Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Nepal is a paradise for the birdwatcher with a vast array of exceptionally rich bird life of over 864 species recorded, which are home to over 8% of the World’s total bird population. From the lowland jungle of the Terrai and the Kosi Tappu barrage through dense rhododendron and Oak forest of the middle hills to the windswept plateaus of the high Himalaya there is always something to keep one twitching.
The various national parks like Chitwan and Bardia harbor a wide variety of birds. But Koshi Tappu has better sightings of an incredible variety of both resident and migratory birds that come from as far away as Siberia. Nepal’s national bird is the Daphe or the Impeyen Pheasant which is found in the Himalayan region.
Birds of the Kathmandu Valley: Within the Kathmandu valley alone, over 500 species of birds have been recorded. The surrounding hills offer a varied ecology ranging from primary and secondary forests to rhododendron, oak and pine forests. In addition, the wetlands and open fields inside the valley make up a diverse habitat for many species of birds. The most popular bird watching spot is the Phulchoki hill, the highest peak on the Valley rim situated 20 km South East of Kathmandu, with some 265 species recorded to date. The birds have seen here including babblers, warblers, tits, thrushes, Minivets, woodpeckers, eagles and many migrant birds. Godavari, at the foot of Phulchoki hill where the Royal Botanical Garden is situated, records over 100 species of birds including the lesser racket-tailed drongo, Tibetan siskin and the spotted fork tail.
The Shivapuri Watershed and Wildlife Reserve Situated to the North of Kathmandu, is another important location. Nagerjun Royal Forest on Jamacho hill is situated 5 km to the northwest of Kathmandu on the way to Kakani from Balaju, is a renowned sight for bird enthusiasts with blue magpies, kalij pheasants, Bonelli's eagles, great Himalayan barbets amongst the many species found here.
The wetlands in the valley, the banks of the Manohara River on the way to Bhaktapur, and the Bagmati River, which flows into the Valley from Shivapuri hill and out through Chobhar Gorge, are good places for watching waders and waterfowls. Harboring 40 species of birds mostly dependent on wetlands, Taudaha, a lake on the way to Dakshinkali, attracts flocks of migrant birds.
Popular Bird Watching Sites outside the Kathmandu Valley:
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve: As well as other kinds of fauna, the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is renowned for being one of the best locations for birding. Still within Nepal’s sub-tropical Terai belt, this is the smallest (175 sq km) and easternmost reserve in Nepal, just to the North East of the convergence of the Sapta Koshi and Trijuga Khola rivers. Its situation on the Sapta Koshi floodplain means that the environment of this reserve varies dramatically according to the seasons. During the Monsoon (May to September) the flow becomes torrential and covers most of the floodplain, while during the dry seasons, many flat, sandy islands are exposed. The habitat is a combination of scrub grassland and deciduous riverside forest, with over 280 species of birds recorded so far, including 20 species of duck, ibises, storks, swamp partridges (Francolinus gularis), herons, egrets, Bengal floricans (Eupodotis Bengalensis), and many other exotic and migratory waterfowl not found elsewhere in Nepal.
Chitwan National Park: Chitwan National Park is approximately five hours drive by road from Kathmandu or a 35 minute flight situated in the central Terai region. It is renowned for its array of birds, with over 255 species recorded, including many species of parakeets as well as Blue-Throat (thrush), Long-tailed Nightjar, Indian Peafowl, Great Barbet, red-billed blue magpie and Tick ell's red-breasted blue flycatcher. A two night/three day package, staying at a lodge in Sauraha, is an ideal way to combine bird watching with other pursuits.
Bardia National park: Bardia is also a popular destination for bird watching situated in the far West of Nepal it is an area of extensive jungle which is covered by sal forest riverine and grass lands. A boat ride on the slow moving expanse of the Karnali River provides plenty of opportunities to view a vast variety of birds including Ruddy Shelduck, darters, brahmini kites, brown headed gulls, cormorants, oriental pied hornbills, night heron & purple heron, cinnaon bitterns, orioles and majestic peacocks.
Some Itineraries for Bird watching Tours Itinerary 1:
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon arrival at the airport, welcome by our representative and transfer to the Hotel. At the hotel briefing about the program by our representative
Day 02: Sightseeing
Kathmandu city, Swoyambhunath, Patan city
Day 03: Kathmandu sightseeing
Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Bhaktapur.
Day 04: Drive to Phulchowki
Phulchowki is situated about 15km Southeast of KTM; this mountain is 2759m high. It is a good spot for hiking. Rhododendron of different varieties and colors from pure white to dark red are found here. This is also the most popular bird watching spot in the valley. 265 species of birds are recorded here. The birds seen here include flycatchers, yuhinas, sunbirds, flowerpeckers, rosefinches, babbkers, warblers, tits, thrushes, minivets, woodpeckers, eagles and many migrant birds. Godavari, at the foot of Phulchowki hill where Royal Botanical Garden is situated, records over 100 species of birds including lesser Rackettailed drongo, Tibetan siskin and the spotted forktail.
Day 05: Flight to Biratnagar. Drive to Koshi Tappu
Koshi Tappu is easily accessible from Biratnagar after an hour and half drive. Biratnagar is well connected by road (519 km) and several flights with Kathmandu. Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve lies on the flood plains of the Sapta Koshi in Saptari and Sunsari districts of Eastern Nepal. The Reserve covers 175sq.km and established in 1976. The vegetation is mainly tall Khar-pater grassland with a few patches of Khairsissoo, scrub forest and deciduous mixed riverside forest. The Reserve offers important habitat for a variety of wildlife. The last surviving populations (about 100 individuals) of Wild Buffalos are found here. Other mammals occurring here are hog deer, wild boar, spotted deer and blue bull. A total of 423 species of birds are recorded here, including 20 of ducks, two of ibises, many storks, egrets, herons and the endangered swamp partridges and Bengal Floricans. 183 species of different birds are recorded a day here. Visitors can encounter minimum 100 types of birds in a day.
Day 06: Koshi Tappu
A full day Bird activity on foot and in boat, Koshi Tappu is one of the Asia’s finest wetlands and fabulous bird watching area. Almost all of Nepal’s long list of wildfowl, waders, storks, ibises, herons, egrets, tems and gulls occur here plus a great variety of land-birds that include such specialties as Swamp Francolin, Red-necked Falcon and Straited Marsh Wabler.
Day 07: Koshi Tappu to Chitwan National Park.
Drive to Chitwan for 9-10 hrs through the beautiful landscapes. There are ample chances to see White-rumped need tail Swifts and Ibis bills en-route. Upon arrival in Lodge, welcome and get information by the naturalist. Chitwan National Park is the most famous national park in Nepal. Offering 450 species of birds including four species of deer, leopard, sloth bear, wild boar and other wildlife. This park is well known for one horned Rhinoceros and it is a shelter for few Royal Bengal Tigers. Beside this Chitwan also supports a great variety of flora and fauna.
Day 08: Chitwan
After tea or coffee, go for a bird watching tour. Jungle Safari excursion by jeep or bicycle to the 'Twenty Thousand Lakes' or Wildlife Walk in the dense jungle of the Chitwan National Park, elephant ride, canon ride, village visit. In the evening enjoy a cultural dance performed by local villagers.Day 09: Chitawan
Full day jungle activities like jungle walk, canon ride, bird watching, nature walk etc.
Day10: Chitawan – Bardia National Park
Drive to the Bardia National Park, Bardia National Park is the largest lowland sanctuary and most undisturbed wilderness area in western Terai of Nepal. Thickly covered with the trees and carpeted with grass and savannah, the park has the second largest tiger population after Chitwan National Park. Other wild animal roams here are the one horned rhino, wild elephant, swamp deer, black buck antelope, crocodile and Gangetic Dolphin etc. Endangered birds include the Bengal florican, lesser florican, silver-eared mesia and Sarus crane.
Day 11: Bardia
Jungle activities: elephant-back safari, nature walks, jungle drive, bird watching, trekking in the Churia Hills to observe more birds, overnight in the tented camp.
Day 12: Bardia
Jungle activities: Cultural visits to Tharu village, Gangetic Dolphin viewing, rafting in the Karnali River. In the evening enjoy the Tharu (ethnic tribe) Cultural performance.
Day 13: Bardia-Nepalgunj/flight to Kathmandu
Drive to Nepalgunj about 2hrs then fly to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to hotel.
Day 14: Free day in Kathmandu for shopping etc
Day 15: Departure to onward destination.
Itinerary 2 :
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon arrival at the airport, welcome by our representative and transfer to the Hotel. At the hotel briefing by our representative
Day 02: Sightseeing
Sightseeing in Kathmandu city, Swoyambhunath (Monkey Temple), Patan city
Day 03: Drive to Phulchowki
Phulchowki is situated about 15km Southeast of KTM; this mountain is 2759m high. It is a good spot for hiking. Rhododendron of different varieties and colors from pure white to dark red are found here. This is also the most popular bird watching spot in the valley. 265 species of birds are recorded here. The birds seen here include flycatchers, yuhinas, sunbirds, flowerpeckers, rosefinches, babbkers, warblers, tits, thrushes, minivets, woodpeckers, eagles and many migrant birds. Godavari, at the foot of Phulchowki hill where Royal Botanical Garden is situated, records over 100 species of birds including lesser Rackettailed drongo, Tibetan siskin and the spotted forktail.
Day 04: Flight to Biratnagar, Drive to Koshi Tappu
Koshi Tappu is easily accessible from Biratnagar after an hour and half drive. Biratnagar is well connected by road (519 km) and several flights with Kathmandu. Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve lies on the flood plains of the Sapta Koshi in Saptari and Sunsari districts of Eastern Nepal. The Reserve covers 175sq.km and established in 1976. The vegetation is mainly tall Khar-pater grassland with a few patches of Khairsissoo, scrub forest and deciduous mixed riverside forest. The Reserve offers important habitat for a variety of wildlife. The last surviving populations (about 100 individuals) of Wild Buffalos are found here. Other mammals occurring here are hog deer, wild boar, spotted deer and blue bull. A total of 423 species of birds are recorded here, including 20 of ducks, two of ibises, many storks, egrets, herons and the endangered swamp partridges and Bengal Floricans. 183 species of different birds are recorded a day here. Visitors can encounter minimum 100 types of birds in a day.Day 05: Koshi Tappu
A full day Bird activity on foot and in boat, Koshi Tappu is one of the Asia’s finest wetlands and fabulous bird watching area. Almost all of Nepal’s long list of wildfowl, waders, storks, ibises, herons, egrets, tems and gulls occur here plus a great variety of land-birds that include such specialties as Swamp Francolin, Red-necked Falcon and Straited Marsh Wabler.
Day 06: Drive Koshi Tappu-Biratnagar and fly to Kathmandu.
Day 07: Kathmandu sightseeing
City sightseeing of places like Pashupatinath, Boudhanath and Bhaktapur
Day 08:Transfer to the airport for international departure.
For More Detail and Bookings Feel Free to Contact Us : [madanprasain@gmail.com]
Monday, June 6, 2011
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| Ilam Tea Garden |
The district is famous for tea and six 'As' - aalu (potato), alaichi (cardamom), aduwaa (ginger), akabare khursani (red round chilly), olan (milk) and amliso (a grass from which brooms are made, Thysanalaena). Among the six 'As', potato, ginger, cardamom, red round chilly and amliso are exported to Siliguri and Darjeeling in India and Tea is exported to foreign countries.
Ilam is inhabited by the people from various sects and ethnic group and is an interface of different cultures and religions. Ilam has natural green hills covered with tea plantation and forests, diverse climate, simple living style and houses depicting its own arts and unique style. The following touristic places with panoramic view are eager to welcome guests:
Shriantu: Antu Hill situated in the far east of Ilam, famous for viewing sunrise. Most of the flat land of the Terai, Mirik, Kurseong, darjeeling along with beautiful tea gardens can be seen from this place.
Sandakpur: Situated in the north of Ilam, Sandakpur is the main touristic place. Sunrise, sunset, Mount Kanchenjunga, Mount Everest, all parts of Ilam district and Darjeeling in India can be viewed from this place. various kinds of animals like musk deer and red panda and rare species of birds like pheasant can also be seen here.
Siddhithumka: This place is also famous for panoramic views of sunrise and sunset and most of the flat land of the terai.
Mangmalung: This is situated in the middle of the forest at the upper part of Ibhang and is the important religious place for the Kiratis. This place is regarded as the origin of the Kirat religion. There is also a cave of Matrika Kirateswar and a festival is observed every year with a great pomp and show.Mai Pokhari: is a pristine lake amid natural forest. The pond surrounded by the thick forest of fir, juniper, birch and pine is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Various species of orchids, rhododendron, herbs; rare animals like musk deer, leopard, porcupine, jackal; numerous migratory birds and rare insects, are found in the region. The lake is also considered holy as the abode of Goddess Bhagabati. An annual fair is held here every autumn around the month of October or November. Mai Pokhari is about 18 kilometers from Ilam Bazaar which is about 30-minute drive.
Kanyam and Fikkal: have large estates for which Ilam has been famous for the last 140 years. These tea plantation areas are popular among tourists for picnicking, sightseeing, and taking photographs. Fikkal is a business center in the area. It falls on the Mechi highway on the way to Ilam.
Chhintapu: Mt. kanchenjunga along with most parts of Ilam can be viewed from here. 11 types of rhododendron, rare birds, butterflies important for research study, important herbs like yarshagumba (aphrodisiac) and Paanch Aaulay and rare animals like red panda and musk deer are found in here.
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| Mai Pokhari |
Access: Ilam Bazaar is in Ilam district Mechi Zone. It is approximately 700 kilometers and 18 hour-drive to east of Kathmandu. Daily bus services ply for Ilam from central Bus Station, Gongabu, in Kathmandu. Buses are also available from the major cities. There are flights from Kathmandu to Biratnagar and Bhadrapur from where Ilam can be driven to via Birtamod.
The famous Darjeeling city of India is just 2-hour’s drive from Pashupatinagar on the Nepal-India border of Ilam district. Nepali nationals and Indians can commute by the land to India from Pashupatinagar in Ilam. However, this entry/exit poin is for local use and Indian tourists only. Entry and exit from the eastern point for other travelers is allowed from Kakkarbhitta in Jhapa.
Food and Accommodations: Good to moderate facilities are available for food and accommodation in Ilam Bazaar. Besides home-stay facilities are also available in selected areas; telephone, medical and other tourist facilities are also available in Ilam Bazaar.
When to visit: The subtropical climate of Ilam ensures good weather throughout the year. The best time to visit Ilam is between October-December, or from April-February. People from different parts of Nepal visit Maipokhari in Ilam for an annual festival on Kartik Ekadasi which falls in October or November. Thousands visit Mai Beni during Maghe Sankranti which falls in January.
Predominant Culture: The main groups residing in Ilam are Brahimins, Chhetris, and Lepchas. A Lepchas is at initial stage at Antu and is in the process of being extended.
Pilgrimage Sites are numerous in and around Ilam. The popular ones are:
· Gajur Mukhi a stone tunnel with carved images of Hindu deities. It is on the bank of Deumai Khola, west of Ilam Bazaar. Gajur Mukhi is 4-hour drive from Ilam Bazzar.
· Pathibhara is in Ilam is believed to be as the younger sister of Pathibhara Devi in Taplejung. The temple is in Hanspokhari, southeast of Kolbung VDC and is on the way to Ilam on Mechi Highway.
· Mai Beni house the temple of Lord Shiva at the confluence of rives Mai Khola and Jogma Khola. It is located about 3 kilometers away from Ilam Bazaar. Thousands of devotees gather here on the day of Maghe Sankranti in January.
Besides these there are: Narayansthan in Ilam Bazaar, where a special festival takes place on Krishna Asthami; Bhimsensthan near Ilam Chowk; Singha Bahini in South Ilam, with a beautiful garden in the temple complex; Sati Devi Temple, on Puwa Khola west of Ilam Bazaar, which is a cultural, religious and magnificent site for domestic as well as other tourists.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
A trek to Langtang valley starts with an overland journey to Syabrubesi, a small string of shops and hotels. Langtang is a narrow valley that lies just south of the Tibetan border. It is sandwiched between the Himalayan range to the north and a slightly lower range of peaks to the south.
This area was designated Nepal’s first Himalayan national park in 1971. This high and isolated region is inhabited by the Tamangs, whose religious practices, language and dress are more similar to those of Tibet then to the traditions of their cousins in the middle hills. According to a legend a lama following a runaway yak discovered the valley. Hence the name – lang its Tibetan for yak, and teng means to follow.Though is area is relatively close to Kathmandu, the region sees far fewer trekkers than Everest and Annapurna. This trek is easily combined with the Gosainkund Trek.
DAY | PLACE | ALTITUDE |
|---|---|---|
Day 1 | Arrive in Kathmandu – Transfer to Hotel | 1,355 m |
Day 2 | Sightseeing in Kathmandu – Afternoon free | 1,355 m |
Day 3 | Kathmandu to Syabrubesi | 1,300 m |
Day 4 | Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel | 2,470 m |
Day 5 | Lama Hotel to Langtang | 3,430 m |
Day 6 | Langtang to Kyanjin Gompa | 3,870 m |
Day 7 | Kyanjin Gompa (Kyanin Ri) | 4,773 m |
Day 8 | Kyanjin Gompa to Lama Hotel | 2,470 m |
Day 9 | Lama Hotel to Syabrubesi | 1,300 m |
Day 10 | Syabrubesi to Kathmandu | 1,355 m |
Day 11 | At Leisure in Kathmandu | 1,355 m |
Day 12 | End of Trek - Flihgt back Home | 1,355 m |
For booking and Detail please write to Madan Prasain
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Gosainkunda:
A lake is believed to have been created by Lord Shiva when he thrust his Trisula (trident) into a mountain to extract water so that he could cool his stinging throat of the lake, which is said to be the remains of a Shiva shrine. People often claim that they see Shiva lying in the water. Devotees gather here in hordes on the full moon night of August to take holy dips in the lake Gosaikunda is situated at the altitude of 4380 m t. to the north of Kathmandu on the Lang tang trekking trail. The holy lake is a two daylong trek from Dhunche, which can be reached through an adventurous 118 km mountain road from Kathmandu via Trisuli Bazaar. Small hotels and pilgrim shelters are available here for travelers.
Manakamana:
The Temple of manakamana, a very popular pilgrimage in Nepal, is a temple of one of the manifestations of the Hindu goddess Bhagawati. Bhagawati is belived to have the power to fulfill wishes. It lies 125 km to the west of kathmandu. It is a steep three- hour hile from Abu Khairenion the Kathmandu-Gorkha highway. A cable car also takes travelers to manakamana.
Janakpur:
Janakpur is the capital of the ancient state of Mithila and the Janaki Temple, located in the center of the city, is well known in the Hindu Kingdom. Sita the wife of the legendary hero Ram was born in Janakpur. Throughout the year, many pilgrims come to pay their respects to Ram and Sita who are the main religious attractions in Janakpur. The city is thronged by worshippers and visitors alike especially during the festival of Bibah Panchami. This annual festival is celebrated on the occasion of Ram and Sita's marriage and their wedding ceremony is enacted throughout the week. During this period, the city is enlivened by the wedding festivities.Ram and Sita (Janaki) are the two central characters of the great Hindu epic Ramayan. In the story, Ram strings a bow that originally belonged to Lord Shiva the Destroyer and in the process, the bow breaks into three pieces. One piece flies up to heaven. Another falls down into the depths of the underworld. Today, there is a huge pond called Dhanush Sagar above the very spot. The third piece flies to present day Dhanushadham, about 40 kilometers from Janakpur. There, visitors will see huge rocks shaped liked a bow. Thus, after Ram's successful attempt to string the bow, Janaki's father, King Janak gives his daughter's hand in marriage to the brave prince of Ayodhya.
Muktinath:
The famous temple of Lord Muktinath lies in the district of Mustang and is situated about 18 kilometers northeast of Jomsom at an altitude of about 3,749 meters. The temple is situated on a high mountain range and is visited during fair weather.Simraunaghad:
The capital of the former kingdom of Tirahut, is the seat of a rich civilization, which peaked between the 11th and 14th centuries. The ancient city suffered terrible devastation in the hands of invaders but its cultural glory remained in the archeological treasures that are found here. They’re many Hindu temples that draw people to this place in large numbers. Simraunghadh is situated in the Terai plains to the south of Kathmandu. The most convenient access to this place, by air, is from Birgunj (270 Km away from Kathmandu). Another route to Simraugadh is a Flight to Simara (15 minutes) and then a drive to Birgunj (25 km) from where it is 45 km to simraughad.
Balmiki Asharm:
The Balmaki Ashram is situated in the forest on the banks of the Terbeni river, at the southwestern corner of the Royal Chitwan National park. It was a retreat used by the great Hindu sage, Balmaki. This is where Sita is sad to have live with her two sons, Labha and Kusha, after separation from Rama. Various statues were unearthed in this area during an archeological excavation in the late 60's. Recently, a Temple of Sita has been built here.
Varahakshetra:
Varahakshetra, located at the confluence of the Saptakoshi and Kaka rivers, is 20 km away from a town in eastern Nepal - Dharan. Varahakshetra is among the four great Hindu pilgrimages. Here, the boar-Varaha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu is sald to have a said to have killed demon Hiranakshaya. Apart from the main shrine dedicated to Varaha, there are many other temple with images of the Varaha is Varahakshetra. Every year on the first of Magh (November), a religious fare takes place here.
Devghat:
Devghat is situated 6 km to the north of Narayanghat, the gateway to the Royal Chitwan National Park. On the day of the Makar Sakranti festival in January pilgrims come here to take holy dips in the Narayani, formed by the meeting of the kali Gandaki and Trisuli. There is a settlement of a community of elderly, retired people here. Davghat can be reached by taking a daily flight or bus services.
Dhanushadham:
A historical and religious site, dates back to the time of the great epic- Ramayana. It is located 18 km northeast of janakpur in the south central region of Nepal. Dhanushadham was the place where Lord Rama had broke Shiva's divine bow, a condition for winning the hand of Sita in marriage. According to the epic, one of the three pieces of the bow fell in the present day Dhanushadham.
Ridi:
Ridi is among the most popular religious places in Nepal. Rikeshwor narayan Mandir, situated here, is the local version of the Pashupatinath temple with its auspicious Ghats (cremation grounds). It is situated at the confluence of the Kali Gandaki and the Ridi Khola, linked by a 50 km dirt road to the hill resort town of Tansen.
During the Makar Sankranti Festival, hundreds of devotees from different parts of the world throng the Dhanusha temple to worship the fossilized bow fragments and to take ritual dips in the river. Here, thee are other temples dedicated to Devendra and Ganesh too.
Lumbibni:
Lumbini is a Buddhist pilgrimage site located in Rupandehi District, Lumbini Zone of Nepal. It the place where Mayadevi gave birth to Siddhartha Gautama who later became a Buddha(Gautama Buddha), and founded the religion of Buddhism. Gautama Buddha lived between approximately 563 BCE and 483 BCE. For Buddhists, this is one of the four main pilgrimage sites based around the life of Gautama Buddha, the other three being Kushinagar, Bodh Gaya, and Sarnath. Lumbini is located 25kms east of the municipality of Kapilavastu, the place where the Buddha grew up and lived up to the age of 29. Kapilvastu is the name of place as well as the neighbouring district. Lumbini has various Buddhist temples including the Mayadevi temple and many which are presently (2007) under construction. There is also the Puskarini pond and remains of Kapilvastu palace in Lumbini. There are other sites near Lumbini where, according to Buddhist tradition, previous Buddha were born and achieved enlightenment and died.Pashupatinath Temple:
Pashupati Nath is considered one of the holiest shrines of all the Hindu temples. It is 6km. east of downtown Kathmandu. The temple has remained the presiding deity of ruling Nepalese Royalty. The two tier magnificient golden temple, with four triple silver doorways, is a unique example of the Nepalese temple architecture. It is one of the largest Hindu temple complexes in South-Asia with hundreds of Shiva Lingam shrines and icons Hindu Gods and Goddesses. The temple is spread out over a large area.
The main entrance, for Hindu people only, is on the western side. Tourists may peak inside, or go on the other side of the river to have a glimpse of the temple complex from above. During the festival of Shivaratri (February – March) 10,000's of devotees and pligrims (many from India) visit this temple and make ceremonial fires.
Changunarayan Temple:
Situated on a small hillock overlooking the Kathmandu Valley, this temple is 12km. east of Kathmandu. The temple is decorated with magnificent art works in metal and wood. This famous temple was built in the 3rd century A.D. An inscription opposite the temple tells about a historic event which is the first epigraphic evidence of Nepali history.Friday, March 18, 2011
The Indian sky is changing - the March winds are coming in and winter begins to bow out. Holi is the festival that carries the country into the bright days of summer. A feeling of plenty is in the air - the crops have been cut, threshed and stored or sold. The farmer is at rest and money is at hand. ‘Holi’ falls on the full moon, in the month of Phalgun, which spans the end of Februry and the beginning of March on the Gregorian calendar. A time when Spring is in the air.
The legend of King Hiranyakashipu is associated with the festival of Holi. This legend signifies the victory of good over evil, of devotion surpassing ambition. King Hiranyakashipu was an ambitious ruler, one who wanted absolute power so that he would be worshipped as God. When this wish was made known, the King's own son, Prahlad, refused to obey his father. Prahlad was an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu, and it was only to his Lord that he gave allegiance.
The proud King was enraged by Prahlad's disobedience and decided to punish him severely. He asked his sister Holika for help. It was believed that Holika was immune to fire and would never be burnt, so the King asked Holika to sit in the centre of a bonfire with Prahlad on her lap, so that the fire could devour him. The bonfire was lit, and young Prahlad sat in Holika's lap, in its centre, praying to Lord Vishnu. His devotion saved him, leaving him untouched by the flames, but Holika was burnt to ashes. To mark this legend, huge bonfires are lit on the eve of Holi, especially in Bihar and the rest of North India.
Vrindavan and Lord Krishna's legend of courting Radha and playing pranks on the Gopis are also the essence of Holi. In Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna in his youth has been idealised as a lover, and it is the spirit of his lighthearted, mischievous passion of courtship that enters the Spring festival of Holi. Krishna and Radha are depicted celebrating Holi in the hamlets of Gokul, Barsana and Vrindavan, bringing them alive with mischief and youthful pranks.
Holi was Krishna and Radha's celebration of love - a teasing, affectionate panorama of feeling and colour. These scenes have been captured and immoratalised in the songs of Holi: the festival that is also the harbinger of the light, warm and beautiful days of spring.
ABOUT HOLI:
The festival of Holi begins on Duwadashi - on the twelfth day of the waxing moon in the month of Phalgun. Spirits run high as the preparations for the festivities begin, as a custom, mothers make new clothes for their married daughters. Coloured powder (Gulal) is bought and prepared, long syringes called 'pichkaris' are made ready and water balloons are bought and filled. Preparations are made to cook the special food items that are exclusively meant for this festival.
Three days before the full moon, 'Rang Pashi' brings Holi into all households. The families get together in the evenings when people visit each other to perform the formal sprinkling of colour. In the past ‘the household purohit' or priest was invited to begin the celebrations. Today, however this task has been taken over by the eldest male member of the family. A 'thali' or plate is arranged with coloured powders and coloured water is placed in a small brass container called a 'lota'. The eldest male member of the family begins the festivities by sprinkling coloured water and powders on each member of the assembled family. It is then the turn of the younger ones to do the same. In this unique way, affection and blessings are shared by all in the family. The celebrations on this day end with the partaking of food specially cooked for this occasion - gujjia, papri and kanji ke vade. Sometimes, meat dish like kofta curry is also served. It is customary to serve drinks before the meal.
The next day is known as 'Puno'. On this day, Holika is burnt in keeping with the legend of Prahlad and his devotion to lord Vishnu. In the evening, huge bonfires are lit on street corners at the crossroads. Usually this is a community celebration and people gather near the fire to fill the air with folk strains and dances. Sheaves of green gram and wheat are roasted in the bonfire and eaten.
The actual festival of Holi takes place the day after this. This day is called 'Parva'. Children, friends and neighbours gather on the streets and a riot of colour takes over. Coloured powders called 'abeer' or 'gulal' are thrown into the air and smeared on faces and bodies. 'Pichkaris' are filled with coloured water and this is spurted onto people. Water balloons are thrown at friends and neighbours in the spirit of fun. Sometimes, mud baths are prepared and people are 'dunked' into this amidst much laughter and teasing. The visitors carry 'abeer' or 'gulal' to pay their respects to elders by sprinkling some on their feet. The younger crowd is drenched with buckets of coloured water and pummeled with water balloons. 'Dholaks' or Indian drums are heard everywhere and the songs of Holi are carried by the voices of these merry-makers. There is no 'puja' or worship associated with this festival of colours. Some 'gulal' or 'abeer' is smeared on the faces of the Gods, especially Krishna and Radha, at the commencement of the festivities.
There are some quaint customs attached to this festival. Inviting sons-in-law and their families for a meal on this day is a must. When the meal is over, it is customary to give the sons-in-law, what is known as a 'pyala' - a crisp note of any denomination from rupees five to rupees five hundred is offered along with a glass of drink. Married daughters are given what is called 'kothli' or travel money by their mother-in-law, or the eldest lady in the family. Another custom entails a bit of fun, and is usually performed by a new bride with the help of the children in the family. The new bride is supposed to play a prank on the older couples of the family, usually her parents-in-law, and somehow lure them into a room to lock them in. The bride then demands a present for setting them free. The gift is usually a saree or a piece of jewelry. The bride is supposed to sing a song specially composed for the occasion, in which she will demand her ransom.
Holi is celebrated in the country with great zest and verve. It is a time to remember the brightness and splendor of living, a time to spread joy, colour and love into the lives of our near and dear ones.
Article From: HOLI HANGAMA
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
A golden spire crowning a conical wooded hill, Swayambhunath Stupa is the most ancient and enigmatic of all the holy shrines in Kathmandu valley. Its lofty white dome and glittering golden spire are visible for many miles and from all sides of the valley. Historical records found on a stone inscription give evidence that the stupa was already an important Buddhist pilgrimage destination by the 5th century AD. Its origins however, date to a much earlier time, long before the arrival of Buddhism into the valley. A collection of legends about the site, the 15th century Swayambhu Purana, tells of a miraculous lotus, planted by a past Buddha, which blossomed from the lake that once covered Kathmandu valley. The lotus mysteriously radiated a brilliant light, and the name of the place came to be Swayambhu, meaning 'Self-Created or Self-Existent'. Saints, sages and divinities traveled to the lake to venerate this miraculous light for its power in granting enlightenment. During this time, the Bodhisatva Manjushri was meditating at the sacred mountain of Wu Tai Shan and had a vision of the dazzling Swayambhu light. Manjushri flew across the mountains of China and Tibet upon his blue lion to worship the lotus. Deeply impressed by the power of the radiant light, Manjushri felt that if the water were drained out of the lake Swayambhu would become more easily accessible to human pilgrims. With a great sword Manjushri cut a gorge in the mountains surrounding the lake. The water, draining away, left the valley of present day Kathmandu. The lotus was then transformed into a hill and the light became the Swayabhunath Stupa.Swayambhunath's worshippers include Hindus, Vajrayana Buddhists of northern Nepal and Tibet, and the Newari Buddhists of central and southern Nepal. Each morning before dawn, hundreds of pilgrims will ascend the 365 steps that lead up the hill, file past the gilded Vajra (Tibetan: Dorje) and two lions guarding the entrance, and begin a series of clockwise circumambulations of the stupa (Newari Buddhists circle in the opposite, counterclockwise direction). On each of the four sides of the main stupa there is a pair of big eyes. These eyes are symbolic of God's all-seeing perspective. There is no nose between the eyes but rather a representation of the number one in the Nepali alphabet, signifying that the single way to enlightenment is through the Buddhist path. Above each pair of eyes is another eye, the third eye, signifying the wisdom of looking within. No ears are shown because it is said the Buddha is not interested in hearing prayers in praise of him.
The area surrounding the stupa is filled with chaityas, temples, painted images of deities and numerous other religious objects. There are many small shrines with statues of Tantric and shamanistic deities, prayer wheels for the Tibetan Buddhists, Shiva lingams (now disguised as Buddhist chaityas and decorated with the faces of the the Dhyani Buddhas), and a popular Hindu temple dedicated to Harati, the Goddess of smallpox and other epidemics.The presence of the Harati Devi temple signifies the intermingling of the pantheons of Hinduism and Buddhism in the development of the religious trends of Nepal. As Buddhists had no deity in their own pantheon to protect against the dreaded smallpox, they adopted the Hindu deity for assistance.
Atop Swayambhunath hill is another fascinating, though smaller and less visited temple. This is Shantipur, the 'Place of Peace', inside of which, in a secret, always locked, underground chamber lives the 8th century Tantric master Shantikar Acharya. Practising meditation techniques which have preserved his life for uncounted centuries, he is a great esoteric magician who has complete power over the weather. When the valley of Kathmandu is threatened by drought, the King of Nepal must enter the underground chamber to get a secret mandala from Shantikar. Soon after the mandala is brought outside and shown to the sky, rain begins to fall. Frescoes painted on the inside temple walls depict when last this occurred in 1658. The small temple has a powerful atmosphere; it is mysterious, stern and slightly ominous.Swayambhunath stupa is also called the `Monkey Temple' because of the many hundreds of monkeys who scamper about the temple at night after the pilgrims and priests have departed. Nearby the Swayambhunath hill are other important temples such as the Shiva Jyotir Linga temple of Pashupatinath, Boudhanath stupa, Changu Narayan, Dakshinkali, and Budhanilkantha. Readers interested in studying the sacred sites of the Kathmandu valley in detail are referred to the works of Bubriski, Majupuria and Moran listed in the bibliography.
Article From: SACRED SITES, Photos At: SECRED SITE
Saturday, March 12, 2011
King Anand Dev established the town in the year 889 AD, and it is therefore steeped in tradition, culture and a rich history. The Mallas ruled Bhaktapur for many years. Most of the statues, temples and sanctuaries seen today were constructed during their rule. Bhaktapur Durbar Square is home to some of the most beautiful and breathtaking of these creations, complete with wooden carvings, gateways and idols.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is unique as it is one of the few sights in Nepal that hosts a great variety of attractions at the same location. One of these attractions is the Lion Gate. This spectacular gate was constructed in the 17th century, in approximately the year 1696, by King Bhupatendra Malla. The reason visitors are attracted to this gate, is the two massive and beautifully crafted statues of lions that guard the gate. Next to the lions are the images of goddess Ugrachandi and Lord Shiva carved from stone. As visitors start moving toward the center attraction of the Durbar Square in Bhaktapur, the Fifty-Five Window Palace, they will be greeted by the Golden Gate or Sun Dhoka. As the main entrance to the palace courtyard, King Ranjit Malla spared no expense with the gate's construction in the 7th century. It is known as the most exquisite of its kind in the world and is beautifully decorated. The doors of the Golden Gate are adorned with Garuda (mythical half-man half bird) and goddess Kali, both being cared for by heavenly creatures. The Palace of Fifty-Five Windows was constructed in the year 1427 by King Yakshay Malla and renovated in the 17th century by King Bhupatindra Malla. It is considered an architectural masterpiece, constructed from wood and brick. Its most significant feature is the balcony that is home to the famous Fifty-Five windows. This is a woodcarving feat that leaves visitors awestruck.Ranking amongst the noteworthy sights in Nepal, the Durbar Square in Bhaktapur has much more to offer than just a palace and two gates. Visitors will also be able to visit the 17th century Vatsala Temple and the Pashupati Temple. The pagoda temple, the temple of Nyatapola, was constructed in the year 1702. Standing five-storeys in height, it is the tallest pagoda in Nepal. The figurines on each floor are spectacular and each storey is individually connected to the elements of sky, wind, water, fire and earth. The art gallery displays various religious art pieces and the looming statue of King Bhupatindra Malla pays tribute to a king that was not only a ruler, but a creative mind and artist. Visitors can also look forward to viewing the Stone Temple of Batsala Devi, the Bhairavnath Temple, Dattatraya Temple and the Changu Narayan Temple. Visiting the Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a unique and rare opportunity to relive history and touch the past.
Fast Facts:
Location | Kathmandu Valley |
Significance | UNESCO World Heritage Site |
UNESCO Category | Cultural |
UNESCO Listed | 1979 |
Major Attraction | The Golden Gate, Fifty Five Window Palace, Nyatapola, Datatri Square and Pottery Square |
Places To Visit :
The Lion Gate
The massive gate that dates back to 1696 AD is guarded by two huge statues of lions at the either sides. The dreadful stone image of Lord Shiva and the fearful image of Ugrachandi attract the tourists from far off.
The Golden Gate (Sun Dhoka):
The Golden gate is said to be the most beautiful and richly moulded specimen of its kind in the entire world. The door is a embellished with monsters and mythical creatures of marvellous intricacy. The Golden Gate was erected by King Ranjit Malla and is the entrance to the main courtyard of the Palace of fifty-five windows.
The Palace of Fifty Five Windows:
Keshav Narayan Chowk is the Northern-most part of the Patan Darbar palace complex, with the dominating Degutale temple next to it. This magnificent palace was built during the reign of King Yakshay Malla in AD 1427 and was subsequently remodeled by King Bhupatindra Malla in the seventeenth century. Among the brick walls with their gracious setting and sculptural design, is a balcony with fifty-five Windows, considered a unique masterpiece of woodcarving.
The Art Gallery:
The Art Gallery contains ancient paintings belonging to the Hindu and Buddhist traditions of various periods and descriptions. The gallery is particularly famous among researchers on Hinduism and Buddhism.
The Statue of King Bhupatindra Malla:
This statue depicts King Bhupendra Malla in the act of worship and is located on a column facing the palace. This is considered the most magnificent statue among the many statues in the squares.
Nyatapola:
This is the most famous pagoda of Nepal, which was built in 1702 A.D by Bhupatendra Mala. This temple was dedicated to Siddhilaxmi, the tantric mother goddess of supreme power. Nyatapola in Newari means a five tiered symbolizing five basic elements - water, earth, fire, wind and sky.
Pashupati Temple:
According to a folklore, a Bhaktapur native who was a great devotee of Lord Pashupati, had a dream in which lord Shiva told him to build a temple for him so that he could move into it. He obeyed this command and thus the temple came into existence.
Vatsala Temple:
This 17th century stone temple, dedicated to a mother goddess, is full of intricate works on stone.
Article : NEPAL.COM, SAARC TOURISM, Photos: Madan Prasain
Article : NEPAL.COM, SAARC TOURISM, Photos: Madan Prasain
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