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Heritage Sites in Nepal
Palpa, once an independent Magar Kingdom famous for its forges, became a hub in the south for Newars. The famous “Dhaka Topi” was born here amongst the various Dhaka patterns fabricated by the expert weavers of Palpa. It is a destination with facets and has widely contributed to the formation of the Nepali identity.
In ancient times, the ajima’s were regarded the ultimate protectors of the valley. They were strategicallly placed in cardinal points along with military infrastructre to ensure the cities protection from both physcial and supernatural forces. Amongst, the mother goddesses of Kathmandu is Nyata Bhulu Ajiima.
Province 2, also known as Madhesh Province, is a majestic gem. It is home to numerous destinations that have both regional and national importance. The population of this province is southern ethnicities and Madeshi castes. A few highlights of this area are Parsa National Park, Janaki Temple and Gadhimai Temple.
While walking down the narrow allies of Newar dwellings, you might hear the phrase, Bhimsen maharaj ki jaya (Cheers to Lord Bhimsen). His name is invoked by his patrons while lifting heavy weights or before a trading venture. Worshipped by both Hindus and Buddhists, he holds a special place in the pantheon of Newar deities.
The Newar pantheon features a multitude of deities. It is a diverse array of gods and goddesses of both Hinduism and Buddhism. Amongst them is Lord Bhimsen, worshipped by the households with the occupation of trade and commerce. Revered as the god of wealth and physical strength, he also has a festival known as Bhimsen Jatra. How he entered our pantheon is foretold by a legend, something that I, like other Newars, grew up with as a classic bedtime story.
The city of Panauti is an arcane wonder. The roads that lead to it feel like a time tunnel taking the traveller back centuries. The culture, heritage, architecture and traditions of the bygone era still stand tall in this city. Dubbed the last remnant of a traditional Newar township- Panauti is an escape to the past.
A tale that relates to Yog Narendra Malla, a 17th century Malla King who told his people that till the golden bird stays perched atop the serpent head, the elephants remain standing on the stairway, and the Gaurda doesn’t lay pearls as large as hen’s egg. Let his countrymen know that he is alive inside his Royal Palace.
Let’s not go too far and stay close to the capital. Within the Kathmandu Valley, the Patan area is a popular hub for those seeking to admire history, art, and culture. Among the many significant places, there is one such gem just north of the Durbar Square--the Hiranya Varna Mahavihar, or The Golden Temple, as it’s informally called.
7 Things to do while visiting the Bhaktapur Durbar Square in Bhaktapur, Nepal. Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site is the heart of the ancient city of Bhaktapur built with centuries old rich architecture among its bricked temples, palaces and an antique culture in its lively streets.
