Introduction
Surrounded by the greatest heights of the Himalaya, the kingdom of Nepal is a land of
eternal attraction, a place where one visit is hardly ever enough. It's a land of colorful
cultures, ancient history and people, superb scenery and some of the best walking on
earth.
Nepal's history is closely related to its geographical location, separating the fertile
plains of India from the desert-like plateau of Tibet. Its position between Indian and
China meant the country was able at times to play the role of intermediary - a canny
trader between two great powers - while at other times it faced the threat of invasion.
Internally, its history was just as dynamic, with city-states in the hills vying with each
other for power until one powerful king, Prithivi Narayan Shah, overran them all. That
history is very visible today with the three great towns of the Kathmandu valley -
Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur - still bearing witness to their days as fiercely
competitive mediaeval mini-kingdoms. Indeed, in Nepal it's often possible to suspend
belief and mentally roll the clock right back to the mediaeval era.
Behind the old temples and places of the Kathmandu Valley, above and beyond the hills
that surrounding the valley, another kingdom' rises skyward. The abode of snows' which is
what Himalaya means in Sanskrit, is a natural kingdom' and a magnet to mountaineers from
all above the world. You don't have to be Sherpa or Hillary in order for you to get in
amongst these great mountains. With a touch of enterprises and a modicum of fitness most
travelers can walk the trails that lead into the road less heights of the Himalaya. In
Nepal one trek is rarely enough, and many visitors soon find themselves planning to
return. Fascinating old town, magnificent temples and great walking are not all Nepal has
to offer. Many visitors come to Nepal expecting to find these things but also discover how
outstanding friendly the Nepalese are.
Trekking is not the only activity which draws visitors, it also has some superb
white-water rafting opportunities, mountain biking, which is become more and more popular,
and down in the jungle, safaris on elephant-back into the Royal Chitwan National Park are
another not-to-be-missed part of the Nepal experience.
Geography
In two of the three dimensions, length and breadth, Nepal is just another small country.
In the third, height, it's number one in the world. Nepal starches from north-west to
south-east about 800 km and varies in width from around 90 km to 230 km. This gives it a
total area of just 147,181 sq. km according to the official figures.
Within that small area, however, is the greatest range of altitude to be seen on this
earth - starting with the Terai, only 100m or so above sea level, and finishing at the top
of Mt. Everest (8848m), the highest point on earth.
Often a visitor's overriding goal is to see the mountains, especially Everest and
Annapurna. However, to exclude the people, flowers, birds and wildlife from the experience
is to miss the essence of the country regions, or natural zones: the plains in the south,
four mountain ranges, and the valley lying between them. The lowlands with their fertile
soils, and the southern slopes of the mountains with sunny exposures, allow for
cultivation and are the main inhabited regions.
Climate
Nepal has four distinct seasons. Spring from March to May, is warm with rain showers.
Summer, from June to August, is the monsoon season when the hills turn lush and green.
Autumn, from September to November, is cool with clear skies and is the most popular
season for trekking. In winter, from December to February, it is cold at night, with fog
in the early morning.
Because Nepal is quite far south in Latitude (same as Miami), the weather is warmer and
winter is much milder at lower elevations. The monsoon is determined by the Bay of Bengal.
It is hot during the monsoon with rain almost everyday. During this season, trekking in
most of Nepal is difficult and uncomfortable, the trails being muddy and infested with
leeches. It usually does not rain for more that one or two days during the entire autumn
and the winter season. In the winter, the mountains are covered with snow including some
high hills. Mt. Everest itself is a huge black rock during the trekking season, which
becomes snow-covered only during the winter.
How is the Weather in Kathmandu, Nepal ?
Population
Nepal's population currently stands at around 23 million (1998 estimate). Every year
population increases by nearly 600,000. The largest city is Kathmandu, the capital, with
more than 700,000 people. In the mountains the rate of increase is lower than in Terai,
but this is because many people are migrating in search of land and work. Despite
extremely high rates of infant morality, the life expectancy is only a horrifying 54
years, the overall annual rate of population increase is a rapid 2.6%. Family planning is
primary importance, but most people continue to regard children as a blessing. A child is
seen as a vital and fulfilling part of the parents' life, an extra worker and someone to
care for them in old age, not just an extra stomach. Women have an average of more than
four children each.
People
Like the geography, the population of Nepal extremely diverse and highly complex.
Simplistically, Nepal is the meeting point for the Indo-Aryan people of Indian with the
Tibeto-Burman of the Himalaya, but this gives little hint of the dynamic ethnic mosaic
that has developed and continues to change to this day. In a south-north direction, as you
move from the plains to the mountains, the ethnic map can be roughly divided into layers:
the Terai, the midlands or Pahad zone, and the Himalaya. Each zone is dominated by
characteristic ethnic groups whose agriculture and lifestyles are adapted to suit the
physical constraints of their environment. In the Himalayan zone, the people are
Monologian of Tibetan descent. They are know as bhote in Nepali. In the east of the
midlands zone, one find Kirati people known as Rai, Limbu groups. They speak Tibeto-Burman
Language. In the Terai zone, after the eradication of malaria in the 1950s the only people
to live in the valley were Tharus of Hindu overtones.
Anthropologists divide the people of Nepal into about 50 ethnic groups or castes with
their own culture and traditions. Everyone is proud of their heritage. Many people use the
name of their ethnic group, caste or clan as their surname. The caste system has many
occupational castes such as Brahmins (Hindu Priests), Chhetris (farmers in the hills and
soldiers), Newars (the original inhabitants of Kathmandu Valley), Thakalis, Gurungs, Rais,
Limbus, Tamangs, Magars, Potters, butchers, blacksmiths, cobblers, goldsmiths, clothes
washers, etc.
Brahmin
The Brahmins (Bahuns in Nepali) are the traditional Hindu priest castes and speak Nepali
as their first language. They are conscious of the concept of jutho, or ritual pollution
at their home and food. Always ask permission before entering a Brahmin's house and never
enter a their kitchen. Brahmins traditionally do not drink alcohol.
Chhetri
The other major Hindu Caste is Chhetri. In villages they are farmers, but they are also
known for being outstanding soldiers. This clan includes the ruling family of Nepal, the
Shahs, Ranas and Thakuris. Thakuris are descendants of the Rajputs in India.
Newar
The original inhabitants of the Kathmandu Valley are the Newars. To this day also they
remain concentrated in the valley in Kathmandu, Patan, Bhaktapur and Kirtipur. Newars have
a rich cultural heritage with skilled artisans and most of the traditional arts of Nepal
have been crafted by Newars. There are both Buddhist and Hindu Newars.
Tamang
Tamang literally means "horse soldier' and Tamang legend says that they migrated to
Nepal at the time of Genghis Khan as cavalry troops. Tamangs are one of the most popular
in the Hills. They speak a Tibeto-Burmese language and practice a form of Tibetan Buddhism
as their religion. Most Tamangs are farmers. They also work as porters and the chances are
the 'Sherpa' on your trek is more likely to be a Tamang than a Sherpa.
Rai
Like the Tamangs and Sherpas, Rais speak a Tibeto-Burmese language of their own. They
practice an indigenous religion that is neither Buddhist nor Hindu, though it has more of
an influence of Hinduism. Rais, along with Limbus, Magars and Gurungs are one of the
ethnic groups which supply a large proportion of the recruits for the well known Gurkha
regiments of the British and Indian armies.
Limbu
Most Limbu people live in the eastern side of Nepal. Their religion is a mixture of
Buddhism and Shamanism.
Gurung
Gurungs often serve in the Nepalese army and the police as well as the Gurkha regiments of
both the British and Indian armies. They are Mongoloid in feature and their dance
performance are particularly exotic.
Magar
Traditionally, Magars are farmers and stonemasons but they also serve as soldiers in
Gurkha regiments and in the Nepalese army. Magars can either be Hindu or Buddhist.
Thakali
The Thakalis are originally from Kali Gandaki (Thak Khola) region but they have migrated
wherever business opportunities have led. They are excellent in business and running
hotels. They have a mixed religion of Buddhism, Hinduism and ancient shamanistic and
animistic cult.
Sherpa
One of Nepal's most famous ethnic groups are the Sherpas, even though they form only a
tiny part of the total population. Sherpas first came into prominence when the 1921 Mt.
Everest reconnaissance team hired them. Though the most famous Sherpa settlement are near
Everest region, they are found throughout the eastern part of Nepal.
Manangi
Manangi's reside in the northern part of Annapurna called Manang. They are closely related
to Tibetans. They had been given special trading privileges by the government and thus
Manangi's are mostly found to be doing business these days, importing goods from Hong
Kong, Bangkok and Singapore.
Tharu
The largest and most probably the oldest group in the Terai region are the Tharus. They
are mostly farmers. They have their own tribal religion based on Hinduism.
Culture, Conduct & Consideration
Nepal has always been a dividing line between cultures and civilizations, and a
cross-roads for the commerce and culture. Here the plains of the subcontinent climb up to
the high plateau of Tibet, the languages and people of India give way to those of China
and the Hindu religion blends in to Buddhism. Nepal is often a complex blend of the two
influences and this variation is further complicated by the diversity of ethnic groups
within the country.
The challenge for you as a visitor to Nepal is the respect the rights and beliefs of
the local people, and to minimize your impact - culturally and environmentally. Remember
Nepali is not an adventure park or museum established for your convenience, but home to a
vital, changing culture. Life for many is extremely hard, but despite the scarcity of
material possessions, there are many qualities that shame the so-called developed world.
Your very presence in Nepal will have an effect - an increasing number of people say a
negative one. In a totally different culture it is also inevitable that the visitor will
make some gaffe at some point. Most Nepalis make allowances, but they do appreciate it
when a genuine effort is made to observe local customs. Following is a miscellaneous
collection of simple suggestions that will help avoid offense.
Always remove your shoes before entering a Nepali home. Dress appropriately - shorts or
revealing clothing are never suitable for women. Shorts are acceptable for men only when
trekking; going without a shirt anywhere is not. Nudity is not acceptable anywhere
Behavior
Public display of affection are frowned upon. Nepali men often walk around hand-in-hand,
but this does not have the same implications as it does in San Francisco! Raising your
voice or shouting shows extreme bad manners and will not solve your problem, what ever it
might be. Always try to remain cool, calm and collect. Bodily contact is rarely made, even
for shaking hands, although amongst young Nepali men with western connections it is
becoming more accepted. Never touch anything or point at anything with your feet, the
lowest part of the body. In contrast the head is spiritually the highest part of the body,
so don't pat children on the head. Never inquire about a person's caste. The Nepalese do
not like to give negative answers or no answer at all: if you are given a wrong direction
or told a place is much nearer than it turns out to be, it may be through fear of
disappointing you! Don't encourage begging children. If you want to help there are lots of
excellent aid organizations which will make good use of your contribution and local
schools will be only too happy with a gift of ball-point pens.
Visiting a Temple
Always walk clockwise around Buddhist stupas, chortens or mani walls. Always remove your
shoes before entering a Buddhist or Hindu temple or sanctuary. You may also have to remove
any items made from leather, such as belts and bags. Many Hindu temples do not permit
westerners to enter.
It's the custom to give a white scarf or Khata to a Buddhist abbot when you are
introduced. The honorific title Rimpoche is usually bestowed on abbots. The scarves can
easily be found at Tibetan shops.
Visiting a Nepali Home
In a Nepali home the kitchen is off limits to guests. Avoid polluting food by
inadvertently touching it or bringing it into contact with a used plate or utensil. Using
you own fork or spoon to serve out more food will do this. Putting your used plate on a
buffet table risks making the food still on the table jutho or polluted. Notice how
Nepalese drink from cup or water vessel without letting it touch their lips.
Photography
Do not intrude with a camera, unless it is clearly OK with the people you are
photographing. Ask before a temple compound whether it is permissible to enter and take
photographs. Do not exchange addresses or offer copies of photos unless you definitely
intend to follow it up later.
Language
It's quite easy to get by with English in Nepal; most of the visitors will have to deal
with in the Kathmandu valley and in Pokhara will speak good English. Along the main
trekking trails, particularly the Annapurna Circuit, English is widely understood.
However, it's interesting to learn at least a little Nepali and it's quite an easy
language to pick up. Nepali is closely related to Hindi and, like Hindi, is a member of
the Indo-European group of languages. Although Nepali is the national language of Nepal
and is the linking language between all the country's ethnic groups there are many other
languages spoken. The Newars of the Kathmandu Valley, for example, speak Newari and there
are other languages spoken by the Tamangs, Sherpas, Rais, Limbus, Magars, Gurungs and
other groups. In the Terai, bordering India, Hindi and Maithali, another Indian language
of their region, are often spoken. Even if you can learn no other Nepali, there is one
word every visitor soon picks up - Namaste. Strictly translated it means I salute the god
in you, but it is used as an everyday greeting encompassing everything from Hello to How
are you? and even 'see you again soon'. Properly used it should be accompanied with the
hands held in a prayer like position, the Nepali gesture which is the equivalent of
westerners shaking hands.
Word Phrases (Basic)
English |
Nepali |
I |
ma |
Yes, (I have) |
chaa |
No (I don't have) |
chhaina |
OK |
theekcha |
Where |
kata or kahan |
Here |
yaha |
There |
tyaha |
Good/pretty |
ramro |
Room |
kotha |
Clean |
safa |
Dirty |
phohar/maila |
Fan |
pankhaa |
Please give me ... |
malai ... dinuhos |
Give me water |
paani dinuhos |
I want to sleep |
malai sutna man lagyo |
I feel cold |
malai jado lagya |
The food is cold |
khaana cheeso chha |
How much? |
kati? |
What is it made of? |
ke le
baneko? |
That's enough |
pugyo |
Where is the market |
bazar kata parcha |
I have a fever |
joro aayo |
I don't feel well |
malai sancho chhaina |
Help! |
guhaar! |
How are you? |
tapai lai kasto
chha? |
I am fine |
malai sancho chha |
What is your name |
tapai ko naam ke ho? |
My name is -- |
mero naam -- ho |
What time is it? |
aahile kati
bajyo? |
It's two o'clock |
aahile dui bajyo |
I speak a little Nepali |
ma ali nepali bolchhu |
I don't understand |
maile bujhuina |
Please say it again |
pheri bhannuhos |
Please speak slowly |
tapai bistari bolnuhos |
I don't need it |
malai chhahindaina |
I don't have it |
ma sanga chhaina |
Wait a minute |
ek chhin parkhanos |
Where is a hotel? |
hotel kahaa cha? |
Can I get a place to stay? |
yahan baas
pauncha? |
May I look at the room? |
ma kotha herna
sakchhu? |
Does it include breakfast |
bihanako khaana samet ho? |
How can I get -- ? |
-- kaha bata jane ho? |
Is it far from there? |
yahaabata ke taadhaa
chha? |
Where does this bus go? |
yo bus kahaa
jaanchha? |
How much does it cost to go to -- |
-- jana kati
parchha? |
I want one-way/return ticket. |
aaune/jaane-aaune tikat
dinuhos. |
1 |
ek |
2 |
dui |
3 |
teen |
4 |
char |
5 |
panch |
6 |
chha |
7 |
saat |
8 |
aath |
9 |
nau |
10 |
das |
Facts for the Visitor (Planning when to go)
Climate factors are very important in deciding on a visit to Nepal. October-November, the
start of the dry season, is in many ways the best time of the year in Nepal. With the
monsoon only recently finished the country-side is green and lush and Nepal is at its most
beautiful. Rice is harvested and there are some more important and colorful festivals to
enjoy. At this time of the year the air is sparkling clean, visibility is unexcelled and
the Himalayan views are as near perfect as you can ask. Further more the weather is still
balmy, neither too hot nor too cold. For obvious reasons, this is also the peak tourist
season.
In December-January the climate and visibility are still good, though it can get very
cold. Trekkers need to be well prepared, as snow can be encountered on high-altitude
treks. Heading for the Everest Base Camp at this time of the year can be a real feat of
endurance and the Annapurna Circuit trek is often closed by snow on the Thorang La pass.
Down in Kathmandu the cheaper hotels, where heating is non-existent, are often chilly and
gloomy in the evenings. There's sometimes a brief winter monsoon, lasting just a day or
two in January.
February-March-April, the tail end of the dry season, is good second-best time. The
weather gets warmer so high-altitude treks are no longer as arduous, although by the end
of the dry season, before the monsoon breaks, it starts to get too hot for comfort.
Visibility is not good as earlier in the dry season since the country is now very dry, and
dust in the air reduces that crystal Himalayan clarity. In compensation, Nepal's wonderful
rhododendrons and many other flowers are in bloom so there's plenty of color to be seen
along the trekking trails.
May and the early part of June are not the best months as it is extremely hot and dusty
and the coming monsoon hangs over you like a threat. Mid-June to September, when the
monsoon finally arrives, is the least popular time to visit Nepal. The rains wash the dust
out the air, but the clouds obscure the mountains so you're unlikely to enjoy more than a
rare glimpse of Himalaya. Although it doesn't rain all day it usually does rain everyday
and the trails will be muddy and plagued by leeches. Despite this, it is possible to trek
during the monsoon, although high rivers may further complicate matters and it's certainly
not as pleasant as other times of the year. Landslides sometimes block roads during the
monsoon but many visitors still come to Nepal form India as the weather is even less
pleasant down on the plains. The latter part of the monsoon, the months of
August-September, are a time of festivals which will certainly enliven a visit to
Kathmandu.
How Long to Visit
If you plan to visit during the monsoon, and your stay is restricted to the Kathmandu
Valley, a week is probably quite enough. During the dry season you really need more like a
month to enjoy the country: a week or two for Kathmandu and the surrounding area, a week
for a short trek, and a week for Pokhara and a visit to Royal Chitwan National Park. If
you wan to walk some of the longer trekking routes then you need to extend your visa - it
takes three weeks to walk the Annapurna Circuit.
What to Bring
Nepal's climate variations due to altitude mean that at certain times of year you'll have
to come prepared for almost anything. If you're in Nepal during the winter you'll find
it's T-shirt weather if you're tracking wildlife in the Terai, but up at the Everest Base
Camp you'll want the best thermal gear money can buy! In the Kathmandu Valley, the daytime
weather is pleasant year round, but in winter the temperature drops as soon as the sun
sets, or even goes behind a cloud. It never reaches freezing in the valley, however, so
it's sweater or warm-jacket weather, nothing worse. Climb higher to the valley edge at
Nagarkot and you can find it much colder. If you plan to ride a bike, or have a
respiratory problem, we suggest you to wear a mask. You will need an umbrella or raincoat
during the monsoon season, specially in Pokhara where rainfall is heavier than in
Kathmandu. A month after the monsoon it can be pleasantly warm. Sunglasses and skin creams
are necessary for those who have skin problem. Clothing is easily and cheaply available in
the market. If you need one, You can get one here. If you are visiting Wildlife Park or
other Terai areas, do not forget to bring insect repellent and a torch.
Visa
In order to enter Nepal, holders of European, American, Asian and other passports need a
visa for holiday or business purposes. All the passports must be valid at least six months
beyond the intended length of stay. Visitors arriving without Nepalese visa can receive a
15 day visa at the Airport immigration Counter. Single entry tourist visas are available
for 15 days ($15) or 30 days ($25), or you can also get multiple entry 60 days for ($60).
You also need passport size photos. One you get your visa, you must use it within three
months of the date it is issued.
Visa Extension
Tourist visa can be extended for 150 days plus 30 more days can be granted on reasonable
ground. Beyond 30 days of 180 days, you'll have to pay $ 1 per day for 150 days. One
passport size photo is required.
Customs
When you depart from Kathmandu, you may be searched very thoroughly. In addition to drugs,
customs is concerned with the illegal export of antiques. Visitors are allowed to bring
only few items from the duty free shop for their personal use only.
Credit Cards
Major credit cards are widely accepted in Kathmandu and Pokhara hotels, restaurants and
shops. Visitors can withdraw money through Visa /Master Card from Nepal Grindlays Bank and
AMEX Card through American Express office in Jamal. There is a standard 1% commission.
Money Transfer
You need to follow the right steps to transfer money from overseas. You have to select the
bank which is the branch of International Bank and make sure that you transfer by fax as
mail can take forever. Before you transfer your money, make sure that they have you name,
bank name & address exactly right. Do not forget to inform the bank in Kathmandu about
your transfer in advance.
Post
The postal service to and from Nepal is sometime slow otherwise it take only a week. Make
sure that you write down the name in bold and underline it and also do not forget to write
the post box number of the hotel that you are staying . E-mail & fax services are
available in most of the hotels and communication boots. There are few communication
booths in Pokhara for e-mail as well.
Airport Security
All luggage is X-rayed at Kathmandu airport on the way in and the way out of the country.
Films are supposed to be safe in X-ray machines but, if you are really concern about your
exposed films, please get them inspected manually.
Security
Nepal is generally very safe with one of the lowest crime rates of all countries. Travel
with children in Nepal, yet with a bit of planning it is remarkably hassle free. There is
no fear of special threats, but it is always wise to keep an eye on one's luggage in busy
areas. Pick-pockets are a world phenomenon.
Electricity
Electricity: 220 Volts, 50 Hz.
Shopping
Despite Nepal's lack of raw materials, shopping here is quite advanced. Curio arts,
Garment and Carpets are head the export list. Nepal's carpet industries are world
renowned. Apart from infinity variety of carpets, other hand made jewelry, thankas, block
prints, embroidery, Tibetan carpet, pottery, masks & puppets, metal work, tea and
other decorating items are among the best souvenirs you can buy here.
Currency
We have a special regulation on exchanging foreign currency. Foreign currency can be
exchanged only with the hotel cashier, banks and licensed establishments. Upon departure
15% of the amount exchanged can be converted on production of en-cash receipt.
International Calls
International calls can be made from any hotel telephone booth. The access code is
"00" followed by country code and so on (e.g. 00-81 for Japan). Most of the
public shops also have telephones, but international calls are usually not accessible.
However, there are plenty of private telephone booths around the streets of Kathmandu.
To dial into Nepal, dial your international access code followed by 977 (Nepal's
country code) and then the city code (1 for Kathmandu) and the phone number.
Food
Nepal also has it's own "Nepali cuisine". However, other cuisine like Indian,
Chinese, Italian, French, Japanese and Thai are available in most of the hotels and
restaurants. Among all, Nepali and Newari cuisine are very popular. Nepali favorite dish 'MOMO'
is world renowned.
Dal, Bhat, Kukhura ko Masu, Tarkari & Achar: A typical Nepali set meal consists of
Rice, Lentil, Chicken, Vegetables and Pickle.
Something to drink
Nepali Raksi is one of our traditional common drink. It is made out of rice, beaten rice.
People drink it in almost every special festivals in Kathmandu. However, we recommend you
not to try more than a peg because it is a very strong and burning drink. Nepal has also
produced different variety of world renowned beer (Tuborg, Carlsberg, San Miguel etc.). We
strictly recommend all our visitor not to drink water straight from the tap. A bottle of
mineral water is easily available in every shops.
Tipping
In our Nepali custom, tipping is not a big issue. People do not expect anything as a tip
from you in Nepal. Even in big hotels, they do not levy service charge. However, if you
feel like tipping, it's all up to you. Generally Rs. 50 - Rs. 100 is quite sufficient.
Taxi drivers don't expect to be tipped.
Getting in and getting out of Nepal
Several airlines have direct and non-stop flights from Europe and Asia to Tribhuvan
International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu, the only international airport in Nepal. The
national carrier, Royal Nepal Airlines Corporation, RNAC, has flights to eight
international cities in seven different countries. One can enter Nepal by land from India.
The most common entry points are Kakarbhitta (eastern Nepal), Birgunj and Bhairahawa
(South Central Nepal).
Getting Around
Larger towns like Kathmandu and Pokhara have taxis which is good to explore Kathmandu
Valley in a group. Metered taxis are easily available with black license plates. You can
also hire a private car for half-day and one day sight seeing. For getting around in
Thamel , Indrachowk and Durbar Marg, Rikshaw (three wheeled man paddled cycle) is the best
source of transportation. You can also get one with the motorcycle engine. For organized
tours, please see our Travel Agency chapter.
Road Regulations
Driver must keep to the left side of the road, and can pass on the left and right
according to the traffic signs. There are no speed limit zones. An average driving speed
inside Kathmandu valley is 40-50 Km/h (25-32 M/h). For your safety, seat belts must be
worn in front seats.
Drivers' Licenses
International Drivers' License is required. The minimum driving age is 18 years. Car
rental companies reserves the right to set their own limits. However we recommend getting
the services of a driver.
Office Hours
Organization |
Open |
Closed |
Govt. Offices |
Sun-Thu, 10:00 to 17:00 |
Fri 10:00 to 14:00 |
Saturday |
Nepal Bank Ltd. |
Sun-Thu, 10:00 to 17:00 |
Fri 10:00 to 14:00 |
Saturday |
Public Banks |
Sun-Thu, 10:00 to 17:00 |
Fri 10:00 to 14:00 |
Saturday |
Post Office |
Sun-Thu, 10:00 to 17:00 |
Fri 10:00 to 14:00 |
Saturday |
Shops |
Sun-Fri, 09:00 to 20:00 |
Saturday |
Visitor's Guide to Sacred Sites
- Entry to most temples, stupas and shrines is not restricted. However, some sensitive
religious enclosures and sites may prohibit entry. Signboards are displayed.
- If you wish to enter a shrine, where allowed, you may go around in a clockwise
direction. We believe in putting our Gods to our right when circling the shrine.
- The front side of the shrines are usually marked by a lotus carved stone on the pavement
or a slightly recessed square pit. The image of the carrier of the deity or symbol may be
seen on the pedestal in front. These define the territoriality of the shrine. Reference to
these elements will put you in a proper perspective.
- Photography is generally not prohibited. However there are some facades or images where
photography is restricted. Watch for these or ask the guards. If you wish to be more
considerate, do not use flashlights inside when someone is worshipping.
- Do not take any photograph of someone performing his ritual without a prior permission.
- Nepal's attitude towards religion is very tolerant one, and many different religions
flourish and mingle here.
- Leather products, such as belts, jackets, shoes and bags are prohibited in most
religious places. Please leave them outside. Your friend or the watchman will take care of
these while you are inside.
- We advice you not to touch offerings or person when they are on the way to shrines or
are in the process of worshipping. Keep a respectful distance.
- Apart from worshipping of the image, many sensitive rituals are also practiced by the
believers around the shrines. These may be related to festive occasions situations. By
carefully watching the behavior of local onlookers, you can self behave sensitively.
- If you have meat in you lunch pack, we advise you to eat at some distance from the
shrine precincts. Some of our Gods do not permit animal sacrifices.
- Do not encourage beggars or roaming artifacts vendors around the shrines by giving money
or bargaining as you walk.
- Please do not accept any gifts or buy objects of art, manuscripts, images etc. which
have antique value. These need to stay here not only for ourselves but for future visitors
like yourself who would like to share the experience. Whether something is antique or not
can be established by the Department of Archaeology.
For Further Information Please Contact
Office |
Phone |
Fax |
Ministry of Tourism & Civil Aviation |
228847 |
227758 |
Department of Tourism |
247037 |
227281 |
Nepal Association of Travel Agents NATA) |
211759 |
411764 |
Hotel Association of Nepal (HAN) |
412705 |
417133 |
Trekking Agents of Nepal |
419245 |
419245 |
Nepal Association of Rafting Agents |
221197 |
|
Nepal Mountaineering Association |
411525 |
416278 |
Tourist Guide Association of Nepal |
225102 |
247076 |
Nepal Incentive & Convention Association |
535036 |
527724 |
Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Nepal |
224266 |
224266 |
|