Drenched into unspoiled serenity, Nepal is a paradise for the worshipers of Mother Nature. Travellers often visit here to rejuvenate their mind, body and soul and to conquer some uncharted mountains by partaking in trekking. The country remains on the bucket list of every mountain lover as it is blessed with rugged trails to Everest, the Annapurnas and even beyond. Trek here for days, indulge in canyoning, climb some dangerous mountains, pierce fierce river with kayaking, fly high with paragliding and take an adventurous biking experience in the mountains. Apart from this, Nepal is also known for housing numerous Tibetan Buddhist pilgrims and tiny monasteries signifying the hues of Buddhist cultures sprawling here.
Nepal possesses multi-ethnic and multi-dimensional culture. Whether its music, dance, art & craft, religion, festivals or food – Nepal shows diversity in all its facades. Over 123 languages are spoken in the country, including Nepali, Maithili, Tharu, etc. Two main religions are practiced here namely Hinduism and Buddhism. Thus, the country is dotted with many temples as well as monasteries. Locals here are deeply devoted towards their religion, and their cultures show in their everyday lifestyle, festivals, food and dance forms.
Nepal has some of the most beautiful list of places to visit. Kathmandu, the capital and largest city in Nepal, houses decaying buildings drenched into vibrant cultures. Some of the most popular places to visit here include Durbar Square, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Royal Palace, etc. Bhaktapur, an ancient Newar city of Nepal, is known for the magnificent looking Golden Gate. This visual highlight flaunts finest repoussé metalwork and is dedicated to goddess Taleju with 10-arms and four-heads. The sky-high rooftop of Nyatapola Temple never fails to grab the attention of travellers. This tallest temple in the country has five storeys. Just outside of Kathmandu rests the Bodhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas of Nepal. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a symbol of enlightenment and bestows great serenity. Tranquillity seekers can also visit Pokhara, encircled by some of the highest mountains in the world. This is a paradise for trekkers who flock here to relish its beautiful scenery. Trekking can also be experienced in the Annapurna Region of Nepal. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore the Chitwan National Park housing impressive fauna and flora. Here you can spot rhinos, Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears and gaur apart from over 500 species of birds.
The locals of Nepal are extremely devoted to their festivals and fairs. Every festival here is loaded with flamboyant colours and exciting dance forms. Some of the most popular local festivals of Nepal include Dashain, Khicha Puja or Gai Puja/Sa Paru, Lhosar (Tibetan New Year), Tihar, Mha puja, Buddha Jayanti and Ghode Jatra.
Nepalese cuisine is as simple as the cultures of Nepal. It includes a mix of local ingredients, simple techniques and some influences from its neighbouring countries. Lentils, potatoes, tomatoes, cumin, coriander and chillies are some common ingredients in all Nepalese dishes. Yoghurt is served with most of the dishes. Locals love eating Dal Bhat which is an everyday dish. Momos, Nepal’s version of dumplings, remain a very popular snack item. Also, Thukpa, a hot noodle soup, is served in every household. Those having sweet tooth must try Sel Roti, deep fried rings of sweetened rice flour.
