The Royal Family of Nepal 1996

Nepal's history is closely related to its geographical location, separating the fertile plains of India from the desert-like plateau of Tibet. Its position between Indian and China meant the country was able at times to play the role of intermediary - a canny trader between two great powers - while at other times it faced the threat of invasion. Internally, its history was just as dynamic, with city-states in the hills vying with each other for power until one powerful king, Prithivi Narayan Shah, overran them all. That history is very visible today with the three great towns of the Kathmandu valley - Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur - still bearing witness to their days as fiercely competitive mediaeval mini-kingdoms. Indeed, in Nepal it's often possible to suspend belief and mentally roll the clock right back to the mediaeval era.

Nepal - Shopping can be very rewarding and exciting in Kathmandu. There are numbers tourists' shops on the main street and in the arcades of hotels bursting with tempting jewelries, image, clothes and typical Nepalese craft. In some of the small village shops one can obtain traditional makes and beautiful potteries. Antiques can be taken out of the country with special permission granted by the Dep. of Archeology only. Traditional crafts mans colony in Patan is also famous shopping center for Nepalese handicraft.

Dal, Bhat, Kukhura ko Masu, Tarkari & Achar: A typical Nepali set meal consists of Rice, Lentil, Chicken, Vegetables and Pickle.

In the center of Durbar Square stands the old Hanuman Dhoka royal palace built on nine storeys with temples, and large reception halls. The structure is dedicated to the ape king Hanuman who protects against illness. Within there is reverence too for the elephant head of Ganesh, god of wisdom and wealth. A golden gate leads to the coronation courtyard of the Nepalese ruler. In a further courtyard, the Mul Chowk, buffalo, billy-goat, and cockerel are given up in order to make the mother god Durga gracious
Despite Nepal's lack of raw materials, shopping here is quite advanced. Curio arts, Garment and Carpets are head the export list. Nepal's carpet industries are world renowned. Apart from infinity variety of carpets, other hand made jewelry, thankas, block prints, embroidery, Tibetan carpet, pottery, masks & puppets, metal work, tea and other decorating items are among the best souvenirs you can buy here.