WELCOME TO NEPAL

Nepal is one of the richest countries in the world in terms of bio-diversity due to its unique geographical position and latitudinal variation. The elevation of the country ranges from 60m above sea level to the highest point of earth, Mt. Everest at 8848m, all within a distance of 150 km with climatic conditions ranging from sub-tropical to arctic. This wild variation fosters an incredible variety of ecosystem, the greatest mountan range on earth, thick tropical jungles teeming with of wildlife, thundering rivers, forested hills and frozen valleys.
Namaste and Welcome to Nepal! To many visitors, this Himalayan country conjures up the images of snow-capped mountains and rolling green hills. Indeed, out of ten tallest mountains of the world, eight stand in Nepal, making Nepal a mountaineer’s dream.
Nepal , a small country with an area of approximately 147181 sq kms is diverse geographically as well as ethnically with more than 61 ethnic groups and 70 spoken languages. You will find varied rich cultures and vibrant traditions, exquisite temples and monuments as well as fast flowing rivers and tropical jungles teeming with wildlife, making your trip an unforgettable experience. It is a multicultural, ethnic and multi-lingual country. However, all the people from different races and religions live in harmony and there is an ideal blending of Hinduism and Buddhism.
But Nepal has much more to offer than just the high breathtaking Himalayas. Matching the steps with the world at large, Nepal has made a great leap in attaining the world class milestones in every facet of societal life—be it political, economic, education, information-technology or social welfare.
Nepal is now a secular Federal Democratic Republic abandoning the years long legacy of being the only Hindu Kingdom in the world. The Constituent Assembly election held on 10 April, 2008 marked the beginning of the new era for Nepal in the 21st century world. The democratically elected new government is well poised to bring new and prosperous Nepal eliminating all kinds of social injustice and inequality.
After the political revolution, country now focuses on brining economic revolution that will uplift the country and people herein from the centuries old deprivation and poverty. Nation has supported the mission set by Federation of Nepalese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) to raise the monthly income of each individual up to Rs.12000 per month. Government has also declared to create business environment that is conducive to doing good business in Nepal and that encourage Foreign Direct Investment in immensely potential sectors like infrastructure, hydropower, forestry (Herb Processing), petroleum and mineral resources. Nepal, the country with the second largest water resource in the world, contains opportunities for investing in Hydropower with capacity to produce more than 80000 MW units. As Nepal is already a member of the World Trade Organization, it needs reconstruction of the industrial sector so as to bring out products that can compete in the international market, at the same time making it cheaper.
Following the example of its neighbors India and China, Nepal is attempting to transform itself into an information technology (IT) hub. The Nepalese government and local companies hope to encourage IT business, promote the use of digital technologies and reduce the digital divide between urban and rural areas. The attempt by Mr. Mahabir Pun, Magsaysay Awardee for Community Leadership from Western Nepal near Pokhara, a tourist hub popular for Annapurna trekking circuit, has created a network of several villages using the wireless Wi-Fi technology. Understanding the power of Information, and the new innovations in internet technology and the wireless communication, Pun has changed the lives of many villagers in communities living in isolation all across the spectacular and yet rugged terrains of the Himalayas. It is also important to note that his work on informational technology has become an effective tool to improve health protection and services, increase children's enrollments in schools, spread public health education and awareness, enhance job skill trainings, and promote green micro investments.
In Kathmandu, capital of Nepal, a patient with a blind eye from a corneal scar can have sight-restoring corneal transplantation as easily as in San Francisco — for free if the person is too poor to pay. The corneal tissue is fresh and of high quality, often better than what is available to patients in the United States. Dr Sanduk Ruit was born in a small village not far from the Tibetan border in a family of caravan traders. His father stretched the family funds to send him to primary and secondary school in Darjeeling, a rugged 9-day journey on foot across the high pass at the Indian border. He trained at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Delhi, completed ophthalmology residency, and learned corneal transplantation surgery in Australia and Amsterdam. In 1996, he established the Nepal Eye Bank, which, as in western countries, was set up in a hospital— Tilganga Eye Hospital. Dr. Ruit was awarded with Magsaysay prize for International Peace and Understanding.
In educational sector also, Nepal is slowly growing in prominence in subjects like Medicinal, Management and Engineering Studies. This is the result of the quality education that these various institutions provide, Nepalese students have now marked their presence in world arena. More than dozens students have figured in the top of the lists in Cambridge University’s A level examination. Similarly, students from Tribhuvan University, Department of Engineering, Pulchowk Campus, made the first indigenous aircraft in Nepal.
Nepal is one of the richest countries in the world in terms of biodiversity due to its altitude variation and geographical position. The country lies 60 meters above sea level. The main diverse feature about Nepal is its incredible variety of ecosystem, thick tropical jungles, teaming wildlife, greatest mountain range, forested hills and frozen valleys. Its spectacular geography is one of the richest cultural landscape, which offers an astonishing diversity of sightseeing attractions and adventure opportunities, which are found no where on earth.
All about Nepal’s Geography is that it is divided into three physiographic areas- Terai region, Mountain hill, and Siwalik region. There are five climatic zones that corresponds to the altitude- the tropical zone, cold zone, Arctic zone, temperate zone and subarctic zone. The annual calendar is divided into five seasons- summers, winters, spring, monsoon and autumn. Due to presence of Mount Everest and some other challenging mountains in the world, Nepal is a hot spot of mountaineering. Many travelers with the intention of adventure or climbing visit the place to explore several of its sightseeing.
The ranges of mountains in Nepal are captured by high peaks, gorgeous hills, natural parks, and lakes.
QUICK FACTS
For the ease of tourists, here are some facts about Nepal that has met increased number of tourist form all around the world. These fun facts about Nepal add fun to the life of travelers and provide some sort of knowledge to travelers before they would actually visit the place. Some of such interesting facts about Nepal are discussed below:-

Region: South Asia
Geography: Situated between China in the north and India in the South
Location: Latitude: 2612' to 3027' North Longitude:804' to 8812' East
Capital: Kathmandu
Language: Nepali (official) & 20 other languages divided into numerous dialects. Derived from Sanskrit, Nepali is related to the Indian language, Hindi, and is spoken by about 90 percent of the population in either native or second language fluency. Many Nepalese in government and business also speak English.
Time Zone: 5 hrs 45 min ahead of GMT
Currency: 1 Nepalese Rupee (NR) divided into 100 paise Exchange Rate: 74.5 NR = 1 US Dollar
International Calling Code: 977 + city codes (Kathmandu 1, Pokhara 61)
National Bird: Danphe
Area Total: 140,800 km2
Population: 23,200,000 (2001 census)
Electricity: 220 volts AC, 50Hz.
SPECIAL OF NEPAL
Nepal--occupying only 0.1 percent of the total landmass of the earth – is home to:
• 2% of all the flowering plants in the world
• 8% of the world's population of birds (more than 848 species);
• 4% of mammals on earth
• 11 of the world's 15 families of butterflies (more than 500 species)
• 600 indigenous plant families
• 319 species of exotic orchids.

Nepal's History

The recorded history of Nepal is centered on the Kathmandu valley and begins with the Kirantis who are said to have ruled for many centuries beginning from the 7th or 8th Century B.C. with their famous King Yalumber who is even mentioned in the epic, ‘Mahabharata’. The Gopalas who were herdsmen are believed to have ruled before the Kirantis but little is known about them. Their descendants are said to still live at the edge of the valley. Around 300 A.D. the Lichavis arrived from northern India and overthrew the Kirantis. The descendants of the Kirantis are the Rais and Limbus who predominate in eastern Nepal. One of the legacies of the Lichavis is the fabulous Changu Narayan Temple near Bhaktapur which dates back to the 5th Century. In early 7th Century, Amshuvarman, the first Thakuri king took over the throne from his father-in-law who was a Lichavi. He married off his daughter Bhrikuti to the famous Tibetan King Tsong Tsen Gampo thus establishing good relations with Tibet. Bhrikuti went on to convert the king to Buddhism. The Lichavis brought art and architecture to the valley but the golden age of creativity arrived with the Mallas who came to power around 1200 A.D.
During their 550 year rule, the Mallas built an amazing number of temples and splendid palaces with picturesque squares that are lined with architecturally beautiful temples. It was also during their rule that society and the cities became well organized, religious festivals were introduced and literature, music and art were encouraged. Sadly after the death of Yaksha Malla, the valley was divided into three kingdoms: Kathmandu (Kantipur), Bhaktapur (Bhadgaon) and Patan (Lalitpur). The rivalry among these kingdoms led to the building of grand palaces and the uplifting of the arts and culture. Around this time, the Nepal as we know it today was divided into about 46 independent principalities. One among these was the kingdom of Gorkha with a Shah king in power. Much of Kathmandu valley’s history around this time was recorded by Capuchin friars who lived here on their way in and out of Tibet.
Nepal, as a state, was established when 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 which was an independent state) by 1769. Instead of annexing the newly acquired states to his kingdom of Gorkha, Prithvi Narayan decided to move his capital to Kathmandu establishing the Shah dynasty which ruled unified Nepal from 1769 to 2008 when the last Shah ruler, Gyanendra relinquished his power to make way for total democracy under the rule of a Prime Minister.
The history of the Gorkha state goes back to 1559 when Dravya Shah established a kingdom in an area chiefly inhabited by Magars. At this time the Kathmandu valley was ruled by the Malla kings. During the 17th and early 18th centuries, Gorkha continued a slow expansion, conquering various states while forging alliances with others. Prithvi Narayan dedicated himself at an early age to the conquest of the Kathmandu valley. Recognizing the threat of the British Raj in India, he dismissed European missionaries from the country and for more than a century, Nepal remained in isolation.
During the mid-19th century Jung Bahadur Rana became Nepal's first prime minister to wield absolute power relegating the Shah king to a mere figurehead. He started a hereditary reign of the Ranas that lasted for 104 years during which time the Shah kings had no real power. The Ranas were overthrown in a democracy movement of the early 1950s with support from an unlikely person, the 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, Bisheshwar Prasad Koirala formed a government and served as prime minister. But by 1960, King Mahendra had changed his mind and dissolved Parliament, dismissing the first democratic government.
After many years of struggle when the political parties were banned, they finally mustered enough courage to start a people's movement in 1990. With the public rising up against absolute monarchy and demanding democracy, the then ruler King Birendra accepted constitutional reforms and established a multiparty parliament with himself as head of state and the prime minister heading the government. In May 1991, Nepal held its first parliamentary elections. In February 1996, one of the Communist parties (Maoist wing) went underground to wage a people's war against monarchy and the elected government.
Then on June 1, 2001, a horrific tragedy wiped out the entire royal family along with many of their close relatives. With only King Birendra’s brother, Gyanendra and his family surviving, he was crowned the king. King Gyanendra tolerated the elected government for only a short while and then dismissed Parliament to grab absolute power. In April 2006, strikes and street protests in Kathmandu led to a 19-day curfew and the political parties joined forces with the Maoist rebels to bring pressure on the monarch. Eventually, King Gyanendra realized it was futile holding on to power and relented. He agreed to reinstate parliament. But the political parties and a majority of the general public had had enough of dynastic rule and their abuse of power. On May 28, 2008, a 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 Prime Minister heading the Nepal Government.
The first civilizations in Nepal, which flourished around the 6th century B.C., were confined to the fertile Kathmandu Valley where the present-day capital of the same name is located. Nepali rulers' early patronage of Buddhism largely gave way to Hinduism, reflecting the increased influence of India, around the 12th century. Though the successive dynasties of the Gopalas, the Kiratis, and the Licchavis expanded their rule, it was not until the reign of the Malla kings from 1200–1769 that Nepal assumed the approximate dimensions of the modern state.
The kingdom of Nepal was unified in 1768 by King Prithvi Narayan Shah. Under him and his successors Nepal's borders expanded as far west as Kashmir and as far east as Sikkim (now part of India). A commercial treaty was signed with Britain in 1792 and again in 1816 after more than a year of hostilities with the British East India Company.
Between 1846 and 1951, the country was ruled by the Rana family, which had always held the office of prime minister. In 1951, however, the king took over all power and proclaimed a constitutional monarchy. Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah became king in 1955. After Mahendra died of a heart attack in 1972, Prince Birendra, at 26, succeeded him to the throne.
In 1990, a pro-democracy movement forced King Birendra to lift the ban on political parties. The first free election in three decades provided a victory for the liberal Nepali Congress Party in 1991, although the Communists gave a strong showing. The new government drafted and promulgated a new constitution in November 1990, which enshrined fundamental human rights and established Nepal as a parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarch.
A small but growing Maoist guerrilla movement, seeking to overthrow the constitutional monarchy and install a Communist government, began operating in the countryside in 1996. The year 1996 marked the beginning of a period of instability and conflict. The Maoist insurgency began in three-four mid-western districts but soon spread to almost the entire country.
Following the May 1999 general elections, the Nepali Congress Party once again headed a majority government after winning 113 out of 205 seats. But the pattern of short-lived governments persisted. On June 1, 2001, Crown Prince Dipendra reportedly shot and killed his father King Birendra, his mother Queen Aishwarya, his brother, his sister, his father’s younger brother Prince Dhirendra, and several aunts before turning the gun on himself. After his death two days later, the late King’s surviving brother Gyanendra was proclaimed King
King Gyanendra fired the entire government in Feb. 2005 and assumed direct power citing a steady deterioration of conditions in the country. Many of the country's politicians were placed under house arrest, and severe restriction on civil liberties was placed. In Sept. 2005, the Maoist rebels declared a unilateral cease-fire, which ended in Jan. 2006. In April, massive pro-democracy protests organized by seven opposition parties and supported by the Maoists took place. They rejected King Gyanendra's offer to hand over executive power to a prime minister, saying he failed to address their main demands: the restoration of parliament and a referendum to redraft the constitution. Days later, as pressure mounted and the protests intensified, King Gyanendra agreed to reinstate parliament. The new parliament quickly moved to diminish the king's powers. In May, it voted unanimously to declare Nepal a secular nation and democratic republic country.

Religion

The two major religions practiced in Nepal are Hinduism and Buddhism with a majority of the people being Hindus. The two have co-existed through the ages and many Hindu idols are found within Buddhist shrines. Hindus visit Buddhist shrines and Buddhists visit Hindu temples without a second thought as many worship in both. Some gods and goddesses are shared by Hinduism and Buddhism although they have been given different names. The other religions practiced in Nepal are: Islam, Christianity, Jainism, Sikhism and Bon. Some of the earliest inhabitants like the Kirants practice their own kind of religion based on ancestor worship and the Tharus practice animism. Over the years, Hinduism and Buddhism have been influenced by these practices which have been modified to form a synthesis of newer beliefs.

Nepal was declared a secular country by Parliament on May 18, 2006.

In Nepal, religion permeates every facet of life with festivals, daily rituals, family celebrations and religious observances. At every step one can see temples and shrines, processions and devotional music. Nepal is now a secular nation and is an intricate and beautifully woven tapestry of Hinduism, Buddhism and other faiths living together in tolerance and harmony.
Sites
• Pashupatinath Temple
• Swayambhunath
• Lumbini
• Muktinath
• Gosainkunda
• Devghat
• Manakamana
• Dolakha Bhimsen
• Pathibhara
• Jaleshwar Mahadev
• Swargadwari
• Baglung Kalika

Pashupatinath Temple
Shiva, the destroyer, is historically the god most worshipped in the country. He may be worshipped as the holy ascetic, depicted with his consort Parvati and holding a trident and a small drum or more often in the form of the linga, an elongated stone representing his generative powers. The most important linga is situating in the holy shrine of Pashupatinath to west of Kathmandu. It is the only shrine in the world that shows four faces of lord Shiva. In front of Shiva temples one usually sees a statue of Nandi, the divine bull that serves as Shiva’s vehicle. Another popular form of Shiva in Nepal is the terrifying Bhirav. Different aspects of Bhairav play major roles in many of the Valley’s festivals.
Vishnu, whose primary duty is to ensure the preservation of the world and all living forms, is believed to have visited the earth ten times, each times as a different incarnation or avatar. He is often depicted as a boar, a tortoise, a man-lion and a fish-his four animal incarnations. Throughout South Asia he is most often worshipped in two well-known human forms: Ram the hero of the epic Ramayana and the pastoral god Krishna. In Nepal he is often worshipped in his omnipotent form of Narayan, and some of his most lovely images are seen astride the man-bird Garuda his vehicle.
The archetypal mother or female, goddess is of particular importance in Nepal. She is worshipped in many aspects: as Durga, protector and slayer of the buffalo demon, as Taleju, patron deity of the Valley rulers, and as Kumari, the living virgin goddess. . Other female goddesses include Laxmi, goddess of wealth and Saraswati, goddess of knowladge and arts. Another widely venerated god is elephant-headed Ganesh, the remover of obstacles and the source of good fortune. Other deities such as Red Machhendranath, are special to Nepal alone and are celebrated with unique local festivals.
Swayambhunath
There is a variety of Buddhist practices in Nepal, the Buddhism of the endemic Newar people, perhaps related to the ancient Buddhism that passed out of India one thousand year ago; the Buddhism of the Sherpa, Tamang and Tibetan people and the relatively modern incursion of Theravadin or Southern Buddhism.
The central beliefs and practices date back to the time of its founder, Prince Siddhartha Gautam who was born in Lumbini in the southern Terai in about 534 B.C. Until the age of 29, the young prince led a sheltered life in the palace of his father, completely unaware of the problems and suffering of the world outside his palace wall. One day he convinced his charioteer to take him outside the palace, where he was shocked at the sight of an old man, a sick man, a corpse and an ascetic. The realization of the true misery of the world persuaded the prince to abandon his luxurious life and goes into the forests to seek enlightenment to end human suffering. For many years, Gautam practiced asceticism without success. One night beneath a ‘Pepal’ tree in the forest of Bodh Gaya he became enlightened. Henceforth known as Lord Buddha, the ‘enlightened one’ he traveled around northern India and southern Nepal preaching the Middle Path to enlightenment. At the age of eighty he passed into the final enlightenment.
Lumbini
Lumbini, the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautam. The Shakya prince and the ultimate Buddha, the Enlightened One, is the pilgrimage destination of the world’s millions of people faithful to all schools of Buddhism. UNESCO lists this nativity site, identified by Indian Emperor Ashoka’s commemorative pillar as a World Heritage Site.
The main attraction at Lumbini remains the Sacred Garden, which is spread over 8sq km and possesses all the treasures of the historic area. The Mayadevi temple is the main attraction for pilgrims and archaeologists alike. Here we find a bas relief of Mayadevi, Buddha’s mother giving birth to him. Standing west to the Mayadevi shrine is the oldest monument of Nepal, the Ashoka Pillar. Emperor Ashoka erected the pillar in 249BC to commemorate his pilgrimage to the sacred site. To the south of the pillar, we find the sacred pond, Puskarni, where Queen Mayadevi had taken a bath just before giving birth to Lord Buddha.
There are other places of interest too nearby. It is accessible by air from Kathmandu to Bhairawa. From Kathmandu it takes about eight hours by bus or car.
Muktinath

It is believed that all miseries / sorrows are relieved once you visit this temple (Mukti=Nirvana, Nath=God). The famous temple of Lord Muktinath lies in the district of Mustang and is situated about 18km northeast of Jomsom at an altitude of about 3,749m. The main shrine is a pagoda shaped temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Set into the wall around it are 108 waterspouts from which pour holy water. The temple is situated on a high mountain range and is visited only during fair weather. There are two ways to get to Muktinath from Kathmandu. Either take a direct flight from Kathmandu via Pokhara to Jomsom and hike for a 7-8 hours via Kagbeni or to trek all the way from Pokhara which takes 7-8 days. It is believed that one should visit this temple after competing pilgrimages of four Dhams in India. This temple is held sacred by Hindus as well as Buddhists. The Jwala Mai temple nearby contains a spring and an eternal flame fed by natural gas underground. Jomsom is a major center in the Annapurna region. There is a world-class accommodation facility in Jomsom from where one can enjoy remarkable natural beauty.
Gosainkunda

One of the most famous pilgrimage destinations of Nepal is Gosainkunda lake which is situated at an altitude of about 4300m. The best approach to Gosainkunda is through Dhunche, 132km to the northeast of Kathmandu. Dhunche is linked with Kathmandu by a motorable road. Surrounded by high mountains on the north and the south, the lake is grand and picturesque. There are other nine famous and nice Lakes such as Saraswati, Bhairav, Sourya, Ganesh Kunda etc.
Devghat

Devghat is a popular pilgrimage spot situated at the confluence of the Kali Gandaki and Trisuli rivers. It lies just north of the Chitwan National Park. During the ‘Maghe Sakranti’ festival in January, devotees gather here to take holy dips in the river. There are a number of scared and historical sites around Devghat which provide interesting side trips: like the Triveni temple and Balmiki ashram where the great sage Balmiki had his retreat, the Someswar Kalika temple and fort, Pandavanag where the protagonists of the Mahabharat once lived and the Kabilaspur fort built by the old kings of Palpa.
Manakamana
This temple place at an altitude of 3900 ft. offer very good views of the Ganesh, Manaslu and Annapurna Himalaya group. Every day hundreds make the journey to worship at Manakamana Bhagwati Mandir. During Nag Panchami, in late July or early August, devotees construct an entire shrine out of flowers and foliage. Visiting Manakamana is a very Nepali thing to do, and even if you don't sacrifice a goat you'll feel like you've received an initiation into the Nepali society.
Dolakha Bhimsen
In the upper part of Dolakha Township lies the temple of Bhimeshwar, popularly known as Dolakha Bhimsen. The people of Dolakha regard Bhimeswar as their supreme lord. The roofless temple houses a Shiva Linga, underneath which is a holy pond. Fairs are held at this temple on such occasions as Bala Chaturdashi, Ram Navami, Chaitra Astami and Bhima Ekadashi. During the Dashain festival, goats are sacrificed here.
Approximately 200 meters from the Bhimeshwar temple is the temple of Tripurasundari where devotees assemble during the festivals of Chaitrastami and Dashian. Only the priest of this temple is allowed a glimpse of the image enshrined within.
Pathibhara
Pathibhara situated at the top of Kutidanda and Haaspokhari in Mechi Highway. This secret region attracts tourists seeking spiritual fulfilment and blessings from the powerfull Pathibhara Devi. Hindus as well as the Buddhists reach the temple for celebrations during special occasions. The trek to Pathibhara Devi (3794 m) combined with the natural and cultural experiences of the region make the visit a unique exhilarating experience. From this hill covered with green forest one can have a view of Terain plains, Mahabharat Range and Mount Kanchanjunga. This place with plenty of transportation facilities seems to have abundant feasibility for Gliding. Thousands of people pay homage to the goddess Pathibhara daily.
Jaleshwar Mahadev
This historic temple of Jaleshwar Mahadev lies in the city of Jaleshwar, the headquaters of Janakpur zone. Jaleshwar Mahadev is one of Nepal’s prominent places of pilgrimage and is mentioned in the Hindu epic, Padam Purana. According to legend, a hermit named Jagadish arrived in the lonesome forest of Jaleshwar and had a dream in which he was directed to conduct excavation at the spot. In accordance with the dream, he began digging and soon found an image of Jaleshwar Mahadev. He then built a temple with some gold, which he brought from a place called Sunukhadagarh.
Just in front of Jaleshwar Mahadev temple there are two sacred ponds, called Barunsar and Kshiresar. During the Ram Navami Bivaha Panchami feativals, thousands of pilgrims assemble at these ponds.
Swargadwari
In the western part of the district of Pyuthan (Rapti Zone) lies Swargadwari, a place of Hindu pilgrimage. Swaragadwari lies almost 26 kilometers south of Khalanga Bazar, the district headquarters of Pyuthan. During the festivals of Baisakh Poornima and Kartik Poornima, when pilgrims from different parts of Nepal and India come to pay homage.
Baglung Kalika
Baglung is famous place for pilgrimage as well where the Kalika Bhagawati temple is one of the most religiously significant places which is located just above north side of Kali Gandaki. The temple is located deep inside the dense forest make peaceful surroundings. Every year tens of thousands of pilgrims visit the temple a. For festive lover every year in Chaitra Astami thousands of devotees from all over Nepal gather there to celebrate the festival. Sporting and cultural program are also held at this time in Baglung Bazar. Baglung Kalika is one of the most worshiped goddess and visited temple.

People and Culture

According to the Central Bureau of Statistics, the total population of Nepal was 26,427,99 in 2007. The population comprises people of more than 100 multiple ethnic groups who speak about 93 different languages and dialects which are further divided into different castes. The distinction in caste still plays a significant part in a Nepali’ life when it comes to marriage.
Some of the main ethnic groups are: Gurungs and Magars who live mainly in the western region; Rais, Limbus and Sunwars who live in the eastern middle hills; Sherpas, Manangbas and Lopas who live near the mountains of Everest, Annapurna and Mustang respectively; Newars who live in and around the Kathmandu valley; Tharus, Yadavas, Satar, Rajvanshis and Dhimals who live in the Tarai region; and Brahmins, Chhetris and Thakuris generally spread over all parts of the country.
Nepali is the official language of the state, spoken and understood by almost all the people of Nepal. English is spoken by many in government and business offices. It is the mode of education in most private schools of Kathmandu and some other cities.

ETH. GROUP ___________ POPULATION
Brahman -------------------------2,896,477
Chhetri --------------------------3,593,496
Magar----------------------------1,662,241
Tharu ----------------------------1,533,879
Tamang --------------------------1,282,304
Newar ---------------------------1,245,232
Rai ------------------------------6,35,151
Gurung --------------------------5,43,571
Limbu ---------------------------3,59,379
Thakuri ------------------------3,34,120
Sherpa ------------------------15,462
Thakali ------------------------12,973
Chepang -----------------------52,237
Raute --------------------------658

Nature

Covering an area of 147,181 sq.km, Nepal shares a border with India in the west, south and east and with the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China in the north. Kanchan Kalan in Jhapa district is the lowest point at 70m above sea level and the summit of Mt. Everest at 8,848 m is the highest. From east to west, Nepal is 800 km long and only 230 km. north to south at its widest. Within this narrow stretch of land there is incredible diversity in topography ranging from a sub-tropical climate in the tarai (plains) to Alpine conditions in the Himalayan regions. Mountains, mid hills, valleys, lakes and plains dominate the landscape of this landlocked country. Eight of the fourteen peaks over eight thousand meters lie in Nepal including Everest, the highest in the world.
Nepal also has an abundance of rivers most of which originate in the Himalaya while some flow down from Tibet. They all flow on to India, many of them joining the holy Ganges. High amid the mountains there are glacial lakes and spectacular valleys where few people venture. Recent physiographic data show that around 4.27 million hectares (29 % of total land area) is made up of forests, 1.56 million hectares (10.6%) of scrubland and degraded forest, 1.7 million hectares
(12%) of grassland, 3.0 million hectares (21%) of farmland and 1.0 million hectares (7%) of un-cultivated land.
Climatic conditions within Nepal vary from one place to another in accordance with the geographical features. In the north, summers are cool and winters severe, while in the south summers are sub-tropical and winters mild. The monsoon that brings rain from June through September affects most of the country except those that lie in the rain-shadow areas like Mustang which is within Nepal but a part of the Tibetan plateau. Large tracts of forested land have been preserved as national parks and wildlife reserves where endangered species like the Royal Bengal tiger and the Greater one-horned rhinoceros roam freely along with an amazing variety of mammals and reptiles that include bear, leopards, hyenas, wild boar, wild elephants, monitor lizards, crocodiles, pythons, turtles and various species of insects and birds. Nepal is home to almost 10 percent of the world's bird species among which 500 species are found in the Kathmandu valley alone.
The most abundant natural resource in Nepal is water. Much of the rivers have been harnessed for hydro-power but they also play a crucial role in tourism as most of them are suitable for adventure sports like kayaking and rafting.
The Himalayas are not merely a source of revenue through mountaineering and trekking, they are also mined for quartz, lignite, copper, cobalt and iron ore. The scenic beauty of the countryside attracts hordes of trekkers while there seems to be an ever increasing number of mountaineers attempting to climb the hundreds of peaks that have been opened for climbing.

UNESCO World Heritage Natural Sites
CHITWAN NATIONAL PARK
Nepal's first and most famous national park is situated in the Chitwan Doon or the lowlands of the Inner Terai. Covering an area of 932 sq km. the park includes hilly areas of the Siwalik Range covered by deciduous sal forest. One fifth of the park is made up of the floodplains of the Narayani, Rapti, and the Reu Rivers and is covered by dense tall elephant grass interspersed with riverine forests of silk cotton (kapok), acacia and sisam trees. This ecologically diverse area is the last remaining home in Nepal for more than 300 of the endangered Asian one-horned rhinoceros and harbours one of the largest populations of the elusive and rare Bengal tiger. Besides rhino and tiger, Chitwan also supports a great variety of flora and fauna. There are four species of deer, including the spotted chittal, leopard, sloth bear, wild boar, rhesus monkey, grey langur monkey, wild dog, small wild cats, the white stockinged gaur (the world's largest wild cattle) and many other smaller animals. The swampy areas and numerous oxbow lakes of Chitwan provide a home for marsh crocodiles. In a stretch of the Narayani river is found one of the few remaining populations of the rare and endangered fish-only eating gharial, or Gangetic crocodile. Here also is found one of the world's four species of freshwater dolphins. For the ornithologist and the amateur bird-watcher the park offers excellent possibilities with more than 450 species recorded. Some of the resident specialities are several species of woodpeckers, hornbills, Bengal florican, and red-headed trogons. Winter birds such as waterfowl, Brahminy duck, pintails and bareheaded geese, amongst many other cold weather visitors are drawn by the sanctuary of the park's rivers. In the summer the forest is alive with nesting migrants such as the fabulous paradise flycatcher, the Indian pitta and parakeets.

SAGARMATHA NATIONAL PARK ( Mt. Everest )
Unique among natural heritage sites world-wide is the Sagarmatha National Park, which includes Mt. Everest (8,848 m) and other high peaks such as Lhotse Shar, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, Pumori, Kangtega, Gyachung Kang, Thamserku and Kwangde. Located North-east of Kathmandu, Sagarmatha National Park is 1,148 sq km. in area and consists of the upper catchment areas of the Dudh Koshi, Bhote Koshi and the Imja Khola rivers. Much of the park lies above 3,000m. Sagarmatha is rugged, with deep gorges, glaciers and unnegotiable ice and rock faces. Locally known as the 'Khumbu', it is the home of the famous Sherpa people. The Sherpas make a living by farming barley and potatoes and graze their yaks in high altitude pastures. Young Sherpas have also made their name in mountaineering and the trekking industry has of late become the community's economic mainstay. In 1979 the park was declared a World Heritage Site.
Trees such as rhododendron, birch, blue pine, juniper and silver fir are found up to an altitude of 4,000 meters above which they give way to scrub and alpine plants. In late spring and summer, the hillsides around the villages of Namche Bazaar, Khumjung, Thyangboche and Thame are a riot of colours with several species of rhododendon in bloom. Wildlife most likely to be seen in Sagarmatha are the Himalaya tahr, ghoral, musk deer, pikka (mouse hare) weasel and occasionally jackal. Other rarely seen animals are Himalayan black bear, wolf, lynx and snow leopard. Birds commonly seen are Impeyan pheasant, blood pheasant, snow cock, snow pigeon, red billed and yellow billed chough, Himalayan griffin vulture and lammergeier.

DESTINATION

>>Popular Cities
The capital city, Kathmandu is enriched with temples more than homes and festivals exceeding the number of days in a year. The whole valley with its seven heritage sites has been enlisted in cultural World Heritage Site list. The place, which blends cultural vigor with modern facilities possible on earth is place liked by tourists been here. The place has more to offer and it is not only administrative capital of the country but to the fullest extend capital of traditional culture and physical resources. Three Durbar Squares - Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur, Pashupatinath, Bouddhanath, Swoyambhunath and Changunarayan are the places most revered by the Kathmanduities and whole world.
Kathmandu is not big when one compares it to other cities in South Asia. Kathmandu is a fascinating old city today where pagodas, narrow cobbled lanes, old carved windows, and stone shrines are backdrops to the drama of life that continues unhindered. Here the experiences are amazing, views fascinating, and the climate charming.
There are living Goddesses whose smiles are a benediction. There are reincarnate Lamas who foresee the future with a roll of dice and scriptural reference. There are walks that lead the adventurous to legendary places where ogres once lived. There are hidden gardens behind palaces yet unseen and courtyards where miracles happen, and a city the Buddha visited.
The natural beauty of Pokhara in Midwestern Nepal is simply bewitching. Forming the backdrop are the spectacular Annapurna Mountains with the magnificent fish-tailed Machhapuchhre dominating the scene. Adding to Pokhara's enchantment are the three serene lakes of Phewa, Rupa and Begnas. Lumbini, in the southwest, is the birthplace of Lord Buddha and a World Heritage Site. An inscription on the Ashoka Pillar identifies the Sacred Garden as the place where the Buddha was born. Lumbini has a number of artistic temples and monasteries built through international support.
UNESCO recalls Chitwan as one of the few remaining undisturbed vestiges of the 'Terai' region, which formerly extended over the foothills of India and Nepal at the foot of the Himalayas. The Chitwan National Park has been enlisted in natural World Heritage Site. It has a particularly rich flora and fauna. One of the last populations of single-horned Asiatic rhinoceros lives in the park, which is also one of the last refuges of the Bengal tiger.
Parks and Reserves
Nepal has nine National Parks, three Wildlife Reserves, three Conservation Areas and one Hunting Reserve. About 15,000 square kilometers amounting to almost 18 percent of the total area is protected. This is an amazing commitment to conservation.

Shey-Phoksundo National Park
Kanchenjunga Conservation Area

Sagarmatha National Park
Annapurna Conservation Area

Makalu Barun National Park
Shukla Phant Wildlife Reserve

Chitwan National Park
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve

Langtang National Park
Koshi-Tappu Wildlife Reserve

Shivapuri National Park
Manaslu Conservation Area

Khaptad National Park
Parsa Wildlife Reserve

Rara National Park
Bardia National Park

>>Pilgrimage Sites
Nepal has several ancient pilgrimage sites. Each temple is attached to a legend or belief that glorifies the miraculous powers of its deity. Kathmandu Valley is home to the famous Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhu Stupa and several other famous temples. Hundreds of famous temples are located in and around the Kathmandu Valley. Some well-known pilgramage sites are: Baraha Chhetra, Halesi Mahadev, Janakpur, Pathibhara, Tengboche in East Nepal; Manokamana, Gorkha, Lumbini, Muktinath, Gosainkunda, Tansen, Kathmandu Valley in Central Nepal; and Swargadwari, Khaptad Ashram in West Nepal. Pashupatinath, Swoyambhunath, and Boudhanath are the sites that are also listed in the UNESCO Heritage Sites.
Nepal is also the Gateway to Kailash Mansarovar, the mythical abode of Lord Shiva. Devotees from various parts of Nepal and India throng the temples during special festivals. Even though weak infrastructure renders some places hard to reach, efforts are being made on national level to develop and promote some popular sites.
Pilgrimage sites of Nepal like Muktinath and Gosainkunda make popular trekking destinations. Tours to these sites are encouraged for the novelty they provide in terms of nature and culture.

Pashupatinath, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is the holiest Hindu destination in Nepal.

Swoyambhunath is believed to have been established more than 2,500 years ago.

Janaki Temple dedicated to Janaki (Sita in Ramayana).

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.