A Brief History of Nepal

Nepal, a small landlocked country nestled between India and China, was largely closed to Westerners until 1950. The revolution of that year marked the beginning of a new democratic era. However, the monarchy staged a coup in 1960, banning party politics. After enduring 30 years of autocratic rule, Nepalese people rose against the totalitarian regime and established a constitutional monarchy in 1991. The country faced an armed insurgency led by the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) starting in 1996. This decade-long civil war ended with the Comprehensive Peace Agreement in November 2006. Nepal was declared a Federal Democratic Republic in 2008. The next elections for the Constituent Assembly are scheduled for November 2013.

Nepal in Figures

• Area: 147,181 sq. km.
• Location: Between Tibet (north) and India (east, west, south)
• Capital: Kathmandu
• Population: 24 million
• Ethnicity: Predominantly Indo-Aryan with over 102 ethnic groups
• Language: Nepali (national), English (foreign), and 92 other languages
• Religion: Secular state with a majority of Hindus and Buddhists
• Political System: Multiparty democracy (President is the head of state, Prime Minister is the head of government)
• Climate:
  • Spring: March-May
  • Summer: June-August
  • Autumn: September-November
  • Winter: December-February

Major Tourist Attractions in Nepal

Ancient Heritage and Cultural Significance

Nepal is an ancient nation, mentioned in the Hindu Epic Mahabharata, believed to date back to 1300 BCE. With 1500 years of written history, Nepal has never been occupied by foreign powers. It is a melting pot of Hinduism and Buddhism, home to Lumbini (the birthplace of Buddha) and Pashupatinath (one of the most revered Hindu temples).

Nepal boasts over 82 major pilgrimage sites, eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites of cultural significance, and two of natural importance. The country offers unparalleled experiences for white-water rafting, kayaking, mountain expeditions, trekking, paragliding, and bungee jumping. Among its peaks are eight of the world’s fourteen highest mountains, including Mount Everest.

Major Cities and Towns

Kathmandu: The capital city, located in Kathmandu Valley, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Kathmandu Durbar Square, with its ancient palaces, temples, and monuments, is a must-visit.

Nagarkot: A hill station 32 km east of Kathmandu, known for its stunning mountain views and sunrise/sunset panoramas.

Bhaktapur: Located 14 km east of Kathmandu, this ancient city is famous for its Durbar Square, filled with centuries-old temples, monuments, and palaces.

Patan: Also known as Lalitpur (City of Art), Patan is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and exquisite art and architecture.

Mustang: Known for its ancient Tibetan Buddhist rituals, Mustang is a remote plateau near Tibet, offering a unique cultural experience.

Pokhara: A gateway to famous treks like the Annapurna Circuit, Pokhara is known for its beautiful lakes and breathtaking views of the Annapurna mountain range.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

• Cultural Sites:
  • Swayambhunath
  • Bouddhanath
  • Changunarayan Temple
  • Bhaktapur Durbar Square
  • Durbar Square Patan
  • Kathmandu Durbar Square
  • Pashupatinath Temple
  • Lumbini (Birthplace of Buddha)
• Natural Sites:
  • Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park
  • Chitwan National Park

Exploring Nepal’s Temples

Boudhanath: A Buddhist temple in Kathmandu, believed to be over two thousand years old, known for its massive white dome and gilded spire.

Swayambhunath: Also known as the Monkey Temple, this ancient stupa offers stunning views of Kathmandu and is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site.

Pashupatinath: One of the holiest Hindu temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu.

Dakshinkali: A temple dedicated to the Goddess Kali, known for its ritual animal sacrifices, located 19 km south of Kathmandu.

Nepal’s Majestic Himalayas

Everest: The tallest peak on earth, known as Sagarmatha in Nepali and Chomolungma in Tibetan. Everest offers trekking to the base camp and mountaineering expeditions.

Annapurna: A majestic range with numerous trekking routes, including the famous Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp treks.

Major Peaks:

• Everest: 8848 meters
• Kanchanjungha: 8586 meters
• Lhotse: 8516 meters
• Makalu: 8463 meters
• Dhaulagiri I: 8167 meters
• Manaslu: 8163 meters
• Annapurna I: 8091 meters

National Parks and Wildlife

Chitwan National Park: Home to endangered species like the one-horned rhinoceros and Bengal tiger. Offers jungle safaris, elephant rides, and cultural tours.

Bardia National Park: Known for its population of Royal Bengal Tigers and other endangered species. It is considered one of the best places to spot tigers in the wild.

Adventure Activities

Rafting and Kayaking: Nepal’s rivers, originating from the Himalayas, provide perfect conditions for white-water rafting and kayaking. The best seasons are March to early May, June to August, and September to mid-December.

Popular Rivers for Rafting and Kayaking:

• Bheri
• Karnali
• Kaligandaki
• Seti
• Sunkoshi
• Trisuli
• Marsyangdi

Nepal, with its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty, offers an unparalleled experience for travelers. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, trekking through the Himalayas, or rafting down wild rivers, Nepal promises an adventure of a lifetime.