Museums in the Kathmandu Valley - Part 2
The Kathmandu Valley is an ancient city, parts of which are still left to be studied. It is abundant of stories and artefacts from decades and centuries ago, waiting to be told. The museums of the valley do exactly that; giving a sensation of reflecting and reliving the history through details and artefacts that come from its history.
Hanuman Dhoka Museum
The Hanuman Dhoka palace was built during the Licchavi period, around the 4th to 8th century, and it was expanded in the 17th century by king Pratap Malla. The main palace was constructed during the Malla period, and the rest of it was later constructed by the Ranas.
Surviving through the earthquake of 1934 and 2015, after multiple reconstructions, today, it stands tall with the integrity of its history and is now turned into Hanuman Dhoka Museum. In the entrance, a more than three hundred years old statue of Hanuman is situated as a symbol of protection. The main courtyard after the entrance of the museum is Nasal Chowk. This extravagant area used to be the place that held coronations for the former Kings. With that, the Narsingha Statue, the statue of Lord Vishnu in its man-lion form is located that was built by King Pratap Malla in 1673. In the Galleries of the museum lies the age-old objects and artefacts from the Licchavi dynasty to the Malla dynasty to the Shah dynasty. It is situated in the heart of the Kathmandu Durbar Square in Kathmandu Valley.
Bhaktapur Museum
The ancient city of Bhaktapur is built with centuries-old rich architecture among its bricked temples, palaces and is home to three museums, out of which the National Museum is one of the most significant museums in the valley.
Tucked in between two serene statues of lions, The National art museum was opened, formally as a palace, in 1980 by King Bhupatindra Malla. Later, in 1960, it was set up as the National art gallery by the Government of Nepal. For centuries, this palace, now a museum, has been the hub for medieval and Licchavi art and history. This tiny haven of wonders, although covering a small area, encompasses the collection of manuscripts and chronicles coming from the 11th century. It also holds on to ancient paubha paintings, Hindu versions of Thangka paintings along with classic paintings of deities, gods, and goddesses surviving the age of time. The gallery is also lined up with portraits of all the Shah Kings until the end of the monarchy. This museum is located at the west entrance of the Bhaktapur Durbar Square in Kathmandu Valley.
National Museum
Once known as ‘Chhauni Silkhana’ meaning ‘the stone house of arms and ammunitions’, was established in 1928. The National Museum or the Chhauni Museum is one of the most popular museums of the country that has been a major attraction to re-living through the incidents and artefacts of the wider history.
The courtyard of the building once was used as a space to worship and perform rituals during the time of Dashain as a symbol of purity. The starting attraction of the museum is the historical artworks in the form of sculptures, murals, and paintings that are out up in the gallery.
Different weapons used in the wars of the 18th to 19th century are also displayed. This museum also safeguards natural historical artefacts of different animals, reptiles, and insect species as well. Not only that, but this museum is also the home to moon rocks collected from the moon, the mandibular bones of the whale that is the largest mammal in the world, a fossil of reptiles from the Jurassic period, and many more. It stands as a symbol of national history and artefacts, showcasing astonishing objects and moments of a different time.This museum is located in Chhauni, Kathmandu Valley.
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Museums in the Kathmandu Valley - Part 1
Museums are the storytellers of history. They don’t just tell the stories through written and recorded but make a home for details of various arts, antiquities and remains of a bygone era. The Kathmandu valley is home many of these beautiful spaces which house the lineage and history of this nation.
The general public over the years has lost interest in museums. Its sad to see how these structures that house the lineage and history of the nation and its people is forsaken. But, they play a crucial role in protecting and conserving the remains of the past. In Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, there are numerous museums which help bring to the people the true beauty of the nation.
Narayanhiti Palace Museum
The modern Naryanhiti Palace was established by King Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah in 1963 AD. The old palace featuring baroque architecture was commissioned by Prime Minister Bir Shumsher. After its completion, the residence was moved to Naraynhiti from Hanuman Dhoka.
Today, in the remembrance of the lives of the Royal Family, the palace has been turned into a museum that safeguards valuable items and artefacts under the serene semi-modern Nepalese architecture surviving through the decades. It stands as an image of the Royal families. The rooms in the palace museum feature names derived from the various districts of Nepal. It is also the home of the Royal Crown. The museum portrays how the royal family spent their daily lives in each room, from where they dined together and celebrated events. Today, it has become a place of exploring the mystery of the Royal Massacre with the bullet scars and bloodstains still remaining. The palace museum is located in Durbarmarg, Kathmandu.
Jyapu Museum
Jyapu Museum offers a journey through the history of the Jyapu community, their lifestyles, and artefacts all the way from the Kirat and Licchavi dynasty to the present times. It was established by the local Jyapu Community of Patan in 2012 to nurture and preserve the stories of their ancestors for the present and future generations. Jyapus are known for their hard work as farmers, musicians, and artists.
The museum starts with a portrayal of the ancient lifestyle through clay utensils and artefacts of Jyapu culture. It follows through the periods in chronological order, showcasing household objects and modes of presenting the art from the time of their ancestors. Today it serves as a symbol of their hard work and integrity. From traditional handlooms and water vessels to more than fifty ancient Newari musical instruments that used to be played in the ceremony, this museum stands as a reflection and resonation of the history built by this community. It is located amid the Jyapu community settlement in Patan, Lalitpur.
It all together combines the intricacies that make up the Jyapu community who are credited as the true native inhabitants of this valley. The space also doubles as the head quarter for Jyapu Samaj, an organization created for the upliftment of the Jyapu community.
Patan Museum
The Patan Durbar, built-in 1734, used to be one of the royal palaces of the former Malla king of the Kathmandu Valley. However, its origin is believed to go as old as the Licchavi Period. After multiple renovations and restoration of the ancient glory, Patan Museum opened in 1997 to safeguard the culture and artefacts preserved through centuries. Historians and archaeologists believe that the main structure during ancient times was part of a monastery which was then converted into the residence for the monarchs during the Lichhavi Era.
The Lichhavi development structure always features the concept of the divine centre. Patan, one of the most ancient cities of the valley features the same style with the royal palace right at its heart. Today it houses unique antiquities of the Newar culture, especially of Lalitpur and presents them in an organized manner for the public. The square of Patan Dubar is credited as an open air museum due to the high significance of its various temples and monuments.
It is constructed with a blend of ancient and modern architecture. The rooms are built of timber wood and brick, and the carefully preserved artefacts are lined up in the room. It protects ancient artefacts ranging from paintings, weapons, and musical instruments to costumes, statues, and weapons. It is situated inside Patan Durbar Square, and it takes about 2 hours to take a breath into its wonders.
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The Legend of Bhimsen - Part II
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.
Continued…
The king was impressed with the artist's creation and gave his approval. It was brought to the hall of the temple for the installation ceremony by the priests. During the installation process, the king personally paid a visit. He wished to bask under the aura of the triumphant statue.
The priests initiated the ritual process to bring life into it. He began chanting spells and bestowed many offerings to Bhimsen. To demonstrate his tantric capacity, the priest inserted a piece of cotton inside its nostrils. To the surprise of all, the idol sneezed thrice. During this process, light emanated from the idols nostrils, concluded that it had come to life.
The king was astounded seeing this magnificent feat. He quickly took off a ring of nine jewels from his right hand and presented it to his guardian deity. From this point on, the square opposite the temple was renamed tuyulako by the people, meaning a place blessed by Bhimsen light.
The people of Lalitpur amongst all the Newar dominions worship Bhimsen the most.
He is revered as the god of wealth and prosperity by them. Households engaged in trade and commerce regard him as their patron saint.
Bhimsen his strength and fierceness are desired by all. Children chant, I want to be like Bhimsen; strong and mighty.
In Lalitpur, we have two festivals dedicated to Bhimsen; Bhin dyo Puja and Bhimsen Jatra. The first is a linear procession that features devotees clad in traditional attire. They circumvent the city and offer their prayers to the numerous temples dedicated to him. It is celebrated annually in the month of Magh (January-February).
The second festival, Bhimsen Jatra, is celebrated with great pop and flare. On the ninth day of Bhadras (August- September) dark moon, a gilded chariot is placed on the dabbali (raised platform) in front of the temple by devotees.
Thousands of devotees wait to witness a procession that makes a designated route around the city. The temple priest ventures onto the upper floor of the temple to take a replica idol of Bhimsen. Legend has it that it is full of many replicas. A statue automatically comes forward while the priest enters the room.
He then gently brings it down onto the second floor and performs an invoking ritual. It is then taken outside the temple by him, and a loud cheer follows. The revellers make ready the chariot, and the idol is placed onto it by the priest. The revellers chant Bhimsen maharaj ki jaya as they lift the heavy chariot. Musical ensembles provide tunes of encouragement, and the procession moves forward. Patrons holding incenses lead the parade.
The prescribed route is within the old city. It makes its way through narrow allies and stops time and again due to an overhead maze of wires. Revellers take turns to lift the chariot, and the festival ends almost at midnight after it completes its circular route.
It is then rested in front of the temple by the revellers. The priest carries the idol back into the temple. The festival is then drawn to a close. The revellers complain of aching shoulders but tell tales of a glorious night the next day.
This festival is the hallmark of Newari culture, the Newars credit Bhimsen for their blessed fortunes. Newars dominated branches of the silk route and became renowned traders and merchants.
The farming community worships Karunamaya (Rato Matysendranath) and the merchants, Bhimsen. These two living deities who attained divinity through their compassion, strength and grace hold a special place in the heart of all Newars. The temple sustained damage during the 2015 earthquake. The restoration was completed recently with the help of patrons and agencies.
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The Legend of Bimsen - Part I
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.
In the square of Patan Durbar lies a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Bhimsen. In Newari, he is called Bhin Dyo. He (Lord Bhimsen) is one of the five Pandava brothers of the epic Mahabharata. Amongst them, he is the only one worshipped as people believe he alone attained divinity.
He was an extraordinary child with great strength and bravery. Hence he was named Bhimsen, meaning terrific. During his youth, he was famous for two things: his brute strength and a large appetite. Reaching adulthood, he grew a robust moustache, one to match his terrific and fierce outlook.
The highlight of his life was a great battle fought against Dushasana, his rival. He (Dushasana) was one of the Kauravas who dragged Draupadi. She was the common wife of the Pandavas. During an event, Draupadi was pulled by her hair and stripped naked right before her husbands. Bhimsen was consumed with rage but was helpless. He upheld the code of honour but marked Dushasana and vowed to kill him.
During the great war of Kurukshetra, he killed Dushasana with one blow from his mace.
In a land, east of Kathmandu valley lies Dolakha. Here it is believed the Pandavas spent their twelve years of exile. It is also home to a unique temple dedicated to Bhimsen. In the centre of this temple is a triangular shaped stone idol of Bhimsen. The local people worship it as an idol. The temples uniqueness comes from its ability to foretell danger.
The idol perspires from time to time, and it symbolises a bad omen for the country. The locals believe that it is Bhimsen trying to protect his people by warning them through sweating. The idol is said to have sweated in:
1. 2007 B.S: When the Rana Regime ended
2. 1934 A.D: Before the great earthquake
3. 2001 A.D: A few days before the royal massacre
In an ancient time, a lady of Dolakha was married to the prince of Lalitpur. She brought with her a clay idol of Bhimsen as dowry. It depicted him engaged in battle with Dushasana. The figure was enshrined in a small temple by them.
The temple was restored after a fire in the 17th century by King Sri Nivas Malla. He raised it to 4 storeys high and placed three roofs.
After the death of Sri Navas Malla, his son Yog Narendra Malla became King. He desired to replace the clay idol with a metal one. He paid a visit to the workshop of a renowned artist and put forth his request. This craftsman was known for being the best in metal casting and modelling. The King envisioned a magnificent statue of Bhimsen stance in a fighting pose against his rival.
The artist began work, and within a few days, he prepared a handsome wax model. An ancient technique where molten metal is poured onto a wax mould to develop a cast.
The King inspected the model but was disappointed as it lacked life. He requested the artist to remodel and focus on a more lively fighting style. The artist remodelled it as requested, but the King was still disappointed. The King became so furious that he caught hold of the artist's neck.
The artist cried loudly, my King, forgive me. I know what is missing, and you have shown it to me. Give me another chance. I shall not disappoint again. He let go of his neck and gave him one last chance.
He was able to satisfy the King in his final attempt. The idol looked fierce, lifelike and portrayed Bhimsen in a fighting stance about to kill Dushasana.
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An Interesting Yomari
The mouthwatering delicacy known as Yomari is a staple in Newari households. Traditionally prepared during the Newar month of Thinla, which coincides with the Gregorian period of December, the treat is a homage first presented to the deity Annapurna Devi. It is prepared in a similar shape in most Newar households but in a peculiar manner in the community of Pucho.
The month of Thinla in the Newari calendar is when the paddy seeds planted during Tachala sway like fields of gold. The delicacy of Yomari is part of the harvest moon festival, which is known as Yomari Punhi (Purnima). It coincides with the Gregorian month of December.
A Yomari has a special place in the heart of most Newars. The name is derived from a fruit that falls in the fig family natively found in the region. The shape of the fruit is a base for a traditional Yomari prepared with the first batch of grain and presented to Annapurna Devi. Linguistically, Yo means preferred or liked, and Mari means bread.
Traditionally it features a mixture of molasses and brown sesame seeds. The shell is prepared from powdered white rice and is shaped to resemble the Yomari fruit. Apart from the month of Thinla, the delicacy is put together during various family rituals, especially during the second birthday. Medium to small-sized Yomaris are strung together to make a garland offered to the child.
The account of an interesting Yomari is from the community of Pucho. This place today is generally called Pulchowk. This area is home to Maharjan farmers whose ancestry is from the Eastern mountains. As per chronicles, the King of Patan gave refuge to Kirats banished from their homeland. The King welcomed them with open arms. Acknowledging their preference of living in higher altitudes, they were given a place in Pucho.
The historicity of the region goes as back as the draining of the lake known as Nagard, which today is the Kathmandu Valley. The peak of the hillock of Pucho is known as Shilapur Banagiri. Banagiri in ancient Newari means a place where an arrow fell. As per chronicles, after Bodhisatva Manjushri decided to drain this lake to create a sanctum, he shot a powerful arrow for the purpose. It fell on this very hill. Post which, Bodhisatva Manjushri came up with a different plan which featured draining the water from Kotwaldwar (Devichaur). Kotwal is the name of the mountain, and dwar means a gate.
As the valley prospered, it became renowned in Asia as a prime Buddhist sanctuary. Locals suppose that the Great Samrat Ashoka visited this valley and established five earthen mounds. Four of which were dedicated to the yugas. The symbolism behind the fifth is still unknown. These mounds then later become the boundary of the city of Patan. The western stupa is on the foothill of Silapur Banagiri.
This mound plays a historic role as not just a boundary marker but also a landmark. The community of Pucho, which primarily featured Buddhists and the later Kirat refugees who assimilated into the Newars, hold it as a part of their identity.
During Yomari Punhi, the locals cook the delicacy in a unique shape similar to the earthen mound. It is known as Chibamari, Chiba meaning an earthen mound/stupa and Mari meaning bread. The shell is distinctly triangular and bears an uncanny resemblance to the 13 step finial of the Pucho mound. The filling is more chunky in this area, meaning the molasses is not melted.
The incorporation of two distinct cultures shows the importance of religious values and monuments of this region. The Chibamari is distinct. Over the years, it has become the identity of the people.
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The Importance of Karunamaya: Rato Matsyendranath
Amongst the various deities of the Kathmandu Valley, Karunamaya holds the highest rank. He is known by multiple names such as Bunga Dyo (God of Bunga), Aryavalokitshwor Padmapani and Rato Matsyendranath. He is revered by citizens of both the Hindu and Buddhist faith. One of the most elaborate chariot festivals in the world happens annually in his honour.
Non-Newars always marvel at the magnitude of the festivities that surround them. The pop and flair combined with the faith and dedication towards building a chariot 5 stories tall and circumventing it in the old streets of Patan is a sight to behold. The locals view him as a messiah and would not refrain from turning any stone for his celebration.
So why is Karunamaya so important?
Thousands of years ago, the citizens of this valley faced a dire crisis. It was significant enough to wipe out the entire civilisation of Kathmandu Valley. As agriculture was the occupation of the native inhabitants, a mysterious ill plagued the fields. The seeds planted with love and care grew to only wither. The farms that were to resemble gold began to look like desolation.
The people didn't know the cause, nor did they know the exact remedy. With the years harvest down the drain, they could only hope the reserves would last them long enough for a rescue. As the people began to worry, the King could not hold his heart. King Narendra-deva was known for his service and dedication to his people. But he had abdicated the throne in favour of his son. King Narendra-deva chose to spend the rest of his life observing monastic discipline.
The tantric master named Banudhatta Acharya, who sided in Te Bahal, knew that far away in a distant land resided the solution to our crisis. He informed the present King Bara-deva and requested him to go to his father and request if he would accompany the tantric master in his journey. For as long as the true King is alive, he cannot take his son.
King Narendra-deva accepted. He, along with Bandudhatta and Ratnakar Jyapu, left for an adventure. The destination was Kamakhya, which falls in present-day Odisha of India. There, the team met with a master farmer named Karunamaya. The trio told him of the ill that plagued their kingdom. Karunamaya wished to visit the valley and relieve it himself but wasn't allowed to by his mother. Thus, he passed on to them the needed tools, seeds and knowledge to compact the famine. The trio then bid farewell to the master and returned to the valley. They then applied the findings as instructed, and the fields slowly but steadily began to sway like gold.
It was this feat, the generosity of one man. Who, without any expectations, helped three ailing strangers that earned him a high rank in the pantheon of this valley. Even though he was mortal, the people in this valley immortalised him. A temple was built in his honour in the village of Bungamati. The settlement was renamed Amarpur, meaning a land immortal.
An elaborate chariot festival was designed by priest Bandudhatta. A 5 storey tall chariot was envisioned with featured all the elements of the journey and the temple of Bungamati.
Thousands of years later, even to this day, the people of this valley have not forgotten his generosity. Historians believe that he had a different name. Karunamaya was the general call name which means the compassionate one. Members of the Buddhist faith refer to him as Aryavalokiteshwor Padmapani, whereas Hindu's call him Rato Matsyendranath due to the connection with the tantric master Gorakhnath.
The people ensure the chariot festival happens even at the worst odds because they fear the illness shall return again. All the necessary rituals are performed every year to invoke the deity to ensure the valley's prosperity. The chariot is built at Pulchowk and circumvents the old routes of the city. It comes to an end in the open field known as Jawalakhel. Once the ceremonial display of the bhoto is complete, the idol is taken to Bungamati. Here it rests for 6 months of the year and the other half in the temple inside Patan.
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A Unique Day: Bibah Panchami
Bibah Panchami, the day that marks the marriage of Lord Ram and Goddess Sita, is a beautiful festival of the Mithila Culture hosted every year in Janakpur, the Mithila capital. On this day, a week-long reenactment of the marriage is done with grand celebrations of the deed that frameworks the ancient Mithila culture and its history.
As written in the legend of Ramayana, the ancient city of Janakpur was the home of the eldest daughter of King Janak, the king of the Mithila Kingdom, princess Sita. She was the daughter of the universe, an extraordinary, ideal woman resonating the beauty of womanhood and femininity. She is also known as the daughter of the Earth. Sita, being the only one who so effortlessly lifted the impossible bow of Lord Shiva, King Janak organized a Swayambar for her where he decided that the man who could lift up that bow would be the one to marry the beautiful princess. After countless men trying but failing the task, the Prince Ram of Ayodhya came in and lifted the bow as effortlessly as Sita did.
The divine couple got married, and ever since then, to celebrate the union of the idealistic gods, Bibah Panchami is celebrated on the fifth day of the Shukla Paksha in the Aradhayana months according to the Mithila Calendar (that falls somewhere around November to December).
As written in the Ramayana, the couple along with Ram’s brother went to reside in a forest (vanvas) as per the wish of his stepmother. The king had told his young queen that he would grant her two wishes. She then told the king to banish Ram and crown her son, Bharata as king of Ayodhya. During this exile, Sita was abducted by Ravan, the king of Lanka. A large battle was bought between the forces of Lord Ram and Ravana. Lord Ram became victorious and was reunited with Sita. Lord Ram was then hailed as a hero and was rightfully instated as the king of Ayodhya. Over the years, their story became a symbol for Hinduism and the victory of good over evil.
Thousands of people crowd the Janaki Temple, Ram temple, and many other temples of the Holy city of Janakpur to worship the god Ram and Sita in the mornings. The Janaki Temple is decorated for the celebration with colourful garlands, flowers, Mithila arts, and the sacred statue of Ram and Sita that stands in the centre of the temple is also cleaned and put on new clothes, just like it is done during any Mithila weddings.
The devotees perform different traditional marriage rituals that are traditionally done at weddings. Every rite is run through with devotional songs ‘bhajans’ that recite the stories and purposes of every action performed. Men and women, especially kids, are dressed up as Lord Ram and Mother Sita and are carried around in chariots during this day. The procession takes place on the bustling roads in front of the temples. Traditional wedding music is played to imitate the ‘baaraat’ (janti) of Lord Ram as he came to marry the princess. In the evenings, the devotees and people of the city gather up in the fairs put out in front of temples where people can explore, dance, eat to celebrate the auspicious day of their gods with each other.
Bibah Panchami stands as a symbol of Mithila culture, which dates back thousands of years. Even today, the exact process followed during the marriage of Ram and Sita are followed with the utmost attention to detail. The various aspects of the celebration present the rich artistic history of the Mithila people and the communities culture. Which has been passed down for generations.
Along with which a sense of togetherness is also taught to the next generation. Families, neighbours, far relatives come together as one, share delicacies they prepared at their homes the night before, and find a reason to appreciate each other and their identity as a community to celebrate the holy matrimony. Making the festival of Bibah Panchami a portrayal of the integrity of the community they build up together.
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Exploring Dolpa
The far-flung hidden land of Dolpa concealed within the wondrous pristine mountains of northern Nepal is beauty beyond measure. A place where breathtaking landscapes blend with barren desert-like plans, ancient religious shrines, mystical rivers, turquoise lakes, and the obscure yet riveting lives and culture of the people.
Situated at the north of the mid-western part of Nepal, Dolpa is the largest district surrounded by the Dhaulagiri Mountain range at the south and east, Churen Himal range at the west, and the Tibetan Plateau at the north. Accessible through land and air, the journey can be taken by a flight to Jumla and then a trek to Dolpa or a bus ride to the nearest urban centre of Dolpa.
This region features a series of treks that help you explore the last of the virgin land of Nepal. These far-off adventures take you miles from the urban settlement where life seems to have stood still. The dense forestry is home to pristine flora and fauna, and the crown jewel is the beautiful lake of Shey Phoksundo. The rugged plain rocky landscape, religious shrines and ancient monasteries are something out of the world. The amalgam of which help create an experience of a lifetime.
The treks of this region fall into the category of difficult to extreme. A trekker needs to be in the best possible shape to conquer the seemingly endless stretch of land. A direct escape to Shey Poksundo doesn't require any camping. The longer route, however, features some areas where camping is required.
Along the dense hills of the National Park lies the alpine freshwater oligotrophic lake, Shey Phoksundo Lake, the deepest lake in the country. The emerald blue crystal clear waters elegantly reflect the snowy peaks, serve a heavenly experience of nature amongst the mystical frontier land of Dolpa. As per local lore, a wicked demoness flooded a village to let the saint Padmasambhava know of her existence. The remains of this old village are still visible in relics that surround the area. Dispersed near the shoreline are small gompas, stupas and shrines of this arcane village. The new settlement rests atop the dam that created the lake of Shey Phoksundo.
The area is also home to a 900-year-old Pal Sentan Thasoon Chholing Gompa, an ancient Bön-Po Gompa. The region is also home to more than a hundred gompas resonating the religious and structural astonishments of the Buddhist and Bon-Po fusion. The most sacred natural element is the crystal mountain. The trekking route to and around it is known as the Crystal Mountain Trek. It is one of the most challenging treks in Nepal. A standard itinerary for Crystal Mountain is a minimum of 27 days. The mountain receives its name through the abundance of various crystals. The three enshrined Gompas of Shey Village are Komoche, Sel Sumdo, and Tsakhang Gompas that offer a spiritual adventure under the alluring roof of nature.
The forestry protects a long list of endangered fauna such as the snow leopard, Tibetan wolves, the Himalayan tahr. The flora protected by this region is Rhododendron, Salix, white Himalayan birch, silver fir that shadow this region.
The native inhabitants of this valley are former Tibetans who over time became Nepalese. Their outlook resembles the features of mongoloid, and their best trait is a beautiful smile. Due to the remoteness of this region, they still live by the ancient ways. This region preserves the last of the Bon-Po religions relics and scripts. Generations have grown up in this natural yonder, and still, for some, the world ends beyond the mountains. The lower periphery of Dolpa features Hindu inhabitants. Whereas in the north, people follow Buddhism and few elements of Bon-Po.
Agriculture, animal husbandry, collection and trade of yarsagumba, along with rare fungus, help sustain their livelihood.
Folk tales present Dolpa as Beyul, a secret valley created by Guru Rinpoche to hold uniquely pure minds. Tucked under the artsy and heavenly Himalayan rage, the northernmost part of Dolpa is home to Rokpa farmers and Drokpa nomads from Tibet.
Today, Dolpa holds a magical escape to travellers and explorers.
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The Tale of Shankadhar Sakhwa - Part II
The act of Shankadhar Sakhwa is more than of selflessness and grace. His wit and faith did not just bring him good fortune but also to the former kingdom of Kantipur.
Continued…
The day was almost at an end. Sakwal was at his courtyard staring at the heap of sand. Confusion could be seen in his face. Why did the coolies choose to dig at that very spot? They even waited for an exact time. What is this mystery?
Sakwal failed to notice that the sun had already gone down. He was so lost in his thoughts that he could not hear his wife call him for dinner. He then suddenly came back to reality and saw how it was already late. He made his way to his kitchen, where his wife was waiting for him. He finished his meal and called it a night.
In the morning, Sakwal woke up early, as usual, to head to the nearest temples and monasteries to offer his regards. He walked out of his house and was about to open the main door when he noticed something shining in the corner. He opened the main gate, and as light entered, it unveiled something that he could not comprehend. He was quick to close the door so that no one else would see it. He stood there, stiff as a tree trunk with eyes wide open.
It looked like he had seen a ghost. He called for his wife and asked her to come downstairs quickly. As she entered the courtyard, she noticed her husband just standing there. He called her to where he was and told her, my wife, please tell me that this is not a heap of gold dust?
The wife looked down and was utterly surprised. She looked towards him and said, dear husband, this is a heap of gold dust!
Inside the royal palace of Bhaktapur, one could sense that the king was angry. He was at his courtyard staring at a heap of sand. He looked towards his astrologer and said, your prediction failed. The astrologer was confused, but deep within, he was angry. He told himself that he did everything as instructed.
With the king's permission, the astrologer left for his house. He poured out all his anger within the sanctum of his four walls.
The king knew the greatness of his astrologer and how he was never wrong. While he was headed towards his room, he stumbled upon the baskets inside which the sand was brought. He saw an unusual glitter. He moved closer and inspected. He saw specks of gold dust at the bottom. He told himself, my astrologer was right!
The king ran with great haste towards the house of his astrologer. He barged inside and climbed up the stairs quickly. He saw a fire kindling in the fireplace. He noticed a book being burnt. He looked towards his astrologer and said, is this that very book you consulted to turn sand into gold? The astrologer replied, yes, my king!
The king then rushed to save whatever was left of the book. He put his hand into the fire and pulled the pages, and dipped them in a pot of milk that stood near the fire palace. The astrologer rushed to aid his king.
Once they saved what they could, the astrologer asked his majesty why he did that. The king then turned to his astrologer and said, you were right, but we were outsmarted!
Inside the royal palace of Kathmandu, Sakwal was in an audience with the king of Kantipur. Your majesty, I am a merchant, and I have enough wealth for myself and my family. I have stumbled upon this great treasure that I wish to share with my people. I am a righteous man, and if I become greedy, I might have a luxurious life, but it shall come to bite me when I have to cross the holy river after my death. I wish to pay the debt of my country and each citizen with this treasure. I am here to request your permission to do so, said Sakwal. The king was impressed by his righteousness and virtue. He gave permission to Sakwal to complete his endeavour.
To commemorate this feat, Sakwal was given the right to start a new era. He consulted with great astrologers of the kingdom and issued the new epoch of Nepal Sambat.
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The Tale of Shankadhar Sakhwa - Part I
Shankadhar Sakhwa also known as Sakhwal is the founder of the Nepal Era also known as Nepal Sambat. This man’s story is an epitome of how wit is more powerful than strength.
The calendar of Nepal Sambat is the official calendar for the Newars. It was introduced more than 1100 years ago and is lunisolar. The story behind its origin is fascinating and sometimes hard to believe. Various aspects of it are correct. Due to the gravity of the act, the founder Shankadhar Sakhwa was indoctrinated into the list of national hero's by the former His Majesty's Government.
As per various chronicles and historical narratives, the story goes as follows:
One day a team of coolies (porters) were gathered at Lakhu Tirtha, the confluence of Bagmati and Vishnumati rivers near the Royal Palace of Kantipur, present-day Kathmandu. They were impatiently waiting and pacing at times. As the sun reached a certain point in the sky, they knew the time was right!
They started digging in haste and began to load their baskets with heaps of sand. Once their baskets were filled, they took a sigh of relief. Ensuring the load was secure, they then hit the road. When they reached Maru, they saw a resting house and given the weight was making them heavy and hot, they decided to take a break.
During this time, a merchant commonly referred to as Sakhwal left his house for his endeavour. When he reached the spot where the coolies were resting, he was surprised to see heaps of sand with them. He observed for a while and deduced that they were from Bhaktapur. He was familiar with the dialect of the region. He asked himself, why did these men come all this way to Kantipur for sand? The rivers in Bhaktapur have enough sand to last a lifetime.
To quench his curiosity, he approached the men and asked them that question. The coolies responded, Sir, this sand is not for us. We are only servants, and we do as our master pleases. He instructed us to come here and dig for sand near Lakhu Tirtha at an exact time. We were on our way home and noticed this resting house and decided to take a break.
Sakhwal was fascinated. Why here? He asked himself. He decided to request the coolies to dumb the sand at the courtyard of his house. To do so, he asked them to come to his home for a meal before he left. The coolies were more than happy to receive a free meal.
Once fed, Sakhwal requested the coolies to dumb the sand in the courtyard. The coolies were quite confused. To lighten the situation and motivate them, Sakhwal pulled out his pouch and paid the coolies handsomely. He instructed the coolies to take another heap of sand to their master.
With a free meal and free money, the coolies were very delighted. They were also being paid by their master for this assignment. Thus they felt like it was their lucky day. The men dumped the said and bid farewell to Sakhwal. Once at the junction, they topped their baskets again and left for Bhaktapur.
As the coolies reached Bhaktapur, they took the road to the palace. The guards inspected them. Once satisfied, they were allowed to enter the king's court. Within the palace, king Ananda Malla was patiently waiting for their arrival. Beside him was his dear astrologer, who was very anxious.
The coolies entered the court, and both the king and his astrologer were quick to their feet. They came forward and analysed their baskets. The king looked to his astrologer and said, I hope your prediction comes true. He instructed the coolies to leave the basket and its contents adjacent to the courtyard. They were then paid by the kings chief.
The king asked, so what do we do with this pile of sand now? We wait, replied the astrologer.
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Chhath: A Homage to the Sun God
The festive flair in Nepal never dies. The diversity of various ethnicities and their traditions go on throughout the year. Amongst such festivities, Chhath is the largest festival in the Madhesh community. The celebrations last for a total of four days. During which, devotees worship the sun god and various other deities and pray for prosperity and longevity.
The communities of the southern region of Nepal, collectively known as the Madeshi community, have numerous festivals such as Holi, Chaitya Dashain, Chhath, Dashera, Dipawali and others. Amongst them, Chhath holds great significance.
During the festival of Chaath, devotees worship the Sun God with high venerations. People view this deity as the force that binds the universe together and provides energy. Through the rituals and traditions, families welcome prosperity into the family and prevent bad omens. Worshippers also pray for longevity and happiness.
The history of Chhath can be traced back to the early Vedic Period in Hinduism. As per folklore, Chhati Maiya, the wife of the Sun God, can grant all wishes. Her blessings can bring prosperity and positive energy into one's life.
Most festivals feature unique hymns and songs which depict the purpose of the festival. During Chhath, devotees recite similar songs and hymns. The community present various offerings and chant holy prayers to the god of light during the four-day celebration.
Day 1: Nahaye Khaye
As the name suggests, 'Nahaye' means to take a bath and 'khaye' means to eat. The first day of the festival features a dip at the nearby holy river, post which devotees wear a pair of fresh clothes. Devotees then indulge in a pure vegetarian breakfast. The meal also doesn't incorporate garlic and onions.
This day symbolizes the start of the holy fasting performed in the festival, also known as ‘Vrat’, and the devotees take a vow to finish their fasting to attain blessings.
Day 2: Kharna
On the second day, believers fast for a full day. The process of gaining purity features a holy bath and eating purely vegetarian food to break the fast. A series of delicacies and sweets are prepared in house using recipes passed down from generations.
‘Kasaar’, a sweet made from roasted rice, is prepared during the daytime. Other popular desserts are ‘Thekua’, a mix of wheat flour and caramel fried in oil and ‘Bhusuwa’, a sweet prepared similar to thekua but shaped spherically.
In the evening, ‘kheer’ (rice pudding) and ‘puri’ are prepared to break the fast. Individuals refrain from consuming salt, garlic or onions on this day.
Day 3: Sandhya Araghya
The third day is the prime day of Chhath puja, where devotees begin a fast, where they don't even drink a drop of water the entire day. During the evening, they go to the edge of a river, lake, or pond called 'ghat' with their families, carrying a bamboo basket decorated with fruits, sugarcane, and sweets prepared from the day before.
Diyos (oil lamps), candles, smoke sticks are set up in the ghat to perform the Araghya, special prayer. As the sun sets, devotees hold fruits and smoke sticks in their hands and stand in the water, worshipping and offering their Araghya at the setting sun, Chhathi Mata, and the Vedic Goddess of Dawn. Offerings or ‘prasad’ such as milk, fruits, sweets bestowed to the gods. As the sun sinks and night comes, they return to their homes to prepare for the coming morning.
Day 4: Usha Araghya
On this day, before the sunrise, devotees visit the ghat to offer the morning Araghya to the gods of the rising sun. Once the Araghya is complete, holy water from the river is sprinkled over the family members by the elder. The 36-hour fasting is brought to an end by the devotees by eating the prasad. This ritual is also known as Parana.
And with that, the festival of Chhath concludes.
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Ready To Welcome You
The Nepalese people have always been praised for their strength, hospitality and profound culture. With the introduction of tourism into this country, the people never failed to share these aspects with the world. Now that we are open after a grueling period of almost two years, we are all set and ready to give you a lifetime experience.
The government of Nepal recently introduced a new set of regulations for immigration. This is a welcoming sight for the tourism industry. It for almost two years experienced the largest stalemate since Nepal became open to the outside world in 1950 AD.
Since then, tourism has come a long way in Nepal. It has become a part of the nation not just economically but also socially. The impact of travellers who choose to experience Nepal’s yonder can be seen in the majority of the households. The provision of jobs for the general public and development of various parts of Nepal for solely tourism alone shows the depth of its impact.
Nepal has a lot to give, and we are ready to welcome you. We have so much to offer that words cannot justify the sheer beauty and adventures that await you. Mentioned below are some of the activities you can indulge in during your trip to Nepal.
1. Cultural Discovery
Nepal is a land of multiple ethnicities. Its historicity goes back thousands of years, with mentions of its various natural elements in the profound pages of holy books. Even though the history of the modern face of Nepal only begins in the early 18th century, the magnitude of cultural aspects and history of various ethnicities in their domain is unfathomable in one single lifetime.
For enthusiasts of culture and history, Nepal is an opportunity to witness the old in the new. The people have maintained traditions that date back thousands of years and still celebrate them with joy. Each community has its own process and structure, and it comes together beautifully to create an amalgam that validates the thought of harmony in diversity.
2. A Mountainous Escape
The call of the mountains for wanderers has always been profound. The calling combined with the love and hospitality of the people creates an experience beyond anything else. Mountain tourism has always been one of the highest contributors to the tourism industry. Various initiatives, both public and private, have sustainably uplifted the infrastructure.
One of the largest lures in this genre has been Mt Everest. The two popular treks in this region are the Everest Base Camp Trek and the Everest Circuit trek. Both allow the trekker to experience the magnitude of the mountains along with the lives of the people.
The establishment of the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA) gave a new purpose for the inhabitants of this region. Tourism has not just provided good jobs but has also motivated Nepalese working foreign nations to return. The ABC trek is the most popular in the area, followed by the Poonhill trek, Upper and Lower Mustang Trek and others. Over the years, this region has become a favourite for all trekkers of all genres.
3. An Adrenaline Adventure
Adrenaline is the fuel that sparks greatness. Up until a few years ago, adventures in Nepal were only trekking, mountaineering and jungle safaris. But today, the list of activities to get a kick out of is growing. The potential was always there, but the effort was not made to develop the infrastructure to present Nepal as a truly adventurous destination.
Today, activities such as sky diving, paragliding, bungy jumping, abseiling, canyoning, rock and ice climbing and zip flying are available in countless exotic destinations of Nepal.
4. Culinary Escapade
Every ethnicity in Nepal has its own cuisine. It is an amalgam of the geography, climate and availability of resources. Experts have always talked about Nepal’s potential of becoming a culinary destination, but not a lot of effort has been made. The dominance of international cuisine is apparent, but research and standardisation can accelerate Nepal’s growth in this genre. Various cuisines such as the Newars, Sherpa, Maithali, Madeshi and Thakali are already popular, but many more await discovery.
These activities are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to discovering Nepal. All it takes is a desire for growth and hard work to bring forth new activities and challenges for the world to experience in this beautiful nation.
This trek is specially designed to reach the Everest Base Camp including Kala Pattar which is the best view point to view the sunrise over the high Himalayas including the Mt. Everest. This trek requires 13 days.
USD 1515 PER PERSON -- TWIN ROOM SHARING BASIS