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