Nepal
Pashupatinath, Kathmandu
Valley (AH 42) Pashupatinath is the holiest Hindu pilgrimage
destination in Nepal, with linga images of Shiva, shrines, and temples.
A gold-plated roof, silver doors, and woodcarvings of the finest quality
decorate the pagoda construction. A circuit of the Pashupati area takes
visitors past a 6th-century statue of the Buddha, an 8th-century statue
of Brahma and numerous other temples.
Patan (AH42) Patan, the
second-largest city in the Kathmandu valley lies just across the Bagmati
River. The city has superb temples and artisans whose handiwork provides
the focus of the stunning Durbar Square, the largest display of Newari
architecture in Nepal. It includes the Royal Palace and the two-tiered
Jagannarayan Temple.
Royal Chitwan National Park (AH2)
The Royal Chitwan National Park is one of the best planned tourist areas
in Nepal. In the earlier part of the century, when rapid deforestation
was devastating Nepal's southern Terai belt, the government proclaimed
the Chitwan area a national park. Today, Royal Bengal tigers and one-horned
rhinos roam the region. Elephant safaris, jungle walks, canoeing and a
variety of cultural activities can be enjoyed.
Lumbini (AH2) Shakyamuni
Buddha was born in Lumbini, in southern Nepal. Since then, Nepal has been
a sacred ground for Buddhists. The ruins of the old city can still be
seen. The restored garden and surroundings of Lumbini have the remains
of many of the ancient stupas and monasteries. A quiet garden, shaded
by the leafy Bo tree (the type of tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment),
and a newly-planted forest nearby lend an air of tranquillity.
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