Why Travel in Nepal?
12 Sep 2022 Chandra Gurung
Introduction
‘ Why Travel in Nepal? ’ is a rather unusual question, making us gawk in bewilderment—because the thought of visiting a place that hosts the tallest mountain in the world has crossed everyone’s mind at some point in time. Let us clarify all doubts about why you should arrange a trip to this part of the world soon (in case you haven’t yet).
Nepal is the ideal destination for all travelers, particularly for adventure tourism, religious pilgrimages, and the exploration of ancient cultures and architecture. The distinctive charm of the country is characterized by its medieval structures, age-old customs, and traditions of natural and indigenous heritage.
Following are the reasons for you to consider a visit to Nepal:
1. Exceptional Hospitality:
Nepalese culture exemplifies the philosophy of Atithi Devo Bhava, which entails that ‘ a guest is akin to god ’. This traditional practice is rooted deeply in the Dharmic religions of Hinduism and Buddhism, dating long back to ancient times.
Once you’re in Nepal, you will notice that people go out of their way to help you, greeting you as they would any family member or close acquaintance. Visitors are treated with the utmost respect, and the locals here are extremely friendly, which is why you will often catch yourself wondering in doubt/suspicion of their innocent intentions.
2. Intricate Authentic Architecture:
It is believed that the legendary architect named Arniko was born in the Kathmandu Valley. He was a prominent artist figure in Asia —especially in Tibet, Nepal, China, and Indonesia. Known for his designs of pagoda-style buildings and temples, and was later inducted into the Yuan Dynasty of China by Kubal Khan as the chief architect for the Mongol Empire.
In Nepal, you can witness many Tibetan-influenced monasteries and other temples, fountains, and buildings from the Licchavi, Shah, and Rana Dynasties. Palaces and houses built with wood, metal, and stones are common features of Nepalese Architecture.
Another unique style of construction is the Shikhara style of temples. Nepal is home to about a dozen UNESCO World Heritage Sites, most of which are located in the Kathmandu Valley.
3. Visit Lumbini – Lord Buddha’s Birthplace:
This is possibly the most popular Buddhist pilgrimage site in Nepal, and it lies in the terai plains of this great nation. The great ruler of the Mauryan Empire, Ashoka—son of Bindusara, was one of the earliest pilgrims to this site.
Lumbini has several significant landmarks considered important to Buddhism, including the Sacred Bodhi Tree, Mayadevi Temple, the Ashokan Pillar, and the World Peace Pagoda. Numerous stupas and monasteries are situated within this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
4. Delicious Nepalese Cuisine:
Nepalese cuisine varies with altitude and the respective ethnic group accordingly. Still, Dal Bhat Tarkari is the staple in most parts of the country, which is rice, lentils, and vegetable curry of choice. Condiments and spices are used extensively in all the dishes, borrowing influences from the neighboring countries of India, Tibet, and China.
After Dal Bhat Tarkari, the most famous dish is momo, steamed dumplings made from flour dough with minced meat on the inside. A rice-flour-made, sweet bread called the Selroti is also another much sought-after festival delicacy here.
5. A Wide Array of Captivating Festivals:
For those lucky to visit Nepal during the seasons of its major festivities, you can experience an extravagant cultural exhibition of the Nepalese communities on the streets and every home identically.
Dashain & Tihar are the biggest festivals of all, and it is an important Hindu festival that is rejoiced and celebrated in a lively, enthusiastic manner. This festival celebrates an incarnation of the Goddess Laxmi—Durga.
Other major festivals are Buddha Jayanti (Buddha’s birthday), Indra Jatra, Gai Jatra, Janai Purnima, Teej, Janmashtami, Fagun Purnima, Maghe Sankranti, and Shivaratri.
6. Biodiversity:
Over 100 IUCN-designated threatened species were identified across Nepal. The abundance of 118 ecosystems(of which 18 are plant and 88 animal species) is recognised here.
Thirty-five different forest types and a whopping 8.9% of the total bird species found worldwide are in Nepal. More than 200 lakes have been discovered in Nepal, most of which occur in and around the trans-Himalayan area.
More than 86% of this country is covered by hills and high mountains. The country relies on tourism as a major source of revenue, which also employs a major section of the population, who are involved in activities such as hospitality, trekking/mountaineering, adventure sports, etc. Significant sustainable growth without an adverse effect on its natural ecosystems and wildlife is a growing concern.
7. Low Crime Rate:
Nepal is one of the safest places to visit, and it has a very low crime rate compared to any of its neighboring subcontinents/countries. The people of Nepal are very friendly and helpful, and you can wander through most places without being apprehensive. Though, if you decide to trek through deserted areas or remote trails, it would be advisable to hire a local guide.
8. Discover Beyuls:
Beyuls are sacred hidden valleys, a spiritual oasis in the Himalayas. These places are of great significance to Buddhist devotees. These geographical locations are exquisitely beautiful and sanctuous, blessed by the Padhmasabhava himself. Beyuls are believed to be the place where the physical and the spiritual worlds overlap coincidentally. These locations are believed to be found when the world’s end is imminent, and if there is too much corruption and sin.
Some of the already discovered Beyuls in Nepal are the Barun Valley (at the base of Mt. Makalu), the Langtang Valley, and even the Sagarmatha National Park.
9. Trekking/Climbing:
Nepal is a unique trekking and climbing destination for all outdoor enthusiasts, with many choices based on your skill level and expertise. The Manaslu Circuit Trek, Everest Three Passes, Annapurna Base Camp/Circuit Trek, Upper Mustang, Gokyo Lakes, Dhaulagiri, and Narphu Valley Trek are some of the exotic trekking destinations that are all located in Nepal.
Similarly, the country hosts 8 out of 12 eight thousand-meter peaks, an absolute delight for mountaineers, who are drawn to this Himalayan country throughout the year. Some of the best mountaineers (especially the unrelenting, hardy Sherpa People) also belong to this part of the world.
10. It is Inexpensive:
During your stay in Nepal, you will realize how budget-friendly it is to get around here. From food to accommodation, it is pretty easy to get by here. Hence, it is a great place for vacationing, given that there are a lot of sightseeing places, and your stays here are quite inexpensive.
11. Possibilities for Volunteering
While Nepal is a pleasant nation filled with cheerful people, it is still under development. Thus there are lots of volunteering options for you to become engaged in the culture and contribute. Nepal is where you may visit for a good cause, specifically after the 2015 earthquake. You will get fantastic insights and form extraordinary friendships with individuals from completely different origins and cultures than you, which may shift your entire view on life.
Conclusion
So Why Travel in Nepal?
However, you will always come across unheard reasons and find newer reasons to visit, Nepal. We Manaslu Guide, that you visit our similar other blogs again, for more exciting places to go to, and other interesting events that you should attend while you stay in this marvelous country called “Nepal”. Stay updated for more!
FAQ
Q. Why should you visit Nepal?
Nepal is a land of extremes. Natural splendors mingle with a strong culture and sense of history. With ten of the world’s fourteen tallest mountains, the nation provides a spectacular environment for trekking and climbing and some of the most incredible white water rafting in the world.
Q. Why are visitors fascinated by Nepal?
Nepal is an excellent choice for individuals who appreciate hiking and adventure. Every year, thousands of travelers flock to Nepal in quest of adventure. Despite being a Himalayan nation, Nepal boasts a plethora of trekking and adventure options. Nepal provides a diverse range of hiking paths and itineraries to choose from.
Q. What distinguishes Nepal?
Natural beauty, rich cultures, dense pilgrimage sites, diverse weather in such a narrow range of locales, and many other factors combine to make Nepal more distinctive and lovely than so-called developed towns lacking greenery and unpreserved culture and history.
Q. What are some interesting facts about Nepal?
Five Amazing Nepal Facts That Everybody Needs to Know
1) Nepal contains the majority of the Himalayas.
2) Nepal has always been an independent country (Was Never Under Any Foreign Invasion)
3) Only country in the world with a non-rectangular national flag.
4) Nepal used to be known as the “Weed Capital.”
5) Since 1815, Nepal’s “GURKHAS” have served in the British Army.
Q. Is Nepal affordable for tourists?
According to the World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index, Nepal is one of the cheapest nations in the world to visit.
Q. In terms of beauty, where does Nepal rank?
CN Traveler named Nepal one of the world’s top 40 most beautiful nations. In June, a popular media company in the United States ranked Nepal 27th among other countries. Once-in-a-lifetime events and stunning scenery coexist in Nepal.