Pages

Monday, July 19, 2010

New Tourism Destination

>>Langtang
Langtang in Rasuwa district is known for fascinating valleys, icy lakes and close-up views of mountains. One of the most satisfying short treks available in the Himalayan region, it’s within easy reach from Kathmandu valley. This is the only major trek that takes off from Kathmandu valley itself. The Langtang valley is a land of spectacular alpine scenery and a place of unique culture and traditions. At least a week of trekking is required but trekkers are advised to take more time acclimatization by adding a few days to their itinerary. Buses go up to Syabrubesi from Kathmandu, a 6-8 hour journey depending on road conditions. Kyangjin Gompa is a very popular monastery in this region and was built many centuries ago. Above Kyangjin is the viewpoint of Tsergo Ri which allows superb views of the valley all the way to Ganja La. Langtang Lirung (7,245m) and Dorge Lakpa (6,989m) are the major peaks seen from here. The Gosaikunda lake is an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. On the way are encountered hillsides covered with rhododendron and there are great views of mountains from the lake. The Langtang valley was declared a National Park in1976 and is the second largest in Nepal covering an area of 1,700 sq. km.
>>Dolpa
Dolpa or Dolpo was popularized by the film “Caravan” which showcases the extraordinary untouched beauty of the region. It is remote and fascinating, confined by the Dhaulagiri range in the south and east, the mountains Sisne and Kanjiroba in the west and Tibet towards the north. Lake Phoksundo with its turquoise waters is the major attraction in Dolpa. The people of Dolpa generally settle at altitudes of 3,660m to 4,070 m and these are probably the highest settlements in the world. Closely linked with Tibet, these people speak Tibetan and have strong Mongoloid features. There are 130 gompas in Dolpa which speaks volumes for the religious nature of its inhabitants.
>>Lumbini
Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Buddha and a World Heritage Site. This pilgrimage site in southwest Nepal attracts devout Buddhists from around the world, who arrive to pay homage at the Sacred Garden where the ‘Enlightened One’ was born. A famous landmark is the Ashoka Pillar raised by the great Emperor who converted to Buddhism. Today Lumbini has been enlivened by the multitude of architecturally beautiful temples, stupas and monasteries built by various international Buddhist communities.
Birth place of Lord Buddha
Lumbini is hallowed ground as Shakyamuni Buddha was born here in southern Nepal more than twenty-five hundred years ago. As a sacred birthplace, it is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists from around the globe. Many excavations have taken place here around this small town in the southern Terai plains of Nepal. Ruins of the old city are clearly visible and many artifacts were unearthed during the excavation. Shakyamuni Buddha was born a prince to the ruler of the little principality. Important landmarks are the Maya Devi temple and the Ashoka pillar. The remains of many ancient stupas and monasteries can be found in the surroundings of Lumbini The Ashoka pillar is said to have been erected by the Indian Emperor Ashoka in 250 BC and bears an inscription confirming this as the birth place of the Buddha. A stone image of Maya Devi giving birth to Lord Buddha as she holds onto a branch is seen in the Maya Devi temple. The belief that touching it will render a woman fertile has led to erosion as thousands of hands have stroked it.

0 comments:

Post a Comment