Features - Editor - 26 August 2008

Newar Rites of Passage

In the cities of Patan, Bhaktapur and Newar of Nepal, live the largest concentrations Newar, who are indigenous to the Kathmandu Valley. Practicing Buddhism and Hinduism, the Newar are a unique group of people who practice traditional rituals and rites that keep the tradition and culture of the Newar alive. In previous times, the Newar were divided by occupational caste that could be distinguished by surname, but that is no longer of importance. With such a rich culture, there are many rites performed throughout the year by the Newar. Many are related to the stages of life and thus known as the Rites of Passage.

Travel - Editor - 20 August 2008

The Enriching Experience of Village Tourism

Village Tourism in Nepal was created and researched by Dr. Surendra Bhakta Pradhanang, who is well known in the tourism industry and is also the Chairman of the Kathmandu Research Centre. His efforts to expand tourism in Nepal and to bring an income to small villages through the tourism industry motivated him to research the possibility of Village Tourism, which is now offered by many tour operators in the country. Dr. Pradhanang’s commitment to improving the lives of villagers and boosting the overall economy of the country has been invaluable to tourism and to Nepal.

News - Editor - 15 August 2008

The Nepalese Olympic Team

Nepal may be a small country with a reputation for rural villages and large mountains, but that has not stopped it from getting involved in the Olympics. This year at the 2008 Summer Olympics, no less than eight different athletes will be representing their homeland in the bright and colorful city of Beijing. They were carefully selected by the official Nepalese Olympic Committee (NOC) for their excellence in their particular sporting fields.

Travel - Editor - 12 August 2008

Climbers Welcome Reduction in Off-Season Climbing Fees

Nepal is a beautiful and fascinating country that is very popular with mountaineers aspiring to conquer some of the majestic mountains that make this country unique. In an effort to encourage mountain climbing enthusiasts to visit Nepal during off-peak seasons, Tourism Ministry authorities have reduced mountain climbing fees for all 326 mountain peaks open to climbers, including eight of the world’s fourteen peaks that are above 8,000 meters.

Features - Editor - 05 August 2008

Nima Rumba – Star of Nepal

Nima Rumba was the second son of three, born in Suvarnapur in Nepal on the 26th of May. Even though he enjoyed music, he never thought he would become a singer and songwriter, seeing himself as more of an artist. Sketching pictures and giving them away as gifts, Nima Rumba was certain that art was the direction his life was following, but an encounter with a few of his brother’s musical friends changed his life forever.