Nepal- The Call of the Mystical Himalayas
If Tibet is the roof of the world, then Nepal is surely the open balcony to the stunning Himalayas! The awesome combination of blockbuster Himalayan views, golden-roofed temples, ancient monasteries, rustic countryside and rich wildlife props Nepal high up on the global tourist map. Join us as we explore the various aspects of this multifaceted Himalayan country!
Historical Legacy of Nepal
Starting with Gopalas of ancient Nepal to Kiratis, followed by Licchavis rulers and Malla Kings and finally the Gorkhas under the moniker of Shah Dynasty who ruled Nepal from 1769 to 2008; Nepal has had a rich history of conquerors and creators. In 2008, the Maoist rebels overthrew monarchy and set up democracy in Nepal.
Cultural Legacy of Nepal
The birthplace of Gautam Buddha and ruled by Hindu rulers for centuries, Nepal has a rich legacy of Buddhism & Hinduism. Its beautiful Hindu temples and ancient Stupas & monasteries have been preserved as World Heritage Sites. Now with Hinduism as its major religion, the assorted Buddhist & tribal cultures of Nepal are manifest in its festivals, art forms and cuisine.
Tourist Attractions
Nepal’s gorgeous capital, Kathmandu, is a perfect blend of ancient architecture and contemporary buildings. A pretty cosmopolitan city, Kathmandu defines the rich cultural heritage of Nepal.
Heritage Sites
Nepal is home to 7 cultural & architecturally rich heritage sites in Kathmandu Valley and 1 in Lumbini that have been preserved as UNESCO World Heritage Sites:
- Pashupatinath Temple- Shiva temple
- Syayambhunath Stupa
- Baudhanath Stupa
- Kathmandu Durbar Square- Royal Courtyard
- Patan Durbar Square- Royal Courtyard
- Bhaktapur Durbar Square
- Changu Narayan Temple
- Lumbini- Birthplace of Gautam Buddha
Nature and Wildlife in Nepal
Nepal is blessed with abundant natural beauty. Its diverse landscape ranging from snowcapped Himalayas to lush grasslands and Rara Lake eco-region is home to a variety of flora & fauna. Besides a number of national parks & conservation areas in Nepal, these two parks have been declared UNESCO Natural World Heritage Sites:
- Sagarmatha National Park- Home to the highest peak in the world, Mount Everest (8848m)
- Chitwan National Park- A perfect place for big game Jungle Safari.
Pilgrimages in Nepal
Colossal stupas lined with fluttering prayer flags and majestic Hindu temples comprise of major pilgrimages in Nepal. Some of the famous temples and stupas of Nepal as are follows:
- Boudhanath Stupa
- Gosainkunda- Holy lake dedicate to Lord Shiva
- Lumbini- Birthplace of Gautam Buddha
- Mankamana Temple
- Muktinath Temple- Dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Avalokiteshwar Bodhisattva
- Swayambhunath Stupa
- Pashupatinath Temple- Shiva Temple
- Tengboche Monastery
- Budhanilkantha Temple-Dedicated to Lord Vishnu
Adventure in Nepal
Nepal, with its stunning mountains, rushing rivers, yawning gorges and spectacular grasslands, is certainly the Disneyland for adventurers. Let’s look at some of the adrenalin pumping stuff you can try in Nepal:
- Mountaineering- Conquer Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world.
- Trekking- Mount Everest base camp and Annapurna Circuit are the two most travelled trekking routes.
- Whitewater rafting- Battle the roaring waters of Sun Kosi and other fast-flowing mountain rivers.
- Bungee Jumping- High altitude bungee jumping in deep canyons of Nepal.
- Paragliding- Soar over the beautiful mountains and Lake in Pokhara region of Nepal.
- Skydiving- Feel the rush as you dive through the clouds just before the mighty Mount Everest.
- Mountain Biking- Ride up the rocky terrain through ancient trails and rustic villages in the Mustang region of Nepal.
- Canyoning- Go canyoning through the tumbling waterfalls and waterholes of Jalibire Canyon for once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- Spelunking or Cave Exploration- Explore the mystical caves of Bandipur (Siddha Gufa) and discover the marvels of nature.
Fairs & festivals in Nepal
Colossal stupas lined with fluttering prayer flags and majestic Hindu temples comprise of major pilgrimages in Nepal. Some of the famous temples and stupas of Nepal as are follows:
- Buddha Jayanti- Gautam Buddha’s Birthday
- Losar- New Year
- Gaijatra- Cow Procession Festival
- Tiji Festival- Tibetan rituals in Upper Mustang
- Maha Shivratri- Shiva Festival
- Ghode Jatra- Annual Horse Parade
- Dashain- Dedicated to Goddess Durga
- Tihar- 5 day Festival of Lights celebrated annually
Listen to the call of the Himalayas and delve into this wonderful adventure called Nepal! Just one trip to this magical land leaves you yearning for more. Nepal once is never enough!!
Nepal Tour Packages
Routing: Nepal - Kathmandu - Patan...