Nepal Travellers Blogs
Officially the highest country on Earth, lofty Nepal is commonly referred to as the “roof of the world.” That seems like a fitting moniker for this Himalayan nation, where soaring, snow-capped mountains disappear into the clouds like stairways to heaven.
Mount Everest is the star attraction. Tourists come in their droves to climb, hike and admire the world’s tallest peak, which flirts with the stratosphere at 8,848m (29,029ft). But this charming country is much more than just mountains. The birthplace of Gautama Buddha, Nepal is an important pilgrimage site for millions of Buddhists, who come from far and wide to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lumbini, a temple complex where Buddha once lived.
Holy places abound in Nepal, but not just of the Buddhist variety; Hinduism has a strong foothold in the country and there are many Hindu temples scattered across the country (though some have been severely damaged by the 2015 earthquakes).
Also hit hard was the Nepali capital, Kathmandu, which is encircled by soaring mountain ranges. A beautiful, bustling city it stands at a cultural crossroads between India and China, whose influences can be seen in the architecture and tasted in the cuisine. Meanwhile, a Western vibe prevails in the lively Thamel district, which is lined with bars. Kathmandu is a good starting point for travellers venturing into the jungle at Chitwan National Park, which is home to Bengali tigers, crocodiles and one-horned rhinos, plus myriad bird species. Phewa Lake is another draw for tourists, as are the hiking trails in the Himalayas. Wherever you go though, wide smiles will be there to greet you; Nepalese people are amongst the friendliest in the world and it’s not uncommon to be invited into a stranger’s home for tea. Sitting atop the world, Nepal is just one step away from heaven – and for those who have discovered the country’s many charms, it feels like it too.
Where is Nepal ?
Nepal, country of Asia, lying along the southern slopes of the Himalayan mountain ranges. It is a landlocked country located between India to the east, south, and west and the Tibet Autonomous Region of China to the north. Its territory extends roughly 500 miles (800 kilometers) from east to west and 90 to 150 miles from north to south. The capital is Kathmandu.
Geography of Nepal Country Name: Nepal Capital: Kathmandu Location: Southern Asia, between China and India Geographic coordinates: 28 00 N, 84 00 E Map references: Asia Area: Total: 147,181 sq km land: 147,181 sq km water: 4,000 sq km Land boundaries: total: 2,926 km border countries: China 1,236 km, India 1,690 km Coastline: 0 km (landlocked) Maritime claims: none (landlocked)
History of Nepal ?
Nepal's history dates back to the time of the Gopalas and Mahishapalas who are believed to have been the earliest rulers of the valley with their capital at Matatirtha, the south-west corner of Kathmandu Valley. They were ousted by the Kirantis around the 7th or 8th Century B.C. The Kirantis are said to have ruled the valley for many centuries following their victory. Their famous King Yalumber is even mentioned in the ‘Mahabharata’ as he is said to have led his troops to the epic battle. Then around 300 A.D. the Lichhavis arrived from northern India and overthrew the Kirantis. One of the legacies of the Lichhavis is the Changu Narayan Temple near Bhaktapur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Culture), which dates back to the 4th Century. In the early 7th Century, their King Amshuvarma, married off his daughter Bhrikuti to the famous Tibetan King Tsong Tsen Gampo, thus establishing good relations with Tibet. The Lichhavis brought art and architecture to the valley but the golden age of creativity arrived in 1200 A.D after the Mallas conquered them.
During their 550 year rule, the Mallas built remarkable temples and artistically designed palaces with picturesque squares filled with woodcarvings and metal works. It was also during their rule that the valley society and the cities became well organized; spectacular religious festivals were introduced and literature, music, art and drama were encouraged. After the death of King Yaksha Malla, the valley was divided into three kingdoms: Kathmandu (Kantipur), Bhaktapur (Bhadgaon) and Patan (Lalitpur). At the time, Nepal as we know it today was divided into 46 independent principalities. One among these was the kingdom of Gorkha ruled by a Shah king. Much of Kathmandu Valley’s history around this time was recorded by Capuchin friars from Italy who lived in the valley on their way in and out of Tibet. An ambitious Gorkha King named Prithvi Narayan Shah embarked on a conquering mission that led to the defeat of all the kingdoms in the valley including Kirtipur.by 1769. Instead of annexing the newly acquired states to his kingdom of Gorkha, Prithvi Narayan decided to move his capital to Kathmandu, thus establishing the Shah dynasty which ruled unified Nepal from the late 18th century to 2008. The Gorkha state dates back to 1559 when Dravya Shah established his kingdom in a land predominated by Gurung and Magar people. During the 17th and early 18th centuries, the Gorkha kingdom was slowly expanding, conquering some neighbouring states while forging alliances with others. Eventually it was Prithvi Narayan Shah who led his troops to the Kathmandu Valley. After a long struggle, he defeated all the valley kings and established his palace in Kathmandu leaving Gorkha for good. Recognizing the threat of the British Raj in India, he banished European missionaries from the country and for more than a century, Nepal remained closed to the outside world. During the mid-19th Century Jung Bahadur Rana rose to power as Nepal’s first Prime Minister, becoming more powerful than the Shah King he was supposed to serve under. The king became a mere figurehead and Jung Bahadur started a hereditary reign of the Rana Prime Ministers that lasted for 104 years. In 1950, the Ranas were overthrown in an uprising to bring democracy in the country with strong support from the-then monarch of Nepal, King Tribhuvan. Soon after the overthrow of the Ranas, King Tribhuvan was reinstated as the Head of the State. In early 1959, Tribhuvan’s son King Mahendra issued a new constitution, and the first democratic elections for a national assembly were held. The Nepali Congress Party was victorious and their leader, Bishweshwar Prasad Koirala (popularly known as B.P.) formed a government and served as Prime Minister. But this government didn’t last long as King Mahendra decided to dissolve Parliament in 1960, and introduced a one party ‘Panchayat’ rule. The Panchayat system lasted until 1990, when a popular people’s movement led by the political parties that had been banned by the government which until then had been known as ‘His Majesty’s Government’, gave way to democracy. The long struggle paid off when King Birendra accepted constitutional reforms and established a multiparty parliament with himself as the Head of State and an executive Prime Minister under him. In May 1991, Nepal held its first parliamentary elections. In February 1996, the Maoist parties declared a People’s War against monarchy and the elected government. Then on 1st June 2001, a horrific tragedy wiped out the entire royal family of Nepal including King Birendra and Queen Aishwarya along with most of their closest relatives. With only King Birendra’s brother, Gyanendra and his family surviving, he was crowned king. King Gyanendra abided by the elected government’s rule for a short time, but then dismissed the elected Parliament to wield absolute power. In April 2006, another People’s Movement was launched jointly by the democratic parties focusing on Kathmandu, which led to a 19-day curfew imposed by the king. With the movement not cowering down and ignoring even the curfew, King Gyanendra eventually relinquished his power and reinstated Parliament. On 21st November 2006, Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala and Maoist Chairman Prachanda signed the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) 2006, committing to democracy and peace for the progress of the country and people. The king was removed and the decade long Maoist war on the state came to an end. A Constituent Assembly election was held on 10th April 2008. And on 28th May 2008, the newly elected Constituent Assembly declared Nepal a Federal Democratic Republic, abolishing the 240 year-old monarchy. Nepal today has a President as Head of State and a constitutionally elected Prime Minister heading the Government.
How to go in Nepal ?
Access To Nepal
By air Nepal have only one international airport which is Tribhuvan airport (TIA) in Kathmandu and its code is KTM , All over the world you can fly to Nepal either direct flight or Connecting flight From those country you can fly directly : Singapore , Malaysia, Hong Kong, Thailand , Japan , India , Dubai (UAE) Qatar , Oman, Bhutan , Turkey , Bahrain, Bangladesh, Pakistan, China , Korea Rest part of the world you need to Transit The point of entry and exit for tourist:
By Land
How to Get Tourist Visa for Nepal ?
Tribhuvan International Airport is the only international airport of Nepal. Immigration Office, TIA (Tribhuvan International Airport) under Department of Immigration has been facilitating tourists flying to Nepal by providing Visa on Arrival. 'On Arrival' visa procedure is very quick and simple. You can expect some queues during peak Tourist season. If you wish to skip those queues, you can also consider getting Visa from Nepalese Diplomatic Missions stationed abroad prior to your arrival. Choice is yours.
If you have obtained visa from Nepalese Diplomatic Missions, then you must enter Nepal within six months from the visa issued date. Your total stay is counted starting from the day you enter into Nepal. Visas obtained on Arrival at the Entry and Exit points are 'Tourist Visas'. They bear multiple Re entry facility. Tourist Visa 'On Arrival' is the only entry visa to Nepal. If you are visiting Nepal for the purposes other than Tourism (sightseeing, tour, travel, mountaineering, trekking, visiting friends and families), you should still get ' Tourist Visa' to get into the country. However, you must change the category of visa as per your purpose and length of stay in Nepal from Department of Immigration by producing required documents. Nationals of following countries are requested to acquire Visa prior their arrival from their nearby Diplomatic missions (Embassies/consulates) of Nepal Government.
On Arrival Visa Fee at Entry Points 15 Days – 30 USD 30 Days – 50 USD 90 Days – 125 USD
Gratis Visa (Visa for Free) Gratis Visa is issued free of cost in case of following categories of Visa applicants:
Visas of all kinds including ‘Gratis’ issued at the Airport are Tourist Visas. Contact Department of Immigration for extending your visa or changing the category of your visa. Tourist Visa extension can be done from Immigration Office, Pokhara too. Non tourist visa extension can be done only at Department of Immigration (if eligible) for a period of maximum one year (except business visa). For other kinds of Visa please find this link
Transport in Nepal
In Nepal, you can find various means of transportation like from the local bus to private or reserved cabs and taxis. However, this may not be always the same in case of trans-Himalayan as well as Himalayan region as these places are still on the mission to be connected with National Road Network.
The work is going on. Let’s hope for its smooth completion. :) According to your budget and need, you can have few choices in Nepal regarding the vehicles. Some modes of transportation are described below: 1. Local Bus: If you have time so that you can wait for one to two hours than you can use this mode of transportation. Nevertheless, you may have to struggle for comfort. We mean you need to adjust in public vehicles. On the other hand, it is the cheapest and amazing mode to travel, indulge with local which can give you the local authentic vibes. 2. Long Route Bus: These buses are those types of vehicles leaving for different parts of the country from Kathmandu. Both day and night services are available with affording fare. We can get those types of out-of-valley heading vehicles at New Buspark at Gongabu, Kathmandu. Private reservation can be done for more comfortable and smaller vehicles in this route. However, price can be high. 3. Tourist Bus: In comparison to local buses, these buses are more comfortable as well as clean as they are operated by different tours and travel agencies. There is a seat guarantee for everybody on the bus. And when it comes to size these are quite bigger and wider than local buses hence require more wider roads to travel. In addition to this, they have more comfortable seats. 4. Rickshaw: These are suitable for short trip or excursion like 2 or 3 km distance. If are free of backpacks and luggage, you can try this one. 5. Tempo: These are generally operated inside big cities like Kathmandu, Butwal, Pokhara, Biratnagar and best for short distances. 6. Cab: Cabs can be hired mostly in night when other modes are likely to be unavailable. These are a bit expensive, faster and cozy than others. We recommend you guys to bargain if you can. 7. Bikes: You can hire both mountain bikes as well as motorbikes as per your need and comfort in Nepal. If you are interested to explore city, alleys and heritages inside a particular city than bikes can be a good option. While others who wants to hit the road of entire Nepal, they can hire a motorbike especially dual bikes ( both on-road and off-road) are highly recommended. You can deal with different rental services around Kathmandu valley regarding bikes and cars. Payment varies with modes of transportation as well as number of days. 8. Bullock Cart: As implied by the name, Bullock cart is a typical Terai’s (plains) mode of transportation. Two bullocks are employed to pull the load and handled by a normal farmer. One should not miss this ride during his/her Terai stay in Nepal. 9. By Air: Apart from above-mentioned options, traveling via air and enjoying the bird’s eye view of surreal landscape can be a good treat to oneself during Nepal Visit. There are local flights available offered by Budhha and Yeti airways to some parts of Nepal from Kathmandu, Pokhara, Biratnagar etc. This method of traveling can be opted in case of emergencies or sometimes as a luxury and for a new experience. And lastly, there is also the availability of helicopter services. You can charter if you need it. Also, some companies are providing mountain sight-seeing flights packages. Local transportation in Kathmandu: When it comes to local means of transportation in Kathmandu, there are various choices available. We can find all of the above-stated modes except bullocks cart. If you have an offline map or google map, you can easily roam here and most importantly ask more with locals; mainly teenagers. They generally can speak basic English. Important Tip: When you are travelling in Nepal with travel Agency they will provide various types of Transport according to your schedule, group , budget , time
Currency in Nepal
The currency of Nepal is called Nepalese Rupee in English or Nepali Rupee in Nepalese language. It is different from the various other Rupees that are prevalent in the Indian sub-continents such as Indian Rupee, Pakistani Rupee or Sri Lankan Rupee. The Nepalese Rupee has a photo of its Excellency printed on it or minted in case of coins. The smallest unit of a Rupee is called Paise. 1 Paise is equal to 100th part of 1 Rupee. The coins are generally in 5 denominations, 10 Paise, 25 Paise, 50 Paise, 1 Rupee and 2 Rupees.
The currency notes are of various denominations. The smallest denomination is 1 Rupee note. Apart from that, you have 2 Rupees, 5 Rupees, 10 Rupees, 20 Rupees, 25 Rupees, 50 Rupees, 100 Rupees, 500 Rupees and 1000 Rupees currency notes. The Nepalese currency is universally recognized and can be converted in any currency. It is a fully convertible currency. This can be done at money-exchanges. Exchange Rates Fixed by Nepal Rastra Bank There are lots of money-exchange centers in Nepal. This includes both Government affiliated and private operated ones. You can find money-exchanges in every corner of big cities such as Kathmandu and Pokhara. In smaller towns too, there are solitary money exchanges. Try to deal with the government affiliated ones if you don’t know the nuances of money exchanging but if you have done the minutes then it is better to deal with private operators. Of course it is not bad if you save a couple of Dollars.
Today's Rate
Money Exchange and ATM in Nepal
Automated Teller Machines(ATM) in Nepal
Automated Teller Machines are available throughout Nepal. However only Kathmandu and Pokhara have regularly "working" machines that accept international cards. Throughout the rest of the country they exist for National banks but not all International bank cards are accepted. Popular ATMs that accept international credit cards (VISA, MasterCard) in Kathmandu and Pokhara include: Standard Chartered, Everest Bank, Nabil Bank & Himalaya Bank. Cash is given out only in Nepali Rupees. Cirrus and American Express debit cards will need to be checked individually as they each have different relationships with national banks. Ask your own bank who they recommend to use in Nepal before leaving. The best places to try ATMs is around Thamel in Kathmandu and Lakeside in Pokhara where there are "ATM Lounges". There are limits on how much you can withdrawn from an ATM in Nepal per transaction. The limits range from 10,000 rupees to 30,000 rupees depending on the bank. Most ATMs charge a fee for their usage per transaction so do keep that in mind. Are there ATMs available when trekking in Nepal? There are some ATMs in large trekking towns like Namche Bazaar (Everest Base Camp route) and Jomsom (on the Annapurna circuit trek) however they are not reliable. Between, weather issues, telecommunications and actually stocking the ATMs its best to not depend on them at all. Getting your cash in Kathmandu or Pokhara before going trekking is a far simpler, safer and easier option. Since 2015 ATMs in Kathmandu's Thamel area and Pokhara's Lakeside are generally found in groups within one dedicated area called an "ATM Lounge". These usually consist of 4-5 ATM machines from different banks in one room.
Money Changer in Nepal
There are plenty of Money Changers in Nepal's tourist areas and they are known as either "Money Changers" or "Foreign Exchange (FOREX)." All major currencies are accepted. Many medium sized currencies are accepted. And many minor currencies are also accepted though you might have to wait a while. Morning rates are often posted outside of the money changer store fronts every morning. The rates don't vary much at all between stores and usually if you think you are getting a good bargain they'll recalculate as you hand them your money. Ask what the exchange rate is first and if they charge a commission. Avoid hotels or the airports for changing money.
Using Credit Card in Nepal
Credit cards can be used in a few major stores, hotels, restaurants, tour agencies and banks. Do be aware of commissions added. And don't leave your credit card unattended with anyone no matter their excuse. All major Credit cards are accepted in Nepal. These include VISA, Master Card, Cirrus and American Express. Do be aware that not all of these cards will work in some of the ATMs. There are small signs in a few ATMs saying what will work. It's best to stick with the larger international banks than the smaller regional banks for withdrawing cash. When paying for tourist activities, hotels, flights, treks or goods in person by credit card you should be aware of certain things. Chip & pin services are not fully active in Nepal.
Accommodation in Nepal
Nepal offers a wide range of tourist friendly accommodation throughout the country. From high-end five-star hotels to mid-range family friendly hotels to backpacker friendly guest houses.
Most hotels offer a choice: bed and breakfast; bed, breakfast and one other meal; or room and full board. During spring and fall, hotels work at near full capacity and are booked well in advance. Therefore, it is always a good idea to check well in advance and book hotels as per need if traveling to Nepal during the peak season. Moderate as well as high-end accommodations are available all over Kathmandu like Thamel. In some cheaper lodges room rates may not include toilets and showers, unless otherwise indicated. Toilets and showers in such cases are generally communal and heating may require additional charges. These lodges are meant for budget tourists who prefer to see more and compromise on comfort. Accommodation facilities are widely available in the mountainous regions where tourism flourishes. While trekking in remote areas, camping in tents may be the only alternative if accommodation is not available and the route is long way off trekking routes. However, most famous trekking routes have lodges or tea houses to accommodate tourists. But to be on the safer side, we recommend that tourists look up on such information before venturing out on their journey. For accommodation in rural areas, please contact the local home stays.
Food and Water in Nepal
Nepali Food , one of the popular food is Dal-Bhat tarkari , we can find this food all over the Nepal , during the trekking time we can eat Dal Bhat ( it gives us really good Power ) . Beside the Dal bhat in city area restaurant they have a lot of Different restaurant according to your choice ( chinese , continental , italian )
During the trekking we can find some good food beside the Dal bhat ( Noodle m Mo:Mo, Bread , ) The food of Nepal is as diverse as the country itself. The Nepalese recipes are quick to cook and good to eat. Nepalese food is famous for its nutrition level and tempting taste. Whilst Nepalese cuisine is somewhat basic, it certainly does not lack in flavor, making extensive use of spices and flavorings such as ginger, garlic, coriander, pepper, cumin, chilies, cilantro, mustard oil, ghee and occasionally yak butter. Come let us savour some of the famous dishes of Nepal. Eating Habits Main Meal In most part of country, especially rice-growing areas, Dal Bhat (pulses and rice) is the staple food of Nepalese, that is eaten twice a day. Snacking Snacks such as bread, chura (beaten rice), roti (flat bread), curried vegetables, milked tea and other snacks are also generally eaten in between the two big meals. Famous Nepalese Cuisine Gundrook- Dheedo Equally popular among Nepali people and foreign tourists, Gundrook-Dheedo is a sugar-free dish made of wheat, maize and dried green vegetable. The food is high on nutrition level and satisfies the taste buds as well. Alu Tama Aloo Tama (Alu Tama) simply means 'Potato Bamboo Shoots'. It is a unique and classic Nepali curry flavor dish. It is unique in the sense that it is unlike any other Indian or South Asian curry since they rarely use bamboo shoots. Similarly, unlike other East Asian cuisine such as Chinese that uses Bamboo shoots but do not use curry spices. Vegetable Pulao (Fried Nepali Rice) Vegetable Pulao is one of the popular ways rice is served during the parties and events in the Nepalese household. It has flavor of turmeric and cumin to it. The rice is particularly famous among tourists who prefer eating it with curd and Manchurian. Masu Masu is spiced or curried meat (usually chicken, mutton, buffalo or pork) with gravy. Served with rice, it is a main course dish, very popular in Nepal. Vegetable Thukpa (Egg Noodles) This is a seasonal dish. Tibetan Vegetable Thukpa is one of the main food. During Tibetan new year celebration 'Losar'the dish is a part of celebration and tradition for the Nepalese. Chatamari Regarded as Newari pizza, Chatamari is a flat bread made from rice flour with or without toppings (meat, vegetables, eggs, sugar). It is highly savoured by the tourists who consider it as a good and healthy substitute to pizza. Drinks Tongba A special Limbu culture drink, Tongba is homemade wine. Fermented millet seeds are put in a wooden or plastic mug which is filled with hot water. One sips through a bamboo straw as more hot water is added which makes Tongba go down easily with greater impact and taste. Many consume this drink during winter season, and is also a favorite drink among the tourists. Rakshi Rakshi is a millet-based distilled alcoholic drink It is traditionally an important requirement at a lot of religious rituals and social events, perhaps because it is not only an alcoholic drink but also because of its antiseptic qualities. It is a strong drink, and is often brewed at home. Apart from its traditional food the country offers a wide range of Chinese and Japanese fast foods like momos and macaroni. There are many food outlets in the city which provide the traveler with excellent cooking. The food in Nepal is delicious and is available at a very reasonable price to the tourist so that they could fully enjoy the mouth watering traditional recipes of the region.
Drinking water in Nepal
Any surface or tap water in Nepal needs purification before drinking. In the treks specially, drinking water is a scarce commodity. So, you should plan ahead about purification techniques, either using only bottled water or making sure the water you consume is boiled or treated with iodine/chlorine tabs. Stern-pen can be used for clear water.
Phone and Internet in Nepal
Cities will have good internet service but while trekking in the mountains you will have limited to no access to internet.
Mobile network coverage has grown wider now so you can use mobile phone in most of the places in Nepal except a few remote and high altitude locations.
Postal service in Nepal
Postal service is available in major cities. The central post office of Nepal is located at Sundhara of Kathmandu, which operates from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Local people in Nepal
The population of Nepal in 2019 is reportedly 29.7 million. There are about 101 ethnic groups speaking over 92 languages. The distinction in caste and ethnicity is understood better with a view of customary layout of the population. The official language of Nepal is Nepali which is spoken and understood by a majority of the population. The ethnic groups have their own mother tongues. English is taught in schools and many of them are English medium schools so a large portion of the population understands the language. Most private schools today teach in EngIish.
Northern Himalayan People The mountainous regions of Nepal are inhabited by Sherpas, Dolpa-pas, Lopas, Baragaonlis, Manangays. The Sherpas are mainly found in the east, Solu and Khumbu region; the Baragaonlis and Lopas live in the semi-desert areas of Upper and Lower Mustang in the rain-shadow area; the Manangays live in Manang district while the Dolpa-pas live in Dolpa district of west Nepal. Middle Hills and Valley People Several ethnic groups live in the middle hills and valleys. Among them are the Magars, Gurungs, Tamangs, Rais, Limbus, Thamis, Sunuwars, Newars, Thakalis, Chepangs, Brahmins, Chhetris and Thakuris, Damai, Sarki, Kami and Sunar. Ethnic Diversity in the Kathmandu Valley Kathmandu Valley represents a cultural melting pot of the country, where people from varied backgrounds have come together to form a diverse population. The natives of the Kathmandu Valley are the Newars. Although Newars are either Hindus or Buddhists, their culture is vastly different from the rest of the Nepali people. Their rituals, food and festivals are unique to them. Newars of Kathmandu Valley were predominantly traders or farmers by occupation. Tarai People The main ethnic groups in the Tarai are Tharus, Darai, Kumhal, Rajbangsi, Bote, Majhi and other groups. They speak north Indian dialects like Maithili and Bhojpuri. Owing to the fertile plains of the tarai, most inhabitants subsist on agriculture. There are, however, some occupational castes like Majhi (fisherman), Kumhal (potter) and Danuwar (cart driver).
Local Market in Nepal
Join this 2.5 km guided walking tour of the Ason Markets, highlighting the local bazaars where you discover the true heart of Kathmandu. Learn about vegetables, salts, spices, herbs, utensils, traditional clothing. You might even come back with a few bags of items from shopping like a local.
Depart on your walking tour to the Ason market, a stones throw away from the tourist hub of Thamel in Kathmandu.In 2.5 hours, you will get a chance to taste spices and herbs and also shop like a local. You will visit the clothes bazaar, the vegetable market, the spice shops, the herb shops, the utensils market, the traditional Nepali clothing market and the wholesale of Tibetan items.Your guide will give you insight into some of the important aspects of the Nepalese culture, religion or customs. You can get tips, ask questions and discover the true Nepal in the heart of Kathmandu.
Shopping in Nepal
Exquisite handicrafts of brilliant workmanship are sold in the markets .Many of these carry religious significance. Artistic works of stone and metal, silver and gold trinkets, and incredible wood carvings are readily available.
Other kinds of souvenirs include Nepali tea, the famous Gurkha knife or Khukuri, prayer wheels, stone carvings, singing bowls, papier–maché masks, thangkas and pauvas, pashmina, carpets, jewelry etc. Souvenir items are available in tourist areas like Thamel, New Road, Basantapur, Asan, Patan, Bhaktapur and around major hotels. But remember anything older than a 100 years old cannot be taken out of the country. Shopping malls and departmental stores sell branded items and accessories like cell phones, i-pads and laptops to electronic appliances, cameras, music systems, kitchenware, garments, jewelry, perfumes, watches, toys, fitness equipment and a multitude of household items. Popular shopping malls in Kathmandu Valley are: Bhatbhateni chain of stores, Saleways chain of stores, City Center in Kamal Pokhari, Civil Mall in Sundhara, Kathmandu Mall in Sundhara, Labim Mall in Pulchowk, Salesberry in Satdobato. Shopping areas in the valley are around New Road, Putali Sadak, Kumaripati, Bhatbhateni, Lazimpat, Sundhara, Tripureshwor, Lagankhel and Jawalakhel. In Pokhara, the major shopping areas are Lakeside and Mahendrapul Bazaar.
Religion and culture in Nepal
Customs and traditions differ from one part of Nepal to another. The capital city Kathmandu enjoys a rich tapestry of cultures blending to form a national identity. Kathmandu Valley has served as the country’s cultural metropolis since the unification of Nepal in the 18th Century. A prominent factor in a Nepali’s everyday life is religion. Adding color to the lives of Nepalis are festivals the year round which they celebrate with much pomp and ceremony. Food plays an important role in the celebration of these festivals.
Religion Nepal was declared a secular country by the Parliament on 18th May 2006. Religions practiced in Nepal are: Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, Jainism, Sikhism, Bon, ancestor worship and animism. The majority of Nepalis are either Hindus or Buddhists and these two religions have co-existed in harmony through centuries. Buddha is widely worshiped by both Buddhists and Hindus of Nepal. The five Dhyani Buddhas; Vairochana, Akshobhaya, Rathasambhava, Amitabha and Amoghasiddhi represent the five basic elements: earth, fire, water, air and ether. Buddhist philosophy conceives these deities to be the manifestations of Sunya or absolute void. Mahakaala and Bajrayogini are Buddhist deities of the Vajrayan sect worshiped by Hindus as well. Nepali Hindus worship the ancient Vedic gods. Bramha the Creator, Vishnu the Preserver and Shiva the Destroyer as the Supreme Hindu Trinity. People pray to the Shiva Linga or the phallic symbol of Lord Shiva in most Shiva temples. Shakti, the dynamic element in the female counterpart of Shiva, is highly revered and feared and some of the names given to her are: Mahadevi, Mahakali, Bhagabati and Ishwari. Kumari, the Virgin Goddess, also represents Shakti. Other popular deities are Ganesh for luck, Saraswati for knowledge, Lakshmi for wealth and Hanuman for protection. Krishna, believed to be the human incarnation of Lord Vishnu is also worshiped widely. Hindu holy scriptures: Bhagawat Gita, Ramayan and Mahabharat are widely read in Nepal. Vedas, Upanishads and other holy scriptures are read by learned Brahmin Pundits during special occasions. Customs The diversity in Nepal in terms of ethnicity again makes room for various sets of customs. Most of these customs go back to the Hindu, Buddhist or other religious traditions. Among them, the rules of marriage are particularly interesting. Traditional marriages call for deals arranged by parents after the boy or girl come of age. The slaughter of cows is illegal in Nepal. The cow is considered a Universal Mother, symbolizing motherhood, charity, and pity. To respect it is to put into practice the concept of Ahimsa, which in Sanskrit literally means "non-violence", an important component of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. Before entering a temple or a house, you will often be asked to take off your shoes, so as not to pollute the pure interiors with your stained soles. Some temples are forbidden to non-Hindus. The right hand, considered pure, is used to eat, pay, give and receive. If rural Nepal is mostly agrarian, some aspects of the urban life carry the glitz and glamour of the ultra-modern world.. Food: Food habits differ from region to region and much of Nepali food has been influenced by Indian and Tibetan styles of cooking. However the Newar people have their unique cuisine which is vast and nutritious. The Thakalis also have a distinct cuisine although the staples are the same daal and bhat which most Nepali people eat. The regular Nepali meal is daal (lentil soup), bhat (boiled rice) and tarkari (curried vegetables), often accompanied by achar (pickle). Curried meat is very popular, but for many it is saved for special occasions. Momos (steamed or fried dumplings) deserve a mention as one of the most popular snacks among Nepalis. Rotis (flat bread) and dhedo (boiled flour) are also the staple diet in some homes.
Capital city of Nepal "Kathmandu"
Kathmandu is the capital and largest metropolitan city of Nepal. The city is the urban core of the Kathmandu Valley in the Himalayas, which also contains two sister cities namely Patan or Lalitpur, 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) to its southeast and Bhaktapur, 14 kilometres (8.7 mi) to its east. It is also acronymed as 'KTM'.
The city stands at an elevation of approximately 1,400 metres (4,600 ft) in the bowl-shaped valley in central Nepal surrounded by four major mountains, namely: Shivapuri, Phulchowki, Nagarjun and Chandragiri. It is inhabited by 671,846 (2001) people. The Kathmandu valley with its three districts including Kathmandu District accounts for a population density of only 97 per square kilometres whereas Kathmandu metropolitan city has a density of 13,225 per square kilometres. It is by far the largest urban agglomerate in Nepal, accounting for 20% of the urban population in an area of 5,067 hectares (12,520 acres) (50.67 square kilometres (19.56 sq mi)). Kathmandu is not only the capital of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal but also the headquarters of the Central Region (Madhyamanchal) among the five development regions constituted by the 14 administrative zones of Nepal located at the central part of the country. The Central region has three zones namely, Bagmati, Narayani and Janakpur. Kathmandu is located in the Bagmati Zone. Kathmandu, as the gateway to Nepal Tourism, is the nerve centre of the country’s economy. With the most advanced infrastructure among urban areas in Nepal, Kathmandu's economy is tourism centric accounting for 3.8% of the GDP in 1995-96 (had declined since then due to political unrest but has picked up again). The city’s rich history is nearly 2000 years old, as inferred from an inscription in the valley. Its religious affiliations are dominantly Hindu followed by Buddhism. People of other religious beliefs also live in Kathmandu giving it a cosmopolitan culture. Nepali is the common language of the city, though many speak the Nepal Bhasa Newari as it is the center of the Newar people and culture. English is understood by all of the educated population of the city. The literacy rate is 98% in the city. Kathmandu is now the premier cultural and economic hub of Nepal and is considered to have the most advanced infrastructure among urban areas in Nepal. From the point of view of tourism, economy and cultural heritage, the sister cities of Patan(lalitpur) and Bhaktapur are integral to Kathmandu.
Climate and Weather in Nepal
ClimateIn northern Nepal summers are cool and winters are severe, while in the south, summers are very hot while winters are mild to cold. Nepal has five seasons: spring, summer, monsoon, autumn and winter.
In the Tarai (southern Nepal), summer temperatures exceed 40° C and above 45 in some areas, while winter temperatures range from 7°C to 23°C. In mountainous regions, hills and valleys, summers are temperate while winter temperatures can plummet to sub zero. The Kathmandu Valley has a pleasant climate with average summer temperatures of 20°C – 35°C and 2°C – 12°C in winter. Average temperatures in Nepal drop 6°C for every 1,000 m you gain in altitude. The Himalayas act as a barrier to the cold winds blowing from Central Asia in winter, and form the northern boundary for monsoon rains. Some places like Manang and Mustang fall in the rain-shadow behind the mountains and are mostly dry. Eighty percent of all the rain in Nepal is received during the monsoon (June-September). Winter rains are more pronounced in the western hills. The average annual rainfall is 1,600 mm, but it varies by eco-climatic zones, such as 3,345 mm in Pokhara and below 300 mm in Mustang. There is no seasonal constraint on traveling in and through Nepal. Even in December and January, when winter is at its severest, there are compensating bright sun and brilliant views. As with most of the trekking areas in Nepal, the best time to visit are during spring and autumn. Spring is the time for rhododendrons to bloom while the clearest skies are found after the monsoon in October and November. However, Nepal can be visited the whole year round.
Safety and Insurance
for your safety we suggest you buy insurance from yourself for Nepal tour
If you are doing trekking buy insurance which can cover Helicopter and 6000 meters height which is mention trekking route in this height
Best time to visit Nepal
Visiting Nepal in December - February
From late December through to February, Nepal's weather is pleasant during the day but temperatures drop significantly at night time; especially in the mountains. January is the coldest month, but fewer visitors results in quieter sightseeing opportunities. Many hotels and lodges offer fireplaces, blankets and hot water bottles to keep you cosy. Visiting Nepal in March - May March marks the beginning of spring, when temperatures increase and rhododendrons bloom. Days are longer during March and April, making them perfect for trekking, although temperatures are still cool at night. It's a popular time to travel, so plan well in advance. May is one of the warmest months of the year but will bring cloud and showers before the monsoon arrives. Visiting Nepal in June - August The monsoon season occurs from June through to August. Days are warm (up to 30°C), wet and with high humidity. Due to Nepal’s topography, rains often occur at night, resulting in beautiful morning scenery. Although we’d advise against trekking at this time of year, city sightseeing is still possible and quieter than peak periods. Visiting Nepal in September - November As the monsoon dissipates in September, Nepal welcomes beautiful clear skies, fresh air and incredible views. October and November are two of the best months to visit as dry days make trekking easier and offer good visibility. The verdant landscapes following the rains are ideal for photographers.
Popular Places in Nepal
Nepal is a beautiful country, blessed with nature’s choicest attractions. The country also boasts of remarkable historical and cultural attractions like temples and monuments that speak volumes about the rich history and culture of the place. The scenic beauty adds a perfect backdrop to these popular tourist places in Nepal and the climate makes it favorable for the travelers to visit and explore. Though over the years, this country has emerged as a holiday destination, there is still a major part of Nepal that remains untouched by urbanization and the pollution it brings along.
Nepal is known for drawing a lot of tourists from all across the world. There are a variety of reasons why Nepal is preferred by a lot of people. Some of the people who are very much interested in visiting Nepal because of the presence of all the different mountains which they can climb and they can also trek in the Himalayas. A lot of people are attracted to this place because of the presence of spiritual guidance in the famous city of Kathmandu. Nepal is a perfect place for an adrenaline rush and a life-changing experience for a lot of tourists. The itinerary of the traveler is totally dependent on how much the tourist is going to enjoy themselves when they are traveling. Top Tourist Places In Nepal f you want to get close to nature, you must visit Nepal at least once in your lifetime. And when you do so, some of these best tourist places in Nepal are a must visit.
Best things to do in Nepal
Festival in Nepal
About Nepal Festival please find this link for more information
https://bigskytreks.weebly.com/nepali-festival.html
Respect basic Nepali customs
Take off your shoes before entering a Nepali home. Never leave your shoes or sandals upside down.
Nepalese are friendly by nature; you may accept a handshake offered by either a male or a female but never offer your hand first to a woman. Instead, you do a ‘Namaskar’ with folded palms. Nepalese men in general, Hindus in particular, avoid touching women and holy men. Public display of affection is still inappropriate. Visiting a temple: It is customary to take off your shoes before entering a temple/holy places. Walking around the temples or stupas is traditionally done clockwise. Ask for permission before entering a Hindu temple as entrance to some temples, such as the Pashupatinath in Kathmandu, is prohibited for non-Hindus. Avoid smoking inside sacred and public places. Photographs: You can take photographs outside Buddhist stupas and Hindu temples and during festivals, but seek permission while taking photographs inside temples or of religious ceremonies. Many people, especially women, might not be willing to be photographed. So, seek their permission first. Dress: It is always better to be decently clad when going anywhere. Clothes that are not too revealing are advised for women especially when travelling outside the Kathmandu Valley. It is best, if briefs, shorts and bare shoulders and backs are avoided.
What to packing
About Packing things for Nepal trip please find this like ( specially for Trekking in High Himalayas)
https://bigskytreks.weebly.com/trekking-equipment.html
Where is Nepal, History of Nepal, How to go in Nepal, How to Get Tourist Visa for Nepal, Transport in Nepal, Currency in Nepal, Money Exchange and ATM in Nepal, Accommodation in Nepal ,Food and Water in Nepal, Phone and Internet in Nepal, Postal service in Nepal, Local people in Nepal, Local Market in Nepal, Shopping in Nepal, Religion and culture in Nepal ,Capital city of Nepal "Kathmandu", Climate and Weather in Nepal, Safety and Insurance, Best time to visit Nepal, Popular Places in Nepal, Best things to do in Nepal, Festival in Nepal, Respect basic Nepali customs, What to packing
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