Nepal's only international airport is located in it's capital, Kathmandu. There are few direct flights to Nepal, which means most travelers from Europe, North America and Australia have to change aircraft and/or airline en route.
Customs
Visitors arriving without any dutiable goods can pass directly through the Green Channel, without any baggage check. For declaration of dutiable goods visitors should pass through the Red Channel.
Duty Free Goods
You are allowed to bring, free of duty, 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars, one 1.15 liter bottle of distilled liquor and 15 rolls of film. All electronic and optical equipment are allowed into the country with the condition that you leave with them.
Export Restrictions
It is illegal to export objects over 100 years old (sacred images, paintings, manuscripts) that are valued for culture and religious reasons. Metal statues, sacred paintings and similar objects have to be certified by the Department of Archeology for export.
Departure Tax
An Airport tax of Rs. 600/ per passenger is levied on departure to SAARC (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka) Countries and Rs. 1,000 to other international destinations. Those flying within Nepal are required to pay Rs. 50 as the airport tax.
Transport to City
Taxi's are available at the airport for transport into the city. They charge a fix price of Rs200. Rarely, taxis are not available (strike), then man powered cycle rickshaws will give you a warm welcome to local transport.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Information about Visa & Passport in nepal
Foreigner who intends to visit Nepal must hold valid passport or any travel document equivalent to passport issued by the Govt. for visiting a foreign country prior to apply for visa.
A) Entry: - No foreigner is entitled to enter into and stay in the Kingdom of Nepal without valid visa. Tourist entry visa can be obtained for the following duration from Royal Nepalese Embassy or Consulate or other mission offices or immigration offices located on entry points in Nepal.
B) Chinese citizen are requested to apply in Royal Nepalese Embassy or other Nepalese diplomatic missions, as there is no provision of on arrival visa for them.
1. Visitors who are entering Nepal for the first time in a visa year (Jan-Dec):
Facilities, Duration, Fee.
Single entry 60 days from the date of entry, US$ 30 or equivalent convertible foreign currency.
Multiple entry* US$ 80 or equivalent convertible foreign currency.
* Multiple entry will be valid for a visa year (150 days in a visa year).
2. For Shrilankan Pilgrims visiting to Lumbini can get single entry visa for 15 days in US$ 10 or equivalent convertible currency.
C) Tourist Visa Extension: A tourist visa can be extended up to 120 days from the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu and Pokhara Immigration Office on request. Then after an additional 30 days can be extended from Department of Immigration on reasonable ground, which ensures one's departure from the country within 150 days in one visa year.
1. Tourist visa extension fee and additional late fee are as follows: -
Visa extension without re-entry facility for 30 days: US$ 30 in equivalent Nepalese currency.
Visa extension with multiple entry facility for 30 days: US$ 80 in equivalent Nepalese currency. One who has previously taken multiple re-entry facility in the same visa year will have to pay US$ 30 only.
2. Late fee for regularizing tourist visa
US$ 2 in equivalent Nepalese currency per day for the first 30 days.
US$ 3 in equivalent Nepalese currency per day for the next 31 to 90 days.
US$ 5 in equivalent Nepalese currency per day for more than 90 days.
3. Fee exemption of tourist visa
Children below 10 yrs. Descendant's up to the age of 16 years, holding foreign passports, of Nepalese parents or either of their parents is a Nepalese citizen.
Citizen of Nepali origin, after having obtained passport for the first time from a Nepal based foreign mission, until the period of his departure to a foreign country.
Some Important information to tourist: Don't or Do's
A tourist may stay in Nepal up to 150 days in a visa year (Jan-Dec).
A tourist must extend his/her visa before expiry of the visa validity period.
A tourist who does not comply with these regulations may be liable of fine and other prosecution as provided in Immigration Act and Rules.
A Foreigner having obtained tourist visa shall not allowed working with or without receiving remuneration.
A foreigner shall not be allowed to carry out any work other than that for which purpose she/he has obtained the visa.
Transit Visa:
a) A Transit visa can be obtained from the Airport Immigration Office for a period of 48 hours on the presentation of confirmed air ticket.
b) Fee for Transit visa is US$ 5.00Other visa categories (Except tourist and transit visa)
Diplomatic Visa:
A) Who may apply?
Diplomatic passport holders and their family members recommended from the concerned foreign diplomatic mission and considered fit to be granted diplomatic privileges by His Majesty's Government.
B) Issuing Authority:
Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
For 30 days entry diplomatic missions and the Immigration Office at the entry points in Nepal.
Official Visa:
Who may apply?
The official visa shall be granted to the persons considered fit by His Majesty's Government and their family and to the following foreigners and their family upon recommendation of the concerned diplomatic missions:
a) Administrative, Technical and non-diplomatic officials serving in a residential or non-residential diplomatic missions, Consulate for Nepal and incumbent Nepalese honorary Consul Generals, Consuls and their family who visit Nepal from a foreign country.
b) Consultant experts who stay in Nepal under an agreement with his Majesty's Government,
c) Employees serving in the Nepal based offices of the United Nations or its agencies and the persons holding the laissez passes granted by the United Nations.
d) Employees serving in the international institutions or regional organizations located in Nepal.
Study Visa:
A foreigner who wants to study, teach or conduct research works in any educational institute having obtained the approval of His Majesty's Govt.
a) Who may apply?
Students, Research scholars, Teachers and their family members.
b) What is needed to apply?
The applicants should produce:
Recommendation letter from the Ministry of Education of Nepal.
Bank encashment receipt or bank balance equivalent to US$ 3,000 per year or US$ 250 per month for applicants and US$ 2,000 for each family members. Six copies of application forms with photographs.
One photocopy of passport including the copy of last Nepalese visa.
c) Duration : Up to one year, however, it can be extended for the period of research or academic year.
d) Issuing Authority : Department of Immigration
e) Fee : Nepalese currency equivalent to US$ 40 per month (In Nepalese Currency).
For Srilankan students Nepalese currency equivalent to US$ 9 per month (In Nepalese Currency). For Bangladeshi students Nepalese currency equivalent to US$ 14 per month, with multiple re-entry (In Nepalese Currency).
Non-tourist Visa
Who may apply: Following foreigners and their family members may apply for this
a) Foreigners involved in the social and economic development works approved by His Majesty's Government, under the expenses to be borne by governmental institutions of the foreign friendly nations.
b) Foreigners having obtained recommendation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to work in the institutions run by the foreign missions located in Nepal.
c) Foreign representatives having obtained recommendation from the Ministry of Information and Communications to work in foreign newspapers and news agencies.
d) Foreigners having obtained recommendation from the concerned Ministry to act as helpers of the foreigners having obtained diplomatic or official visas.
e) Foreigners having obtained approval from His Majesty's Government to work on remuneration basis in any firm, company, association, industry or enterprise within the Kingdom of Nepal.
f) Foreigners having obtained recommendation from the Ministry concerned to work in any international airlines organization located in the Kingdom of Nepal.
g) Foreign importer visiting Nepal from third country on the recommendation of foreign governmental agency or Federation of Industries or Chamber of Commerce of Foreign Country.
h) Foreigners who have marital relation with the citizens of Nepal and furnish the marriage registration certificate.
i) Foreigners who come to Nepal to work, on the recommendation of the concerned Ministry pursuant to an agreement or understanding agreed upon at governmental or non governmental level.
j) Foreigners having obtained recommendation of the concerned Ministry to conduct feasibility study of an industry or enterprise for a period not exceeding 6 months.
k) Group leader of the foreigners making application, accompanied by the recommendation of the Ministry of concerned, for making the tourists' tour in group in Nepal.
Foreigners who have obtained recommendation of the concerned Ministry and who have to come to work in Non-governmental organization as per the agreement concluded with Social Welfare Council or concerned Ministry.
What is needed to apply?
1. Recommendation from the concerned Ministry or Department.
2. Work permit (for the employees) .
3. Six Copies of application forms with photographs.
4. A copy of passport including the copy of last Nepalese Visa.
5. A marriage certificate from the concerned authority to obtain NT visa on the grounds of marriage.
6. A relation certificate from the competent authority to obtain NT Visa on the grounds of relation.
7. Valid Press identity card issued from Department of Information.
Duration: Up to one year at one time (can be extended)
Issuing Authority :
l. For the category (g) mentioned above - Nepalese Diplomatic Missions or Embassy abroad.
For all others - Department of Immigration Fee :
For journalist status Nepalese currency equivalent to US$ 10 per month.
For marriage status Nepalese currency equivalent to US$ 10 per month.
For status of category (a) mentioned above - Nepalese currency equivalent to US$ 20 per month.
For the status of all other categories if otherwise not mentioned - Nepalese currency equivalent to US$ 60 per month for the first year and US$ 100 per month for succeeding year.
For Chinese worker of category (i) mentioned above - Nepalese currency equivalent to US$ 20 per month.
Residential Visa: Who may apply?
Following foreigners and their family members who want to stay in Nepal for rest of their life may apply for this visa.
Renowned international personalities.
Foreigners capable of rendering outstanding contribution to the economic, social and cultural development of the Kingdom of Nepal. Persons who have renounced the citizenship of Nepal, and hold foreign passport with or without having obtained foreign citizenship and intend to settle down in Nepal.
Investor who invest minimum of US$ 100 thousands at one time in an industrial enterprise in the Kingdom of Nepal.
Foreigners interested to settle in the Kingdom of Nepal without any business.
What is needed to apply?
Six copies of application forms with photographs.
Registration certificate of the industrial enterprise.
A copy of passport.
A copy of last Nepalese visa ( if have stayed in Nepal).
Bank statement showing expenses equivalent to US$ 20,000.00 per year and
Health certificate (only for those foreigners who are interested to settle down in Nepal, but are not engaged in any type of business).
No objection letter from consulate or embassy of their country.
Recommendation from Ministry of Home of Nepal.
Where should the application be submitted?
Royal Nepalese Diplomatic Missions or Embassy abroad.
Issuing Authority:
Department of Immigration.
Renewal Authority:
Department of Immigration.
Fee:
Foreigners interested to settle in the Kingdom of Nepal without any business.
Issuance fee (with multiple entry facilities) US$ 700 per year.
Renewal fee (with multiple facilities) US$ 1200 per year.
Note: According to the Immigration Regulation, the term family includes husband, wife, father, mother and dependent son and daughter.
Temporary Visa Arrangements
Concerned Ministry can recommend temporary visa to any foreigner for 3 months for non-tourist/study/business visa in order to cover the delay in providing long-term recommendations.
A three-month non-tourist visa can be obtained from the Dept. of Immigration upon the recommendation from concerned Embassy or competent authority for the delay to get marriage certificate from the local authority.
Note: The travel document will be provided by the Dept. under the following conditions.
Those nationals who will not be able to replace their loss/damage/theft/expiry passport in Nepal fro their own embassy or consulate.
Those persons who will be deported from Nepal.
Non-Residential Nepalese Visa
Who may apply?
Any foreigner of Nepalese origin residing in foreign country who wish to reside or conduct business, profession or Study, teach in any subject in Nepal, non-residential Nepalese visa may be issued to him and of his family.
What is needed to apply?
Six copies of application forms with photographs.
A copy of passport.
A copy of last Nepalese visa (if have stayed in Nepal).
Health certificate
Recommendation letter of relationship from the concerned Embassy or village development committee or municipality
In case of student status of this visa recommendation from school or college or research institutions.
Where should the application be submitted?
Royal Nepalese Diplomatic Missions or Embassy abroad.
Department of Immigration.
Duration:
Up to 10 years, can be extended.
Issuing Authority:
Department of Immigration.
Renewal Authority:
Department of Immigration.
Fee: Issuance fee US$ 100 per year. For Student status of this visa category fee is US$ 50 per year. The visa fee is waived for those who are less than 16 years of age.
Note: According to the Immigration Regulation, the term family includes husband, wife, father, mother and dependent son and daughter
A) Entry: - No foreigner is entitled to enter into and stay in the Kingdom of Nepal without valid visa. Tourist entry visa can be obtained for the following duration from Royal Nepalese Embassy or Consulate or other mission offices or immigration offices located on entry points in Nepal.
B) Chinese citizen are requested to apply in Royal Nepalese Embassy or other Nepalese diplomatic missions, as there is no provision of on arrival visa for them.
1. Visitors who are entering Nepal for the first time in a visa year (Jan-Dec):
Facilities, Duration, Fee.
Single entry 60 days from the date of entry, US$ 30 or equivalent convertible foreign currency.
Multiple entry* US$ 80 or equivalent convertible foreign currency.
* Multiple entry will be valid for a visa year (150 days in a visa year).
2. For Shrilankan Pilgrims visiting to Lumbini can get single entry visa for 15 days in US$ 10 or equivalent convertible currency.
C) Tourist Visa Extension: A tourist visa can be extended up to 120 days from the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu and Pokhara Immigration Office on request. Then after an additional 30 days can be extended from Department of Immigration on reasonable ground, which ensures one's departure from the country within 150 days in one visa year.
1. Tourist visa extension fee and additional late fee are as follows: -
Visa extension without re-entry facility for 30 days: US$ 30 in equivalent Nepalese currency.
Visa extension with multiple entry facility for 30 days: US$ 80 in equivalent Nepalese currency. One who has previously taken multiple re-entry facility in the same visa year will have to pay US$ 30 only.
2. Late fee for regularizing tourist visa
US$ 2 in equivalent Nepalese currency per day for the first 30 days.
US$ 3 in equivalent Nepalese currency per day for the next 31 to 90 days.
US$ 5 in equivalent Nepalese currency per day for more than 90 days.
3. Fee exemption of tourist visa
Children below 10 yrs. Descendant's up to the age of 16 years, holding foreign passports, of Nepalese parents or either of their parents is a Nepalese citizen.
Citizen of Nepali origin, after having obtained passport for the first time from a Nepal based foreign mission, until the period of his departure to a foreign country.
Some Important information to tourist: Don't or Do's
A tourist may stay in Nepal up to 150 days in a visa year (Jan-Dec).
A tourist must extend his/her visa before expiry of the visa validity period.
A tourist who does not comply with these regulations may be liable of fine and other prosecution as provided in Immigration Act and Rules.
A Foreigner having obtained tourist visa shall not allowed working with or without receiving remuneration.
A foreigner shall not be allowed to carry out any work other than that for which purpose she/he has obtained the visa.
Transit Visa:
a) A Transit visa can be obtained from the Airport Immigration Office for a period of 48 hours on the presentation of confirmed air ticket.
b) Fee for Transit visa is US$ 5.00Other visa categories (Except tourist and transit visa)
Diplomatic Visa:
A) Who may apply?
Diplomatic passport holders and their family members recommended from the concerned foreign diplomatic mission and considered fit to be granted diplomatic privileges by His Majesty's Government.
B) Issuing Authority:
Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
For 30 days entry diplomatic missions and the Immigration Office at the entry points in Nepal.
Official Visa:
Who may apply?
The official visa shall be granted to the persons considered fit by His Majesty's Government and their family and to the following foreigners and their family upon recommendation of the concerned diplomatic missions:
a) Administrative, Technical and non-diplomatic officials serving in a residential or non-residential diplomatic missions, Consulate for Nepal and incumbent Nepalese honorary Consul Generals, Consuls and their family who visit Nepal from a foreign country.
b) Consultant experts who stay in Nepal under an agreement with his Majesty's Government,
c) Employees serving in the Nepal based offices of the United Nations or its agencies and the persons holding the laissez passes granted by the United Nations.
d) Employees serving in the international institutions or regional organizations located in Nepal.
Study Visa:
A foreigner who wants to study, teach or conduct research works in any educational institute having obtained the approval of His Majesty's Govt.
a) Who may apply?
Students, Research scholars, Teachers and their family members.
b) What is needed to apply?
The applicants should produce:
Recommendation letter from the Ministry of Education of Nepal.
Bank encashment receipt or bank balance equivalent to US$ 3,000 per year or US$ 250 per month for applicants and US$ 2,000 for each family members. Six copies of application forms with photographs.
One photocopy of passport including the copy of last Nepalese visa.
c) Duration : Up to one year, however, it can be extended for the period of research or academic year.
d) Issuing Authority : Department of Immigration
e) Fee : Nepalese currency equivalent to US$ 40 per month (In Nepalese Currency).
For Srilankan students Nepalese currency equivalent to US$ 9 per month (In Nepalese Currency). For Bangladeshi students Nepalese currency equivalent to US$ 14 per month, with multiple re-entry (In Nepalese Currency).
Non-tourist Visa
Who may apply: Following foreigners and their family members may apply for this
a) Foreigners involved in the social and economic development works approved by His Majesty's Government, under the expenses to be borne by governmental institutions of the foreign friendly nations.
b) Foreigners having obtained recommendation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to work in the institutions run by the foreign missions located in Nepal.
c) Foreign representatives having obtained recommendation from the Ministry of Information and Communications to work in foreign newspapers and news agencies.
d) Foreigners having obtained recommendation from the concerned Ministry to act as helpers of the foreigners having obtained diplomatic or official visas.
e) Foreigners having obtained approval from His Majesty's Government to work on remuneration basis in any firm, company, association, industry or enterprise within the Kingdom of Nepal.
f) Foreigners having obtained recommendation from the Ministry concerned to work in any international airlines organization located in the Kingdom of Nepal.
g) Foreign importer visiting Nepal from third country on the recommendation of foreign governmental agency or Federation of Industries or Chamber of Commerce of Foreign Country.
h) Foreigners who have marital relation with the citizens of Nepal and furnish the marriage registration certificate.
i) Foreigners who come to Nepal to work, on the recommendation of the concerned Ministry pursuant to an agreement or understanding agreed upon at governmental or non governmental level.
j) Foreigners having obtained recommendation of the concerned Ministry to conduct feasibility study of an industry or enterprise for a period not exceeding 6 months.
k) Group leader of the foreigners making application, accompanied by the recommendation of the Ministry of concerned, for making the tourists' tour in group in Nepal.
Foreigners who have obtained recommendation of the concerned Ministry and who have to come to work in Non-governmental organization as per the agreement concluded with Social Welfare Council or concerned Ministry.
What is needed to apply?
1. Recommendation from the concerned Ministry or Department.
2. Work permit (for the employees) .
3. Six Copies of application forms with photographs.
4. A copy of passport including the copy of last Nepalese Visa.
5. A marriage certificate from the concerned authority to obtain NT visa on the grounds of marriage.
6. A relation certificate from the competent authority to obtain NT Visa on the grounds of relation.
7. Valid Press identity card issued from Department of Information.
Duration: Up to one year at one time (can be extended)
Issuing Authority :
l. For the category (g) mentioned above - Nepalese Diplomatic Missions or Embassy abroad.
For all others - Department of Immigration Fee :
For journalist status Nepalese currency equivalent to US$ 10 per month.
For marriage status Nepalese currency equivalent to US$ 10 per month.
For status of category (a) mentioned above - Nepalese currency equivalent to US$ 20 per month.
For the status of all other categories if otherwise not mentioned - Nepalese currency equivalent to US$ 60 per month for the first year and US$ 100 per month for succeeding year.
For Chinese worker of category (i) mentioned above - Nepalese currency equivalent to US$ 20 per month.
Residential Visa: Who may apply?
Following foreigners and their family members who want to stay in Nepal for rest of their life may apply for this visa.
Renowned international personalities.
Foreigners capable of rendering outstanding contribution to the economic, social and cultural development of the Kingdom of Nepal. Persons who have renounced the citizenship of Nepal, and hold foreign passport with or without having obtained foreign citizenship and intend to settle down in Nepal.
Investor who invest minimum of US$ 100 thousands at one time in an industrial enterprise in the Kingdom of Nepal.
Foreigners interested to settle in the Kingdom of Nepal without any business.
What is needed to apply?
Six copies of application forms with photographs.
Registration certificate of the industrial enterprise.
A copy of passport.
A copy of last Nepalese visa ( if have stayed in Nepal).
Bank statement showing expenses equivalent to US$ 20,000.00 per year and
Health certificate (only for those foreigners who are interested to settle down in Nepal, but are not engaged in any type of business).
No objection letter from consulate or embassy of their country.
Recommendation from Ministry of Home of Nepal.
Where should the application be submitted?
Royal Nepalese Diplomatic Missions or Embassy abroad.
Issuing Authority:
Department of Immigration.
Renewal Authority:
Department of Immigration.
Fee:
Foreigners interested to settle in the Kingdom of Nepal without any business.
Issuance fee (with multiple entry facilities) US$ 700 per year.
Renewal fee (with multiple facilities) US$ 1200 per year.
Note: According to the Immigration Regulation, the term family includes husband, wife, father, mother and dependent son and daughter.
Temporary Visa Arrangements
Concerned Ministry can recommend temporary visa to any foreigner for 3 months for non-tourist/study/business visa in order to cover the delay in providing long-term recommendations.
A three-month non-tourist visa can be obtained from the Dept. of Immigration upon the recommendation from concerned Embassy or competent authority for the delay to get marriage certificate from the local authority.
Note: The travel document will be provided by the Dept. under the following conditions.
Those nationals who will not be able to replace their loss/damage/theft/expiry passport in Nepal fro their own embassy or consulate.
Those persons who will be deported from Nepal.
Non-Residential Nepalese Visa
Who may apply?
Any foreigner of Nepalese origin residing in foreign country who wish to reside or conduct business, profession or Study, teach in any subject in Nepal, non-residential Nepalese visa may be issued to him and of his family.
What is needed to apply?
Six copies of application forms with photographs.
A copy of passport.
A copy of last Nepalese visa (if have stayed in Nepal).
Health certificate
Recommendation letter of relationship from the concerned Embassy or village development committee or municipality
In case of student status of this visa recommendation from school or college or research institutions.
Where should the application be submitted?
Royal Nepalese Diplomatic Missions or Embassy abroad.
Department of Immigration.
Duration:
Up to 10 years, can be extended.
Issuing Authority:
Department of Immigration.
Renewal Authority:
Department of Immigration.
Fee: Issuance fee US$ 100 per year. For Student status of this visa category fee is US$ 50 per year. The visa fee is waived for those who are less than 16 years of age.
Note: According to the Immigration Regulation, the term family includes husband, wife, father, mother and dependent son and daughter
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Places to see
Daman
Southwest of Kathmandu, midway between the capital and Hetauda, Daman is situated 2322m (7616ft) above sea level. It claims to have the most spectacular outlook on the Himalaya - an unimpeded panorama of snowcaps from Dhaulagiri to Mt Everest.
If the mountains are in cloud when you arrive, you can stay at the ramshackle viewing tower and catch the peaks in the morning. If it's spring, check out the rhododendron forest on the southern side of the village. There are also great views over the Terai to India from here.
Kathmandu
Kathmandu is really two cities: a fabled capital of convivial pilgrims and carved rose-brick temples, and a frenetic sprawl of modern towers, mobbed by beggars and monkeys and smothered in diesel fumes. It simultaneously reeks of history and the encroaching wear and tear of the modern world.
When To Go
October-November, the start of the dry season, is probably the best time of year to visit Kathmandu: the weather is balmy, the air is clean, visibility is perfect and the countryside is lush and green following the monsoon. February-April, the tail end of the dry season is the second-best time to visit: visibility is not so good because of dust, but the weather is warm and many of Nepal's wonderful wild flowers are in bloom. In December and January, the views are crystal clear, but it can be chilly in the evenings: few of the cheaper hotels in Kathmandu have any heating and most travellers stay out in the warmth of Thamel's bars and restaurants until late and then rush home and dive under the blankets. The rest of the year is fairly unpleasant for travelling: May and early June are generally too hot and dusty for comfort, and the monsoon from mid-June to September obscures the mountains in cloud and turns trails and roads to mud. You'll probably find you spend most of the time indoors with a book while the rain thunders down outside.
Pokhara
Imagine a perfect, snow-capped mountain buffeted by icy Himalayan winds. Imagine a millpond calm lake reflecting the snowy peaks. Now imagine a village on the shore, thronged by travellers and reverberating to the sound of 'Om Mani Padme Hum' wafting from shops selling prayer flags, carpets, masks, singing bowls and CDs of Buddhist mantras. That's Pokhara.
fast facts
Full Name
Pokhara
Area
56 sq km
22 sq miles
Population
171,000
Time Zone
GMT/UTC +5.45 ()
Languages
Nepali (official)
More than a hundred languages are registered as mother tongues in Nepal.
Currency
Nepali Rupee (Rs)
Bodhnath
religious/spiritual
This is Nepal's most famous Buddhist monument, a shimmering white stupa topped by a towering golden spire and watched over by the eyes of the Buddha. Thousands of multi-coloured prayer flags flutter overhead and hordes of pilgrims flock here daily to perform the ceremonial circumnavigation of the shrine.
Bodhnath is one of those places that has a tangible spiritual energy. Tibetan pilgrims come here from across Nepal and some measure out the distance around the stupa with their own bodies, throwing themselves to the ground before the stupa in the ultimate act of ritual prostration. Many of the pilgrims are refugees from Tibet and the surrounding shops are crammed with Tibetan antiques and essential household items for Tibetan Buddhists.
Dakshinkali
religious/spiritual ; macabre
At the southern end of the Kathmandu Valley, in a dark, somewhat spooky location, stands the temple of Dakshinkali. The temple is dedicated to the six-armed goddess Kali, Shiva's consort in her most sanguinary incarnation. Twice a week, Nepalese visitors journey here to satisfy her bloodlust.
They bring buffaloes, chickens, ducks, goats, sheep and pigs, which are matter-of-factly dispatched by having their throats slit or heads lopped off. These animals, some still writhing, are then dragged to a nearby stream where they are butchered for a feast at a later date. The blood runs freely every Saturday and especially during the October festival of Dasain when the image of Kali is literally bathed in the stuff.
Hanuman Dhoka (Old Royal Palace)
castle
The old royal palace is a part of Durbar Square, which remains the traditional heart of the old town and a spectacular example of traditional architecture. The king no longer lives here - the royal family moved to Narayanhiti more than a century ago - and the 1934 earthquake damaged the complex, but it remains a fascinating place to explore.
The western part of the palace, overlooking Durbar Square, is home to an interesting museum that celebrates King Tribhuvan's successful putsch against the Ranas. Wander inside and you get an eerie insight into his life: lots of personal effects, extensive photos and newspaper clippings and magnificent furniture and knick-knackery
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
national park
Tel: 025 530897 (info)
This rarely-visited reserve is a great place to escape the crowds for a few days and do some animal- and bird spotting. Water-bird species outnumber tourists 400:1, and the reserve is home to the last surviving population of wild arna (water buffalo), various deer, nilgai, mugger crocodiles and Gangetic dolphins.
Royal Chitwan National Park
national park
Royal Chitwan National Park provides one of the finest wildlife experiences in Asia. While you'd have to be lucky to see one of the tigers or leopards, an elephant safari is an unforgettable experience and you are almost certain to see rhinos, deer, monkeys and numerous bird species, as well as the jumbo underneath you!
Southwest of Kathmandu, midway between the capital and Hetauda, Daman is situated 2322m (7616ft) above sea level. It claims to have the most spectacular outlook on the Himalaya - an unimpeded panorama of snowcaps from Dhaulagiri to Mt Everest.
If the mountains are in cloud when you arrive, you can stay at the ramshackle viewing tower and catch the peaks in the morning. If it's spring, check out the rhododendron forest on the southern side of the village. There are also great views over the Terai to India from here.
Kathmandu
Kathmandu is really two cities: a fabled capital of convivial pilgrims and carved rose-brick temples, and a frenetic sprawl of modern towers, mobbed by beggars and monkeys and smothered in diesel fumes. It simultaneously reeks of history and the encroaching wear and tear of the modern world.
When To Go
October-November, the start of the dry season, is probably the best time of year to visit Kathmandu: the weather is balmy, the air is clean, visibility is perfect and the countryside is lush and green following the monsoon. February-April, the tail end of the dry season is the second-best time to visit: visibility is not so good because of dust, but the weather is warm and many of Nepal's wonderful wild flowers are in bloom. In December and January, the views are crystal clear, but it can be chilly in the evenings: few of the cheaper hotels in Kathmandu have any heating and most travellers stay out in the warmth of Thamel's bars and restaurants until late and then rush home and dive under the blankets. The rest of the year is fairly unpleasant for travelling: May and early June are generally too hot and dusty for comfort, and the monsoon from mid-June to September obscures the mountains in cloud and turns trails and roads to mud. You'll probably find you spend most of the time indoors with a book while the rain thunders down outside.
Pokhara
Imagine a perfect, snow-capped mountain buffeted by icy Himalayan winds. Imagine a millpond calm lake reflecting the snowy peaks. Now imagine a village on the shore, thronged by travellers and reverberating to the sound of 'Om Mani Padme Hum' wafting from shops selling prayer flags, carpets, masks, singing bowls and CDs of Buddhist mantras. That's Pokhara.
fast facts
Full Name
Pokhara
Area
56 sq km
22 sq miles
Population
171,000
Time Zone
GMT/UTC +5.45 ()
Languages
Nepali (official)
More than a hundred languages are registered as mother tongues in Nepal.
Currency
Nepali Rupee (Rs)
Bodhnath
religious/spiritual
This is Nepal's most famous Buddhist monument, a shimmering white stupa topped by a towering golden spire and watched over by the eyes of the Buddha. Thousands of multi-coloured prayer flags flutter overhead and hordes of pilgrims flock here daily to perform the ceremonial circumnavigation of the shrine.
Bodhnath is one of those places that has a tangible spiritual energy. Tibetan pilgrims come here from across Nepal and some measure out the distance around the stupa with their own bodies, throwing themselves to the ground before the stupa in the ultimate act of ritual prostration. Many of the pilgrims are refugees from Tibet and the surrounding shops are crammed with Tibetan antiques and essential household items for Tibetan Buddhists.
Dakshinkali
religious/spiritual ; macabre
At the southern end of the Kathmandu Valley, in a dark, somewhat spooky location, stands the temple of Dakshinkali. The temple is dedicated to the six-armed goddess Kali, Shiva's consort in her most sanguinary incarnation. Twice a week, Nepalese visitors journey here to satisfy her bloodlust.
They bring buffaloes, chickens, ducks, goats, sheep and pigs, which are matter-of-factly dispatched by having their throats slit or heads lopped off. These animals, some still writhing, are then dragged to a nearby stream where they are butchered for a feast at a later date. The blood runs freely every Saturday and especially during the October festival of Dasain when the image of Kali is literally bathed in the stuff.
Hanuman Dhoka (Old Royal Palace)
castle
The old royal palace is a part of Durbar Square, which remains the traditional heart of the old town and a spectacular example of traditional architecture. The king no longer lives here - the royal family moved to Narayanhiti more than a century ago - and the 1934 earthquake damaged the complex, but it remains a fascinating place to explore.
The western part of the palace, overlooking Durbar Square, is home to an interesting museum that celebrates King Tribhuvan's successful putsch against the Ranas. Wander inside and you get an eerie insight into his life: lots of personal effects, extensive photos and newspaper clippings and magnificent furniture and knick-knackery
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
national park
Tel: 025 530897 (info)
This rarely-visited reserve is a great place to escape the crowds for a few days and do some animal- and bird spotting. Water-bird species outnumber tourists 400:1, and the reserve is home to the last surviving population of wild arna (water buffalo), various deer, nilgai, mugger crocodiles and Gangetic dolphins.
Royal Chitwan National Park
national park
Royal Chitwan National Park provides one of the finest wildlife experiences in Asia. While you'd have to be lucky to see one of the tigers or leopards, an elephant safari is an unforgettable experience and you are almost certain to see rhinos, deer, monkeys and numerous bird species, as well as the jumbo underneath you!
Thursday, November 1, 2007
kumari devi
Not only does Nepal have many gods, goddess, deities, Bodhisattvas (near Buddhas), avatars and manifestations, which are worshipped and revered as statues, images, paintings and symbols, but it also has a real living goddess. The Kumari Devi is a young girl who lives in the building known as the Kumari Ghar, right beside Kathmandu's Durbar Square.
From time immemorial the practice of worshipping an ordinary pre-pubescent girl as a source of supreme power has been an integral
part of both Hinduism and Buddhism, a tradition which continues even to this day virtually in every household. They call this girl Kumari Devi and worship her on all the religious occasions.
The predominance of the Kumari cult is more distinctly evident among the Newar community inside the Kathmandu Valley as she has become an inevitable feature of their worship almost in every Vihar and Bahal and including the nooks and corners of Newari settlements. However, it was the Vajrayana sect of Mahayana Buddhism that was responsible for establishing the tradition of worshipping a girl from the Sakya community as the royal Living Goddess.
The selection of the Living Goddess is a highly elaborate tantric ritual. Upon passing the preliminary test, this is merely concerned with their 32 attributes of perfection, including the colour of her eyes, the shape of her teeth and the sound of her voice. Her horoscope must also be appropriate. The 4 to 7 year poor girls from the Sakya community are made to confront a goddess in the darkened room. The sight of the Buffalo heads scattered around, the demon- like masked dancers, the terrifying noises theyencounter scare some of these innocent babies. The real goddess is unlikely to be frightened, so the one who is calm and collected throughout the tests is the only girl who is entitled to sit on the pedestal for worship as the Living Goddess. Then as a final test similar to that of the Dalai Lama, the Kumari then chooses items of clothing and decoration worn by her predecessor.
The god-house Kumari Ghar is a store-house of magnificent intricate carvings where the Living Goddess performs her daily rituals. During her tenure in the god-house, Guthi Sansthan, the government trust fund bears her entire expenses including that of her caretakers. Under normal circumstances, her days in the god-house come to an end with her first menstruation, but if she turns out to be unlucky, as they say, even a minor scratch on her body that bleeds can make her invalid for worship. She then changes back to the status of normal mortal and the search of a new Kumari begins. It is said to be unlucky to marry an ex-Kumari.
On Indra Jatra, in September, the Living Goddess in all her jeweled splendor travels through the older part of Kathmandu city in a three tiered chariot accompanied by Ganesh and Bhairab each day for three days. It is really a grand gala in which people in their thousands throng in and around the Kathmandu Durbar Square to pay their homage to the Living Goddess. During this festival she also blesses the King in keeping with the tradition in which the first king of the Shah dynasty, who annexed Kathmandu in 1768, received a blessing from the Living Goddess.
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