Nepal Cultural Tours

10 Nights/11 Days:
Nepal, the only country that is a Hindu state, boasts tremendous religious tolerance of the many faiths practiced within its borders.

Hinduists predominate in Nepal as 86.5% of the population. The next largest religious groups consist of Buddhists, 7.8%, and Muslims, 3.5% of the population. Common to all of these religions is the integration of religious expression within everyday life. In contrast with Western religions, these religions involve codes for- individual behavior and daily rites of worship. In the morning, people gather at temples, sanctuaries or river banks to offer prayers and puja.
Hinduism

The word Hinduism was introduced in the 19th century to define the aggregate beliefs of the Arya, immigrants who left Central Asia in 1500 BC, and animist religions of native populations in India.

Basic concepts. Cosmic law rules the good order of the world, be aware and respect cosmic law. Lead the life of a good Hindu, observe rules, perform all rites, accept the caste of birth. Caste system supplies code of conduct and rites done. Encompasses all parts of life rites but also who to take drink from, associate with, marry, etc.

Principles of Hinduism. Dharma religious law and moral code by which people can earn enlightenment. Karma is the life balance of action and reaction individuals responsible for decisions and consequences. Leading good Hindu life will bring rebirth into a better life. Samsara is cycle of reincarnations determined by karma. Moksha is liberation from samsara individual unites with universal timelessness, ultimate serenity, nirvana. Path to moksha is good Hindu life.
Each deity has different names, as well as different symbols, attributes, tasks and powers according to what god it represents. Each deity has a vehicle, an animal usually which serves master. Primary Hindu gods are Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.

Brahma is the creator of the universe. Attributes are the rosary, the receptacle of holy water, the ladle and the book. Mount is a goose or swan. Brahma usually represented with four heads, allows him to watch over world. Very few statues of Brahma since creation is done.

Saraswati is Brahma's consort and is goddess of knowledge, learning and music. She is often portrayed with four arms, plying the veena (seven stringed musical instruments) with two hands as well as holding a rosary and a book. Sits on a lotus riding a peacock or a swan. Often a crescent moon on forehead. Worshipped by Buddhists as a form of Manjushri, the Bodhisattva of wisdom.

Vishnu is the preserver of life and the world. Attributes are the conchshell, the disc, the lotus and the mace. Mount is Garuda, a mythical half-man and half-bird.

Itinerary: Nepal Cultural Tour:  11 Days
Day 1:
Well come to Kathmandu! You will be met by representatives from our company, who will provide transportation to your hotel welcome drink rest & over night at hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 2:
Sightseeing tour of Bhaktapur, Bodhnath, Pashupatinath & the Kathmandu Durbar Square. O/nt at hotel.

Day 3:
Halfday sightseeing tour of Swayambhunath & Patan. O/nt at hotel.

Day 4:
Early morning drive to the Royal Chitwan National Park. At the lodge, the Jungle Guide will brief you on Asia's biggest game reserve. O/nt at lodge.

Day 5:
Safari activities Include Elephant ride into the jungle for excellent game viewing, Jungle walk, Canoe ride. Later in the evening, Cultural dance will be performed by the local inhabitants - The Tharu's. O/nt lodge.

Day 6:
Early morning Bird Watching tour. After breakfast, proceed to Lumbini - The birth place of Lord Buddha. O/nt at hotel.

Day 7:
Full day excursion of Lumbini. Visit the sacred place where Princess Maya Devi gave birth to Lord Buddha and various monasteries. O/nt at hotel.

Day 8:
Fly to Kathmandu. You will be transferred to Dhulikhel, a scenic village famous for its views of the snow capped mountains. O/nt at resort.

Day 9:
View the sunrise and the himalayan ranges. Later in the afternoon, transfer to Kathmandu. O/nt at hotel.

Day 10:
Free day in Kathmandu for shopping and relaxation. O/nt at hotel.

Day 11:
The day is free until your transfer to the airport for your onward flight.