Nepal

Sandwiched by towering Himalayas and beautiful Indian plains, Nepal is a central Himalayan country in South Asia. The country houses the most impressive facades of nature which make it stand out on the travel map. Its rocky trails, misty mountains, fluttering prayer flags, long-established monasteries and tranquil ambience make it a perfect place to unwind. Every year thousands of travellers visit Nepal to experience its vibrancy which thrills them. Nepal is also a famous nation among Tibetan Buddhist pilgrims who visit here from rest of the world.

Culture in Nepal Cultures and traditions of Nepal are simple but unique. Here many ethnic, tribal, and social groups stay together which creates a fusion of diverse music, dance and art forts. The country is rich in languages, literature, philosophy and religion. Hinduism and Buddhism remain two major religions in Nepal and Nepali is the official national language.

Cities of Nepal Every city in Nepal has its own distinct culture. Some of the major cities of Nepal include Kathmandu (the capital city of Nepal), Pokhara Lekhnath, Lalitpur, Bharatpur, Biratnagar and Birgunj.

Attractions of Nepal Most of the attractions in Nepal underline the nation’s cultures, traditions and religion. Pay a visit to the very popular Pashupati Nath Temple of Nepal which is the oldest and most visited shrine here. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and belongs to 400 B.C. Peace Temple is also popular among pilgrims due to the tranquility sprawling around this sacred place. Standing on the summit of Ananda Hill, Peace Temple is devoted to worldwide friendship and from here you can enjoy beautiful sunrise and sunset. Also, explore the serene Kopan Monastery, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery where you can meditate and connect with nature. This Monastery is home to over 360 monks, lamas, teachers and workers. Do not forget to add Boudhanath Stupa in your travel itinerary which is one of the largest stupas on the planet defining the richness of Buddhism.

Nepal has a wealth for the devotees of nature. Visit Annapurna, a massif in the Himalayas in north-central Nepal. Annapurna has numerous peaks, including one peak over 8,000 meters high, thirteen peaks over 7,000 meters high, and sixteen of them over 6,000 meters high. Annapurna Circuit greets many veteran trekkers and remains one of the best treks that take you close to nature. Family vacationers can visit the Phewa Lake for a day picnic amidst nature. This, second largest lake in Nepal, is known for its wonderful natural surroundings and calm ambience. Phewa Lake also has a temple called Barahi Mandir dedicated to Lord Vishnu, one of the Hindu gods.? ?Travellers can also enjoy nature walks at the very stunning Garden of Dreams. Also known with the name of the Garden of Six Seasons, this neo-classical garden is located in Kaiser Mahal Kathmandu. Visiting Garden of Dreams is a dream of every nature aficionado who loves exploring the most outstanding vistas of flora.

Festivals of Nepal Nepal is a culturally rich country with too many festivals. The wealth of cultures and traditions here can be clearly seen in its festivals. Lhosar, ‘New year’, holds great significance among Buddhist communities of Nepal. Its festivities include feasting, dancing and grand family gatherings. Mahashivaratri also drenches Nepal in vivid colours when all the temples are decorated with lamps and pilgrims offer flowers, mango leaves and peepal leaves to god. Buddha Jayanti, marking the birth of Lord Buddha, also holds great significance among locals. Thousands of Buddhist pilgrims gather at the Buddha’s birth place Lumbini on this auspicious event. ??

Festivities of Dashain Festival are also worth experiencing to know about the fervour of locals towards their traditions. This festival is celebrated for 15 days and stands for the victory of good over evil. Other known festivals of Nepal include Teej, Tihar, Janai Purnima, etc.

Food of Nepal Nepalese cuisine shows the cultural diversity and geography of Nepal. Dal-bhat-tarkari is commonly prepared in all local households, which include lentils and different vegetables. Momo is the most popular dish with a filling of chicken, pork or vegetables. Also try Chatamari, a Newari food item prepared with rice flour bread and appetizing toppings. For enjoying some authentic local flavours, Aloo Tama is a must. This unique curry is made with potato and Bamboo Shoots. It is very popular in Newari community.

Shopping in Nepal Shopping in Nepal is all about indulging in locally made souvenirs. Thangka Paintings made on cotton or silk appliqu? remain popular among both locals and travellers. Singing Bowls also make amazing souvenirs. They create a soothing sound on being rubbed in a circular motion by a small wooden stick.?

Handmade rice paper items like journals, diaries, calendars and even lamp shades are sold here in abundance. Many travellers buy Khukuri, a local knife of Nepal. Locals here perform mask dances wearing dramatic looking masks. These masks look beautiful and are bought by many vacationers as mementos. ?

Best time to Visit Nepal The best time to visit Nepal is from late September to late November when the weather remains clear and mostly dry. December and January months are chilly and can be difficult for trekking. Spring season, from February to mid-April, is also pleasant in Nepal.

How to Reach Nepal Nepal's Tribhuvan International Airport is the main airport of the country. The airport serves flights connecting to India, Bangkok, Doha, Dubai, Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur. Bus service is also available here with five border crossings open to tourists.