A Majestic View of Annapurna Himalayan Range

The Pokhara Valley, a land of spectacular beauty crowned by the majestic Himalayas, conjures visions of calm but vibrant green hills. Loaded with luxuriant vegetation and dotted with shimmering lakes, the valley offers awesome vistas. Magnificent image of Mount Machhapuchhare reflected in the clear waters of the Lake Phewa leaves everyone spellbound. One of the Nepal’s adventure hubs, it has reputation of being the second home for the tourists worldwide.

Pokhara is situated at an altitude of 730 meters to 1030 meters. Its rich topographical conditions are responsible for the profusion of flora and fauna. The geographical location has made Pokhara one of the biggest valleys in Nepal. The valley is encircled by lush green hills ranging in height from 1077 meters in the South East of 2738 meters in the North East. Snow clad mountains add a special radiance to the valley. They also form snow-fed rivers that run through the heart of the valley.

The geographical studies reveal that centuries ago a glacier was formed in the valley. As the time passed, the temperatures steadily increased and the solid ice melted and formed a river that began flowing, cutting into the soil of Pokhara. The regular flow of glacial waters created several underground tunnels. Currently, most of these tunnels are dry and are found in the form of caves.

However, Dr. Harka Gurung (Nepal Geographical Society, The Himalayan Review Vol. 11-111, 1969) a renowned geologist of Nepal, holds a different opinion altogether. He believes the uplifting of the southern hills formed the plains of Pokhara, and subsequently diverted the Seti River from south to north-west forming the Seti Gorge. Over the years, a dense jungle covered the valley and several lakes and ponds were formed. The people from various places began to migrate to the valley in search of a fertile land and lively environment. Those early settlers found the valley an ideal place to live in as it was rich in water, good soil, and vegetation.

Among other advantages, the valley is popular for many different ethnic groups known for their rich art and cultural heritage. The combination of stunning natural beauty and spectacular art and culture has attracted visitors to the Pokhara Valley.

According to a popular legend, during the Mahabharata era, Bhim, one of the five Pandava brothers, visited a place called Hamada, 15km. from Pokhara. Bhim went looking for a Lotus called Rukh Kamal ( a species of lotus that blooms on the tree) to please his wife, Dropadi. Those days Pokhara was a vast lake circled by high mountains. Since the deep water blocked Bhim’s search, he made a gash with his sword. As a result, the water drained out and he was able to pluck Rukh Kamals for his beloved wife. The place was later named Bhimad after this Herculean eic helo from The Mahabharata.

Several popular legends prevail in the valley. According to a legend, the valley is a perfect place where people of diverse origins live in perfect heaven. They freely participate in the religious and cultural activities of one another without a cast or creed bias.

Pokhara is also recognized as one of the major destinations for adventure tourism. Micro-light flying, paragliding, rafting, sightseeing, boating, pony trekking and caving are extremely popular form of adventure tourism. The visitors will certainly find such new places worth visiting. Such new places will further whet up the tourists’ interest in more exotic places around Pokhara.

Geographical facts

Pokhara is the district headquarters of the Western Region Development. The valley lies between 83 degrees 58’ 30” E longitude and 28 degrees 16’ N latitude. Situated at elevation ranges from 627m to 980m above sea level, it covers an area of 123 sq. kms surrounded by high mountains. The total area of Pokhara Sub-Metropolitan City is 55.66 sq. kms as compared to Lekhnath municipality which is 77.75 sq.ms. The present population growth rate is about 7.41%.

Climate

Pokhara has a mild climate ranging from a maximum of 35 degrees centigrade in summer down to 10 degrees centigrade in the coldest month of January. The green hills and snow-capped mountains play an important role in keeping the temperature relatively cool, even in the scorching heat of the summer. In general, the humidity is higher in the morning than in the evening.

On average, the Monsoon season begins in Pokhara around April. The beginning of April brings torrential downpours with sudden strong winds and storms. The rainfall becomes more intense during the months of July, August and September. Pokhara receives heavy rainfall when the warm and humid winds from the Bay o Bengal and the Arabian Sea form heavy clouds over the valley. For this reason, the valley is also known as Cherapunji of Nepal, Cherapunji being the Indian town that receives the highest rainfall in the world. The heavy rainfalls gradually die down and the weather is clear from October to February. The lighter winter rains in the valley are from January to March.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Pokhara are Ocotber and November, in autumn; and February, March and April in spring. During these months, the overall climate of Pokhara is conducive for sightseeing, trekking, white water rafting and paragliding. The trekkers will have excellent clear days for trekking in the Annapurna region during December and January. Kathmandu is shrouded in mists that envelop the city until mid-day.; Pokhara has very clear weather with the sun shining and the sky bright blue. The tourists can feast on the lofty snow-covered Annapurnas sprawling along the valley. Sarangkot is the heavenly point to have exhilarating views of the valley. The tourists visiting during the Monsoon season may not be as fortunate as the torrential rains cause landslides and avalanches throughout Nepal.

Tourism Office Center/Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP)

The Tourism Office Center is situated at Nagdhunga, next door to Hotel Crystal, opposite Pokhara airport. It is within easy reach of the Lakeside and the Damside. The tourists can get Pokhara maps, brochures and important information at the centre.

The ACAP office is within a walking distance from the Rastra Bank Chowk. The tourists can take an easy walk to reach this office. The visitors interested in trekking around Annapurna Conservation area Project (ACAP) (Ph. 430820) should contact at the ACAP office to receive entry permits. The trekkers can get useful information important for trekking around Annapurna region. The foreign and SAARC nations visitors have to pay Rs. 2000 and Rs. 200 for trekking permit respectively. To apply for the trekking permit, the visitors require filling an application form along with two photographs.

Transport

There are several convenient ways of getting to and from Pokhara and to other places in Nepal or India. The quickest is going by air. Kathmandu to Pokhara takes roughly 25 minutes. There are frequent flights throughout the day and the cost is reasonable. The tourists can get an excellent view of the Himalayas and the captivating landscape of countryside while traveling by bus.

The other alternative is by the road. Kathmandu to Pokhara is about a 6-hour drive and that including a lunch break. You can take a deluxe tourist bus, a mini tourist bus, a taxi or hire a vehicle that can be a car, mini-bus or four-wheel drive. You can hire a vehicle that can be more convenient as you can work out your own schedule economically. Any of these options are cheaper than flying, especially if there is more than one person. The journey is very enjoyable as you can enjoy the natural landscapes of the countryside.

Whichever way you choose to travel your hotel, guesthouse or lodge will be very pleasant to arrange for you. This also applies to trekking, white-water rafting, visiting local beauty spots, places of interest, or safari parks, micro light flights, paragliding and going by cable car to the world famous beautiful Manakamana Temple.

Hospital/Pharmacy

Many small pharmacies along the street of Phewa Lake and Damside provide doctor’s service on request. For serious medical problems, the tourists can visit Srijana Chowk, Mahendrapool, or Gairapatan where some of Pokhara’s best private hospitals are located with emergency facilities. Charak Hospital and Research Center lies at Damside near Rastrabank Chowk with twenty-four hours emergency service. This is the nearest hospital from the Lakeside. The Western Regional Hospital (Gandaki Hospital) is located at Ramghat. Since Government runs this hospital, medicines and check up charges are much cheaper than private clinics.

Supermarkets

Pokhara has some well-maintained shopping malls at Mahendrapool, Chipledhunga,New Road and Lakeside. Being a tourist’s area, the prices are little more expensive at the Lakeside than other places. Saleways Departmental Store, Mahendrapool, Park & Shop Departmental Store, B.P Chowk, Munal Stores, B.P Chowk, U.F.O., Siddhartha Chowk have some well-maintained Departmental Stores. A newly opened Bhat Bhatani, super martket is in New Road, where you can get all the goods you want, from everything small to big. There are several General provisional Shops along the roadsides at the Lakeside and Damside.

Fruits and Vegetable Market

Selling vegetables on carts is a common sight in Pokhara. However, if the visitors wish to buy varieties of vegetables and fruits from one place, they have to come up Chipledhunga, beside Siddhartha Club.

Tourist’s Police

The Police are always vigilant around the Lakeside and Damside area. They are especially careful about the safety and security of the tourists. There is a police station nearby Lakeside. Another station lies in Baidam, near Hotel Kantipur. Te tourists can lodge any complain in case they need to do so, or you can dial 521087.

Post Office

Pokhara’s main post office lies on the busy Mahendrapool road. It takes about one hour to reach the post office from Lakeside/Damside. There is yet another post office at Pardi, Pardi Post Office (PPo). It is quite closer from the Lakeside and the Damside. These post offices remain open from Sunday 10am to Thursday 5pm. On Fridays, they remain open from 10am to 3pm. The tourists can take a leisurely walk for about thirt minutes from the Lakeside to reach the Pardi Post Office.

Accommodation

Most of the visitors prefer to stay near Phewa Lake and Damside. Yet, the Indian visitors and business class people prefer to stay near the city at Prithvi Chowk and Mahendrapool.

The prices are reasonable in the majority of hotels and sometimes negotiable. The room charges are higher in the peak seasons the October, November, and the February to April. During the off seasons, prices go down dramatically. Some hoteliers even declare and impressive discount even up to 50% off the room rate during the off-seasons. There are many restaurants in Pokhara, serving cuisines from all over the world. The prices are reasonable whereas some very cheap depending on their class and location. Normally prices are expensive around Lakeside and Damside but cheaper around Prithvi Chowk, Mahendrapool and Chipledhunga, the downtown Pokhara.

Meditation and Yoga

Pokhara has a few Meditation and Yoga centers for the Western visitors. Garden Yiga Chozin Buddhist Center is a popular meditation center lies on the north of Lakeside. Regular courses with residential facilities are designed for the Western and Asian visitors. A well-maintained library remains an added facility of the center.

Sadhana Yoga Ashram (tel.464601) offers one-day yogic cleansing and hatha yoga. Besides, Sadhana Yoga has also developed longer residential courses meanwhile, in recent times, some unqualified and unscrupulous people including some foreigners giving lessons in Yoga and meditation. Many of these centers are not registered and therefore illegal. The visitors are advised not to visit such unauthorized yoga and meditation centers and take precaution.

Pokhara Kitchen

The tourists can enjoy popular Nepali cuisines in Pokhara. Newari foods especially meat and buff varieties are extremely popular among the locals. However, they are bit oily and spicy. Besides, everyone seems fond of the Thakali foods. The visitors can have a taste of Thakali foods available at the restaurants around Mahendraool, Prithvi Chowk, Lakeside and Damside.

Entertainment

There are a few cinema halls at Mahendrapool, Chipledhunga, Tersapatti, and Ram Basaar, Hindi and Nepali cinemas are screened on these cinema theaters. However, on and off they do screen English cinema as well. Several videocassette ships are found across the town that sell latest movie CDs. Lok Dohori (Folk Duets) cassettes are on high demand.

Religions and Population

There are about sixty ethnic groups, over hundred languages and dialects and more than eight religions in Nepal. Though Nepal was the only Hindu country, varieties of other religions flourish here. Even if the majority of Nepalese follow Hinduism and Buddhism, one can find a unique example of religious tolerance and fraternity among the people.

Population

According to the first population census held in 1956 the population of Pokhara was about 13,000. It rose to 20,611 in 1971 and to 36,010 in 1978. Because of speedy urbanization, the population growth of pokhara rose rapidly and, currently the population of Pokhara is approx. 300,000 (2012).

The population census held in 1988 reveals the fact that Brahmins 23.11%, Gurungs 20.92%, Cheetri 18.70%, Newars 15.60%, Magars 4.46%, Kamis 3.41%, Sarkis 2.78%, Pariyars 2.47%, Thakalis 1.53%, Muslims 1.00%, and others 5.93% live in Pokhara. The major ethnic groups living in Pokhara are Brahmins, Chhetris, Gurungs, Thakalis, Newars, Gaines and Muslims.

Nagarkot Hiking with view of great himalayas.

Nagarkot Hill(2175m) is a popular tourist hill of Nepal. It is situated 32 km east of Kathmandu at an altitude of 2175m.The sunrise viewed from this hill present you the ever-refreshing memory of the majestic panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges from Dhaulagiri in the west and Mt. Everest in the east. On the way you can observe the historic and cultural town at Changunarayan temple. Start your hiking from nagarkot village. Take the graveled road and local trail to changunarayan temple. You shall pass through the pine forests, terraces and the typical Villages. You can see the Bhaktapur Village very near to you and the beautiful Kathmandu Valley at the far distance from Changunarayan temple and the splendid view of the Himalayas on the way. Changunarayan temple is one of the oldest temples in the valley. It is said to have been built by King Hari Dutta in 323 AD. It has listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Monument List in 1979. After visiting this temple we drive back to Kathmandu. This hike consists of about 4 hours walk.

 

Nagarkot is located 32 kms, east of Kathmandu, Nepal. Nagarkot thrills visitors with its unrestricted view of the mountain range from Annapurna in the west to the mighty Everest in the East.The hotel is a 30-minute drive from Bhaktapur, a 45-minute drive from Tribhuvan International Airport and an hour’s drive from Kathmandu. Taking a helicopter, it is just a 7-minutes’ ride from Tribuhavan International Airport.

Historically, Nagarkot was a place for the royals of Nepal to escape the scorching heat of summer and a hectic city life. In the 60’s explorers would battle the shivering winds and

sleepless nights to see the stupendous sunrise and sunsets. Today, still people from all over World, from different walks of life, travel to Nagarkot, to enjoy the picturesque rural scenery of terraced rice fields, green pastures, the sunrise and sunsets; but all in the comforts of a world renowned hotel- Club Himalaya.

• 7200 ft above sea level : ideal for acclimatization if you are going to high altitude treks or to Tibet or Bhutan .
• Summer (May-September) : Nagarkot is windy throughout the year and is 7 Deg C cooler than Kathmandu in summers
• Himalayan View : One can view Mt Everest on the North – East to the Annapurna in the North- West with a maximum range of the Himalayan peaks.
  
• Full of legends & History :
  • Birth of the world – Mahadev Pokhari
  • Birth of Kathmandu – Manjushree gufa
  • Unification of Nepal – Prithivi Narayan Shah & his Fort
  • Summer Palace of the Ranas – Bhangeri Durbar
  • Sun Risies & Sets with hashish – The Hippie era
• So near, yet so far away from the hustle and bustle of caotic Kathmandu
• Near the international airport (25km/45minutes) ideal to relax and recover*recoup from jet lag before starting a hectic tour or trekking.
  
  
• Village walks to experience rural Nepal – Tamang, Newar, Chhetri & Bahun villages within walking distance.
• Nagarkot now a tourist hub with many hotels and restaurants to choose from.
• Forest walks to see the flora and fauna o the hills as well as bird watching.
• Club Himalaya is the jewel on the crown of Nagarkot.
• Mountain biking or hiking to Changunarayan, Bhaktapur or Swayambhu.

कहिले नदेखेकाहरुले देखे पछि के गर्लान् ???

नेपाल एउटा यस्तो देश हो, जहाँ प्रकृतिको हरेक सुन्दरता हेर्न पाइन्छ । भनिन्छ यहाँका नदिनालाका कलकल आवाजले मधुर धुन निकाल्छन् । कोइली चरीको कुहुकुहु अनि झ्याउँकिरीको झ्याउँ झ्याउँमा मन्त्र मुग्ध हुन पाइन्छ । यहाँका हिमालहरुले नेपालको गौरवलाई अर्झ चित्रित गर्दछ । यस्ता कयौं ठाउँहरु यहाँ छन् जुन यहाँ यसप्रकार वर्णन गरीन्छ ।

KATHMANDU CITY- Nowhere in the world can one find the same concentration of culture, art and tradition that exits in Kathmandu valley. Once known as Kantipur, Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal. The city is a concentration of temples. Near the Durbar Square is the residence of Kumari the Virgin Goddess who acknowledges the greetings of the devotees from the balcony of her temple residence. Kasthmandap, the source of the name of Kathmandu. Hanuman Dhoka the ancient palace of the Nepalese Royalty.

PATAN CITY known as Lalitpur is 6 Km south of Kathmandu city. It is full of Buddhist monuments, Hindu temples and the ancient Palace. Patan city is noted for wood carving and metal works. It is also known as city of artists.

BHAKTAPUR CITY also known as Bhadgaon is 12 Km east of Kathmandu city, is the home of medieval art and architecture. The main square of the city contains innumerable temples and other architectural showpieces - the Lion Gate, the Palace of 55 windows, the Batsala temple and the Nyatapola temple.

TEMPLES :

SOYAMBHUNATH Buddhist stupa is said to be over 2000 years old and one of the world's most glorious Buddhist Chaityas is 4 Km west of Kathmandu city and situated on the hillock from where one can have a spectacular view of Kathmandu city.

BOUDHANATH is 7 Km east of Kathmandu city. It is one of the biggest Stupas in the world. The Stupa is ringed by houses of Lamas and Monasteries.

PASHUPATINATH situated on the bank of Bagmati river is 6 Km east of Kathmandu city. The temple is in pagoda style with gilt roof and richly carved silver doors. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

DAKSHINKALI  temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali, a Hindu Goddess of power. It is 18 Km south of Kathmandu city. Every Tuesday and Saturday animals are sacrificed at the pith of Kali.

CHANGU NARAYAN built in 4th century on a hill top, 16 Km north east of Kathmandu city. It is known for stone sculptures and carvings. A sweeping view of the surrounding country side can be seen from this temple.

 MOUNTAIN PANORAMA :

DHULIKHEL is situated 30 Km north east of Kathmandu city on Kodari highway at an altitude of 1,675 meter (5,500 ft) above the sea level. From here one can have a panoramic view of Himalayas on a clear day.

 NAGARKOT is at an altitude of 2175 mt./ 7122 ft. above sea level, 32 Km north east of Kathmandu city. On a clear day, long range of Himalayas including Mt. Everest can be seen from here.

 DAMAN, at 2322 mt./ 7616 ft. above the sea level lies 80 Km south of Kathmandu city on Tribhuvan highway. The best place to have view of highest peaks, Dhaulagiri in the west to Mt. Everest in the east.

 EXCURSIONS OUTSIDE KATHMANDU VALLEY :

POKHARA valley, a most popular tourist destination in Nepal, is 200 Km west of Kathmandu city. Nestles beneath the Annapurna range of the western Himalayas, Pokhara has many exotic places of interest such as the Seti River Gorge, Mahendra Cave, Devi's Falls and the famous lake Phewa its still water displaying stunning reflections of the majestic Fish Tail and Annapurna Himalayas. It is base for all treks to Annapurna region.

LUMBINI is the birth place of Lord Buddha, the apostle of peace, compassion and non-violence. It is 310 Km to the south west of Kathmandu city. Lumbini garden complex has a stone pillar commemorating the visit of Emperor Ashoka around 250 BC.

ROYAL CHITWAN NATIONAL PARK is situated in the Rapti valley about 150 Km south of Kathmandu. It is the richest wildlife reserve in Nepal and one of the best in Asia. Occupying an area of  932 Sq Km, this park is home to one-third of the entire one-horned rhinos population in the world. The Bengal Tiger is one of the main attraction in this park. Visitors at the Royal Chitwan Park are also likely to see leopards, gaurs, wild buffaloes, sloth bears, wild boars, various species of deer and march, and mugger crocodiles. More than 400 species of birds have been identified here making it a paradise for bird watchers.

And Many more green village and other natural beauty...

2013 Krishna Janmashtami 

Fasting Rules on Krishna Janmashtami

No grains should be consumed during Janmashtami fasting until the fast is broken on next day after Sunrise. All rules followed during Ekadashi fasting should be followed during Janmashtami fasting also.

Parana which means breaking the fast should be done at an appropriate time. For Krishna Janmashtami fasting, Parana is done on next day after Sunrise when Ashtami Tithi and Rohini Nakshatra are over. If Ashtami Tithi and Rohini Nakshatra don't get over before Sunset then fast can be broken during day time when either Ashtami Tithi or Rohini Nakshatra is over. When neither Ashtami Tithi nor Rohini Nakshatra is over before Sunset or even Hindu Midnight (also known as Nishita Time) one should wait to get them over before breaking the fast.  

Depending on end timing of Ashtami Tithi and Rohini Nakshatra fasting on Krishna Janmashtami might continue for two complete days. Devotees who are not able to follow two days fasting might break the fast on next day after Sunrise. It has been suggested by Hindu religious text Dharmasindhu.

About Two Krishna Janmashtami Dates

Most of the time, Krishna Janmashtami is listed on two consecutive days. The first one is for Smarta Sampradaya and other one is for Vaishanava Sampradaya. Vaishanava Sampradaya date is the latter one. A single date for Janmashtami means that both Sampradaya would observe Janmashtami on the same date.

However many people will notice unanimity in North India on choosing the day to celebrate Krishna Janmashtami. The reason behind this unanimity is the institution of ISKCON. The International Society for Krishna Consciousness, commonly known as ISKCON is founded on the principles of Vaishnava traditions and most followers of the ISKCON are the followers of Vaishnavism. 

With all due respect, ISKCON is one of the most commercialized and global religious institutions which spend money and resources to promote ISKCON brand and ISKCON culture. In North India most people observe Janmashtami on the day chosen by ISKCON. Many people who are not the followers of Vaishnavism don't even understand that ISKCON traditions are different and the most appropriate day to observer Janmashtami fasting might not be same as that of ISKCON.

Smarta followers who understand the difference between Smarta and Vaishnava sectarian don't follow ISKCON date to observer Janmashtami fasting. Unfortunately ISKCON date to observer Janmashtami is unanimously followed in Braj region and most common people who just follow the buzz observe it on the date followed by the ISKCON.

People who are not the followers of Vaishnavism are followers of Smartism. Hindu religious texts likeDharmasindhu and Nirnaysindhu have well defined rules to decide Janmashtami day and those rules should be followed to decide Janmashtami day if one is not the follower of Vaishnava Sampradaya. Ekadashi fasting is one of the good examples to understand this difference. Rules to observe Ekadashis' fasting are also different for Smarta and Vaishnava communities. However there is more awareness about different Ekadashi rules followed by Vaishnava sectarian. Not only Ekadashis, Vaishnava fasting day for Janmashtami and Rama Navami might be one day later than Smarta fasting day.

The followers of Vaishnavism give preference to Ashtami Tithi and Rohini Nakshatra. The followers of Vaishnavism never observe Janmashtami on Saptami Tithi. Janmashtami day according to Vaishnava rules always fall on Ashtami or Navami Tithi on Hindu calendar.

However rules followed by Smartism to decide Janmashtami day are more complex. The preference is given toNishita or Hindu midnight. The preference is given to the day, either Saptami Tithi or Ashtami Tithi, when Ashtami Tithi prevails during Nishita and further rules are added to include Rohini Nakshatra. The final consideration is given to the day which has the most auspicious combination of Ashtami Tithi and Rohini Nakshatra during Nishita time. Janmashtami day according to Smarta rules always fall on Saptami or Ashtami Tithi on Hindu calendar.

This page list Janmashtami according to Smarta Sampradaya and make a footer note if it doesn't coincide with Janmashtami day observed by the ISKCON.

Krishna Janmashtami is also known as Krishnashtami, Gokulashtami, Ashtami Rohini, Srikrishna Jayanti andSree Jayanthi.

Monsoon fury claims at least 20, many missing !!

KATHMANDU, JUN 19 -
ekantipur.comIncessant rains of the past few days continue to cause disaster and loss of human lives across the country.

As of Tuesday evening, at least 20 people are dead and as many are missing in flood s and landslides reported from different parts of the country in the last three days. The number of displaced is in hundreds.

Authorities, however, are yet to ascertain the actual number of casualty and damage incurred so far. The disaster has mainly hit the western part of Nepal.

Floods and landslides accounted for at least seven deaths in the Far-western region alone. Four members of a family died and the fifth member went missing in Siddheshwor-9 of Baitadi when their house came on the path of a landslide on Monday night. In Doti, a man died in a landslide at Simchaur-4. Similarly, a man from Gugada-4 went missing in Rauwa River. A mother and her daughter from Kuntebadali-3 in Achham died when a landslide crushed their house. An eight-year-old

boy from Jogbuda-4 of Achham has also gone missing in Sadani River. In Bajhang, two men from Lekgaon-7 were swept away trying to cross a local river. The duo is missing since Monday.Meanwhile, flood s in the Mahakali and Karnali rivers have caused a huge damage to properties and displaced hundreds of families in the Far-western districts of Darchula, Dadeldhura, Kanchanpur and Kailali. The raging Mahakali river destroyed more than 60 houses in Darchula, while many more are vulnerable to flood . At least 2,500 people were displaced. The victims have complained of delay in the rescue and relief works. The river has flood ed at least six villages in inner Tarai region of Dadeldhura. Police said 52 families were displaced. In Kanchanpur, flood waters from Mahakali inundated many riverside settlements at Bhum Dutta Municipality-11, displacing at least 22 families.

Flood in the Karnali river has affected many villages in the southeast region of Kailali, inundating large areas in Tikapur Municipality and the VDCs of Lalbojhi, Bhajani, Thapapur and Khailad. Karnali flood has also caused damage to a cofferdam of the the Ranijamara Irrigation Project. The flood has also swept away construction materials from the project site.

Incessant rains for the last three days have also affected the Mid-western region of the country. At least four persons died and 11 others went missing in Kalikot district when a flood at Sannigaad River swept them away on Monday night. Floods and landslides in the district have displaced at least 27 families.

Seven members of a family in Malika-2 of Dailekh district were killed when their house collapsed on Monday night. Floods at Karnali and Ramagaad rivers have swept away at least 35 houses.

The status of four family members missing after Sunday night’s landslide in Muchu-9 of Humla district also remains unknown.

In Bardiya, flood waters from Karnali River have deluged around 2,000 houses. The flood has greatly affected the Daulatpur VDC of Rajapur Tappu region. More than 1,000 people from the VDC has moved to safety. Authorities said more than 600 families in Khairichandanpur VDC are at great risk of flood and in need of immediate rescue. Deputy Superintendent of Police Yamuna Rajak said continuous rain affected the rescue works.

Seven families from Phopli-7 in Pyuthan were displaced after a landslide on Monday night. Landslides also damaged four houses in Dhanbang and Garpa villages in Salyan. Heavy rainfall and flood waters from the Rapti river have flood ed Deukhuri region and adjoining areas in Dang.

Floods and landslides also obstructed the transport service in various Mid-western districts.

In Nawalparasi, as many as 12 villages situated close to the Narayani river were flood ed, leaving many more villages at the Gandak Dam area at risk. Narayani has swept away 12 spurs along the dam. Residents living close to the dam have urged the government coordinate with the Indian government and initiate immediate measures to resettle them to safety.

Three persons died after being swept away by swollen rivers in Rupandehi, Rautahat and Gulmi districts on Tuesday.

Massive floods in Mahakali River, 6 killed (UPDATE)
By I Live in Kathmandu City

NEPALGUNJ/ DADELDHURA, JUN 18 - Massive flood s in the Mahakali River has claimed six lives in Achham and Baitadi districts.

One Minendra Bogati's wife and daughter were killed when hishouse collapsed at Kuntibandali VDC-3 of Achham district on Tuesday morning.

Likewise, four people have been killed and one went missing when a house collapsed at Siddheshwor-9, Kholakhopde of Baitadi district. House belonging to Ram Singh Iyer collapsed on Monday night.

According to police, Iyer’s daughter-in-law Sita, 26, one-year-old son Arjun, three-year-old daughter Bindeshwori and his wife Kalawati’s dead bodies have been recovered. However, 12-year-old son Parmeshwor is still missing.

According to Gaguda VDCs former Chairman Ganesh Bogati, one Devi Bogati, 49, of Gaguda went missing while trying to cross local Rouwa River.

Likewise, eight families have been displaced in Dhungaad after water level rose in the Seti River.

Meanwhile, Darchula headquarters Khananga administration has called an emergency meeting after flood s swept away 79 houses including 11 government offices in the district. A newly built bridge has also been swept away by the flood this morning.

Likewise, around 150 families have been rendered homeless due the flood s at Dodhara and Chadani of Kanchanpur and Bhimdutta Municipality-11.

Likewise, 30 families have been displaced by the flood at Sundarpur Tole of Kuda VDC-7.

Four days of continuous rainfall increased the water level in Mahakali , causing flood waters to breach its banks and enter riverside settlements.

Police said incessant rainfall has affected relief and rescue works.

The water flow rate in Mahakali reached 440,716 cusec on Monday afternoon. It subsided to 374,000 cusec in the evening. When the monsoon was picking up last year, the water flow in the river was measured at 398,000 cusec.

3 offices among 53 houses swept away in Darchula

Mahakali bursts banks; wreaks havoc in Darchula

The Mahakali River has burst its banks in the Darchula District headquarters and has inundated large swathes of land in the area.
Darchula District Police Office said that the river has been flooded following heavy rains last night. The office said that 14 houses, four temples, three government offices and 17 huts have been swept away by the flood.

तस्बिर सौजन्य : नेपाल आर्मी
An official said that the local administration has ordered people living along the banks of the river to evacuate. He informed that as there were no embankments along the river, the river has burst its banks.
The river has swept away Kalagadh Micro Hydro project's power house and its transformer. Local police said that the District Education Office's Resource centre's two-storied building and the District Hospital's morgue have been swept away. Similarly, houses have collapsed in Rigaune Tal, Brahmadev and Khalanga-2.
District Police Office Darchula reported that its barracks have been evacuated in view of the flood. Road leading to the district headquarters have been obstructed in many places.
Sixty police personnel from District Police Office and 50 Nepal Army personnel are carrying out relief and rescue work in areas worst hit by the deluge. Meanwhile, Sarswoti Rakhaula (38) from Dhap VDC has gone missing in the river. nepalnews.com

KANCHANPUR, JUN 17 - At least 53 families have been rendered homeless in Darchula district after their houses were swept away by the flood ing Mahakali river. Khalanga, the district headquarters, has become chaotic causing panic among the residents as heavy rain continues to cause flooding.
One Saraswati Raikhola, 30, of Dhap-5, has gone missing since this morning after she left for collecting logs nearby the banks of the flood ed river. She is feared dead, locals said.
A government office building that collapsed due to the floods in the Mahakali river. 

 Likewise, the raging river has swept away Education Training Centre, District Forest Office, some six houses at Galfai, one clinic, Tatopani Temple and four shops at Chapari among other houses.
Also, a micro hydropower project at the Brahmadev Kalagadi river have been swept away. According to DSP Kuber Kadaya, the patients of the district hospital have been moved to safety places as the flood ing river has posed a risk to the hospital.
The swollen river has also inundated Titreyaghat area in Bhimdarshan Municipality-13 of Kanchanpur district.
The Soil Conservation Office and District Development Office and Khullamanch, among other places, have been declared to be at high risk.
Twenty-three sand miners have been stranded in the middle of Titreyaghat due to the flood .
Around 30 huts were swept away on Sunday night in Bagabagad and Rigneta of Khlanga-5.  A joint team of Nepal Army, Armed Police Force, and Nepal Police have been deployed for rescue operation since early this morning. But the security personnel have been facing difficulty due to incessant rainfall.
At least 20 houses were swept away in Dharchula bazaar, a bordering town of India.
Meanwhile, Baitadi District Administration have issued a notice, alerting the people living on the banks of the Mahakali following massive increase in the water current of the river.

महाकालीले एक दर्जन घर बगायो (फोटो फिचरसहित)

• सरकारी कार्यालय लगायत दुई दर्जन घर जोखिममा

• जोलजिवीको पुरानो झोलुंगे पुल बग्यो

• भारतमा रहेको जिआर क्याम्पको भवन पनि भत्कियो

जोखिममा रहेको नेपाल-भारत जोड्ने पुल र घरहरु । यो तस्विर आइतवार दिउँसो लिइएको हो । अहिले नदीको बाढीले घर छुन थालेको छ ।



घाटबजारको रिडल तालबस्तीका घर छाप्राहरु । आइतवार सम्म रहेका यी घरहरु सोमवार बिहानको बाढीले बगाएको छ ।



पारी भारतले आफ्नो क्षेत्रलाई बाढीबाट सुरक्षित पार्नका लागि निर्माण गरिएको तटबन्ध ।
Source:ekantipur

Grand Yartung Festival in Manang

by adventure mission Nepal

 April 9, 2013

Summer trek for horse racing festival and stunning views of Annapurna’s

Manang, the land behind the Himalayas has its unique culture and landscape. Manang has many characteristics similar to Tibet, which lies next to the border.  There are many similarities between Tibet and Manang in terms of daily life, religion and the festivals they celebrate. Among many festivals in the region the horse racing festival called Grand Yartung is one of the interesting and major festivals in the rain shadow area. This festival demonstrates the strength of the horses and the rider’s skills in horse riding and it is an ancient festival of the Manang area and is believed to be one of the oldest festivals in the Himalayas.

In 2013 the festival is going to be celebrated from 12th to 16th July. This festival is celebrated to mark the return of the horses and the livestock’s from the Leks (High pastures in the mountains)

The Males in the area take it as an opportunity to show the strength of their horses and their ability of horse riding.  Picking up the khata (silk ritual scarf) from the ground in full gallop is one of the challenging things they have to do and it requires good skills in horse riding. The races, which are held in between Manang and Braga villages, are followed with the interesting and colorful rituals in the local temples. Most people in Manang, both men and women, would wear their traditional dress and nearly all villagers will take some part in the feast.

July, the month when the Yartung festival is celebrated is actually very good time to visit Manang. The landscape is lush green and flowers of different colors make this event a grand ceremony. Since the valley lies in the rain shadow area rain falls are rare here and during July, which is season of heavy monsoon in other parts of the country, here it is short rainfall and rains very seldom. The temperature during July is very pleasant but the Mountain View is not as good as in autumn.

Possible itineraries and access

Accessing Manang for the festival has lots of options.   Following are the popular treks which take you into Manang.

1. Naar-Phu trek (New trekking trail still unspoiled and not very touristy)
2. Thorung-la passes to Muktinath and Jomsom.
3. Tilicho lake trek (best time to visit is Jun/July)

Also Manang village can be made the final destination skipping longer programs, especially for the festival. Just 3 days walk from Dharapani, trekker can reach this beautiful village surrounded by high peaks and stay several days, attending festival and making day hikes around the village. There are several options of hikes around Manang:

• Milarepa cave hike via Braga village to Milarepa gompa and holy cave approximately 4500 meters high.
• Ice Lakes trip with wonderful views of the Manang village and Annapurna massif reaching the beautiful mountain lakes in the elevation of about 4700 meters.
• Manang vicinity round covering Karki gompa, Pocho gompa, Gangapurna Lake and Tenki village

Tentative program for the festival in 2013

12th July- The festival commences after people start gathering at Teen Dhara. They sing a song while riding over their horses. Then from there, they move to the Thang where the race is held. They hold some races and come back to Manang. At around 4 o’clock in the afternoon, both the youngsters and adult gather again at the Teen Dhara, sing a song and head down to the Thang and hold race again and go back.

13th July- Same ritual is followed as of first day excluding morning part.

14th July- The day’s program begins at around 4 o’clock in the afternoon. The villagers go to the Pocho Gompa and light the butter lamps. After lighting the lamps, they head to the Thang and race. Then they go back either to home or gompa. At around 8 to 9 o’clock in the evening, the villagers are divided into two groups and one group is led to Pocho gompa and the other to Karki gompa. Then Oley dance is performed at both the gompas.

15th July- Villagers gather at Pocho Gompa in the afternoon as usual and go for a race at Thang. After completing the race, they come back to Manang.

16th July-Youngsters dance on top of the roof of the Gompa at Manang Village and concludes the festival.

Swayambhunath Stupa, Kathmandu

A golden spire crowning a conical wooded hill, Swayambhunath Stupa is the most ancient and enigmatic of all the holy shrines in Kathmandu valley. Its lofty white dome and glittering golden spire are visible for many miles and from all sides of the valley. Historical records found on a stone inscription give evidence that the stupa was already an important Buddhist pilgrimage destination by the 5th century AD. Its origins however, date to a much earlier time, long before the arrival of Buddhism into the valley. A collection of legends about the site, the 15th century Swayambhu Purana, tells of a miraculous lotus, planted by a past Buddha, which blossomed from the lake that once covered Kathmandu valley. The lotus mysteriously radiated a brilliant light, and the name of the place came to be Swayambhu, meaning 'Self-Created or Self-Existent'. Saints, sages and divinities traveled to the lake to venerate this miraculous light for its power in granting enlightenment. During this time, the Bodhisatva Manjushri was meditating at the sacred mountain of Wu Tai Shan and had a vision of the dazzling Swayambhu light. Manjushri flew across the mountains of China and Tibet upon his blue lion to worship the lotus. Deeply impressed by the power of the radiant light, Manjushri felt that if the water were drained out of the lake Swayambhu would become more easily accessible to human pilgrims. With a great sword Manjushri cut a gorge in the mountains surrounding the lake. The water, draining away, left the valley of present day Kathmandu. The lotus was then transformed into a hill and the light became the Swayabhunath Stupa.

Swayambhunath's worshippers include Hindus, Vajrayana Buddhists of northern Nepal and Tibet, and the Newari Buddhists of central and southern Nepal. Each morning before dawn, hundreds of pilgrims will ascend the 365 steps that lead up the hill, file past the gilded Vajra (Tibetan: Dorje) and two lions guarding the entrance, and begin a series of clockwise circumambulations of the stupa (Newari Buddhists circle in the opposite, counterclockwise direction). On each of the four sides of the main stupa there are a pair of big eyes. These eyes are symbolic of God's all-seeing perspective. There is no nose between the eyes but rather a representation of the number one in the Nepali alphabet, signifying that the single way to enlightenment is through the Buddhist path. Above each pair of eyes is another eye, the third eye, signifying the wisdom of looking within. No ears are shown because it is said the Buddha is not interested in hearing prayers in praise of him.

The area surrounding the stupa is filled with chaityas, temples, painted images of deities and numerous other religious objects. There are many small shrines with statues of Tantric and shamanistic deities, prayer wheels for the Tibetan Buddhists, Shiva lingams (now disguised as Buddhist chaityas and decorated with the faces of the the Dhyani Buddhas), and a popular Hindu temple dedicated to Harati, the Goddess of smallpox and other epidemics.The presence of the Harati Devi temple signifies the intermingling of the pantheons of Hinduism and Buddhism in the development of the religious trends of Nepal. As Buddhists had no deity in their own pantheon to protect against the dreaded smallpox, they adopted the Hindu deity for assistance.

The area surrounding the stupa is filled with chaityas, temples, painted images of deities and numerous other religious objects. There are many small shrines with statues of Tantric and shamanistic deities, prayer wheels for the Tibetan Buddhists, Shiva lingams (now disguised as Buddhist chaityas and decorated with the faces of the the Dhyani Buddhas), and a popular Hindu temple dedicated to Harati, the Goddess of smallpox and other epidemics.The presence of the Harati Devi temple signifies the intermingling of the pantheons of Hinduism and Buddhism in the development of the religious trends of Nepal. As Buddhists had no deity in their own pantheon to protect against the dreaded smallpox, they adopted the Hindu deity for assistance.

Atop Swayambhunath hill is another fascinating, though smaller and less visited temple. This is Shantipur, the 'Place of Peace', inside of which, in a secret, always locked, underground chamber lives the 8th century Tantric master Shantikar Acharya. Practising meditation techniques which have preserved his life for uncounted centuries, he is a great esoteric magician who has complete power over the weather. When the valley of Kathmandu is threatened by drought, the King of Nepal must enter the underground chamber to get a secret mandala from Shantikar. Soon after the mandala is brought outside and shown to the sky, rain begins to fall. Frescoes painted on the inside temple walls depict when last this occurred in 1658. The small temple has a powerful atmosphere; it is mysterious, stern and slightly ominous.

"Swayambhunath" view of Wikipedia 

Swayambhunath (Devanagari: स्वयम्भूनाथ स्तुप; sometimes romanized Swoyambhunath) is an ancient religious complex atop a hill in theKathmandu Valley, west of Kathmandu city. It is also known as the Monkey Temple as there are holy monkeys living in the north-west parts of the temple. The Tibetan name for the site means 'Sublime Trees' (Wylie:Phags.pa Shing.kun), for the many varieties of trees found on the hill. However,Shing.kun may be a corruption of the local Newari name for the complex, Singgu, meaning 'self-sprung'.^[1] For the Buddhist Newars in whose mythological history and origin myth as well as day-to-day religious practice, Swayambhunath occupies a central position, it is probably the most sacred among Buddhist pilgrimage sites. For Tibetans and followers of Tibetan Buddhism, it is second only to Boudhanath.

The Swayambhunath complex consists of a stupa, a variety of shrines and temples, some dating back to the Licchavi period. A Tibetan monastery, museum and library are more recent additions. The stupa has Buddha's eyes and eyebrows painted on. Between them, there is something painted which looks like the nose - but is the Nepali symbol of 'unity', in the main Nepali language dialect^{[citation needed]}. There are also shops, restaurants and hostels. The site has two access points: a long stairway, claimed to have 365 steps, leading directly to the main platform of the temple, which is from the top of the hill to the east; and a car road around the hill from the south leading to the southwest entrance. The first sight on reaching the top of the stairway is the Vajra. Tsultrim Allione describes the experience:

We were breathless and sweating as we stumbled up the last steep steps and practically fell upon the biggest vajra (thunder-bolt scepter) that I have ever seen. Behind this vajra was the vast, round, white dome of the stupa, like a full solid skirt, at the top of which were two giant Buddha eyes wisely looking out over the peaceful valley which was just beginning to come alive.

Much of Swayambhunath's iconography comes from the Vajrayana tradition of Newar Buddhism. However, the complex is also an important site forBuddhists of many schools, and is also revered by Hindus.

Mythology

According to Swayambhu Purana, the entire valley was once filled with an enormous lake, out of which grew a lotus. The valley came to be known asSwayambhu, meaning "Self-Created." The name comes from an eternal self-existent flame (svyaṃbhu) over which a sūpa was later built.

Swayambhunath is also known as the Monkey Temple as there are holy monkeys living in the north-west parts of the temple. They are holy because Manjushree, the bodhisattva of wisdom and learning was raising the hill which the Swayambhunath Temple stands on. He was supposed to leave his hair short but he made it grow long and head lice grew. It is said that the head lice transformed into these monkeys.

The Bodhisattva Manjusri had a vision of the lotus at Swayambhu and traveled there to worship it. Seeing that the valley can be good settlement and to make the site more accessible to human pilgrims, Manjusri cut a gorge at Chovar. The water drained out of the lake, leaving the valley in which Kathmandu now lies. The lotus was transformed into a hill and the flower become the Swayambhunath stupa.

History

Swayambhunath, is among the oldest religious sites in Nepal. According to the Gopālarājavaṃśāvalī Swayambhunath was founded by the great-grandfather of King Mānadeva (464-505 CE),King Vṛsadeva, about the beginning of the 5th century CE. This seems to be confirmed by a damaged stone inscription found at the site, which indicates that King Mānadeva ordered work done in 640 CE.

However, Emperor Ashoka is said to have visited the site in the third century BCE and built a temple on the hill which was later destroyed.

Although the site is considered Buddhist, the place is revered by both Buddhists and Hindus. Numerous king Hindu followers are known to have paid their homage to the temple, including Pratap Malla, the powerful king of Kathmandu, who is responsible for the construction of the eastern stairway in the 17th century.

The stupa was completely renovated in May 2010, its first major renovation in 90 years and its 15th in the nearly 1,500 years since it was built. The dome was re-gilded using 20 kg of gold. The renovation was funded by the Tibetan Nyingma Meditation Center of California, and began in June 2008.

Symbolism

The stupa consists of a dome at the base, above which is a cubical structure painted with eyes of Buddha looking in all four directions with the word "unity" in the main Nepali dialect between them. There are pentagonal Toran present above each of the four sides with statues engraved in them. Behind and above the torana there are thirteen tiers. Above all the tiers there is a small space above which the Gajur is present.

The dome at the base represents the entire world. When a person awakes (represented by eyes of wisdom and compassion) from the bonds of the world, the person reaches the state of enlightenment. The thirteen pinnacles on the top symbolize that sentient beings have to go through the thirteen stages of spiritual realizations to reach enlightenment or Buddhahood.

There is a large pair of eyes on each of the four sides of the main stupa which represent Wisdom and Compassion. Above each pair of eyes is another eye, the third eye. It is said that when Buddha preaches, cosmic rays emanate from the third eye which act as messages to heavenly beings, so that those interested can come down to earth to listen to the Buddha. The hellish beings and beings below the human realm cannot come to earth to listen to the Buddha's teaching, however, the cosmic rays relieve their suffering when Buddha preaches.

There are carvings of the Panch Buddhas (five Buddhas) on each of the four sides of stupa. There are also statues of the Buddhas at the base of the stupas. Panch Buddhas are Buddha in metaphorical sense in Tantrayana. They are Vairochana (occupies the center and is the master of the temple), Akshobhya (faces the east and represents the cosmic element of consciousness), Ratna Sambhava (faces the south and represents the cosmic element of sensation), Amitabha (He represents cosmic element of Sanjna (name) and always faces the West) and Amoghsiddhi (He represents the cosmic element of conformation and faces the north).

Each morning before dawn hundreds of Buddhist (Vajrayana) and Hindu pilgrims ascend the 365 steps from eastern side that lead up the hill, passing the gilded Vajra (Tibetan: Dorje) and two lions guarding the entrance, and begin a series of clockwise circumambulations of the stupa.

Please Visit Kathmandu city "a city of Temple and heaven" once