When honeymoon destinations are contemplated, couples tend to only stick to the standard, already overtly popular destinations of Europe and North America. For the ones who would like to explore something new, one of our closest neighbouring countries, Nepal,is an excellent, economically feasible option. Nepal is sandwiched between the Tibetautonomous region of China and India. According to myths, Nepal is named after a Hindu sage named “Ne”, who established himself in the valley of Kathmandu in earlier times. Thus, the word “Nepal” came into
existence after the sage ‘Ne’ who protected his place or ‘pala’.
The official language of Nepal is Nepali. The country is well connected and accessible by land and air. Nepali Rupee is the dominant currency in circulation in the country.
Generally, Nepal experiences the standard four seasons of winter, spring, summer and autumn. October-November, the beginning of the dry season, is one of the best times of the year in Nepal as the country-side is green and lush with the recent conclusion of the monsoon rains. The weather is neither too hot nor too cold. February-March-April, the tail end of the dry season, is another good
time to experience the beauty of Nepal. Mid-June to September is a time period which should be avoided when it comes to visiting Nepal.
Tourists usually opt for Kathmandu, the capital city, as the base point for exploring Nepal. It is home to an array of temples such as Bhaktapur, Dakshinkali and stupas like Boudanath and Swayambhunath. Lying 6 Km from central Kathmandu is Pashupatinath temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated on the banks of the Bagmatiriver, the temple, is built in pagoda style, with a gilded roof and exquisitely carved silver doors.
The best feature about Nepal is the fact that it has a plethora of opportunities for every kind of tourist to offer. Nepal is home to eight of the world’s 10 highest peaks, including Mount Everest – the world’s tallest, which automatically makes trekking and adventure expeditions an important component of Nepal tourism which visitors can enjoy. In fact, the varieties of adventure tourism packages as Nepal has to offer are rare to find in any another country. Pokharan, Nepal’s second most popular tourist destination is the best starting point for trekking activities. Pokharan is also famous as the lake-city of Nepal and provides ample opportunities for fishing, swimming, canoeing and boating with the majestic hills in the background.
Another spot thronged by tourists, when in Nepal, is Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. The Mayadevi temple is the main attraction as it has a depiction which shows Mayadevi, the Buddha’s mother, giving birth to him. Standing west of the Mayadevishirine is the oldest monument in Nepal, the Ashoka Pillar. The pillar was erected by Emperor Ashoka.
As far as the cuisine and food in Nepal is concerned, tourists ought to know that the Nepali national meal is daalbhaattarkaari, which is essentially a meal of pulses/lentils, cooked rice and a vegetablecurry preparation. Otherwise, visitors should also make it a point to gorge on Tibetan Bread and Honey, a puffy fried bread with honey for breakfast.
Thus, Nepal, with its geographical and cultural diversity is an understated tourist destination. All it needs is an open minded traveller to explore its terrains and unravel its beauty to the world.
