.People of Nepal
Perched on the Southern slopes of the Himalayan Mountains, the Kingdom of Nepal is ethnically diverse. The Nepalese are descendants of three major migrations. These migrations have taken place from India, Tibet, and Central Asia. Among the earliest inhabitants were the Newar of the Kathmandu Valley and aboriginal Tharu in the southern Tarai region. The ancestors of the Brahman and Chetri caste groups came from India, while other ethnic groups trace their origins to Central Asia and Tibet, including the Gurung and Magar in the west, Rai and Limbu in the east, and Sherpa and Bhotia in the north.
In the Tarai, which is a part of the Ganges basin, much of the population is physically and culturally similar to the Indo-Aryan people of northern India. People of Indo-Aryan and Mongoloid stock live in the hill region. The mountainous highlands are sparsely populated. Kathmandu Valley, in the middle hill region, constitutes a small fraction of the nation's area but is the most densely populated, with almost 5% of the population.
Nepal's 2001 census enumerated 103 distinct caste/ethnic groups including an "unidentified group". The caste system of Nepal is rooted in the Hindu religion while the ethnic system is rooted in mutually exclusive origin myths, historical mutual seclusion and the occasional state intervention.
In FY 1985, more than US$40 million worth of foreign exchange was earned through tourism. By FY 1988, this amount had increased to more than US$64 million. In FY 1989, tourism accounted for more than 3.5 percent of GDP and about 25 percent of total foreign exchange earnings. The 1989 trade and transit impasse with India negatively affected tourism because the transport and service sectors of the economy lacked supplies. Beginning in FY 1990, however, Kathmandu initiated a policy to allocate fuel on a priority basis to tour operators and hotels.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Education in Nepal
Education in Nepal
Education in Nepal has only recently been developing and continues to improve. Several international organizations are involved in assisting Nepal with its education system and in educating children in rural areas of the country. Educational development in Nepal is vital to cut-down the poverty rate as well as promoting community development. With this in mind Nepal's government continues to undo the damage the previous governmental regime inflicted on Nepal's education system.
For many years, during the rule of Nepal by the Rana family, education was suppressed. The Rana regime feared a public that was educated. Prior to World War Two however English middle and high schools were established in several villages along with an all-girl's high school in Kathmandu. As Gurkha soldiers returned to the villages having learned to read and write, education became more important to local people. Soon high-caste families would send their children to university who in turn began the anti-Rana sentiment ending the oppressive regime in 1951. Despite the establishment of an education system in Nepal, poorer families could not afford to send their children to school and also wanted their children to work on the farms. Primary education was offered for free by the government as of 1975.
Nepal's education system has been largely based on that of the United States and has received much assistance in forming a curriculum from various NGO's. Primary education runs from grade 1 through 5. Secondary education consists of lower secondary (grade 6 to 8), upper secondary (grade 9 to 10) and higher secondary (grade 11 to 12). Students will receive a School Leaving Certificate after completing grade 10. The streams for higher secondary education are education, science, commerce and humanities after which they receive a Higher Secondary Certificate. Students have the option of attending Basic Technical Schools after grade 5 to be awarded a Training Level Certificate.
10.People of Nepal
Perched on the Southern slopes of the Himalayan Mountains, the Kingdom of Nepal is ethnically diverse. The Nepalese are descendants of three major migrations. These migrations have taken place from India, Tibet, and Central Asia. Among the earliest inhabitants were the Newar of the Kathmandu Valley and aboriginal Tharu in the southern Tarai region. The ancestors of the Brahman and Chetri caste groups came from India, while other ethnic groups trace their origins to Central Asia and Tibet, including the Gurung and Magar in the west, Rai and Limbu in the east, and Sherpa and Bhotia in the north.
In the Tarai, which is a part of the Ganges basin, much of the population is physically and culturally similar to the Indo-Aryan people of northern India. People of Indo-Aryan and Mongoloid stock live in the hill region. The mountainous highlands are sparsely populated. Kathmandu Valley, in the middle hill region, constitutes a small fraction of the nation's area but is the most densely populated, with almost 5% of the population.
Nepal's 2001 census enumerated 103 distinct caste/ethnic groups including an "unidentified group". The caste system of Nepal is rooted in the Hindu religion while the ethnic system is rooted in mutually exclusive origin myths, historical mutual seclusion and the occasional state intervention.
Education in Nepal has only recently been developing and continues to improve. Several international organizations are involved in assisting Nepal with its education system and in educating children in rural areas of the country. Educational development in Nepal is vital to cut-down the poverty rate as well as promoting community development. With this in mind Nepal's government continues to undo the damage the previous governmental regime inflicted on Nepal's education system.
For many years, during the rule of Nepal by the Rana family, education was suppressed. The Rana regime feared a public that was educated. Prior to World War Two however English middle and high schools were established in several villages along with an all-girl's high school in Kathmandu. As Gurkha soldiers returned to the villages having learned to read and write, education became more important to local people. Soon high-caste families would send their children to university who in turn began the anti-Rana sentiment ending the oppressive regime in 1951. Despite the establishment of an education system in Nepal, poorer families could not afford to send their children to school and also wanted their children to work on the farms. Primary education was offered for free by the government as of 1975.
Nepal's education system has been largely based on that of the United States and has received much assistance in forming a curriculum from various NGO's. Primary education runs from grade 1 through 5. Secondary education consists of lower secondary (grade 6 to 8), upper secondary (grade 9 to 10) and higher secondary (grade 11 to 12). Students will receive a School Leaving Certificate after completing grade 10. The streams for higher secondary education are education, science, commerce and humanities after which they receive a Higher Secondary Certificate. Students have the option of attending Basic Technical Schools after grade 5 to be awarded a Training Level Certificate.
10.People of Nepal
Perched on the Southern slopes of the Himalayan Mountains, the Kingdom of Nepal is ethnically diverse. The Nepalese are descendants of three major migrations. These migrations have taken place from India, Tibet, and Central Asia. Among the earliest inhabitants were the Newar of the Kathmandu Valley and aboriginal Tharu in the southern Tarai region. The ancestors of the Brahman and Chetri caste groups came from India, while other ethnic groups trace their origins to Central Asia and Tibet, including the Gurung and Magar in the west, Rai and Limbu in the east, and Sherpa and Bhotia in the north.
In the Tarai, which is a part of the Ganges basin, much of the population is physically and culturally similar to the Indo-Aryan people of northern India. People of Indo-Aryan and Mongoloid stock live in the hill region. The mountainous highlands are sparsely populated. Kathmandu Valley, in the middle hill region, constitutes a small fraction of the nation's area but is the most densely populated, with almost 5% of the population.
Nepal's 2001 census enumerated 103 distinct caste/ethnic groups including an "unidentified group". The caste system of Nepal is rooted in the Hindu religion while the ethnic system is rooted in mutually exclusive origin myths, historical mutual seclusion and the occasional state intervention.
Adventure in Nepal
Adventure in Nepal
Excitement Beyond Limits...
Nepal is the most famous tourist destination for adventure sports and adventure tours in Asia. The topography of this Himalayan Kingdom makes it the first choice for adventure tours. Let us have a look at most thrilling, electrifying and mind blowing adventure places, sports and activities that Nepal offers.
Adventure Activities
Ultimate Adventure
• Mountaineering
• Trekking in Nepal
Flying Activities
• Paragliding
• Montain Flight
• Bungee Jumping
River Adventure
• River Rafting
• Kayaking
• Boating
Adventure Sources
Raging Rivers
River journeys in Nepal are electrifying and nerve thrilling. Your life flashes before you as you comfortably hurtle towards monster boulders and towering walls of water. Sunkoshi, Trisuli, Marshyangdi, Seti, Kali Gandaki and Karnali are the major rivers of Nepal, famous for Kayaking and White Water Rafting. The wild, steep, warm and bug free rivers of Nepal tickle the tourists' adventurous side and embrace them in their crystal clear blue-green waters.
Spectacular Mountains
Want to experience the intense pleasure of being alive, aware and adventurous....set yourself to a trekking and mountaineering expedition to the abode mountains, Nepal. God blessed Nepal with awe inspiring mountains and radiant snow peaks. Set against a brilliant blue sky, the view is jaw dropping. So what are you waiting for the world of adventure awaits you...
Himalayan Wildlife
Unleash yourself and play with elephants at Royal Chitwan national park or observe the endangered snow leopards at the Sagarmatha national Park. Neapl is blessed with unique wildlife raging from Palm Civet, Green Pit Viper, Pangolin to Red Panda, Marten, Himalayan Mousehare and Musk Deer.
Excitement Beyond Limits...
Nepal is the most famous tourist destination for adventure sports and adventure tours in Asia. The topography of this Himalayan Kingdom makes it the first choice for adventure tours. Let us have a look at most thrilling, electrifying and mind blowing adventure places, sports and activities that Nepal offers.
Adventure Activities
Ultimate Adventure
• Mountaineering
• Trekking in Nepal
Flying Activities
• Paragliding
• Montain Flight
• Bungee Jumping
River Adventure
• River Rafting
• Kayaking
• Boating
Adventure Sources
Raging Rivers
River journeys in Nepal are electrifying and nerve thrilling. Your life flashes before you as you comfortably hurtle towards monster boulders and towering walls of water. Sunkoshi, Trisuli, Marshyangdi, Seti, Kali Gandaki and Karnali are the major rivers of Nepal, famous for Kayaking and White Water Rafting. The wild, steep, warm and bug free rivers of Nepal tickle the tourists' adventurous side and embrace them in their crystal clear blue-green waters.
Spectacular Mountains
Want to experience the intense pleasure of being alive, aware and adventurous....set yourself to a trekking and mountaineering expedition to the abode mountains, Nepal. God blessed Nepal with awe inspiring mountains and radiant snow peaks. Set against a brilliant blue sky, the view is jaw dropping. So what are you waiting for the world of adventure awaits you...
Himalayan Wildlife
Unleash yourself and play with elephants at Royal Chitwan national park or observe the endangered snow leopards at the Sagarmatha national Park. Neapl is blessed with unique wildlife raging from Palm Civet, Green Pit Viper, Pangolin to Red Panda, Marten, Himalayan Mousehare and Musk Deer.
Mountains in Nepal
Mountains in Nepal
Let Us Touch the Sky...
Nepal is the home of mountains. The awe-inspiring, majestic mountains of Nepal attract the tourists from far and wide. Mount Everest, the world's highest peak, juts out in north eastern region of the country, on the Sino-Nepalese border. It seems competing with other mighty mountains. Adventure activities like mountaineering, trekking and hiking can be enjoyed in this mountain range. Journey on these mountains transends one to an entirely different world. Mountain biking is also a popular game in this region.
Snow Line
Snow line generally occurs between 5,000 and 5,500 meters. The region is characterised by cold climatic and rugged topographic conditions. Human habitation and economic activities are extremely limited.
Population
The region is sparsely populated, and whatever farming activity does exist is also confined to the low-lying valleys and the river basins. Upper Kali Gandaki Valley is an example of such valleys.
Mountaineering Regulations
According to the Nepal Mountaineering Association:-
• Any person or mountaineering team wanting to climb Nepal Mountains and Peaks must receive permission from Nepal Mountaineering Association.
• The team shall not indulge in activities that may be contrary to the customs and religious, political, social or cultural traditions of the locals.
• The team shall set up camps in its route to the base camp in such a way that they are acceptable to the local people or as prescribed by Government.
• The team shall not have any arms, ammunition and explosives etc. They are required to take government permission for the same.
• The team shall not get involved in any activity, which is or may be likely to affect negatively to the security and reputation of Nepal.
Let Us Touch the Sky...
Nepal is the home of mountains. The awe-inspiring, majestic mountains of Nepal attract the tourists from far and wide. Mount Everest, the world's highest peak, juts out in north eastern region of the country, on the Sino-Nepalese border. It seems competing with other mighty mountains. Adventure activities like mountaineering, trekking and hiking can be enjoyed in this mountain range. Journey on these mountains transends one to an entirely different world. Mountain biking is also a popular game in this region.
Snow Line
Snow line generally occurs between 5,000 and 5,500 meters. The region is characterised by cold climatic and rugged topographic conditions. Human habitation and economic activities are extremely limited.
Population
The region is sparsely populated, and whatever farming activity does exist is also confined to the low-lying valleys and the river basins. Upper Kali Gandaki Valley is an example of such valleys.
Mountaineering Regulations
According to the Nepal Mountaineering Association:-
• Any person or mountaineering team wanting to climb Nepal Mountains and Peaks must receive permission from Nepal Mountaineering Association.
• The team shall not indulge in activities that may be contrary to the customs and religious, political, social or cultural traditions of the locals.
• The team shall set up camps in its route to the base camp in such a way that they are acceptable to the local people or as prescribed by Government.
• The team shall not have any arms, ammunition and explosives etc. They are required to take government permission for the same.
• The team shall not get involved in any activity, which is or may be likely to affect negatively to the security and reputation of Nepal.
Festivals in Nepal
Festivals in Nepal
Celebrating Life...
Festivity is synonym to the Nepalese Culture. For the Nepalese, festivals are not merely the annual spectacles, but also are a living part of their rich cultural heritage. Festivals effectively bind together the Nepalese people of diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs into one nation. Most Nepalese festivals are related to different Hindu and Buddhist deities. They are celebrated on days consecrated for them by religion and tradition.
Month Festival
Jan-Feb •Sweta Manchhendra Snan
• Swasthani Puja
• Maghe Sankranti
• Basanta Panchmi & Saraswati Puja
Feb-March • Maha Shivaratri
• Losar
• Fagu Purnima or Holi
March-April • Chaitra Dasain
• Ghode Jatra
April-May • Biska Jatra
• New Year's Day
• Red Machhendranath Jatra
• Buddha Jayanti July-August • Gunla
• Krishna Astami
• Janai Purnima
August-Sept • Gai Jatra
• Teej
Sept-Oct • Indra Jatra
• Dasain or Durga Puja
Oct-Nov • Mani Rimdu
• Tihar or Deepali Nov-Dec • Balachaturdarsi
• Bibah Panchani
• Yomari Punhi
Celebrating Life...
Festivity is synonym to the Nepalese Culture. For the Nepalese, festivals are not merely the annual spectacles, but also are a living part of their rich cultural heritage. Festivals effectively bind together the Nepalese people of diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs into one nation. Most Nepalese festivals are related to different Hindu and Buddhist deities. They are celebrated on days consecrated for them by religion and tradition.
Month Festival
Jan-Feb •Sweta Manchhendra Snan
• Swasthani Puja
• Maghe Sankranti
• Basanta Panchmi & Saraswati Puja
Feb-March • Maha Shivaratri
• Losar
• Fagu Purnima or Holi
March-April • Chaitra Dasain
• Ghode Jatra
April-May • Biska Jatra
• New Year's Day
• Red Machhendranath Jatra
• Buddha Jayanti July-August • Gunla
• Krishna Astami
• Janai Purnima
August-Sept • Gai Jatra
• Teej
Sept-Oct • Indra Jatra
• Dasain or Durga Puja
Oct-Nov • Mani Rimdu
• Tihar or Deepali Nov-Dec • Balachaturdarsi
• Bibah Panchani
• Yomari Punhi
Nepali Food
Nepali Food
The food of Nepal is as diverse as the country itself. The Nepalese recipes are quick to cook and good to eat. Nepalese food is famous for its nutrition level and tempting taste. Whilst Nepalese cuisine is somewhat basic, it certainly does not lack in flavor, making extensive use of spices and flavorings such as ginger, garlic, coriander, pepper, cumin, chilies, cilantro, mustard oil, ghee and occasionally yak butter. Come let us savour some of the famous dishes of Nepal.
Eating Habits
Main Meal
In most part of country, especially rice-growing areas, Dal Bhat (pulses and rice) is the staple food of Nepalese, that is eaten twice a day.
Snacking
Snacks such as bread, chura (beaten rice), roti (flat bread), curried vegetables, milked tea and other snacks are also generally eaten in between the two big meals.
Famous Nepalese Cuisine
Gundrook- Dheedo
Equally popular among Nepali people and foreign tourists, Gundrook-Dheedo is a sugar-free dish made of wheat, maize and dried green vegetable. The food is high on nutrition level and satisfies the taste buds as well.
Alu Tama
Aloo Tama (Alu Tama) simply means 'Potato Bamboo Shoots'. It is a unique and classic Nepali curry flavor dish.
Vegetable Pulao (Fried Nepali Rice)
Vegetable Pulao is one of the popular ways rice is served during the parties and events in the Nepalese household. It has flavor of turmeric and cumin to it.
Masu
Masu is spiced or curried meat (usually chicken, mutton, buffalo or pork) with gravy. Served with rice, it is a main course dish, very popular in Nepal.
Chatamari
Regarded as Newari pizza, Chatamari is a flat bread made from rice flour with or without toppings (meat, vegetables, eggs, sugar). It is highly savoured by the tourists who consider it as a good and healthy substitute to pizza.
The food of Nepal is as diverse as the country itself. The Nepalese recipes are quick to cook and good to eat. Nepalese food is famous for its nutrition level and tempting taste. Whilst Nepalese cuisine is somewhat basic, it certainly does not lack in flavor, making extensive use of spices and flavorings such as ginger, garlic, coriander, pepper, cumin, chilies, cilantro, mustard oil, ghee and occasionally yak butter. Come let us savour some of the famous dishes of Nepal.
Eating Habits
Main Meal
In most part of country, especially rice-growing areas, Dal Bhat (pulses and rice) is the staple food of Nepalese, that is eaten twice a day.
Snacking
Snacks such as bread, chura (beaten rice), roti (flat bread), curried vegetables, milked tea and other snacks are also generally eaten in between the two big meals.
Famous Nepalese Cuisine
Gundrook- Dheedo
Equally popular among Nepali people and foreign tourists, Gundrook-Dheedo is a sugar-free dish made of wheat, maize and dried green vegetable. The food is high on nutrition level and satisfies the taste buds as well.
Alu Tama
Aloo Tama (Alu Tama) simply means 'Potato Bamboo Shoots'. It is a unique and classic Nepali curry flavor dish.
Vegetable Pulao (Fried Nepali Rice)
Vegetable Pulao is one of the popular ways rice is served during the parties and events in the Nepalese household. It has flavor of turmeric and cumin to it.
Masu
Masu is spiced or curried meat (usually chicken, mutton, buffalo or pork) with gravy. Served with rice, it is a main course dish, very popular in Nepal.
Chatamari
Regarded as Newari pizza, Chatamari is a flat bread made from rice flour with or without toppings (meat, vegetables, eggs, sugar). It is highly savoured by the tourists who consider it as a good and healthy substitute to pizza.
Cities of Nepal
Cities of Nepal
Spiritual, divine, adventurous and entertaining... the cities of Nepal are a unique blend of tradition and novelty. Then be it the clinging bells of temples at Bhaktpur, the beautiful lakes of Pokhara or the casinos at Kathmandu... a tour to the cities of Nepal introduces you every facet of life. Pack your bags and get ready to for the journey of lifetime. Come lets discover the diversity of Nepal cities...
Major Cities of Nepal
Bhaktapur
As the name means in Hindi, Bhaktpur is the "City of Devotees". This divine, ancient town is famous for its multi-storeyed pagodas. Bhaktpur has a calm, soothing and spiritual atmosphere and is one of the most peaceful cities of Nepal.
Birgunj
Birgunj, the commercial capital of Nepal is the second largest city in the country, located in the lower Terai plains, near the Indian border.
Kathmandu
The capital of Nepal, Kathmandu valley, is the biggest and the most cosmopolitan city of Nepal. Known as the 'City of Temples', it has great temples with historic, architectural and religious importance attached to them. Famous for its rocking casinos, Kathmandu is the meeting point of various ethnic groups.
Lumbini
Listed as a world heritage site by UNESCO, Lumbini is the birth place of Lord Buddha. The historical city of Lumbini is blessed with rich natural setting and astonishing architectural beauty. Located in South-Western Terai of Nepal, the historic city takes one back to 623 B.C.
Nepalgunj
Located in the lower Terai region and known as the transport hub for western Nepal, the town is the starting point of the adventurous treks to Dopla and Jumla regions.
Patan
The city of fine arts, Patan is the shopping hub of traditional handicrafts and carpets. The city is blessed with beautiful temples and stupas. The Phulchokri mountain near Patan is an excellent spot for hiking.
Pokhara
This mystical city is rightly called the "Center of Adventure". With sky touching mountains and dazzling waterfalls, the city is indeed a visitors' paradise. In close proximity to nature, this beautiful city of Nepal offers the most esthetic panoramic view of the Himalayas.
Spiritual, divine, adventurous and entertaining... the cities of Nepal are a unique blend of tradition and novelty. Then be it the clinging bells of temples at Bhaktpur, the beautiful lakes of Pokhara or the casinos at Kathmandu... a tour to the cities of Nepal introduces you every facet of life. Pack your bags and get ready to for the journey of lifetime. Come lets discover the diversity of Nepal cities...
Major Cities of Nepal
Bhaktapur
As the name means in Hindi, Bhaktpur is the "City of Devotees". This divine, ancient town is famous for its multi-storeyed pagodas. Bhaktpur has a calm, soothing and spiritual atmosphere and is one of the most peaceful cities of Nepal.
Birgunj
Birgunj, the commercial capital of Nepal is the second largest city in the country, located in the lower Terai plains, near the Indian border.
Kathmandu
The capital of Nepal, Kathmandu valley, is the biggest and the most cosmopolitan city of Nepal. Known as the 'City of Temples', it has great temples with historic, architectural and religious importance attached to them. Famous for its rocking casinos, Kathmandu is the meeting point of various ethnic groups.
Lumbini
Listed as a world heritage site by UNESCO, Lumbini is the birth place of Lord Buddha. The historical city of Lumbini is blessed with rich natural setting and astonishing architectural beauty. Located in South-Western Terai of Nepal, the historic city takes one back to 623 B.C.
Nepalgunj
Located in the lower Terai region and known as the transport hub for western Nepal, the town is the starting point of the adventurous treks to Dopla and Jumla regions.
Patan
The city of fine arts, Patan is the shopping hub of traditional handicrafts and carpets. The city is blessed with beautiful temples and stupas. The Phulchokri mountain near Patan is an excellent spot for hiking.
Pokhara
This mystical city is rightly called the "Center of Adventure". With sky touching mountains and dazzling waterfalls, the city is indeed a visitors' paradise. In close proximity to nature, this beautiful city of Nepal offers the most esthetic panoramic view of the Himalayas.
Nepali Language
Nepali Language
Nepali language, originally, belongs to the Indo-Aryan branch of the Indo-European language family. It is one of 22 official languages of India, incorporated in the 8th schedule of the Constitution of India. The official language of Nepal, it is spoken in some north eastern parts of India. In India, the influence of Nepali language can be seen in the state of Sikkim as well as the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, where it has been declared the official language. It is also widely spoken in the state of Uttaranchal and Assam. Also known as Nepalese, Gorkhali and Gurkhali (which means the 'language of Nepali Gorkhas'), the language has a rich cultural history. The oldest term used to describe Nepali is "Khaskura", which came from the rice growing Indo-Aryan settlers, known as Khas.
History
It is said that some 500 years back, the Khas settlers migrated towards the east, in the lower valleys of the Gandaki basin, mainly because the place was well suited for rice cultivation. One of their extended families settled in Gorkha, a small place between Pokhara and Kathmandu. Around the year 1700, an army of Gurungs, Magars and other hill tribesmen came together under Prithvi Narayan Shah. They set out to conquer dozens of small principalities in the foothills of the Himalayas. The Gorkha replaced the former homeland of the Khas as the military and political headquarters. Khaskura was renamed as Gorkhali, i.e. language of the Gorkhas. After Nepal became the new center of political initiative, Gorkhali, language of Gorkha, came to be known as Nepali.
Nepali language, originally, belongs to the Indo-Aryan branch of the Indo-European language family. It is one of 22 official languages of India, incorporated in the 8th schedule of the Constitution of India. The official language of Nepal, it is spoken in some north eastern parts of India. In India, the influence of Nepali language can be seen in the state of Sikkim as well as the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, where it has been declared the official language. It is also widely spoken in the state of Uttaranchal and Assam. Also known as Nepalese, Gorkhali and Gurkhali (which means the 'language of Nepali Gorkhas'), the language has a rich cultural history. The oldest term used to describe Nepali is "Khaskura", which came from the rice growing Indo-Aryan settlers, known as Khas.
History
It is said that some 500 years back, the Khas settlers migrated towards the east, in the lower valleys of the Gandaki basin, mainly because the place was well suited for rice cultivation. One of their extended families settled in Gorkha, a small place between Pokhara and Kathmandu. Around the year 1700, an army of Gurungs, Magars and other hill tribesmen came together under Prithvi Narayan Shah. They set out to conquer dozens of small principalities in the foothills of the Himalayas. The Gorkha replaced the former homeland of the Khas as the military and political headquarters. Khaskura was renamed as Gorkhali, i.e. language of the Gorkhas. After Nepal became the new center of political initiative, Gorkhali, language of Gorkha, came to be known as Nepali.
Nepali Culture
Nepali Culture
Nepal is blessed with a rich cultural heritage. Culture has been called 'the way of life for an entire society'. The statement holds particularly true in case of Nepal where every aspect of life, food, clothing and even occupations are culturally classified. In a society so feudalistic and so fractured across class lines, cultural heritage comes as a fresh wind. Culture in Nepal is an assemblage of music, architecture, religion and literature.
The culture of Nepal is a unique combination of tradition and novelty. The traditions are followed as they were and new customs are created to keep pace with the changing times. It is surprising to note that a country as poor, illiterate and backward as Nepal displays such flexibility when it come to incorporating traits from other cultures. The mountain kingdom of Nepal is multi-ethic and multi-lingual. The land is rich with unique cultural groups like Tharu,Yadav, Ahir, Newars and others.
Nepalese are among the most hospitable hosts. This is the reason for which tourists from far and wide enjoy coming to Nepal time and again. Nepalese are culturally warm, hospitable and affectionate hosts who place their heart above their head. Religion is the lifeblood of the Nepalese. Officially it is a Hindu country, but in practice the religion is a syncretism of Hindu and Buddhist beliefs with a pantheon of Tantrik deities tagged on.
Nepal's food is surprisingly dull given that it lies at the intersection of the two great gastronomic giants India and China. Most of the time meals consist of a dish called dhal-bhat-tarkari that is a combination of lentil soup, rice and curried vegetables. It can hardly be considered, a dynamic national cuisine.
Nepal is blessed with a rich cultural heritage. Culture has been called 'the way of life for an entire society'. The statement holds particularly true in case of Nepal where every aspect of life, food, clothing and even occupations are culturally classified. In a society so feudalistic and so fractured across class lines, cultural heritage comes as a fresh wind. Culture in Nepal is an assemblage of music, architecture, religion and literature.
The culture of Nepal is a unique combination of tradition and novelty. The traditions are followed as they were and new customs are created to keep pace with the changing times. It is surprising to note that a country as poor, illiterate and backward as Nepal displays such flexibility when it come to incorporating traits from other cultures. The mountain kingdom of Nepal is multi-ethic and multi-lingual. The land is rich with unique cultural groups like Tharu,Yadav, Ahir, Newars and others.
Nepalese are among the most hospitable hosts. This is the reason for which tourists from far and wide enjoy coming to Nepal time and again. Nepalese are culturally warm, hospitable and affectionate hosts who place their heart above their head. Religion is the lifeblood of the Nepalese. Officially it is a Hindu country, but in practice the religion is a syncretism of Hindu and Buddhist beliefs with a pantheon of Tantrik deities tagged on.
Nepal's food is surprisingly dull given that it lies at the intersection of the two great gastronomic giants India and China. Most of the time meals consist of a dish called dhal-bhat-tarkari that is a combination of lentil soup, rice and curried vegetables. It can hardly be considered, a dynamic national cuisine.
Sites in Nepal
Sites in Nepal
There are plenty of great sights in Nepal just waiting to be discovered. As you walk the streets of Kathmandu, you will discover artistic and cultural treasures just waiting to be snatched up in a photo or two. To be honest, no photo can adequately justify the extreme beauty of this beautiful country – you simply have to see Nepal's sights for yourself to understand why Nepal is garnishing so much attention these days.
A plethora of delicate carvings, intricate metal work and brazenly bold art, meshed together by the quiet respectfulness of the people who live here, it's a world away from the hustle and bustle of big city life.
When it comes to sightseeing, Kathmandu Valley is at the heart of it all. Not only can you view the beautiful blue peaks of the Himalayas from here, but you can enjoy visiting a few of the 7 World Heritage Sites. All seven are man-made wonders which have withstood the ravages of time and provide silent testimony to the skill and intelligence of early man. Some of them are roughly 2500 years old! If you're visiting Nepal, plan to spend a little time at each of these seven wonders. They are: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, the Boudha Nath Stupa, the Pashupati Nath Temple and the Changu Narayan Temple.
Besides the UNESCO World Heritages Sights of Nepal, you might also try visiting the many museums, art galleries and markets. There are a great many temples and shrines worth seeing too. Everywhere you go you will find color, beauty and intelligence – a true mark of the people as well as their artwork. don't miss out on Nepal's colorful sights!
There are plenty of great sights in Nepal just waiting to be discovered. As you walk the streets of Kathmandu, you will discover artistic and cultural treasures just waiting to be snatched up in a photo or two. To be honest, no photo can adequately justify the extreme beauty of this beautiful country – you simply have to see Nepal's sights for yourself to understand why Nepal is garnishing so much attention these days.
A plethora of delicate carvings, intricate metal work and brazenly bold art, meshed together by the quiet respectfulness of the people who live here, it's a world away from the hustle and bustle of big city life.
When it comes to sightseeing, Kathmandu Valley is at the heart of it all. Not only can you view the beautiful blue peaks of the Himalayas from here, but you can enjoy visiting a few of the 7 World Heritage Sites. All seven are man-made wonders which have withstood the ravages of time and provide silent testimony to the skill and intelligence of early man. Some of them are roughly 2500 years old! If you're visiting Nepal, plan to spend a little time at each of these seven wonders. They are: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, the Boudha Nath Stupa, the Pashupati Nath Temple and the Changu Narayan Temple.
Besides the UNESCO World Heritages Sights of Nepal, you might also try visiting the many museums, art galleries and markets. There are a great many temples and shrines worth seeing too. Everywhere you go you will find color, beauty and intelligence – a true mark of the people as well as their artwork. don't miss out on Nepal's colorful sights!
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