Monday, October 20, 2014

Araniko Highway The Scariest Highway In Nepal

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Sino-Nepal Friendship Bridge


The Araniko Highway  connects Kathmandu with Kodari, 115 kilometres (71 mi) northeast of the Kathmandu Valley, on the Nepal-China border. It is among the most dangerous of highways in Nepal due to extremely steep slopes on each side of the road from Barabise onwards, massive landslides. It also connects China National Highway to Lhasa after passing through Nepal-China Friendship Bridge. Araniko Highway, which was built by the Chinese Government and completed in 1966, is now a lasting symbol of the friendly relations between the two neighboring countries, promoting not just trade but also people-to-people contact. The highway offers alpine views of hilly region of Nepal with spectacular views of great snow- clad peaks. Along the side of highways many adventures activities such as Rafting, Kayaking, Canyoning and Fishing are done.

The highway, which ends at the Sino-Nepal Friendship Bridge, links up with China National Highway towards Lhasa. The Araniko Highway is the only land route that connects Kathmandu to Tibet. It was built on the legendary and difficult caravan route from the capital of Nepal to Tibet used by travelers and traders during ancient times.

 araniko highway nepalTraders from Kathmandu sold food items, handicrafts and spices to Tibet while Tibetan sold salt and gold to Nepal. The highway not only connects Kathmandu to Tibet but also several villages that lay across the route in the north-eastern part of Nepal. Aside from its economic benefits, the highway also made a big impact on the people of Nepal, touching and even changing their lives for their better. The highway also changed the lives of people in some other villagers which have since become municipalities, such as Banepa, Dhulikhel and Panauti which lay along the highway.

Highway passes through beautiful landscapes, such as magnificent rivers and scenic gorges, it has contributed a lot to Nepal's robust tourism industry. In-fact, most of the adventure sports enthusiasts and nature lovers among the foreign tourists usually take the route. The highway was named after the 13th century Nepalese master of Buddhist art and architecture. Araniko or Anige, who hailed from Nepal but had an immense contribution in the Buddhist architecture of China.


Tourists Attractions:
  • Rafting and Kayaking on the Bhole Koshi River.
  • Bungy Jump, Canyoning, Swing and High Ropes at Last Resort.
  • Beautiful Landscape and majestic views of snow-clad peaks.
  • Mountain Biking and Hiking Trails.

Nearby Attraction of Araniko Highway:


 barhabise a tourist attraction in nepal
Barabise: Bahrabise is a village in Sindhupalchok District in the Bagmati Zone of central Nepal. It consists of nine wards. Brabise is a tiny village and business hub of Chinese market near the Tibetan border. Main reason to come here is to stay in one of the two eco-resorts and Partake in the many adrenaline activities that can be done in the area: Bungee Jumping, Canyon, Swinging, White Water Rafting,Canyoning, Mountains Biking, High Ropes, Caving or just plain relaxing.


Tourist Highlights:
  • Surrounding Landscape with beautifully blessed waterfall.
  • Adventure Activities at Last Resorts.


 Sukute is beautiful tourist spot in nepal
Sukute: is located 63 KM northeast of Kathmandu along Araniko Highway on the bank of Bhote Koshi River. Geographically set amidst pristine hamlets & lush green terraced hillsides, the Sukute beach camp is a wonderful destination to while away your time in the early parts of spring or the beginning of autumn into winter. Sunbathing on the beaches of the Bhote Koshi River under bright blue skies is a wonderful experience to behold for a long time. Sukute is an ideal place for adventure activities like Rafting and Kayaking.


Tourist Highlight:
  • Starting adventure activities like Rafting and Kayaking.
  • Naturally blessed Landscape along Bhule Khosi River.


 dolalghat is tourist place in nepal
Dolalghat: Surrounded by mountain chains not only two wild mountain rivers (Indrawathi and Sunkoshi) meet in the valley, but Dolalghat also served as a stopover for pilgrims and monks on their way to the holy sites in the mountains. After 10 KM down from the red clay landscape of Pachkhal, along with beautiful alpine and landscape views of fields. To reach this famous picnic spot it takes three hours drive from Kathmandu. There are lots of fish shops around Dolalghat where you can enjoy local fried fish.


Tourist Highlights:
  • Alpine views, surrounding landscape plus junction of two rivers.
  • Happing place for adventure activities like Rafting and Kayaking.
  • Picnic spot and local fried fish shop.
  • Newari community with rich cultural and traditional.


Palanchowk Bhagawati temple is pilgrimage center in nepalPalanchowk Bhagawati: Palanchowk Bhagwati Temple is situated in Sathighar Bhagawati VDC of Kavre-palanchowk District in Nepal. It is about 55 km north-east of the Kathmandu city and situated at altitude of 1,007 m above sea level. Palanchowk Bhagwati temple is said to have been constructed during the reign of King Mānadeva. The temple houses a 3 feet long beautiful artistic idol of Goddess Bhagawati carved in a black stone and decked with jewelry. This temple is one of the most beautiful and most important Goddess images in Nepal. On the clear weather you are offered exceptional views of crystal clear views of Himalayan range, beautiful landscape of Panchkhal are scenic region of eastern part of Nepal.



Arniko Highway- Nepal




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Wednesday, October 8, 2014

Festivals of Nepal


festivals of nepal
NEPAL is not only the land of mountains, but also the land of festivals. People often say Nepal has more than the number of days in a year. Every Festivals are always a meaningful and memorable event in the life of Nepalese people. Every Festival has some principle to celebrate. From bringing in the rain to honoring the dead or averting calamities every festival has something spiritual aspect about it. Festival is a way of life in Nepal. With the number of Festivals that Nepal has, it is one of the best ways to understand and appreciate the Nepalese society. About more than 50 festivals are celebrated in Nepal every year. While the National Festivals have fixed dates. Religious Festivals follow the Lunar Calendar. The date of Festivals are according to Lunar Calendar. So the date of Festivals varies from year to year. 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 others 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 Kathmandu Valley, while still others are celebrated only within one or two villages or cities.

Major Festivals of Nepal

Sweta (white) Machhendranath Snan in nepal Sweta (white) Machhendranath Snan: Festival is celebrated for about a week in the month of January. During this festival, the Machhendranath is bathed, oiled, perfumed and painted. The Goddess Kumari visits him at his elaborate temple near Asan Tol. If he is pleased by the music and offerings from his devotees, the people of the valley can look forward for the satisfactory rainfall during the season.



 Sweta (white) Machhendranath SnanSwasthani Brata Katha Festival: The Swasthani Brata Katha Festival is a month long festival  is held between the month of January and February, dedicated to God Madhavnarayan and Goddess Swasthani. The month-long festival is devoted to holy bathing, religious fasting, and the study of the Swasthani books. Unmarried women fast during the festival to get a good husband, as married women fast for their families prosperity. The Goddess Swasthani is the ultimate gift grantor, but, if she is insulted, she can make life miserable. By worshiping Swasthani, Parvati attained Lord Shiva as her husband. During the worship or Puja, the Swasthani scripture is read every evening for a month. The worship of Goddess Swasthani brings parted relations together, limitless gifts and remove curses.

 Maghe Sankranti in nepalMaghe Sankranti: Maghe Sankranti is the festival of Sun-God, and is regarded  as the symbol of divinity and wisdom, the festival holds an eternal meaning. Festival is celebrated on the occasion of the sun entering the southern hemisphere. Generally Makar Sankranti falls on 14th January and is called Makar Sankranti or other names in the Indian subcontinent. Maghe Sankranti is also a major harvest festival celebrated in Madhes and Tharuhat of Nepal. Maghe Sankranti is regarded as marking the beginning of an auspicious phase in Nepalese Culture. On this day, the observant Hindus take an early morning ritual baths, notably at auspicious river locations. These include Sankhamul on the Magmati near Patan; in the Gandak/Narayani river basin at Triveni, Devghat near Chitwan Valley and Ridi on the Kaligandaki; and in the Koshi River at Dolalghat on the Sun Koshi, worship the Lord Vishnu and present flowers, incense and food to him. They read the Bhagavad Gita, the holy scripture, rub mustard oil over their bodies, and enjoy feasts of Rice cooked with Lentils, Yams or Taruls, Laddu, Sweets made of Sesame and a Sugarcane Paste.

basant panchami festival in nepalBasanta Panchami: Shree Panchami, Basant Panchami or Saraswati Pooja is one of the most important festival in Nepal. Basant Panchami is the day when winter ends and spring starts. Basanta or spring season is the loveliest time of the year. The Festival of Basant Panchami is celebrated in the month of January- February (Magh-Phagun) to welcome the spring season. Goddess Saraswati is regarded as the Goddess of knowledge. She is worshipped as the source of all intelligence and creativity. Her blessing are the source of innovation and knowledge. She is the creation of art, music, science and all education. It  start learning nree Panchami is the best day to start learning new things. Students worship books, pens, note books and other instruments. Musician worship his/ her instruments. Professionals worship their tools. This is the day when the source of knowledge, art and education are worshiped. On the Basanta Panchami or the fifth day of spring season, the people gather at Kathmandu's Durbar Square and His Majesty, the king and other dignitaries celebrate the season. The band plays the traditional song of spring. In Swayambhunath and the Nil Barahi temple, near Lazimpat, there is a different celebration. On this day, the people worship the goddess Saraswati, the goddess of learning at the temple. Artists, musicians, teachers, and students bring flowers, unbroken rice, and other gifts to please her. Across Kathmandu Valley there are three main temples of Goddess Saraswati. They are Saraswati Temple in Lele, Saraswati Temple in Swyambhu, Nil Saraswati Temple in Gairidhara. Devoteese in Kathmandu Valley visit these temples from early morning to late in the evening during the Saraswati Day.

New Year's Day in NepalNew Year's Day: Nepalese follows their own calendar system known as the Bikram Era or Bikram Sambat. The Bikram Era is the official calendar of Nepal. This solar calendar was started by king Vikramaditya and starts from the first day of the first month of Baisakh. The new year 2057 of the Bikram Era corresponds to 2000-2001 of the Christian Era. The New Year's Day is an official holiday. The first day of the month of Baisakh is observed as the Nepali New Year and falls in the second week of April. It is also known as Navavarsha in Nepali language and is observed as an official holidays. On this day, the devotees visit the Pashupati temple to take a dip in the holy Bagmati river and visit other religious spots. The People go for picnics, have get-togethers and celebrate the day by socializing in various ways. It is a day to seek blessings from family priest and one's elders as well.

Ghode Jatra: Ghode Jatra, meaning Horse Parade is organised in Tundikhel Kathmandu every year. Ghode Jatra is organised on no-moon day of Chaitra Sukla Pakshya of eastern Lunar Calendar. This parade is organised and performed by Nepali Army and police together. This occasion falls about mid March or Early April of English callendar month. A big Horse Parade takes place at Tundikhel. Newars of Kathmandu celebrates Ghode Jatra for several days. On the Ghode Jatra Festival, the horses of the Nepalese army perform the graceful events before the public. According to the legends, this "horse festival" was celebrated after the people of Kathmandu  buried a demon under the soil of Tundikhel showground. They say that he may rise again and cause worry to the world if he is not trampled on by horses each year. So in the spring season, in the month of April, this victory over evil is celebrated in the valley by organizing palanquin processions and grand display of show jumping, motorcycling feats, and gymnastics. The King and Queen, the Living Goddess Kumari, and thousands of people from all over the country take part in the festival.

 Maha Shivaratri  in nepalMaha Shivaratri: During Maha Shivaratri Festival or the great night, the devotees throughout the Indian sub-continent visit the Pashupati temple and worship the Lord Shiva. The Maha Shivratri festival is celebrated in the month of February. The devotees gather here is such a large number that there is no space even for a sesame seed. The saints who emulate the Lord Shiva, rub ashes over their bodies, give lectures to disciples, meditate and practice yoga. The devotees worship the Lord Shiva till the midnight. On this day, the people lit bonfires, share food with neighbors and friends, and enjoy two days and a night of music, song, and dance throughout the Pashupati complex and in the streets.

 losar festival in nepalLosar: This is the New Year of the Tibetans and Sherpas of Nepal which falls in February. The Buddhist monasteries in Kathmandu like Boudhanath and Swayambhunath are decorated with eye catching colorful prayer flags pulling the crowd. The people perform their traditional dances and welcome their New Year with feasts and family gatherings wearing all the new clothes and finest jewelries and exchanging gifts. The Buddhist monks offer prayers for good health and prosperity, and perform dances at the monasteries. The colorful prayer flags are decorated at the streets and rooftops and they seem as brilliant at the Buddha and Swayambhu stupas. In the Buddha stupas, the people celebrate the New Year by throwing tsampa (roasted barley flour) into the air.

 phagu purnima festival in nepalFagu Purnima: Holi or Fagu Purnima is one of the most colorful and playful festivals of Nepal. The Holi Festival is celebrated in the month of March. The chit pole are decorated with colorful flags and erected on the first day of Fagu at Kathmandu's Durbar Square. On this day, a formal announcement is made to all the people to hide their good clothes or you would be splashed with coloured powder and water balloons. On the last day, the youths cover their body with red vermilion powder and roam the streets.

Image result for Buddha Jayanti in nepalBuddha Jayanti: The Buddha Jayanti is observed as the birth of Lord Buddha on the full moon day in the month of May. The Lord Buddha was born in Nepal, and he preached Buddhism, which is the second most popular religion in Nepal. On this day, the people celebrate the Lord's birth, enlightenment, and salvation throughout the valley with celebrations. Before the coming of the festival, the Swayambhunath and Boudhanath Stupas are prepared for the festival several days in advance. The people clean the monasteries, polish the statues and monks prepare for the dance. On the Buddha Jayanti, people reach the stupas before dawn, go around them and give offerings to the various Buddha images.
 
Dipankar lagan wk.jpgGunla Festival: The Gunla festival is celebrated by the Buddhists of the Kathmandu valley in the month of August. This festival is celebrated to welcome the monsoon season. The celebrations of this festival was started about twenty-five centuries ago by the Buddha. It is a time for prayer, fasting, meditation and religious music. The devotees climb past jungles, stone animals, great statues of the Buddha, and begging monkeys to Swayambhu hilltop where daily prayers begin before dawn. Important Buddhist statues, oil lamps, prayer flags and scroll paintings are displayed in the monasteries, and the teachings of Lord Buddha are remembered as the rains nurture the crop of rice, Nepal's most important crop.

 Krishnashtami Festival in nepal Krishnashtami Festival: The festival of Krishnashtami is celebrated in the month of August. This day is celebrated as the birthday of Lord Krishna, one of the incarnations of Lord Vishnu. On this day, an impressive ceremony takes place at the Krishna Temple in Patan and Changu Narayan temple.The Krishna Temple is one of the most important temples in the square which is said to have the most diverse collection of traditional architectural styles found within a square anywhere in the world. This square once served as the seat of the former royal family of Patan and has been designated a world heritage monument zone by UNESCO. Made in the shikhara style of India with red stone, the Krishna Temple was built in 1637 by King Siddhi Narsingh Malla following a dream he had in which he saw Lord Krishna and his lover Radha standing in front of his palace. The very next day, he ordered a temple to built at the very same site. It is three-storied and has 21 golden pinnacles on top. Icons of the gods Krishna, Shiva, and Lokeshwor grace each of the three floors.

 janai purnima festival in nepal Janai Purnima: The Janai Purnima or Raksha Bandhan festival is observed in the month of Shrawan English Month of August. It is called Raksha Bandhan as this festival observes the bond of purity and security. This festival is celebrated by Hindu all over the world. Janai Purnima is Sacred Thread Festival. On this day, Hindu men, especially the Brahmins and Chhetris perform their annual change of Janai and all who celebrates this festival put a sacred thread around their waist. Janai is a cotton string worn across the chest by Hindu male. This thread is only given to males during a long and impressive religious ceremony called Bratabandha. Bratabandha is basically a formal and when the knots are tied the person wearing it is supposed to gain complete control over each of them. This cord id changed if it becomes untidy or dishonored due to those acts which are forbidden by religion. However, Janai must be changed without fail on Raksha Bandhan Day. Raksha Bandhan is a Hindu festival that celebrates the love and duty between brothers and sisters; the festival is also popularly used to celebrate any brother-sister like loving (nonsexual) protective relationship between men and women who are relatives or biologically unrelated

Gai Jatra festival in Nepal
Gai Jatra Festival: The gai or cow is holy to Hindus. She represents Laxmi, the goddess of wealth, and guides the departed souls to the gates of the another world. The Gai Jatra or Cow Festival is celebrated in the month of August. Satire, jokes, fancy costumes, and colorful processions are the part of the festival as the people recall how an eighteenth century king rallied his people to cheer his queen upon the death of their son. Those who have experienced the death of close ones during the past year share their sorrow and comfort so that the gai can safely transport the departed souls on their afterlife journey. The young men wear the women's saris, children dressed up as cows, and whimsical characters of all sorts fill the streets. The special issues of local magazines shower its fun on everyone and everything.

teej festival in nepalTeej Festival: The festival of Teej is celebrated in the month of August. On this day, the women dressed up in their fine red wedding saris visit the Pashupatinath temple of Shiva. The women celebrate the festival by fasting, folk songs, and dances and recall the goddess Parvati's devotion to her husband Shiva. The married women visit their fathers homes and all daughters and sisters receive gifts from their male kin, and an elaborate feast is prepared for them. It is a loud and cheerful celebration until late night, when strict fasting discontinues. On this day women observe a fast and pray to Lord Shiva for the long, healthy and prosperous life of their husbands and their families. The unmarried women also observe this festival with the hope that they will get to marry good husbands. The blessings of Shiva and Parbati ensure that family life will be joyous for all.

Indra Jatra festivals in Nepal
Indra Jatra: The festival of Indra Jatra is named after the Lord Indra, King of Heaven. This festival is celebrated by both the Buddhists and Hindus in the month of September in Nepal. On this day, the people worship the Lord Indra, to be grateful to him, who has blessed the valley. This festival is celebrated for eight days in the Durbar Square in Kathmandu with singing, mask dancing and rejoicing. On the first day, the Indra's dhwaj or flag is erected. It is said that many centuries ago, Indra's mother needed specially scented flowers but could not find them in heaven's gardens. Indra discovered parijat flowers in the Kathmandu Valley and tried to steal them for his mother. He was caught and imprisoned by the people of the valley. When Indra's mother came searching for him the people were punished for what they had done. As a result, they released Indra and dedicated one of the most colorful festivals of Nepal to him to appease his anger. On this day, the masks and statues representing Vishnu, Bhairab, and Shiva are shown to the public, and the Goddess Kumari witnesses the special occasion from her chariot. The chariot of the Living Goddess Kumari is taken through the main streets of Kathmandu. On the first day, the King of Nepal also pays homage to Goddess Kumari. The people gather at the streets of Kathmandu valley to enjoy the festival.

Image result for Dashain -Bijoya Dashami in nepalDashain -Bijaya Dashami: Dashain is the longest and most favourite festival of Nepal. This festival is celebrated in the month of October in Nepal. On this day, everyone stays at the home with their families, offices are closed. The skies are filled with kites and the marketplaces are filled with farmers bringing their buffaloes, goats and chicken to sell. These animals are then sacrificed on the night of Kal Ratri to please the goddess Durga. On the day of Dashami, everyone puts on new clothes and goes to honour their family elders, where they receive large red tikas of vermilion paste on their foreheads. In the following days of Dashain, families and friends unite, take part in the feasts, impart the blessings and exchange the gifts.

Image result for tihar festival nepal 2017Tihar Festival: Tihar also known as Deepawali and Yamapanchak, is a five day long Hindu festival celebrated in Nepal. It is the festival of light, as Diyas ( oil lamp used in India and Nepal, usually made from clay, with a cotton wick dipped in ghee or vegetable oils) are lit inside and outside the houses to make it illuminate at night. It is popularly known as Swanti among the Newars and Deepawali among Madhesis. Tihar is the second biggest Nepalese festival after Dashain. It is considered to be of great importance as it shows reverence to not just the humans and the gods, but also to the animals like crows, cows and dogs that maintain an intimate relationship with humans. People make patterns on the floor of living rooms or courtyards using materials such as colored rice, dry flour, colored sand or flower petals outside of their house, called Rangoli, which is meant to be a sacred welcoming area for the gods and Goddesses of Hinduism mainly Goddess Laxmi. The Festival of Lights is celebrated in the month of November. This festival is a time of candlelight, tinsel decorations and festive colored sweets. This festival is celebrated for five days and on different days, there are offerings and small celebrations for crows, dogs, cows and oxen. On the night of Lakshmi Puja, garlands are hung and lamps are lighted to invite Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth into the home. Maha Puja, the New Year's Day according to the Nepal Era is celebrated as the day of the self, when people give themselves blessings to remain healthy and happy for the rest of the year. On Bhai Tika, the last day, the sisters make offerings to their brothers and the rituals include breaking of walnut, putting on garlands of Makhamali flowers and encircling brothers in rings of mustard oil to protect them from Yama, lord of the Netherworld.
 Source: Nepal Tourism



Wednesday, September 24, 2014

River Rafting In Nepal- But Did You Ever Pause A Moment And Think About World's Best Rafting Tours?



Why Nepal?
  • A paradise for the average recreational Kayakers or Rafter.
  • Finest choice of multi-day trips in the world.
  • Warm water and white Water.
  • Semi-tropical climate.
  • Friendly, welcoming people.
  • Spectacular mountain scenery.
  • World Class White Water.
  • Rich Cultural Heritage.
  • Wild-Life and Jungle.



Nepal boasts some of the best white water in the world. Seventy percent of Nepal’s total land mass is mountains; and Nepal is second to Brazil in water resource. That’s whys Nepal is a haven for water based adventure sports such as rafting, kayaking and canoeing.

Nepal Rafting is one of the best way to explore typical cross section of nature as well as ethno cultural heritage the country. There are many rivers in Nepal which offer brilliant of Canoeing experience, you can glide on calm emerald water with wonderful scenery all about or rush through roaming white rapids in the core of expert river. Nepal has earned the reputation of one of the next destination for white water rafting cursing down rushing rivers of crashing waters and swirling rapids can make up excitement of life time.

River Trip in Nepal is wonderful way to explore and experience Nepal's natural, ethnology and cultural heritage. River have regarded as goddesses and are included in a number of Hindu and Buddhist religious rituals. Many can be witnessed during a raft adventure slopes adjoining the rivers often harbor dense vegetation and interesting wild life. And rafting in Nepal is a great experience in its own right. the thrill of running white water rapids can be as exhilarating as reaching a mountain summit.

Canoeing or Kayaking is one of the water-adventure sports visitors can experience in Nepal. No doubt, Nepal is best destinations for adventure-seekers like Canoeing in whiter water. This thrilling sporty adventure is available in almost all the rivers which flow through national parks, conserved areas and religious spots. Altogether 16 rivers can be chosen to have this wonderfully exciting adventure in Nepal-stay package.

Canoeing in Nepal is best option because rivers in Nepal are valued the best in Asia for adventure sports. Trishuli River is popular canoeing trail with full of adventures and technical rapids. There are other popular rivers like Sunkoshi, Bhote Koshi, Marsyangdi, Kali Gandaki, Karnali and Arun etc are very popular rivers for this adventure sports. This white water sports gives amazing experience who wants to live a life with stunning adventures in. Canoeing in rivers is wonderful adventure which can be enjoyed other adventures like Rafting, Swimming, Fishing, Boating etc. Canoeing in river provides full amusement of natural beauty, exploring the surroundings, ritual performances by the river side etc. The sports is not only adventure but also exploration of Nepalese life along the trail of river flow.

Canoeing can be of various level regarding the skill and interest of the adventurer. Simply canoeing to technically difficult adventures are assisted by expert guides. Canoeing adventure can be done in Bul Bule Khola, Kabindra Khola, Raindo Khola, Sansapu Khola, Ghopte Khola, Chipla Khola, Syange Khola, Jagat Khola, Tal Khola and other rafting routes also are best for adventure seekers. Canoeing is water adventure which provides full time adventure in water.

Canoeing as sport adventure is recently growing popularity in Nepal. The rivers have the necessary features for these sports in water with demanding options to select. The rivers in Nepal which are selected for rafting are best trail for canoeing and so many other water adventures.  Cannoning is an extreme sport geared to the ultimate sport enthusiast. It is an activity that involves abseiling sliding, jumping, swimming and climbing down waterfalls through sleep canyon walls to deep pools.This unique combination of skills gives the intrepid canyoneer the freedom to explore some of the most ruggedly beautiful, yet forbidden places in the world.

Nepal River Rafting


 tamur river rafting  in nepalTemur River Rafting: is one of the most complete adventure trips in Nepal. No expedition to Nepal would be complete without a trek in the Himalayas and its no accident the one of the world's finest rivers starts with one of Nepal's most scenic treks. Temur river rafting is the truly memorable approach on this standard white water descent and great for ambitious Kayakers and Rafters who like the feel the adrenaline flowing.

Sun koshi River Rafting: Sun Koshi River also known as River of gold which might be names after gold found from the gravel of river while panning. Classic SunKoshi River Rafting is one of the top ten river. Journey in the world that's why Rafting or Kayaking in this classic Sun Koshi River is famous among adventurous rafters. Sun Koshi flowing from the Himalaya to eastwards would take you through ever changing scenery which would definitely helps rafters to guarantee that every day on the river is exhilarating different, while passing between the Mahabharat Lekh in between your adventure journeys, forest, small remote villages, white sandy shore, troops of monkeys, and abundance of birdlife. Sun Koshi Rafting/Kayaking is an ideal trip for those wanting to combine peaceful stretches of stunning scenery, some great and challenging rapids and the experience of a lengthy trip.

 karnali river rafting in nepalKarnali River Rafting: The Karnali is the longest river in Nepal, springs from the base of Mt. Kailash in Tibet, the center of the universe for Buddhist and Hindu religions. The Karnali River Rafting is one of the finest big volume river trips in the world, a classic expedition into Nepals remote, wild west. The starting point is Syauli where the river drops into imposing canyons filled with powerful big volume white water. These canyons flow into the scarcely populated areas of pristine jungle teeming with abundant bird and wild life. Towards the end of the Karnali River Rafting, the river gradient begins to ease as the Karnali leaves the mountains and flows into the gangetic plains on the terai. The jungle as the river broadens, and the perfect beaches become bigger and even more beautiful.
Bhote Koshi River Rafting originate in the palteau of tibet
Bhote Koshi River Rafting: The Bhote means Tibet and actually this river originates in the plateau of Tibet. Kathmandu-Lahasa highway follows of Bhote Koshi River. Its a great beginner river for rafters and funs for Kayakers at all levels. Bhote Koshi Rafting is the beautiful for adventure trip with very steep and basically non stop mountains river only 3 hours drives from Kathmandu.


kaligandaki river rafting bexciting destination in nepalKaligandaki River Rafting: Water Rafting in Kaligandaki rivers is an amazing experience. One of the famous rafting river around Himalayan rivers of Nepal. Name after the Goddess (Kali) rises high on the Tibetan Plateau in Mustang and cut of the deepest gorges in the world between Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. A Kaligandaki River Rafting trip first requires drive from Kathmandu to Baglung. A tropical trip could begin at Modibeni, at the confluence of the Kali Gandaki and the Modikhola. This expeditions has everything, exciting, rapids, sandy beaches, waterfalls, wild life and a feeling of remoteness. A beautiful amazing river with good white water. Kali Gandaki, is ideal for people wanting an exciting medium-length raft trip.

  trishuli river rafting flowing from himalaya in nepalTrishuli River Rafting: The Trishuli is the most popular river rafting destination in Nepal is an excellent opportunity to observe the diversity of geography, landscapes, and cultural heritage, floras and fauna and it offers great scenery, exciting rapids and impressive gorges. Trishuli River originates from Gandaki river system and mixes with other rivers like Bheri river, Marsyangdi river and seti river as it flows ahead. It is widely acknowledged for its most culturally stimulating and exciting river trips in the world. During this journey you enjoy thrilling through the most scenic and secluded miles featuring incredibly blue water, breath-taking alpine scenery and amazing rapids cutting through some of most varied geology. You also get to enjoy luxurious camps and wonderful off-river activities. Monsoon river rafting is the major attraction of Trishuli River.




Tuesday, September 23, 2014

Traditional Foods in Nepal

Dal Bath, plat traditionnelle nĂŠpalais
Nepal's Food: Nepal is similar to many countries within South Asia, as it successfully combines a range of characteristics from its neighboring with its own gastronomic history, resulting in foods that are rich with flavor and culture. Recipes from Nepalese cuisine can be relatively simple and the flavors subtle. countries The Food of Nepal is as diverse as the country itself. The food in Nepal differs from the one culture to the another. However, here's a typical sample of food from different cultures in Nepal.

Dal-Bhat and Tarkari- Translated as lentils, Rice, and curried vegetables. It is the main staple diet of most Nepali people.

Nepali Snacks:

Chataamari (Newari): Chatānmari is a kind of rice crepe. Chatamari is crepe made out of rice floor and topped with chopped or ground red meat with seasoning. It is a traditional specialty of the Newars of the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal and is eaten during festivals and other special occasions. Food resembles Pizza or Dosa (South Indian), rice flour flat bread cooked over, heat with tappings such as minced meat (with or without some vegetable ), egg, sugar or no tappings.

Choyla (Newari): grilled/ roasted spicy meat, usually eaten as appetizer with liquor.

Gundruk:  Gundruk is fermented leafy green vegetable and is a popular food in Nepal and claimed to be one of the national dishes. It is popular not only in Nepal but also in the every gorkhali or Nepalese household worldwide. It is served as a side dish with the main meal and is also used as an appetizer and can be made into a soup

Kwati (Newari): This is a wonderful traditional soup from the Himalayas. The common threads are the use of a variety of beans including some lentils and peas, that they be sprouted before cooking, and that it is a curry. There it is called “Hot Beverage of Pulses and Beans”, or Kwati, from Nepal. It is made for a religious festival, soup with many beans, a festival specialty.

Momo (Newari): Momo is a type of dumpling native to Tibet and Nepal. It is similar to Chinese baozi and jiaozi, Mongolian buuz, Japanese gyoza, Afghan mantu, and Korean mandu, a dumplings filled minced meat, usually buffalo in Nepal, Turkey elsewhere served steam or fried, very popular appetizer afternoon snack or evening meals.

Samay Bhaji (Newari): beaten rice with roasted meat, smoked fish, boiled-then-fried egg, black soy-beans and diced ginger, usually ritual food.

Sekawa: grilled meat usually made from mutton, duck, chicken, buff, wild boar.

Sal: doughnut like shaped dessert/snack made from rice-flour.

Sukuti:  Sukuti is the Nepali word for dry meat (jerky). Sukuti is either consumed directly or charbroiled and spiced as an appetizer or snack or mixed with other ingredients and served as side dish such as in sukuti ko achar, which is a side dish, usually with tomato sauce.spicy dried meat roasted over a charcoal fire.

Aloo Tama: potato made with bamboo shoots.

Taw Khoa (Newar) jello of meat soup served cold.

Wo: (Newari) flour patty made of lentils with or without meat/ egg tapping used in ritual or festival or used as snack.

Nepali Main Dish:

Aloo Tama:  Aloo Tama simply means "Potato Bamboo Shoots". This is one of the popular dishes in Nepali / Newari cuisine. In Newari style Bhoj (feast) you will always find this dish. It is a unique and classic Nepali curry flavour dish. Aloo Tama is a classic Nepali soup prepared with black eyed beans, potatoes, bamboo shoots and spices. Tama is a non-fermented bamboo shoot product. Aloo tama is well-loved comfort food cooked almost in every household throughout Nepal. The enduring popularity of this dish is that, it is extremely tasty and very appetizing mainly for its slightly sour and pungent taste.

Dal:  Dal is a dried pulse which has been splitLentil soup usually eaten with rice most popular lentils used as dal in Nepal are black, red and yellow.

Sag: Green vegetables, spinach, mustard greens or broad- leaved mustard. A standard accompaniment to plain rice lunch or dinner.

Masu: meat with spices (curry) and gravy, usually soured rice. Most Nepalese eat children, mutton. Some eat buffalo and pork.

Bhat: Bhat (Nepali) means boiled rice in languages such as Assamese, Nepali, Bengali, Marathi, and Gujarati. Chawal means boiled rice in Hindi. At higher elevations in Nepal where rice does not grow well, other grain such as maize, buckwheat, barley or millet may be substituted in a cooked preparation called dhido or atho in Nepal. Bhat may be supplemented with roti in Nepal (rounds of unleavened bread).

Vegetable Tarkari: Vegetable tarkaris, are a spicy vegetable curry, which is very popular in Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Nepal. Preparation methods for tarkaris range from simple dishes to complex ones any vegetables or group of vegetables in curry,usually both.

Relishes

Achar: Achar also known as South Asian pickles or Indian subcontinent pickles, are made from certain individual varieties of vegetables and fruits that are chopped into small pieces and cooked in edible oils a sour, spicy pickle, can be made in thousands way, the most popular are made of ground tomatoes, sliced radish, ground coriander, boiled or diced potatoes.

Sanya Khuna  Takha and Sanya Khuna are two of the wintertime favourite foods of the Newars of Nepal, especially in Kathmandu. Takha (originally Ta Khwa, meaning 'frozen stuff') is a frozen dish made from buffalo meat (only male buffalo meat is acceptable in a typical Newari kitchen). Sanya Khuna (sanya is 'dried fish'; khuna means 'boiled or cooked') is a frozen fish soup. Both Takha and Sanya Khuna are often prepared and served together, due to the similar preparation methods, hot, spicy, salty jello type food.

Nepali Desserts

Dahi: Yogurt/curd.

Juju Dhau:  One of the popular Newari desserts, Juju Dhau literally means the ‘king of yoghurts’ in Newari language. Dhau (yogurt), known as dahi in Nepali is an important aspect of Nepali culture and daily life.It is also one of the most common and popular item in the Nepali kitchen, usually people do not miss including dahi in their meals or even snacks as most of the Nepalese love to eat dahi-chiura (yogurt and beaten rice). A specialty of people of Bhaktapur, Juju dhau in Nepal is famous as Bhaktapurko Juju dhau meaning Juju dhau of Bhaktapur.

Sikarni: curd mixed with dried fruits

Nepali Drink

Rakshi: Liquor.

Thon (Newari): or chyang (Tibetan) the milky white beer/liquor made from fermented rice.

Togba: a popular liquor in the hills, made by pouring hot water into a pot of fermented millet and drunk with a bamboo straw.

Nepal Climate

Nepal's weather is generally predictable and pleasant. There are four climate seasons:

1 Spring:  March-May
2 Summer:  June-August
3 Autumn:  September-November
4 Winter:  December-February

The monsoon is approximately from the end of June to the middle of September. About 80 percent of the rain falls during that period, so the remainder of the year is dry. Spring and Autumn are the most pleasant seasons; Winter temperature drop to freezing with a high level of snowfall in the mountains. Summer and late Spring temperature range from 28° C (83° F) in the hill region to more than 40° C (104° F) in the Terai. In Winter, average maximum and minimum temperature in the Terai range from a brisk 7° C (45° F) to a mild 23° C (74° F). The central valleys experience a minimum temperature often falling below freezing point and a chilly 12° C (54° F) maximum. The Kathmandu Valley, at a altitude of 1310 m ( 4293 ft), has a mild climate ranging from 19-27° C ( 67-81° F) in Summer, and 2-20° C (36-68° F) in Winter.


Nepal Festivals

Nepal is not only the land of mountains; it is also the land of festivals. There are more than 50 festivals celebrated in Nepal every year. While the national festivals have fixed dates, religious festivals are set by astrologers following the lunar calendar. The rich cultural heritage of Nepal is manifested by the diverse social customs and festivals.
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Friday, July 4, 2014

Nagarkot- Gateways to Mount Everest


Nagarkot Tourist Attractions


NAGARKOT is located at a distance of 32 kilometers east of Kathmandu and 28 Km from International Airport is one of the most scenic spots in Bhaktapur district and is renowned for its spectacular sunrise and sunset views of the Himalayas. Nagarkot is a simple farming town, had a population of 4571 and had 973 houses in it, according to census conducted in 2011. Nagarkot is one of the popular tourist destination from natural scenery, fresh air and stunning mountain views. Panoramic views of Himalayas can be seen from Nagarkot. Nagarkot is great choice for green travellers interested in outdoor activities, scenic walks and culture.

 nagarkot great views on sun set

Nagarkot has become famous as one of the best spots to view Mount Everest as well as other snow-capped peaks of the Himalayan range eastern Nepal. It also offers an excellent view of the Indrawati river valley to the east with an elevation of 2,195 meters, Nagarkot also offers an panoramic view of the valley

Nagarkot, historically, used to serve as the summer retreat for the royal family and many other aristocrats from Kathmandu. While the town offers great views of the mountain, there are few monasteries and temples

Best Time To Visit Nagarkot: The best time to visit Nagarkot is from October to April so that you can have a clear view of the Himalayan peaks. You will be awarded with clear mornings with the most stunning views of Himalayas at sun rise. The monsoon from June to September, it is unlikely to get a view of the mountain.

Things To Do In Nagarkot: The city has plenty to offer visitors in the form of panoramic sights, hiking, nature trails, mountain biking and more. Nagarkot is most beautiful during spring.The stunning sights of the Dhaulagiri range in the west and the Mount Everest in the east are the most popular with tourists. Along the way the historic town of Sankhu is a much frequent tourists spots.


Bhaktapur, Sundarijal and Banepa are excellent hiking destination. While on their hikes, you can also visit the temples of Sankhu, Changu Narayan and Vajra Yogini. Cafe Dumont is a peaceful place, where you can watch the sunset.

For those who wish to spend more than one night in Nagarkot, there are plenty more activities to keep you occupied. Here, you can savour the beauty of majestic mountains under comfort and quite, or if you wish you can do pony-riding, a visit to Tamang village, bird watching, meditation and yoga, hiking or simply stretch out in a terrace with a vodka cocktail.


nagarkot terrace farming

Places To See In Nagarkot: Nagarkot is surrounded by thickly forested hills of pine trees which gives you an idyllic escape. It is a rustic resort high on the northern fringe of the Kathmandu valley. It is an outstanding hilltop that offers great views of Himalayas, breathtaking mountain scenery and most impressive view of sunrise and sunset. From Nagarkot, one see the breathtaking views of the major himalayan peaks of Nepal like Manaslu (8,463m), Ganesh Hill (7,111m), Lantang (7,246m), Dorje Lakpa, Sisa Pa Choyu, Gauri Shanker etc. On a clear crystal day, one can even see tip of Mt. Everest (8848m) from Nagarkot.


Get in: The easiest and cheapest way to get here from Kathmandu is to take a bus at the "Bhaktapur Bus Terminal" located east of Ratna Park to Bhaktapur , 40-50 minutes trip and from there another bus to Nagarkot 1.5 hours, nice trip although buses are very overcrowded.

There is also a tourist bus which goes directly from Kathmandu. Departs Kathmandu at 13.30 from Shorankhutee Tourist Bus Park Narayan Bazaar. And from Nagarkot at 10.15. But please check first if it still operates.

It is best to travel by private-hire cars and taxis to Nagarkot. From the International airport, it should take about 40 mins and from the city centre, about an hour. A scenic drive via the ancient city of Bhaktapur and tiny villages along meandering mountain roads is a journey by itself.

Nagarkot Tourism Overview 
Country Rank - 5 out of 5 places to visit Nepal.
Sub-region    -  Kathmandu Valley.
Ideal Duration - 2.
Best Time - Oct. to March 
Nearest Airport - Nagarkot (Check Flights)





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Thursday, June 19, 2014

Lukla Airport-Nepal LUA: World's Scariest Airport:

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LUKLA AIRPORT- NEPAL: World's Scariest Airport/ Adventure of Mount Everest begins at tiny Nepal Strip


At Everest, it's not just the mountains that takes some guts, writes Plip Byrnes
There is one catch to arriving at the Everest Base Camp Trek start-point in Nepal and that is flying into infamous, perilous situated Lukla Airport.

That is the coolest airport ever. It going to be really, really exciting. Have fun!
Probably the most remote tourist destination in the world, the small town of Lukla, in the Khumbu region of Nepal, is a place that can only be reached by flights from Kathmandu, and other local airports. There is no road going into the town, and travelers to Lukla have to either fly in, or trek in from the nearest town with a road. Flights to Lukla land at the aptly-named Tenzing-Hillary Airport, which sits on the side of a mountain at an elevation of 2,860 meters.

Lukla Airport: Carved out of the side of mountains, the airport was built by Sir Edmund Hillary in 1965. At an altitude of 2,843 meters (9,325 feet) it is one of the most extreme and dangerous airport in the world.In January 2008 the airport was renamed Tenzing- Hillary Airportin in honour of Sir Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay, the first people to reach the summit of Mount Everest and also to make their efforts in the construction of this airport. Landing at Lukla airport in the outskirts of the Nepalese capital of Kathmandu is tricky. Just 1,500ft long and only 60ft wide, the runway ends in a blank mountain wall and has an uphill gradient of 12 per cent, in the town of Lukla, is a small airport in the town of Lukla in Khumbu, Solukhumbu district, Sagarmatha zone eastern Nepal.



Why Lukla Airport is World's Most Dangerous Airport?

 

  • Tenzing Hillary Airport doesn't have a Control Tower, Radar or Navigation.
  • Pilots are forced to rely on the view from their Cockpit to Land and Take-Off.
  • The 460 metre long runway-a tenth of standard length-is also on a slope.
  • If a pilot misjudges landing or take-off, they face a 9,200 ft. fall off a cliff edge.

The landing strip is built on the steep incline of a hillside. Its length is 450 m and width 20 m. and the runway incline is a staggering 12%. The apron has 4 stands and there is one heli-pad located 150 m. below the air traffic control tower. No landing aids are available and Air Traffic Service is limited to AFIS (Aerodrome Flight Information Service) only.

Landing in Lukla leaves no room for error. Pilots throw their propellers into hard reverse before they touch down and gun the engines as they race down the hill for takeoff. Considering the extreme landscape it was the best candidate for the engineers to construct the facility. The strip is at an elevation of 2800 m with a an abrupt drop off down to a river valley below. The approach is through a maze of spectacular mountain peaks and the air is often cluttered with clouds.

There is a big hill right behind the landing strip. You also need to clear a high ridge, bank left, descend steeply, straighten the airplane and land. Navigation is by sight only and you need to negotiate several layers of clouds which can hang on the high hill or rise from the deep valley. This is why flights will often be cancelled and you could be stuck in Lukla waiting for a plane for days on end.
If this is worrying you one comforting thought is that only the most experienced pilots in Nepal are flying to Lukla.

Image result for lukla airport nepalThe airport is quite popular as Lukla is the place where most people start their trek to the Khumbu and Everest Base Camp and now what once was a dirt strip is one of  Nepal's busiest domestic airport. Thousands of mountaineers and trekkers who visit the Everest Region have to fly to the airport if they want to avoid a day long bus trip from Kathmandu. In the peak season the  airlines operate over 50 flights a day far beyond the acceptable capacity for such a facility.

The airport's paved Asphalt Runway (any of several black semisolid substances composed of bitumen and inert mineral matter. They occur naturally in parts of America and as a residue from petroleum distillation: used as a waterproofing material and in paints, dielectrics, and fungicidesis only accessible to helicopters and small, fixed-wing, short-take off and landing aircraft such as the De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter, Derriere Do 228, and Pilates PC-6 Turbo Porter. The runway is one-way for both take off and landing. Aircraft have to land from the southwest and take-off toward the northeast because other end of one side of the runway is mountain. When winds are blowing in an unfavorable direction, all take off and landings have to stop.The runway is 460 by 20 m. ( 1,509 ft) with 12% gradient. The elevation of the airport is 2,800 m. (9,200 ft.)

Aircraft can only use Run-way 06 for Landing and Run-way 24 for Take-Off. There is no prospect of a successful go-around on short final due.

Trip Notes:

Flying into Lukla: Airlines flying into Lukla change annually, but Yeti Air, Tara Air ( a subsidiary of Yeti), Agni Air and Nepal Airlines are staples.

If travelling independently, have a local operators such as Himalayan Encounters can make reservations. They can arrange an experienced porter or guide to meet you at Lukla. Flights start at about $140 one way.

Image result for lukla airport nepalIn trekking season, flights can be booked solid. Try for earliest 6 am flights to avoid weather deterioration mid-morning (and cancelled flights). Be aware Lukla can close for days, but if pilots call it unsafe to fly, its best to go with the flow.

Top Tip: Sit on the left-hand side of the plane towards Lukla for scenic Everest massive views, right side on the return.

The Control TowersManned by two or three Air Traffic Controllers who are in constant Radio Contact with Kathmandu Airport and the Planes. They will decide if conditions are good enough for Plane to leave Kathmandu and land in Lukla

Carved out of the side of a mountains-the Airport was built by Sir Edmund Hillary in 1965 to help the local yak herders known as Sherpas spur development in the improvised area. In picture Flight get ready to take off





Saturday, January 11, 2014

Lumbini-The Birth Place Of The Lord Buddha




Siddhartha Gautama, the Lord Buddha, was born in 623 B.C. in the famous garden of Lumbini, which soon became a place of pilgrimage. Among the pilgrims was the Indian Emperor Ashoka, who erected one of his commemorative pillars there. The site is now being developed as a Buddhist pilgrimage center where the archaeological remains with the birth of the Lord Buddha form a center feature.

Lumbini ( Sanskrit for "THE LOVELY") is a Buddhist Pilgrimage site located at the Nepalese town of Kapilvastu, district Rupandehi, near the Indian border. One of the world's most important spiritual sites is home to the historic birth place of the Buddha.

Lumbini is one of four Buddhist pilgrimage sites based on major events in the life of Gautama Buddha. Interestingly, all of the events occurred under trees.

 The other three sites are in India:

 1. Bodh Gaya (Enlightment).
 2. Sarnath (First Discourse)
 3. Kushinagar (Death)

Lumbini is a Buddhist pilgrimage site in the Repandehi district of Nepal. It is place where Queen Mayadevi gave birth to Sidhartha Gautam. Sidhartha Gautam lived roughly between 623 and 543 B.C. and he founded Buddhism as Gautam Buddha. Lumbini is one of four magnets for pilgrimage that sprang up in place pivotal to the life of the Buddha. It is one of the greatest pilgrimage sites for Buddhist. More than 400,000 Buddhist and non-Buddhist visit Lumbini every year. It is also UNESCO World Heritage Site (culture) and holds immense archaeological and religious importance. Mayavati Temple is one of the important sites in the Lumbini Garden. It is said that here the newly born prince took his first seven steps and gave a peace message to humanity. Lumbini is a small town in the Terai region is situated south of the foothills of the Churia Range. Terai is the granary of Nepal and also the home to Royal Chitwan Park. Lumbini is only a few kilometers across the Indian border in Nepal.

Lumbini is situated at the foothills of the Himalayas in modern Nepal. In the Buddha's time, Lumbini was a beautiful garden full of green and shady Sal Trees (shorea robusta) , The garden and its tranquil environs were owned by both the Shakyas and the clans. King Suddhodana, father of Gautama Buddha, was of the shakya dynasty and belonged to the kshatriya (warrior cast).

In 249 B/C., when the Indian emperor Ashoka visited Lumbini, it was flourishing village. Ashoka constructed four stupas and a stone pillar with a figure of a horse on top.

Major Attractions of Lumbini: The place itself is interesting as a whole, the landscape and the green forestry. However, Maya Devi Temple and the Stupas and the Pillar built by Ashoka are really worth a visit.. Recently, several beautiful shrines have been constructed by devotee from all over the world.

Buddhist Countries A visit to Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, is not only for spiritual enlightenment but also for solace and satisfaction that one gets in such calm and peaceful place. The major attractions of Lumbini are:-


World Peace Pagoda

Image result for world peace pagoda lumbini


World Peace Pagoda: Located outside the main compound, but easily accessible by bike., the impressive gleaming white World Peace Pagoda, one of the world's greatest stupas, was constructed by Japanese Buddhist at a cost of US $1 million. The shining golden statue depicts the Buddha in the posture he assumed when he was born. A walk around the stupa gives you panaromic view of Lumbini.

Things to Know:
Catogary- Historical, Heritage, Pilgrimage.
Language- Nepali, English.
Altitude- 100 M.
Best Time to Visit-April-May is the best time to visit Lumbini
The best season to visit Lumbini is from April-May when birth of Lord Buddha
is celeberated in a grand manner. During this period, Hindus gather here in
Maya Devi Temple, mother of Lord Buddha.
Nearby Airport
Bharatpur Airport- station code- BHR, distance-138.9KM
Simikot Airport- station code- IMK, distance-192.34KM
Pokhra Airport- station code- PKR, distance-197.89KM


The Bodhi Tree or Wisdom Tree

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The Bod-hi Tree or Wisdom Tree: is a set of four distinct Buddhism Meditation. Each meditation is based on an insight that the historical Buddha was said to have experienced as he sat under the Bod-hi Tree more than twenty-four centuries ago. According to Buddhist tradition, the hours before the Buddha's enlightenment were divided into four watches or periods of the night. During each watch, the Buddha experienced a specific set of insights or revelations. During the last watch, as the morning star appeared on the horizon at dawn, then Buddha entered Nirvana. It represents the place of the Buddha's enlightenment, and is therefore sacred geographically. It is ancient. Thus it is sacred temporarily. It represents growth towards liberation. Therefore, it is sacred developmentally. In all these cases, the Buddha- Tree's symbolism gives access to the Dharam Kaya, which is the most transcendent aspect of Buddhism.

The Bodhi-Tree is a symbolic representation of the individual's journey to infinity. As the seed which begins tiny  and hard grows open and free, so should the mind and heart. The tree is rooted in the ground as the self is rooted in matter. But the seed grows beyond the ground, as it perceives its environment, cares about it, and ultimately leaves the limitations of the body and matter behind. The branches reach towards the heavens yet the vines of the banyan reach towards the earth. Such is the state of mankind- always being pulled in two directions. One direction is freedom, ultimate liberation, and the transcendence of boundaries. The other direction is severity, rootedness, comfort, and tradition-the self that will not turn away form the earth.

The Ashoka Pillar
Image result for ashoka pillar in lumbini

The Ashoka Pillar: The Ashokan Pillar, essentially erected by Asoka (249 B.C.) visited Lumbiniand inscribed Asoka Pillar on the spot of Buddha's birth. The inscription of the pillar (the oldest in Nepal) declares the Asoka's granted Lumbini tax free status in honor of Buddha's birth. It is 6 m high and half of its beneath the ground. It is behind the Maya Devi Temple, to the west of the temple.The Ashoka Pillar is being made of pink sandstone. The pillar itself became lost over the centuries and only in 1895 was it rediscovered by a German archaeologist named Feuher besides some ruins which turned out to be the foundations under what is now known as the Mahadeva Temple that depicts the birthplace. In 1896 the pillar was moved by the governor of Palpa, Khadga Shumsher Rana back to its original place beside the temple. The Ashokan Pillar in Lumbini also takes the honor as being the oldest known inscription to be found in Nepal.


Maya Devi Temple
Image result for mayadevi temple lumbini

Maya Devi Temple:Lumbini remains neglected for centuries. In 1895, Feuhrer, a famous German archaeologist, discovered the great pillar, further exploration and excavation of the surrounding area revealed the existence of a brick temple and a sandstones sculpture within the temple itself which represents the scene of Buddha's birth. On the south of the Maya Devi Temple there is the famous sacred bathing pool known as Pushkarni. It is believed that Maya Devi took a bath in this pool before the deliver

Pushkarani Pond
Image result for pushkarini pond lumbini

Pushkarani Pond:The Pushkarani is the sacred pool where the Maya Devi, the Queen of Shakya King Suddhodhana of Kapilvastu the Lord Buddha's mother take a bath before giving birth to the Lord Buddha. It is also the Place where the Gautama was given his ritual purification.

Myanmar Golden Temple
 Image result for myanmar golden temple lumbini

The Myanmar Golden Temple is one of the oldest structures in the compound. There are three prayer halls- the most impressive is tapped by a Concob-shaped shikara (tower), styled after the temples of Bagan. Also within the temple grounds is the Lokamani Pula Pagoda, a huge gilded stupa in the southern Burmese style, inspired by the shwedagon paya in yongon.

Lumbini Museum

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The museum displays artifacts from Mauryan and Kushana periods

The museum posses religious manuscripts, metal sculptures and stamps from all over the world depicting Lumbini. Lumbini International Research Institute ( LIRI ), located opposite the Lumbini museum, provides research facilities for the study of Buddhism and religion in general.

Excursion:

Kapilvastu: A holy destination related deeply with the life of a legend, Lord Buddha, eventually Kapilvastu is the place where Lord Buddha, had lived the childhood and the days of teenage, in complete luxury. The capital of king Shuddhodhan, Kapilvastu still carries with it the mystic charms. It houses many sculptures of Buddhism, which present a landscape before that visitors that makes them feel calm., content. Kapilvastu carries the visitors away to the ancient days when Buddha was a small child, a prince. The place is situated 27 km south of Lumbini.

 Respect:
  • Wear clothing that expresses respect for the sacred nature of the site.
  • Circumnavigate the stupas and other sacred objects in a clock wise direction.
  • Preserve the peace and tranquility.
  • Do not climb onto stupas or other sacred objects.

Access and Accommodation:

Lumbini is a 10 hour drive from Kathmandu and a 45 minutes drive from Bhairahawa. The closest airport is Gautam Buddha Airport at Bhairahawa, with flights to and fro from Kathmandu.

Where to Stay: Some of the hotel in Bhairahwa are quite useful, but it is recommended to stay in the nearby Dae Sun Sukh Gu Sa monastery in the village.