Telling the epic story of will and strength, Dharahara stands tall with its legacy

Standing tall with an audacity to challenge time and history, Dharahara is an iconic land marvel of time dating back to 1832 AD. Architecturally designed in a post modern style with huge influence of the Mughal and European style, the monument holds a pristine image of craftsmanship and culture.
Constructed by the then Prime Minster Bhimsen Thapa under the supervision of Queen Lalit Tripura Sundari, the tower was specifically constructed for strategic purpose of the Army where its use and operation were exclusively limited for disseminating information and practicing different Army operations. From then it has amortized its presences in history marking the tradition bugles u trumpeting in case of emergency and on special occasions.
The existing Dharahara stands 9 stories, in 50.2 Meters height with spiral stair case running up to the top counting 113 steps from top to bottom. Crowning on top a Shiva-Lingam resides in the 9th floor glorifying the religious and traditional believe. The 8th floor welcomes its visitor with scenic views of the valley where one could observe the modern encroachment of concrete jungle of the Kathmandu valley that amalgamating with the ancient city. The site itself is panoramic where on a clears day one can see the Lang Tang Mountain Range and observe the picturesque scenery to enjoy one’s appetite for natural beauty. Topping the monument, a bronze mast rules in highlighting its beauty, making it ready for a picture perfect shot. It is believed that the Dharahara was constructed using no ordinary construction material rather traditional materials like Vajra - Surki (Brick dust), Chuna (Lime), Mas (Black lentil) and Chaku (Caramel) wore used which holds its strength witness years of its survival and existence.
The current standing Dharahara is the replica of the original Bhimsen Stambha which was build in the name of Queen Lalit Tripura Sundari. The original Dharahara or Bhimsen Stambha was actually built in 1824 and was 11 stories high. After construction of the Bhimsen Stambha, the first Dharahara, the Queen ordered to construct another replica dedicated to her name. The two towers stood tall near a short distance glorifying the traditions and culture, but who knew what faith had stored in for them within the devastating earth quake of 1834, the name and fame of both the Dharahara changed forever. Though both the towers survived, but Bhimsen Stambha suffered severe damage and was in a deprived state due to lack of maintenance and renovation but the January 15, 1934 AD, earthquake completely destroyed the original Bhimsen Stambha bringing it down to just ruins.
Consequently, the replica had suffered less damage and only 2 stories of the 11 stories had survived. Witnessing a distorted image of the prestigious monument, the then Prime Minister Juddha Shumsher, renovated the second Dharahara to its previous form, while the original Bhimsen Stambha was obliterated, thus the queen Lalit Tripura Sundari's tower got its name, Bhimsen Stambha and is standing tall with the name and fame of Bhimsen Stambha.

Amidst a fighting spirit and witnessing chaotic changes in the country, Dharahara stands tall with an epic story to be told to its coming generation where it amortizes time in its beauty with grace and fame.

By Shreedeep Rayamajhi

“KUMARI” The Tradition of Living goddess

Synchronizing the tradition of mysticism and beliefs, Kumari is the realism of abstract practice of worshipping a pre-pubescent girl or Virgin in the most profound way of defining culture. The strong image, beautiful ornaments and the flashy red color, portrays her image where she stands as a powerful symbol of unity, prosperity, peace and health.
Literally meaning the virgin, the Kumari represents a strong symbol of power and culture enslaved in the rich colors of festivity which manifests a variation of tradition in the form of goddess as a KUMARI. Kumari is believed to be the bodily incarnation of the goddess Taleju Bhawani (Shakti) where the image highlights a great presence and acceptance among the scattered communities and people. The ideology of veneration of Kumari as the living goddess dates back to centauries which to this day glorify the rich tradition in fulfilling the centuries old practice of KUMARI.
Like such, the east manifests different traditions, which are abstract and enigmatic to its identity but defines the richness in the most profound way where people beliefs and values passes the normal limits. The rich cultural heritage and the profound beliefs, explores the different possibilities in playing with the colors of traditions and culture giving it the shapes of a montages in chanting the unique colors of life. These cultural aspects promulgate unity in the diversity standing as a focal point of beliefs.
Many stories and myths are surrounded with the origination of Kumari but the popular one goes back to the Malla Dynasty to King Jaya Prakash Malla.
According tot the saying, Telaju Bhanwan was the main deity of the Malla kings, so she was prized with honor and respect in the Malla kingdom, apart from that the one of the Malla kings had pleased the goddess and has granted him a wish to meet him every day. Every day the Malla king use to play Pasa (Dice Game) with the goddess Taleju Bhawani. Though the goddess audience the king every night but the goddess had shadowed her presence with in curtain where she restricted any human to see her and only her voice would stage her presence. One day, the Malla King with in the temptation of seeing the goddess crossed his limits and peeped into the curtain, the Goddess with anger of breaking the promise disappeared. The king called upon all his magicians and priests and consulted them and after hearing their suggestion he worshiped the goddess and made her happy. Then she returned and told the king that, if he wants to see her again or have her protect his country, he'd have to search her among the Newar (Shakya) community, as she would be incarnated as a little girl among them. Hoping to make amends with his patroness, the tradition of Kumari started giving it the form of tradition and festivity. After that, the search of the Kumar started one after the other where girls were selected with specific criteria to fulfill the cultural custom of KUMARI.
The criteria for selection of a Kumari are listed as below:
Ø The candidate must be born in the Buddhists from the Newar Shakya caste
Ø The girl must posses the 32 characters of women from physical to mental for e.g. Skin blemish free, Black hair and eyes, body need to be sturdy, hands and feet dainty, small and well-recessed sexual organs, a set of twenty teeth etc
Ø The candidate’s horoscope must have certain attributes of planets and starts
Ø The candidate must be strong and fearlessness, during the tests. The candidate must withstand an odiferous room of blood and demon-like masked dancers to test her willpower and strength, if the candidate cries or fear the situation she is immediately disqualified
Ø And a series of Tantric rituals and tests will be perform for determining the goddess in the form of a young girl
After the beginning selection process, the selected candidate has to go through many rigorous processes to prove being worth of a Kumari. Her greatest test comes during the Hindu festival of Vijaya Dashami (Dashain). On the eight night day of Dashain, Kalratri, (the night of darkness) 108 buffaloes and goats are sacrificed in honor of goddess Kali. On that day the preferred candidate is taken to the temple and is released into to the Mul Chowk (Courtward). Different tantric procession and tantric dances are performed by masked dancers where her physical and mental strength is tested to the level. As a final test the candidate has to spend a whole night alone in a room with the sacrificed animal heads. If the candidate possesses the qualities of Taleju, she shows no fear and faces the test with confidence but if the candidate shows fear then she is considered to be mortal and is backed out of the contest.
After overcoming these tests, she is announced as the Kumari where she is sent to the Kumari Ghar and resides inside till she evacuates the position. Declared as a Kumari, now she transforms into a goddess where she is considered as holy and each and every word and action that she displays counts. Her feet, like all of her, are now sacred; people will touch them, hoping to receive blessings of long life health and prosperity. She is allowed to do everything from normal activities to play but she is restricted with in the Kumari Ghar. The child will stay in the temple, and will be allowed to return to her family only at the onset of menstruation or if she wounds her self and bleeds. It’s believed that bleeding makes her invalid for worship where the new search begins. The presence and image of Kumari is considered auspicious where people flock in every day to get the glimpse her.
The Kumari Ghar is the palace of the Kumari where she resides in her glorious tradition. The abode in-houses magnificent intricate carvings and great architecture where at time she audiences her arrivals from a window. The Kumari Ghar is well equipped with care takers, priests and other necessary people who serve under the Kumari in assisting her with her daily chores and processions. Guthi Sansthan, a government trust fund bears her entire expenses including that of her caretakers.

Recorded Names of KUMARIof Nepal

Name: Hira Maiya Shakya
Hometown: Wotu
Date of service: 1922-1923

Name: Chini Shova Shakya

Hometown: Lagan

Date of service: 1923-1931

Name: Chandra Devi Shakya

Hometown: Asonchuka

Date of service: 1931-1933

Name: Dil Kumari Shakya

Hometown: Lagan

Date of service: 1933-1942

NameNani: Shova Shakya

Hometown: Ombahal

Date of service: 1942-1949

NameKayo Mayju Shakya

Hometown: Kwahiti

Date of service: 1949-1955

Name: Harsha Laxmi Shakya

Hometown: Naghal

Date of service: 1955-1961

Name: Nani Mayju Shakya

Hometown: Naghal

Date of service: 1961-1969

Name: Sunina Shakya
Hometown: Ombahal

Date of service: 1969-1978

Name: Anita Shakya

Hometown: Sikamoobahal

Date of service: 1978-1984

Name: Rashmila Shakya

Hometown: Kwahiti

Date of service: 1984-1991

Name: Amita Shakya

Hometown: Asanbahal

Date of service: 1991-2001

Name:Preeti Shakya

Hometown: Itumbahal

Date of service: 2001-2008

Name: Matina Shakya

Hometown: Kathmandu

Date of service: 2008-Present

During the festival of Indra Jatra, in the month of September, the Kumari come out in public for the Kumari Jatra where she travel on her jeweled chariot through the older part of Kathmandu city in a three tiered chariot accompanied by Ganesh and Bhairab. Thousand of Kathmanduties throng to Basnatapur durbar square for the festivity which creates a gala of attraction.
Nevertheless, the tradition of the Living Goddess KUMARI is a mystery of religion and enigma which create its own attraction in the most prolific way of giving it the shape and size of cultural icon.
Abstract yet enigmatic in defining the tradition of the east, Kumari is a reality of 21st century that manifests the social ground upholding the holistic image adoring the sharp Red engulf in a strong presence. The Kumari portrays an aura of goddess where she stands as a symbol of power and culture uniting people of Nepal in the most appropriate form of culture.

By Shreedeep Rayamajhi

Everest with new face

The 20th century orchestrated Man’s step in moon as the biggest headline creating a swarm of curiosity over the world; similarly, today in the 21st century a new discovery has amazed people to believe in the existence of the supernatural power and its understanding. Shocking yet admirable, the new discovery of a man and women face on Mt. Everest and Lhotse has created an amazement to see the world’s top most point with a new angle of admiration and anticipation. The abstract creativity of nature synchronizing in shape is a well example of nature’s abundance where Nepal holds the pride of honoring such manifestation of mysticism. Some people say it’s the eight wonder and some say it’s divine but to reality its one of the extreme creation of nature gifted in the form of abstract art which signifies the human relation with nature. Though, people from different caste and creed have their own interpretation and meaning but reality is the image on the Mt. Everest symbolizes the enigma of human existence and survival where the spirituality and divinity comes to the level of seeing in shape of amazement. The new discovery was made by Mike Wickham who believed his discovery not to be coincidental but with a purpose. He interprets the image as of an eye opened man in deep solitude and veneration facing upwards to the sky who when reversed transforms and shows the feminine form. Mike is a US citizen who resides from Maryland. In 2007, he had visited Mt. Everest and had taken some photos. On returning to states, he studies these photos and made a startling discovery of the impression of male’s and women’s image on Mt. Everest and Lhotse. According to mike, “Since man’s conscious first registered the presence of a supreme being, the race was on to find its source. The christen quest for the Holy Grail is a fine example. From ancient time believers in the absolute have wandered where the connection between man and god might exist. To amazement, the answer was hidden with us but we neglected it. These figures are widely historical and make the Everest area the world’s greatest natural sacred wonder. The mythical Holy Grail has been found. This is the proof of the spiritual bridge many on earth have waited ages to see. These figures are balanced motion of love and devotion.” Adding more “This is the natural existence of Adam and Eve. Likewise, looking at the image the face is relevant in Mt.Lhotse but protruding from his chest is an exposed heart, Mt Everest, the highest point on earth and the closest point to the heaven above. When we combine the feminine form of creation with the masculine form of will, we then create the heart of mankind that is Mt Everest. These figures are widely historical and make this Saragmatha area the world’s greatest natural sacred wonder. The mythical holly grail has been found. This is proof of the spiritual bridge many on earth have waited ages to see. These figures are the balanced motion of love and devotion.” Looking at the prospects, he said, “Nepal should cater itself as the destination of spiritual land which has such shapes of artistic work where god had created an earthly canvas on which lays the physical proof of man’s connection to his higher form. Perhaps, the heist point on earth really signifies the connection of man with god and what ever you name it; it’s the symbol of unity and peace. ” (The discovered can be contacted at downuner1@yahoo.com)
By Shreedeep Rayamajhi

Yeti: Myth or reality!!!

Yeti is a mystery which lies hidden in the depth of time, amortizing modern technology in its legacy of stories and lore’s. Moreover, with the propagandas surrounding its presence of a furred humanoid image, the yeti still excites people in luring them to the far ends of the Himalayan region of Nepal and Tibet. The existence of this nature’s illusion has been controversial as well as mysterious where it has established itself as a popular icon. The controversies over existence of Yeti are warming the industry with various vague encounters and evidences brought back from the sites of remote alpine villages.Recently, on October 20, 2008, a team of seven Japanese adventurers photographed footprints of Yeti. Yoshiteru Takahashi, the team leader of the expedition and the Yeti Project Japan, said, “ The footprints were about 20 centimeters (eight inches) long and looked like human’s foot print. We are convinced; it was real, as we saw it walking on two legs like a human and was about 150 centimeters tall.” Takahashi claims to have observed Yeti on a 2003 expedition and is determined to capture the creature on film.Following the trend, in early November 2007, Joshua Gates an American television presenter and his team reported finding a series of footprints in the Everest region of Nepal claming it to be of Yeti. The footprints measured 33 cm (13 in) in length with five toes that measured a total of 25 cm (9.8 in) across. Dr. Jeffrey Meldrum, of Idaho State University examined the footprints who asserted it to be morphologically accurate to be fake or man made. Meldrum also stated that they were very similar to a pair of Bigfoot foot prints that were found in another area.In the year 1986 renowned mountaineer Reinhold Messner claimed to have a face-to-face encounter with a Yeti and in his book “My Quest for the Yeti” have actually claimed to kill one. According to Messner, the Yeti is actually an endangered Himalayan Brown Bear that can walk upright.Similarly, in 1984, famous mountaineer David P. Sheppard of Hoboken, New Jersey, claimed to have been followed by a large furry man over the course of several days while he was near the southern Col of Everest. His Sherpas, however, say they saw no such thing. Sheppard claims to have taken a photograph of the creature, but a later study of it proved inconclusive.Don Whillans a British mountaineer also claimed to have witnessed a creature while scaling Annapurna in 1970. He had seen a dark shaped creature moving near his camp and the next day, he observed a few human-like footprints in the snow. On the same evening, he had also viewed a bipedal, ape-like creature from his binoculars at a distance.In 1953, Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay reported seeing large footprints while scaling Mount Everest where Tenzing has mentioned about the encounter of yeti in his first autobiography.In 1925, N. A. Tombazi, a photographer and member of the Royal Geographical Society, encountered yeti near Zemu Glacier. Tombazi later wrote that he observed the creature from about 180 to 270 M while descended the mountain and saw the creature’s foot prints. He described it as similar in shape to those of a man, but only six to seven inches long by four inches wide.Analyzing the series, the 1889 foot print discovery is one of the oldest link in the trail of yeti encounter. L. A. Waddell reported his guide's describing a large ape like creature moving in the dark where its existence remains hidden and controversial.Ang Tshering Sherpa, President of UAAA said, “Yeti is a mysterious creature which has kept its existence hidden for years. To be precise the word Yeti comes from the word meti which means human eating creature. Though, it is believed to be a mystery but in reality for people who live in the region, they have reasons to believe of its existence. When we were young, we use to hear a lot of lore’s and stories of yeti. It’s true that there is an unknown creature hidden in the laps of the Himalayan where it’s completely mysterious and may be that is the reason why its so popular around the world.”“It can be capitalized in a proper way to benefit the industry and country where it has not been channelized. At first we need to conduct a thorough research about its existence. It’s both cultural as well as scientifically important where it can have a huge financial and scientific benefit for the country,” added he.He further suggested, “If we could use yeti as the brand for the Nepal Tourism Year 2011 then it would have immense result as yeti is world known and capitalizing its popularity can benefit the country and campaign.”Contemplating the image, the ethnic Tibetans fear and worship bear as a supernatural being where its lore’s and myth acclimatized the local in developing yeti as a cultural Icon. Whether you call it Bigfoot or yeti or Abominable Snowman, the yeti endures an image of enigma which isolates itself in the hidden valleys with in legacy of its mystery.Jyoti Adhikari, President of Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) said, “Yeti is a mystery which lies hidden in the depth of remote areas where its existence survives in just lore’s and stories. Every year numerous propagandas are created with yeti but it’s very controversial to predict its existence as still today we lack proper evidence. On contrary, if it’s true then it should be left alone. Furthermore, it should not be bothered as it’s a creature of its kind where leaving it in isolation seems wise. Besides, Nepal is known in the world for Mountain Everest not yeti. There are only handful number of people who come in quest of yeti so intruding such a mythical creature can bring difficult situation which needs to be understood.”Yeti has evolved itself as a new marketing and promotion tool which has been drawing scientists, researchers, adventure enthusiasts etc to Nepal.Yadav Khanal, General Secretary of Nepal Association of Tour Operators (NATO) said, “Yeti is a mystery which lies hidden in the laps of Himalaya where its existence is unknown and mysterious. The government certainly needs to put an effort to know more about its existence where a definite research needs to be done at a professional level.Today’s marketing is about good promotion and if we could use Yeti as an effective means then we can certainly attract more tourists.”

By Shreedeep Rayamajhi

An Introduction to Hanumandhoka Durbar Square

Built in the mid Sixteen century, Hanuman Dhoka is a pristine ample craftsmanship of the rich tradition and culture of the Malla Dynasty. From the prolific craftsmanship of the Mallas to the later added Western European influence by the Ranas, the Durbar Square hold a special amalgamation of the east meets the west.
Moving on from centuries, it has seen the rise and fall of many Kings from Mallas to the recent Shahs witnessing their glory of fame and pride. Registered to the world heritage site, this palace stands testament to the glorious tradition of Kingship in Nepal. With several complexes connected together spreading in about five acres explicates historical and traditional values; the Hanuman Dhoka Durbar square is a live example of the rich culture and tradition.
The durbar Square has ten courtyards flourishing with statues and artifacts enthrall the vision where one gets nostalgic towards this museum of time. The palace was once residence of the Shahs till the late seventies, when the royal residence shifted to the Narayanhiti Palace. The old palace still has its ritual and ceremonial importance where the King of Nepal were crowned and their coronation ceremonies would take place here.
Starting off from the east entrance, a big statue of Hanuman (Monkey god) welcomes you inside; it is believed that King Pratap Malla had set-up the statue there to scare away bad and evil spirits from his palace. It dates back to the 1672. Moving on to the lobby, a half-man, half-lion incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Narasimha Avatar appears on the left side of the lobby. The statue is carved in a big black stone where the craftsmanship clearly highlights the prolific style of the Malla dynasty. The statue portrays the Narshimha Avatar killing the Herainyakasyapu the demon who threaded the world with his evil and outcaste the practice of the religion.
Similarly, with the pride of royalty, a big inscription lies just in front of the palace. The inscription is laid on a stone in 15 different languages by King Pratap Malla in the glory of his regime.
Nasal Chowk
Literally meaning the Dancing courtyard, the Nasal Chowk or Courtyard is dedicated to lord Shiva where a big status of the Natraj is placed on the east side of the courtyard. The courtyard was build by the Malla kings where once it use to serve as their private residence of the then kings but in the transcending flow of time, it was further recaptured and portions were added to the current state by the powerful Ranas where the western influences can be widely seen. In the open veranda faming the pride, still lays the throne of the Malla kings which orchestrates the richness and power of the wide spectrum of their regime.
Highlighting the famous Basantapur Tower at its door step, the Nasal Chowk welcomes the arrivals with its glorious craftsmanship and tradition where the carved windows and doors simply wow in plethora of the craftsmanship. From the tower you can see the 360 view of the Kathmandu in the most profound way where the beautiful mountain range adds colors to the view. Apart from that, the stringent taste of exotic and erotic carvings with in the struts on the façade, one can feel the rich influence of the great Kama sutra. It is believed that the Malla kings use to see the city below from the towers where these towers served as a medium of observatory.
The courtyard has witnessed the rise and fall of many kings where the courtyard is live testimony to the coronation ceremony of the King s of Nepal. In this quest the Late King Birendra and the last king of Shah Dynasty King Gynandra were both crowed king here in this courtyard.
Mul Chowk
Dedicated to the Taleju Bhawani, the Mul Chowk or courtyard holds a special enigma to its presence. Located in isolation with minimal rituals happening in the courtyard is open only in specially occasion and festivals for ritual and tantric ceremonies. With in the periphery is located a two storey Pagoda style temple which holds mystery to its origin where history defines it as an enigma of Hinduism.
The goddess Taleju was the main deity of the royal Malla family where after centuries’ she still holds a strong presence among kathmanduties.
Especially in the ninth day of Dashain the Mul chowk gets lively where the priest sacrifice 108 animals in fulfill the century’s old tantric ritual. On that particular day the temple is opened for general public and it is believed that on that particular night the goddess, she comes down in the temple and endowed her presence. The temple is located at a height where it can be view from most parts of the Kathmandu.
Mohan Chowk
Built in 1649 by the Malla Kings, the Mohan Chowk or courtyard has a significant role in the history of Malla dynasty. More or less it was related to royalty and was closely associated with the Malla kings. It is believe that to become a Malla king you needed to be born in the Mohan Chowk which testifies its glory during those days. In the middle of the Courtyard lies a golden waterspout which in the ancient days was used by the Malla kings for their daily dip. Beautiful artistic tower are located in the four corners of the courtyard. Currently the Mohan Chowk is out of display.

Tribhuwan Museum
Example of the western architect, this portion of the durbar square was build by the Ranas in the 19th centuries. The Tribhuwan Museum is an explanatory example of the time and royalty that witnessed the various aspects of art, craft, technology, fashion and other amenities of the country that highlighted royalty and their lifestyle. It strongly exhibits items of stone carvings, several spectacular thrones, Jewel-studded ornaments used for coronations, weapons, furniture, wooden temple carvings, and coin collections.
With highlighting the glorious life style of the King’s of Nepal an exact replica of King Tibhuvan bedroom is also on display. Dedicated to the King Mahendra a small section on the southeast corner highlights the two thrones of the King.
The Hanuman Durbar Square is a exemplary audience that has witness the past in a glorious tradition showcasing and transcending the pride, honor and culture of the country where it stand tall with the pride of craftsmanship and culture in the most profound way of a time’s kaleidoscope.

By Shreedeep Rayamajhi

Narayanhity Museum

Established with in the shadows of royalty, the Narayanhity Palace or museum has long served as the residence for the kings of Shah Dynasty. The palace or museum was built 40 years back with a rigorous construction of six years. On June 1, 2001, the then King Birendra and his whole family were massacred in the palace compound, along with 6 others royal family members. The Constituent Assembly on May 28, 2009 had decided to convert the Narayanhity palace into a public museum. The palace spreads in 753 ropanies (more than 4 million square feet). The museum occupies only 318 ropnies with 54 rooms where only 19 have been made accessible to the public. Similarly, the abode also shares the space with Nepal’s Foreign Ministry and Security bodies. The main attraction of the museum is the golden and silver Ceremonial throne, Banquette hall and other vivid items used by the royal family. The museum would open five days a week except on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and public Holidays from 11 AM to 3 PM. Likewise, the entrance fee for the Narayanhity Museum has been allocated as followed: Nepali Student Nrs 20, Other Nepalese Nrs 100, Chinese and SAARC Tourist Nrs 250, other tourist Nrs 500 and fee has been leaved for children below 3 years of age.
By Shreedeep Rayamajhi

Bouddha Nath Stupa

With the reputation of the biggest Stupa in Nepal, the Bouddhanath Stupa, is the most holy site for Buddhist faith. Located within 7KM east of the capital, the Stupa, is also know as the Khasti Chitya. The Stupa is 100M in diameter and 40M height where it holds its place among the largest Stupas in the world. It has a round path at the bottom while another path is made of three-tier plinth. The Stupa resembles Swoyambhunath Stupa to some extent. The most impressive part of the Stupa is the eyes of the Buddha which are painted with red, white and blue colors.
Prayer flag are draped from the top of the monument and fly in the breeze to spread the message of peace that flows with in the rooftops of the congested urban neighborhood.
Tourists are charged a modest fee to enter the front gate and to join the clockwise procession at the base of the Stupa.
The Stupa holds a special position in the culture and tradition of the valley while during the seasonal festivals it is lined with lamps and there are special parades and ceremonies performed by the devotees.
The Bouddhanath is architecturally built with greater efficacy which was not touched by the destructive earthquake of 1934 where now it holds a special position in the UNESCO world heritage sites.
By Shreedeep Rayamajhi

Swayambhu

Located on the top of the hill with watching eyes of Buddha, Swayambhu is believed to have self originated or created centauries ago. According to the legends of Manjushree, it’s said that the whole valley was covered under waters of a vast lake in a territory that was once home to nagas. Manjushree arrived here and with his sword drain the lake that once filled the Valley, and miraculous a lotus flower originated. The people then cam in and resided in the valley, which was later, called Kathmandu Valley.
The lotus, was known as the impart enlightenment to the worshipers, many saints, pilgrims, divinities who traveled from far places. The lotus was converted into a hill and the Swayambhu temple lies on top of the hill. The light, which the flower radiated, became the Swayambhu Stupa.
The Swayambhu welcomes you with its 365 stairs leading up to the temple. With big colorful Buddha statues and large wheels of prayers highlights the richness of its tradition. Welcoming all, a statue of Lord Buddha, a vajra and two lion statues placed at the very front of the towering Stupa.
The Stupa has four sides and on each of the sides, a pair of eyes has been carved which symbolizes the eyes of Lord Buddha watching and evaluating the karmas of the people. In place of the nose, number 1 in Nepali language has been marked. Another popular name of the Swayambhu Stupa is Monkey Temple.

By Shreedeep Rayamajhi

Pashupatinath Temple

Known as the Epic Center for Hindus around the world, Pashupatinath Temple stands as a symbol of faith, religion, culture and tradition. With a history dating back to 400 AD, Pashupatinath temple is considered as one of the oldest temples in the Asia. The temple is built in pagoda style with two levels of copper and gold roof. It has four main doors, all covered with silver sheets. The western door has a statue of large bull or Nandi, again covered in gold. The main deity is made up of black stones standing tall about 6 feet in height and the same in circumference.
Apart from the cultural heritage, the Pashupatinath temple also orchestrates the cremation process of the death bodies of deceased Hindus in a rich cultural and traditional way. The scene itself attracts foreigners and tourists who early wait and watch the process of the abstract Hindu culture.
More or less the temple is flocked by people during the Shivaratri when Hindus all over the world gather here to celebrate the birth day of lord Shiva.
By Shreedeep Rayamajhi

Nagarkot

Nagarkot has established itself as an international tourist destination with spectacular views of the world famous Langtang range, sunrise on the mountains and sunset views. We can see the panoramic views of the captivating landscapes and hills that surround the Kathmandu valley. In Nagarkot, You can feel the breeze in the bliss of nature where the mountains smiles in different colors of gold and silver.
It is renowned for its sunrise view of the Himalayan range including Mount Everest especially where people flock here during the celebration of New Year.
With hotel, lodges and resorts mushrooming-in, Naragkot has simply adapted itself to the preference of its arrivals.
By Shreedeep Rayamajhi

Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square

Adorning the prestige of royalty and cultural heritage, the Hanuman Dhoka Palace is the symbol of past glory of the Malla kings, passed on for centauries. The pristine palace has seen the rise and fall of many kings from Mallas to the recent Shahs.
With several complexes connected together spreading in about five acres explicates the rich art and craft of that time. It has ten courtyards flourishing with the statues and artifacts of the time. King Pratap Malla enlarged the original building in the 17th century, adding many of the temples. The oldest part of the palace is Sundari Chowk and Mohan Chowk in the north part of the palace, which are both closed. In 1768, after Prithvi Narayan Shah took over the valley he built four lookout towers in the southeast part of the palace.
The palace was residence of the Shah dynasty until 1886, when the royal residence was moved to the Narayanhiti Palace. The old palace still has its ritual and ceremonial importance where the King of Nepal were crowned and their ceremonies would take place here.
The entrance is on the west side of the palace. Open daily except Tuesday, 10.30 am to 3 pm, 4 pm in the summer; Friday 10.30 am to 2 pm. Admission Rs 250.
The Durbar square holds places like Nasal Chowk, Panch Mukhi Hanuman Temple, Basantapur Tower, Mul Chowk, Taleju Temple etc which are very famous among tourist and arrivals
By Shreedeep Rayamajhi

Buddha’s 2553th Birthday celebrated in his Home land Nepal.

Kathmandu, Nepal 9 May 2009: Buddha “The light of Asia” and “The symbol of peace” became 2553 years old where his birth day was celebrated with different program in and around the valley by Buddhists and his followers.The celebration program included various march up programs, concerts dedicated to peace etc where millions of Buddhists and his followers participated the programs.It is believed that Siddhartha Gautam (Buddha) was born in Kapilvastu (Lumbini), then a Shakya Kingdom which now falls in Nepal from King Suddhodana and Queen Maya Devi. The boy at his early age had an aura and charismatic personality. At an early age of 29, after the birth of his son Rahula, he encountered the reality of hunger, sickness, ageness, suffering and death etc which made him flee away from his lavish life of royalty in search of wisdom and enlightenment.Later, he was enlightened in Bodhi Gaya, India where he became Buddha. Every year according to the Bikram Sambath Sukla Pachhya Baishakh Purnima Buddha birth day is celebrated in and around the world highlighting the message of Peace. The Day is also recognized by United Nations in presence of his contribution to mankind.Gautam Buddha was born on a full moon day and he died on full moon day.Hari Man Shakya a Buddhist in a rally said, “We celebrate his birth day to highlight his achievements and to adapt that every year we spread out in the streets of Kathmandu to spread the message of peace. He was a human and later he became a god by his strong will and determination, that courage and strength is what we need to understand and adapt in our life. Today people are more busy in fighting and violence creating a menace and we want to spread this message that thousand of years ago a man was born who accepted the challenge of finding the truth or reality of life and later he enlightened the world with his message of peace.”(Reference: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddha)

By Shreedeep Rayamajhi

My Nepal, the real Nepal

Located in the laps of Himalayas with the mist and glory of Buddha and Everest, Nepal stand still traversed among the vibrant Terrain where life seek an enchanting experience of adventure and exhilaration. As said by a writer “the earth is full of beauty but it makes the place more beautiful with the appreciating people”. Similarly, with in its periphery, the land enchants a peace and spirituality among the diverse community playing with the colors of feeling and emoting where life is abide by the tradition and custom so vivid that orchestrates to mesmerizes one's memory with distinct color of imagination and motivates oneself in exploring one's identity. The contract of serene and secluded environment showcases the past glory evoking the humble people in welcome its arrival with open arms.Just feel free to be yourself and the country will adapt you in the most profound way. And that’s the beauty of Nepal !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Shreedeep Rayamajhi

Nepal Tourism Year 2011 AD a Controversial Campaign

After the dawn of republican, the new coalition government has declared Year 2011 AD as the "Nepal Tourism Year". Though, its sound very active and progressive but in a under -developed country like our where development lies at the stake of grants and loans , the question of implementing such a big campaign at the risk of past experience is question that haunts the tourism experts and policies makers. Just looking back to past campaigns like Visit Nepal 98, Destination Nepal 2002 and other campaigns the result have not been that lucrative, perhaps if look at the normal growth rate then it’s quite exciting showcasing an increase of around 30 percent in the arrivals rate every year. So why waste extra effort and money designing a new campaign when we can use the same money to improve the quality and make the present better.Just look at the Naturally Nepal once is not enough campaign (2006). It was made by the Alchemy an Indian company at the cost of Nrs 100 Million but if u considered its money value and return then, its very complex and controversial.Likewise, if daily necessities of proper management of Traffic, customer services in regards from the time of arrival to departure, security, sufficient numbers of information centers are prioritized in the tourism policies and industry then the arrivals coming to Nepal would get more out of it rather then a new campaign which would list a program schedule hosting various programs at sites and create controversial situations about its implementation. However, the image of new campaign seems too imaginary when we are not able to quantify the needs of the arrivals coming here at present. Everyday tourists are harassed in hubs and centers both physically and verbally where the local tourism stands in the sole efforts of individual marketing.Now, looking back to the new campaign, the new campaign aims to welcome, a million tourists in a year. The question here is not about development, growth and progress, the question here is about providing sufficient services and accommodations to the arrivals where they would comfort in. New Nepal perhaps means showcasing big dreams and hopes where the vitality and reality goes miles away. The need of time is not a new Nepal but consequently a better Nepal with better leaders who have vision not just dreams and hopes to lure the diffused public.“It just takes a spark to burn but when it burn it engulfs the whole” so these word perfectly display the types of people we need rather than people who shallow their word in playing the usual games of power and policy.

By Shreedeep Rayamajhi

Nepal the Real pic

Nepal My Nepal

With the splendid Tradition and culture and warm hand greeting Namaste is how I define my Nepal.
In my Nepal everything is beautiful from the lust forest to high pristine hills to Virgin Mountain to unexplored valleys, its beyond once experience where words defy their limitation. It's an enchanting experience of nature that drives your enthusiasm to see the real taste of nature in its every bliss.
From its one corner to another, Nepal is blessed with the best bio diversity and houses some of the rarest animals and plants in its vicinity.
Mostly, with the evolving adventure sport like Bunjey Jumping, Paragliding, Canyoning, White Water River Rafting, Rock climbing, Mountain Biking, Para Jumping, Mountaineering etc Nepal offers its best to its arrivals with what nature has to offer.
We Nepalese are very civilized people who believe in Tradition of hospitality. Our ancestors have set the pride of making this nation under the regime of no other country. Our KHUKARIS and our Madal are the live testimonials of what we are and what we can do at times of need.

Whether it’s Yeti or Gautam Buddha all have added shine to the prestige of Nepal’s Image where every Nepali feels proud to hold the Pride of Nepal and its Image.

Jay Nepal

By Shreedeep Rayamajhi