BOUDHANATH STUPA-STANDING HIGH AGAIN

“Even natural disasters can’t keep Nepal down for long. The 2015 earthquake caused devastation”- Lonely Planet.

Claiming thousands of lives; huge number of heritage were destroyed and even collapsed during earthquake 2015. The restoration and renovation of heritage is must, disasters comes and goes. Now, it’s a time to bounce back. The good example of this is the standing of Boudhanath Stupa.

Boudhanath Stupa is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kathmandu valley lies in the northeast direction. It is one of the largest stupa of the world and a holiest site for the Buddhist. Huge number of devotees circumambulate the stupa during the morning and evening time.

The earthquake of April 2015 has badly damaged the Boudhanath Stupa. Within a year after devastation, under supervision of Department of Archaeology, the Boudhanath Area Development Committee started to renovate the Stupa. With the good support of public, monks and volunteers, it has been completed now.

Decoration of Sutpa with five color effect (red, blue, green, yellow and white) symbolizing five element god- “Panchadhyani Buddha”.

The enthusiastic celebration of rebuilding Boudha Stupa going to held on 22^nd November with an inauguration ceremony. The different sect of Buddhism are offering a purification worship at the World Heritage- Boudha Sutpa.

Next Tourist Destination in the country Nepal- Rara Lake Trek

 No matter, it is rightly says Nepal as the mystical land frame by the great Himalayas. Here is still many unseen landscapes and a hidden pockets of wilderness which bless the country with immense natural beauty.  

Rara National Park, lies at the heart of Mugu district, is one of the hidden treasure of Western Nepal. Taking a scenic flight from Nepalgunj to Talcha Airport, the trail begins toward the largest lake of the country, the Rara Lake. The Rara Lake trek surrounded with beautiful forests of pine, spruce, juniper and host verity of unique flora and fauna. The National Park is a home of musk deer, leopards, ghorals, tahr, Himalayan black beer, the rare red panda and nearly 214 species of birds. It is an ideal trek to the Trans- Himalayan valley with high ridges covered with forest and alpine pasture. 

This place is completely untouched by the human influences and one of deprived place in terms of modern facilities. The prime highlight of this trek is itself the Rara Lake, huge species of flora and fauna and the glimpse of the “Khas culture” of Sinja valley. Sinja lies on the way to the lake is culturally important landmark that hold the history of 13/14 century. It is a perfect place to observe the rustic lifestyle and culture of “Great Karnali”. This area is an important place from where the Nepalese Language “The Khasa Bhasa” was originated. The main occupation of the people living around the area is agriculture. People also rear goats and extract medicinal herbs and sell them for their living. “Thakuri” is the dominant society. 

 Also, Thakuri Baba’s Temple is situated here in the southeast corner of the lake. Local people believe that the god Thakuri shot an arrow to open the passage of the lake reducing the damage caused by flooding. The best time to visit is September/October and April/May. At this time, the incredible beauty of nature can be capture over the clear sky in a mild weather with a soft touch of wind.

In brief, Rara Lake is the tranquil destination to the adventure lover through the off beaten trail of Western Nepal.

“Best Value Destination of the world”

Nepal is only destination in South Asia that has been featured in Lonely Planet’s Top Ten Destinations Guidebook.

Lonely Planet says, "Even natural disasters can’t keep Nepal down for long. The 2015 earthquakes caused devastation, but what is most striking from a traveler’s perspective is not how much was lost but how much remains.”

 “Nepal has all the skills required to repair monuments and infrastructure, but what it does need is income. By visiting Nepal now and supporting local culture and people, you could help a nation rebuild and bounce back even stronger."

2015 devastating earthquake has smashed some of the heritages and trekking route too. Now, reconstruction and renovation of most of the heritages has been completed and local are enthusiastically welcoming the guest. As, Nepal believes in “Guest as God”- “Atithi Devo Vawa”.

Meantime, here are so many trails open for adventurous lovers and your support for rebuild Nepal is really precious. Make your trip worthwhile visiting the heavenly Nepal.  

A trip to the remote far western region of Nepal

The far western region of Nepal is renowned for remoteness and isolation which hosts some of the most beautiful natural habitats and landscapes, far away from the human interference and man-made structures.

The first one is suklaphanta wildlife reserve is a protected area which resides some of the endangered species of the world. The beautiful grasslands found in this region is the grazing area for deer, Great one horned rhinoceros, elephant and many more. The high grass land also hosts many of the predators in the ecosystem some of which are leopard, Bengal tiger, monitor lizard etc. similarly, there are many birds found in this region, for the birdwatchers who really get excited in viewing exotic birds and some of which are: wood pecker, babblers like yellow eyed babbler, chestnut- capped babbler and jerdon’s babbler, grey headed fish eagle, darter, oriental pied hornbill and many more. One of the greatest creation of the nature, suklaphanta wildlife reserve is a place which must be visited.

An elevated plateau, khaptad is mostly grasslands between the alpine landscapes which consists of numerous landscapes which are not only eye catching but also hosts precious wildlife. Cherry on the top would be the flowers that blossom during the spring and autumn which covers the grassland and is breathtakingly beautiful. Due to the remoteness and the isolation which the region hosts, the natural habitat to the wildlife and the flora are well preserved and are left unaltered.

Bhimdutta is a city with an unconventional features which diverges from temple to casino. For Hindu followers and any travel enthusiast, bhimdutta is a religional and educational hub as the region hosts destination like Vishnu Temple (Kamal Mandir), Tikapur Park, Rautela(Baijnath Temple), Siddhanath Mandir(Temple), Chunepaani Taal(Lake), Jhulunge Pool (Bridge), Betkot Taal(lake) etc.

The far western region is the least visited region in Nepal, primarily due to the fact that the destination is hard to reach and the infrastructure for tourism is limited. This does not mean that the region is not to be visited as the region being less interfered by manmade structures defines the preservation of the landscapes and the natural habitat of the fauna. Many of the travel agencies have set the far western region as the center of attraction and offer packages which are attractive and reliable. Besides the beautiful landscapes and the extra ordinary wildlife, the opportunity to learn various cultures in such region is prominent which would be something new for the visitors.

Cycling: the alternate sightseeing adventure

One of the rapidly popularizing adventure sport in Nepal is, undoubtedly the cycling or mountain biking. Varying from extreme off-road mountain biking adventure to the cycling through paved paths along the landscapes, the sport gives you an immersive experience of the nature. With having established numerous rent house for cycles which could be extreme off-road mountain bikes or cycles just for wandering about the place, cycling has been the talk of the town all over Nepal.

Within the capital there are many cycling destinations which offer eye catching views along with easy to moderate level of difficulty. The slopes in the Kathmandu valley are considered easy as they are not that steep and the trails are well paved. However, for those who prefer high level of comfort and wish to pursue cycling just for the sake of sight-seeing, there are asphalt roads with low traffic and lustrous view. Some of the famous cycling tracks are Shivapuri National park which is the northern rim of the Kathmandu valley hosting dense forest and breezy climate. The trek is easy and can be pursued by all as there are no monster ascents and descents. The trail is well paved offering lowest bumps and discomforts.

Godavari roads are asphalt roads with slight ascents and descents along the way, which leads to the Godavari botanical garden. Having set the destination up to Godavari botanical garden is easy but there are longer and more difficult routes past the garden. The trail to Lele valley is however, little more challenging and lengthy. The trail ascends to more than 2000m at Tinpani Bhanjyang and later descends through Battedanda to Hetauda which fall in the Terai region.

Another popular cycling trials is the Lakuri Bhanjyang which is an intermediate level ride offering some of the best views of the Kathmandu valley and mountains on the northern region of the valley. This 30 km track leads through various terrains and paths. Along the track, the encounter of many religious destinations like Namobuddha can be found which would be ideal spot to visit during the event.

Nagarkot is the destination for many tourists to view the valley and mountains around the northern edge. However, cycling to Nagarkot is an experience in itself as there are about 4 ways to pursue the Ngarkot trail. The trail is molded by monster ascends and descends which would mean the rider must have strong leg muscles. Similarly, the trail of Kakani is similar to Nagarkot although the slopes are not that steep and can be pursued with less exertion.

Is Nepal an ideal destination to the thrill seekers?

The world has known Nepal as the country of Himalayas which reflects the peace and serenity of the nature but beside these are there any adventure sport best suited for the adrenaline junkies?                                                    picture  source:bbc.com

Matter of facts there are numerous adventurous sports which are featured in various parts of Nepal and other activities which will certainly provide with the  desired  amusement and thrill.

Bungee jumping is the first adventure sport that pops up in mind as it the one of the world’s highest bungee standing at 160m high. Despite seeming dangerous, the sport is very much safe with technicians in the field ensuring the level of optimum safety standards having met.

Nepal is a country of rivers with about more than 600 rivers flowing along all parts of the country. This has brought a huge boost in the adventure seekers for rafting and kayaking. White water rafting has been popular and growingly in demand as rafting truly pumps up the adrenaline in many. The rush which you get when the raft is manhandled by the tides all over the river could prove more than satisfying to many. While rafting is a group sport, kayaking takes thing next level with the isolation in the tides which requires much effort and precision to steer the kayak. The rush however, is inspiring and is greatly considered as one of the most effective way of relieving stress and loosening up.

Jungle safari might not be a sport but is a dangerous adventure which allows the up and front encounter with the wildlife. Many of us in the busy schedule and hectic lifestyle have already forgotten the beauty of nature and wildlife as a life form is truly an art of the nature. Nepal resides some of the most endangered and rare species in the world which can be encountered in rainforests of many regions. Animals like crocodile, gharial, one horned rhino, Bengal tiger, red panda, Asian rocky python, snow leopard etc. animals preserved in Nepal. Safari allows the visitors to have a one on one with the wild life and upon encounter, the feeling of mutual existence and appreciation to the wild life is a given.

Beside these, trail bike riding has been growing immensely popular among the visitor as the terrains in the Nepal are unaltered which offers as the existence of ideal trail for bike riding. Similarly, mountain climbing is one of the core tourism attraction but requires great commitment along with training and experience in the field.

What is it like to homestay in Nepal?

Nepal might be the country of Himalayas to many but what goes unnoticed and un-emphasized is the cultural aspect of Nepal. Culturally diverse Nepal hosts a number of lifestyles which follow different tradition and norm. Home stay allows the visitors to have a warm welcome as well as an opportunity to realize and understand the culture and tradition of Nepalese lifestyles on a daily basis. Nepalese people are humble and friendly which truly provides the visitors with a family like experience.

Tanking about the perks of homestay, the first things that pops into the minds is the food. Many visitors in Nepal have had pleasant experiences but many have yet to taste the famous Nepalese cuisine. Nepalese cuisines are different with various cultures but are highly nutritious and delicious. Home staying gives the visitors the opportunity to experience home cooked, organic and household dishes which truly reflects the prime aspect of Nepalese lifestyles. Some of the famous cuisines are rice, pulse, grains, vegetables, pickles, chicken and goat meat, porridge, stew and many more. However, many home stays will serve western dishes with respect to the preference of the visitors.

One of the educational aspect in home stay is the opportunity which the visitors get to know and understand the various tradition and occasions in Nepal. the festivals and occasions which are so dearly celebrated by the nepalese have a historical and religious significance which can be clearly enquired and details be narrated by the most relevant source. Nepalese celebrate numerous festivals and have various ceremonies which are celebrated differently in every culture. There are more festivals celebrated in Nepal than there are number of days in a year. So, there is a high chance that the visitors will be able to witness a couple of festivals and events in their time of visit.

Home stay are cheaper than hotels and Inns however they serve a very rich purpose which the commercial accommodations are unable to provide the visitors and that is a home like experience. Having a comfortable bed, nice service and space of your own does not make the experience home like but the presence of others who treat you like a part of their own family do. The interaction with the people alone will be a true experience in knowing and understanding the Nepalese history, tradition and lifestyle. So, make the next visit you plan include at least a week of home stay to ensure the best home like experience during the visit.

A visit to Kathmandu, the city of Temples

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal is surrounded by pre historic palaces and ancient temples. It is believed that some of the temples in Kathmandu date back to the times before birth of Christ. The architecture and the design of the temples and palaces which were built in the ancient era are quite unique and possess a prime significance in the lives of the Nepalese people.

Nepal hosts people from different religion and cultures who come from different backgrounds and have different traditions. This has resulted the city of temples to be a shrine for all Nepalese people belonging to different religion and backgrounds.

Out of the many temples there are some of which have prime significance not only in the country itself but also nationwide. All the Hindu religion followers are well aware of the Pashupatinath Temple which is the shrine to all Hindu as well as Buddhist followers. People following Hinduism from all around the world visit Nepal to worship the idols and the temples in the Pashupatinath.

Swayambhunath temple or the temple of Monkeys is considered as the oldest temples in all of Nepal and also one of the oldest temples in the world itself as the origin of this temples dates back to the time before the birth of Christ. Swayambhunath is truly is beautiful structure which is situated at the top of a hill within the Kathmandu valley which requires a steep climb of stairs of about 350. The temple is a structure called ‘stupa’ which has a semi spherical shape as the base and a cone structure above it with the eyes of Buddha drawn over the four sides. A glimpse of the valley from the hill can be witnessed which is truly amazing but the temple itself is decorated with holy flags and idols surrounding the stupa.

Similar to the swayambhunath temple is the bouddhanath temple which is nepal’s largest stupa. However, the ambience around the place is quite different from the swayambhunath as the place is surrounded by restaurants, handicrafts store and souvenir shops which are Tibetan influenced. On occasion such as Buddha jayanti and Lhosar, both prime occasions in the Buddhist religion the place is crowded with people worshipping around the structure carrying fire lit lights and singing peaceful and melodious hymns.

Similarly, Bhaktapur durbar square and Patan durbar square are the two palaces built in the ancient time which holds a historical significance as well as gives knowledge about the cultural practices and the tradition in Nepal. The architecture involved is unique to others but very beautiful with idols and patterns inscribed on the wood works and stones which are symbol of the ancient Kathmandu. These structure are surrounded by temples and supporting structures like bells, statues and pillars which stands in a complete harmony.

What are some of the adventures and events, which should not be missed out in your visit Nepal?

The list of number of activities and places to visit in Nepal would be too many to talk about under one heading. However, there are some of the most exciting and significant events and activities which are some of the most anticipated and kept under the highest priorities by many.

Lumbini, the birth place of Lord Buddha who founded Buddhism is a monument well preserved and well established for the visiting 

of tourists from all around the world. Many countries inclined towards Buddhism have had their participation in the construction of temples and monuments with unique architecture and design language. The peacefulness and the tranquility around the area truly reflects the divine power in the words of wisdom provided by Lord Buddha.

Kathmandu, the city of temples is a blend of modernization with patches of old and historic monuments and temples being encountered among the concrete ambiguity. The capital of Nepal, has a historical and cultural significance due to the presence of palaces and temples all around the place. The architecture and the art pieces that are on display over the monuments brings backs the pre-historic era back to life. Also, people who are nocturnal would love the night life in thamel as the streets in thamel are filled with lights, colors and music of all sorts.

Everest base camp is the base to the roof of the world which many trekkers and climbers have jotted down onto their bucket list. Whether taking a helicopter flight over the mountain ranges to the base camp or trekking through diverse terrains just to reach the snowy tops, trip to Everest base camp is an accomplishment in itself. The view from the base camp is truly magnificent as the world’s highest peak can be viewed among many other peaks residing beside it with edged rocky surfaces getting disrupted by thin fog and with sunlight caressing its snowy top, the view is very lustrous.

Manang-mustang, the country beyond the mountains is a remote trekking destination in an already isolated environment. They lie in route of Annapurna circuit trek but is as equally a beautiful destination. With beautiful landscapes and varied terrains, manang-mustang is the ideal place for viewing the mountain ranges up north. The villages are remote and have simple but magnificent design and architecture. Many gumbas and monasteries can be found around manang and mustang which provide a divinity in the otherwise unaltered and completely natural environment.

What are some of the things which you would find only in Nepal?

Despite being a country covering small fraction of land, Nepal does not lack behind in hosting some of the world’s most unique and exciting things. Although being a small country, Nepal is geographically diversified which facilitates some of the world’s prime heritages like the Mount. Everest. Besides the diverse geographical assortment, Nepal also hosts some of the rare and unique wildlife and plantation which makes it the hub for scientific exploration and wildlife fanatics.

Some of the world’s highest mountains reside in Nepal with few elsewhere which makes this country a prime destination for mountain climbers and trekkers. The environment around these areas are naturally preserved with non-existent human interference which makes the visit even more exciting and beautiful. The photographs taken from these areas are considered as some of the best still shots in the worlds as the landscapes are mouth-watering to look at.

Due to the geographical distortions, Nepal holds more than 200 lakes whose origin is not the same as others. Some lakes are glacial which lies in the mountain areas whereas some lakes are tectonic which are spread all over Nepal. Nepal hosts the world highest lake, Tilicho Lake which is located at an altitude of 4,949 meters above sea level and Rara Lake which is the largest lake of Nepal and many consider Rara as the most beautiful lake in the world.

Talking about the flora and fauna residing in Nepal, there are many endangered species and many unique animals whose natural habitat is limited only to Nepal. Red panda, a species of panda in a verge of extinction is a beautiful creature who spends most of it time in trees.  Snow leopard is another preserved animal due to its decrease in number, which are found in high altitude in Nepal. Bengal tiger and one horned rhinoceros are the center of attraction of safari in Nepal. Similarly, spiny babbler is only found in Nepal as there are many endemic species also.

Nepal being geographically and biologically diverse, it is also culturally diverse which provides opportunity for the visitors to learn new lifestyles and tradition every time they visit Nepal. A multi-religion, multi-cultural, multi-racial and multi-lingual country, Nepal is renowned for its culture, tradition and festivals. With numerous temples belonging to different ethnicity, religion and culture Nepal shares a wide variety of architecture and history, which is very interesting and unique to other practices. 

Annapurna base camp trek

Undoubtedly, one of the most ideal place for sightseeing, Annapurna base camp is popularly known as the perfect viewing point of the Annapurna massif. It is a 55 km long massif with snowy tops and dry rocky bottom. The fact that the massif surrounds the basecamp makes it the most ideal place for viewing this huge structure which is a sanctuary in Nepal. The basecamp makes available the view of one of the highest peaks in the world that is the Annapurna I peak standing at a height of 8091 m including other peaks which stand tall at the height of 7000 m. The panorama from the base camp hosts is truly amazing whose prime highlights are the south face of Annapurna, Bahara Shikhar, Annapurna I, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, machhapuhcrre (fishtail), Hiun Chuli and other peaks which are inspiring to look at and a paradise for nature photographers.

The trek to the Annapurna basecamp is also exciting, which passes through all sorts of terrain and villages. The trek passes through grasslands, meadows, forest filled with rhododendron (national flower of Nepal), rocky granular terrain and snowy surfaces as well. The villages in these regions are settled in the hillside as the geographical complication inhibits the presence of plain lands which are culturally rich and build in conventional architecture. Spending time in those places would be an experience of a life-time getting to know more about the culture, practices and lifestyles of the locals in that area which would be something that is entirely different experience.

Talking about the wildlife in this region, the conservation area hosts about 100 mammals of which snow leopards and blue sheep are among the endangered list of animals. These beautiful creatures can be found in their habitat prowling around. Bird watching is also very popular in these regions as the region hosts about 478 species of birds of which the prime focus is allotted to multi colored Oimpheyanm Koklas and blood pheasant which are beautiful and rare creatures.

(March – May) spring is the  best season for the trekking to Annapurna base camp as the weather is clear and sunny which enables the pursuers to have a clear view of the beautiful landscapes around. Also, the hills are covered with beautiful rhododendron in the forests. Winter is the season when the crowd gets real thin, so this could make possible for those trekkers who love peace and isolation, to spend an alone time with the nature and enjoy the unaltered environment with minimum distraction. However, during the winter the temperature reaches to an extreme low which could prove uncomfortable to some. Summer or monsoon is really a bad season for trekking to Annapurna basecamp as the view gets bothered by the clouds and thick fogs, so it is encouraged to pursue the trek during spring or autumn.

Overall, the trek is an easy one without having to exert too much physical exertion and extreme conditions. Annapurna base camp trek is considered as a family trek due to its convenience as the trek move up wards and down wards along the path, which is a well surfaced trail.

Annapurna trek: the ideal circuit trek of Nepal

An Ideal trek should not only offer pleasant environment and beautiful landscapes but also provide opportunity to learn and experience many more. This trek is widely popular due to its stretch in attraction, which is not only limited to the viewing of landscapes but also the culture and knowledge. This circuit trek passes through four regions which consist of bub tropical valleys and beautiful villages. Marshyangdi is the location from where the trek actually kicks off. The trek to Annapurna trail is renowned for its thick forests and beautiful waterfalls which could be encountered along the trek.

The trek goes through the world’s deepest Gorge, the Kali Gandaki Gorge then elevating at an astounding height of 8091m at the east side of Annapurna I and furthermore elevation to 8167m at the west of Dhaulagiri taking the pursuers within the world’s tenth highest peak, the Annapurna. The trek guides through the world’s highest pass, the Thorong La which lies in the trek from Manang to Muktinath. Manang, reffered to as the country beyond the mountains is a beautiful district which truly reflects the lifestyles of people living apart from urbanization and modernization. The landscapes which surrounds this beautiful place is simply mesmerizing with rocky plateau which mimics a desert like surface but completely surrounded by snowy tops of beautiful mountain ranges. Muktinath offers the same allurement but with a tinge of divinity and serenity with Muktinath temple, a shrine to Hindu followers.

Another stop in the trek would be Poon Hill situated at a height of 3,210m which offers some of the most incredible mountain views of Gangapurna Mountain, Annapurna South Mountain, Annapurna I mountain, Dhaulagiri Mountain and Hiunchuli Mountain. Besides this, Poon Hill also is renowned for its mesmerizing sunrise view which arises from over the Annapurna Mountain. The trek diverses from walking over rice farms, forests, villages and dry & isolated rocky terrains. The photography taken from these parts could ideally be the best photographs whether it be the images of mountain ranges, dry terrains, architecture of the village homes, the people living in those remote areas or the flora and fauna.

However, to ensure travelling under favorable conditions it is wise to pursue the trek during the month of march till mid May which lies during the spring. Also, travelling to those remote parts in autumn during mid September to December would also prove favorable as the second half of the year. During these periods, the weather is sunny and clear view of all the beautiful structures and terrains around can be observed. Although, the day offers warm climate the night is rather cold border lining to the extreme, so it is mandatory to pack warm clothes. Travelling during winter and monsoon is a little risky and unfavorable as the weather get very cold and the snow could act as blockage in the trail. However, the trail is very clear during these seasons as the number of trekker during this time of year is extremely low which could mean a better experience of isolation and nature. Regardless, the pursuers must always ensure to check up the required news and information about the trail, weather and conditions before commencing on the trek.

Pursuing Everest trek: brave or foolish?

Everest trek probably is the one of the most enticing trek route in all over the world, simply because it leads to the highest peak in the world. Not only to the adventure seeker but also for amateur trekkers, Everest trek is simply a dream. The fact that trekkers pursuing their trek to the Everest or anywhere where close by the region has a fair share of contribution to the tourism industry. The recent earthquake and the series of aftershock had taken its toll on the trail to Everest which caused the route to be closed for any visitors, the shutdown has be taken off as the trail has been re-opened. Some obstructions and damages in the trail had been seen but within a short period of close down all the obstructions and the damages has been cleared.

The trail although has been indemnified, there are other risks that needs clarification to and facts that people need to be aware of. Although the trek trail has been repaired successfully, has the places for accommodation and the transportation route been overlooked? No, most definitely not. The Hotels and the lodge everywhere around the region of Khumbu has been inspected and more than 90% of the hotels and lodges are marked safe. Since, the major transportation medium to Khumbu region is through airways, it’s safe to say that the transportation to the trek is very much operational as both the tribhuvan international airport and the Tenzing Hilary airport in Lukla are completely unhampered and operational. However the weather condition is another factor to be considered as a form of risk but in unfavorable conditions, the flights are most likely not to take off.  So, it can be easily perceived that the transportation and the accommodation is safe without any risk involved by the damages of earthquake.

While pursuing the trek, there are certain things to be aware of which could prove in acting as a risk factor and that is the proper equipping of all the essential materials and required documents. There are lot of equipments that is required in the trek to Everest which needs to be critically analyzed before pursuing the trail. There are many safety instruction, guidelines and quick notes which needs complete consideration and studying by the trekkers so as to avoid any mishap or accidents in the process. With enough precautions and consideration to the guidelines provided by the authority, the Everest trek is as safe as any other trek in the world. This make it safe to say that pursuing the trek is not a foolish act.

Splendid highlights of the Everest trek

A trek to the Everest has always been overshadowed by the mighty structure of the Mount Everest, the highest peak of the world. While the peak is a shrine to trekkers and climbers which obviously is in the bucket list of many from all around the world, once pursued the hype gradually shifts from the peak to other aspects in the journey. The trekking along the high passes with the view of beautiful landscapes around truly validates the decision and the cost in pursuing the trek. The high passes which leads to kalapatthar, the prime site in viewing the beautiful Everest.

The journey starts from the escalation from Kathmandu to Lukla via mountain flight to Tenzing-Hillary airport. The trek begins along the Dudh Koshi River which is sandwiched between enormous hills. Along the trek, the continuous presence of extra ordinary landscapes truly contributes in the motivation in the trek as well as brings us closer to the nature and its spectacles. The rare view of monasteries and Gumbas, which lies in an otherwise isolated and natural surroundings, provides a divine intervention and a peaceful injection of the serenity. The summit of Kongma La, the first milestone in the trek offers the view of Khumbu icefall, cascading the peak.

Then, the challenging climb through Cho La leads to the cobalt-blue lakes situated at Gokyo, which is mouth-watering and also one of the prime focus of the trek. The lakes lie perfectly in harmony with the rocky boulders and the stony grains with perfectly complementing colors to the sky. After the inspiring view, the trek finally leads to Thame via Nangpa La, which is the route used by Tibetan traders for centuries. Many stories which date back centuries can be heard and the lifestyle of primitive Tibetans can be visualized through the mouth of the locals who are warm and courteous to any and all visitors.

The location is isolated with no interference in the natural state of the location which is the prime essence in any trek. Every step ahead in this trek is another opportunity for a beautiful photograph. The peaks that surround the valley, the tranquil lakes which settles between rocky boulders or the glacial moraines which lies unaltered, all these are what any adventurer dreams of and all nature lover admires. Communicating with the locals during tea house stays and in the Sherpa valley offers opportunities to learn more than what has been around about the history of the people living there and many more vital pointer in the trek which were unknown. For the brave and willing, conquering Everest could be the ideal purpose of the visit as the climb to the top of the world does not only come with recognition and the feeling of accomplishment but also comes with self-satisfaction and inner peace. The certification of the conquering of the Everest, which only few in the world have able to attain will most certainly would be the proudest possession to all who have been successful.

So maybe these are the reasons why this trek is called “the steps to heaven”.

Why is Nepal an ideal destination for mountain climbers?

The country of Himalayas which through the name itself implicates the significance of mountains in the country’s identity in the world. Himalayas refers to the mountains range which is the world’s largest mountain range, the Himalayan Range. The top 10 of the highest peak beside the mount K2 which is the world’s second highest mountain, lies within the tiny boundary which binds the territory of Nepal.  Not having to forget the world’s highest peak and a shrine to almost all of the climbers from all around the world in the contribution of making Nepal one of the most popular tourist destinations.

But is it just the high peaks that allure the climbers? Although the height of these ranges have key role in the attraction of climbers because the height and the difficulty level in pursuing the climb over the peak represents the level of achievement, there is more to it than just the feeling of accomplishment. The landscapes which the Himalayan range offers are some of the most beautiful views in the planet.

While thrill seekers and people looking for accomplishments enjoy the climbing and conquering of the peaks, there are many who prefer trekking over some of the mid-range altitudes of these ranges, purely for viewing and recreational purpose. There are many lakes, glaciers and snowy tops that truly mesmerize anyone who view such scenery. The red tint of the sun which gets projected on the mountain ranges over the snowy surfaces also is an exhibition of natural marvel.

Another reason why Nepal could be your ideal destination for pursuing climbing is the friendly nature and the warmth of the locals. Travelling to a foreign land into an almost isolated place could be fearsome and demotivating but the co-operation and helpfulness of the local residing near such locations could prove vital in times of uncertainty which can be found to be stated by many of the past visitors of Nepal.

The availability of tea house and hotel/inns also facilitates the pursuers to take some fatigue off and regain energy for further journey even up to a very high altitude. The locals also encourage home stay which allows the climbers and trekkers to refresh and at the same time gain some knowledge about the culture and lifestyle of the locals residing in that location.

Why is Nepal a better destination for adrenaline rushing tourists?

Many adrenaline junkies who are seeking a get away from their scheduled and hectic life may have a lot to choose from globally. However, Nepal hosts number of activities which can be categorized as adrenaline sport or activities. Having planned a trip primarily to pursue a single sport may not be as effective and memorable to many. Hence, Nepal could be the desired destination due to the availability of rather more number of adrenaline sport and activities which are certified and legal accepted by the government.

First on the list is paragliding which is the most popular among thrilling sport of Nepal. Paragliding over the city of pokhara, especially is preferred by many as the thrill seekers having had an experience of a lifetime can simultaneously enjoy the mesmerizing view of the Machapuchre peak and the Fewa Lake. The eagle view of such beautiful landscapes provides opportunity to the people to have a glimpse at the beautiful landscapes through the position of where birds soar in the air. Similarly para-hawking, similar to paragliding is also a sport that is best suited to those who take things to the extreme. Para-gliding in Nepal is very inexpensive and also can be pursued by those who haven’t had any experience in such field. However, provision for those with credentials and experience can pilot the experience themselves.

Bungee jumping may be a short trip down but the feeling of free falling is something which cannot be attained in any other sport. Last resort is one of the highest bungee height which makes it even more special. Furthermore, bungee jumping in Nepal is very inexpensive and also easily available without having to wait for months before finally getting the opportunity. All medical check-ups and guidelines are provided and moreover, a video at high resolution can also be obtained by the jumper if they wish to have it as a memento.

Rock climbing is a sport where people climb over the cliffs and rocky structures with the help of their hand and feet primarily beside the fact that almost every muscle gets worked up in the activity. The rocks are acutely inclined which makes the climb even more challenging. Also the availability of wall climbing also facilitates who are hoping to begin such sport before climbing the actual structure itself.

Besides these there are many sports and activities which are adrenaline rushing and tourists are unaware of. So be sure to check everything that Nepal has in store for you and pay a visit.

Why Nepal is ideal place for trekking in comparison to others?

People all over the world believe that Nepal is a hub for trekkers and voyagers but what makes Nepal the first option? There are many destinations all around the world which have geographical credential for an ideal trekking trail but some factors are more important to the adventure seekers than just rocky trails and muddy tracks.

Nepal is a tourism oriented country where even the government has declared tourism as an integral part in the development of nation. This facilitates the tourist visiting the nation with the opportunity to have a completely dedicated industry reinvented for their services and facilitation. There are many concessions and provisions for the tourists which get implemented by the government and also the local tourism oriented industry providing better and inexpensive services and facilities as a promotion of tourism in Nepal.

The fact that Nepal is naturally gifted is a miracle in itself. Such geographic and climatic diversification confound within such a small area is a fact that is surprising to many. The landscapes provides with trails and tracks that are ideal for adventures like climbing, trekking and hiking. The climate is also very favorable to people from all around the world where the temperature does not easily reach the extremities.

Other most influential factor which the tourists ideally admire is the completely unaltered and untouched natural environment and habitat. Trekkers prefer isolation from the modern urbanization and also get in touch with the well preserved nature. Nepal hosts trail and trek to peaks, mountain ranges and beautiful landscapes which is absolutely preserved.

Finally, when people hear the name “Nepal”, they imagine a divine and beautiful nation which drives them to visit it. Also the friendliness and cooperation of the people residing in Nepal is well heard of and renowned globally. The cultural diversification and the holy shrines which have both historical and religious significance also have an impact upon the adventurers who relate themselves to such beliefs and knowledge.

Why would you select Nepal as your next destination? Clearly, the final agenda would be a helping hand. Nepal is not self sufficient as many events and situation dictates the fact that Nepal still has a growing economy and history. Your visit to Nepal would be a helping hand is the prosperity in the future and a livelihood to the country. 

Souvenirs to take along after visiting Nepal

Rich in craftsmanship and ancient art, Nepal is a country that produces a lot of handicrafts, artwork and other souvenirs. The art however is influenced by the culture, history and the tradition of the Nepalese people and each style is unique to one another. Visiting Nepal would introduce the foreigners to a world where deities and ancient symbols are inscribed and replicated in various forms of souvenirs like paintings, pendants, utensils, idols, ring and many more which is a unique unconventional in the western part of the world.

Many handicraft stores have made possible the purchase of these art pieces to the people from all around the world and the skills and the expertise which the crafts man possess are traditionally passed on from generations. Usually there are different forms of handicrafts that differs from one another with the influence of varying culture, religion, ethnicity and customs.

Starting from the very common, clothes are the primary souvenirs which are mostly handmade like trousers, t-shirts, sweaters, woolen jackets, etc. However, people also are abundantly purchasing cashmere or pashmina cloth which is of excellent quality and can be used as shawl, blanket, scarves and also other forms of clothing.

Bracelets and rings are another common souvenirs found mostly around temples, monasteries and tourist destinations which have images, icons and inscriptions on them influenced from the Nepalese culture and religion. People in Nepal have a lot of faith in religion and relate themselves to the tradition in their culture which also makes the rings and bracelets an important factor in the lives of the Nepalese people.

Art pieces, usually of the Tibetan culture is profoundly popular among the tourists from all around the world. Plain paintings which reflect the symbols and images of deities as well as Thankas which are paintings involving embroidery of precious metal like gold and silver threads which are used to make beautiful designs, symbols and patterns.

Singing bowls are very common souvenirs in Nepal renowned for their pleasant ton and healing ability. These heavy bowls are of Tibetan origin but Nepalese people have mastered the crafting of high quality singing bowls. Besides these, ornaments like necklace, bracelets, rings, etc. made out of excellent quality golds and silver but also ruby, emeralds and pearls. The skilled gold and silver smiths plat their design and pattern on the ornaments to make it even more worthy of buying. Similarly, praying wheels, deity masks, idols etc. are also a good idea for souvenir to take along from Nepal.

Cultural programs in Nepal: an up growing tourist attraction

One of the few up sides of having various cultures is the similarly diverse entertainment aspect. When it comes to cultural programs, there isn’t enough ink to write about each and every one of them. Tourism greatly influenced by the adventure oriented activities is now being slowly shifting towards the cultural and traditional aspects of Nepal. Nepal hosts numerous programs and events which showcases such cultural practices with an entertainment value. Tourism is based on the urge of knowing the foreign land which may be the geographical surrounding or the cultural practices.

If you are looking forward for a fascinating glimpse of the diverse ethnic tradition as forms of folk dance, music, songs and many more, the cultural programs would prove beneficial in such cases. There are many restaurants, hotels and recreational areas which feature cultural programs as a source of attraction to the tourists interested in familiarizing themselves to the unique cultures of Nepal. Nepalese folk dances which involves traditional music and steps, is performed by descendants of the respective culture in cultural uniforms along with a brief introduction to their cultural background.

Deuda dance is a folk dance originated from the western part of Nepal is a dance pleasing to the eyes and pleasant melodies. Background to the dance is the celebration of festivals which are ritual wishing for a long life of the husbands and demonstration of love and affection between the males and the females.

Ghatu dance is a folk dance performed by Gurung and Magar, ethnics groups of Nepal in which the female performers wear ornaments and bright colored traditional uniforms whereas the male wear their plain black and while traditional Dress. The performance is a harmony between the males and females along with classical music.

Similarly, folk dances comprises of mungrahawa dance which is performed by the Tharu community especially in Chitwan, Sauraha as a source of attraction. Also called stick dance, mungrahawa is fun to view along with sweet melodies playing in the background.

Folk songs can be heard all around the country during special events and festivals. During Tihar, the festival of lights, people are seen singing deusi and bhailo which is a song that is sung from house to house, asking the homeowners for some treats and cash. During Buddha purnima, a melodious song and humming can be heard by the followers and the monks in monasteries which is quite pleasing to the ears as well as mind. 

Festivals and occasions in Nepal: an integral part of tourism

A country culturally and traditionally diverse, with over hundreds of festivals and cultural events, Nepal hosts some of the most exciting festivals and events in the world. Tourists take part in the festivals and occasions, allowing them to understand and be familiarized with the country’s culture, tradition and rituals at the same time experiencing something very unique than their usual culture.

One of the most popular festivals among the tourists is Holi which is celebrated in the commemoration of the love of Radha and Lord Krishna who is a Hindu deity. This festivals is also called the festival of colors as people celebrate Holi by putting colors on each other’s faces to demonstrate friendship and respect. However, many events take place during Holi which involves pool party, drinks, food festivals, concerts and many more which could be a really refreshing as well as exciting occasion.

Tihar, the festival of lights is one of the most culturally significant festivals which is done in the worship of Godess Laxmi and many more. During Tihar, the cities all around Nepal is glittered with lights and colors. The view is quite pleasant and a hub for cultural photographers, looking for their next big art or project. Tihar is also celebrated by singing and dancing, where people go from one house to the other to perform for money and gifts.

Buddha jayanti, is the occasion celebrated at the day of the birth of Buddha who is the founder of Buddhism. Many Buddhists as well as other religious followers can be seen taking part in the celebration of the birth of Buddha. The celebrations takes place primarily on a large scale in Bouddha Stupa and Swayambhu Stupa which are some of the oldest and holiest shrine in the religion of Buddhism. The ambience during Buddha Jayanti is very divine and calm even though the place get crowded with followers from all around the world. The Stupas are lit with candles and lights which really complements the environments, also an ideal occasion for photography.

All in all, there are many events and festivals which takes place on a periodic basis which are celebrated whole heartedly. Being a part of it should always be of a prime concern to the tourists from all around the world as it serves you with a completely unique and unconventional experience as well as knowledge. So plan your trips with coincides with some of the most decorated and fun festivals in Nepal.

Important Tips for Nepal Travelers

source: tripadvisor.com
source:travelagewest.com                        
1 – Do not trek alone. There have been numerous disappearances of solo trekkers in recent years. Always hire a guide or trek with other people. There are online forums where  travelers can look for fellow-trekkers. This applies to everyone but especially women that are travelling single – they seem to more vulnerable. Always communicate your travel plans to your next of kin.
                                                                                                                                                           
                                                                                         
2 – Food safety - Avoid water that is not bottled or boiled.   Avoid raw vegetables and pre-cut fruit as much as possible.

3 – Even though Nepal is known for its pristine environment and beauty – not the highways and major city streets. They are crowded with traffic, full of smoke and bumpy and dusty. Hence travelling on a bicycle or a motorbike for the most part is not advisable. There are some off-road mountain bike trails that are ok to do.

4 - Do not give money to beggars that you see on the streets. Even though they look pitiful, your giving away of money encourages them only to beg for more. If you really care support one of many charity organizations working in Nepal .

5 – Be sure to exchange back all the Nepalese currencies before you leave. They are not accepted (or even exchanged for that matter) outside of Nepal . Besides, taking currency out of the country is against the law.

6 – Do not touch someone’s head or sit showing the bottom of your feet towards them. It is considered rude.

7 – Do not fully rely on schedules and times that are committed to you whether in verbal or written while you are in Nepal . They may not commence in time as stated or committed and may end up disrupting all your subsequent schedule. Have time buffer as much as you can between your major plans and activities, especially if you have a hard stop date that you need to fly out by.

8 - Always be alert/aware of “Bandhs” (Strikes – where no transportation is allowed) as they can alter all your travel plans substantially.

9 – Do not assume that “ganja” (marijuana) is legal in Nepal . It is not. Even though it is a common weed on hillsides you can get in trouble for picking it and carrying it for consumption purpose.

10 – Do not assume that when a Nepali says “yes” or shakes the head in affirmation that it is a done deal or they agree with you. Re-confirm using simplest of words but being as direct as possible to make sure.

11 - Stay away from dance bars in KTM and PKR. These are tourist traps where they scam you on buying alcohol and food at much inflated prices. Some of these places have a history of intimidation and violence.

12- If you are planning to apply for the Visa at the airport, make sure to have passport size photo available. Plan B is to have your photo taken at the booth at the airport.

13- There are daily scheduled power outages. Have a flashlight handy all the times.

14 - All nightlife pretty much ends by 10 pm with only a few places around the Thamel area that may stay open a little later.

15 - Bring a universal plug and voltage adapter kit for your Electronics. Nepal uses 220V.

16 - Keep in mind that there may be an entrance fee to some of the common temples and public areas applicable only to foreigners ranging anywhere from 250R's - 700R's.

17 - Always have some tissue paper and hand sanitizer with you at all times – and note that some of the toilets may require squatting.

18 – Insist for a Running Meter in the Taxi. After 10 PM you do pay double of the meter fare however – that’s the commonly accepted norm.

19 - Avoid displaying food around monkeys around temples, as they are used to snatching it.

20 - Support the NON-Plastic Initiative, please limit your use of plastic items, and help make Nepal a better place.

How is Nepal a designated place for self actualization?

Maslow hierarchy of needs explain that the final stage in a human’s life is self actualization which is beyond the physiological and social need. There are many forms of self actualization and it merely depends upon the person. There are many opportunities for people all around the world to pursue their mode of self actualization as there are many ways to achieve it in Nepal.

The first form of attaining self actualization is by getting in touch with the nature. People who have had a stressful and hectic life tend to have their view of self actualization as isolation from the luxury and technology into the midst of nature. This helps the people to get in touch with themselves and find out their inner peace. There are many destinations in Nepal which are considered ideal for people who believe that their form of self actualization is through isolation and being amidst unaltered and completely natural environment.

Beside this, taking up a religion is also one of the most prominent forms of self actualization. Buddhism is the prime religion whose ideologies and concept overlaps the concept of those seeking actualization through religion. Adapting religion is completely a knowledge based form of self actualization where the people try and find the true meaning of life and existence of humanity. Many monasteries in Nepal are open to anyone who is in the search of self actualization through Buddhism and the ideologies of Buddha have truly inspired many.

Obtaining satisfaction through helping others is not a common thing but dedicating one’s life to the well being of others is a form of self actualization which has been attained by many. This can be done not only through charity work but also by contributing through activities and programs. Involvement in the deprived sector where the need for help and support is required could be a prime source for self actualization. Fields such as health and education in the rural region of Nepal is very backward and the contribution to such sectors would also be much appreciated.

So have a lifetime of experience in  Nepal and choose your form of self actualization.