World Heritage Sites

The list of sites which have been recognised as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO is quite long. Itincludes the Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa and Kathmandu Durbar Square. The Kathmandu valley and Lumbini is recognised as Cultural World Heritage Sites and the Chitwan and Sagarmatha National Park as the Natural World Heritage Sites.

Trek and Adventure

Apart from mountain biking, rafting people can opt for a hot air balloon ride, bungee jumping or sky diving. Waterfall ice climbing is an option available to those who seek the extra adrenaline rush. Many people from all over the world have made an arduous attempt to take on a hike to the Everest Base Camp.

Culture

With around 125 ethnic groups, Nepal is full of diverse cultures, traditions, beliefs and languages. The dance traditions of Nepal are unique and considered to have originated from Lord Shiva’s abode in the Himalayas. Though Nepali is the official language, over a hundred different languages are spoken in the country. Talking about the art, the monasteries are adorned with vibrant paintings or Thangka which depicts the Hindu and Buddhist deities. Popular handicraft items include metalware, pottery, stone crafts, paper products, goods made out of beads, bones, horns, bamboo, etc. Among textiles, Pashmina and yak wool garments are worth mentioning.

Religion

The Hindu kingdom recently recognised itself as a secular state. Though the vast majority of the population follows Hinduism, there is a significant presence of other religions such as Buddhism, Islam, Christianity and Kiratism (religion of the native tribes). Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha offers a sense of peace and tranquillity that is unmatched. Nepal also has some of the most scared Hindu shrines such as DoleshworMahadevTemple.

Cuisine

Though heavily influenced by its neighbours India and China, Nepalese cuisine retains its uniqueness and is healthier as compared to other South East Asian Cuisines. Dal-bhaat is the staple food, it simply refers to boiled rice (bhaat) and lentil-based gravy (dal). Momo, the Nepali version of dumplings is a delicacy which is not only popular in Nepal but also in  neighbouring India.

Wildlife

The country has 10 National Parks, 6 Conservation Areas and 3 Wildlife reserves. You can spot the one-horned rhinoceros, Royal Bengal tiger, musk dear among other endangered species while back riding on an elephant at the Chitwan National Park. 

Volunteering Opportunity

Nepal is still developing as a country and especially after the 2015 earthquake there are plenty of opportunities to volunteer and help. This helps a person to get involved in the culture, creating a special bond with the people.