Podcasts about Kathmandu Valley

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Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2022 10:56

That is the sound of hundreds of students at Tilingatar High School in Tokha Municipality lining up for their midday meal of rice and veggies. This still unfinished concrete school of 1,100 students on the urban edge of the Kathmandu Valley is one among tens of thousands of government schools country wide that serve hot meals to their students. In two more years the midday meal programme (known here as diya khaja) will feed children in all 77 districts, after the remaining 6 districts transition from meals provided by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP). This is no small feat, nor cheap. From 2017 to 2020 the diya khaja budget almost quadrupled (from $20 million to nearly $70 million). After teachers' salaries, this is the largest education expense in Nepal. In March I travelled to the Far West region and visited five schools in both the hills and the Tarai plains. Unanimously I found that officials and parents liked the government's school feeding. It made students excited about going to class and provided some of them with their most healthy meal of the day.I'm not saying there are no challenges: some schools and the municipal governments that transfer the money to them to run the programme — budgeted by the central government — say that providing 15 rupees per child per meal just isn't enough, when they also have to pay for cooks, utensils and transportation. And media reports appear regularly about low quality food in a certain school or of officials substituting processed food for the nutrition-based menu created by the ministry of education and WFP. Surprisingly, neither the government nor the UN agency has analysed the impact of school feeding on child nutrition in Nepal, a country where malnutrition remains a major health problem. That said, schools and municipalities are forging ahead with diya khaja. In the fertile outskirts of Kailali district — with the help of the WFP — schools are contracting local women farmers to provide rice, lentils, milk, yogurt and almost every other ingredient needed for their menus fresh from their fields. And here in Tokha, the municipality has itself expanded school feeding beyond grade 5, the last year of the government programme, to grade 10. ResourcesArticle and video on school feeding in NepalArticle on school meals in Nepal and CanadaWorld Food Programme global report, with Nepal case studyNepal Now social linksFacebookInstagramTwitterLinkedInThanks as always to Nikunja Nepal for advice and inspiration.Music: amaretto needs ice ... by urmymuse (c) copyright 2018 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/urmymuse/57996 Ft: Apoxode

Nepal bites into ambitious school meals programme

music education nutrition schools nepal programme bites ambitious malnutrition far west world food programme wfp school meals food for life kathmandu valley

Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2022 10:56

That is the sound of hundreds of students at Tilingatar High School in Tokha Municipality lining up for their midday meal of rice and veggies. This still unfinished concrete school of 1,100 students on the urban edge of the Kathmandu Valley is one among tens of thousands of government schools country wide that serve hot meals to their students. In two more years the midday meal programme (known here as diya khaja) will feed children in all 77 districts, after the remaining 6 districts transition from meals provided by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP). This is no small feat, nor cheap. From 2017 to 2020 the diya khaja budget almost quadrupled (from $20 million to nearly $70 million). After teachers' salaries, this is the largest education expense in Nepal. In March I travelled to the Far West region and visited five schools in both the hills and the Tarai plains. Unanimously I found that officials and parents liked the government's school feeding. It made students excited about going to class and provided some of them with their most healthy meal of the day.I'm not saying there are no challenges: some schools and the municipal governments that transfer the money to them to run the programme — budgeted by the central government — say that providing 15 rupees per child per meal just isn't enough, when they also have to pay for cooks, utensils and transportation. And media reports appear regularly about low quality food in a certain school or of officials substituting processed food for the nutrition-based menu created by the ministry of education and WFP. Surprisingly, neither the government nor the UN agency has analysed the impact of school feeding on child nutrition in Nepal, a country where malnutrition remains a major health problem. That said, schools and municipalities are forging ahead with diya khaja. In the fertile outskirts of Kailali district — with the help of the WFP — schools are contracting local women farmers to provide rice, lentils, milk, yogurt and almost every other ingredient needed for their menus fresh from their fields. And here in Tokha, the municipality has itself expanded school feeding beyond grade 5, the last year of the government programme, to grade 10. ResourcesArticle and video on school feeding in NepalArticle on school meals in Nepal and CanadaWorld Food Programme global report, with Nepal case studyNepal Now social linksFacebookInstagramTwitterLinkedInThanks as always to Nikunja Nepal for advice and inspiration.Music: amaretto needs ice ... by urmymuse (c) copyright 2018 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/urmymuse/57996 Ft: Apoxode

Episode 41: Kishore Thapa | Sushant Pradhan Podcast

Sushant Pradhan Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2022 74:00

Mr. Kishore Thapa is a Architect and an Urban Planning Expert at Nepal Institute for Urban and Regional Studies. He was also a former Secretary at Ministry of Urban Development, Government of Nepal and an Independent Candidate for the Mayor of Kathmandu City in the 2017 election. Besides, he was the SLC board topper in 2031BS and has also spent more than three decades in Government Service Jobs. In this Podcast, Mr. Kishore Thapa shares his views on Kathmandu Valley, Responsibilities of a Mayor, Proper Management of Transportation, Clean Water and much more. Mr. Kishore Thapa's Linkedin : https://www.linkedin.com/in/kishore-t... Mr. Kishore Thapa's Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/kishore.thapa.9

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Ep8: Activism & Enterprise with Sagarika Bhatta

Flourish Systems Change

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 2, 2022 45:11

To round off the first season of the Flourish podcast, we speak to Sagarika Bhatta, an environmental scientist, climate activist and social entrepreneur based in Kathmandu. We explore how cultivating female and youth leadership in climate action is necessary for a just transition; and discuss the disconnect between the realities of “developed” or “developing” economies in how they mitigate, adapt to and are impacted by the climate crisis.Sagarika Bhatta is environmental scientist, climate activist and social entrepreneur based in Kathmandu. As Chairperson and Founder of activist NGOs PowerShift Nepal and ERST-We Care Nepal, she encourages female leadership and agency building for climate justice. Her work, introducing urban rooftop agriculture to women in the increasingly urbanized Kathmandu Valley, was recognised by the DO School in Berlin, and awarded the Climate Action: Race to Zero Innovation Award 2021. Sagarika was runner up for the NASO Women in Science Award in 2020. She was recently nominated for the Gender Just Climate Solutions Award and is both a former Climate Tracker 2016 Fellow, participant in the Asia Climate Leadership Camp 2019 and recipient of a Korean Green Grant.

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KATHMANDU, NEPAL: Nature, Massacre, Monkeys and Friendly People

The Radio Vagabond

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 15, 2022 29:46

काठमाडौंमा स्वागत छ WELCOME TO KATHMANDU Before going to Nepal, I'd been told that this country has some very friendly people – that show a genuine interest in who you are and where you're from. And that was the case already in the taxi on the way from the airport to the city. In the car with Basu Rimal, he asked a lot about where I was from and what it was like there. He told me that he had been to Scandinavia. “I've been to Norway and Finland, but not Denmark yet. Scandinavia is really nice, I really liked it but it's very cold.” Basu works in tourism and has a tour company called Nepalaya Treks And Expedition, where he does trekking in Himalaya. YOU DECIDED ON NEPAL In last week's episode, I asked you where we should go. And there was a big majority in the votes that said that we should go to Nepal. Thank you all for being so active in saying your opinion on The Radio Vagabond on Facebook. I'm here with a good friend from Denmark, and we're staying in a guest house called Ambassador Garden Home in a vibrant lively area called Thamel in the heart of Kathmandu. Thamel have the biggest tourist market in Nepal and the biggest business hub with a ton of guest houses, restaurants, shops, and bookstores. Obviously, I found Ambassador Garden Home on Hotels25.com. LANGUAGE IN NEPAL Nepal has 122 major languages. Nepali is the most common spoken by 78% of the population either as first or second language and has official language status. But the other 121 languages are all recognized national languages. PATAN DURBAR SQUARE Patan Durbar Square is situated at the centre of the city of Lalitpur, around 10 km from the city center of Kathmandu in Nepal. This square is one of the three Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley, which are all UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Durbar Square is a marvel of Newar architecture. The square floor is tiled with red bricks. There are many temples in the area. There is also a bell beside the main temples. It's a stunning and lively area. NEPAL EARTHQUAKE In April 2015 the square was heavily damaged by the big Nepal Earthquake. The earthquake struck near the city of Kathmandu in central Nepal. About 9,000 people were killed, many thousands more were injured, and more than 600,000 structures in Kathmandu and other nearby towns were either damaged or destroyed. The initial shock registered a magnitude of 7.8, with the epicentre only around 77 km (48 miles) northwest of Kathmandu. And two large aftershocks, with magnitudes 6.6 and 6.7, shook the region within one day of the main quake. Here is a YouTube video shot right here when the earthquake hit. 7 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT KATHMANDU Big City in the Valley Kathmandu is the capital city and largest city of Nepal with a population of 1.5 million in the city, and 3 million in its wider urban areas across the Kathmandu Valley. Kathmandu is the 17th highest capital in the world Last week we were in La Paz, Bolivia – the highest capital in the world, and Kathmandu is also up there. Standing at approximately 1,400 meters (4,600 feet) above sea level it's number 17 on the list. City of Glory Kathmandu is known as Kantipur which means the city of glory. The rich ancient culture and diverse religion make this city as the city of glory. UNESCO Hot Spot Kathmandu valley is full of cultures and heritage sites. It has seven UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Kathmandu Valley itself was accorded the status of a World Heritage Site in 1979. The World's Biggest Mountain is Close Mt. Everest is 240 km away from Kathmandu and is seen from Kathmandu valley. Never a Colony Even though this country lies in between the two big countries India and China, which was ruled by the British, Nepal was never a colony and never ruled by any foreigners and other countries. Kingdom Nepal was a kingdom ruled by the Shah family 1768 to 2008. The beginning of the end for the kingdom was when the Crown Prince killed his father the king, his mother, brother, sister, and many other members of his family in 2001. ROYAL MASSACRE I'm visiting the place where it all happened. Narayanhiti Palace is now a museum, and used to be the royal palace. This is where most of the royal family got killed by the Crown Prince on the 1st of June 2001. Here's how the official story goes: The Royal family gathered on a Friday, as they usually did on Fridays for a family evening. The king, the queen, their kids and a few cousins and close friends. In total 24 people were invited. After dinner, the Crown Prince Dipendra was in the pool room playing pool alone while drinking whiskey and smoking a cigar containing a mixture of hashish … as he often did. When his brother Prince Niranjan and other family members noticed that he was starting to sway back and forth and had difficulty standing, they suggested that he went to bed. While he was in the bedroom, he made several phone calls to his girlfriend, Devyani Rana. She later said that she noticed that his voice sounded a little weak and very slurry, so she called his assistant and asked him to go and check on him to make sure he was okay. He and another assistant went into Dipendra's bedroom and found him lying on the floor. They helped him undress and then he went into the bathroom and started throwing up. He then turned to his assistants and asked them to leave the room and called his girlfriend one last time and said to her: “I'm going to bed. Goodnight, we'll talk tomorrow.” But he didn't go to bed. After this call, he put on an army uniform, and armed himself to the teeth with an MP5 machine gun, an M16 assault rifle, and a Glock pistol. And left the bedroom. He then started walking back to the pool room where the family and friends were chatting and having drinks. At this time, his father King Birendra, was sitting at the pool table, entertaining the guests with a story. Dipendra reached the pool room and stood at the door. First fired one shot from the machine gun toward the ceiling. Conversation stopped and they all looked towards the door in disbelief. WHAT ARE YOU DOING, SON? Dipendra then pointed the gun at his father, the King and shot and wounded him. Witnesses later told that the King just looked at him and said, “What are you doing, son?” – before he fell to the floor. Dipendra then opened fire again and killed half of his family in that one room. His mother and his brother managed to escape into the palace grounds. But Dipendra followed them and shot them dead too. In the massacre, he killed his father, his mother, his younger brother, his sister, and other close members of his family. In total nine members of the royal family was killed, and five others wounded. At the end, Dipendra turned the gun on himself. He didn't die intently and while coma at the hospital, he was crowned king – according to rules of succession. But died in hospital three days after the massacre without regaining consciousness. WHY DID HE DO IT? No one really knows why he did this. Some say that he wanted to depose his father and install himself as king – bringing the monarchy back to absolute rule. Others say that he was put up to this by his uncle, the king's younger brother, who wanted to be king himself. Some say that he was angry at his family because they wouldn't let him marry the woman that he loved – Devyani Rani who was a member of a riveling dynasty. And then… some say that he didn't pull the trigger. He was described as an always smiling gentleman and a modernist who would be for democracy in Nepal. Much controversy and conspiracies surround the circumstances of the massacre. Even today. Many questions remain unresolved. Questions like the apparent lack of security at the event; the absence of the Prince Gyanendra, Dipendra's uncle who succeeded him. Also, the fact that Dipendra's self-inflicted head-wound was located at his left temple, despite him being right-handed. And the fact that the investigation only lasted for two weeks and wasn't very thorough. It didn't involve any major forensic analysis – despite an offer by Scotland Yard to carry one out. But according to a government-appointed inquiry team the Crown Prince Dipendra was named as perpetrator of the massacre. I've put a link to a video from Journeyman Pictures where surviving family members tell their eyewitness accounts of what happened. NARAYANHITI PALACE MUSEUM The visit to the Narayanhiti Palace Museum was absolutely fascinating! It feels like walking through the history of Shah dynasty of Nepal. Everything inside the palace makes you seem royal. Larger than life pictures and paintings of Royals of Nepal, and lots and lots of mirrors can be found on every place you look. You will get a lot of steps walking through each and every part of the museum and I encourage you to do so if you want the best experience. Entrance fee was 500 Nepalese Rupee (bit more than 4 USD, bit less than 4 Euro). You must hand in cameras and phones as photography is strictly prohibited. So, I don't have any pictures from the visit. They also told me that I couldn't bring my microphone – even though it was clearly not a camera. So, since I don't have any pictures from the visit, you'll have to go yourself when you're in Kathmandu, and don't forget to look for the bullet holes! WEATHER IN NEPAL What about the weather in Kathmandu? Well, the wet season is warm, muggy, and partly cloudy and the dry season is comfortable and mostly clear. I'm here in December – in what is called “The cool season” and normally lasts for two months, from early December. And I could feel it was a bit chilly when I arrived. In Nepal, there are different climates according to altitude: the sub-tropical climate with a rainy season in the southern flat strip, the temperate climate in the low mountains, and finally, the cold mountain climate in the peaks of the Himalayas. In the summer monsoon from June to early October they get a lot of rain. SWAYAMBHUNATH STUPA – MONKEY TEMPLE The Swayambhunath Stupa (also called Monkey Temple) is one of most interesting places in the Kathmandu Valley, when it comes to architecture. And when they call it The Monkey Temple, there's a reason for that. Hundreds, if not thousands of monkeys run around here. And they are not shy. As you can see in the main photo of this episode, a monkey walked past me and pushed me a bit as I was doing some recordings while leaning against a wall. The Stupa itself is a perfectly proportioned monument in the middle that rises through a whitewashed dome to a gilded spire, from where four iconic faces of the Buddha look out across the valley in different directions. Above the stupa are thousands of prayer flags, with mantras, which are said to be carried to heaven by the Wind Horse. The site was also shaken severely by the 2015 earthquake, but the main stupa only got superficial damage. I'LL BE BACK My three-day visit to Kathmandu was coming to an end. Sitting in the airport I knew one thing: I'm doing an “Arnold” when I say that I'll be back. And this is not something, I say every time I leave a place (but often). In this case it's something, I know for sure. And when I do, I want to find a nice little quiet place in the mountains and stay longer. I want to be able to wake up and have my morning coffee with a stunning view. And spend some time getting close to the wonderful people of this country. And get some quality time with the people I already met, like Basu, and most of all someone, you didn't hear speak in this episode: Ajay. He appears briefly in the interview episode, I made here with another traveller, Robin when I was here. Robin is this young German backpacker, who met Ajay on a previous trip. Ajay was his tuk-tuk driver, he invited Robin home to meet his family and this time Robin was back. Ajay lives a bit away from Kathmandu and took time off from work to show us around his capital city. Since then, I've been in regular contact with Ajay, and he is one of the reasons, I really want to come back here. My name is Palle Bo, and I gotta keep moving. See you.

Indigenous activism in Nepal through a Newa lens

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 30, 2021 42:01

Welcome to Nepal Now. My name is Marty Logan.Looking back on the early days of my relationship with Nepal, I see that it took me far too long to realise that this is a country of incredible diversity of cultures and peoples. Today I can understand why — the face of Nepal is very much upper-caste, Hindu, male and Nepali speaking. Yet roughly a third of the country's nearly 30 million people belong to about 100 Indigenous groups, 60 of them officially recognized. Surprisingly, you hear very little about those groups on a day-to-day basis here, especially compared to countries like Canada or Australia, where the proportion of Indigenous people is much lower, but Indigenous rights is a major talking point and issue. When I moved to Nepal just before the end of the 10-year Maoist conflict in 2005, a lot of heat was being generated in discussions over the rebels' proposal to divide the country based on the territories of the major Indigenous groups. In the end, that vision was not realised and people like today's guest, Indigenous rights activist Prabin Shakya, argue that the Maoists were playing with the aspirations of many marginalized people in the country simply to attain their political ends. Since the peace process ended, Indigenous rights is a topic that is highlighted in mainstream media annually on Indigenous Peoples Day, then fades away. Those of us living in Kathmandu do hear regularly about disputes over development projects that threaten the lands of the Newa (or Newar) Indigenous people of the Kathmandu Valley, but these are rarely framed as Indigenous rights issues. Shakya tells me that a lot of activism is happening. Yes, much of it is in reaction to government plans to take over Indigenous people's lands in the name of development. But some proactive initiatives to recognize Indigenous rights are taking place at local levels. ResourcesCommunity Empowerment and Social Justice Network (NGO led by Prabin Shakya)Nepal Now social linksFacebookInstagramTwitterLinkedInThanks as always to Nikunja Nepal for advice and inspiration.Music: amaretto needs ice ... by urmymuse (c) copyright 2018 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/urmymuse/57996 Ft: Apoxode

Indigenous activism in Nepal through a Newa lens

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 30, 2021 42:01

Welcome to Nepal Now. My name is Marty Logan.Looking back on the early days of my relationship with Nepal, I see that it took me far too long to realise that this is a country of incredible diversity of cultures and peoples. Today I can understand why — the face of Nepal is very much upper-caste, Hindu, male and Nepali speaking. Yet roughly a third of the country's nearly 30 million people belong to about 100 Indigenous groups, 60 of them officially recognized. Surprisingly, you hear very little about those groups on a day-to-day basis here, especially compared to countries like Canada or Australia, where the proportion of Indigenous people is much lower, but Indigenous rights is a major talking point and issue. When I moved to Nepal just before the end of the 10-year Maoist conflict in 2005, a lot of heat was being generated in discussions over the rebels' proposal to divide the country based on the territories of the major Indigenous groups. In the end, that vision was not realised and people like today's guest, Indigenous rights activist Prabin Shakya, argue that the Maoists were playing with the aspirations of many marginalized people in the country simply to attain their political ends. Since the peace process ended, Indigenous rights is a topic that is highlighted in mainstream media annually on Indigenous Peoples Day, then fades away. Those of us living in Kathmandu do hear regularly about disputes over development projects that threaten the lands of the Newa (or Newar) Indigenous people of the Kathmandu Valley, but these are rarely framed as Indigenous rights issues. Shakya tells me that a lot of activism is happening. Yes, much of it is in reaction to government plans to take over Indigenous people's lands in the name of development. But some proactive initiatives to recognize Indigenous rights are taking place at local levels. ResourcesCommunity Empowerment and Social Justice Network (NGO led by Prabin Shakya)Nepal Now social linksFacebookInstagramTwitterLinkedInThanks as always to Nikunja Nepal for advice and inspiration.Music: amaretto needs ice ... by urmymuse (c) copyright 2018 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/urmymuse/57996 Ft: Apoxode

Thailand, Bali, Japan, Hong Kong, Travel Updates & Patan's Durbar Square Part 2

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2021 36:42

Navigating through the confusing Thailand Pass online registration as well as updates for travel openings for Bali, Japan, Hong Kong, and more. Although the odds are still in your favor you could end up ruining your vacation if you're traveling to Thailand for only a two week stay or less. It's happened to people that came in close contact with someone who tests positive. Their entire vacation was spent in a quarantine hotel. Bali still requires a 5 day quarantine period upon arrival so for now they are abandoning the short term travelers. Lots more to talk about as Southeast Asia continues to relax travel restrictions. I will continue a walk through Patan's Durbar Square in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal in part 2 of a 2018 revisit. Thanks as always for your support!Donations: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/JohnASaboePatreon:https://www.patreon.com/FarEastTravelsWrite a Review For The Podcast:https://apple.co/3B4ld1p

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Cambodia Announces Reopening Plan, News From Vietnam, Thailand And More!

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Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2021 31:38

Cambodia finally announces reopening plans set for the end of November. Thailand reopened this week to fully vaccinated tourists from select countries and Vietnam has more regions getting ready to open possibly in November along with Phu Quoc Island. Clearly there is urgency to get things rolling again with airlines on the verge of bankruptcy and hotels and resorts exhausting their financial resources. Indonesia's key carrier is on the brink of bankruptcy and if the tourism industry doesn't start opening up in Asia more will follow. I will cover off the latest news and reopening plans as well as visit one of my favorite sites in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal, Patan's Durbar Square(2018).Support the podcast!Donations: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/JohnASaboePatreon:https://www.patreon.com/FarEastTravelsWrite A Review:https://tools.applemediaservices.com/podcast/1079513943?country=us

#6 Silicon Valley to Kathmandu Valley

The TechKraft Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 13, 2021 81:39

Prashish returned to Nepal after completing his post graduation and working at a startup. He shares his experience of silicon valley as a professional and student and also the shift of mindset he got during his stay in the USA. He returned to Nepal with a vision to build strong engineering teams and products from Nepal. He is currently Chief Technology Officer at Innovate Tech, Nepal. Full Video: https://bit.ly/ttp-v-ep6 Host : Ravi Mandal https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravimandal/ https://instagram.com/rvimandal Guest: Prashish Rajbhandari https://www.linkedin.com/in/prashishh/

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Lockdown lessons: caring for those most in need

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Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2021 33:15

Welcome to Nepal Now. I’m Marty Logan. Today is Thursday, April 29th. A few hours ago we started a second lockdown here in the Kathmandu Valley in response to a frightening rise in the number of Covid-19 cases. I’ve read reports that the intensive care units of many hospitals are full and projections that the number of cases in Nepal is growing faster than in neighbouring India, which of course has been devastated in recent days. Lockdown here basically means that except for food shops and pharmacies — which open only for limited hours in the morning and evening — all but essential business stops. Last year, when the entire country locked down, here in Nepal’s capital within days we saw many people on the streets after they ran out of food. Governments provided some support but it was civil society that stepped up and set up kitchens on the streets to cook hot meals and assemble food packs for families. Kusum Tamang of Hiteri Foundation led one of the many, many efforts that sprang up in the capital and across the country. Today we’re talking to her about how her tiny organization managed to contribute so much during the lockdown and about some of the people they supported and continue working with. She also has some ideas to better prepare for the next emergency. If you haven’t already, I highly recommend that you also listen to our very first episode, from July 2020, Community to the Rescue — Again: Covid-19 in Nepal. Thank you for listening. If you haven’t already, you can like, follow or favourite the show wherever you hear your podcasts, so you don’t miss our next episode. We are on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, where you can keep up with the show between episodes, ask us a question, or share an idea. You can always email me at marty@martylogan.net. Resources Hiteri Foundation Nepal Now social links Facebook Instagram Twitter Thanks as always to Nikunja Nepal for advice and inspiration. Music: amaretto needs ice ... by urmymuse (c) copyright 2018 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/urmymuse/57996 Ft: Apoxode --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/nepalnow/message

Lockdown lessons: caring for those most in need

covid-19 music community lessons government lockdown caring nepal kathmandu valley

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2021 33:16

Welcome to Nepal Now. I'm Marty Logan.Today is Thursday, April 29th. A few hours ago we started a second lockdown here in the Kathmandu Valley in response to a frightening rise in the number of Covid-19 cases. I've read reports that the intensive care units of many hospitals are full and projections that the number of cases in Nepal is growing faster than in neighbouring India, which of course has been devastated in recent days. Lockdown here basically means that except for food shops and pharmacies — which open only for limited hours in the morning and evening — all but essential business stops. Last year, when the entire country locked down, here in Nepal's capital within days we saw many people on the streets after they ran out of food. Governments provided some support but it was civil society that stepped up and set up kitchens on the streets to cook hot meals and assemble food packs for families. Kusum Tamang of Hiteri Foundation led one of the many, many efforts that sprang up in the capital and across the country. Today we're talking to her about how her tiny organization managed to contribute so much during the lockdown and about some of the people they supported and continue working with. She also has some ideas to better prepare for the next emergency. If you haven't already, I highly recommend that you also listen to our very first episode, from July 2020, Community to the Rescue — Again: Covid-19 in Nepal. Thank you for listening. If you haven't already, you can like, follow or favourite the show wherever you hear your podcasts, so you don't miss our next episode. We are on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, where you can keep up with the show between episodes, ask us a question, or share an idea. You can always email me at marty@martylogan.net. ResourcesHiteri FoundationNepal Now social linksFacebookInstagramTwitterThanks as always to Nikunja Nepal for advice and inspiration.Music: amaretto needs ice ... by urmymuse (c) copyright 2018 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/urmymuse/57996 Ft: Apoxode--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/nepalnow/message

Everest 2021: Welcome to Kathmandu

The Podcast on alanarnette.com

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2021 10:16

Arriving in Kathmandu is when many people feel their adventure begins. A city with a long history dating to 185 AD, the capital of Nepal has grown to over 2.5 million residents in the Kathmandu Valley. Sadly the streets are congested and the city has one of the worse air quality indexes in the world. However, it remains a city rich in culture and deserving of a day or two for tourism.

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Bhasa mwa sa jati mwai (if the language alive then the race will live longer) by Susan Dhangal

Baba Betar Radio

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 25, 2021 89:07

Baba Betar Chobi Mela 2021 https://chobimela.org Bhasa mwa sa jati mwai (if the language alive then the race will live longer)/ NERAWI PROVERB Of all the things the Newars are known for, their built environment and extensive city planning makes them uniquely urbanized for inhabitants of the Himalayan foothills. What is most exciting about Newar settlement is not symmetry nor uniformity but how the matrix of adjoined houses and chowks are still interconnected with rich cultural and social heritage. Manifested in both the intangible livelihoods and in the structure of community whether through physical or social engineering, Kathmandu Valley, a long coveted Newar gem, carried distinction and character among all Himalayan kingdoms since antiquity. But for much of Nepal's modern history, the Newars have had to face immense struggle to maintain their distinguished identity as a people. Dominant ethno-political forces continue to undermine and dismiss their vernacular singularity. Against persistent current of misplaced economic interests, the sophisticated Newar achievements wane as the community crumbles and falls divided. Slowly but surely, all are to assimilate into a soulless economy that is generic and otherwise irreverent of refinement or accomplishment. In this series I illustrate the city as a nexus of identity – 1 Rajendra Maharjan/ Bajracharya (Guru) 41. Is among few who plays around 90 type of ethnic instrument, which is mostly based oral orientation. Rajendra is formally teaching in 8 local community institutions, like: Bihar, Bahis and few Temples. He has published few books aiming to archive ethnic instruments and its values. Thou, he belongs to farmer community, his keen interest in ethnic music and astrology, in 1997 bc Rajendra is honored by title Bajracharya (Buddhist priest). His life is simple yet very inspiring because he works almost free of cost. During the interview he said that, “especially ethnic knowledge is not commercial, it is like a breathing air in free of cost “. Any way his fee is 20 rs per month. https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fyoutube.com%2Fc%2FGuruRajendraMaharjan%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2gezEBzwfdOEUDMptboTCkb2HnD4SbxHU8U4bd97CHTfH4oQvQ-Iwm6ns&h=AT2_d4XmMn9IiIp0ov3VrXnz-ce7v5R1Cyeml90Kr-JejUHPlCJeO66hXltIc7b4Hkry8z_XAaK-6idJC-KPcqLPLQPnmk9SgNHW3xu_qToGMFRAOv1U0vyxJzZ1iDl5USKCpcN2L2tvjp3fHNM 2 Hari Bhakta Katuwal is one of most underground kind of Avant-garde poet born in Nepal, 1935-1980. Poem: Rahar https://www.google.com/search?q=hari+bhakta+katuwal&rlz=1C1CHZL_enUS721US721&oq=hari+&aqs=chrome.3.69i59l2j69i57j69i59j46i20i263i395j69i60l3.12164j1j4&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8 3 Bhupi Saherchan sounds like very socio-political Poet. Poem: Mero chowk https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1CHZL_enUS721US721&sxsrf=ALeKk00UM6X6ksKyXTkz9xtu8-nlmUGG2A%3A1612192578081&ei=QhsYYOSdBNHYz7sP3MuzwAo&q=bhupi+sherchan&gs_ssp=eJzj4tLP1TcwKjIrSC4yYPTiS8ooLchUKM5ILUrOSMwDAHuCCTw&oq=bhu&gs_lcp=CgZwc3ktYWIQARgBMgQIIxAnMgUILhCRAjIHCAAQyQMQQzIFCAAQkgMyBAgAEAMyAggAMgUILhCxAzICCC4yAgguMgIILjoHCCMQsAMQJzoHCAAQsAMQQzoKCAAQsAMQFBCHAjoFCAAQsAM6CggjEM0DECcQiwM6BwgjECcQiwM6BAguEEM6CAguELEDEIMBOgUIABCxAzoECAAQQzoLCC4QsQMQxwEQowJQkIkKWOWLCmC4pwpoA3AAeACAAfMCiAG6B5IBBTItMS4ymAEAoAEBqgEHZ3dzLXdpesgBCLgBAsABAQ&sclient=psy-ab 4 Ashesh Dangol is one of the most influential young noncommercial blues musicians from Kathmandu. It has been more than 2 decade he is engaged in blues music. We had done his live recording in “Social café” 7 pm, Baluwatar. https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=ashesh+dangol have a good day

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The Kathmandu Valley Metro

The Tunnelling Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 30, 2020 27:13

Kathmandu is set in a bowl valley in the foothills of the Himalayas. It has more heritage sites than any other city in the world and is the economic powerhouse for the developing nation of Nepal. It has a bustling society and an irreplaceable culture, but what it does not have is a public transport...

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Leading the fight for transgender rights

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2020 36:47

Rukshana Kapali is a firebrand. At 21 she is leading efforts to change Nepal's laws so they include transgender men and women, and spearheading work to develop terminology in Nepali, and Nepal bhasa (or Newa language), that is inclusive of people who identify anywhere along the gender spectrum. She has led campaigns to protect lands of Kathmandu Valley's Indigenous Newa people and has joined heritage activists to ensure that an ancient, sacred pond in the centre of Nepal's capital Kathmandu was rebuilt following traditional designs. Less than 10 years ago Rukshana was a bullied, confused student furtively surfing the Net in cyber cafes trying to understand why she knew she was a girl but living in a boy's body. “I spent a lot of money on Facebook back then,” she says. Today, Rukshana leads the community of young Queer activists in Nepal fighting to get their rights recognized in law and also calling for recognition from the established LGBTQI community. Unsurprisingly, she is also embarking on a law career. On today's episode we'll hear more from Rukshana about the very eventful and influential journey that she is taking. ResourcesRukshana's blogNepal Now social linksFacebookInstagramTwitterMusic: amaretto needs ice ... by urmymuse (c) copyright 2018 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/urmymuse/57996 Ft: Apoxode--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/nepalnow/message

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Leading the fight for transgender rights

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Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2020 36:47

Rukshana Kapali is a firebrand. At 21 she is leading efforts to change Nepal’s laws so they include transgender men and women, and spearheading work to develop terminology in Nepali, and Nepal bhasa (or Newa language), that is inclusive of people who identify anywhere along the gender spectrum. She has led campaigns to protect lands of Kathmandu Valley’s Indigenous Newa people and has joined heritage activists to ensure that an ancient, sacred pond in the centre of Nepal’s capital Kathmandu was rebuilt following traditional designs. Less than 10 years ago Rukshana was a bullied, confused student furtively surfing the Net in cyber cafes trying to understand why she knew she was a girl but living in a boy’s body. “I spent a lot of money on Facebook back then,” she says. Today, Rukshana leads the community of young Queer activists in Nepal fighting to get their rights recognized in law and also calling for recognition from the established LGBTQI community. Unsurprisingly, she is also embarking on a law career. On today’s episode we’ll hear more from Rukshana about the very eventful and influential journey that she is taking. Resources Rukshana's blog Nepal Now social links Facebook Instagram Twitter Music: amaretto needs ice ... by urmymuse (c) copyright 2018 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/urmymuse/57996 Ft: Apoxode --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/nepalnow/message

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Three Fruits: Nepali Ayurvedic Doctors on Health, Nature and Social Change, Mary Cameron, Ph.D.

In Conversation

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 17, 2020 20:25

Dean Horswell engages in conversation with Professor Mary Cameron, Ph.D., about her 2019 book Three Fruits: Nepali Ayurvedic Doctors on Health, Nature and Social Change.Mary M. Cameron first encountered an Ayurvedic medical practice in remote, western Nepal in 1978. In Three Fruits, Cameron traces Ayurvedic medical practices from those village healers to the professionally trained doctors in the Kathmandu Valley. https://www.amazon.com/Three-Fruits-Anthropology-Well-Being-Individual/dp/1498594239

My Beloved Nepal Part-Earthquake Diaries-Part 1

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Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2019 15:51

For Nepal 2015 will go down as one of the worst years on record, for disasters, politics, everything! On April 25 at 11:56am an earthquake with a magnitude of 7.8 shook the country from it's epicenter at Lamjung District at Barpak, Gorkha. In the weeks to follow hundreds of aftershocks would be felt. In the end over 9000 were killed at least 21,000 injured and hundreds of thousands displaced from their homes either temporarily or permanently. I decided to follow up on the state of the country shortly after most of the international media had left. My intention was to document the effects of the earthquakes and aftershocks and assess the conditions for travellers. Nepal relies heavily on tourism to support the economy, in fact it is normally 10% of the GDP, gross domestic product. Many rely on tourism to support their families, in some cases the only alternative to working abroad, something that over 1 million Nepalis do. Having made friends in Nepal's tourism industry I had deep concerns for their welfare. Some international media were reporting that this would be the end of tourism for Nepal, devastating words almost as strong as an earthquake itself. I knew that some sites were completely destroyed including many temples in the Durbar Squares of the Kathmandu Valley. But I also knew that many had either suffered some minor damage or none at all. Was the industry really in ruins? So I set off for Nepal, with a scheduled arrival for 1pm at Tribhuvan Airport in Kathmandu. My adventure started just before we were about to land with an announcement from the pilot that another earthquake had struck the country. Our descent would be delayed so crews could check for any damage to the runways. Ninety minutes later we touched down to a country shaken into another level of fear with a 7.3 aftershock with an epicenter 18km southeast of Kodari near the border of China. The epicenter was on the border of Dolakha and Sindhupalchowk. More nights of sleeping outdoors, shops and businesses staying closed, and stories floating around of more, stronger earthquakes on the way. The first episode in a series on Far East Adventure Travel-the people, stories, and places effected by the Nepal earthquakes of 2015.

Tyler McMahon innovates water In Nepal

jivetalking

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2019 58:08

Episode 34: Tyler McMahon is an entrepreneur based in Colorado, USA and Kathmandu, Nepal. He graduated in 2007 from Colorado College with a degree in Economics focused on Environmental and Water Resource Economics. During this, in 2006 he studied abroad on the School for International Training (SIT) Nepal program and developed a proposal for a Fulbright Scholarship on the Economics of Urban Rainwater Harvesting in the Kathmandu Valley, which he won and went back to Nepal in 2007-2008. After this he worked for the UN World Food Progamme in Nepal on monitoring and evaluation and sustainability, which included the largest urban solar system in Kathmandu which set a trend for urban solar. In 2011, wanting to pursue the research from his Fulbright more and the fact that there was a market, need and few suppliers for rainwater harvesting, he started pitching people on the concept. Tyler McMahon, Suman Shakya, and Hem Narayan Shrestha and two others started SmartPaani in September 2011. On the side he races mountain bikes and trail runs, including competing the world's highest and one of the hardest mountain bike stage races, The Yak Attack, 6 times. This episode's motto: "Cheap in the short run is expensive in the long run." Tyler's description of Smartpaani: "SmartPaani (http://smartpaani.com) started in Nepal in 2011, a direct result of my Fulbright (07-08) research on the economics of urban rainwater harvesting and subsequent efforts to get US properties to adopt it as well, along with my work at the UN World Food Programme on sustainability. The company provides a complete set of sustainable water management solutions: rainwater harvesting, water filtration, and wastewater treatment and recycling. These are primarily designed and built in Nepal, with a few products imported to complete the service offering. To date the company has reached over 2000 clients. These include rainwater harvesting systems that collect 50 million liters and recharge 150 million liters back into the ground regularly. Our clean water systems at schools cover more than 35,000 students and our wastewater treatment systems treat and recycle more than 20,000 liters daily. Finally our water filtration system for businesses, resorts and outdoor event management have eliminated the need for more than 40,000 plastic water bottles. Our clients range from households, schools, and larger companies and industries including being the primary urban partner for Coca Cola's water neutrality project. SmartPaani's systems have also been instrumental in one of the most eco-friendly resorts in Asia, Pavilions Himalaya and recently in the new Green School for Blink Now Foundation/Kopila Valley where they both water 3 times before it leaves the premises. The company's ability to address SDG #6 through sustainable water supply access, clean/safe drinking water, and wastewater treatment is unique and has won it recognition through Case Western University's Aim2Flourish award in 2017 and University of Michigan's Positive Business Award in 2018." (The company pitch is a bit long, but trying to work out a pitch that captures our array of services and unique ability to attack the urban and even rural clean water issue with a multi-pronged approach)."

Himal Interviews: The Wayward Daughter with Shradha Ghale

Himal Southasian Podcast Channel

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 27, 2018 15:22

Shradha Ghale’s debut novel The Wayward Daughter has been critically acclaimed by reviewers in Nepal for treading fresh ground. Avoiding the big-ticket events of the country’s contemporary history, Ghale’s novel tells the story of a young girl coming of age in a changing 1990s Kathmandu, revealing the intersections of class, caste and identity in urban Nepal. In our latest episode of Himal Interviews podcast, our Editor Aunohita Mojumdar caught up with Ghale on a sunny terrace in Kathmandu Valley. Ghale spoke about her novel, why her journalism doesn’t overlap with her fiction writing, and the risks of not translating the country to a wider audience. Go to www.himalmag.com for more on politics and culture in Southasia. ---------------------------------------------------- Intro and outro music derived from 'Ways of Rahjan' by Ask Again from Free Music Archive.

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Episode 010 - Jason Shah | Travel Fanatic & one half of SherpaShah

Get Out

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2018 92:37

Jason Shah is a travel ideator fascinated by cultural narratives, food heritage and identity. Over the past few years, he has been actively involved in promoting such ideas, highlighting similar interests, and inspiring several individuals in Nepal. As one half of SherpaShah, he, along with like-minded friends and patrons, creates immersive travel experiences across the Kathmandu Valley. In this episode, listen to their numerous initiatives that are encouraging the country's youth to explore more! ******* Nepali TravellersVisit their website See their Facebook page Follow them on Instagram Subscribe to their YouTube channel Raithaane See their Facebook page SherpaShahVisit their website See their Facebook page Follow them on instagram Jason ShahFollow him on facebook Pemba Sherpa KhambacheFollow him on Instagram ******* Also, mentioned in this episode Couchsurfing Everest Gorkha Kathmandu Adventure Club Kathmandu Food Connections Mathilde Lefebvre Miss NepaliTravellers Mona Aditya PatanSquared Photo Kathmandu Prashanta Kanal Semester At Sea Shally Sherpa Himalayan SWO-YATRA Samikchya Sharma Susan Karmacharya Women Lead ******* Show cover jingle courtesy of Icons8 Music by Nordgroove from Fugue

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Start of Buddhism and Hinduism in Kathmandu Valley / Shamanic Sound Expert Byron Metcalf / Preparing Our Spiritual Field

Spiritual Fizz

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2018 30:06

In the foothills of the Himalayas we find the Kathmandu Valley where Buddhism and Hinduism developed thousands of years ago. Byron Metcalf is a percussionist and recording engineer who is also a shamanic practitioner and has a Ph.D. in transpersonal psychology. We’re speaking with Byron about how music and sound can be used to help heal our states of consciousness. Learn about upcoming mindful events and spiritual observances like the pagan holiday Lammas which celebrates the beginning of the harvest. Show Segments Intro: 00:00Intro: 00:00 Spiritual Reflection: Preparing Our Spiritual Field: 01:18 Spiritual Events and Observances: Lammas: 02:14 Spiritual Places: Start of Buddhism and Hinduism in Kathmandu Valley: 03:00 Featured Guest: Shamanic Sound Expert Byron Metcalf: 04:14 Outro: 28:06 Our Featured Guest Byron Metcalf is a percussionist and recording engineer who is also a shamanic practitioner and has a Ph.D. in transpersonal psychology, and a master’s degree in counseling psychology. Byron has been a featured presenter at seminars and conferences on the healing potential of music and sound technologies. You can find out more about Byron at his website. Show Resources and Links The Kathmandu Valley in Nepal. The pagan holiday of Lammas. Join our Spiritual Community Today Get exclusive access to podcasts, videos, our private Facebook group and more. Available only to Spiritual Fizz subscribers. Find out more about the Spiritual Fizz Podcast Please support us by subscribing to this podcast on iTunes and tell your friends about us. We look forward to being with you next time when we talk more about the connections between the spiritual and physical worlds.

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Earthquake Diaries From Nepal-Part V(Conclusion)-A Test Of Strength And Resiliency

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Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2017 23:48

The last few days I spent in Nepal during the earthquakes of 2015 were a whirlwind of visiting villages in the Kathmandu Valley and the remote hard hit Sindhupalchowk District. At least two thirds of all of the houses in Sindhupalchowk were destroyed. It was shocking as we rode up the windy road to one of the most remote villages, Thangpalkot I to see twisted buildings and piles of stones that were once homes. I met one young man that lost his guesthouse and had no idea how he would support his wife and daughter in the short term. Many of the younger people in the families around Sindhupalchowk were contemplating leaving the country to find work in order to save the money it would take to rebuild. In the Kathmandu Valley some villages lost historic buildings and temples, like Bungamati's Rato Machhendranath Temple, where the patron God of Patan deity usually presides. When I returned later in the year many of the villages and sites I saw in May had been cleaned up and there were more temporary shelters in place but the work had not yet begun at almost all locations. Nepal was also in the middle of a fuel crisis, spurred on by a constitution that wasn't favorable to villages in the Terai region. It was believed India was also in disfavor of the new constitution and held back deliveries of fuel giving the reason that drivers and trucks did not feel secure crossing the border. Most tourists were still able to move around the country by bus and with internal flights but Nepalis were preparing less vegetables in order to conserve cooking fuel. Less fuel also meant less goods available in stores and higher prices at the markets. The country and it's people could not think about rebuilding in this unfavorable environment. Today the work still remains painfully slow, especially in the remote regions like Sindhupalchowk but the country's state of panic has passed. When I visited Nepal in May of 2015 my intention was to support tourism and get the message out that although it wasn't the best time to visit during the aftermath, the country and it's people were still counting on tourism to help sustain the economy and families. It wasn't a surprise that many people cancelled their plans for a fall visit and a fuel crisis was not exactly a sign that things were stable. Today among other projects including two podcasts and a YouTube Channel I find myself a partner in a trekking and tour company based in Nepal with a personal stake in bringing tourism back to the country. I visited Nepal at my own expense during the earthquakes, no trekking adventures or relaxing days around Phewa Lake in Pokhara. I was there to document the damage, speak to people that were deeply affected by the destruction and share on social media that immediate help was needed and long term support of tourism was necessary. Most of the great trails of Nepal saw little or no damage as a result of the earthquakes and the south, the birthplace of the Buddha and some of the best wildlife viewing in the world were completely unaffected. Only 15% of the world heritage sites were damaged or destroyed. For every trekker or tourist that visits Nepal at least seven Nepalis benefit during that time spent in the country. Visiting Nepal whether you use my company or someone else's will have a huge impact on the recovery from one of South Asia's worst natural disasters. Beyond the knowledge and awareness of how valuable your tourist dollars are to the country I believe you will feel like you've had one of the most memorable and meaningful vacations of your life. For more information on travel and trekking in Nepal visit our website:https://explorehimalayan.com Please support Far East Adventure Travel with your donation:paypal.me/JohnASaboe Write a podcast review and help others discover the Far East Adventure Travel:https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/adventure-travel-far-east-inspired-by-rick-steves-lonely/id890305531?mt=2

Earthquake Diaries, Nepal-Documentary Series-Part III-"Royal Squares And Ruins"

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Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2017 28:46

Thank you for joining me as Earthquake Diaries from Nepal continues with part 3. In this journey through my days of visiting the many earthquake affected sites of Nepal in May 2015 I saw places within the Kathmandu Valley that experienced minimal damage to towns like Sankhu village that almost completely collapsed as a result of the April 25th and May 12th earthquakes.In Sankhu village we walked through alleys and streets that were literally crumbling around us as residents were beginning the huge task of breaking down buildings, salvaging bricks and precious wooden window frames in order to rebuild their home in another location. Others were returning to what remained of their homes to recover personal items. Far East Adventure Travel depends on listener and viewer support. Your donation of $5, $10, $20, or $30 dollars or more helps with production and travel costs. Follow the link to my paypal account in the show notes and make a donation now. I will send a small souvenir from Taiwan for anyone who makes a donation of $40 dollars or more.-Donate to: paypal.me/JohnASaboeFind out more about traveling and trekking in Nepal: https://explorehimalayan.comVideo Podcast:https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/adventure-travel-far-east-inspired-by-rick-steves-lonely/id890305531?mt=2

Earthquake Diaries From Nepal-Part IV-Death, Destruction, Rebuilding

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Play Episode Listen Later May 3, 2017 22:23

Part IV of Earthquake Diaries From Nepal begins in historic Sankhu Village, approximately 45 minutes by car from Thamel-Kathmandu it is located in the northwest corner of the Kathmandu Valley. It is where many religious festivals take place and was a stop on the original salt trade route from Tibet. I visited Sankhu a few times during my stay in May 2015. Outside of the Sindhupalchowk region this was one of the most devastated villages I witnessed in the Kathmandu Valley. Many locals were willing to share their experience and loss and it was not only heartbreaking but extremely overwhelming to hear the stories of losing brothers, sisters, mothers and fathers, along with friends and relatives as a result of the earthquakes. There was also a miracle rescue when the sister of a man who had lost two other sisters, his father, and two domestic workers of the family, was pulled from the rubble of their house 5 hours after the initial earthquake. The site of people living in terrible conditions along the Bisnumati River was shocking. There were tented camps in Kathmandu with much better conditions but locals did not want to be far from their homes fearing looting or theft. There were aftershocks almost everyday sending more fear of yet another big earthquake on the way. Please send me any feedback on this documentary series to john@fareastadventuretravel.com. This podcast can’t happen without public support, help me continue to produce this series that I hope helps you either plan your next big adventure or allows you to imagine travelling at a time when it’s maybe not possible. A donation of $10, $20, $30 or more helps meet production costs and travel expenses. Support Far East Adventure Travel with your donation today: paypal.me/JohnASaboe Nepal Travel and Trek Planning: explorehimalayan.com Write a Podcast Review:https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/adventure-travel-far-east-inspired-by-rick-steves-lonely/id890305531?mt=2

Earthquake Diaries From Nepal-Part III-Visiting The Heritage Sites

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2017 14:56

My Earthquake Diaries Nepal documentary series continues with part 2 and a “cry for tourism”. This episode follows my first few days of walking through the streets and alleyways of Kathmandu, visiting many sites that had suffered damage, destruction and terrible loss. I met tour guides and taxi drivers that saw a future of little or no work. And one afternoon I came across a group in Kathmandu’s Durbar Square conducting a desperate rally for unity within the tourism industry. I also traveled around the Kathmandu Valley visiting some of the most popular landmarks and Unesco World Heritage sites including Boudhanath, the Tibetan Village, the great Pashupatinath Hindu Temple complex, and the medieval village of Bhaktapur to see first-hand the damage to these sites that in the past have attracted travellers from around the world. This podcast can’t happen without public support, help me continue to produce this series that I hope helps you either plan your next big adventure or allows you to imagine travelling at a time when it’s maybe not possible. A donation of $10, $20, $30 or more helps meet production costs and travel expenses. Support Far East Adventure Travel with your donation today: paypal.me/JohnASaboe Nepal Travel and Trek Planning: explorehimalayan.com Write a Podcast Review:https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/adventure-travel-far-east-inspired-by-rick-steves-lonely/id890305531?mt=2

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Earthquake Diaries, Nepal-Documentary Series-Part II-"A Cry For Tourism"

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2017 46:49

My Earthquake Diaries Nepal documentary series continues with part 2 and a “cry for tourism”. This episode follows my first few days of walking through the streets and alleyways of Kathmandu, visiting many sites that had suffered damage, destruction and terrible loss. I met tour guides and taxi drivers that saw a future of little or no work. And one afternoon I came across a group in Kathmandu’s Durbar Square conducting a desperate rally for unity within the tourism industry. I also traveled around the Kathmandu Valley visiting some of the most popular landmarks and Unesco World Heritage sites including Boudhanath, the Tibetan Village, the great Pashupatinath Hindu Temple complex, and the medieval village of Bhaktapur to see first-hand the damage to these sites that in the past have attracted travellers from around the world. This podcast can’t happen without public support, help me continue to produce this series that I hope helps you either plan your next big adventure or allows you to imagine travelling at a time when it’s maybe not possible. A donation of $10, $20, $30 or more helps meet production costs and travel expenses. Support Far East Adventure Travel with your donation today: paypal.me/JohnASaboe Nepal Travel and Trek Planning: explorehimalayan.com Write a Podcast Review: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/adventure-travel-far-east-inspired-by-rick-steves-lonely/id1079513943?mt=2

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Earthquake Diaries From Nepal-Part II-Shocking Destruction

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Play Episode Listen Later Apr 26, 2017 15:47

As I assemble this series from my days in Nepal during the earthquakes of 2015 the memories of fear, shock, and helplessness are painfully resurrected. People from all walks of life, sleeping outdoors for fear of another earthquake that could collapse their house, if they still had one. The site of shocking destruction, streets where buildings were folded like an accordian. Apartment blocks levelled to the ground with the remains of personal and household items scattered amongst the debris. And the helplessness of watching people struggle to find food and shelter and listening to the stories of relatives that fell to death. There was much talk of more earthquakes and rumors that another one was inevitable, perhaps larger than any of the previous tremors that shook the country. Even if you wore a mask the dust that floated around the Kathmandu Valley from the thousands of buildings that collapsed seemed to find a way deep into your lungs. There was also a light and warmth that you felt from the hundreds of volunteers from around the world that were there to serve their fellow humankind. A nurse from The Netherlands working in one of the local hospitals, a young Taiwanese backpacker that decided to postpone the rest of her trip to help out. A Japanese medical team whom when I asked how long they would stay, they simply responded, "as long as necessary". And Nepalis themselves organizing shelters, and meals for the homeless. The country's tourism industry is beginning to rebound which is one of the best ways to lend support to the rebuilding of Nepal. For every tourist that visits the country at least seven people are affected in a positive way directly. Planning a trekking or cultural trip, and even a safari is not only an enriching personal experience, it's a step towards helping one of the most deserving people anywhere on the planet. You're welcome to check out trip ideas with our travel company in Nepal, just follow the link below. Nepal Trekking and Tours:https://explorehimalayan.com If you enjoy watching the Far East Adventure Travel Podcast please help others discover travel inspiration for East, Southeast, and South Asia. Follow the link below, click Ratings and Reviews, rate the podcast out of 5 stars, then write a review. Write A Podcast Review:https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/adventure-travel-far-east-inspired-by-rick-steves-lonely/id890305531?mt=2 Subscribe to the Far East Adventure Travel Audio Podcast:https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/adventure-travel-far-east-inspired-by-rick-steves-lonely/id1079513943?mt=2

Earthquake Diaries From Nepal-Part 1 "7.3 On Arrival"

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Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2017 15:51

It’s been 2 years since the first of several earthquakes and tremors terrorized the Himalayan nation of Nepal. It was April 25th, 2015 at 11:56am local time when a magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck the country. It was followed by several hundred aftershocks and another 7.3 tremor on May 12 that in total killed nearly 9,000 people and injured over 22,000 leaving many homeless. To this day thousands are still not living in a permanent home. Having visited the country on several occasions over the years when I first heard the news of the devastation I thought I should plan a trip to see first-hand how severely damaged the country was and it’s tourism infrastructure. I knew that the media reports of a ruined tourism industry would have a huge impact on the nation and it’s people that desperately rely on tourists to earn a living. I also wanted to encourage other people to visit the country either through volunteering to help with the recovery or once the situation had stabilized, make their own travel plans to Nepal, as this is one of the most effective ways to help the country rebuild. My flight was due to arrive at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan Airport May the 12th at 2pm. Approximately 1 hour before we were due to land the pilot announced another earthquake had struck Nepal and our descent would be delayed until crews finished a runway safety check. The plane went completely silent, passengers mostly all Nepalis returning home for the first time since the devastation, fearing more loss. This documentary series, comprised of recorded live streams, apologies for the inferior quality, along with regular footage I captured is my diary of the 20 days I spent in Nepal during some of the most desperate moments in the country’s history. After 90 minutes of circling the Kathmandu Valley on May 12, 2015 we were finally cleared for landing. This is where my story begins. I would love to get your feedback on the podcast either by email to john@fareastadventuretravel.com or just message me on the Far East Adventure Travel Facebook page. In China you can contact me on Weibo as fareastadventure. If you want to find out more about visiting Nepal you can check out our travel page Explore Himalayan. The link is in the show notes of this podcast. I’ll also leave a link in the show notes to my photo essay “Voices Of Nepal” published last year in the Impossible Project Magazine. Write A Podcast Review:https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/adventure-travel-far-east-inspired-by-rick-steves-lonely/id890305531?mt=2 Travel Information For Nepal:https://explorehimalayan.com John Saboe "Voices Of Nepal"-https://magazine.the-impossible-project.com/voices-of-nepal/?utm_source=Impossible+Magazine&utm_campaign=4ecd6c44b0-Magazine_Monthly_Newsletter_July_2016&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_3aa46766f1-4ecd6c44b0-91484753&mc_cid=4ecd6c44b0&mc_eid=af7b26c1ba

Nepal's Living Goddess

Heart and Soul

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 3, 2016 27:00

In the centre of Patan City in Nepal resides a living goddess, a child as young as four, chosen to host a deity of invincible feminine power. On her young shoulders rests the fate of the nation. Goddesses in many religious traditions around the world exist only in the spiritual realm, symbolised by statues and icons. But in Nepal they live and breathe and take the form of young girls – the kumari. For centuries Hindus and Buddhists across the Kathmandu Valley have worshiped these young Buddhist girls believed to be possessed by the Hindu goddess Taleju. Selected so young, it is no easy task being a kumari – for reasons of purity they are taken out of school, only allowed to communicate with a select few, and are not allowed to walk on the ground outside of their homes. They are expected to sit still for long hours whilst giving blessings to thousands of visitors. But the kumari’s reign as a living deity is short. Upon her first period she is retired and replaced. Her powers are believed instantly lost and she must then negotiate how to become a normal teenager. As part of the 100 Women Season, Sahar Zand joins the thousands of Nepalese Hindus and Buddhists on leave from work and school as they celebrate the national festival of Dashain. Sahar explores the symbolic status of blood, the importance of sacrificing animals during Dashain festival and why when a kumari first menstruates the goddess is believed to vacate her body. Sahar meets solicitor Subin Mulmi who argues the strict rules of purity and segregation surrounding the kumari are detrimental to the child’s freedom and education. However, a former kumari Chanira Bajracharya, who despite describing the trauma of her first day transitioning from goddess to mortal, advocates this ancient tradition must be continued for the spiritual and cultural identity of Nepal.

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Trekking The Great Annapurna Circuit, Nepal Part II

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 8, 2016 15:27

It’s a shame that many drive through this part of the circuit for upper Annapurna trekking and stays missing the epic river and waterfall views in this portion of the trail. The suspension bridge crossings that put you right in the middle of the energy path of the mighty Marshyangdi are breathtaking. This is now the third day of trekking and the mornings are feeling a little colder and crisper, so it’s important to get out right after the sun has risen so there’s plenty of time to walk in the warmer temps. In keeping with the original trail, which does take a little longer to walk, we have the opportunity to trek through more little villages for leisurely breaks. Across the valley what looks like a thin ledge carved out of the mountainside is the road that transports people and goods. From a distance the jeeps traveling the road almost appear to be literally on the edge of the cliff as they meander along. Another epic suspension bridge crossing with sweeping views of the Marshyangdi and surrounding valley. If you’re scared of heights you’ll eventually get used to these crossings-you have too! There’s no other way! After reaching Dhranapani, an important crossroads and trekking permit check-in office we agreed to just make this a lunch stop rather than an overnight stay and move a little further up the valley to Danaqyu village where we’d spend the night. This an important crossroads where the Manaslu trail meets up with the Annapurna Circuit. The Mansalu area was affected by the earthquakes of 2015 but things have since normalized. The Nepalese army along with help from locals and NGO’s have cleared away the fallen rocks from the trails over the past year. Prince Harry was even seen in this region in 2016 trekking and pitching in to help rebuild a school that had been damaged. Horses and goats on the side of the road and crossing paths with other herd animals was a sign we were nearing our stop for the night-Danaqyu. Dhranapani is a major crossroads for trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit and the Mansalu trail so it’s nice to kick back in a little village that has less traffic. Because there so many spots like Danaqyu on the Annapurna Circuit with great lodges you could trek this trail a few times and have a completely experience. This season following the devastating earthquakes was quiet to begin with. It would be another night in a lodge as the only guests. The next day’s destination was Chame, the administration center of Manang District. We had some climbing to tackle as our first challenge of the day, over 450 meters up to Timang. The promise of views of Manaslu and Annapurna II was motivating and helpful on a climb first thing in the morning. More bridges to cross, and animals like big yaks to yield to. It’s hit or miss whether you’ll see any of the Manaslu massif. On this day we missed. Mansalu is the 8th highest mountain in the world, first summited by Japanese mountaineers in 1956. Just as the British have claimed Everest as their mountain, the Japanese consider Mansalu a Japanese mountain. But just before our lunch stop at Koto on the way to Chame we caught the first glimpse of Annapurna II, at 7937 meters, the second highest peak in the 6 mountain range. It was a magnificent site and a wonderful welcome to this part of the region. The Annapurna translation from Sanskrit means “full of food” which makes sense as the normal translation is Goddess of the Harvests or the kitchen Goddess, the mother who feeds. Chame is the headquarters of Manang District, which is the least populated district in all of Nepal, with a total count of over 6500. Many Manangies are also traders having been given special permission by King Mahendra in the 1970’s to trade in Southeast Asia. Customs duties were waived and many now reside mostly in the Kathmandu Valley. They import electronics, watches, and other items and are allowed to export goods like precious stones, metals, and herbs among other things. The largest ethnic group in Manang District are the Gurung people, who over centuries have adopted Tibetan Buddhism, the signs of this are evident in the village with Buddhist stupas that hold relics and the remains sometimes of lamas, and mani walls for prayer. The next day we left with Lower Pisang village as our next destination. Not far outside of Chame we came across what I had been observing especially in this part of Nepal-signs of a new era of tourism, with young Nepali entrepreneurs bringing new ideas from the outside. Like this Apple Orchard using the latest strains in apple production. I spoke with the owner of this large orchard, Samraj Gurung about his inspiration for this new breed of apple orchard. After a tea and some fresh crisp golden delicious apples from Samraj’s orchard we were back on the trail. Hari my guide, who is Gurung himself joins in with a local senior for a mid-morning Buddhist chant. We’re now at Dhukurpokhary, home of the Paunga Danda rock wall, or gateway to heaven. A massive mountain of stone thatt literally looks like a giant wall reaching towards the sky. Locals believe that all souls of the deceased must ascend Paunga Danda after leaving their bodies. Our stop for the night Pisang. The area consists of a lower village at 3200 meters and an upper more traditional old Tibetan style walled village at 3300 meters. The lower village has more lodge choices and shops so we opted for a night there. Mani walls, the stone walls made of tablets with the inscription om mani padme hum, meaning “jewel in the lotus” are found everywhere here. Pisang reminds me of Nepal’s Upper Mustang Tibetan/Buddhist region and Tibet itself, environmentally and culturally. Many residents leave for the Kathmandu Valley or other places during the winter months but we’re still able to see some traditional village life, spinning prayer wheels, and the smell of juniper burning as Buddhist offerings. Next time on Far East Adventure Travel Trekking The Great Annapurna Circuit, Nepal continues.

Far East Adventure Travel Best of "Live" Nepal Part 2-Kathmandu/Tihar Festival

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Play Episode Listen Later Oct 2, 2016 14:11

2015 will go down as one of the most challenging if not the most disastrous year ever for Nepal. From the worst earthquakes in over 80 years to a fuel crisis that literally turned the country upside down with line-ups at the pump that lasted for days to a lack of basic cooking and heating fuel for the majority of the population.I visited the country twice in 2015. My second visit was in October and November when I returned to trek the Annapurna Circuit and check up on the conditions of recovery from the earthquakes.As I had heard reports before I arrived that virtually no reconstruction had begun I was not shocked to see things, especially in the Kathmandu Valley, had not changed other then some rubble had been cleared away.The fuel crisis had created food shortages and delayed plans for rebuilding. From a tourist’s point of view this could be easily seen by shortened menus in popular restaurants to some establishments even closing their doors frustrated by the lack of ingredients available and the extreme costs and shortages of cooking fuel. Nepalis were frustrated with their festival plans either from the lack of reliable transportation getting to a from their home village to the shortage of special food for celebrations cooking fuel.Still despite the politics that created the fuel crisis, an unofficial Indian embargo as a result from a new constitution which did not favour ethnic groups in the south, Nepalis seemed to carry on as they usually do through adversity.After spending a few days in Pokhara following my trek of the Annapurna Circuit I returned to Nepal in time for the Tihar Festival, otherwise called “the festival of lights”. In other South Asian countries and communities around the world it’s known as Diwali.Join me for talk and highlights from Kathmandu's Durbar Square, the latest Far East Adventure Travel podcast.

Far East Adventure Travel Best of "Live" Nepal-Pokhara To Kathmandu

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Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2016 12:46

2015 will go down as one of the most challenging if not the most disastrous year ever for Nepal. From the worst earthquakes in over 80 years to a fuel crisis that literally turned the country upside down with line-ups at the pump that lasted for days to a lack of basic cooking and heating fuel for the majority of the population.I visited the country twice in 2015. The first time was just after the devastating earthquakes and tremors that started April 25th. My flight was actually denied clearance for landing for over 90 minutes on May 12 while crews checked the runway for safety after the second biggest earthquake struck the country that day.My second visit was in October and November when I returned to trek the Annapurna Circuit and check up on the conditions of recovery from the earthquakes.As I had heard reports before I arrived that virtually no reconstruction had begun I was not shocked to see things, especially in the Kathmandu Valley, had not changed other then some rubble had been cleared away.The fuel crisis had created food shortages and delayed plans for rebuilding. Nepalis were frustrated with their festival plans either from the lack of reliable transportation getting to a from their home village to the shortage of special food for celebrations cooking fuel.Still despite the politics that created the fuel crisis, an unofficial Indian embargo as a result from a new constitution which did not favour ethnic groups in the south, Nepalis seemed to carry on as they usually do through adversity. I spent time in Pokhara after my trek through Annapurna visiting the beautiful World Peace Pagoda as well as enjoying the celebrations of Tihar, the festival of lights in Kathmandu. In the latest episode of Far East Adventure Travel join me for “live” highlights from last November in Nepal.

Nepal 2015-"Best Of Far East Travels "Live" Part 2

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Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2016 14:35

2015 will go down as one of the most challenging if not the most disastrous year ever for Nepal. From the worst earthquakes in over 80 years to a fuel crisis that literally turned the country upside down with line-ups at the pump that lasted for days to a lack of basic cooking and heating fuel for the majority of the population. I visited the country twice in 2015. The first time was just after the devastating earthquakes and tremors that started April 25th. My flight was actually denied clearance for landing for over 90 minutes on May 12 while crews checked the runway for safety after the second biggest earthquake struck the country that day. My second visit was in October and November when I returned to trek the Annapurna Circuit and check up on the conditions of recovery from the earthquakes. As I had heard reports before I arrived that virtually no reconstruction had begun I was not shocked to see things, especially in the Kathmandu Valley, had not changed other then some rubble had been cleared away. The fuel crisis had created food shortages and delayed plans for rebuilding. From a tourist's point of view this could be easily seen by shortened menus in popular restaurants to some establishments even closing their doors frustrated by the lack of ingredients available and the extreme costs and shortages of cooking fuel. As well as some landmarks and monument still noticeably in need of repair or reconstruction. Nepalis were frustrated with their festival plans either from the lack of reliable transportation getting to a from their home village to the shortage of special food for celebrations cooking fuel. Still despite the politics that created the fuel crisis, an unofficial Indian embargo as a result from a new constitution which did not favour ethnic groups in the south, Nepalis seemed to carry on as they usually do through adversity. After spending a few days in Pokhara following my trek of the Annapurna Circuit I returned to Nepal in time for the Tihar Festival, otherwise called "the festival of lights". In other South Asian countries and communities around the world it's known as Diwali. It's one of the most exciting times to visit Kathmandu. Marigold garlands are available everywhere to help celebrate the festival and everyone is in a joyous mood. It's also a unique introduction for many into the Hindu religion and culture. To see the various days celebrated in the festival including Kukhar Tihar, the day of the dog, when dogs are decorated with garlands and tikas is enlightening. It's part of the lead up to the most important day of the festival Lakshmi Puja. Lakshmi is the Goddess of wealth and prosperity and it's believed she will visit your home or business on this night and you will be blessed with a prosperous year-if it's cleaned and decorated with flowers, lights, and rangoli art, the street or courtyard designs made of colored sand, flower petals and dry flour. I hope you enjoy the latest episode of Far East Adventure Travel "Live" Best of Nepal 2015 and the exciting days of Kathmandu's Tihar Festival.

Nepal 2015-Best Of Far East Travels "Live"-

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Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2016 10:35

Kathmandu is at it's most colorful with the lead up to Tihar, the festival of lights-marigold garlands are available everywhere for worship and celebration.2015 will go down as one of the most challenging if not the most disastrous year ever for Nepal. From the worst earthquakes in over 80 years to a fuel crisis that literally turned the country upside down with line-ups at the pump that lasted for days to a lack of basic cooking and heating fuel for the majority of the population. I visited the country twice in 2015. The first time was just after the devastating earthquakes and tremors that started April 25th. My flight was actually denied clearance for landing for over 90 minutes on May 12 while crews checked the runway for safety after the second biggest earthquake struck the country that day. My second visit was in October and November when I returned to trek the Annapurna Circuit and check up on the conditions of recovery from the earthquakes. As I had heard reports before I arrived that virtually no reconstruction had begun I was not shocked to see things, especially in the Kathmandu Valley, had not changed other then some rubble had been cleared away. The fuel crisis had created food shortages and delayed plans for rebuilding. From a tourist's point of view this could be easily seen by shortened menus in popular restaurants to some establishments even closing their doors frustrated by the lack of ingredients available and the extreme costs and shortages of cooking fuel. As well as some landmarks and monument still noticeably in need of repair or reconstruction. Nepalis were frustrated with their festival plans either from the lack of reliable transportation getting to a from their home village to the shortage of special food for celebrations cooking fuel. Still despite the politics that created the fuel crisis, an unofficial Indian embargo as a result from a new constitution which did not favour ethnic groups in the south, Nepalis seemed to carry on as they usually do through adversity. I spent time in Pokhara after my trek through Annapurna visiting the beautiful World Peace Pagoda as well as enjoying the celebrations of Tihar, the festival of lights in Kathmandu. In the latest episode of Far East Adventure Travel join me for "live" highlights from last November in Nepal.

A Duck in a Tree 2016-07-30 | Field Consequences

A Duck in a Tree

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 2, 2016 58:11

The 212th of a series of weekly radio programmes created by :zoviet*france: First broadcast 30 July 2016 by Resonance 104.4 FM Thanks to the artists and sound recordists included here for their fine work. track list 01 Aaron Martin - Beaver Falls 02 Marco Lucchi - E così dimenticammo le rose 03 Stephen Sereda - Christmas Industy 04 Stock, Hausen & Walkman - Peters Out 05 Soriah and the Sevens Collective - Saw Dog Manikin 06 Loren Chasse - Setting a Dry Thing Upright 07 Michael Begg | Human Greed - Ameland et Amsterdam 08 Birds of Tin - Self Portrait in Miniature 1 09 Quiet American - Oil Drum Collecting Rainwater, Bhaktapur, Kathmandu Valley, Nepal 10 Circle - Manni 11 Lance Olsen - Edges 05 12 Elizabeth Veldon - Lauren's Big Action Sequence 13 Stefan Schmidt - Yak Ghassoun 14 [unknown sound recordist / BBC] - Taxi – Interior – Ticks Over, Door Opens, Shuts 15 Kemper Norton - Windwept

field tree consequences duck miniature kathmandu valley

My Beloved Nepal-Earthquake Stories Part 4-Sankhu Devastation

Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2016 22:23

Sankhu, is a historic town that sits on the old Tibetan salt trade route in the Kathmandu Valley, 17kmh away from the capital of Kathmandu. I made a few trips to the village in May 2015 that had suffered severe damage and loss from the series of earthquakes and aftershocks that began on April 25. This was a well-preserved traditional Newari town with many entrance gates to the village, and at least 100 different temples and shrines in the area. I listened to many stories from villagers who had lost their loved ones-brothers, sisters, parents, and neighbours. Almost twelve hundred homes damaged, 200 completely destroyed and at least 2000 forced to live in nearby tents or move to another village or town. It was one of the most heart-wrenching experiences during my visit in May. I also met some brave women and men from the Canadian Armed Forces on disaster relief and local people with more money than others willing to share their temporary shelter with other families of Sankhu. Truly the best of humanity. The post My Beloved Nepal-Earthquake Stories Part 4-Sankhu Devastation appeared first on Far East Adventure Travel.

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My Beloved Nepal-Earthquake Stories-Part 3-Fear And Homelessness

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2016 14:56

Soon after I arrived in Kathmandu on May 12, 2015, the day the 7.3 earthquake struck the country fear, like a virus, once again spread throughout cities, towns and villages everywhere. People had just started to resume regular life, minimally their usual routines amid the crumbling buildings, destruction and homelessness that many faced. Tented camps and communities were seen around the Kathmandu Valley with many local volunteers helping their fellow Nepalis in time of need. When the second biggest earthquake struck it sent many people back outside to sleep outdoors, fearing more collapsed buildings, injury or death. I continued to wander the streets of Kathmandu and other towns in the Kathmandu Valley speaking with local people and seeing how their lives were affected by the earthquakes. It was truly inspiring to see Nepalis, themselves affected in some way by the earthquakes helping their fellow citizens. At the same time the stories of fear, loss, death and destruction was overwhelming. I was humbled at the incredible strength and resilience these people demonstrated in circumstances that would be far too difficult for most. The post My Beloved Nepal-Earthquake Stories-Part 3-Fear And Homelessness appeared first on Far East Adventure Travel.

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My Beloved Nepal-Earthquake Stories Part 2-Patan’s Durbar Square

Asia's Storied Traditions

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 26, 2016 15:47

Patan's Durbar Square was closed for several weeks following the earthquakes of 2015. It is currently open to the public. Patan is one of three royal cities in Nepal's Kathmandu Valley, the other two are Kathmandu and Bhaktapur. All three former kingdoms feature a Durbar(royal) Square that are made up of temples, idles, shrines, and a former palace where each royal family lived. When I visited Patan in May 2015 I was saddened by the temporary closure, due to the recent earthquakes, of the beautiful square with it’s intricate carvings, glimmering deity statues and wonderfully restored Newari buildings. I was relieved however to see that many of the structures of the square were miraculously still in tact and overall although there was noticeable damage, it didn’t look as bleak as the first media reports of a tourism industry in ruins. Patan’s official name is Lalitpur along with a number of small communities it’s included in Lalitpur District. It could be argued that it’s Durbar Square is the prettiest of the three in the Kathmandu Valley. It was in the opening scene of the 1992 documentary “Baraka”, that featured scenes of religious and human life from around the world. There is a refinement to the square, it’s fixtures, and buildings unlike the other two Durbar Squares. Perhaps that could be attributed to the community of artisans, and crafts people that have been based there for centuries. Patan is one of my favorite places to visit in the valley. A 15 minute taxi ride from Kathmandu's Thamel section makes it a convenient morning, afternoon, or day trip. Currently Patan's Durbar Square has been undergoing restoration and reconstruction and is open to the public. It's estimated it will take several years for the square to be fully restored to it's pre-earthquake state. As part of the My Beloved Nepal Earthquake Stories series on Far East Adventure Travel part 2, a look at Patan’s Durbar Square, shortly seen after the last massive earthquake on May 12, 2015. The post My Beloved Nepal-Earthquake Stories Part 2-Patan’s Durbar Square appeared first on Far East Adventure Travel.

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Displaying the Past: Pictorial Depictions of the Buddhist Myths and Legends of the Kathmandu Valley (Part 1 of 2)

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 25, 2016 44:45

Alexander Von Rospatt, UC Berkeley

buddhist uc berkeley displaying depiction mythsandlegends pictorial kathmandu valley

Displaying the Past: Pictorial Depictions of the Buddhist Myths and Legends of the Kathmandu Valley (Part 2 of 2)

Asia's Storied Traditions

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 25, 2016 47:44

Alexander Von Rospatt, UC Berkeley

buddhist uc berkeley displaying depiction mythsandlegends pictorial kathmandu valley

Sacred Monkeys, Buddhist Pilgrims-Kathmandu's Swayambunath-The Monkey Temple

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 16, 2016 11:11

Swayambunath or The Monkey Temple is one of the most significant temples to Tibetan Bhuddists of Nepal, perhaps only coming second in importance to Boudhanath, the largest stupa in the country.It is also called the Monkey Temple because holy monkeys live here. Why are they considered holy? It is said that Manjushri the bodhisattva of wisdom and learned raised the hill that Swayambunath sits on. When he let his hair grow long, lice grew eventually transforming into monkeys.This is a virtual walk in real time up the 365 stairs that lead to the platform of Swayambunath. Much of the inspiration of the temple comes from Newar Buddhism. The Newars are the indigenous people of the Kathmandu Valley. The Monkey Temple is an important site for many followers of other Buddhist schools and is also a place of worship for Hindus. It is one of the oldest religious sites in Nepal with evidence suggesting work began on a temple here in the 5th century.My favorite time to come is at sunrise. It’s also a popular fitness site for locals. The time it takes to reach the top can take anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes depending on your physical fitness level. Some days you will see police or Nepali army training here.This was the largest group of monkeys I’d ever seen at one time on the stairs in the 5 years I’ve been visiting Swayambunath. They will usually leave you alone as long as you’re not carrying food they can see, as with most monkeys that share habitat with humans.The Tibetan name for this site means “Sublime Trees” for the various trees found on the hill.The Monkey Temple can also be accessed from a car road from the south leading to the southwest entrance. "Excerpts from Sacred Monkeys, Buddhist Pilgrims-Kathmandu's Swayambunath-The Monkey Temple".

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Nepal's Premier Heritage Town, Bhaktapur-Earthquake Aftermath