters in Kathmandu and from around the rest of the country. Every few months the gallery puts on an exhibition displaying artwork collected from one particular artist or a range of artists to give them a little more exposure. You will often find local diplomats and foreigners coming and supporting the J ART Gallery and their artists. Remember to visit J ART Gallery whenever you are next in Kathmandu, you are assured to come out of the art gallery with an authentic piece of art in hand.

Kathmandu is a unique city where one can really experience the traditional lifestyles of the Nepalese people while still enjoying the modern luxuries. You will really get a bit more insight into the lives of local people here when you visit the art galleries because a lot of their lives, landscapes and emotions are displayed openly for you to see.

2) Moti Azima Gallery - Discover A Unique Form of Art

There are so many different things to see and do in Nepal that you will be spoilt for choice when you visit. There are temples, shrines, monuments and statues. Colorful festivals with ancient traditions will brighten even the gloomiest of days, while a visit to one ofNepal’s theaters will inspire, entertain and even educate you. There are many different aspects of the country’s culture which are just waiting to be discovered. Most do this by visiting the many museums and art galleries in Nepal.

Not every art gallery in Nepal displays your typical fine art and sculpture that you’d expect to find. The Moti Azima Gallery is a definite exception. Not only does the building itself seem somewhat unexceptional when you first find it, but the subject matter is far different from any other gallery in the country. The Moti Azima Gallery in Nepal is a showcase of local handmade items – from utensils to dolls. Here you will find traditional items, used in every day life over the centuries, and a beautiful selection of local hand crafted items. There is also an excellent selection of handmade dolls that represent the various ethnic groups in the area. The Moti Azima Gallery provides excellent insight into traditional social customs and styles of living and the entire gallery is housed in the medieval house which was typical of the sort of house owned by a Newar family during that period. The Moti Azima Gallery is therefore a combination of history, culture, art and handicrafts and a trip to this gallery will not only fascinate you but prove to be a very informative trip into the past of Nepal.

You will find the Moti Azima Gallery in a rather unimportant looking building which is three stories high and has quite a narrow front. The building is situated in Bhimsenthan in Kathmandu en route to Visnumati bridge and one would walk right past it were it not for the small, inconspicuous sign outside. The gallery is privately owned and not only features a gallery but a boutique shop where you can purchase mementos to remind you of your visit. The gallery is open from Sunday to Friday and adds a whole new dimension to any visit to Nepal.

3) Nepal Association of Fine Arts Gallery

The Nepal Association of Fine Arts was established in the year 1965. It was founded by King Birendra, of which he was the chairman. In 1977, the Nepal Association of Fine Arts became affiliated to the Royal Nepal Academy, and has remained a part of the Arts and Crafts Department of the Academy. The NAFA was established because of the King’s devotion to the development of art, and today it still carries this vision as its foundation.

To expose various talented artists to the public, the NAFA opened theNAFA Gallery in the Naxal Palace. Once home to the Rana family, this beautiful neo-classical structure embraces the latest artistic styles with the elegance it was constructed with. The desire to inspire young artists, develop both art and artists and expose the public of Nepal to fine art is evident in the exhibits that are displayed in the NAFA Gallery. It is definitely one of the richest art galleries in Nepal. The gallery itself has been divided into two sections, the Birendra Art Gallery and the general gallery. The NAFA Gallery is used to promote upcoming artists and the talents of the future by hosting temporary exhibits. The Birenda Art Gallery, on the other hand, has permanent exhibits of artwork, which consists of painting and sculptures.

The NAFA Art Gallery does differ somewhat from other art galleries in Nepal. Artists are able to exhibit their work in the gallery at a small fee and the style or structure of the pieces is unlimited. Here, artists can display their paintings, photography, crafts, traditional art, contemporary art, sculptures or any other form of art. The walls of the gallery can display approximately sixty to a hundred and fifty paintings, depending on the size of the individual pieces.

Every year, on the birthday of King Birendra, the NAFA Gallery hosts a National Arts and Crafts Exhibition, including various artistic workshops. Many artists from all corners of Nepal flock to this annual event, not only to display their work, but to win the grand prize. In each division, such as contemporary, traditional or sculptures, winners are selected, which highlights the artists work and the beauty of art in general. There are many paintings and breathtaking pieces that can be bought and visitors might be pleasantly surprised if the artist's work they selected becomes famous one day.

4) Top Exhibitions at the Nepal Art Council Gallery

If you are an art lover that is looking for something a little different the next time you visit Nepal, why not give the Nepal Art Council Gallery a try? This excellent gallery displays both local and international artworks, which are both contemporary and traditional, in an effort broaden the horizons of local art lovers. The gallery regularly hosts a variety of excellent exhibitions in its massive exhibition area and it attracts all kinds of people who are usually quite curious and want to know more.

The Nepal Art Council Gallery is a non-government organization which offers locals and any other interested persons the opportunity to become more familiar with the art world. Instead of focusing on art sales and supporting a permanent gallery, the Nepal Art Council Gallery chooses to place greater emphasis on the holding of regular art exhibitions. These may feature a variety of local art, focus on the art from one particular nation or enjoy a combination of both. The exhibition area is quite large and thus provides an excellent place to display a variety of paintings, sculpture and other artwork. In fact these exhibitions have been so well chosen in the past that the gallery has gained an international reputation for exhibition excellence.

One example of such an exhibition was the ‘Discover Japan through Contemporary Posters’ exhibit that was held in February 2002. This excellent display of contemporary artwork was organized by the Embassy of Japan and the then Chairman of the Nepal Art Council and was held at the Nepal Art Council Gallery. It ran for one week and was open to the public daily, enabling local art enthusiasts to get an idea of contemporary Japanese life, culture and tradition by closely examining the some 75 different posters that were drawn up by a selection of top Japanese graphic designers. It certainly drew a massive response and was one of the gallery’s many successful exhibitions.

The Nepal Art Council Gallery is one of the top art galleries in Nepal. It is situated in Babar Mahal near the Tribhuvan International Airport and is never a disappointment. So make sure you include a visit to this excellent gallery in your travel plans.

5) Srijana Contemporary Art Gallery

The Srijana Contemporary Art Gallery is located in Kathmandu, on the grounds of the Bhrikutimandap Exhibition. It was founded in 1985 and consists of the collaboration of art pieces created by both painters and sculptors. Visitors will be able to view the masterpieces that were created by the hands of well-known artists and explore the work that will create the talented artists of tomorrow.

As with many of the art galleries in Nepal, the Srijana Contemporary Art Gallery tries to promote local Nepali art, and develop contemporary art as a part of the country’s culture. Curious local residents or tourists will be able to meet the various artists and discuss their art style. Not many art galleries in Nepal offer visitors the chance to improve and explore their own creative skills. The Srijana Contemporary Art Gallery offers art classes in the adjacent building, where the artists have established a college to promote the talents of upcoming artists and offer assistance and advice to those who are just interested in art as a hobby.

When looking for fascinating and exciting contemporary art galleries in Nepal, visitors will find that the Srijana Contemporary Art Gallery comes highly recommended. It has a permanent exhibition of established and new artists, but also hosts a wide variety of temporary exhibits. The temporary exhibits change regularly and therefore always has something new to display. These temporary exhibits have also assisted many new artists to be seen and start very successful careers. In 2002, as part of a promotion campaign, the gallery hosted an art sale. The art on display ranged from works of art done in oil, water, pen, acrylic and etchings. Landscapes, contemporary and abstract art was available. Any from of art you can think of was on sale. It was an opportunity for the artists to receive great exposure, and the public to buy and own a magnificent piece of art. To make the sale accessible to all members of the public, prices of the art were not allowed to exceed the maximum price limit, which was determined by the organizers.

Many artists have displayed their art the Srijana Contemporary Art Gallery, one of the most popular contemporary art galleries in Nepal. These exhibitions included work by Yusuf Arakkal in 1994, The Two Men Exhibition in 1993 by Batsa Gopal Vaidya and the Human Happiness exhibition by Sarita Dongol in 1992. Rukmani Dhital had the opportunity to host her very first solo exhibition at the gallery. The gallery does not only bring exposure to art, but hope to the artist who dream of their work hanging on the walls of a collector.

6) Discover Nepali Fine Art at the NEF-ART Gallery

Nepal has long been a country of mystery and wonder. From the awe-inspiring mountains to the lush green vegetation of the many fabulous national parks, inspiration is everywhere. Colorful religious traditions and striking sculptures and monuments further provide the mental food that an artist needs. All these different elements combine in a swirl of color and emotion at the NEF-ART Gallery – one of the top art galleries in Nepal.

Also known as the Nepal Fine Art Gallery, the NEF-ART Gallery in Nepal is an excellent place to go if you are looking for art by some of the country’s leading fine art artists. Filled to the brim with stirring artwork from Nepal, this excellent museum showcases both traditional and contemporary art. Art has always played an integral role in the culture and religion of Nepal with icons and statues long being used in worship. Over the years, the art of Nepal made the transitional leap from religion to commerce with more and more beautiful Nepali artworks being chosen for their artistic and decorative value instead of their religious significance. People from across the globe have seen fit to purchase these remarkably stirring artworks and either take them home or sell them on in other countries where their value can be appreciated by people from around the world. Today, when dealers and buyers come to Nepal looking for art, they know that the NEF-ART Gallery is always a good place to start.

The NEF-ART Gallery is well known for its preference for displaying traditional Nepalese sculptures and paintings. Traditional Nepalese paintings are known locally as ‘Paubhas’. If you see a sign outside the gallery informing the public of a ‘Paubhas display’ being held inside, you can be sure that you are in luck. Such displays of traditional Nepalese paintings are held at the gallery every once in a while and they give buyers and art students an excellent perception of the sort of idealistic art style that characterizes this type of art. These include flat, bright colors; intricate outlines; a Buddhist or Hindu theme and an idealistic way of expressing the concept behind the artwork. The NEF-ART Gallery is just a short work down Gabahal Street off Patan Durbar Square. Make sure that you don’t miss this excellent gallery.

Some important mountain of Nepal

2012-06-19T10:22:00.005-07:00

Mountain Ranges of Nepal

A country of great beauty, Nepal is home to eight of the 14 highest mountains in the world. The Himalayan mountain range extends across the country from the eastern edge to the western edge. This conglomeration of beautiful and rugged mountain peaks has drawn mountain trekkers and climbers from all over the world. Many come here to test their skills, their mental and physical strength and their endurance. Others are drawn to the mountains of Nepal for more spiritual reasons. Whatever the case, you can be sure that you will enjoy Nepal's mountains – even if you only see them from a distance.

Most people traveling to Nepal come here to enjoy the striking backdrop of the Himalayas. This striking mountain range is home to the world-famous Mount Everest and many people come here just to try and climb the biggest mountain in the world. Still many others who visit enjoy trekking through the Himalayas, climbing smaller mountains and taking photographs. There is a lot to be seen and done in the Himalayas of Nepal and you do not always have to be an experienced and very fit climber to travel up some of the mountain peaks.

There are several noteworthy mountains in Nepal worth visiting if you are able. The first, of course, is Mount Everest though only a few ever brave the incredible and painstaking journey to the summit. The average visitor may spend some time at the Everest base camp or they may choose to view the biggest mountain in the world from another mountain peak such as Kala Patthar which offers better views than those enjoyed at the Everest base camp. Some of the mountains are extremely steep and icy while others are not quite so steep. Some noteworthy mountains in Nepal include Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Makalu, Dhaulagiri, Anna Purna, Imja Tse, Ama Dablam and Mansalu.

If you are planning to spend time among some of these legendary mountains when you next visit Nepal, keep in mind that the altitude is extreme and so is the weather. Even in the warmer months, the mountains are usually coated with snow and ice and the air has an unbeatable chill to it. You’ll need special equipment and it also helps to remember that you’ll need the services of an experienced guide as well as a legal permit to climb the mountains. The Himalayas are definitely not the sort of place you go for your first attempt at mountain climbing so you should be sure that you have gained adequate experience before booking your ticket. When you do come, remember to pack warmly, be prepared for anything and get ready to start your adventure in the mountains of Nepal.

1) Ama Dablam - Mother of Pearl Necklace

There are a number of absolutely breathtaking mountains in the Himalayas of eastern Nepal butAma Dablam is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful. This stunning mountain is crowned by two different peaks. The higher or ‘main peak’ is 6 812 m (22 349 ft) high while the lower peak is 5 563 m (18 251 ft) high. Because of the mountain's beauty it receives a lot of attention from visitors who often consider it to be the most beautiful mountain in the region. Appropriately the name ‘Ama Dablam’ means ‘Mother of Pearl Necklace’ which is not only a reference to the two peaks and the mountain's beauty, but also to the perennial hanging glacier which can be found on this breath-taking mountain.

The summit of Ama Dablam is generally encrusted with snow and ice, so anyone wishing to climb it should definitely keep this in mind. The mountain was first climbed in 1961 and many others have attempted to climb it since. Most people will start their climb by ascending the southwest ridge, stopping at three camps along the way. The third camp is situated perilously right below the glacier. However, this is usually not a problem since any ice coming off the glacier usually makes its way away from the camp. The climb is certainly not an easy one and climbers should ensure that they get a climbing permit and book a liaison officer to travel with them before trying to climb the peak. Of course, thorough training in mountain climbing is also a must and climbers must have a high level of fitness. The best time to climb Ama Dablam is during the months of April and May as well as September and October when the weather is most favorable.

For those who get a little squeamish at the thought of an avalanche rolling down on them, it is wise to keep in mind that a particularly devastating avalanche has occurred on Ama Dablam before. It happened late at night on the 13th of November 2006 when a large piece of the hanging glacier broke off sending debris crashing through Camp 3. The avalanche killed all six climbers stationed at the camp, sweeping away anything and everything in its path. While this is not a common occurrence, the fact that it has happened once means that it could easily happen again. However, it is unlikely that it will happen any time soon and those working in the area will likely be more alert to avoiding catastrophes such as this one in the future.

2) Annapurna - Goddess of the Harvest

Nepal has gained fame and popularity for its mountains, to be specific the Himalayas. It is home to the greatest mountain climbing extravaganza in the world. Here, climbers and trekkers can choose from 238 mountains that are above 6 000 meters in height and eight of the fourteen mountain peaks in the world, over 8 000. These monster mountains of Nepal are Mount Everest (the highest in the world), Lhotse, Dhaulagiri, Kanchanjunga, Cho Oyu, Manaslu, Makalu and last but not least, Annapurna.

The tenth highest peak in the world, Annapurna, is located on the Kali Gandak River, and has a peak on either side of its massif. These peaks are known as Annapurna I and Annapurna II. The name Annapurna can be translated into two versions, "Goddess of the Harvest" or "The Provider".

There are many mountains in Nepal, but few with the magnificent views and options that Annapurna has to offer. The two trekking circuits of Annapurna are the Village Trek and the Circuit Trek. The Circuit Trek consists of trade paths that were used in ancient times for trade between Tibet and Nepal and the region still overflows with a diverse mixture of Hinduism, Bon-Po and Buddhism. On this breathtaking trek, you will be supplied with many photographic opportunities of the Annapurna Mountain and the Dhaulagiri Mountain, including spectacular landscapes and many Nepalese wildlife species. This 300 kilometer trek circles the magnificent mountain and reaches altitudes of 5 300 meters. The Annapurna Village Trek concentrates on the foothills of the mountain, scenery and the small villages that are found along the way.

Annapurna has been steeped in triumph, but has also had its share of tragedy, such as in May 2005. Christian Kuntner, a 44 year-old Italian climber, was fatally injured during an avalanche. Another member of the team narrowly escaped death with sustaining serious injuries. These accidents are a reminder to us of the danger that comes with mountain climbing and that climbers should never loose their respect or awareness for the mountain they climb. But, no matter what the dangers or risks are, adventure seekers and mountain climbers will keep returning to conquer the mountain and overcome their own fear.

3) Cho Oyu Mountain - The Turquoise Goddess

Cho Oyu Mountain is known as ‘The Turquoise Goddess’. Her unfailing beauty is seen in her awe inspiring stature as she stands with the mighty Everest above all the surrounding mountains. It is at 8,201 meters, making Cho Oyu the sixth highest mountain out of Nepal’s eight and out of the twelve which exist in the whole world. This gracious mountain lies to the East of Nepal on the border of Tibet standing west of Mount Everest and has become a common sight for those who have decided to take the challenge and ascend Mount Everest along its northern face.

Like many of the eight thousanders which make up the famous mountains of Nepal it also belongs to a distinct range known as the Himalayas. Unlike most mountain ranges which have developed at a rather slow pace such as the Alps, the Himalayas is regarded as a quite youthful in geological terms. The result of these extensively young Mountain ranges is due to the collision between two mighty continents, that being India and Asia. The greatest difference is at the rate of speed at which these two continents collided thus resulting in some of the highest mountains in the world. It was just some 10 million years ago that the Indian plate lay some 500 kilometers to the south of its position it holds now, while the Asian plate has remained in a constant position. And so when you gaze at the beautiful Cho Oyu Mountain it will be the effect of the impact of the Indian plate having slid beneath the Asian plate causing crumpling and folding to occur at an extremely fast rate.

On the west of the Cho Oyu Mountains lies the 19,000 foot Nangpa La glacier pass, which is the main trade route involving Tibet and Khumbu Sherpas. It is because of this close proximity to the Nangpa La pass that Cho Oyu has been defined as one of the easiest peaks at 8,000 meters to ascend by climbers, but this should not be taken lightly as four members of the failed international women’s expedition were killed in an unforeseen avalanche - one of nature’s deadly secrets.

Many well-known climbers have ascended Nepal's Cho Oyu, with the first climbing expedition being lead by the famous Edmund Hillary and his party on the Northwest face. However, it was the Austrian party lead by Herbert Tichy that would make an unbelievable ascent of this Northwest face without oxygen, a new revolution in climbing with some of the largest mountains rewriting mountaineering history as never before. The first fatal climb came with the second ascent by Sherpa Pasang Dawa lama part of an Indian expedition and, who had also been part of the famous Hillary party in the first ascent would unfortunately never descend successfully. The largest controversial third ascent though would take place on this mountain with a German expedition who claimed they had reached the summit but had no proof of this during which two members died in ‘camp four’ from exhaustion at 7,600 meters high.

4) The Proud Dhaulagiri Mountain

The Dhaulagiri Mountain is located in the eastern region of Nepal, at the Tibet Border. It was discovered in 1808, and up until that time the Chimborazo Mountain in Ecuador held the position as the world’s highest mountain. Dhaulagirichanged all that, with a summit of 8,201 meters and it is today the 7th highest peak in the world. For thirty years, it was believed that Dhaulagiri was the highest summit in the world, but the discovery of other mountains across the world set new challenges and dangers for mountain climbers to conquer.

The mountain's glaciers, ice-falls and challenging ridges were first explored in 1960 by an Austrian and Swiss expedition group. It would become the world's first climb that was to be assisted by a plane. Unfortunately, the plane crashed into the mountain and they were forced to leave it behind in its icy grave.

The closest airport to Dhaulagiri is Kathmandu. Climbing this formidable mountain is suggested during the months of April, May, September and October. The mountain range has fifteen peaks, which are all 7,000 meters in height, and the terrain is harsh and unforgiving. Hiking and mountaineering experience is definitely needed for the Dhaulagiri Mountain and the region surrounding the mountain is just as spectacular. It is home to the world’s deepest gorge, the Gandaki Gorge. The panoramic views and magnificent sights makes the Dhaulagiri climb worth every effort. It is recommended that climbers join a team or climbing outfit to ensure their safety and a carefree climb.

Amidst all the beauty it is easy to forget that the mountain is still dangerous. Altitude sickness, avalanches and injuries are part and parcel of the thrill in conquering mountains. But, in some cases, the thrill becomes all too real. In 1969, Dhaulagiri took the lives of Boyd N Everett Jr and his expedition. Only two members of the original party survived that avalanche, as Louis Reichardt was fortunate not to have been in the path of the avalanche and William Read was evacuated the day before due to pulmonary edema. Viewed as the worst disaster in the mountaineering history of Nepal, none of the bodies were ever recovered. The world was reminded yet again of the dangers of the mountain in 1998. Chantal Mauduit and her Sherpa companion, Tshering, were both killed in their tents by a small avalanche. Mauduit was a well-liked and popular French Alpinist and her tragic death reminded everyone with a love for the mountains never to lose respect for the silent giants of the planet.

5) Kanchenjunga - The Five Treasures of Snows

Mount Everest is the highest mountain in the world; in third place at 28,169 feet or 8,586 meters is Kanchenjunga (orKangchenjunga), which means"The five Treasures of Snows". A number of climbers and hikers have had the privilege to explore and climb the mountain peaks where they are dazzled by the picturesque views surrounding them from different viewing points. Of all the mountain ranges Kanchenjunga is one of the least explored because of its remoteness and the difficulties in getting permission and access from the Indian side.

Kanchenjunga is made up of five peaks, three of which are found in India and the other two in Nepal. Another interesting fact is that four of the five peaks reach or go over 8,450 meters. Kangbachen is the lowest peak reaching a height of 7,903 meters, next is Kanchenjunga South at 8,494 meters. Then there is Kanchenjunga Central, which stands at 8,482, Kanchenjunga West at 8,505 and the highest Kangchenjunga Main at 8,586.

George Band and Joe Brown were the first two men from the United Kingdom to ascend Kanchenjunga in 1955 with their team of helpers. Since then there have been many expeditions completed by various teams of climbers representing their country. In 1983 Pierre Beghin attempted a climb up Kanchenjunga without bringing extra oxygen and done solely by himself without a team. 1998 was the year Ginette Harrison became the first and only woman to have successfully climbed to the top and made it down alive.

The local Sikkimese people found in India believe that the summit of the mountains of Kanchenjunga are sacred and not to be trodden on. In an attempt to show respect for the beliefs of the Sikkimese, the few who have successfully made it near the top of the summit stop a few meters before they get there.

In Nepal there is certain part of Kanchenjunga that has been made a conservation area run by the World Wildlife Fund, protecting, among other things, the Red Panda. Similarly, parts of Kanchenjunga found in India have been made protected areas in an attempt to provide sanctuary to both flora and fauna.

6) The Challenging Lhotse Mountain

Lhotse Mountain makes up one of the eight highest and majestic mountains in the entire world, sitting at a formidable height of 8,516 meters above the sea level. Its most famous heritage is it’s proximity to the most graceful, but most dramatic mountain - Mount Everest. Lhotse is the main summit, but in addition there is Lhotse Middle at a height of 8,414 meters and Lhotse Shar at 8,383 meters bordering China and Nepal.

There have been many opinions on Lhotse Mountain, with some regarding it as an inconsequential eight-thousander due to its small topographic prominence amongst all the official eight thousander’s, having a rise of only 610 meters above the South Col. Although this is so, Lhotse is not to be taken lightly for many an experienced climber has had his last breaths upon this imposing mountain - keep-sakes and memories forever hidden. Lhotse’s most defining aspect is its striking peak on the south face which has been reported as encompassing a variety of marine fossils with It’s rise of 3.2 kilometers and a horizontal distance of 2.25 kilometers creating the steepest face of its kind in the world for its size. The range of the Lhotse Mountains is that of the Himalayas which are very young in comparison to some others resulting from a continental collision between India and Asia at an enormous rate, thus producing some of the highest mountains in the world. Interestingly India lay just 500 kilometers to the south 10 million years ago while the Asian plate has remained in its original position as such and so resulting in geological terms as an extremely fast rate of movement. The effect of the Lhotse Mountains is due to the Indian plate sliding beneath the Asian plate causing folding and crumpling.

The first attempt up Lhotse Mountains was made in 1955 by the ‘International Himalayan Expedition’, a year later, the first ascent was recorded up the main summit with the second attempt only occurring 25years later on the 30th of April 1981 by Hristo Prodanov of Bulgaria. It would be some time later in 1965 when the first attempt to climb Lhotse Shar would almost be completed reaching 8,100 meters, a good effort by the Japanese expedition and which would finally be fully ascended in 1979, fourteen years later. Between 1981 and 1984 there would be a second and third ascent to Lhotse Shar, which would be made by a Switzerland and Czechoslovakia. Sadly, in 1989, Jerzy Kukuczka would perish while ascending the South Face of Lhotse Mountain after his secondhand rope would break. Then in 1996 Chantal Mauduit reached the summit of Lhotse and became the first woman to do so. Interestingly Lhotse Middle would only be ascended for the first time in 2001, 46 years after the first attempt up Lhotse was made by the ‘International Himalayan Expedition’.

7) Majestic Makalu Mountain

The startling Makalu Mountainforms part of the mountain range known as the Himalayas. This isolated peak is regarded as the fifth highest mountain, sitting just fourteen miles to the east of Mount Everest in the Khumbakama Himal region. It has distinct characteristics with its four jagged ridges in a pyramid formation making Makalu all the more formidable and impressive at 8,462 meters in height. Like most of the other majestic beauties that surround Mount Everest it has only been since 1954, when the summit of the curious big giant was reached, that mountaineers turned their attention to those surrounding.

The Himalayas in comparison to others is a very young mountain range, which formed from the continental collision between India and Asia. This occurred at an enormous rate resulting in some of the highest and vastly majestic mountains in the whole world. Interestingly enough, India had stood just over 500 kilometers to the south just over 10 million years ago while the Asian plate remained in its initial position. This fascinatingly is regarded as extremely fast rate of movement in Geological terms, and so with the Indian plate sliding underneath the Asian plate it has thus caused folding and crumpling.

It must be expected, as with any climbs on some of the highest peaks in the world, that the climb will take endurance with extreme preciseness should you wish to make it successfully up to the peak of Makalu Mountain. There are strenuous sections, which consist of short and steep portions on nearly vertical ice and thus require the knowledge of front-pointing skills or jumar on fixed ropes. It is always wise, if you are not a seasoned climber of these huge giants, to have your fitness and skills tested so that you are in the best position to not only succeed but to enjoy the marvelous privilege of climbing one of the eight highest mountains in the world.

Like many of the other eight thousanders, Makalu has set its own challenges for those who wish to attempt to climb, allowing only five successful climbs at her peaks out of the first sixteen attempts. A subsidiary peak of Makalu Mountain is Chomo Lonzo which rises to just over twenty-five thousand feet to the north of the summit and separated by a narrow saddle. The best season to attempt a trek up Makalu is during the months of April through to May or during late September to October.

8) Manaslu - Spirit Mountain

The Manaslu Mountain is the highest in the Manaslu region, and stands at a height of 8 156 meters. Even though this mountain in Nepal was first challenged in 1952, the summit was only reached in the year 1956. Manaslu opened for climbers in 1991, but they are still required to obtain permits to enter this area. The very first trekkers in the area were part of an expedition led by H.W. Tilman in 1950.

Trekkers and climbers need extensive experience before taking to the slopes of Manaslu. It is a mountain in Nepal that is known to be dangerous, and due to its remote and secluded location, rescue operations are hampered should anything go wrong. But, even so, it is a mountain that never ceases to amaze and captivate that adventurous spirits that flock here. Which is fitting for Manaslu, as it is the 8th highest mountain in the world, and its name means “Spirit Mountain”. Not only are the views breathtaking, the area is culturally rich as there are small groups of locals that live in the Nupri Valley and Buri Gandaki Valley.

The summit of Manaslu can be reached by various routes, of which the South Face is viewed as the most dangerous and difficult to overcome. Most of the treks to Manaslu start in Gokyo and over the Larkya La Pass. The recommended months for climbing Manaslu Mountain is during February, March, April, May, June and September to December. During the months of February to June, the days are warm and the forests and landscape can be view perfectly in the crisp and clear mornings. In June, the mountain is almost deserted, and climbers can enjoy their time in seclusion and tranquility. From September to December the days are almost always sunny, but the evenings can get extremely cold.

The beauty and magnificence of the Manaslu Mountain and surrounding area was hidden from the world for many years, due to the restrictions on this region. Even though foreigners are now allowed to venture into this area, with a permit, many people are still unaware of this natural treasure and the splendor of its landscape.

9) Magnificent Mount Everest

Airport of Nepal

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Airport

Whether you are traveling to or from Nepal, or within the country, you are likely enter at least one of this amazing country’s airports. Most travelers will arrive in Nepal via the Tribhuvan International Airport located in Kathmandu. This is the only international airport in the country and handles a large number of flights from both international and local airlines. From here you will find a variety of transportation to take you to your accommodation.

Aside from the Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal boasts a number of regional airports for quick and easy travel between destinations. These include Pokhara Airport, Nepalgunj Airport, Simara Airport, Bharatpur Airport, Dolpa Airport and Jumla Airport. Whilst you are whisked from one airport to the next, you can enjoy the spectacular landscapes for which Nepal is famous. So whether you want to explore the intriguing sights of the Kathmandu Valley or are planning to head further west for some fantastic trekking, air transport from Nepal’s airports is your quickest and simplest option.

1) Tribhuvan International Airport

Kathmandu is the largest city in Nepal and is situated along the Bagmati River. This vibrant ‘tri-city’ is made up of a population exceeding well over 1.5 million inhabitants. Just 5.56 kilometres away from Kathmandu, you will find the only international airport in Nepal.

The Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) is situated between three ancient cities, namely: Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur. It is within these cities that you will experience the rich Nepalese culture and artistic influence which is reflected in their many beautiful and sacred temples. Tribhuvan International thus plays a very important role since it forms a central hub from which local businesses can expand into the surrounding international arenas. It also provides a business opportunity for both local and international airlines.

Unlike most international airports, it is still regarded as being relatively small. It covers an area of 10,240 meters square. However, this does make it practically impossible for one to lose their way in the airport and the structure is a visible landmark from anywhere inside Kathmandu valley. It was officially inaugurated in February 1990 by his Majesty King Birenda. Since then, 90% of all flights now take place from the new terminal, helping the airport to live up to the title “Gateway of Nepal”.

There are many scheduled air services operating here which have branches situated within a reasonable distance from most of the cities around the world. These cities include: Thailand, India, Singapore, Hong Kong, Myanmar (Burma), Qatar and Germany, to name just a few. The national carrier is Nepal Airlines, which operates using Boeing 757s and 767s for all its international services. It conducts flights from Kathmandu to Bombay, Dhaka, Bangkok, Dubai, Frankfurt and London as well as many other places.

Regardless of whether you arrive in Nepal by land or by air, you will be required to provide information relating the length of your stay and your passport details. These must be filled on a disembarkation card before leaving the airport. Should you wish to travel to India, some form of identification will be necessary to enter - a visa is not an acceptable form of identification. Immigration is relatively simple and there are two counters available for the curious tourist. The first is for those who have valid visas ready for entry into Nepal on arrival; the second is for those who still require visas. A single entry visa for tourists will allow you 60 days within the country and will cost about $30 US dollars. However, should you wish to extend your stay, you will be obligated to visit the Central Immigration Office. All in all, Tribhuvan International Airport will be your gateway into the amazing world that belongs to the Nepalese people.

2) Pokhara Airport

Unlike Tribhuvan International Airport, Pokhara Airport is relatively small and acts as a regional airport for central Pokhara in Nepal. It is operated by the government department of ‘Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal’ and was established on July 4, 1958. It is from here that you can get regular connecting flights to such places as the city of Kathmanduand Jomsom. Warning: if you wish to travel to Manang you will have to establish when the exact seasonal connections are available so as not to be disappointed.

Pokhara Airport in Nepal is considered to be one of the busiest domestic airports in Nepal in terms of aircraft movement, with an increase of 64.5% since last year. Authorities also noted an increase in the movement of passengers where a surge of 26.7% was noted. As a result, Pokhara Airport is rated as the second busiest domestic airport after the Biratnagar Airport. In the future Pokhara could become the top domestic airport in the country should CAAN’s plans go through for a revised new airport.

There are three main airlines which are housed at Pokhara Airport. They are: Cosmic Air (which flies to Jomsom and Kathmandu), Nepal Airlines and Yeti Airlines (which both fly directly to Kathmandu).

Some interesting facts about Pokhara Airport: The shortest flight available within Nepal is about 43 miles away while the longest flight that can possibly be taken is about 91 miles. It is estimated that approximately 2,632 passengers fly out of Pokhara, Nepal, every week which then amounts to over 112 flights per week with an average of 44 passengers on board.

3) Nepalgunj Airport

The Nepalgunj Airport in Nepal is not one of the most popularairports in Nepal, but it definitely sees enough passenger and cargo traffic to sustain it. People often get direct flights to and from the airport, but may also choose to pass through as part of a connecting flight to another part of the country. The airport is located in Nepalgunj, which is probably the best access point for many of the surrounding areas. These areas include Rukumkot, Dolpa, Jomsom and Pokhara.

The airport is served by two main airlines – Cosmic Air and Yeti Airlines. Cosmic Air only really provides direct flights toKathmandu from Nepalgunj, but Yeti Airlines offers a wider variety of destinations including Dolpa, Kathmandu, Simikot and Rukumkot. The airport code for Nepalganj Airport is KEP and the airport sees roughly ten flights arrive and depart every week. The largest aircraft that takes off and lands at Nepalganj Airport is big enough to seat roughly 100 people, but the average flight has just under twenty seats available. Most of thecommercial flights take place on a DHT with a seating capacity of only nineteen. Yeti Airlines offers one flight to Kathmandu, Dolpa, Rukumkot and Simikot daily on a DHT aircraft. Despite the small aircraft used and the low number of flights conducted, this relatively small airport sees more than 1,590 passengers leave and arrive at Nepalganj every week.

Nepalgunj is a border town in western Nepal and it is often viewed as being the perfect starting point for treks to the Dopolo plateau and the Jumla region. This has given the Nepalgunj airport a somewhat vital role since the town would be rather difficult to reach without the services of an airport. Hence, even though the airport is small and sees very low amounts of air traffic, its role is a very important one. The traffic it conducts – especially with regards to tourists – helps to support the local economy to quite a large degree. Nepalgunj Airport offers four non-stop flights to different cities in Nepal. It also sees a lot of other traffic in the form of connecting flights to other cities and towns. Other lesser known destinations that are catered for at Nepalganj Airport include Bhairawa, Lucknow, Jumla, Surkhet and Meghauli.

4) Bharatpur Airport

If you are looking for easy access to the Chitwan District, you might want to consider using the Bharatpur Airport which is located in the city of Bharatpur. Bharatpur is the capital of the Chitwan District, and this makes theBharatpur Airport in Nepal one of the most important access points to this part of the country.

Despite its relatively small size, the Bharatpur Airport sees a large amount of traffic on a daily basis. The airport is situated in the center of the city and this makes traveling to your accommodation relatively easy. The city itself is quite a nice destination with a number of interesting attractions worth visiting. One of these is the Chitwan National Park. This beautiful national park is one of Nepal’s most popular government-protected parks. It is filled with hundreds of beautiful plants and animals, including some rare and endangered animal species. The Naryani River, the Rapti River and the Gish Hajar Lake are also very popular attractions in or around Bharatpur. The city is also home to the Devghat Temple, the Durga Temple and the Bageshwari Temple, amongst others. All three are very popular tourist attractions. Bharatpur is filled with great hotels and resorts that are popular with both local and international tourists. The city boasts quite a good infrastructure and has hospitals, colleges and a number of shops where you can while away your time looking for bargains and mementos.

Though the Bharatpur Airport is not as big as some other airports in Nepal, it is definitely growing at a steady rate. In fact, the Bharatpur Airport is considered to be one of the fastest growing domestic airports in the country in terms of both aircraft traffic and passenger traffic. The airport is situated at an elevation of roughly 600 ft and it has a runway length of 3 800 ft. The airport code is BHR and there are two main airlines which serve the Bharatpur airport. These are Cosmic Air and Yeti Airlines – both of which are headquartered in Kathmandu. Currently the airport offers one non-stop flight per week to Kathmandu and as many as 21 domestic flights on smaller aircraft to other parts of the country every week. So start booking your tickets to the Chitwan District through Bharatpur Airport now and look forward to a great travel experience.

5) Dolpa Airport

Perhaps one of the smaller airports in Nepal, Dolpa Airport is a neat little airport that offers travelers only the most basic of services. However, despite its diminutive size its importance to local communities and travelers should not be underestimated. The Dolpa Airport provides a much needed air service to Dolpa and the surrounding areas.

Dolpa is one of Nepal’s most remote and sparsely populated districts. It is situated within the Karnali zone and has its headquarters in Dunai. The terrain in Dolpa falls between 1,525 meters above sea level to 7,625 meters above sea level and so is characterized by steep valleys and a dry climate. Dolpa is Nepal’s largest district and it shares a portion of its borders with Tibet in China. A large section of the district falls under the authority of the Shey Phoksundo National Park who works hard at protecting the wildlife, plant life and historical monuments found in the region. The two most notable attractions here are the Shey Monastery, which dates back to the 12th century, and the Phoksundo Lake, which is the deepest lake in the country. The National Park’s name is a combination of both these attractions and the park is the only trans-Himalayan national park in the country. This makes the airport in Dolpa one of special significance since it provides some of the only year-round access to this important national park.

The Dolpa Airport usually makes use of the airport code “DOP” and is situated at an elevation of 8,200 ft. The runway is approximately 1,500 ft in length and this means that only small aircraft may take off and land here. The flight options in Dolpa are limited without only one airline – Yeti Airlines – operating from the airport. Yeti Airlines offers one flight to Nepalganj and back daily aboard a small aircraft with enough space for only nineteen passengers. Some travelers may wish to investigate the option of traveling into Dolpa by road from Rukumkot, Nepalganj, Jomsom, Pokhara, Jumla, Simikot and Surkhet. However, it is usually quite a bit easier to just fly directly to the Dolpa Airport. So if you want to visit this remote part of Nepal and spend time at one of the most spectacular national parks in the country, start booking your ticket for Dolpa Airport today.

6) Jumla Airport

If you are thinking of traveling to Jumla the next time you visit Nepal, you should definitely investigate the option of flying to Jumla Airport. Flying is a quick, safe and convenient form of alternative transport in Nepal. In fact, air transport is probably the only way to gain access to Jumla since the area is still not connected to the national road network. Flying also gives travelers the opportunity to enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Nepali landscape as they fly overhead.

The Jumla district in Nepal is part of the Karnali Zone. The city of Jumla is the main city in the Jumla district. The population of this relatively small city is just less than 90 000 and many of the people living here are supported by activities conducted by the Jumla Airport. The city of Jumla is situated on the banks of the Tila River which enables both the city and the rest of the district to grow large quantities of rice. In fact, Jumla is one of the biggest rice producers in the world. The entire Tila Valley and the nearby Sinja Khola Valley are brimming with paddy fields where the local ‘Kala Marci’ rice is grown in abundance. This rice is red in color and delivers much more taste than the more common white rice that is so popular in other countries. It is said that the Nepali language has its origins in the Sinja language of Jumla. Therefore a lot of people still speak the traditional Nepali dialects in this region.

The Jumla Airport in Nepal is situated at an elevation of approximately 8 500 ft above sea level. The runway is average in length, measuring about 1 631 ft in total. This enables it to cater adequately to the small DHT aircraft which are so commonly used for transport in Nepal. Airport officials generally make use of the airport code “JUM” when referring to this airport and there is only one airline currently operating from Jumla Airport – Yeti Airlines. This airline provides one flight aboard a 19-seater DHT to Surkhet and back each week. This makes access to Jumla difficult during peak seasons and traffic at the airport stays low. Nevertheless, the airport is fully functional and provides a much needed service to the area. So why not explore Jumla the next time you visit Nepal? You may discover that there is more to this remote part of the country than meets the eye.

7) Simara Airport in Terai

Because the standards of roads and road transportation are not generally all that good in the more remote parts of the country, a number of airports in Nepal have been built to provide a more reliable and quicker form of transportation. Unfortunately the expense involved in running and refueling aircraft remains a prohibiting factor for many Nepalese citizens who simply cannot afford the cost of an air ticket. Still, for those from out of the country, flying provides an attractive and not too expensive alternative form of transportation. This also leads to improved economies in more remote parts of the country since travelers who would not normally be able to gain access to smaller cities and towns can now do so more easily – spending their hard-earned cash here on accommodation, shopping and tourist attractions.

One such airport is the Simara Airport, which makes use of the airport code ‘SIF’. TheSimara Airport in Nepal is situated at an elevation of 450 ft and has a runway length of 3,740 ft. Like most other Nepali airports, the Simara Airport mainly supports a variety of smaller aircraft, which are less costly to run and maintain and which more than cater to the limited demand. This small airport is slowly becoming one of the fastest growing domestic airports in the entire Terai Region. The airport’s exciting growth has been reflected in the increasing number of passengers that have made use of the airport over the past four years – a number which has more than doubled over the course of this brief period. In addition to the increase in passenger traffic, the Simara Airport has also seen a seven-fold increase in cargo traffic during this four-year period. This certainly has exciting implications for locals, the airport and the airlines which operate from this small airfield.

Currently the airport is being served by Nepal’s two main airlines – Cosmic Air and Yeti Airlines. Both offer regular, direct flights to the nations capital city Kathmandu. A lot of people who want to travel to surrounding cities will often fly to Simara and then find some other form of transport to their final destination, or take a connecting flight to one of the small airfields at these remote locations. Thus, Simara also provides access to harder-to-reach places such as Rumjatar, Tumlingtar, Taplejung, Bhairawwa, Lamidanda, Biratnagar, Phaplu, Luka and Meghauli. So book your tickets now and make use of this great airport.

Official holiday in Nepal

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Official, Public and National Holidays

Below you will find a list of all official, public and national holidays in the country of Nepal.

Makar Sankranti

- 2012-01-14

As one of the most important festivals on the Hindu calendar, Makar Sankranti celebrates the sun's return to the northern hemisphere, as the longest night has passed and the days grow longer.

Vasant Panchami

- 2012-01-28

Marking the beginning of Spring, the Hindu festival of Vasant Panchami is dedicated to Saraswati, who was both the goddess of learning and Brahma's wife.

Sahid Diwash (Martyrs' Day)

- 2012-01-30

Martyrs' Day commemorates all those who have died in the struggle for independence and peace.

Maha Shivrati

- 2012-02-20

Also known as the Great Night of Lord Shiva, this Hindu celebration is dedicated to Shiva – one of the three deities making up the Hindu trinity.

International Women's Day

- 2012-03-08

Taking place in many countries around the world, including Nepal, International Women's Day acknowledges the achievements of women around the world.

Holi

- 2012-03-08

Originally celebrated as a festival of fertility and harvest, Holi has evolved over the years to include a number of fascinating Hindu legends, and these form part of celebrations held throughout Nepal in Hindu communities.

Rama Navami

- 2012-04-01

This Hindu festival celebrates the birthday of Lord Rama, an avatar of Vishnu, and the hero of the epic Ramayana.

Navabarsha (Nepalese New Year Day)

- 2012-04-14

This day is a public holiday in Nepal, giving citizens the opportunity for social gatherings, picnics and other celebratory events.

Vesak (Buddha's Birthday)

- 2012-05-05

In addition to celebrating the birth of Buddha, this holiday focuses on his life, enlightenment (nirvana) and his death. Celebrations include reminders of the transient nature of life.

Raksha Bandhan

- 2012-08-02

This Hindu festival is a celebration of brotherhood and love. The name of the festival means to "tie with protection" and rituals include sisters making bracelets from red and gold threads which they tie around the wrists of their brothers to symbolize their relationship. These bracelets, called rakhis, may also be shared among others with close ties, such as close friends and a priest and his congregation.

Krishna Jayanti

- 2012-08-10

This festival marks the birth of the Hindu god Krishna – an incarnation of Vishnu. Krishna is seen as a venerated warrior, hero, philosopher and teacher by adherents to the Hindu faith.

Vijayadashami

- 2012-10-24

Also referred to as Dussera or Dashain, Vijayadashami is the celebration of Lord Rama's victory over the evil demon Ravana. The festival is one of the largest in Nepal and is held throughout the country.

National park, wildlife reserve and hunting reserve of Nepal

2012-06-18T10:30:00.001-07:00

Brief description of NP, WR and HR of Nepal

There are a great number ofNational Parks in Nepal which are definitely worth a visit. The country has an abundance of wildlife which will appeal to all – snow leopards, Indian rhinoceros, barking deer, bears and tigers – and that's not all! Many a Nepali legend has incorporated these stunning creatures, and life in Nepal would not be quite the same without them. The best way to view animals is by visitingNepal's National Parks where all kinds of animals are protected in their natural habitat.

1) The Shey-Phoksundo National Park

Established in 1984, this national park is situated in the mountainous regions of Western Nepal. It is the largest national park in the country and features luxuriant forests, snow leopard and blue sheep. Besides having a wide variety of trees and plant life, the park has a great variety of animals. Himalayan tahr, toral, serow, leopard, wolf, jackal, black bear, weasel, mouse hare, rhesus monkey, langur and yellow-throated marten. It also has a great many birds. Because of the number of potentially dangerous animals, strict attention should be given to the guides in charge of the safety of visitors to the Shey-Phoksundo National Park.

2) Khaptad National Park

Also established in 1984, this park is situated in the mid-mountain region of Nepal's far-western region. The park features a unique mid-mountain ecosystem and is situated at roughly 300 m above sea level. Noted geographically for it's beautiful rolling forests and plateaus, the park has a great variety of vegetation. If you're an animal lover, you will find leopard, yellow-throated marten, tahr, Impeyan pheasant, chkor partridge, monal, griffin, red and yellow-billed blue magpie and kalij pheasant. The park also has a number of butterfiles and moths. At the center of the park you will find the beautiful Ashram of Khaptad Swami. Because the park has religious significance, drinking, smoking and violence in the park are prohibited.

3) Bardiya National Park

This park was first established in 1976 and as such is not only one of the older parks but also one of the most undisturbed. It is situated in the mid-Far Western Terai, near the Karnali River. Roughly 70% of the park is covered with sal forest. The rest enjoys a mixture of grassland, savanna and riverine forest. There are no people living in the valley and all farming that once occurred here has ceased. As a result, there is a lot of regeneration of vegetation which means the habitat is excellent for wildlife. The park features a number of endangered animals such as the wild elephant, the rhinoceros, tiger, black buck, swamp deer, gharial crocodile, marsh mugger crocodile and Gangetic dolphin. It also features a number of endangered birds. There are more than 30 types of mammals, 200 bird species and a variety of reptiles and fish in the park.

4) Rara National Park

Located in North-West Nepal, most of the park lies in the Mugu District. It is the country's smallest park but contains the country's biggest lake. The majority of the park is coniferous forest but deciduous trees like Indian hours-chestnut, walnut and Himalayan popula are also found. Musk deer, black bear, gorla, tahr, leopard and wild boar are common. Snow trout is the only recorded fish species in the lake. The extensive variety of birds found in the park include a large number of waterfowl.

5) Sagarmatha National Park

This park is located to the North-East of Kathmandu in the Kumbu region. It includes the legendary Mt Everest as well as several other well-known mountains. The park has been a World Heritage Site since 1979 and features a stunning variety of glacial valleys, deep gorges and heavy forestation. You are most likely to spot tahr, goral, musk deer and serow. The park also has snow leopard and black bear but these are seldom seen. You might also be fortunate enough to spot weasel, maren, mouse hare (pika), langur monkey and jackal. The Sagarmatha National Park is also home to a population of roughly 3000 Sherpa who trade livestock and herd animals.

6) Parsa Wildlife Reserve

The park extends over parts of the Chitwan, Parsa, Bara and Makawanpur districts in the center of the country. It features sub-tropical-type forests and Churiya hills. The flora is varied and home to a good number of wild elephant, tiger, sloth bear, leopard, gaur, wild dog and blue bull, to name just a few. There are also a great number of birds and snakes, including the king cobra, which enjoy the hot tropical climate.

7) Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

The Koshi Tappu is situated on the flood plains of the Sapta-Koshi in the Saptari and Sunsari districts of eastern Nepal. The reserves boundaries are defined by the river and the reserve area is subject to flood during the monsoon season. The river often changes it's course from one season to another. The reserve is mainly filled with grassland and scrub forest but also has some riverine forest. It serves as an important habitat for wildlife – most notably the wild buffalo. There are only about 100 buffalo living in the areas and this is purported to be the last surviving population of these creatures in the wild. The reserve is also home to a great many fish, birds and other wildlife.

8) Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve

Situated in the southern part of Far-Western Nepal, the reserve falls mainly in the Kanchanpupr District. The reserves most outstanding feature is it's large population of swamp deer of which there is an estimated 2000 to 2500 members of the species in the area. Besides a variety of wildlife and birds, the reserve is also home to the rare Bengal florican. You may also spot Marsh muggers, Indian python, monitor lizards, cobras, rat snakes and kraits but these are seldom seen.

9) Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve

For those who love testing their hunting skills and increasing the trophies on their wall, this is the only hunting reserve in the country. It serves both Nepalese and foreign sports hunters with a variety of game animals and it is carefully managed. This is the only place in Nepal where hunting is allowed and permits and permission must be obtained before attempting to participate in the sport. The reserve is home to a great number of blue sheep which are considered to be a highly coveted trophy. You may also find leopard, goral, serow, tahr, black bear, barking deer, langur, mouse hare, wild boar and rhesus macaque as well as a number of bird species, deer and wolf.

As with other national parks around the globe, the flora and fauna in Nepal's wildlife reserves are protected by law. Littering, hunting and the general damaging of the environment is prohibited and may even carry a fine. We strongly recommend that you follow the advice of your guide when viewing animals and that you refrain from damaging the environment in anyway. If you only leave footprints and shoot pictures, the legacy ofNepal's National Parks will hopefully survive long into the future.

National park, wildlife reserve and hunting reserve of Nepal

2012-06-18T10:18:00.001-07:00

Detail description of NP, WR and HR of Nepal

1) Discover the Natural Wonders of the Bardia National Park in Nepal

The Bardia National Park is the largest reserve of its kind, and considered by many to be one of the most peaceful places in Nepal. Situated in the Terai valley, it covers an area of approximately 968 sq. km. The park swas established to protect representative ecosystems, as well as to protect tigers and their prey species, and is protected by the board of wildlife in Nepal.

The Bardia Park was established in 1969 as a Royal Hunting Reserve. And in 1976 it was gazetted as the Karnali Wildlife Reserve. When this area was protected, about 1500 people of the Babai valley were resettled outside the park allowing the flora and fauna to thrive. In 1982 it was renamed as The Royal Bardia National Park, and in 1984 it was extended to its current size.

The reserve was given the status of a National Park in 1988. Greater One-horned Rhinoceros were translocated from Chitwan National Park in 1986, 1991, and 1999. In 1997, an area of 327 sq. km surrounding the park was declared as a buffer zone which consists of forests and private lands. The buffer zone is jointly managed by the park and local communities. Together they began community development activities and managed natural resources in the buffer zones.

The National Park in Nepal is about a four-hour drive from the town of Nepalgunj which is connected by air to Kathmandu. The quickest way to get there is to fly from Kathmandu to Nepalganj where the lodge staff will meet you for the 2-hour drive to camp.

At Bardia National Park there are more than 30 different mammals and endangered animals. You will be able to see the tiger, rhinoceros, wild elephant, and the black buck. Also found at the National Park are over 300 species of reptiles and fish including crocodile and dolphin. The Park is a bird watcher’s paradise that displays many beautiful and colorful endangered species of birds including migratory birds. You will see the Bengal florican, silver-eared mesia and the Sarus crane.

A significant percentage of the national park is covered in trees with a mixture of beautiful lush forest with grasslands. About 70% of the forest consists of sal trees with a mixture of grassland and riverine forest. Sal leaves are used in celebrations and religious offerings. Walking in these surroundings is amazing. Other common animals found in the park include the leopard and lesser cat, as well as deer, monkeys, and bears. What an ideal park to visit for game viewing.

The Bardia National Park has three distinctly different seasons, each one giving an exclusive experience. From October to early April the weather is dry. The days are hot, and the nights are cool and enjoyable. From April through June the temperature warms up, and peaks at about 45 degrees Celsius in May. The hot sticky days give way to the monsoon rains that last until September.

Come and experience Bardia National Park’s warm hospitality. There are lovely lodges in the park as well as wildlife tours of three or more days. Inclusive of accommodation you will receive meals and wildlife activities.

To experience Bardia National Park a two-night stay over would be great, but staying an extra day is worthwhile. The lodge operates round the year except during the Monsoon season of June - September when most lodges are closed. You may choose to be accompanied by the resident naturalists and guides on excursions such as the elephant-back safaris, canoe rides, jungle walks, bird-watching tours, and jeep drives.

2) Explore the Wonders of the Chitwan National Park

Situated in the south of central Nepal, the Chitwan National Park is one of the country's natural treasures. The park covers an area of 932 sq. km and is home to a variety of animals and plants. The first section of the park was set aside for animals by King Mahendra in 1959. Later, in 1963, more land was added for a rhinoceros sanctuary. The entire park was first recognized as a united national park in 1973 when it was gazetted as being Nepal’s first national park. It now covers the area of the Tikauli forest from the hills of Mhabharat, the Rapti River and quite a sizable area on the river's southern bank.

The park has received much attention in more recent years as a result of it being declared a World Heritage site in 1984. The National Park is seen as preserving a unique eco system which is significantly valuable to the world. Much of the area is made up of subtropical lowlands, forest and hills. In order to preserve the area as best as possible, only a small portion of the park is used for tourism. 1996 also saw the establishment of a zone around the park which consists of forest and private lands. The park and local communities join together in their efforts to manage natural resources in these zones.Birds and animals are left very much undisturbed and it is felt that there are a large number of undiscovered animals inhabiting the region.

The Chitwan National Park is a beautiful place with incredible diversity in both plant and animal species. It is well worth a visit if you are in the region.

3) Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve in Nepal

Nepal is a beautiful country inhabiting an amazing array of Wildlife Reserves and National Parks hidden amongst the many majestic mountains of theHimalayan range. It is here that you will also find the only hunting reserve set aside by the Government of Nepal.

Unlike many countries that support "canned hunting" (defined as: The sport or practice of killing animals that have been bred in captivity for the sole purpose of trophy hunting by international tourists), the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve has set aside a dedicated area where only certain wild species are permitted to be culled, thus controlling the general population in the area. It is only in particular seasons that controlled hunting occurs through the year, thus requiring a game license. This can be obtained through the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation within the Kathmandu area. However, it must be remembered that there is a limited amount of hunting operations who are able to cater for such expeditions and so it is good to look into this beforehand.

Nonetheless, Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is also a sanctuary to some of the rarest and most endangered mammals, such as the beautiful snow leopard, Tibetan wolf, red panda and the elegant Himalayan musk deer. Alongside this is an amazing array of rare bird species. In fact, Nepal holds some of the significant populations in the entire world, showcasing its natural riches.

The Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is set on 1,325 square kilometers of rolling terrain, lying on the Southern rise of the majestic Mount Dhaulangiri I, which stands over 8,000 meters in height, cutting into the Rukum, Myagdi and Baglung districts in the west of Nepal. As with most reserves it is not uncommon to find villagers co-inhabiting. In this particular area it is made up by two distinct groups that being people of Tibetan descent and hill tribes who supplement farming with animal and trade husbandry.

The reserve is characterized by a fusion of mixed hardwood forests which include fir, birch, rhododendron, hemlock, pine, juniper and spruce as well as one of the highest widespread populations of flora up to 36 species once again emphasizing Nepal’s natural riches.

Besides hunting, Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is a striking destination for wildlife and bird enthusiasts alike who wish to visit this isolated area.

4) Khaptad National Park

Khaptad National Park is absolutely stunning and you can enjoy hiking and some short walks in this most captivating destination. Khaptad National Park is located in the far western region of Nepal.

Khaptad is Nepal's newest National Park. It was established in 1984 and covers an area of 225 km squared. At Khaptad National Park there is so much to see and experience as it is rich in natural beauty and is surrounded by the Api and Saipal Himalaya ranges. You will be amazed at the stunning views around you, giving you a feeling of peace.

The Khaptad National Park in Nepal offers a wonderful experience for the visitor as it represents one of the few remaining mid-mountain ecosystems in Nepal's Himalayas. There is a small tranquil lake in a marshy area called Khaptad Daha, a religious site where Hindu pilgrims come to worship. The Late Khaptad Baba spent 50 yrs mediating and worshiping here, where he lived in a cave on the eastern side of the National park. Many pilgrims came to seek his blessing and advice. Khaptad Baba became recognized as a spiritual saint. There is a festival in Nepal that celebrated every year on his behalf.

The Khaptad National Park has many species of flowers with over 135 found in the Khaptad Grasslands. One particular species is a white flower that looks like a rose but it is so poisonous that if you come up close it can be lethal. There are also many medicinal herbs to be seen.

The park also has 226 bird species, among them are Impeyan pheasants, also the national bird of Nepal, the Lophophorus, and many others. The park also provides habitat for some 20 different species of animals. The most common are leopard. A wide variety of colorful butterflies, moths and insects are also an important feature of the Khaptad ecosystem.

The Khaptad National Park also consists of mixed conifer and tall firs. There are beautiful oak trees in the park and thick strands of bamboo. The park provides good habitat and cover for the animals.

The easiest access to the Khaptan National Park is to fly to Dipayal, Chainpur, Sanfebagar or Kolti, from where it is a few days hike to the Nepalese National Park. The Khaptad National Park is a marvelous destination to visit.

5) Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve first came about in 1976, when it became apparent that there was a great need to protect the beautiful but rare water buffalo, resident of the waters along the eastern border of Bangladesh. Later in 1987 it was declared a Ramsar site.

The Nepali reserve is positioned on 175 square kilometers of lavish wetland provided by the one-kilometer long barrage set along the Koshi River. An immense area of arable land surrounded by the many marshes, mudflats, lagoons and barrage contributes this vast amount of swampland to a great extent, resulting in one of the most beautiful bird sanctuaries in all of Asia. The best time to catch sightings of the immense collection of local and migratory birds along the barrage and the many river channels is during the months of October through to March.

It has to be said that one of the most exhilarating ways to explore the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is on one of the numerous nature ‘walks’. Nothing can prepare your senses for what they experience as you make your way through the thick fragrant grasslands, bypassing the many tranquil waters of the vast array of river lagoons and its many remarkable wooded forests that surround the area. As you gaze about you it is evident that the reserve seems to be protected by the majestic Himalayan peaks, which range to the fifth highest mountain in the entire world, Makalu (8,463 meters).

The Koshi Tappu Reserve is an exciting alternative to the many other wildlife sanctuaries surrounding the area such as the Bardia National Park and the Chitwan National Park. It is also ideal for breaking your journey especially for those adventurous mountaineers or trekkers who are making their way or returning home from their Kanchenjunga and Arun/Makalu region in Nepal. However, it is greatly recommended that you stay at least two nights to appreciate the many wonders of the reserve.

If you are seeking to find a place to relax and enjoy nature at its best Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is ideal. There are three main ways to access the Reserve. Arriving by air will take approximately 45 minutes from Kathmandu to Biratnagar, giving you a wonderful birds eye view of the Park. Once you have landed it will still take about another hour's drive to the main camp-site. If you should decide to go by road, you will be taken along an unusually windy road for about 500 km, from here you will have a splendid vantage point with scenic views lasting up to about 9 - 10 hours from the main point in Kathmandu. Lastly, you can choose to take an exciting 8 to 10 day trip down the Sun Koshi River, which will give you an unusual viewpoint and a direct route to Koshi Tappu Reserve.

6) Parsa Wildlife Reserve in Central Nepal

The uninterrupted range of the Churiya hills dominates the landscape of the Parsa Wildlife Reserve providing an interesting composition to the park as a whole. It was during the early 1980’s that a large amount of this natural reserve was established and now stands at approximately 499 square kilometers. To a great extent much of the Parsa reservecuts into four particular areas, which includes the Parsa, Makawanpur, Chitwan and Bara districts within central Nepal. Some of the most prevalent types of flora that you will expect to find in this region lie at the base of the Churiya hills, such as the common Chir pine (Pinus roxburghii) and the silk cotton tree (Bombax ceiba), which tend to thrive along the Khair and Sissoo rivers. Not forgetting the vital sabai grass (Enlaliopsis binata), which is classified as a medicinal and aromatic plant and grown for its commercial usage.

The Parsa Wildlife Reserve's sub-tropical monsoon climate allows for a varied woodland area consisting of both tropical and subtropical forest types. However it must be noted that 90% of this vegetation is made up of shorea robusta or as it is commonly known, Sal, a tree native to the eastern parts of the Himalayas as well as other areas such as Southern Asia, India and Bangladesh extending all the way to central India where it can be found in the Satpura and Vindhya ranges.

The Parsa reserve of Nepal supports an abundance of wildlife such as the residential wild elephant, leopard and tiger to the striped ‘laughing’ hyena, sloth bear and the elusive wild dog, to name a few. For the avid birdwatchers there are over 300 species to be found, including the endangered hornbill that can be located in certain parts of the forest patches. If you should require assistance of any type, the main headquarters of the Parsa Wildlife Reserve can be found along the Hetauda-Birgunj highway at Adabar, where much of the wildlife management and scientific research also takes place.

There are four main seasons for this area. Winter lasts up to three months of the year, starting in October and ending in late December. Spring starts in January and runs all the way through to March, while the characteristically hot summer days begin in April to June. Interestingly the monsoon season is defined purely on the basis of the amount and consistent rainfall received during that period, therefore it usually begins in July and ends in September. Unfortunately erosion is a big problem here, as much of the soil comprises of gravel thus weakening its ability to hold during the rainy seasons. It is, hence, not unusual to come across heavy scarring caused by the dry stream beds and numerous gullies on the rugged hillside in Parsa Wildlife Reserve.

7) Explore Rara National Park

Rara National Park is so captivating it begs you to get lost for a few days in the aroma of this natural splendor. If you are looking for peace and solitude, then this is the place to come. The park was established in 1976 and is Nepal’s smallest and most scenic National Park. Rara National Park lies at an altitude of about 3000 meters and is protected by the most beautiful alpine and sub-alpine ecosystems of the Himalayas.

The pride and joy of the National Park is the tranquil Lake Rara, also known as Mahendra Tal. This Lake has a lovely oval shape and is the biggest lake in Nepal. The Rara Lake is surrounded by rich forest hills and take note of the thickly forested hillsides and the snow-capped peaks around it. Some other summits in the park that may interest you are Ruma Kand and Malika Kand situated to the north of the lake. Rara National Park is also near the Karnali River one of the three main rivers of Nepal. The snow trout is the only fish seen in these lakes.

The Rara National park is inhabited by many beautiful animals like the red panda, black bear, yellow throated martin and musk deer. Also seen are the leopard and the wolf. The lake attracts some of the most stunning birds that will be appreciated by visiting birding enthusiasts. Also, here at Rara National Park, there are more than 500 different kinds of colorful flowers on display. At the Rara National park you will be able to view all the beautiful trees to name a few the pine trees the black junipers and the Himalayan cypress also oak trees are found. The easiest way to get to Rara National park is by flying to Jumla or Kolti from Kathmandu via Nepalgunj, followed by a three-day hike to the park office at Hutu. Summer is pleasant and the best time of year to visit the park is September to October and April to May. December through March, the temperatures drop to below freezing and heavy snowfalls do occur, closing high passes. So waste no time - come and visit this amazing place!

8) Sagarmatha National Park - A World Heritage Site

For stunning beauty and tranquility, come and visit a world heritage site that is truly unforgettable. Sagarmatha National Park is spectacular to say the least. You will not be disappointed by the surroundings of the national Park as it is situated in the eastern part of Nepal near to the Himalayas and the southern half of Mount Everest.

In July 1976 Sagarmatha National Park was formed and in 1979 UNESCO listed the park as a World Heritage Site. Sagarmatha National Park also lies to the northeast of Kathmandu and covers an area of 1,148 sq. km. of the Himalayan ecological zone.

As a visitor to Sagarmatha National Park you will appreciate the lovely green lush forest that allows you to breathe in its fresh pure scent of the woods. The forests consist of pine and hemlock trees. Also in the forests you will be pleased to see many other awesome trees such as the birch rhododendron and juniper trees. So bring along your loved ones to experience the true beauty and splendor of Sagarmatha National Park. Also truly magnificent is the gently flowing river waters giving you a feeling of peace and serenity.

There is much to see here in the Sagarmatha National Park, for instance, any bird lover will appreciate the magnificent bird habitat that the park has to offer. There are at least 118 species of birds that include Danphe Blood pheasant, the Red-billed chough and yellow-billed chough. What an awesome sight to watch these delicate creatures going about their daily business. So keep your ears open for their sweet song.

What is truly sad in this world today is to see the extinction of animal life. However, Sagarmatha National Park is home to a number of rare species that may never be seen again, such as the snow leopard and the panda. So come and take this opportunity to visit the park for an unforgettable experience. There are a number of rules and regulations in the Sagamatha National park that need to be followed. These regulations are put in place to protect the plants and the animals and it also allows everyone to have an enjoyable visit.

9) Shey Phoksundo National Park

Welcome to Shey Phoksundo National Park, a place of true beauty and wonder.

Shey Phoksundo is a unique National Park in Nepal that covers 3,555 sq. km. Nepal's Shey Phosundo National Park is an exciting attraction for everyone to explore and enjoy. The park was established in 1984 and is situated in the mountainous region of Western Nepal. It also covers part of the Dolpa and Mugu District. Shey Phoksundo is the largest national park in the country. It was established to protect the trans-Himalayan ecosystem.

You can come to Shey Phoksundo National Park and view the most amazing beauty of the mountainous peaks with high altitudes reaching over 6000m. In the winters it can get very cold with severe freezing temperatures.

Also near Shey Phoksundo National Park you can visit areas of the Tibetan plateau that includes the Khanjiroba Himal and the famous Shey Monastery, which is an attraction not to miss. Tourists can visit the Phoksundo Lake and the Langu Gora. Shey Phoksundo National Park has some stunning forestry to show off, such as the pine, walnut, willow, oak, poplar and cypress trees. The alpine areas also include berberries and wild rose.

You will also see some amazing wildlife here in Shey Phoksundo National Park. To name just a few, you will see blue sheep, musk deer, wild dog, wolves and monkeys. Also a favorite with most is the snow leopard. The park provides prime habitat for snow leopards and blue sheep. Equally rich are the many varieties of birds. Among the bird species you are likely to see in the park are impeyan, cheer pheasant, chough, raven, Tibetan snow cock, dipper, lammergeyer and so much more.

You may want to enjoy some hiking or trekking in this beautiful park there are some lovely rivers and lakes to see, so be sure to organize your permit. There are also some delightful accommodations in and around the National Park. Interesting to discover is the culture of the Tibetan people. The park is home to no more than 9000 people and the area is popular for their salt trade caravans. Their history dates back thousands of years. So come and visit Shey Phoksundo national Park - you won’t be disappointed.

10) Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve

The Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve was established in 1969 as a hunting reserve covering a relatively limited area of just 155 kilometers squared. Some years later though, in the early 1980s, this increased and now extends to just over 300 square kilometers, made up mostly grassland habitat. It is within the Southern part of the extreme west of Nepal in the district of Kanchanpur that you will find this beautiful wetland reserve.

It is here on the far-western part of Teraj that you will find one of the largest herds of endangered golden swamp deer, commonly known as the barasingha in Nepal. Their great efficiency within the soft marshy ground is attributed to the specialized design of the hooves that spread as they walk and make them extremely agile. It is only along the rivers and swampy areas that you will find them living most of their lives where the food is plentiful throughout the year. Although the Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve is of limited size, it supports an amazing array of flora and fauna considered to be of national and global importance.

Even though most of the vegetation is made up of grassland there is small selection of little trees such as sal forest and sal savannah, which take part between the high point of the forest to the lowlands of the grassy areas. It is the annual fires and floods that manage and keep the vegetation from spreading and destroying the other more delicate species living within this ecosystem. However, an experimental grassland management system has begun to take place and will be needed in the future to assist in the natural management of the vicinity. It has proved to be quite effective in the preservation of the rare swamp deer habitat. Within the Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve are some particularly famous wetlands such as: Sikari Tal, Tarapunal, Rani Tal and Kaliktch.

One of the major problems occurring between man and nature is their incapability to live in harmony, thus conflicts have begun to occur between the Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve and the local people who come to reside along the outskirts of the reserve. Many of the issues are related to livestock devastation, crop damage and the loss of life because of some of larger co-inhabitants such as the wild elephant, blue bull, tiger, leopard, chital, hog deer and wild boar that reside within the Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve.

Museum in Nepal

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Museums - Discover Nepal's Historical Heritage

Nepal is a very interesting country with a long of history. As the center of the Buddhist faith and the home of Mount Everest, this country has become a sort of pilgrimage point for many people around the world. But just what exactly is the history of Nepal? What is the origin of the many interesting family groups that can be found in this beautiful country? What sort of culture have they enjoyed over the centuries and what sort of handicrafts have they employed in their day-to-day lives? These are the sorts of questions that you can expect to find answers to at the many excellent museums in Nepal.

There quite a large number of Nepali museums so you might find yourself struggling to decide which ones you want to visit and which ones you’d rather give a miss. The National Museum of Nepal is definitely not one to be missed. In fact, this is probably one of the best places to start since this government-sponsored museum will give you the most information about the history and culture of Nepal. The Natural History Museum, on the other hand, will give you a decidedly different look at the progress of the people of Nepal. The National Woodworking Museum and the Bronze and Brass Museum are focused mainly on the development and adaptation of these forms of crafts over the years. Both are very interesting to see since both skills have been lavishly employed in many of the temples and palaces in Nepal over the years.

The Hanumandhoka Palace Complex is a great place to go if you would like greater insight into the lives of the rich and famous in Nepal. This magnificent series of buildings have a strong cultural heritage and strong sense of tradition that can be explored as you make your way through the buildings. Also worth considering are the Patan Museum, the Tribhuvan Museum, the Pajarimath Museum and the Kapilvastu Museum. Each has its own individual approach to a particular subject matter and this keeps museum visits entertaining. Of course there are quite a few more great museums which are not even mentioned here, so take a look at the ones we feature to get a better idea of what each museum offers.

1) Hanuman Dhoka Palace Complex

Upon entering the Hanuman Dhoka Palace Complex you will be greeted by a statue of Hanuman which was erected in 1672. He acts as the guardian of the palace and visitors assist in keeping his face painted red. Lord Narasimha can also be seen near the entrance and is a fascinating sight. The statue, which depicts Narasimha as half lion and half man, is defeating Hiranyakasipu, a known demon. It makes you wonder, “what is waiting up ahead?”

The Hanuman Dhoka Palace Complex, or Durbar Square, was once home to the kings of Nepal. The last Royal Family left the complex in the year 1886. The Royal Families would, in the future, be housed in the Narayan Hitti Palace. But the Hanuman Dhoka Palace Complex continued to play a significant role in ceremonies and especially in coronations. Here, in the Durbar Square, visitors will be able to visit a variety of temples and three different museums.

Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is a place where culture, heritage and history come together. The temples that are located in the Hanuman Dhoka Palace Complex include the legendary Taleju Temple, which was constructed between the 12th and 18th centuries. In ancient times it was the throne of all the Malla Kings of Kathmandu. Of course the Hanuman Dhoka Palace can also be viewed, and one of the main attractions continues to be the Temple of Kumari. It is a breathtaking building, complete with balconies and beautifully carved windows. Visitors will be able to photograph theLiving Goddess-Kumari as she waves at passersby from her window.

Museum enthusiasts will be astonished at the wonderful exhibits that await behind the doors of the Tribhuvian Museum and the Numismatic Museum, both of which are situated in the Hanumandhoka Palace Complex. The Sundari Chowk and Mohan Chowk make up the most historical wings of the palace building; unfortunately this section is not open to the public. Visitors are therefore advised to visit the eastern wing, which was also constructed during the 16th century, and boasts no less than ten courtyards.

The temples, museums, courtyards and historical statues are the attractions to the Hanumandhoka Palace Complex, but it is the architectural wonders, historical importance and fascination with the past that keeps visitors enthralled for hours. It is a combination of royalty, nobility, religion and belief. This is where the past greets the present and instills in all the importance of history, tradition and culture.

2) Mahendra Museum - Legacy of a King

Together with the Tribhuvan Museum and the Birendra Museum, the Mahendra Museumis located in the Hanuman Dhoka Palace. Here visitors will be able to marvel at the breathtaking architecture and explore the lives of three of Nepal’s Kings. Even though King Mahendra’s father, King Tribhuvan, is remembered for his valiant fight for democracy, Mahendra would leave behind a legacy far different then that of his predecessor.

King Mahendra was born on 11 June 1920, son of the respected and loved, King Tribhuvan. The King believed in democracy, in giving each citizen a voice and bringing an end to the rule of the ruthless Rana family. Fighting for these beliefs put the life of the King and his family in grave danger. But after having to flee his home, international and local pressure finally brought the Rana dynasty to its knees. King Tribhuvan returned to the thrown and successfully helped Nepal through the change in parliament and democratic freedom. In 1955, King Tribhuvan passed away and King Mahendra rose to power. Instead of continuing the legacy his father had left behind, the new King went about destroying the democratic parliament. By the year 1960, all opposing political parties were banned in Nepal. King Mahendra’s rule came to an end with his death, on 31 January 1972. He is a King that evokes mixed emotions, yet his poetry and literary genius is remembered with fondness and admiration.

The Museum of King Mahendra exhibits recreations of his office chamber and the cabinet room, where he made his decisions and ruled the country. Amongst his personal items and belongings that are on display, visitors will be able to view his beautiful collection of coins and his stamp collection. His poetry and manuscripts can also be seen, together with handwritten notes and the medals he received during his reign. Other items include fascinating decorations and a variety of gifts that were given to him.

This dedicational museum of King Mahendra, highlights the contrast in personality of the King. His creative and poetic side, opposed to the aggressive King that ruled Nepal. The Mahendra Museum takes visitors on a journey through the life of King Mahendra, a descended of a long line of rulers, and predecessor of those to come.

3) National Museum Of Nepal

The National Museum of Nepalstarted as a museum for weapons and ammunition in the year 1928. Its original name was “Chhauni Silkhana” which, when directly translated, means: “The Stone House of Arms and Ammunitions.” Fortunately the potential and importance of the museum was noted and the museum, which was once only open to guests, became available to the public. In 1967 the museum was renamed to the National Museum of Nepal (Rashtriya Sangrahalaya).

Being located in Kathmandu, it has become a popular attraction to locals wanting to relive their history, and to visitors who are interested in Nepals’ past. Nepal’s National Museum is divided into three main historical collections, each of which are housed in a separate building. One of the collections concentrates on historical, religious art which has been exquisitely preserved and attracts thousands of visitors each year. Here breathtaking paintings, that date to the 18th and 19th century, adorn the walls. These are complimented by beautiful wood carvings from the same time period. Guests to Nepal’s National Museum will be astonished at the skill and detail used by craftsmen to complete their metal work. Sculptures from the 13th century and lovely terra-cottas demand the admiration of all that look upon them.

In the year 1995 the Japanese Government donated funds to the National Museum of Nepal to host an exhibit that consists of Buddhist Religious Art. This exhibit educates the public about the Buddhist religion through amazing pieces of art, and assists in the research of Buddhism and the preservation of its associated artifacts.

But it is definitely the arms and ammunitions exhibit that draws the most attention. Here visitors are able to get a unique insight into the weaponry of Nepal through the ages. The greatest attraction in this division is the leather cannon. It originates from the historical Tibetan war period which took place in 1792. Many of the firearms that are in the collection were made by local Nepalis, and this adds a touch of nostalgia to the exhibit.

The National Museum of Nepal has a wide variety of items and artifacts. In addition to those already mentioned, visitors can look forward to the doll collection, second century BC coins, stuffed animals and relics from the devastating 1934 earthquake. It is easy to understand why this museum has become so important to Nepal - it holds the country’s entire history under one roof.

4) Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum of Nepal is located near the Swayambhunath Hill and has a stable partnership with the Institute of Science and Technology. Together, they coordinate projects and programs to aid in the research and preservation of rare and threatened fauna and flora species. Since the opening of theNatural History Museum, the institute’s popularity has increased over the years solidifying its importance amongst the museums of Nepal.

Many scientists around the world have a great fascination with the fauna and flora of Nepal. Because Nepal has an extremely varied landscape with high altitudes and diverse vegetation, it can be hard to believe that Nepal would have many flowering plants. If that is what you think, you would be wrong. The small country of Nepal has approximately half the amount of flowering plants that would be found in other countries - such as the United States of America. This alone makes Nepal extremely interesting to botanists. This amazing diversity can be seen in the exhibition hall of the Natural History Museum which boasts with more than 9 000 plant specimens, both non-flowering and flowering.

Nature does not only consist of plants, trees and flowers, but animals, insects and other earthly creatures. The Natural History Museum of Nepal therefore offers visitors a spectacular collection of approximately 40 000 invertebrates and vertebrates. Interesting fossils, prehistoric shells, butterfly collections, snakes and a 100 skeletal remains are also on display. For those who are interested in seeing skeletons that have not lost their outer layers, the Nepal Natural History Museum has many stuffed crocodiles, birds and various animals in their exhibits.

For students, researchers, scholars and botanists, the Nepal Natural History Museum is the answer to all their questions. The museum is able to educate the public, and others who are interested, in the life cycles of birds, animals and plants that are able to survive at high altitudes. The Institute of Science and Technology and the Natural History Museum work together to record the plants and creatures found naturally in Nepal. They also research better ways to conserve and protect this unique natural landscape. Nepal is a land of wonder because of its fauna and flora, and the Natural History Museum hopes to educate people to respect and protect their beautiful natural surroundings.

5) The Tribhuvan Museum

King Tribhuvan was a highly respected and loved member of the Nepali community. He fought for democracy and equality - efforts for which he is fondly remembered. The Tribhuvan Museum pays tribute to this amazing leader and many Nepalese come here to pay homage to the memory of this noble king and to educate newer generations about his valiant and brave life.

The King of Nepal, King Tribhuvan, was born in Kathmandu on 30 June 1906. His mother was the regent, as he became king at the tender age of 5. Tribhuvan was officially crowned in the year 1913, but the Royal Family did not rule Nepal. The Rana family was in control of the country and they often made decisions that had a negative impact of the country. It is known that during World War I, the Rana prime minister literally held a gun to the head of King Tribhuvan’s mother in an effort to force him into supporting their war efforts. Blackmail was the only method the Rana’s could use to have the King agree to their requests.

Fortunately the public became increasingly unhappy with the Rana’s rule and they supported the return of the country’s power to the monarch. By the 1930’s the King was of age to rule Nepal. It was only due to the outbreak of World War II that the Rana’s spared the king's life. They did this on the request of the British who wanted Nepal backing them in the war. But after the war ended and Britain moved out of India, the King and his family fled to India to escape the wrath of the disposed Rana family. Through pressure from the public and from international countries, the Rana’s were forced to admit defeat and conform to the kings’ dream of democracy. King Tribhuvan took charge of the country’s transition until his untimely death due to illness in 1955.

The Tribhuvan Memorial Museum is situated in the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, which is located in the Durbar Square. It showcases the entire history of the King’s life, his victories, his losses and the realization of his dreams. An extremely rare collection of personal items and photographs of the King and the entire Royal Family are on display in the Tribhuvan Memorial Museum. Newspaper clippings telling the story of his final victory over the Ranas and the spectacular paintings of King Tribhuvan and the kings that followed are all exhibited here. The Tribhuvan Museum is a worthy tribute to this great man, a King who won back his throne and freed the people of Nepal.

6) The Bronze and Brass Museum in Nepal

Standing opposite the National Woodworking Museum of Nepal, which lies within the Pujari Math in Tachapal Tole in Bhaktapur, lies the beautiful Bronze and Brass Museum. This fine Nepali museum is housed within an ancient building, dating back to the 15th century.

When you stroll past the vast collection of domestic and ceremonial metal ware at the Bronze and Brass Museum of Nepal, having already just been surprised by the many beautiful mysteries in the National woodworking Museum, you may tend to feel you’re in a distinctly different era. On exhibition there are many everyday items belonging to ordinary people in Nepal which have been restored to mint condition. Items that can be seen on display at the Bronze and Brass Museum are the Kalash or ritual jars, spittoons, ordinary lamps and those used specifically for rituals, water pots, medieval utensils, giant containers and hookahs, or as its commonly known in the western world ‘a hubbly bubbly’.

The elaborate metal ink-pot has a significant history and speaks of kings in general who took a keen interest in learning and writing and this can be found in many artifacts. One such king, though, is said to have learned over seventeen languages to which he wrote many verses or so legend tells. Not much is far from what we see around us today and makes you realize that with time all we have done is refine what has been in existence for centuries.

The Bronze and Brass Museum of Bhaktapur is open on most days from about 10:15 am to around about 4:45 pm, however, it is closed on a Tuesday and on public holidays, where the time is used for cleaning, maintenance and any repair work that may be required. The entrance fee is Rs. 5 with a charge of Rs. 10 for any cameras brought in. Indeed, if you enjoy looking at exquisite works of art and practical items from the past, then the Bronze and Brass Museum of Nepal is the ideal attraction for you. Combine this with a tour of the nearby Woodworking Museum and you will have a day filled with discovery.

7) Much to Discover in the National Woodworking Museum

The ancient Pujari Math building was built during the 15th century by the Malla King known as ‘Yaksha Malla’ and it is only till recently that this intricate building was restored to its former glory. Nonetheless, like in most cases, the building is said to have been the home of a Hindu priest. This ancient structure, however, houses one of the most well known National Woodworking Museums. It is here that you will find within these walls the beautiful Newar woodcarvings which include the famous Peacock window. The Nepali Museum is located just across from the Tachapal Tole, or as it’s commonly known in English ‘Dattatreya Square’, in Bhaktapur, Nepal.

Interestingly, there is an astounding amount of mural paintings that adorn the walls - each of a different deity, such as Dattatreya, Shiva-Parbati and Bishnu. What makes the National Woodworking Museum of Nepal of such great interest to those visiting from afar or locally is its amazing collection of valuable wood carvings. This of course does not stop inside but extends to the exterior of this historic building where you can see an amazing array of architectural detail. A good example of the interior wood work's finer points is that of a small room located within the museum. Here you will notice 11 roof struts that were formerly from an ancient 15th century temple. If you take a closer look, you will notice the way it has been carved and the detail given to the linking of one strut to the other.

As you walk through the building, characterized by ‘quiet seriousness’, you hardly expect to find anything out of the ordinary, however, should you come across a ladder along your travels within the National Woodworking Museum take a peek up into the attic and you’ll be surprised to find a mass of cartoon-like figures depicting Lord Jagannath and one of his many siblings. In a glass case you will find a graceful effigy of a dancing Nartaki Devi wearing a quizzical look upon her face. Just a little way away you will notice another case, this time you will find a three foot tall highly wrought carving of Buddha being tempted by the ever deceiving Mara.

The museum is open on most days from 10:15 am to around about 4:45 pm, however, on a Friday it will close at 2:45pm. On a Tuesday and ton any public holidays throughout the year the museum comes to a close for maintenance and a general check-up. The cost to enter is not badly priced at Rs. 5 though there is an extra cost of Rs. 10 should you wish to bring in your camera. As always good research into the country your visiting, customs and places of interest will help not to spring any surprises especially if you have to watch your holiday budget.

8) Pujarimath Museum

The Pujarimath Museum or 'Pujari Math', as it is more commonly called, was built by Yaksha Malla, a King in the fifteenth century. Yaksha Malla establish many temples and palaces during his lifetime, including the fortress palace of Bhaktapur.

The restored building is a beauty in itself with exquisitely carved lattices and Peacock windows made out of wood. This is just one aspect of the building, but you could stand there for hours looking at the different features and structures that make up this beautiful building. The Pujarimath Museum is a fine example of what the Newar artisans, in Kathmandu, were capable of building and designing out of wood. The Newar can truly be considered master wood workers.

The Newar are an indigenous Nepalese group that is made up of people who all speak Nepal Bhasa. Their language is the only unifying factor of the Newar apart from that the group is made up of varying races, religions, ethnicity and so on. The Nepal Bhasa language contains Austro-Asiatic phrases and words and is of Tibeto-Burman origin. The Newar are one of the biggest ethnic groups in Nepal and over eight hundred thousand Nepalese speak the Newari languages.

The Kathmandu Valley, where the Pujarimath Museum is situated, is an exhibition of Buddhist and Hindu shrines, temples and artwork all within itself. You don't need to walk far before you come across one of these sites - it really is amazing to experience. The Nepalese are a nation known for their vibrant culture made up of many traditions and festivals. If you are visiting Nepal during one of their many festivals then you must definitely make an opportunity to go watch, even if it's not possible to get involved.

Patan is another area that you must go visit, which neighbors Kathmandu. Patan is well known for its wooden and bronze carvings and also has a lot of sights to go visit. Bhaktapur or Bhadgoan are on the other side of the Kathmandu valley and are wonderful examples of how the local Nepalese people live. Kathmandu and Patan have gone through a lot of changes over the years but Bhaktapur was left to continue as it always has.

9) Patan Museum's Intriguing Collection

The Patan Museum can be found located within the beautiful Patan Durbar Square at Keshav Narayan Chowk's residential palace. To get to the museum you first have to enter the Royal Palace grounds, which is where you will find the richly decorated palace complex of Keshav Narayan Chowk. These palaces, situated in the Kathmandu Valley, have for centuries been home to the Malla kings who have always inhabited this region for centuries. The royal grounds have housed the semi-gilded Patan Museum ever since it was first formed in 1734.

Some of the exhibits displayed at the museum are extremely old and go back to the Lichhavi era, which dates back to the eleventh century. The Patan Museum's main collection consists of sacred art pieces and sculptures that have been completed by traditional Nepalese artists. The Museum has over 1,500 objects in its national sacred art collection - a prized possession - but visitors will only have the chance to view two hundred out of all of them. The two hundred that are on permanent display have been carefully chosen so that visitors are given the best examples of artwork that represents the sacred art collection.

This collection is really stunning and is mainly made up of bronze and copper casts. The copper casts displayed at the museum are formed using a process called repousse. 'Repousse' is when the artist uses a hammer to raise the copper metal to form decorations from within. These metal pieces represent both Buddhist and Hindu cultural history using iconology. Iconology is a traditional art form where figures of people are produced not just for their outer beauty but also for what cannot be seen. The sculpture has an enormous amount of symbolic meaning, which tells the person viewing it so much more than what they can just see.

The Patan Museum went through a needed restoration process supported by His Majesty's Government of Nepal. The building had experienced many bad alterations and due to the lack of care and maintenance over the years it was deemed necessary. Some parts of the building were redone and reconstructed to their original form, while other sections of the museum were completely redone. The facilities inside the building were also upgraded and it was finally opened again in 1997. The Patan Museum is definitely worth a visit.

10) Kapilvastu Museum in Lumbini

There is an array of magnificent museums situated all over the beautiful country of Nepal, each with their own beauty and distinction. In the case of theKapilvastu Museum diversity also belongs within the Nepali museum, with its abundance of past history reserved in its mass collection of artifacts.

The Museum is located approximately 26km away from the little town of Lumbini in Tilaruakot, Nepal. It is at Kapilvastu Museum that you will also find the archaeological ruins of the once gracious Tilaurakot Palace complex, renowned because of its direct association to the original birthplace and home of ‘Lord Buddha’. Interestingly as Buddha was growing many knew him as the Shakya dynasty prince until he renounced his identity just 29 years after his birth so as to search out enlightenment. However, it must be noted that no clear evidence has ever been unearthed to confirm these details.

The legend carries on and speaks of the garden of ‘Lumbini’ and is mentioned in different parts of the early scriptures with titles like: Lumbini Canana, Lumbini Upavana, Lumbini Vatica and Lumbini Cittalavana and is situated along the banks of the river Telar on the extreme edge of the magnificent Sakya Kingdom of Kapilvastu.

The legend goes on to speak of the queen of the Sakya King Sudhodhana of Kapilvastu, Maya Devi, who whilst heavily pregnant began to slowly make her journey to her maternal home in Devadaha. It was along this way that she happened to come across the little town of Lumbini. It was dark with a full moon, the month was called Vaisakha, about 623 years before the birth of Christ. It was on this particular occasion that she took to dipping her heavily pregnant body into the Sakya Puskarini, thereafter she proceeded to make her way north. Then suddenly the Queen went into labor forcing her to grab hold of a branch on the Sala tree thus Queen Maya Devi finally gave birth to ‘Lord Buddha’.

Museums have always fascinated people, because for a short period of time you’re whisked away to a new world filled with legends past down from one family to another, daily hardships and past joys. In some cases you will find evidence dating from the seventh century B.C. all the way to the fourth century AD. Its then that it begins to dawn on you that although times have changed, people were still like you and me, the difference is they lived thousands of years ago. All of this can be found here in the Kapilvastu Museum. Amongst all the Nepali museum's artifacts you will find intriguing collections of coins, toys, ornaments and pottery, each with a tale to tell. The most special of all the collections is the matchless assortment of jewelry pieces, most in pristine condition.

The Kapilvastu Museum is open every day except on a Thursday and any government holidays throughout the year.

Five development region of the Nepal

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1) Eastern (Purwanchal) Region

The fourteen administrative zones of Nepal are split between five development regions, one of which is the Eastern (Purwanchal) Region. The town of Dhankuta is the capital of the Eastern Region, as well as the capital of the Dhankuta District. The area around the town is primarily used for agriculture, with small rural villages scattered throughout the region. Dhankuta is located on the North-South Koshi Highway and serves as an important commercial and trading center for the Eastern Region of Nepal.

Located in the Koshi Zone of the Eastern Region, the city of Biratnagar is Nepal's second largest city, offering quite a number of attractions that tourists find appealing. Biratnagar is the gateway to the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, a peaceful haven for Nepal’s flora and fauna and a prime bird-watching destination that is visited by birding enthusiasts from far and wide. Also near Biratnagar is the Hindu pilgrimage site of Baraha Kshetra drawing Hindu devotees to worship.

Trekking is a wonderful way to enjoy the natural treasures and scenic beauty of Nepal and there are many trekking routes to choose from in the Eastern Region. Whichever way you choose to travel you are sure to find many interesting places when exploring the Eastern Region (Purwanchal) of Nepal.

2)Central (Madhyamanchal) Region

As one of the five development regions of Nepal, the Central (Madhyamanchal) Region incorporates the city of Kathmandu, which is the capital of both the region and the country.Kathmandu, and the beautiful Kathmandu Valley are among Nepal's most popular tourist destinations, with many tours andtrekking routes into the surrounding area starting from the city. Kathmandu is also an important commercial center and a sacred place for pilgrims who travel from far and wide to attend various religious festivals and to worship at its many temples.

Located in the Chitwan Valley of the Central Region of Nepal, the vibrant city of Bharatpur has a number of attractions that are enjoyed by local and international visitors, including the renowned Chitwan National Park and Bish Hazar Lake. Historic and cultural attractions include the Diyalo Bangala Palace and Kasrra Palace, as well as the Bageshwori, Kalika and Ganeshthan Temples. Referred to as the 'City of Culture' and 'Nepal's Cultural Gem', the city of Bhaktapur incorporated the Durbar Square, an area incorporating palaces, monasteries and temples and offering a panoramic view of theHimalaya Mountains.

The city of Bhairawa (also known as Siddharthanagar) in the south of the Central Region is the gateway to Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha and an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. Lalitpur is an ancient city located south-east of Kathmandu, which abounds with Hindu temples and Buddhist monuments, as well as museums offering insight into Nepal's two most predominant religions – all well worth visiting.

Nagarkot offers visitors the most spectacular views of the Kathmandu Valley, Mount Everest and the Indrawati River Valley, and is a popular trekking destination. With all motorized traffic banned from the city center, Janakpur is a pleasure to explore, and has such a strong Indian influence that visitors may be forgiven for thinking they were in India and not Nepal.

Other towns and cities in the Central Region (Madhyamanchal) of Nepal include Khokana, Hetauda, Harisiddhi, Godavari, Daman, Panauti, Sankhu and Thankot. Each town, city and village in Nepal has a charm of its own, which is very evident in the Central Region (Madhyamanchal). They do however share a common thread in their appreciation for their historic, cultural and spiritual heritage as displayed through their many monuments, temples and museums.

3)Western (Pashchimanchal) Region

With its headquarters in the city of Pokhara, the Western (Pashchimanchal) Region is one of Nepal's five development regions, and despite its name, it actually lies in the middle of the country with the Mid-Western and Far-Western Regions to the north-west and the Central and Eastern Regions to the south-east. The city of Pokhara lies in the picturesque Pokhara Valley, an extension of the Seti Gandaki valley. The Western Region is known for its impressive geographical features, with mountains rising up dramatically to great heights, such as the Annapurna, Manaslu and Dhaulagiri ranges which all have peaks over 8,000 meters in height.

Pokhara receives a large number of tourists each year, many of whom are on their way to climb nearby mountains, or enjoy the spectacular trekking routes in the Western Region ofNepal. Other attractions in the area including the Mahendra, Gupteswor and Bat Caves, the Phewa Tal (Phewa Lake) and the awe-inspiring Devi's Falls, where water from the lake rushes over a cliff, disappearing into a seemingly bottomless hole.

The town of Tansen is also a popular holiday destination, offering breath-taking views of the Himalayas and the Terai plains, as well as many historical and cultural attractions.Trekking is an excellent way to enjoy the beauty of the Western Region of Nepal andTansen serves as a base for trekking enthusiasts to explore the region by means of routes designed to showcase the beauty of the area, such as the route that runs along the Kali Gandaki River.

Travelers who have visited Nepal will agree that the scenery is beyond description, and even the best photograph can’t capture its true beauty. For the experience of a lifetime, visit any of the five regions of fascinating Nepal.

4) Mid Western (Madhya Pashchimanchal) Region

Located between the Western and Far Western regions of Nepal, the Mid Western (Madhya Pashchimanchal) Region is one of the country's five Development Regions and has the city of Birendranagar as its headquarters. Birendranagar, which was named in honor of the late King Birendra, lies in the beautiful Surkhet Valley of the Mid Western Region and serves as the commercial center for surrounding rural villages and towns.

Birendranagar has a number ofattractions for visitors to view and explore. There is a beautiful clock tower in Birendranagar which was erected as a joint effort between Nepal and Japan. There is also a park with fountains and a lake set in cultivated gardens, creating a mini-oasis in the bustling city for locals and visitors to enjoy. A domestic airport located at Birendranagar provides a convenient method of transport to the city from other parts of Nepal. The Dauit Bajai Hindu Temple in the city draws devotees from near and far to worship. The temple has been declared a national heritage site of Nepal, and as such also attracts tourists. Outside the city is the 12th century Hindu Buddhist temple of Kakre Bihar, set in exquisitely beautiful mountainous territory, the temple contains bronze statues of Hindu gods and goddesses as well as Buddha.

Other major towns located in the Mid Western Region of Nepal include Chinchu, Babiyachour, Tribhuvannagar (also known as Ghorahi) and Nepalgunj. Nepaljunj is located near the southern border of Nepal and is a convenient stop-over point on the way to India. It is also a major transportation and commercial hub for many of the Mid Western Region towns.

Activities in the Madhya Pashchimanchal Region include white water rafting on the Karnali River, trekking, mountain climbing, rock climbing and various tours which include visits to rural villages, temples, and other places of interest in the various towns.

5) Far Western (Sudur Pashchimanchal) Region

The Far Western (Sudur Pashchimanchal) Region is one of the five development regions ofNepal, and as the name would suggest the region is to the extreme west of the country. The administrative headquarters for the region is located in the city ofDipayal, also known as Dipayal Silgadhi, which is in the Doti District of the Far Western Region's Seti Zone.

The Far Western Region of Nepalis sometimes referred to as the Doti region, a word which some believe originated from 'Dovati' meaning the land between two rivers, while others are of the opinion that it originated from the Hindu god Dev, and aatavi, meaning the place of re-creation. While it may not be clear as to the origin of the name, there is no denying that the area has an ancient and fascinating history, going back to the 13th century when Niranjan Malldeo founded the Doti Kingdom following the fall of Karyuris Kingdom. Dotiyali is still spoken in the Far Western Region, and is considered to be a Nepali Dialect.

A popular tourist destination in the Far Western Region is the town of Mahendranagar, located in the Kanchanpur district in the Mahakali Zone of Nepal. It is the eighth largest city of the country - the other seven being (in order), Kathmandu, Pokhara, Lalitpur, Biratnagar, Dharan, Birganj and Bharatpur – and is situated five kilometers east of the Indian border.Mahendranagar is the main commercial center of its zone, providing education and health care services, as well as employment opportunities to inhabitants of the region.

The Far Western (Sudur Pashchimanchal) Region incorporates the Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, home to one of the largest herds of golden swamp deer, or barasingha, which are considered to be endangered. Other animals that visitors to the Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve may come across include elephant, blue bull, leopard, tiger, hog deer and wild boar.

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Introduction

Nepal is the small country that is situated in between two country. i.e in north it has boundary with china and in three direction east, west and south with india. Nepal is rich in natural resources. Nepal is second richest country in the water resources. Nepal is small country but loved by all the people and it is beautiful too. yearly more million visitor visit the Nepal. Today nepal has been the final distination of the more visitor. Nepal is known as the gift of the god. It is because nepal is rich in natural resource that has made the nepal the more beautiful and help to attract the visitor.Nepal has cover the area about 1,47,848. It covers about the 0.03% of the world and 0.3% of the Asia.Nepal is a landlocked country in the Himalayas, the highest mountain range in the world.

Nepal has three distinct geographical zones- low land hills, mountains, valleys and the Great Himalayan Range- with subtropical to alpine-arctic temperatures and wide variations in vegetation and animal life.Most people in Nepal are farmers. They grow grain, fruit, and other crops in the low lands, where temperatures are the warmest. Rice and corn grow in terraced, or stair like fields in the cooler hilly regions. Potatoes and barley are the staple, or chief, crops at higher altitudes where temperatures are the coolest. The Nepalese raise goat, cattle and yaks for dairy products. Meat is eaten mostly on special occasions. Religious rules affect, which meat people in Nepal eat. Hindus, who make up almost 70 per cent of the population, do not eat beef. Islam does not allow its followers, Muslims, to eat pork. The Buddhist religion prohibits the killing of any animals but allows the eating of meat.A typical family meal in Nepal might include daal bhat (rice with lentil gravy) or chapatti (flat bread), steamed vegetables, and achaaar (a paste of spiced pickled fruits). About 90 percent of Nepalese people live in rural areas. They often lack electricity for refrigerators, so they rely on cereals such as grain, lentils, and beans.People take their traditions and the kinds of food they eat with them when they move from one place to another. You might recognize example when you look at your classmate’s special family foods or at specialty restaurants in your community.

Nepal is also known as the garden of the four caste and 36 sub caste. This named is given to the Nepal mother by the great king Prithivi Narayan Shah. It is because in Nepal there are people of the different caste and sub caste. Like in garden different type of the flower are grown. All flowers help to increase the popularity of the garden. The flowers in the garden also never fight. Same as that Nepalese having diversity in the caste and sub caste also living together by sharing love and joy. Therefore Nepal is said the garden of the four caste and 36 sub caste.

The picture contain the map of the Nepal as well as it shows it's wonder and pride.