“The
Abode of Gods, King of Mountains, Himalaya”
- Kalidasa, 5the century AD
Home
to eight of the world’s ten highest mountains, the
kingdom of Nepal draws an estimated 400,000 visitors annually.
Landlocked between India and Tibet, Nepal contains some
of the world’s most diverse and breathtakingly beautiful
landscapes ranging from the impressive peaks of the Himalayan
chain in the north, high-altitude plains and remote mountain
passes, sub-tropical forests and national parks, terraced
farmland hills and rice paddies, to the fertile plains of
the Terai in the country’s south. The rivers that
bisect the ranges contain alpine waters that swell with
the summer monsoon rains. Some of Nepal’s most famous
rivers offer the best white-water rafting and kayaking experiences
in the world.
Much of the land outside the Kathamandu valley is untouched
by man. Beyond Nepal’s capital are a series of remote
mountain villages scattered throughout the Himalayas. These
villages are sustained by subsistence farming using traditional
farming practices of buffalo-drawn ploughs, hand harvesting
and threshing of grains, and corn ground by water mills.
A land of eternal fascination, ancient history, cultural
richness and diversity as well as pristine countryside,
visitors are captivated not only by its impressive peaks,
lush terrain and superb scenery, but also by its holiness
and spiritual significance. For many centuries, the Himalayas
became renowned as the hiding place for ancient sages to
meditate, and many famous texts on religion, philosophy,
medicine, yoga, literature and mathematics were written
there.
For the Nepalese, Nepal is not only the ‘Abode of
Snow’, but also the abode of the Gods and Goddesses
they worship. Traditional beliefs and rituals are an important
part of Nepalese life. Tourists wanting to experience Nepal’s
spiritual culture can enjoy the many colorful festivals
throughout the year.
To Kalidasa, Nepal is “a northern yardstick to measure
the earth.” Lord Vishnu claims that together with
Brahma and Shiva, he resides in the earth as the Himalayan
Mountains to benefit mankind. To most of us, it is a place
of unquestionable beauty where one visit is rarely enough.
We look forward to sharing our Nepal with you!
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