Many of us tend to think of Sherpas as a group of specialized porters, but they are in reality one of the ethnic groups of peoples that can be found in the beautiful mountainous regions of Nepal. Geographically speaking Sherpas are generally found in the high, eastern regions of the Himalayas and some 3 000 Sherpas can be found in the Khumbu valley near Mount Everest. There are well over 10 000 Sherpas in Nepal and of these very view have chosen to brave the beautiful mountains of the region and help foreigners fulfill their dreams.
What makes the Sherpa people so special? Because of their way of life and the fact that they live on the southern side of Mount Everest at a high altitude, their physical ability in this sort of environment is unmatched. Many famous Sherpas have been able to make use of this fact to support a number of ground-breaking climbing expeditions in the Himalayas. Sherpas are so important to the success of climbing here that they form the backbone of every climbing expedition; it is highly unlikely that an attempted climb will be successful unless there is at least one knowledgeable and experienced Sherpa in the group.
Despite the fact that the indisputable value and contribution of these people is often undervalued and overlooked, a number of Sherpa have made their way into the history books of mountain climbing. Perhaps one of the most famous Sherpas ever is Tenzing Norgay. Norgay accompanied Sir Edmund Hillary on his monumental, world-famous climb up Mount Everest and he has certainly participated in more than one successful climb during the course of his career. Other Sherpas who have become noteworthy for their achievements include Nawang Gombu, Babu Chhiri, Temba Tsheri, and Ming Kipa, amongst others.
Despite the success and fame that many Sherpa have achieved, the majority have chosen to stick to the traditional customs that they have grown up with. Most Sherpa grow their own food and breed yaks, making their own clothing and supplies from that which surrounds them. They are an intensely interesting people and it is worth taking the time to get to know them if you can. You will find that it is an experience that you are unlikely to ever forget.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Decorated Bhairav, Indra Jatra
Festivals by Month
April - May/Baisakh
July-August/Sravan
August-Sept./Bhadra
Sept.-Oct./Ashwin
Oct.-Nov./Kartik
Nepal is a land of Festivals. 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 gods and goddesses and they are celebrated on such days consecrated for them by religion and tradition.
Others are observed in honor of personal relatives such as festivals of Matatirtha and Gaijatra. Yet other are held to herald the different seasons or to mark the beginning or end of agricultural cycle. Some festivals are of national significance such as Dashain or Tihar; some are confined to the Katmandu Valley, while still others are celebrated only within one or two villages or cities.
April - May/Baisakh
July-August/Sravan
August-Sept./Bhadra
Sept.-Oct./Ashwin
Oct.-Nov./Kartik
Nepal is a land of Festivals. 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 gods and goddesses and they are celebrated on such days consecrated for them by religion and tradition.
Others are observed in honor of personal relatives such as festivals of Matatirtha and Gaijatra. Yet other are held to herald the different seasons or to mark the beginning or end of agricultural cycle. Some festivals are of national significance such as Dashain or Tihar; some are confined to the Katmandu Valley, while still others are celebrated only within one or two villages or cities.
LAKES
There are number of lakes and tanks of glacial and tectonic origin in Nepal. Mountain lakes like Rara, Phoksundo, Phewa etc., are majestic in extent and beauty.
Rara in Mugu district of western Nepal is the countryÕs largest lake. Phewa at Pokhara is another equally famous lake. Phoksundo in Dolpa Distric is yet another big lake but is less well known than Phewa Lake due to its difficult approach. Rupatal and Begnastal (Pokhara), Gaduwaltal (Chitwan), Satyavatilal (Palpa), Khaptadtal (Doti), Barhakunetal (Dang), Surma Sarobar (Bajhang) and Tilichotal (Manang) are some of NepalÕs other well-known lakes.
Gosainkunda and other lakes in the Langtang Himal region are of religious significance.
Rara in Mugu district of western Nepal is the countryÕs largest lake. Phewa at Pokhara is another equally famous lake. Phoksundo in Dolpa Distric is yet another big lake but is less well known than Phewa Lake due to its difficult approach. Rupatal and Begnastal (Pokhara), Gaduwaltal (Chitwan), Satyavatilal (Palpa), Khaptadtal (Doti), Barhakunetal (Dang), Surma Sarobar (Bajhang) and Tilichotal (Manang) are some of NepalÕs other well-known lakes.
Gosainkunda and other lakes in the Langtang Himal region are of religious significance.
Rivers of Nepal
Nepal's rivers can be broadly divided into three categories in accordance with their origins. The first category comprises the three main river systems of the country-the Koshi, Gandaki and Karnali river systems, all of them originating from glaciers and snow-fed lakes.
The Koshi river system consists of the Tamor, Arun, Dudhkoshi, Likhu, Tamakoshi, Sunkoshi and Indravati rivers. Of these, the Arun and Sunkoshi originate in Tibet. The confluence of these rivers is at Tribeni (near Dharan) in Sagarmatha Zone. Flowing for almost 10kms through a narrow gorge before entering the plains, the "Sapta Kosi" or he "Koshi" swollen with the waters of the seven riversÕ finally merges into the Ganges.
The Gandaki river system in central Nepal consists of the Kaligandaki, Budhigandaki, Marsyanghi, Trishuli, Seti, Madi and Daraundi rivers. The Kaligandaki is the longest river and the Trishuli, the main tributary of this system.
The Kaligandaki originates in Mustang and converges with the Trishuli at Deoghat in Chitwan. The river is then called the Narayani and goes on to meet the Ganges. The Karnali river system in western Nepal consists of the Humla Karnali, Mugu Karnali, Seti and Bheri rivers and is the longest river system in the country. The Humla Karnali, which rises in Tibet, is the main tributary. After entering India, this river assumes the name Gogra.
Rivers like the Mechi, Mahakali, Bagmati, Kamala, Rapti, etc., most of which have their origin in the Mahabharat range, constitute the rivers of the second category. The Bagmati, which rises at Bagdwar and drains out through the Chobhar gorge, is the principal river of the Katmandu Valley.
Streams and rivulets originating mostly from the Chure hills make up the third category; these rivers rely on monsoon rains and are otherwise dry.
Trisuli river
Kaligandaki Gorge
Kaligandaki river-Deepest river gorge in the world
Rivers of Nepal
Nepal's rivers can be broadly divided into three categories in accordance with their origins. The first category comprises the three main river systems of the country-the Koshi, Gandaki and Karnali river systems, all of them originating from glaciers and snow-fed lakes.
The Koshi river system consists of the Tamor, Arun, Dudhkoshi, Likhu, Tamakoshi, Sunkoshi and Indravati rivers. Of these, the Arun and Sunkoshi originate in Tibet. The confluence of these rivers is at Tribeni (near Dharan) in Sagarmatha Zone. Flowing for almost 10kms through a narrow gorge before entering the plains, the "Sapta Kosi" or he "Koshi" swollen with the waters of the seven riversÕ finally merges into the Ganges.
The Gandaki river system in central Nepal consists of the Kaligandaki, Budhigandaki, Marsyanghi, Trishuli, Seti, Madi and Daraundi rivers. The Kaligandaki is the longest river and the Trishuli, the main tributary of this system.
The Kaligandaki originates in Mustang and converges with the Trishuli at Deoghat in Chitwan. The river is then called the Narayani and goes on to meet the Ganges. The Karnali river system in western Nepal consists of the Humla Karnali, Mugu Karnali, Seti and Bheri rivers and is the longest river system in the country. The Humla Karnali, which rises in Tibet, is the main tributary. After entering India, this river assumes the name Gogra.
Rivers like the Mechi, Mahakali, Bagmati, Kamala, Rapti, etc., most of which have their origin in the Mahabharat range, constitute the rivers of the second category. The Bagmati, which rises at Bagdwar and drains out through the Chobhar gorge, is the principal river of the Katmandu Valley.
Streams and rivulets originating mostly from the Chure hills make up the third category; these rivers rely on monsoon rains and are otherwise dry.
Trisuli river
Kaligandaki Gorge
Kaligandaki river-Deepest river gorge in the world
The Koshi river system consists of the Tamor, Arun, Dudhkoshi, Likhu, Tamakoshi, Sunkoshi and Indravati rivers. Of these, the Arun and Sunkoshi originate in Tibet. The confluence of these rivers is at Tribeni (near Dharan) in Sagarmatha Zone. Flowing for almost 10kms through a narrow gorge before entering the plains, the "Sapta Kosi" or he "Koshi" swollen with the waters of the seven riversÕ finally merges into the Ganges.
The Gandaki river system in central Nepal consists of the Kaligandaki, Budhigandaki, Marsyanghi, Trishuli, Seti, Madi and Daraundi rivers. The Kaligandaki is the longest river and the Trishuli, the main tributary of this system.
The Kaligandaki originates in Mustang and converges with the Trishuli at Deoghat in Chitwan. The river is then called the Narayani and goes on to meet the Ganges. The Karnali river system in western Nepal consists of the Humla Karnali, Mugu Karnali, Seti and Bheri rivers and is the longest river system in the country. The Humla Karnali, which rises in Tibet, is the main tributary. After entering India, this river assumes the name Gogra.
Rivers like the Mechi, Mahakali, Bagmati, Kamala, Rapti, etc., most of which have their origin in the Mahabharat range, constitute the rivers of the second category. The Bagmati, which rises at Bagdwar and drains out through the Chobhar gorge, is the principal river of the Katmandu Valley.
Streams and rivulets originating mostly from the Chure hills make up the third category; these rivers rely on monsoon rains and are otherwise dry.
Trisuli river
Kaligandaki Gorge
Kaligandaki river-Deepest river gorge in the world
Rivers of Nepal
Nepal's rivers can be broadly divided into three categories in accordance with their origins. The first category comprises the three main river systems of the country-the Koshi, Gandaki and Karnali river systems, all of them originating from glaciers and snow-fed lakes.
The Koshi river system consists of the Tamor, Arun, Dudhkoshi, Likhu, Tamakoshi, Sunkoshi and Indravati rivers. Of these, the Arun and Sunkoshi originate in Tibet. The confluence of these rivers is at Tribeni (near Dharan) in Sagarmatha Zone. Flowing for almost 10kms through a narrow gorge before entering the plains, the "Sapta Kosi" or he "Koshi" swollen with the waters of the seven riversÕ finally merges into the Ganges.
The Gandaki river system in central Nepal consists of the Kaligandaki, Budhigandaki, Marsyanghi, Trishuli, Seti, Madi and Daraundi rivers. The Kaligandaki is the longest river and the Trishuli, the main tributary of this system.
The Kaligandaki originates in Mustang and converges with the Trishuli at Deoghat in Chitwan. The river is then called the Narayani and goes on to meet the Ganges. The Karnali river system in western Nepal consists of the Humla Karnali, Mugu Karnali, Seti and Bheri rivers and is the longest river system in the country. The Humla Karnali, which rises in Tibet, is the main tributary. After entering India, this river assumes the name Gogra.
Rivers like the Mechi, Mahakali, Bagmati, Kamala, Rapti, etc., most of which have their origin in the Mahabharat range, constitute the rivers of the second category. The Bagmati, which rises at Bagdwar and drains out through the Chobhar gorge, is the principal river of the Katmandu Valley.
Streams and rivulets originating mostly from the Chure hills make up the third category; these rivers rely on monsoon rains and are otherwise dry.
Trisuli river
Kaligandaki Gorge
Kaligandaki river-Deepest river gorge in the world
Himalayas
The Himalayas or "abode of snow" is in fact the youngest and highest mountain system in the world. It extends over 2,400kms as a vast south-facing area between the Indus and Brahmaputra rivers with Nanga Parbat (8,125m) and Namcha Barwa (7,755m) as its terminal high points. Fully a third of 800kms of its central section traverses Nepal and is known as the Nepal Himalayas, Here congregate more than 250 peaks that exceed 6,000m in height-a unique concentration of lofty dazzling summits. Of the thirty one Himalayan peaks over 7,600m, twenty-two like in Nepal Himalayas including eight of the world's fourteen highest giants. These are:
Sagarmatha(Mt. Everest)
8,848m
Kanchenjunga
8,586m
Lhotse
8,516m
Makalu
8,463m
Cho Oyu
8,201m
Dhaulagiri
8,167m
Manaslu
8,163m
Annapurna
8,091m
The Himalayan range within Nepal fits into a geographic pattern as the culmination of a series of parallel ranges. The main mountain region, represented by the eternal ranges, lies about 90kms north of the Mahabharat Lekh. The intervening space between the two parallel ranges is made up of the lower belt of the low hills (Pahar) and the higher belt of elevated ridges (Lekh) that provide the first intimation of the high snow continuous range but rather a chain of lofty ridges separated by deep gorges. Each of these mountain chains or Himals in turn sends out a maze of spurs studded with numerous peaks.
In the western and central Nepal, there is yet another mountain range that defines the boundary between Nepal and China. This border range has elevations ranging from 5,000 to 6,000m with comparatively less rugged relief but a harsh climate. Between the main Himalayan range and these border ranges lie some of the elevated Bhot Valleys.
Much of the high country above 5,000m is under the realm of snow and ice although the permanent snow line may vary according to aspect and gradient. Winter snowfall occurs up to an elevation of 2,000m and is much heavier in the western part. While winter is harsh and bitter, summer is the season of alpine flowers and is the time of the year when the high pastures teem with grazing animals from lower valleys. For the mountain communities, it is the time for harvesting their main crop before their winter migration to warmer climates.
Ganga Purna
.
Annaprun Sanctuary
Sagarmatha(Mt. Everest)
8,848m
Kanchenjunga
8,586m
Lhotse
8,516m
Makalu
8,463m
Cho Oyu
8,201m
Dhaulagiri
8,167m
Manaslu
8,163m
Annapurna
8,091m
The Himalayan range within Nepal fits into a geographic pattern as the culmination of a series of parallel ranges. The main mountain region, represented by the eternal ranges, lies about 90kms north of the Mahabharat Lekh. The intervening space between the two parallel ranges is made up of the lower belt of the low hills (Pahar) and the higher belt of elevated ridges (Lekh) that provide the first intimation of the high snow continuous range but rather a chain of lofty ridges separated by deep gorges. Each of these mountain chains or Himals in turn sends out a maze of spurs studded with numerous peaks.
In the western and central Nepal, there is yet another mountain range that defines the boundary between Nepal and China. This border range has elevations ranging from 5,000 to 6,000m with comparatively less rugged relief but a harsh climate. Between the main Himalayan range and these border ranges lie some of the elevated Bhot Valleys.
Much of the high country above 5,000m is under the realm of snow and ice although the permanent snow line may vary according to aspect and gradient. Winter snowfall occurs up to an elevation of 2,000m and is much heavier in the western part. While winter is harsh and bitter, summer is the season of alpine flowers and is the time of the year when the high pastures teem with grazing animals from lower valleys. For the mountain communities, it is the time for harvesting their main crop before their winter migration to warmer climates.
Ganga Purna
.
Annaprun Sanctuary
Discover the History of Nepal
The early history of Nepal is quite vague, though pieces of it can be picked up here and there from various historical treasures. Although there is archaeological evidence to suggest that Nepal was already home to quite a few groups of people by the first century BC, very little is known of the early peoples who first inhabited the valley. A massive event that occurred in the Asaka era is thought to have taken place in 78 AD, which makes this the first known period of the area's history. Some time later the Kirata people seem to have arrived to make their home in this fertile valley. Believed to be of Tibeto-Burman origin, the descendants of these ancient people are most like the Rai, Limbu and Sunuwar people of Nepal.
It is thought that the Kiratis arrived during the 7th or 8th century from the east. It would seem that during the time of the Kirata, the Kathmandu Valley was divided up into several self-governed areas that were somewhat united as one larger kingdom. One of the Kirata Chieftains who ruled during this time, Ghatotkacha son of Bhima, was later mentioned in the epic Sanskrit Mahabharata text of ancient India. From this mention it can be known that the ancient Kirata people hunted animals by digging pits and that the King of the Kirata enjoyed favorable political relations with the King of Persia. Archaeological evidence has also revealed that the Kiratas were excellent sheep farmers and that they carried long knives. Despite the fact that so little is known of the Kirata people, several famous Kiratas have made their way into the history books and some still continue to affect the lives of those living today. These are Lord Shiva, Lord Buddha and Valmiki (who later wrote the Ramayana).
From about 400 AD, the Kirata empire fell into a massive decline and was replaced by the Licchavi Dynasty. Sometime later the Malla family picked up the pieces of the Licchavi family and continued to rule over the ever-growing valley empire. The Malla Dynasty was in turn replaced by the Shah Dynasty. Eventually democracy arrived in Nepal and this major development was unfortunately followed by Civil War. Clearly the history of Nepal is quite interesting but the best way to learn more is really to visit Nepal for yourself
It is thought that the Kiratis arrived during the 7th or 8th century from the east. It would seem that during the time of the Kirata, the Kathmandu Valley was divided up into several self-governed areas that were somewhat united as one larger kingdom. One of the Kirata Chieftains who ruled during this time, Ghatotkacha son of Bhima, was later mentioned in the epic Sanskrit Mahabharata text of ancient India. From this mention it can be known that the ancient Kirata people hunted animals by digging pits and that the King of the Kirata enjoyed favorable political relations with the King of Persia. Archaeological evidence has also revealed that the Kiratas were excellent sheep farmers and that they carried long knives. Despite the fact that so little is known of the Kirata people, several famous Kiratas have made their way into the history books and some still continue to affect the lives of those living today. These are Lord Shiva, Lord Buddha and Valmiki (who later wrote the Ramayana).
From about 400 AD, the Kirata empire fell into a massive decline and was replaced by the Licchavi Dynasty. Sometime later the Malla family picked up the pieces of the Licchavi family and continued to rule over the ever-growing valley empire. The Malla Dynasty was in turn replaced by the Shah Dynasty. Eventually democracy arrived in Nepal and this major development was unfortunately followed by Civil War. Clearly the history of Nepal is quite interesting but the best way to learn more is really to visit Nepal for yourself
Monday, October 26, 2009
AIR SERVICES
Several airlines have direct and non-stop flights from Europe and Asia to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu, the only international airport in Nepal. The national carrier, Royal Nepal Airlines Corporation, RNAC, has flights to eight international cities in seven different countries. One can enter Nepal by land from India. The most common entry points are Kakarbhitta (eastern Nepal), Birgunj and Bhairahawa (South Central Nepal).
Tourism Destination in Nepal:
The Himalayan Kingdom has the richest and most diverse culture landscapes anywhere. Nepal is the holy land of Lord Pashupatinath and Gautam Buddha where the Hindus and Buddhists have lived together in harmony for centuries. The Temple of Pashupatinath is Nepal/s most scared Hindu shrine and one of the four most important cities in the world for Shiva worshippers. Lord Buddha, the light of Asia, was born in Lumbini in Nepal/s southern plains, which makes Nepal a scared pilgrimage destination for Buddhists as well.
The rich tapestry of the cultural heritage of Nepal is synthesized in the Kathmandu Valley. The three ancient cities of the Valley- Patan, Kathmandu, Bhaktapur-represent an epitome of harmony in urban design, elegant architecture and refined culture. These cities pack a concentration of religious monuments unequalled in the world. Don/t miss the seven monument zones named as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO all situated within the small confines of the Valley.
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Adventure in Nepal
Nepal is a perfect destinations for those who are longing for a perfect adventure time. Here you can enjoy the thrilling moments thorugh rafting, Paragliding, Jungle Safari, Mountaineering, Trekking, Mountain flight, hot air ballooning, Bungy jumping, Sightseeing and many more...
PEOPLE & SOCIETY
Nepal has a long-standing feudal tradition with the priestly class of Brahmins and the warrior class of Chhetris dominating the caste-based hierarchy. Nepalese also divide themselves into Paharis, Madeshis and Bhotias: hill people, plains folk and those from the northern border respectively. The sure-footed Sherpas and Tamangs live a largely nomadic life in the upper Himalayas. Madeshis are largely of Tibetan-Burmese origin including groups such as the Rais, Limbus, Jirels, Gurungs, Thapalis and Chepangs.
The plains-settlers are mostly Indo-Aryan groups like the Tharus, Rajputs, Rajvashis, Dhimlas and Dhangars. Across communities males dominate and male life expectancy is, not surprisingly, higher.
The Newaris, who make up about 4% of the population, are thought to be among the earliest inhabitants of this mountain country. They practice a synthesis of Buddhism and Hinduism and Tibetan influences can be seen in their language and art. Newari cuisine and art stands apart from the others. Strong flavours, heavy spice and buffalo meat figure prominently on the table. Newari wall hangings called Paubha paintings are simpler versions of the Tibetan Thanka.
For a long time the inhabitants of the terai, tribes such as the Tharus, Safars, Yadavs, Rajvanshis and Dhimlas and the resident fauna, were protected by marauding hordes of malarial mosquitoes. With the coming of the road (east-west highway), quinine and insect repellent, the terai is now accessible like never before. With the coming of airplanes and canned oxygen, so too are the great Himalayas. Consequently all of Nepal, people, animals, and the land alike, is dealing with the angst of 'development'.
There is a sizeable population of Indians and Tibetans in Nepal too. In many cases, they settled generations ago and are now indistinguishable from the indigenous people
NEPAL CULTURE
Nepal has several ancient pilgrimage sites. Each temple is attached to a legend or belief that glorifies the miraculous powers of its deity. Kathmandu Valley is home to the famous Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhu Stupa and several other famous temples. Hundreds of famous temples are located in and around the Kathmandu Valley.
Some well-known pilgramage sites are: Barah Chhetra, Halesi Mahadev, Janakpur, Pathibhara, Tengboche in East Nepal; Manakaman, Gorkha, Lumbini, Muktinath, Gosainkunda, Tansen, Kathmandu Valley in Central Nepal; and Swargadwari, Khaptad Ashram in West Nepal.
Nepal is also the Gateway to Kailash Mansarovar, the mythical abode of Lord Shiva. Devotees from various parts of Nepal and India throng the temples during special festivals. Even though weak infrastructure renders some places hard to reach, efforts are being made on national level to develop and promote some popular sites.
Pilgrimage sites of Nepal like Muktinath and Gosainkunda make popular trekking destinations. Tours to these sites are encouraged for the novelty they provide in terms of nature and culture.
NEPAL HISTORY
While Nepal is an ancient land, it has only been a country for about 300 years. Independent hill states ruled the area until the late 18th century, when Prince Prithvi Narayan Shah united all of what is now Nepal. The nation became a constitutional monarchy in 1950, before slipping into a dictatorship eight years later. Demonstrations in the late 1980s against oppressive rule resulted in multiparty elections in May 1991. The transition to democracy has not been an easy one, however. The country is plagued by an ineffective bureaucracy, corruption and an ever-widening gap between rich and poor.
Partly because of these problems, Maoist rebels based in western Nepal have been fighting a small-scale war against the central government since the mid-1990s.
In June 2001 the popular King Birendra and much of the royal family was killed in the palace by a gunman, apparently the crown prince, who himself died of a gunshot wound sustained that night (believed to be self-inflicted). Public grief and conspiracy theories about the unknown motivation of the massacre paralyzed the country for several weeks. The country's monarch is now the late king's brother, Gyanendra
Partly because of these problems, Maoist rebels based in western Nepal have been fighting a small-scale war against the central government since the mid-1990s.
In June 2001 the popular King Birendra and much of the royal family was killed in the palace by a gunman, apparently the crown prince, who himself died of a gunshot wound sustained that night (believed to be self-inflicted). Public grief and conspiracy theories about the unknown motivation of the massacre paralyzed the country for several weeks. The country's monarch is now the late king's brother, Gyanendra
Dance and music
Legends state that dances in the Indian subcontinent originated in the abode of Lord Shiva - the Himalayas and the Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal - where he performed the tandava dance. This indicates that dance traditions of Nepal are of very ancient origin. With altitudes and ethnicity, the dances of Nepal slightly change in style as well as in the dance costumes. Accompanying music and musical instruments also change in tune with the themes, which revolve around topics like harvesting of crops, marriage rites, war stories, a lonely girl’s yearning for her love, and several other themes and stories from everyday life in the villages.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Festivals and celebrations
Several of the festivals of Nepal last from one day to several days. Dashain is the longest and the most important festival of Nepal. Generally Dashain falls in late September to mid October, right after the end of the monsoon season in Nepal. It is "a day of Victory over Demons". Tihar is another important festival of Nepal.
Other important festivals include Buddha Jayanti (the celebration of the birth of Buddha); Maha Shivaratri, a festival of Lord Shiva, and during Maha Shivaratri festivities, some people consume excessive drinks and smoke charas. Sherpas, mostly located at higher altitudes and in the Everest region, celebrate Mani Rimdu, for the good of the world. Most festivals include dancing and music and eating all kinds of local delicacies. A variety of foods is consumed during festivals and on special occasions. If one has to taste Nepali food, Newa cuisine is a must have; a festive meal, like one served during a marriage, is a real treat, and include vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian dishes.
Other important festivals include Buddha Jayanti (the celebration of the birth of Buddha); Maha Shivaratri, a festival of Lord Shiva, and during Maha Shivaratri festivities, some people consume excessive drinks and smoke charas. Sherpas, mostly located at higher altitudes and in the Everest region, celebrate Mani Rimdu, for the good of the world. Most festivals include dancing and music and eating all kinds of local delicacies. A variety of foods is consumed during festivals and on special occasions. If one has to taste Nepali food, Newa cuisine is a must have; a festive meal, like one served during a marriage, is a real treat, and include vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian dishes.
Languages and literatures
As per 2001 census, at least 92 different living languages are spoken in Nepal, though other studies list 123 living languages[1]. Nepal’s linguistic heritage has evolved from three major language groups, namely, Indo-Aryan, Tibeto-Burman, and indigenous. The major languages of Nepal (percent spoken as mother tongue) are Nepali (49%), Maithili (12%), Bhojpuri (8%), Tharu (6%), Tamang (5%), Newari/Nepal Bhasa (4%), Magar (3%), Awadhi (2%), Bantawa (2%), Limbu (1%), and Bajjika (1%). The remaining languages are each spoken as mother tongue by less than one percent of the population, for example Dura. Nepali, written in Devanagari script, is the official, national language and serves as lingua franca among Nepalese of different ethno-linguistic groups. In the southern Terai Region, (5 to 10 mile wide stretch of flat plains, which is a northward continuation of Gangetic plains of India), Hindi is also spoken. Extinct languages of Nepal include Kusunda and Waling. Among notable Nepalese literary writers is Parijat.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Religions and philosophy
Main article: Religion in Nepal
A Buddhist MonasteryThe 2001 census identified 80.6% of the population as Hindu and Buddhism was practiced by about 11% of the population (although many people labelled Hindu or Buddhist often practice a syncretic blend of Hinduism, Buddhism and/or animist traditions). About 4.2% of the population is Muslim and 3.6% of the population follows the indigenous Kirant religion. Christianity is practiced officially by less than 0.5% of the population.
Hindu and Buddhist traditions in Nepal go back to more than two millennia. In Lumbini, Buddha was born, and Pashupatinath temple, Kathamandu, is an old and famous Shiva temple of Hindus. Nepal has several other temples and Buddhist monasteries as well as places of worship of other religious groups. Traditionally, Nepalese philosophical thoughts are ingrained with the Hindu and Buddhist philosophical ethos and traditions, which include elements of Kashmir Shaivism, Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism, works of Karmacharyas of Bhaktapur, and a variety of tantric traditions. Tantric traditions are deep rooted in Nepal, including the practice of animal sacrifices. Five types of animals, always male, are considered acceptable for sacrifice: water buffalo, goats, sheep, chickens, and ducks.
With a multiplicity of groups, Nepal has several cults, and gods and goddesses, which co-exist with the major religions. In its long cultural history, Nepal has always remained a land of religious harmony.
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