LUMBINI – BIRTHPLACE OF LORD BUDDHA
Buddha was born at Lumbini in southern Nepal on full moon day in 623 B.C. The importance of Lumbini is testified by the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka who visited Lumbini in order to pay homage to the great Master and erected a pillar in 249 B.C. to indicate the birthplace of Buddha. Near the Ashokan pillar is the newly renovated Mayadevi Temple which houses the Nativity sculpture depicting the birth scene of the Buddha. The temple also houses The Marker Stone discovered in 1996 A.D. which depicts the exact spot where the Buddha was born is now kept in bulletproof glass in the Mayadevi Temple.
The Mayadevi Temple was renovated in 2003 on the 2547th auspicious birth anniversary of the Buddha and houses ruins of the early period dating back from 3rd century B.C. to the 7th century A.D. Near the temple is situated the Puskarni pond where Queen Mayadevi – Buddha’s mother - had given the first purificatory bath to the infant Buddha.
In 1986, exacavations by General Khadka Shumsher Rana of Nepal and renowed archeologist Dr. A Fuhrer shed light on various aspects of the life of Buddha. In 1898, the British government deputed P.C. Mukherjee who confirmed the exact location of Aurorakot as the birth place of Kanakmuni Buddha and Gotihawa as the native place of Kakruchhanda Buddha who existed before the Shakyamuni Buddha and Lumbini as birthplace of Shakyamuni Buddha. He also claimed Devdaha to be the maternal home of Buddha and Tilaurakot to be the exact site of Kapilvastu – the ancient capital of the Shakya Kingdom.
Shortly after the Buddha attained enlightenment at the age of 36, he delivered his first sermon, in which he laid out the essential framework upon which all his later teachings were based. This framework consists of the Four Noble Truths and the Eight fold path, which identifies the sources of sufferings and the path towards the cessation of sufferings and the attainment of Salvation.
In order to develop Lumbini as a pilgrimage center and a fountain of World Peace, Prof. Kenzo Tange of Japan was assigned to create the Lumbini Master plan by UN which was jointly approved by the Government of Nepal and UN in 1978. The Master Plan includes canals, garden, library, museum, monastic zones and areas for amenities. Lumbini Development Trust is responsible for the overall development of Lumbini. Listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in December 1997, Lumbini is being developed with international support. There are different Vihars and Monastries constructed by different countries like Korea, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Japan, Germany, France, Austria, India, Srilanka, China and Nepal,
General Information
Access: From Kathmandu, fly to Gautam Buddha Airport in Bhairahawa (30 minutes) and then drive (22km) to Lumbini, Overland from Kathmandu to Bhairahawa is 300 km (9hours).
Getting around: There are manual three – wheelers to get around the Lumbini complex.
Climate : Tempreture 40 degree Celsius maximum, 7 degree minimum. The rainy seson lasts June – September.
Additional Info: Lumbini Development Trust, Lumbini; Tel +977-71-580189, 580200, fax: 580181. Kathmandu Office: Bhirkutimandap, Tel:+977-1-4268285, 4268494, URL: www.lumbinitrust.org, email: ldt@hons.com.np
Accommodation : Lumbini offers good hotels that are equipped with modern amenities. Visitors can also stay in Lumbini or the nearby town of Bhairahawa.
Attraction: Lumbini tour, Buddhist circuit tour, Village tour, Monastery tour, Meditation, Archaelogical tour, Crane Sanctuary and Wet- land tour. Great celebration takes places during Buddha Purnima ( April-May).
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Friday, April 22, 2011
mounteverest
PASHUPATINATH
Situated 5 km east of Kathmandu city center, Pashupati literally means “Lord of Animals” and is considered to be the patron of Nepal. Pashupatinath is regarded as one of the holiest sites for Hindus all over the world.
Pashupatinath temple is a pagoda style two-tiered golden roof with exquisitely carved four silver doors containing in its sanctum
a phallic idol with four faces facing each direction and the other fifth one is looking up toward the zenith. A temple dedicated to Shiva was constructed at the present site by Licchavi King Supushpa Verma according to an ancient chronicle. However the present temple is claimed to have been built by King Bhupalendra Malla in 1697 A.D. Legend has it that a cow would frequently escape from its herds and offer milk on a Jyotirlinga ( phallic symbol of Shiva ) which denotes the point where the temple stands today. It is said that a certain cowherd much to his surprise found the self- generated Jyotirlinga ( phallic symbol of shiva) when he dug the spot where the cow would give milk. The spot immediately became the center of worship that been continued till today.
Legend also mentions that the Pandavas after the great Mahabharata battle were told that only by sighting Shiva would they be absolved of their sins and it was at this very spot that they saw the Lord. Hence, this most scared abode of Shiva, who is the God of the gods – Mahadeva – merits a visit by all Hindus, at least once in a lifetime, to be truly blessed and cleansed. It is believed that pilgrimage to the four dhams like Dwarika, Kedar, Rameshwor and Jaganath of India becomes meaningful only after a final darshan of Pashupatinath and by taking a holy dip in the Bagmati River and conducting a proper puja. There are temples of other Hindu deities in Pashupati premises like Bhairavnath, Vasuki nag, Parbati temple, Ram mandir,Vishwo rup,Goraknath, Kirateshwor temple and dozens of temples dedicated to different gods and goddesses.
A considerable part of the temple vicinity is converted to rest and prayer areas. Behind the temple on the banks of Bagmati is a crematorium for Hindus. It is the wish of every Hindu to be cremated on the bank of the Bagmati river near the temple. AT the other end of the Pashupatinath Temple area is the temple of Guheshwori dedicated to Shiva’s consort Parvati also known as Satidevi.There is also a deer park at the back of the temple across the Bagmati river. It is also interesting to watch the monkeys roam in and around the temple freely. One may also observe Sahus smeared with ashes and dressed in lion- cloths and the Hindus Brahmins offering Tika and blessing to the visitors. Pashupatinath attracts thousands of pilgrims on spring festival Maha Shivaratri ( Feb- March), the day dedicated to Shiva, Hari Talika/ Teej ( Aug- Sept.), Janai Purnima ( July-August) and all Mondays of the month of Shrawan (July-Aug).
In October 1979 Pashupati area was declared as the World Heritage Site by UNESCO and the temple is being managed by Pashupati Area Development Trust. The temple activities can be observed from the back of the temple.
SWAYAMBHUNATH
Located on a lovely little hillock, Swayambhunath Stupa lies about 4 km west of central Kathmandu. There are 360 steps leading all the way to the top commanding a magnificent view to the top commanding a magnificent view of Kathmandu valley and the brath-taking panoram of the snow-clad Himalaya range. The tradition in the Stupa follows the Vajrayana form of Buddhism which is a trantric variation of the Mahayana Buddhism ( the great vehicle). The stupa seem to have been constructed during the Licchavi Period. Religious and literally sources give numerous accounts of the establishment and the patronage of the Swayambhunath premises. It is also interesting to note that the stupa went a series of renovation during the Malla period in the medieval times with donations made by merchants, monks, pilgrims.and Buddhist followers.
As the ancient legend goes Kathmandu valley was a lake long time ago. Right in the center of this lake was a full blown lotus with the divine light atop. When Maha Manjushri a saint from China heard about this he came all the way from China to the valley. He cut through the southern hill of the valley with his divine sword. The cleft made by the sword immediately drained the entire lake water making the valley floor ready of habitation. Hundreds of votive shrines and other historical monuments built in and around this stupa speak a lot about the significance and antiquity of this famed stupa. The Stupa of Swayambhunath stands on a typically stylized lotus mandala base. The hemispherical part of the chaitya is made of brick and stone and on top of the hemispherical part lies the hermika which carries the eyes of Vairochana watching in all the directions and believed to have been painted in the Malla period. The stupa is also laden with the 13 gold plated spires which symbolizes the 13 stages to salvation. The spire is crowded by a golden umbrella supported by a pole from within the center. Devotees pour lime down the chaitya to cure illness of family members.
Harati Temple: It is two- tiered pagoda temple dedicated to Vajrayana deities were built by King Pratap Malla in the 17th century. Anantapura temple was named after his consort and both these temples represents the Shikhara style of architecture.
Bajra Dhatu Mandala : The Mandala depicts 12 animals representing the twelve months of the Tibetan year. The gilt Bajra installed by King Pratap Malla in the middle of the 17th century represents the sword Chandahasa of Manjushree.
Forms of Buddhas and their Consorts: The ten niches around the stupa represents the different forms of Buddha and their consorts. Clockwise representation are Aksobhya, Vairochana, Vajradhatvesvari, Mamaki Tara. Ratnasambhava, Pandara, Amitabha, Tara, Amogha Siddhi and Saptalochini.
The Vairochana is represented by the eyes painted on the hermika. Amitabha is the main deity of the Chaitya.
Five Elements of Life: Temples and sacred sites representing the five fundamental elements of nature are said to have been founded by Shantikar Acharya. The five elements of life represented in the premise of the Stupa are Vasupura ( earth), Nagapur (serpents, the lord of water).Shantipura or Akashpura ( space of sky), Vayupura ( air) and Agnipura (Fire).
Important Days to visit this Holy Site:
1. Buddha Purnima, the birthday of Lord Buddha which falls on the full moon day of Baishakh ( April-May).
2. Gunla, the holy Buddhist month according to Newari calendar (Aug-Sept, early morning).
3. Kojagrath Purnima (Sept-Oct), Samyak day of Magh (Jan-Feb) (once in every twelve years).
4. Lhosar
BOUDANATH
Boudanath, the biggest stupa of Nepal, is located 5 km east of central Kathmandu. The Stupa stands on a three-tiered platform raised over the crossed rectangles in order to bring out the yantra form.
The claims made in various religious and literary texts regarding the erection of the stupa is varied and conflicting. However, the stupa is believed to have been built in the 5th century A.D. during the reign of the Licchavi Kings.
As in other stupa architecture, this stupa also has vairochana at the center followed by Aksobhya, Ratna Sambhava, Amitabha and Amogha Siddhi in east, south, west and north directions respectively. Similarly, there are one hundred and eight small niches around the stupa accommodating the icons of Buddhas, Bodhisatavas and other female deities along with conjoint figures in erotic poses. Likewise, at the bottom level, it is surrounded with famous mantra Om Mani Padme Hum fixed in more than hundred and forty niches.
According to a very popular legen, in ancient time there was a poor girl in a Magat village of Nepal. She was called Jyajima and was very pious and charitable by nature. She had a deep desire to spread the faith of the Master and approached the King for a piece of land where she should build a stupa. Hence she built the stupa with the help of her four sons as it stands today.
According to another very popular legend, in the ancient days Kathmandu valley was under severe drought and this causes the King Dharma Dev much concern and anxiety. Finally, the King was advised by an astrologer that only the sacrifice of an ideal man with 32 virtues in front of the dry royal water could bring rainfall in the country. There were hardly anybody with such a great virtue except the King himself. So the following night he commanded his son to go the dry water spout near the royal palace at mid night and behead the person clad in white robe without looking at him. The Prince (Mandev-the Licchavi King) obeyed his father and to his great horror found that it was none other than his own father that he beheaded.
In order to atone for the heinous sin, he prayed to goddesses Vajrayogini who ordered him to erect a stupa and practice
rigorous penance. He practiced great penance in Gumvihar where Vajraogini rests and it was due to his great devotion there sprang out the present stupa of Boudanath.
Oldfield an Orientalist has written that a Lama from Tibet had died on his pilgrimage to Nepal and the stupa was erected with his relics and named it as Khasa Chaitya after his name.
During Buddha Jayanti ( birthday of Lord Buddha, April-May) on the full moon day, a religious procession takes place with the icons of Buddha on a chariot. During Lhosar festival (Jan-Feb) the pilgrims worship the Buddhist deities, light the incense and butter lamp day and night. On the full moon day of Janai Purnima (scared thread festival, Aug- Sept) the stupa is decorated with prayer flags and lights. Every twelve years a special ceremony is also observed denoting the fact that it took 12 years to built the stupa. Some Buddhist texts also mentions thast it took 2555 days (7 years) to complete the construction of the stupa. Dance, musical instruments, chant and hyms are performed to mark the event with great festivity.
The stupa along with the monasteries are centers of learning, cultural activities, prayers and meditation.
CHANGU NARAYAN
Located on a magnificent hill top commanding a fantastic view of Kathmandu valley, Changu Narayan – the temple of Lord Vishnu – lies 6 km north of Bhaktapur. The temple is full of magnificient art works in metal and wood. In fact, it is one of the finest examples of Nepalese architecture. The first epigraphic evidence of Nepalese history found in the temple premises during the reign of the Lichhavi King Mandeva dating back to 464 A.D. shows that Changu had already been established as a sacred site in the 3rd century A.D. The present structure was probably constructed in the 17th century, though older elements have been incorporated during the restoration. The pagoda style temple has several masterpieces of 5th and 12th century Nepalese art.
Some of the important sculptures here are:
1. Viswo Roop- Lord Vishnu in his all pervasive universal form Vishwo roop represented in a serpant bed- the- symbol of the endless water. This sculpture dates back to 8th century A.D.
2. Vishnu Vikaranta- Lord Vishnu in his most powerful form measuring the space by his feet. The stone bas-relief images is dated back to 8th century A.D.
3. Vishnu mounted in his vehicle Garuda- the mythical man bird.
4. Nr-singha Vishnu in his half human and half lion’s form.
The myth behind the conception of the Changu Narayan Temple portrays the religious significance and importance of the place. According to a legend, Lord Vishnu beheaded a Brahmin thinking it to be a demon and only discovered it later that he had committed a heinous crime. He then wandered on earth on his mount, the ‘Garuda’ eventually descending on the hill at Changu. There he lived in anonymity, surviving on milk stolen from a cow belonging to a hermit sage called Sudharshan. When Sudharsan noticed about the stolen milk, he attacked and beheaded Lord Vishnu which freed Lord Vishnu from his sins. Ever since that day, the site has been held sacred and the temple has been revered.
Situated 5 km east of Kathmandu city center, Pashupati literally means “Lord of Animals” and is considered to be the patron of Nepal. Pashupatinath is regarded as one of the holiest sites for Hindus all over the world.
Pashupatinath temple is a pagoda style two-tiered golden roof with exquisitely carved four silver doors containing in its sanctum
a phallic idol with four faces facing each direction and the other fifth one is looking up toward the zenith. A temple dedicated to Shiva was constructed at the present site by Licchavi King Supushpa Verma according to an ancient chronicle. However the present temple is claimed to have been built by King Bhupalendra Malla in 1697 A.D. Legend has it that a cow would frequently escape from its herds and offer milk on a Jyotirlinga ( phallic symbol of Shiva ) which denotes the point where the temple stands today. It is said that a certain cowherd much to his surprise found the self- generated Jyotirlinga ( phallic symbol of shiva) when he dug the spot where the cow would give milk. The spot immediately became the center of worship that been continued till today.
Legend also mentions that the Pandavas after the great Mahabharata battle were told that only by sighting Shiva would they be absolved of their sins and it was at this very spot that they saw the Lord. Hence, this most scared abode of Shiva, who is the God of the gods – Mahadeva – merits a visit by all Hindus, at least once in a lifetime, to be truly blessed and cleansed. It is believed that pilgrimage to the four dhams like Dwarika, Kedar, Rameshwor and Jaganath of India becomes meaningful only after a final darshan of Pashupatinath and by taking a holy dip in the Bagmati River and conducting a proper puja. There are temples of other Hindu deities in Pashupati premises like Bhairavnath, Vasuki nag, Parbati temple, Ram mandir,Vishwo rup,Goraknath, Kirateshwor temple and dozens of temples dedicated to different gods and goddesses.
A considerable part of the temple vicinity is converted to rest and prayer areas. Behind the temple on the banks of Bagmati is a crematorium for Hindus. It is the wish of every Hindu to be cremated on the bank of the Bagmati river near the temple. AT the other end of the Pashupatinath Temple area is the temple of Guheshwori dedicated to Shiva’s consort Parvati also known as Satidevi.There is also a deer park at the back of the temple across the Bagmati river. It is also interesting to watch the monkeys roam in and around the temple freely. One may also observe Sahus smeared with ashes and dressed in lion- cloths and the Hindus Brahmins offering Tika and blessing to the visitors. Pashupatinath attracts thousands of pilgrims on spring festival Maha Shivaratri ( Feb- March), the day dedicated to Shiva, Hari Talika/ Teej ( Aug- Sept.), Janai Purnima ( July-August) and all Mondays of the month of Shrawan (July-Aug).
In October 1979 Pashupati area was declared as the World Heritage Site by UNESCO and the temple is being managed by Pashupati Area Development Trust. The temple activities can be observed from the back of the temple.
SWAYAMBHUNATH
Located on a lovely little hillock, Swayambhunath Stupa lies about 4 km west of central Kathmandu. There are 360 steps leading all the way to the top commanding a magnificent view to the top commanding a magnificent view of Kathmandu valley and the brath-taking panoram of the snow-clad Himalaya range. The tradition in the Stupa follows the Vajrayana form of Buddhism which is a trantric variation of the Mahayana Buddhism ( the great vehicle). The stupa seem to have been constructed during the Licchavi Period. Religious and literally sources give numerous accounts of the establishment and the patronage of the Swayambhunath premises. It is also interesting to note that the stupa went a series of renovation during the Malla period in the medieval times with donations made by merchants, monks, pilgrims.and Buddhist followers.
As the ancient legend goes Kathmandu valley was a lake long time ago. Right in the center of this lake was a full blown lotus with the divine light atop. When Maha Manjushri a saint from China heard about this he came all the way from China to the valley. He cut through the southern hill of the valley with his divine sword. The cleft made by the sword immediately drained the entire lake water making the valley floor ready of habitation. Hundreds of votive shrines and other historical monuments built in and around this stupa speak a lot about the significance and antiquity of this famed stupa. The Stupa of Swayambhunath stands on a typically stylized lotus mandala base. The hemispherical part of the chaitya is made of brick and stone and on top of the hemispherical part lies the hermika which carries the eyes of Vairochana watching in all the directions and believed to have been painted in the Malla period. The stupa is also laden with the 13 gold plated spires which symbolizes the 13 stages to salvation. The spire is crowded by a golden umbrella supported by a pole from within the center. Devotees pour lime down the chaitya to cure illness of family members.
Harati Temple: It is two- tiered pagoda temple dedicated to Vajrayana deities were built by King Pratap Malla in the 17th century. Anantapura temple was named after his consort and both these temples represents the Shikhara style of architecture.
Bajra Dhatu Mandala : The Mandala depicts 12 animals representing the twelve months of the Tibetan year. The gilt Bajra installed by King Pratap Malla in the middle of the 17th century represents the sword Chandahasa of Manjushree.
Forms of Buddhas and their Consorts: The ten niches around the stupa represents the different forms of Buddha and their consorts. Clockwise representation are Aksobhya, Vairochana, Vajradhatvesvari, Mamaki Tara. Ratnasambhava, Pandara, Amitabha, Tara, Amogha Siddhi and Saptalochini.
The Vairochana is represented by the eyes painted on the hermika. Amitabha is the main deity of the Chaitya.
Five Elements of Life: Temples and sacred sites representing the five fundamental elements of nature are said to have been founded by Shantikar Acharya. The five elements of life represented in the premise of the Stupa are Vasupura ( earth), Nagapur (serpents, the lord of water).Shantipura or Akashpura ( space of sky), Vayupura ( air) and Agnipura (Fire).
Important Days to visit this Holy Site:
1. Buddha Purnima, the birthday of Lord Buddha which falls on the full moon day of Baishakh ( April-May).
2. Gunla, the holy Buddhist month according to Newari calendar (Aug-Sept, early morning).
3. Kojagrath Purnima (Sept-Oct), Samyak day of Magh (Jan-Feb) (once in every twelve years).
4. Lhosar
BOUDANATH
Boudanath, the biggest stupa of Nepal, is located 5 km east of central Kathmandu. The Stupa stands on a three-tiered platform raised over the crossed rectangles in order to bring out the yantra form.
The claims made in various religious and literary texts regarding the erection of the stupa is varied and conflicting. However, the stupa is believed to have been built in the 5th century A.D. during the reign of the Licchavi Kings.
As in other stupa architecture, this stupa also has vairochana at the center followed by Aksobhya, Ratna Sambhava, Amitabha and Amogha Siddhi in east, south, west and north directions respectively. Similarly, there are one hundred and eight small niches around the stupa accommodating the icons of Buddhas, Bodhisatavas and other female deities along with conjoint figures in erotic poses. Likewise, at the bottom level, it is surrounded with famous mantra Om Mani Padme Hum fixed in more than hundred and forty niches.
According to a very popular legen, in ancient time there was a poor girl in a Magat village of Nepal. She was called Jyajima and was very pious and charitable by nature. She had a deep desire to spread the faith of the Master and approached the King for a piece of land where she should build a stupa. Hence she built the stupa with the help of her four sons as it stands today.
According to another very popular legend, in the ancient days Kathmandu valley was under severe drought and this causes the King Dharma Dev much concern and anxiety. Finally, the King was advised by an astrologer that only the sacrifice of an ideal man with 32 virtues in front of the dry royal water could bring rainfall in the country. There were hardly anybody with such a great virtue except the King himself. So the following night he commanded his son to go the dry water spout near the royal palace at mid night and behead the person clad in white robe without looking at him. The Prince (Mandev-the Licchavi King) obeyed his father and to his great horror found that it was none other than his own father that he beheaded.
In order to atone for the heinous sin, he prayed to goddesses Vajrayogini who ordered him to erect a stupa and practice
rigorous penance. He practiced great penance in Gumvihar where Vajraogini rests and it was due to his great devotion there sprang out the present stupa of Boudanath.
Oldfield an Orientalist has written that a Lama from Tibet had died on his pilgrimage to Nepal and the stupa was erected with his relics and named it as Khasa Chaitya after his name.
During Buddha Jayanti ( birthday of Lord Buddha, April-May) on the full moon day, a religious procession takes place with the icons of Buddha on a chariot. During Lhosar festival (Jan-Feb) the pilgrims worship the Buddhist deities, light the incense and butter lamp day and night. On the full moon day of Janai Purnima (scared thread festival, Aug- Sept) the stupa is decorated with prayer flags and lights. Every twelve years a special ceremony is also observed denoting the fact that it took 12 years to built the stupa. Some Buddhist texts also mentions thast it took 2555 days (7 years) to complete the construction of the stupa. Dance, musical instruments, chant and hyms are performed to mark the event with great festivity.
The stupa along with the monasteries are centers of learning, cultural activities, prayers and meditation.
CHANGU NARAYAN
Located on a magnificent hill top commanding a fantastic view of Kathmandu valley, Changu Narayan – the temple of Lord Vishnu – lies 6 km north of Bhaktapur. The temple is full of magnificient art works in metal and wood. In fact, it is one of the finest examples of Nepalese architecture. The first epigraphic evidence of Nepalese history found in the temple premises during the reign of the Lichhavi King Mandeva dating back to 464 A.D. shows that Changu had already been established as a sacred site in the 3rd century A.D. The present structure was probably constructed in the 17th century, though older elements have been incorporated during the restoration. The pagoda style temple has several masterpieces of 5th and 12th century Nepalese art.
Some of the important sculptures here are:
1. Viswo Roop- Lord Vishnu in his all pervasive universal form Vishwo roop represented in a serpant bed- the- symbol of the endless water. This sculpture dates back to 8th century A.D.
2. Vishnu Vikaranta- Lord Vishnu in his most powerful form measuring the space by his feet. The stone bas-relief images is dated back to 8th century A.D.
3. Vishnu mounted in his vehicle Garuda- the mythical man bird.
4. Nr-singha Vishnu in his half human and half lion’s form.
The myth behind the conception of the Changu Narayan Temple portrays the religious significance and importance of the place. According to a legend, Lord Vishnu beheaded a Brahmin thinking it to be a demon and only discovered it later that he had committed a heinous crime. He then wandered on earth on his mount, the ‘Garuda’ eventually descending on the hill at Changu. There he lived in anonymity, surviving on milk stolen from a cow belonging to a hermit sage called Sudharshan. When Sudharsan noticed about the stolen milk, he attacked and beheaded Lord Vishnu which freed Lord Vishnu from his sins. Ever since that day, the site has been held sacred and the temple has been revered.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
mounteverest
BHAKTAPUR DURBAR SQUARE
Bhaktapur meaning the city of devotees founded by King Ananda Dev in 1197 A.D. according to the Gopal Raj Vamsabali even though the existence of the city could be traced back to the Licchavi period (195-750 A.D.). There are many monuments including pagodas, palaces, shikhara style monuments, courtyards, and Buddhists shrines and monasteries. The Durbar Square was the seat of the Malla Kings and the present structures were erected from the 12th kilometers away from Kathmandu city.
The Lion Gate: The two lions symbolizes the elements of power and protection and was installed on its either sides during the reign of King Bhupatindra Malla in 1696 A.D. This gate has beautiful stone statues of Bhairav – the fierce form of Shiva and Durga – manifestation of Shakti – the female power.
Golden Gate: The Golden Gate was built by King Ranjit Malla in 1754 A.D. which serves as an entrance to the Taleju complex.
Four Pilgrimage sites: You can also observe the four dhams ( pilgrimage sites) of Jagannath, Kedarnath, Rameshwor and Badrinath just at the entrance. It is replication of holy sites revered in India.
Stone Column: King Bhupatindra Malla seated atop on a stone pillar in an attitude of prayer to Taleju Bhawani. He was a great builder, a scholar and an artist.
55windows Palace: This is the supreme wooden architectural structure dominating the entire Durbar Square. This magnificent edifice was originally built by Yakshya Malla in 1427 A.D. and embellished later by Bhupatindra Malla in 17th century.
Vastala Temple: It was built on Shikhara style completely of stones by Jaya Ranjit Malla the 17th century A.D. temple is dedicated to a mother goddess Durga. On the lower flank of the temple, there is a small bell known as ‘barking bell’ because dogs bark and whine at the sound of the bell. In those days the bell was used as an alarm to alert the people during emergency.
Yakcheswor Mahadev: This temple is replication of Pashupatinath Temple of Kathmandu. It was built by King Yakshya Malla in 1480 A.D. It shows the importance of Pashupati temple in the spiritual life of the people of Bhaktapur and it was built so that people from Bhaktapur may avoid the difficulty of going to main Pashupati in Kathmandu for offering prayers.
A folklore mentions that the king who was a great devotee of Lord Pashupati dreamt the lord who told him to built a temple for him so that he could move into it. He obeyed the divine command and thus the temple was built.
Taumadi Square
Nyatapola: The temple was founded by King Bhupatindra Malla in 1702 A.D. Nyatapola in Newari means five-tiered temple symbolizing the five elements of Nature. The temple is dedicated to
Goddess Siddhi Laxmi – a Tantric deity representing the most powerful female force. Legend goes that the temple was built by King on the advice of the astrologers to pacify god Bhairav and maintain a harmonious balance of male and female principle. Nyatapole and Bhairav temples signify the co-existence of male and female energy pervading the earth.
The temple stands above the five plinth and rises above 30 m above the top plinth. Pairs of the animals and robust men flanked the stairway. It is believed that every pair of guardian is ten times more powerful than the pair immediately below. This is the most famous pagoda of Nepal.
Bhairav Nath Temple: This temple of Bhairav – the ferocious form of Shiva – was originally built by Jagat Jyoti Malla as a one storeyed temple and later King Bhupatindra Malla added two more stories to it iin 1718 A.D. According to al legend Vishwanath, a manifestation of Shiva once visited Bhaktapur to observe Bisket Jatra. When the locals recognize him they beheaded him in order to retain him permanently in the temple. It is because of this reason the central image of Bhairav temple has the head of Bhairav without the body and is taken on a chariot once during the Bisket Jatra which is the biggest festival of the town held in April.
Teel Mahadev Narayan Temple: South from Nyatopola lies this temple dedicated to lord Vishnu built in the 12th century A.D. a disc, lotus, conch-shell and a mace-four emblems of lord Vishnu are placed on Pillars to the sides of the entrance.
Dattatreya Square
Dattatreya Temple: Dattatreya Temple, originally built by Yakshya Malla in 1427 A.D. and renovated by his son Vishwa Malla in 1458 A.D. is the only temple in Nepal that is dedicated to Lord Dattatreya – the combined incarnation of the three supereme gods- Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. The entrance of the temple is guarded by two robust men and in a stone pillar is placed a conch and disc like weapon dedicated to Vishnu. A bronze statue of garuda the messenger of Vishnu is also erected on a stone column.
Bhimsen Temple: To the west of the Dattatreya temple is the Bhimsen temple built in 1605 A.D. Lord Bhimsen is the second oldest of the five Pandavas of the Mahabharat epic. In the olden days people had to walk to Tibet or India of trade and pilgrimage, so one had to be naturally strong to embark on an ardrous Journey. In order to gain strength people prayed to Lord Bhimsen and the tradition continues till today. The area also has two bronze and wood carving museums and the famous window peacock – an original masterpiece of Nepali wood work.
Pujari Math: The Pujari math literally translated as the Priest’s house now houses the wood carving museum. The Math built by King Yakshya Malla in the 15th century was used for storing donations and contributions. The world famous peacock window of the 15th century is situated on the eastern face of this house. One can observe intricately carved images of gods and goddess on the struts of this monuments.
Bhaktapur meaning the city of devotees founded by King Ananda Dev in 1197 A.D. according to the Gopal Raj Vamsabali even though the existence of the city could be traced back to the Licchavi period (195-750 A.D.). There are many monuments including pagodas, palaces, shikhara style monuments, courtyards, and Buddhists shrines and monasteries. The Durbar Square was the seat of the Malla Kings and the present structures were erected from the 12th kilometers away from Kathmandu city.
The Lion Gate: The two lions symbolizes the elements of power and protection and was installed on its either sides during the reign of King Bhupatindra Malla in 1696 A.D. This gate has beautiful stone statues of Bhairav – the fierce form of Shiva and Durga – manifestation of Shakti – the female power.
Golden Gate: The Golden Gate was built by King Ranjit Malla in 1754 A.D. which serves as an entrance to the Taleju complex.
Four Pilgrimage sites: You can also observe the four dhams ( pilgrimage sites) of Jagannath, Kedarnath, Rameshwor and Badrinath just at the entrance. It is replication of holy sites revered in India.
Stone Column: King Bhupatindra Malla seated atop on a stone pillar in an attitude of prayer to Taleju Bhawani. He was a great builder, a scholar and an artist.
55windows Palace: This is the supreme wooden architectural structure dominating the entire Durbar Square. This magnificent edifice was originally built by Yakshya Malla in 1427 A.D. and embellished later by Bhupatindra Malla in 17th century.
Vastala Temple: It was built on Shikhara style completely of stones by Jaya Ranjit Malla the 17th century A.D. temple is dedicated to a mother goddess Durga. On the lower flank of the temple, there is a small bell known as ‘barking bell’ because dogs bark and whine at the sound of the bell. In those days the bell was used as an alarm to alert the people during emergency.
Yakcheswor Mahadev: This temple is replication of Pashupatinath Temple of Kathmandu. It was built by King Yakshya Malla in 1480 A.D. It shows the importance of Pashupati temple in the spiritual life of the people of Bhaktapur and it was built so that people from Bhaktapur may avoid the difficulty of going to main Pashupati in Kathmandu for offering prayers.
A folklore mentions that the king who was a great devotee of Lord Pashupati dreamt the lord who told him to built a temple for him so that he could move into it. He obeyed the divine command and thus the temple was built.
Taumadi Square
Nyatapola: The temple was founded by King Bhupatindra Malla in 1702 A.D. Nyatapola in Newari means five-tiered temple symbolizing the five elements of Nature. The temple is dedicated to
Goddess Siddhi Laxmi – a Tantric deity representing the most powerful female force. Legend goes that the temple was built by King on the advice of the astrologers to pacify god Bhairav and maintain a harmonious balance of male and female principle. Nyatapole and Bhairav temples signify the co-existence of male and female energy pervading the earth.
The temple stands above the five plinth and rises above 30 m above the top plinth. Pairs of the animals and robust men flanked the stairway. It is believed that every pair of guardian is ten times more powerful than the pair immediately below. This is the most famous pagoda of Nepal.
Bhairav Nath Temple: This temple of Bhairav – the ferocious form of Shiva – was originally built by Jagat Jyoti Malla as a one storeyed temple and later King Bhupatindra Malla added two more stories to it iin 1718 A.D. According to al legend Vishwanath, a manifestation of Shiva once visited Bhaktapur to observe Bisket Jatra. When the locals recognize him they beheaded him in order to retain him permanently in the temple. It is because of this reason the central image of Bhairav temple has the head of Bhairav without the body and is taken on a chariot once during the Bisket Jatra which is the biggest festival of the town held in April.
Teel Mahadev Narayan Temple: South from Nyatopola lies this temple dedicated to lord Vishnu built in the 12th century A.D. a disc, lotus, conch-shell and a mace-four emblems of lord Vishnu are placed on Pillars to the sides of the entrance.
Dattatreya Square
Dattatreya Temple: Dattatreya Temple, originally built by Yakshya Malla in 1427 A.D. and renovated by his son Vishwa Malla in 1458 A.D. is the only temple in Nepal that is dedicated to Lord Dattatreya – the combined incarnation of the three supereme gods- Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. The entrance of the temple is guarded by two robust men and in a stone pillar is placed a conch and disc like weapon dedicated to Vishnu. A bronze statue of garuda the messenger of Vishnu is also erected on a stone column.
Bhimsen Temple: To the west of the Dattatreya temple is the Bhimsen temple built in 1605 A.D. Lord Bhimsen is the second oldest of the five Pandavas of the Mahabharat epic. In the olden days people had to walk to Tibet or India of trade and pilgrimage, so one had to be naturally strong to embark on an ardrous Journey. In order to gain strength people prayed to Lord Bhimsen and the tradition continues till today. The area also has two bronze and wood carving museums and the famous window peacock – an original masterpiece of Nepali wood work.
Pujari Math: The Pujari math literally translated as the Priest’s house now houses the wood carving museum. The Math built by King Yakshya Malla in the 15th century was used for storing donations and contributions. The world famous peacock window of the 15th century is situated on the eastern face of this house. One can observe intricately carved images of gods and goddess on the struts of this monuments.
mounteverest
PATAN DURBAR SQUARE
Patan is also known as Lalitpur which means the city of arts. It is located across the river Bagmati which is 5 km south of central Kathmandu. This city founded in 3rd century A.D. by King Veera Dev has a distinction of being the home of the finest crafts and is considered oldest of all three cities of Kathmandu valley. Most of the monuments in this square date back to the medevial Malla period from 16th to 18th century and the monuments in the area are mostly credited to King Siddhi Nar Singh Malla, Shri Niwas Malla and Yog Narendra Malla.
Main Chowks ( Courtyards): Patan Durbar Square consists of three main courtyards – Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowk and mani Keshab Narayan Chowk which houses the Patan Museum. The Sundari Chowk built by King Siddhi Nar Singh Malla in 1647 A.D. contains the master piece of stone sculpture known as the Royal Bath and was used for performing ritual bathing.
Bhimsen Temple: The three- storied temple of Bhimsen located on the extreme north of the square with the magnificent golden balcony overlooking the square outside is very popular amongst the local merchant and trader communities. There are curio shops around the temple.
Vishwa Nath Temple: This two- storied temple dedicated to Shiva located near the Bhimsen temple is built in Pagoda style and houses a large phallic of Shiva and the temple is guarded by two elephants.
Krishna Mandir: The temple of Lord Krishna built in the 17th century by King Siddhi Narshingh Malla is the first specimen of Shikhara style tempe entirely made of stone. I t is the only temple in Nepal with 21 golden pinnacles and contains engraved scenes from the epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Stone Column: The Stone Column of King Yog Narendra Malla in a praying posture to goddess Taleju is protected by a snake above his head and a bird is seen seated on the snake. Legend says that the King would be remembered and remain immortal as long as the bird does not fly from there. It is because of this believe that a window of the nearby palace is kept open for the spirit of the King to come and rest in the palace. A stone laocated nearby with the Garuda atop facing the Krishna Temple is another typical example of Nepali stone workmanship.
Harishankar Temple: This three-tier temple built iin 1704 A.D. is dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu. This temple was built by the wives of King Yoga Narendra Malla after his death in his memory because of which this temple is also known as Sati temple.
Taleju Temple: There are prominent temples like the three- storied octangonal temple of Taleju Bhawani and Digu Taleju – the five Storied temple of the protective deities built by King Siddhi Narshingha Malla in 17th century. These temples are unique example of craftsmanship in wood.
Golden Temple: The tree- storied golden pagoda was built by King Bhaskar Verma in the 12th century and contains image of Amoghpash Lokeshwor, large prayer wheel and paintings of Buddha. The temple is located at a walking distance north from the main square.
Kumbheshwor: This five- storied temple dedicated to Shiva was built during the reign of King Jayastithi Malla in the late 14th century. It is few minutes walk north from the main square. A religious fair is held during Janai Purnima (August). There is also a famous Banglamukhi temple nearby.
Mahaboudha: Thousand images of Buddha are found in the temple made of fine quality bricks. The temple was constructed in the 15th century by an architech named Avay Raj and is located eastwards within walking distance from the main square.
There are many other shrines, sculptures, stupas scattered in an around the square and provide a unique experience to visitors and art lovers.
Patan is also known as Lalitpur which means the city of arts. It is located across the river Bagmati which is 5 km south of central Kathmandu. This city founded in 3rd century A.D. by King Veera Dev has a distinction of being the home of the finest crafts and is considered oldest of all three cities of Kathmandu valley. Most of the monuments in this square date back to the medevial Malla period from 16th to 18th century and the monuments in the area are mostly credited to King Siddhi Nar Singh Malla, Shri Niwas Malla and Yog Narendra Malla.
Main Chowks ( Courtyards): Patan Durbar Square consists of three main courtyards – Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowk and mani Keshab Narayan Chowk which houses the Patan Museum. The Sundari Chowk built by King Siddhi Nar Singh Malla in 1647 A.D. contains the master piece of stone sculpture known as the Royal Bath and was used for performing ritual bathing.
Bhimsen Temple: The three- storied temple of Bhimsen located on the extreme north of the square with the magnificent golden balcony overlooking the square outside is very popular amongst the local merchant and trader communities. There are curio shops around the temple.
Vishwa Nath Temple: This two- storied temple dedicated to Shiva located near the Bhimsen temple is built in Pagoda style and houses a large phallic of Shiva and the temple is guarded by two elephants.
Krishna Mandir: The temple of Lord Krishna built in the 17th century by King Siddhi Narshingh Malla is the first specimen of Shikhara style tempe entirely made of stone. I t is the only temple in Nepal with 21 golden pinnacles and contains engraved scenes from the epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Stone Column: The Stone Column of King Yog Narendra Malla in a praying posture to goddess Taleju is protected by a snake above his head and a bird is seen seated on the snake. Legend says that the King would be remembered and remain immortal as long as the bird does not fly from there. It is because of this believe that a window of the nearby palace is kept open for the spirit of the King to come and rest in the palace. A stone laocated nearby with the Garuda atop facing the Krishna Temple is another typical example of Nepali stone workmanship.
Harishankar Temple: This three-tier temple built iin 1704 A.D. is dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu. This temple was built by the wives of King Yoga Narendra Malla after his death in his memory because of which this temple is also known as Sati temple.
Taleju Temple: There are prominent temples like the three- storied octangonal temple of Taleju Bhawani and Digu Taleju – the five Storied temple of the protective deities built by King Siddhi Narshingha Malla in 17th century. These temples are unique example of craftsmanship in wood.
Golden Temple: The tree- storied golden pagoda was built by King Bhaskar Verma in the 12th century and contains image of Amoghpash Lokeshwor, large prayer wheel and paintings of Buddha. The temple is located at a walking distance north from the main square.
Kumbheshwor: This five- storied temple dedicated to Shiva was built during the reign of King Jayastithi Malla in the late 14th century. It is few minutes walk north from the main square. A religious fair is held during Janai Purnima (August). There is also a famous Banglamukhi temple nearby.
Mahaboudha: Thousand images of Buddha are found in the temple made of fine quality bricks. The temple was constructed in the 15th century by an architech named Avay Raj and is located eastwards within walking distance from the main square.
There are many other shrines, sculptures, stupas scattered in an around the square and provide a unique experience to visitors and art lovers.
Friday, April 15, 2011
mounteverest
WORLD HERITAGE SITES OF NEPAL
There are four UNESCO World Heritage Sites (WHS) in Nepal of these four WHS, - twp are in cultural category and two WHS fall in the natural category.
In the cultural category, the seven monuments of the Kathmandu valley (together counted as one WHS) and Lumbini – the birthplace of Lord Buddha – are included whereas the other two WHS in the natural grouping are the Chitwan National Park and Sagarmatha National Park. The Kathmandu Valley WHS comprises of three historical palaces of Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square and Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Two Buddhist stupas- Swayambhu and Boudanath, and two Hindu temples Pashupati and Changu Narayan. The densest concentration of these heritages sites can be found here owing to the cultural and political importance of the Kathmandu valley. All these monuments were designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in October 1979. Most of the places listed in the WHS were revered for thousands of years and there has been a series of contributions and renovations in the form of construction of temples, stupas and palaces over the centuries by different rulers and kings. The WHS of Nepal are an expression of the finest sensibility of the history and lifestyle of Nepal and are a legacy of the Nepalese people to human civilization.
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
The Kathmandu Valley civilization is around 3000 years old. It has been claimed that the valley was a large pond in the early geological period and it was only when the pond was drained that the valley was ready for human settlement. There is also a legend which reinforces the story that a certain Bodhistav called Manjushree came to Kathmandu Valley and cut the gorge in Chobar with his flaming sword and drained the water out of the valley making it ready for human settlement.
The fertile land supported large settlements, and over the centuries different dynasties that ruled the valley patronized an urban civilization with its rich cultural heritage. Politically the present days Nepal was divided into petty principalities and the earliest ruling class of Nepal were the Gopalas, Mahispalas and Kiratas dynastries who were followed by Licchavi ( 185-750 A.D.) The Lichhavi period is known as the classical period of Nepalese history because it was during this period that art and architecture began to take shape. Trade and crafts flourished under them, and they built magnificent temples, palaces and monuments.
But it was only under the later Malla period and the early Shah period from 14th to the 18th centuries the valley’s fabulous cities with their exquistic pagoda, shikhara and stupa architecture, ornate palaces and artistic temples came to take shape in the form that we see it today.
However the present day neo-classical buildings were built only during the second half of the 19th century ( Rana Regime) with Nepal’s first contact with the western countries.
Sculptures, wood craft and stone works were the medium and means on which the expert hand and imagination of the artistis acted on with impressive originally and ingenuity.
This historical monuments of the world heritage sites of Kathmandu valley are marked by the presence of three prominent architectural style namely the Pagoda, Shikhara and the Stupa style. The pagodas are multi-tiered monuments tapering towards the struts. These ubiquitous wooden historical structures are supplement by bronze works and stone sculptures together forming the squares and palaces with profuse representation of images of gods, goddesses, demons, beasts, mythical figures, kings and the ordinary human beings engaged in their day-to-day activities.
KATHMANDU DUBAR SQUARE
Kathmandu Durbar Square lies in the heart of the Kathmandu city. The locals know this area by its old name Hanuman Dhoka- an ancient seat of the Nepalese Royalty. The Royal Palace during medival times were not merely for Royal activities but also used as the center of administration, cultural activities and festivals.
The historical buildings and temples in the area were erected from the time of King Ratna Malla ( 1484-1520 AD) to Prithvi Bir Bikram Shah ( 1875-1911 AD) covering the Malla, Shah and Rana period of Nepalese Hanuman. One can see a huge stone statue of Hanuman painted all red next to the main entrance ( the golden gate) of the palace. Hanuman here is regarded as a powerful protector of the entire Durbar Square.
Prominent Monuments:
Taleju Temple: The temple built by King Mahendra Malla in 1562 A.D. was dedicated to the royal deity of the Malla kings. Resting on a 12 stage plinth, the temple is 36.6 meters high. The temple is opened to the public just once in a year during Dashain festival ( Sept-Oct).
Krishna Temple: This octagonal temple dedicated to Lord Krishna was built in 1649 A.D. by Pratap Malla in memory of his two dead queens. There is a mention in the epigraph that the temple contains the statue of the King and his queens representing as Lord Krishna and his consorts.
Jagannath Temple: The image of Jagannath was installed in 1563 A.D. during the reign of Mahendra Malla and the temple is famous for erotic carvings.
Stone Column: The Stone Column represents the statue of King Pratap Malla in praying gesture to Goddess Taleju- The Royal Family Deity.
Degutalle Temple: A Tantric goddess representing the family deity of the Malla kings is enriched in the temple and access is restricted to visitors. The temple lies opposite the Stone Column and was built in 1671 A.D. by King Shiva Singh and later renovated by King Pratap Malla.
Hanuman Statue: Kneeling Hanuman, the monkey god, seated on a stone pedestal and flanked by a pair of lions symbolizes strength and protection against all possible threats. The Hanuman pedestal was erected by King Pratap Malla in 1672 A.D.
Shiva-Parvati Temple: The divine couple Shiva and his consort Parvati look out from the central window of the first floor. The temple was built during the reign of King Bahadur Shah.
Big Bell: The bell erected in 1797 A.D. by King Rana Bahadur Shah is rung only when worship is being offered in Degutalle temple situated nearby.
Kal Bhairav: Shiva in his ferocious form is known as Bhairav. This is one of the largest image of Bhairav and was erected by King Pratap Malla.
Maju Dewal: This temple dedicated to Shiva was built in the late 17th century by Queen Mother Riddhi Laxmi and rests on a nine plinth base dominating the square and commanding a good view of the area.
Trilokya Mohan Narayan: This Vishnu temple of late 17th century near the Kumari Ghar, was built on a five stage plinth by King Prathibendra in memory of his deceased brother. There is a kneeling image of Garuda – the vehicle of Vishnu, near the temple. During Indrajatra ( Chariot festival) large crowd gather here to see the ten incarnations of Vishnu enacted on the pedestal.
Kumari Ghar: Kumari Ghar built in 1757 A.D. by King Prakash Malla is the house of the living goddess “Kumari” who is believed to be the incarnation of goddess Taleju, the protective deity. Kumari often provides her blessing from the window to the visitiors.
Basantapur Durbar: The Basantapur Durbar also known as Nau-talle durbar was built by King Prithvi Narayan Shah in 1770 A.D. Alongside there are other high standing pagodas known as Kirtipur Tower, Bhaktapur Tower and Lalitpur Tower.
Gaddi Baithak: This neoclassical building was built by Chandra Shumsher in 1908 A.D. during the reign of King Prithvi Bir Bikram Shah. Such kind of buildings were constructed because of Nepalese with the west in the second half of the 18th century.
Kasthamandap: This 12th century wooden building is said to be constructed from the wood of a single tree hence Kathmandu obtains its name from this historical building, Kasthamandap. The building was used for public gathering during those days. The central image in the building consists of Gorakhanath and there are miniature temples of four Ganeshas.
Ashok Vinayak: This temple dedicated to the elephant god Ganesha is revered both by the Hindus and Buddhists alike and is one of the most important shrine in the valley.
Dhansa: This temple was built in 1673 A.D. by Pratap Mala to start a new masked dance of Narasimha, an incarnation of Vishnu.
There are four UNESCO World Heritage Sites (WHS) in Nepal of these four WHS, - twp are in cultural category and two WHS fall in the natural category.
In the cultural category, the seven monuments of the Kathmandu valley (together counted as one WHS) and Lumbini – the birthplace of Lord Buddha – are included whereas the other two WHS in the natural grouping are the Chitwan National Park and Sagarmatha National Park. The Kathmandu Valley WHS comprises of three historical palaces of Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square and Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Two Buddhist stupas- Swayambhu and Boudanath, and two Hindu temples Pashupati and Changu Narayan. The densest concentration of these heritages sites can be found here owing to the cultural and political importance of the Kathmandu valley. All these monuments were designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in October 1979. Most of the places listed in the WHS were revered for thousands of years and there has been a series of contributions and renovations in the form of construction of temples, stupas and palaces over the centuries by different rulers and kings. The WHS of Nepal are an expression of the finest sensibility of the history and lifestyle of Nepal and are a legacy of the Nepalese people to human civilization.
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
The Kathmandu Valley civilization is around 3000 years old. It has been claimed that the valley was a large pond in the early geological period and it was only when the pond was drained that the valley was ready for human settlement. There is also a legend which reinforces the story that a certain Bodhistav called Manjushree came to Kathmandu Valley and cut the gorge in Chobar with his flaming sword and drained the water out of the valley making it ready for human settlement.
The fertile land supported large settlements, and over the centuries different dynasties that ruled the valley patronized an urban civilization with its rich cultural heritage. Politically the present days Nepal was divided into petty principalities and the earliest ruling class of Nepal were the Gopalas, Mahispalas and Kiratas dynastries who were followed by Licchavi ( 185-750 A.D.) The Lichhavi period is known as the classical period of Nepalese history because it was during this period that art and architecture began to take shape. Trade and crafts flourished under them, and they built magnificent temples, palaces and monuments.
But it was only under the later Malla period and the early Shah period from 14th to the 18th centuries the valley’s fabulous cities with their exquistic pagoda, shikhara and stupa architecture, ornate palaces and artistic temples came to take shape in the form that we see it today.
However the present day neo-classical buildings were built only during the second half of the 19th century ( Rana Regime) with Nepal’s first contact with the western countries.
Sculptures, wood craft and stone works were the medium and means on which the expert hand and imagination of the artistis acted on with impressive originally and ingenuity.
This historical monuments of the world heritage sites of Kathmandu valley are marked by the presence of three prominent architectural style namely the Pagoda, Shikhara and the Stupa style. The pagodas are multi-tiered monuments tapering towards the struts. These ubiquitous wooden historical structures are supplement by bronze works and stone sculptures together forming the squares and palaces with profuse representation of images of gods, goddesses, demons, beasts, mythical figures, kings and the ordinary human beings engaged in their day-to-day activities.
KATHMANDU DUBAR SQUARE
Kathmandu Durbar Square lies in the heart of the Kathmandu city. The locals know this area by its old name Hanuman Dhoka- an ancient seat of the Nepalese Royalty. The Royal Palace during medival times were not merely for Royal activities but also used as the center of administration, cultural activities and festivals.
The historical buildings and temples in the area were erected from the time of King Ratna Malla ( 1484-1520 AD) to Prithvi Bir Bikram Shah ( 1875-1911 AD) covering the Malla, Shah and Rana period of Nepalese Hanuman. One can see a huge stone statue of Hanuman painted all red next to the main entrance ( the golden gate) of the palace. Hanuman here is regarded as a powerful protector of the entire Durbar Square.
Prominent Monuments:
Taleju Temple: The temple built by King Mahendra Malla in 1562 A.D. was dedicated to the royal deity of the Malla kings. Resting on a 12 stage plinth, the temple is 36.6 meters high. The temple is opened to the public just once in a year during Dashain festival ( Sept-Oct).
Krishna Temple: This octagonal temple dedicated to Lord Krishna was built in 1649 A.D. by Pratap Malla in memory of his two dead queens. There is a mention in the epigraph that the temple contains the statue of the King and his queens representing as Lord Krishna and his consorts.
Jagannath Temple: The image of Jagannath was installed in 1563 A.D. during the reign of Mahendra Malla and the temple is famous for erotic carvings.
Stone Column: The Stone Column represents the statue of King Pratap Malla in praying gesture to Goddess Taleju- The Royal Family Deity.
Degutalle Temple: A Tantric goddess representing the family deity of the Malla kings is enriched in the temple and access is restricted to visitors. The temple lies opposite the Stone Column and was built in 1671 A.D. by King Shiva Singh and later renovated by King Pratap Malla.
Hanuman Statue: Kneeling Hanuman, the monkey god, seated on a stone pedestal and flanked by a pair of lions symbolizes strength and protection against all possible threats. The Hanuman pedestal was erected by King Pratap Malla in 1672 A.D.
Shiva-Parvati Temple: The divine couple Shiva and his consort Parvati look out from the central window of the first floor. The temple was built during the reign of King Bahadur Shah.
Big Bell: The bell erected in 1797 A.D. by King Rana Bahadur Shah is rung only when worship is being offered in Degutalle temple situated nearby.
Kal Bhairav: Shiva in his ferocious form is known as Bhairav. This is one of the largest image of Bhairav and was erected by King Pratap Malla.
Maju Dewal: This temple dedicated to Shiva was built in the late 17th century by Queen Mother Riddhi Laxmi and rests on a nine plinth base dominating the square and commanding a good view of the area.
Trilokya Mohan Narayan: This Vishnu temple of late 17th century near the Kumari Ghar, was built on a five stage plinth by King Prathibendra in memory of his deceased brother. There is a kneeling image of Garuda – the vehicle of Vishnu, near the temple. During Indrajatra ( Chariot festival) large crowd gather here to see the ten incarnations of Vishnu enacted on the pedestal.
Kumari Ghar: Kumari Ghar built in 1757 A.D. by King Prakash Malla is the house of the living goddess “Kumari” who is believed to be the incarnation of goddess Taleju, the protective deity. Kumari often provides her blessing from the window to the visitiors.
Basantapur Durbar: The Basantapur Durbar also known as Nau-talle durbar was built by King Prithvi Narayan Shah in 1770 A.D. Alongside there are other high standing pagodas known as Kirtipur Tower, Bhaktapur Tower and Lalitpur Tower.
Gaddi Baithak: This neoclassical building was built by Chandra Shumsher in 1908 A.D. during the reign of King Prithvi Bir Bikram Shah. Such kind of buildings were constructed because of Nepalese with the west in the second half of the 18th century.
Kasthamandap: This 12th century wooden building is said to be constructed from the wood of a single tree hence Kathmandu obtains its name from this historical building, Kasthamandap. The building was used for public gathering during those days. The central image in the building consists of Gorakhanath and there are miniature temples of four Ganeshas.
Ashok Vinayak: This temple dedicated to the elephant god Ganesha is revered both by the Hindus and Buddhists alike and is one of the most important shrine in the valley.
Dhansa: This temple was built in 1673 A.D. by Pratap Mala to start a new masked dance of Narasimha, an incarnation of Vishnu.
Monday, March 21, 2011
mounteverest
National Parks
Wildlife Reserves and Conservation Area of Nepal
The geography of Nepal can be divided into high mountains, mid hills and low lands. A wide range of ecosystem from sub-tropical jungles of the Terai to the arctic conditions of Himalayan highlands are found within an area of 147,181 sq km.
There are a total of 9 national parks, 3 wildlife reserve, 6 conservation areas, 1 hunting reserve including 11 buffer zone areas in an around protected areas, covering a total of 28998.67 sq km. (19.70%) of the country’s total land. Nepal’s rich bio-diversity renders it ideal as an eco-tourism destination.
Bardia National Park(968 km2) and Buffer Zone ( 328km2)
The Bardia National Park is the largest and most undisturbed protected area in the Terai and is home to the endangered Royal Bengal tiger and Nepal’s famous one-horned rhinoceros. The national park located in the mid western district of Bardia, is bordered by River Karnali in the west, the Churia range in the park. The varied geographical factors together with the thick cover of Sal, savannah forests and grasslands render this region ideal as wild animal habitat. The park hosts 53 different mammals more than 400 species of birds, and several varieties of reptiles and water animals. Some of the other animals found here are elephant, swamp deer, black buck, gharial crocodile and marsh mugger crocodile. The fresh-water Gangetic dolphin is also commonly seen in River karnali. Birds include endangered varieties of Bengal florican, lesser florican, silvereared mesia and saruscrane. The park offers the rare opportunity of angling at River Karnali and River Babai.
Activities: Jungle safari on elephant-back, jungle walk, boat ride, jeep drive
Accommodation: Jungle lodges
Access: Three hours drive (95 km) from
Nepalgunj which is 1 hour by air or
516 km by road from Kathmandu
Best Season: Oct-Mar; Apr-Jun (hot, up to 42
degress Celsius), Jul-Sep (rainy)
Park Headquarter: Thakurdwara, Tel 084-429719
Chitwan National Park
Owing to its rich adornment of nature, Chitwan National Park was declared UNESCO Natural Heritage Site in 1984. The Park that includes in its area a part of the Shivalik Hills, is covered with deciduous forests overlooking the flood plains of Narayani, Rapti Reu rivers and offering a wilderness of rich ecosystem that includes mammals,birds,reptiles and water animals of several kinds. There are around 600 plant species, 56 mammals, 539 birds and 49 amphibians and reptiles found in the park. The highlight are the 412 Asian one-horned rhinoceros and some 59 Royal Bengal tigers that live in the dense forests of the park. Sharing home with these are other animals like rhesus monkey,langur,deer,leopards, gaur, wild boar, wild dogs and wild cats. Among reptiles are different kinds of snakes including the python, while the river areas breed reptiles like the endangered long snouted gharial popularity known as Gangetic crocodile and marsh crocodiles. The forest is alive during flycatcher, Indian pitta and parakeets, while winter birds include waterfowl, Brahminy ducks, pintails,bar-headed geese, cormorants and migratory birds from Siberia. Other bird varieties are wood peckers, hornbills, peacocks, peahens, floricans and redheaded trogons. A rare attraction of the park is the world’s fresh-water dolphin sometimes seen in River Narayani. Another factor adding a district touch to the Chitwan experience is the colorful Tharu culture. There are also sites of religious and historical importance at Devghat, Pandavnagar, Balmiki Ashram and Kabilaspur.
Activities: Jungle safari on elephant-back,
jungle walk, canoe ride, jeep drive,
experience of Tharu culture
Accommodation: Resort hotels and lodges
Access: The park headquarters at Kasara is
a 21 km drive from Bharatpur
which is 20 minutes by air or 146
km by road from Kathmandu
Best Season: Oct-Mar ( average temperature 25
_ Jun ( hot, up to 43 degress), Jul-
Sep (rainy)
Park Headquarter: Kasara, Tel: 056529405
Khaptad National Park( 25KM2 and Buffer Zone(216 km2 )
Khaptad National Park in west Nepal is the home of Late Khaptad Swami, the renowned scholar and a hermit. The park with rolling hills of grasslands and forests of subtropical, temperate and sub alpine vegetation, is also a rich natural habitat. The park boasts of 224 species of medicinal herbs and offers excellent bird watching opportunities, with 270 species of birds, the common ones being different varieties of impheyan pheasant, partridges, flycatchers, bulbuls, cuckoos and eagles. Animals in the park are barking deer, wild boar, ghoral, Himalayan black bear, yellow-throated marten, rhesus monkey and langur monkey. The park also offers religious sightseeing at Tribeni on the way to its headquarters.There are several historical temples surrounding this area and an annual celebration of Ganga Dashhara is held here every Jestha Purnima.
Another religious site is Sahashra Linga at 3,200 m, the highest point of the park, Other religious areas in the park include Ganesh Temple, Nagdhunga, and Kedardhunga. These areas are ideal places for mediation. Towards the northeast of the park is Khapdat Lake where a festival is held every August and September.
Activites: Trekking
Accommodations: Camping
Access: Fly from Kathmandu- Nepalgunj
(60 min.) then fly to Chainpur
( Bajhang) 20 min. and
then a three-day walk or fly
Kathmandu-
Dhangadi ( 1hr. 10 min.) 670 km
by drive, then 10 hurs. Drive to
silgadi and then 1 day trek
Best Season: Mar-May and Oct-Nov (10-20)
degress Celsius); Jun- Sep (rainy),
Dec-Feb (snow)
Park Headquarter : Khaptad
Langtang National Park (1710 km2) and Buffer Zone (420 km2)
The park extends over parts of Nuwakot, Rasuwa and Sindhupalchok districts in the mountainous terrain of Nepal-China (Tibet) border. The chief attraction of this park is the Langtang range in the north and several lakes in the south. High-altitude jungles with diverse vegetation and wildlife, scenic lakes, glaciers and Hmalayan peaks combine to make Langtang an attractive destination for visitors. Twenty five percent of the park’s total area is covered by forest, starting at sub-tropical forests below 1,000 m giving way to alpine scrubs and grasslands towards higher altitude. Animals seen here are wild dog, red panda, pika, muntjac, musk deer, Himalayan black bear, Hmalayan tahr, ghoral, serow, rhesus monkey, common langur, snow leopard among others. Out of 373 species of birds commonly seen birds here are tragopan and impeyan pheasants.
The Langtang Valley is also renowned for its holy Lake Gosainkunda. Thousands of Hindu pilgrims visit the lake area every year, especially during the Janai Purnima festival every August.
Activities: Trekking mountaineering, experience of
Tamang culture
Accommodation : Lodges, camping
Access: From Dhunche which is 117 km
by road from Kathmadu
Best Season: Oct-Nov and Mar-May (cold at
higher elevation); Jun _ Sep
(monsoon), Dec-Feb (snow)
Park Headquarter : Dhunche
Makalu Barun National Park (1,500 km2) and Buffer Zone (830 km2)
The park spreads over the districts of Sankhuwasabha and Solukhumbu in north east Nepal. One of the prime attraction for visitors to the park is experience the unique Himalayan biodiversity. The vegetation ranges from sub tropical forests to sub alpine as the altitude increases. The park boasts of 48 species of orchids, 87 species of medicinal herbs, 25 of Nepal’s 30 varieties of rhododendron, 19 bamboo species, 15 oak species, 48 species of primrose and 86 species of fodder trees. The Park also offers bird-watching opportunities with its 400 species of birds, including the rare spotted wren babbler and the olive ground warbler. Wildlife include the endangered red panda, snow leopard. Himalayan black bear clouded leopard, ghoral, tahr, wild boar, barking deer, Himalayan marmot, weasel, langur monkey and serow. River Arun that flows through the park has 84 varieties of fish including salmon.
Activities: Trekking, mountaineering
Accomodation: Camping
Access: Fly to Tumlingtar from Kathmandu (40
mins.) and then a six-day walk
Best Season: Oct-Nov and Mar- Apr; Apr-May (hot
at lower elevations), Jun-Sep(monsoon)
Park Headquarter: Seduwa, Tel: 029-560136
Rara National Park (106 km2) and Buffer Zone (198 km2)
Rara National Park in the far north western part of the country offers a representative sample of the region’s flora fauna. Sprawled over Mugu biggest lake, Lake Rara, from where the park gets its name. The lake is as deep as 167m at some places, and drains into the River Mugu Karnali via Nijar Khola.
The park is mainly covered with coniferous forest while the area around the lake is dominated by blue pine. Rhododendron, juniper, spruce, oak and cypress are found around 3,000 m while at higher altitude pine, spruce and fir are more common. The rich vegetation of the park is a home to the endangered red panda, musk deer, Himalayan black bear, leopard, jackal, Himalayan tahr, wild yellow-throated martin, wild dog, wild boar, common langur, rhesus macaque and common otter. During winter the park abounds in 272 species of bird varieties like coots, great-crested grebe, black-necked grebe, are crested pochard, allard, common teal, merganserand gulls. Migrant water fowls and gallinaceous birds can also be seen during certain seasons. As for water life in the lake three species of snow trout is recorded so far.
Activities: Trekking
Accomodation: Camping, Lodge
Access: Fly from Kathmandu-Nepalgunj (1
hour); Nepalgunj-Talcha
Airport ( 35min).) then 2 hours trek
to Para lake
Best Season: Feb-Apr and Oct-Nov
Park Headquarter: Hutu
Sagarmatha National Park ( (1,148 jn2) and Buffer Zone (275km2)
The prime attraction in the Sagarmatha National Park is Mt. Everest, the highest peak of the world. The park was added to the list of world Heritage Site in 1979. The park, a part of the Hiamalayan ecological Zone, has several other prominent peaks most of which are above 6,000 m. With most of the park above 3,000 m, Sagarmatha is full of rugged terrain with deep gorges, glaciers and huge rocks. With its Himalayan terrain and its unique culture, the park offers a blend of natural and cultural tourist products here. The vegetation at lower elevation is dominated by pine and hemlock forests, while above 3,500 m the forest is dominated with silver fir, birch, rhododendron, and juniper tress, During spring and monsoon the varieties of rhododendron flowers are seen. The common wildlife in the park are Himalayan tahr, ghoral, musk deer, pikka (mouse hare) weasel, jackal. Other rarely seen animals are Himalayan black bear, wolf, lynx, and snow leopard. Birds inhabiting the park are of over 193 species. Common ones among them are the impeyan pheasant (Danphe), blood pheasant, red-billed chough, yellow- billed chough,. Snow cock, snow pigeon, Himalayan griffon, and lammergeyer, The national park also showcases the cultural trophies with the warm Sherpa hospitality and its many monasteries and cultural landmarks.
Activities: Trekking, mountaineering,
experience of Sherpa culture
Accommodation: Resort hotels, lodges, camping Fly
to Lukla which is 30 minutes by
air from Kathmandu
Best Season: Oct-Nov and Mar- May; Dec-Feb
(snow, daytime temperature
5degress Celsius),Jun-Sep (rainy)
Park Headquarter : Mendalphu, Namche Bazzar, Tel:
038-626043
Shey-Phoksundo National Park (3,555 km2) and Buffer Zone ( 1,349 km2)
Shey-Phoksundo National park is situated in the trans- Himalayan region of north-west Nepal. It is Nepal’s largest national park. With diverse terrain Mugu districts and supports a broad range of wildlife and vegetation. Geographical landmarks of the park are the Himalayan peaks in the north and lake Phoksundo, in the southern region. Vegetation include pine, walnut, willow, oak, and cypress in the lower altitude and pine, spruce, juniper and birch at higher regions. Berberis, wild rose and caragana are seen in alpine areas while the regions higher up are mostly arid with grass alpine meadows with barely any tress. The park contains 286 flora species of botanical importance. Animals found in the region are sheep, ghoral. musk deer, leopard, wild dog, marmot, weasel, mouse hare, rhesus and langur monkeys, Himalayan tahr, Himalayan black bear and jackals. In the upper region is seen the rare and endangered snow leopard. Over 200 species of birds including yellow- throated marten, Tibetan partridge, wood snipe, white- throated tit, wood accentor, & crimson-eared rose finch are found in the park,. Other species of birds fond here are Impeyan, cheer pheasant, chough, ravens,. Tibetan snow cock, Tibetan twit, brown dipper, Himalayan griffon & lammergeyer, Apart form these, the park is home to 6 species of reptiles and 29 species of butterfly.
Activities: Trekking, mountaineering
Accomodation: Camping
Access: Fly to Dolpa’s Jufal airport from
Nepalgunj (20 min) and then a
three-day walk
Best Season: Mar-May and Sep-Oct
Park Heaquarter: Sumduwa, Tel; 087-550104
Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park ( 159 sq km2)
Popular as trekking, hiking and recreation area, the Park offers the nearest retreat from Kathmandu. The park was established as a Watershed and Wildlife Reserve in 1976 for the protection of its flora and fauna. Vegetation varieties in the park include it s 129 species of mushrooms while animals include 19 species of mammals including Himalayan black bear, leopard, barking deer, wild boar, wildcat, rhesus monkey. The park also boasts of 177 species of birds and 102 species of butterflies.
Activities: Hiking, rockclimbing, bird watching
Access: Drive from Kathmandu city centre
to buddhanilkantha tample ( 11km),
then trek.
Best Season: Sep-May; Jun-Aug(rainy)
Park Headquarter: Shivapuri, Tel:01-
4370355/4374830
Koshitappu Wildlife Reserve (175 km2) and Buffer Zone (173 km2)
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve has carved a place for itself as bird watcher’s paradise. The reserve spreads over Saptari and Sunsari districts East Nepal over the embankments of River Koshi. The reserve has been recognized as a Wetland Site from 1987.The vegetation of the reserve is mainly grassland with patches of scrub and deciduous riverine forests. The reserve has recorded around 479 species of bird variety, some of which fly all the way from Siberia during winter. A wide variety of ducks, herons, storks, egrets, ibis are seen on the riverbanks. Koshi Tappu wildlife Reserve also has one of the few elephant stables of Asia. Other animals found here are wild buffalo, wild boar, hog deer, spotted deer, blue bull and jackal, Gharial crocodile and Gangetic dolphin are also found here.
Activities: Game viewing, bird watchng
Accommodation: Resorts, tented camp
Access: 90- minute drive (40km) from
Biratnagar which is 50 minutes by
air or 500km by road from
Kathmandu
Best Season: Oct-Mar; Apr-Jun (hot) Jul-Sep
(rainy)
Reserve Headquarter: Kusaha, Tel: 025-530897
Parsa Wildlife Reserve (499 km2) and Buffer Zone (298.2 km2)
The Parsa Wildlife Reserve spreads over parts of chitwan, Makawanpur, Parsa and Bara districts.The vegetation is tropical and sub tropical mostly covered with Sal forests, while the hills are covered with Sal forests, while the hills are covered with chir pine. Khair, sissoo and silkcotton are found along water areas. The reserve provides good habitat for animals like wild elephant, tiger, leopard, sloth bear, gaur, blue bull and wild dog. Other common animals in the reserve are sambar, chital. Hog deer, barking deer, langur monkey, rhesus macaques, striped hyena, rat, palm civet and jungle cat. There are 370 species of birds founding the reserve, one being the endangered great horbbill found in certain parts of the forest. Other bird species include peafowl, red jungle fowl, flycatchers and woodpeckers. Apart from birds and animals the reserve is also habitated by snakes like king cobra, common cobra, krait, rat snake and python.
Activities: Jungle safari on elephant-back, jungle
walk, jeep drive
Access: Fly to Simara from Kathmandu (15)
minutes) and then by road to the reserve
headquarters (7 km), or overland from
Kathmandu (150 km via Hetauda
Best Season: Oct- Mar; Apr-Jun (hot, 30-35 degress
Celsius), Jul-Sep (Monsoon)
Reserve Headquarter: Adhabar, Tel: 053-
521051,520246
Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve
(305 km2) and Buffer Zone (243.5 km2)
Shuklaphanta wildlife Reserve is located in the far- eastern lowland Terai of Nepal. The pristine sub-tropical jungle makes Shuklaphanta Nepal’s grasslands and numerous waterholes of the park extend into a vast expanse of plain grasslands and Sal forests, while marsh vegetation is found along rivers and lakes. The reserve that was originally a hunting area was later converted to wildlife reserve to protect swamp deer. There serve now shelters almost 2,000 swam deer, around 50 wild elephants and 30 tigers. Other animals found here are spotted deer, blue bulls, barking deer, hog deer, wild boars, leopards, jackals,
langurs and rhesus monkeys. Among birds the reserve provides habitat to sarus crane, swamp francolin, grass owl, warblers, flycatchers, and the endangered Bengal florican. Reptile species include marsh mugger, crocodile, cobra and python.
Activities: Wildlife viewing on elephant-back
Accomodation: Jungle lodges
Access: Fly or drive (1hr. 10min.) to
Dhangadi (670 km from
Kathmandu), than 1 hour 30 min.
drive (60 km)
Best Season: Oct-Mar; Apr-Jun(hot, up to 42
degress Celsius), Jul-Sep (rainy)
Reserve Headquarter: Majhgaon, Kanchanpur,
Tel:0521309
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve (1,325 km2)
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is the only area in Nepal where licensed hunting is allowed. The reserve adjoins Myagdi district and Baglung district, just below the Dhaulagiri range in West Nepal. The reserve begins at 3,000 m reaches as high as 7,000 m. Trees like fir, pine, birch, rhododendron, hemlock, oak, juniper and spruce are available in the reserve, One of the prime attractions or hunters is the blue sheep, which is abundant in the area. Hunters also get pheasants and partridges in viable numbers of hunting. Other animals found here are leopard, ghoral, serow, Himalayan tahr, Himalayan black bear, barking deer, wild boar, rhesus macaque, langur and mouse hare, Endangered animals in the reserve are musk deer, wolf, red panda, cheer pheasant and Danphe.
Activities: Trophy hunting, game viewing
Accommodation: Camping
Access: Four Days’ walk from Baglung
which is 72 km from Pokhara by
road
Best Season: Mar-Apr, Oct-Nov; Jul-Sep
(monsson), Dec-Feb (cold, windy,
snow)
Reserve Headquarter: Dhorpatan, Tel: 068-521112
Annapurna Conservation Area (7,629 km2)
The Annapurana Conservation Area is one the best trekking trails iin the world. The area spreads around Kaski, Manang and Lamjung districts of Central Nepal. Starting with an altitude of 790m, the area reaches as high as 8,091 m of Mt. Annapurna. Ghandruk is the first experience and further down is Ghorepani that provides fantastic panoramic view of the Annapurna ranges. Equally eye catching are hills of rhododendron that blossom every spring. The trek southeast from Jomsom, leads to the scenic Tilicho Lake area at an altitude of 4,919m. In the circuit route, is the famous Hindu religious sites Muktinath Temple. The vegetation in this region includes various species of orchids and rhododendron. Wildlife includes 102 different kinds of mammals including rare endangered snow leopards and a very god population of blue sheep. The region also boasts of around 474 species of birds including multi-colored impheyan, koklas and blood pheasants. In addition the region is also home to 39 species of reptiles and 22 species of amphibians.
Activities: Trekking, mountaineering
Accommodation: Resort hotels, lodges, camping
Access: From Pokhara which is 202 km by
road or 30 minutes by air from
Kathmandu
Best Season: March – May, Sep – Nov
ACAP Headquarter: Hariyo Kharka, Pokhara, Tel:
061- 431102, 430802
Kanchenjunga Conservation Area ( 2,035 km2)
Situated in noth-eastern Nepal in the district of Taplejung, the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area is bordered by the Tibet –China in the north, Sikkim-India in the east and Sankhuwasabha district in the west. The area has alpine grasslands, low river valleys with temperate and sub-0tropical forests. Ten species among Nepal’s 23 endemic flowering plants are found in this region. In addition, almost 30 varieties of rhododendron species and 48 varieties of orchids are found here. Wildlife includes endangered snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, musk deer, red panda, blue sheep and rhesus monkey. About 252 species of different birds including impheyan pheasant, re-billed blue magpie, shy drongo are found in the area.
Activities: Trekking, mountaineering
Accommodation: Tea houses, Camping
Access: Fly to Taplejung via Biratnagar
from Kathmandu
Best Season: March – May; Sep – Nov
Park Headquarter: Lelep, Tel: 024-46008
Manaslu Conservation Area (1,663 km2)
The Manaslu area in Gorkha district is a classic setting to experience pristine mountain nature and culture. The conservation area starts at 600m and is crowned by the eighth highest peak in the world Mt. Manaslu at 8,163m. The region is home to 33 species of mammals including snow leopard, musk deer and Himalayan Tahr. There are over 110 species of birds and three species of reptiles and over 1,500-2,000 species of flowering plants.
Activities: Trekking, mountaineering
Accommodation: Camping, lodges
Access: By bus to Dhading(87 km from
Kathmandu) or to Besi Sahar (106
km from Pokhara) and then
trekking
Best Season: March – May; Sep – Nov
Park Headquarter : Prok
New Conservation Areas
Api Nampa Conservation Area lies in the District of Darchula consisting of 21 Village Development Committees with an area of 1903 square kilometer. Snow leopard, musk deer and clouded leopard, Goral, Himalayan Back bear, Himalayan Tahr are found in the area.
Blackbuck Conservation Area lies in Bardia district covering an area of 15.95 sq. km. This is the first organized effort to conserve the already endangered Blackbuck (Antelope cervicapra cervicapra).
Gaurishankar Conservation Area comprises of Sagarmatha National park and Buffer zone in the east and Langtang National Park and Buffer zone in the west, Tibet Autonomous Region of China in the north consisting of 2179 sq. km consisting of areas from three Districts – Ramechhap, Dolakha , Sindhupalchowk with Headquarter in Charikot.
Wildlife Reserves and Conservation Area of Nepal
The geography of Nepal can be divided into high mountains, mid hills and low lands. A wide range of ecosystem from sub-tropical jungles of the Terai to the arctic conditions of Himalayan highlands are found within an area of 147,181 sq km.
There are a total of 9 national parks, 3 wildlife reserve, 6 conservation areas, 1 hunting reserve including 11 buffer zone areas in an around protected areas, covering a total of 28998.67 sq km. (19.70%) of the country’s total land. Nepal’s rich bio-diversity renders it ideal as an eco-tourism destination.
Bardia National Park(968 km2) and Buffer Zone ( 328km2)
The Bardia National Park is the largest and most undisturbed protected area in the Terai and is home to the endangered Royal Bengal tiger and Nepal’s famous one-horned rhinoceros. The national park located in the mid western district of Bardia, is bordered by River Karnali in the west, the Churia range in the park. The varied geographical factors together with the thick cover of Sal, savannah forests and grasslands render this region ideal as wild animal habitat. The park hosts 53 different mammals more than 400 species of birds, and several varieties of reptiles and water animals. Some of the other animals found here are elephant, swamp deer, black buck, gharial crocodile and marsh mugger crocodile. The fresh-water Gangetic dolphin is also commonly seen in River karnali. Birds include endangered varieties of Bengal florican, lesser florican, silvereared mesia and saruscrane. The park offers the rare opportunity of angling at River Karnali and River Babai.
Activities: Jungle safari on elephant-back, jungle walk, boat ride, jeep drive
Accommodation: Jungle lodges
Access: Three hours drive (95 km) from
Nepalgunj which is 1 hour by air or
516 km by road from Kathmandu
Best Season: Oct-Mar; Apr-Jun (hot, up to 42
degress Celsius), Jul-Sep (rainy)
Park Headquarter: Thakurdwara, Tel 084-429719
Chitwan National Park
Owing to its rich adornment of nature, Chitwan National Park was declared UNESCO Natural Heritage Site in 1984. The Park that includes in its area a part of the Shivalik Hills, is covered with deciduous forests overlooking the flood plains of Narayani, Rapti Reu rivers and offering a wilderness of rich ecosystem that includes mammals,birds,reptiles and water animals of several kinds. There are around 600 plant species, 56 mammals, 539 birds and 49 amphibians and reptiles found in the park. The highlight are the 412 Asian one-horned rhinoceros and some 59 Royal Bengal tigers that live in the dense forests of the park. Sharing home with these are other animals like rhesus monkey,langur,deer,leopards, gaur, wild boar, wild dogs and wild cats. Among reptiles are different kinds of snakes including the python, while the river areas breed reptiles like the endangered long snouted gharial popularity known as Gangetic crocodile and marsh crocodiles. The forest is alive during flycatcher, Indian pitta and parakeets, while winter birds include waterfowl, Brahminy ducks, pintails,bar-headed geese, cormorants and migratory birds from Siberia. Other bird varieties are wood peckers, hornbills, peacocks, peahens, floricans and redheaded trogons. A rare attraction of the park is the world’s fresh-water dolphin sometimes seen in River Narayani. Another factor adding a district touch to the Chitwan experience is the colorful Tharu culture. There are also sites of religious and historical importance at Devghat, Pandavnagar, Balmiki Ashram and Kabilaspur.
Activities: Jungle safari on elephant-back,
jungle walk, canoe ride, jeep drive,
experience of Tharu culture
Accommodation: Resort hotels and lodges
Access: The park headquarters at Kasara is
a 21 km drive from Bharatpur
which is 20 minutes by air or 146
km by road from Kathmandu
Best Season: Oct-Mar ( average temperature 25
_ Jun ( hot, up to 43 degress), Jul-
Sep (rainy)
Park Headquarter: Kasara, Tel: 056529405
Khaptad National Park( 25KM2 and Buffer Zone(216 km2 )
Khaptad National Park in west Nepal is the home of Late Khaptad Swami, the renowned scholar and a hermit. The park with rolling hills of grasslands and forests of subtropical, temperate and sub alpine vegetation, is also a rich natural habitat. The park boasts of 224 species of medicinal herbs and offers excellent bird watching opportunities, with 270 species of birds, the common ones being different varieties of impheyan pheasant, partridges, flycatchers, bulbuls, cuckoos and eagles. Animals in the park are barking deer, wild boar, ghoral, Himalayan black bear, yellow-throated marten, rhesus monkey and langur monkey. The park also offers religious sightseeing at Tribeni on the way to its headquarters.There are several historical temples surrounding this area and an annual celebration of Ganga Dashhara is held here every Jestha Purnima.
Another religious site is Sahashra Linga at 3,200 m, the highest point of the park, Other religious areas in the park include Ganesh Temple, Nagdhunga, and Kedardhunga. These areas are ideal places for mediation. Towards the northeast of the park is Khapdat Lake where a festival is held every August and September.
Activites: Trekking
Accommodations: Camping
Access: Fly from Kathmandu- Nepalgunj
(60 min.) then fly to Chainpur
( Bajhang) 20 min. and
then a three-day walk or fly
Kathmandu-
Dhangadi ( 1hr. 10 min.) 670 km
by drive, then 10 hurs. Drive to
silgadi and then 1 day trek
Best Season: Mar-May and Oct-Nov (10-20)
degress Celsius); Jun- Sep (rainy),
Dec-Feb (snow)
Park Headquarter : Khaptad
Langtang National Park (1710 km2) and Buffer Zone (420 km2)
The park extends over parts of Nuwakot, Rasuwa and Sindhupalchok districts in the mountainous terrain of Nepal-China (Tibet) border. The chief attraction of this park is the Langtang range in the north and several lakes in the south. High-altitude jungles with diverse vegetation and wildlife, scenic lakes, glaciers and Hmalayan peaks combine to make Langtang an attractive destination for visitors. Twenty five percent of the park’s total area is covered by forest, starting at sub-tropical forests below 1,000 m giving way to alpine scrubs and grasslands towards higher altitude. Animals seen here are wild dog, red panda, pika, muntjac, musk deer, Himalayan black bear, Hmalayan tahr, ghoral, serow, rhesus monkey, common langur, snow leopard among others. Out of 373 species of birds commonly seen birds here are tragopan and impeyan pheasants.
The Langtang Valley is also renowned for its holy Lake Gosainkunda. Thousands of Hindu pilgrims visit the lake area every year, especially during the Janai Purnima festival every August.
Activities: Trekking mountaineering, experience of
Tamang culture
Accommodation : Lodges, camping
Access: From Dhunche which is 117 km
by road from Kathmadu
Best Season: Oct-Nov and Mar-May (cold at
higher elevation); Jun _ Sep
(monsoon), Dec-Feb (snow)
Park Headquarter : Dhunche
Makalu Barun National Park (1,500 km2) and Buffer Zone (830 km2)
The park spreads over the districts of Sankhuwasabha and Solukhumbu in north east Nepal. One of the prime attraction for visitors to the park is experience the unique Himalayan biodiversity. The vegetation ranges from sub tropical forests to sub alpine as the altitude increases. The park boasts of 48 species of orchids, 87 species of medicinal herbs, 25 of Nepal’s 30 varieties of rhododendron, 19 bamboo species, 15 oak species, 48 species of primrose and 86 species of fodder trees. The Park also offers bird-watching opportunities with its 400 species of birds, including the rare spotted wren babbler and the olive ground warbler. Wildlife include the endangered red panda, snow leopard. Himalayan black bear clouded leopard, ghoral, tahr, wild boar, barking deer, Himalayan marmot, weasel, langur monkey and serow. River Arun that flows through the park has 84 varieties of fish including salmon.
Activities: Trekking, mountaineering
Accomodation: Camping
Access: Fly to Tumlingtar from Kathmandu (40
mins.) and then a six-day walk
Best Season: Oct-Nov and Mar- Apr; Apr-May (hot
at lower elevations), Jun-Sep(monsoon)
Park Headquarter: Seduwa, Tel: 029-560136
Rara National Park (106 km2) and Buffer Zone (198 km2)
Rara National Park in the far north western part of the country offers a representative sample of the region’s flora fauna. Sprawled over Mugu biggest lake, Lake Rara, from where the park gets its name. The lake is as deep as 167m at some places, and drains into the River Mugu Karnali via Nijar Khola.
The park is mainly covered with coniferous forest while the area around the lake is dominated by blue pine. Rhododendron, juniper, spruce, oak and cypress are found around 3,000 m while at higher altitude pine, spruce and fir are more common. The rich vegetation of the park is a home to the endangered red panda, musk deer, Himalayan black bear, leopard, jackal, Himalayan tahr, wild yellow-throated martin, wild dog, wild boar, common langur, rhesus macaque and common otter. During winter the park abounds in 272 species of bird varieties like coots, great-crested grebe, black-necked grebe, are crested pochard, allard, common teal, merganserand gulls. Migrant water fowls and gallinaceous birds can also be seen during certain seasons. As for water life in the lake three species of snow trout is recorded so far.
Activities: Trekking
Accomodation: Camping, Lodge
Access: Fly from Kathmandu-Nepalgunj (1
hour); Nepalgunj-Talcha
Airport ( 35min).) then 2 hours trek
to Para lake
Best Season: Feb-Apr and Oct-Nov
Park Headquarter: Hutu
Sagarmatha National Park ( (1,148 jn2) and Buffer Zone (275km2)
The prime attraction in the Sagarmatha National Park is Mt. Everest, the highest peak of the world. The park was added to the list of world Heritage Site in 1979. The park, a part of the Hiamalayan ecological Zone, has several other prominent peaks most of which are above 6,000 m. With most of the park above 3,000 m, Sagarmatha is full of rugged terrain with deep gorges, glaciers and huge rocks. With its Himalayan terrain and its unique culture, the park offers a blend of natural and cultural tourist products here. The vegetation at lower elevation is dominated by pine and hemlock forests, while above 3,500 m the forest is dominated with silver fir, birch, rhododendron, and juniper tress, During spring and monsoon the varieties of rhododendron flowers are seen. The common wildlife in the park are Himalayan tahr, ghoral, musk deer, pikka (mouse hare) weasel, jackal. Other rarely seen animals are Himalayan black bear, wolf, lynx, and snow leopard. Birds inhabiting the park are of over 193 species. Common ones among them are the impeyan pheasant (Danphe), blood pheasant, red-billed chough, yellow- billed chough,. Snow cock, snow pigeon, Himalayan griffon, and lammergeyer, The national park also showcases the cultural trophies with the warm Sherpa hospitality and its many monasteries and cultural landmarks.
Activities: Trekking, mountaineering,
experience of Sherpa culture
Accommodation: Resort hotels, lodges, camping Fly
to Lukla which is 30 minutes by
air from Kathmandu
Best Season: Oct-Nov and Mar- May; Dec-Feb
(snow, daytime temperature
5degress Celsius),Jun-Sep (rainy)
Park Headquarter : Mendalphu, Namche Bazzar, Tel:
038-626043
Shey-Phoksundo National Park (3,555 km2) and Buffer Zone ( 1,349 km2)
Shey-Phoksundo National park is situated in the trans- Himalayan region of north-west Nepal. It is Nepal’s largest national park. With diverse terrain Mugu districts and supports a broad range of wildlife and vegetation. Geographical landmarks of the park are the Himalayan peaks in the north and lake Phoksundo, in the southern region. Vegetation include pine, walnut, willow, oak, and cypress in the lower altitude and pine, spruce, juniper and birch at higher regions. Berberis, wild rose and caragana are seen in alpine areas while the regions higher up are mostly arid with grass alpine meadows with barely any tress. The park contains 286 flora species of botanical importance. Animals found in the region are sheep, ghoral. musk deer, leopard, wild dog, marmot, weasel, mouse hare, rhesus and langur monkeys, Himalayan tahr, Himalayan black bear and jackals. In the upper region is seen the rare and endangered snow leopard. Over 200 species of birds including yellow- throated marten, Tibetan partridge, wood snipe, white- throated tit, wood accentor, & crimson-eared rose finch are found in the park,. Other species of birds fond here are Impeyan, cheer pheasant, chough, ravens,. Tibetan snow cock, Tibetan twit, brown dipper, Himalayan griffon & lammergeyer, Apart form these, the park is home to 6 species of reptiles and 29 species of butterfly.
Activities: Trekking, mountaineering
Accomodation: Camping
Access: Fly to Dolpa’s Jufal airport from
Nepalgunj (20 min) and then a
three-day walk
Best Season: Mar-May and Sep-Oct
Park Heaquarter: Sumduwa, Tel; 087-550104
Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park ( 159 sq km2)
Popular as trekking, hiking and recreation area, the Park offers the nearest retreat from Kathmandu. The park was established as a Watershed and Wildlife Reserve in 1976 for the protection of its flora and fauna. Vegetation varieties in the park include it s 129 species of mushrooms while animals include 19 species of mammals including Himalayan black bear, leopard, barking deer, wild boar, wildcat, rhesus monkey. The park also boasts of 177 species of birds and 102 species of butterflies.
Activities: Hiking, rockclimbing, bird watching
Access: Drive from Kathmandu city centre
to buddhanilkantha tample ( 11km),
then trek.
Best Season: Sep-May; Jun-Aug(rainy)
Park Headquarter: Shivapuri, Tel:01-
4370355/4374830
Koshitappu Wildlife Reserve (175 km2) and Buffer Zone (173 km2)
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve has carved a place for itself as bird watcher’s paradise. The reserve spreads over Saptari and Sunsari districts East Nepal over the embankments of River Koshi. The reserve has been recognized as a Wetland Site from 1987.The vegetation of the reserve is mainly grassland with patches of scrub and deciduous riverine forests. The reserve has recorded around 479 species of bird variety, some of which fly all the way from Siberia during winter. A wide variety of ducks, herons, storks, egrets, ibis are seen on the riverbanks. Koshi Tappu wildlife Reserve also has one of the few elephant stables of Asia. Other animals found here are wild buffalo, wild boar, hog deer, spotted deer, blue bull and jackal, Gharial crocodile and Gangetic dolphin are also found here.
Activities: Game viewing, bird watchng
Accommodation: Resorts, tented camp
Access: 90- minute drive (40km) from
Biratnagar which is 50 minutes by
air or 500km by road from
Kathmandu
Best Season: Oct-Mar; Apr-Jun (hot) Jul-Sep
(rainy)
Reserve Headquarter: Kusaha, Tel: 025-530897
Parsa Wildlife Reserve (499 km2) and Buffer Zone (298.2 km2)
The Parsa Wildlife Reserve spreads over parts of chitwan, Makawanpur, Parsa and Bara districts.The vegetation is tropical and sub tropical mostly covered with Sal forests, while the hills are covered with Sal forests, while the hills are covered with chir pine. Khair, sissoo and silkcotton are found along water areas. The reserve provides good habitat for animals like wild elephant, tiger, leopard, sloth bear, gaur, blue bull and wild dog. Other common animals in the reserve are sambar, chital. Hog deer, barking deer, langur monkey, rhesus macaques, striped hyena, rat, palm civet and jungle cat. There are 370 species of birds founding the reserve, one being the endangered great horbbill found in certain parts of the forest. Other bird species include peafowl, red jungle fowl, flycatchers and woodpeckers. Apart from birds and animals the reserve is also habitated by snakes like king cobra, common cobra, krait, rat snake and python.
Activities: Jungle safari on elephant-back, jungle
walk, jeep drive
Access: Fly to Simara from Kathmandu (15)
minutes) and then by road to the reserve
headquarters (7 km), or overland from
Kathmandu (150 km via Hetauda
Best Season: Oct- Mar; Apr-Jun (hot, 30-35 degress
Celsius), Jul-Sep (Monsoon)
Reserve Headquarter: Adhabar, Tel: 053-
521051,520246
Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve
(305 km2) and Buffer Zone (243.5 km2)
Shuklaphanta wildlife Reserve is located in the far- eastern lowland Terai of Nepal. The pristine sub-tropical jungle makes Shuklaphanta Nepal’s grasslands and numerous waterholes of the park extend into a vast expanse of plain grasslands and Sal forests, while marsh vegetation is found along rivers and lakes. The reserve that was originally a hunting area was later converted to wildlife reserve to protect swamp deer. There serve now shelters almost 2,000 swam deer, around 50 wild elephants and 30 tigers. Other animals found here are spotted deer, blue bulls, barking deer, hog deer, wild boars, leopards, jackals,
langurs and rhesus monkeys. Among birds the reserve provides habitat to sarus crane, swamp francolin, grass owl, warblers, flycatchers, and the endangered Bengal florican. Reptile species include marsh mugger, crocodile, cobra and python.
Activities: Wildlife viewing on elephant-back
Accomodation: Jungle lodges
Access: Fly or drive (1hr. 10min.) to
Dhangadi (670 km from
Kathmandu), than 1 hour 30 min.
drive (60 km)
Best Season: Oct-Mar; Apr-Jun(hot, up to 42
degress Celsius), Jul-Sep (rainy)
Reserve Headquarter: Majhgaon, Kanchanpur,
Tel:0521309
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve (1,325 km2)
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is the only area in Nepal where licensed hunting is allowed. The reserve adjoins Myagdi district and Baglung district, just below the Dhaulagiri range in West Nepal. The reserve begins at 3,000 m reaches as high as 7,000 m. Trees like fir, pine, birch, rhododendron, hemlock, oak, juniper and spruce are available in the reserve, One of the prime attractions or hunters is the blue sheep, which is abundant in the area. Hunters also get pheasants and partridges in viable numbers of hunting. Other animals found here are leopard, ghoral, serow, Himalayan tahr, Himalayan black bear, barking deer, wild boar, rhesus macaque, langur and mouse hare, Endangered animals in the reserve are musk deer, wolf, red panda, cheer pheasant and Danphe.
Activities: Trophy hunting, game viewing
Accommodation: Camping
Access: Four Days’ walk from Baglung
which is 72 km from Pokhara by
road
Best Season: Mar-Apr, Oct-Nov; Jul-Sep
(monsson), Dec-Feb (cold, windy,
snow)
Reserve Headquarter: Dhorpatan, Tel: 068-521112
Annapurna Conservation Area (7,629 km2)
The Annapurana Conservation Area is one the best trekking trails iin the world. The area spreads around Kaski, Manang and Lamjung districts of Central Nepal. Starting with an altitude of 790m, the area reaches as high as 8,091 m of Mt. Annapurna. Ghandruk is the first experience and further down is Ghorepani that provides fantastic panoramic view of the Annapurna ranges. Equally eye catching are hills of rhododendron that blossom every spring. The trek southeast from Jomsom, leads to the scenic Tilicho Lake area at an altitude of 4,919m. In the circuit route, is the famous Hindu religious sites Muktinath Temple. The vegetation in this region includes various species of orchids and rhododendron. Wildlife includes 102 different kinds of mammals including rare endangered snow leopards and a very god population of blue sheep. The region also boasts of around 474 species of birds including multi-colored impheyan, koklas and blood pheasants. In addition the region is also home to 39 species of reptiles and 22 species of amphibians.
Activities: Trekking, mountaineering
Accommodation: Resort hotels, lodges, camping
Access: From Pokhara which is 202 km by
road or 30 minutes by air from
Kathmandu
Best Season: March – May, Sep – Nov
ACAP Headquarter: Hariyo Kharka, Pokhara, Tel:
061- 431102, 430802
Kanchenjunga Conservation Area ( 2,035 km2)
Situated in noth-eastern Nepal in the district of Taplejung, the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area is bordered by the Tibet –China in the north, Sikkim-India in the east and Sankhuwasabha district in the west. The area has alpine grasslands, low river valleys with temperate and sub-0tropical forests. Ten species among Nepal’s 23 endemic flowering plants are found in this region. In addition, almost 30 varieties of rhododendron species and 48 varieties of orchids are found here. Wildlife includes endangered snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, musk deer, red panda, blue sheep and rhesus monkey. About 252 species of different birds including impheyan pheasant, re-billed blue magpie, shy drongo are found in the area.
Activities: Trekking, mountaineering
Accommodation: Tea houses, Camping
Access: Fly to Taplejung via Biratnagar
from Kathmandu
Best Season: March – May; Sep – Nov
Park Headquarter: Lelep, Tel: 024-46008
Manaslu Conservation Area (1,663 km2)
The Manaslu area in Gorkha district is a classic setting to experience pristine mountain nature and culture. The conservation area starts at 600m and is crowned by the eighth highest peak in the world Mt. Manaslu at 8,163m. The region is home to 33 species of mammals including snow leopard, musk deer and Himalayan Tahr. There are over 110 species of birds and three species of reptiles and over 1,500-2,000 species of flowering plants.
Activities: Trekking, mountaineering
Accommodation: Camping, lodges
Access: By bus to Dhading(87 km from
Kathmandu) or to Besi Sahar (106
km from Pokhara) and then
trekking
Best Season: March – May; Sep – Nov
Park Headquarter : Prok
New Conservation Areas
Api Nampa Conservation Area lies in the District of Darchula consisting of 21 Village Development Committees with an area of 1903 square kilometer. Snow leopard, musk deer and clouded leopard, Goral, Himalayan Back bear, Himalayan Tahr are found in the area.
Blackbuck Conservation Area lies in Bardia district covering an area of 15.95 sq. km. This is the first organized effort to conserve the already endangered Blackbuck (Antelope cervicapra cervicapra).
Gaurishankar Conservation Area comprises of Sagarmatha National park and Buffer zone in the east and Langtang National Park and Buffer zone in the west, Tibet Autonomous Region of China in the north consisting of 2179 sq. km consisting of areas from three Districts – Ramechhap, Dolakha , Sindhupalchowk with Headquarter in Charikot.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
THE MOST DRAMATIC LANDSCAPES ON EARTH
Nepal is a blend ancient history, vibrant cultures and scenic grandeur, Located between China and India. Nepal’s main geographical features include snow-capped peaks. Lower mountains, mid hills and fertile Terai plains of tropical jungles. Early e-third of the total length of the Himalayas and 8 of the world 14 highest peaks are in Nepal. The landlocked country covers an area 147,181sq. kilometers ranging from 70 meters to the highest point at 8,848 meters above sea level. Nepal’s popularity as a tourist destination has increased vastly over the years, While trekking and mountaineering have long been popular. An entire range of other activities are carried out. With the variety of adventure options, the country is a favorite among adventure lovers.
TREKKING
Trekking is the highlight of a visit to Nepal. The range of geographical features, variety of vegetation and rich Himalayan culture award trekkers with unique trekking experience. Thousands of visitors trek to different parts of Nepal every year to experience the charm of nature and culture. Most treks go through altitude between 1000 to 4000 meters, while some popular parts reach over 5000 meters.
Protected regions along the Himalayas like Shey-Phoksundo, Langtang, Sagarmatha, Makalu- Barun , Rara, Kanchenjunga and Shgivapuri national parks, and Annapurna and Manaslu conservation areas, Provide excellent trekking options. For group trekkers arrangement for food and accommodation are managed by the trekking crew, while independent trekkers can find night rest and food halt at small lodges and tea houses that dot the main trails. Independent trekkers should be self sufficient. As per new regulations, all trekkers are required to carry TIMS Card on their trek ( see behind for details). For further details on trekking information please log on to www.taan.org.np ( official web site of Trekking Agencies Association of Nepali).
BOATING
From glacier-fed lakes up north to where rivers ease into the Terai plains, there are numerous lakes in Nepal where tourists can experience the pleasures of boating. With famous lakes like Phewa, Begnas and Rupa, Pokhara is known as the lake city and a popular place to go boating.
In the Terai, one can go canoeing on Narayani or Rapti rivers near Chitwan National Park. Boats and canoes can be rented from local dealers on hourly basis from nearby areas. Pokhara and Chitwan are accessible both by air and road from Kathmandu. A wide variety of accommodation ad other facilities are easily available in both the places.
ROCK CLIMBING
Rock climbing is challenging sport for outdoor lovers. Most of the areas for rock climbing are situated towards the north of Katmandu in the Nagarjun forest and Shivapuri National Park areas. Trip to these places can be combined with hiking, bird watching, nature tours and other activities. Nagarjun, 3 kilometers from Kathmandu city can be reached via Balaju near the New Bus Park, Shivapuri, cab reached via Budhanilkanth which is 9 Kilometers outside the city area in Kathmandu.
BUNGY JUMPING
The ultimate thrill of bungy jumping is offered at one the best sites in the world . Nepal’s bungy jumpig site is situated 160 meters over the raging Bhote Koshi river in the northern part of the Country. The site is located close to the Nepal- China border at Barahbise and is 3 hour bus ride form Kathmandu. A package deal includes the jump, bus ride to the site and meals.Nepalis are entitled to a 30 percent discount. Accommodation and other facilities are available in barahbise.
JUNGLE SAFARI
The tropical jungles of Nepal’s Terai preserve some the best wildlife habitat in the subcontinent. Jungle safaris on elephant back or jeep rides are offered at Chitwan National Park, Bardiya National Park, Parsa Wildlife Reserve, and Shuklaphanta wildlife Reserve m all located in Terai. Winter months here are temperate while summer and monsoons are hot and humid. A wide range of tourist facilities are available in an around the areas.
MOUNTAIN BIKING
Nepal’s diverse terrain is a mountain biker’s dream. Biking offers an environmentally sound way of exploring the Country. It is possible to go biking the entire length of Nepal. Centuries-old dirt roads and trails offer a chance to go on extended trips to exotic locales like Annapurna and Kanchenjunga areas. 21 to 27 gear bicycles are recommended when riding through Himalayan terrain. Mountain bikes are available for rent at numerous bicycle rental outlets in and around Kathmandu or Pokhara. Riders can explore rims and ridges of Kathmandu and Pokhara through off routes that weave in and out of the cities. Food and accommodation facilities are available along the main trails. It is recommednded to use the services of licensed biking companies. For more information please log on the www.bikehimalayas.com or www.cyclingnepal.com (official web site of Nepal Mountain Bike Tours).
MOUNTAINEERING
Mountaineering iw the prime attraction of Nepal. The mountains of Nepal have stood as irresistible landmarks of the world’s adventures since Nepal opened its doors to visitors in the 1950s.Mountaineering can range from climbing the highest peaks over 8000 meters to climbing lower peaks which even though considered minor by Himalayan standards are technically quite challenging. There are 33 “trekking peaks” opened by the Government. Mountaineering teams can apply for permit at mountaineering section of the Ministry of Tourism and civil Aviation .For further information please log on to www.tourism.gov.np ( official web site of the Ministry) or www.nepalmountaineering.org (official web site of the Nepal Mountaineering Association ).
Climbing gears can be bought or rented in Kathmnadu and Pokhara. Many of the mountaineering and trekkinig companies also offer packages, where they provide gear, food, transportation, guides, porter services and also arrange for insurance coverage. Orientation on altitude sickness, acclimatization process and safety measures is a must for every mountaineer. The fatal sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) cab be dangerous for climbers ascending 3000 meters and above. Symptoms include headache, loss of appetite and sleeplessness. Immediate descent of evacuation to lower altitude is the best cure for AMS. For further details on mountaineering safety and challenges please log on to www.himalayanrescue.org ( official web site of Himalayan Rescue Association ).
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS)
TIMS is a regulatory provision introduced by the Government of Nepal to ensure safety of trekkers and to control illegal trekking.Every trekker (FIT and group trekker )must obtain TIMS Card before entering the trekking region.TIMS Card can be obtained at NTB, Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal( TAAN)and Government registered trekking companies in Kathmandu and Pokhara.Official hours for TIMS are : same as Government working hours at NTB and TAAN; 12 hours every day throughout the year at trekking companies.TIMS is non-transferable, non-endorsable and valid only for single entry.To obtain TIMS Card, a copy of passport and two passport-size photographs are required.
For more information, please visit www.timsnepal.com
Nepal is a blend ancient history, vibrant cultures and scenic grandeur, Located between China and India. Nepal’s main geographical features include snow-capped peaks. Lower mountains, mid hills and fertile Terai plains of tropical jungles. Early e-third of the total length of the Himalayas and 8 of the world 14 highest peaks are in Nepal. The landlocked country covers an area 147,181sq. kilometers ranging from 70 meters to the highest point at 8,848 meters above sea level. Nepal’s popularity as a tourist destination has increased vastly over the years, While trekking and mountaineering have long been popular. An entire range of other activities are carried out. With the variety of adventure options, the country is a favorite among adventure lovers.
TREKKING
Trekking is the highlight of a visit to Nepal. The range of geographical features, variety of vegetation and rich Himalayan culture award trekkers with unique trekking experience. Thousands of visitors trek to different parts of Nepal every year to experience the charm of nature and culture. Most treks go through altitude between 1000 to 4000 meters, while some popular parts reach over 5000 meters.
Protected regions along the Himalayas like Shey-Phoksundo, Langtang, Sagarmatha, Makalu- Barun , Rara, Kanchenjunga and Shgivapuri national parks, and Annapurna and Manaslu conservation areas, Provide excellent trekking options. For group trekkers arrangement for food and accommodation are managed by the trekking crew, while independent trekkers can find night rest and food halt at small lodges and tea houses that dot the main trails. Independent trekkers should be self sufficient. As per new regulations, all trekkers are required to carry TIMS Card on their trek ( see behind for details). For further details on trekking information please log on to www.taan.org.np ( official web site of Trekking Agencies Association of Nepali).
BOATING
From glacier-fed lakes up north to where rivers ease into the Terai plains, there are numerous lakes in Nepal where tourists can experience the pleasures of boating. With famous lakes like Phewa, Begnas and Rupa, Pokhara is known as the lake city and a popular place to go boating.
In the Terai, one can go canoeing on Narayani or Rapti rivers near Chitwan National Park. Boats and canoes can be rented from local dealers on hourly basis from nearby areas. Pokhara and Chitwan are accessible both by air and road from Kathmandu. A wide variety of accommodation ad other facilities are easily available in both the places.
ROCK CLIMBING
Rock climbing is challenging sport for outdoor lovers. Most of the areas for rock climbing are situated towards the north of Katmandu in the Nagarjun forest and Shivapuri National Park areas. Trip to these places can be combined with hiking, bird watching, nature tours and other activities. Nagarjun, 3 kilometers from Kathmandu city can be reached via Balaju near the New Bus Park, Shivapuri, cab reached via Budhanilkanth which is 9 Kilometers outside the city area in Kathmandu.
BUNGY JUMPING
The ultimate thrill of bungy jumping is offered at one the best sites in the world . Nepal’s bungy jumpig site is situated 160 meters over the raging Bhote Koshi river in the northern part of the Country. The site is located close to the Nepal- China border at Barahbise and is 3 hour bus ride form Kathmandu. A package deal includes the jump, bus ride to the site and meals.Nepalis are entitled to a 30 percent discount. Accommodation and other facilities are available in barahbise.
JUNGLE SAFARI
The tropical jungles of Nepal’s Terai preserve some the best wildlife habitat in the subcontinent. Jungle safaris on elephant back or jeep rides are offered at Chitwan National Park, Bardiya National Park, Parsa Wildlife Reserve, and Shuklaphanta wildlife Reserve m all located in Terai. Winter months here are temperate while summer and monsoons are hot and humid. A wide range of tourist facilities are available in an around the areas.
MOUNTAIN BIKING
Nepal’s diverse terrain is a mountain biker’s dream. Biking offers an environmentally sound way of exploring the Country. It is possible to go biking the entire length of Nepal. Centuries-old dirt roads and trails offer a chance to go on extended trips to exotic locales like Annapurna and Kanchenjunga areas. 21 to 27 gear bicycles are recommended when riding through Himalayan terrain. Mountain bikes are available for rent at numerous bicycle rental outlets in and around Kathmandu or Pokhara. Riders can explore rims and ridges of Kathmandu and Pokhara through off routes that weave in and out of the cities. Food and accommodation facilities are available along the main trails. It is recommednded to use the services of licensed biking companies. For more information please log on the www.bikehimalayas.com or www.cyclingnepal.com (official web site of Nepal Mountain Bike Tours).
MOUNTAINEERING
Mountaineering iw the prime attraction of Nepal. The mountains of Nepal have stood as irresistible landmarks of the world’s adventures since Nepal opened its doors to visitors in the 1950s.Mountaineering can range from climbing the highest peaks over 8000 meters to climbing lower peaks which even though considered minor by Himalayan standards are technically quite challenging. There are 33 “trekking peaks” opened by the Government. Mountaineering teams can apply for permit at mountaineering section of the Ministry of Tourism and civil Aviation .For further information please log on to www.tourism.gov.np ( official web site of the Ministry) or www.nepalmountaineering.org (official web site of the Nepal Mountaineering Association ).
Climbing gears can be bought or rented in Kathmnadu and Pokhara. Many of the mountaineering and trekkinig companies also offer packages, where they provide gear, food, transportation, guides, porter services and also arrange for insurance coverage. Orientation on altitude sickness, acclimatization process and safety measures is a must for every mountaineer. The fatal sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) cab be dangerous for climbers ascending 3000 meters and above. Symptoms include headache, loss of appetite and sleeplessness. Immediate descent of evacuation to lower altitude is the best cure for AMS. For further details on mountaineering safety and challenges please log on to www.himalayanrescue.org ( official web site of Himalayan Rescue Association ).
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS)
TIMS is a regulatory provision introduced by the Government of Nepal to ensure safety of trekkers and to control illegal trekking.Every trekker (FIT and group trekker )must obtain TIMS Card before entering the trekking region.TIMS Card can be obtained at NTB, Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal( TAAN)and Government registered trekking companies in Kathmandu and Pokhara.Official hours for TIMS are : same as Government working hours at NTB and TAAN; 12 hours every day throughout the year at trekking companies.TIMS is non-transferable, non-endorsable and valid only for single entry.To obtain TIMS Card, a copy of passport and two passport-size photographs are required.
For more information, please visit www.timsnepal.com
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