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AnimalEcologyEnvironment

Rhinos are Thriving in Nepal

Despite Poaching and Habitat Degradation

by Sanjib Chaudhary
written by Sanjib Chaudhary

Nepal’s 2021 rhino census, taken for the first time in six years, has put the figure at 752 individuals – an increase of 107, with 694 rhinos in Chitwan National Park, 38 in Bardia National Park, 17 in Shuklaphanta National Park, and 3 in Parsa National Park.

Just a few decades ago, the country’s rhino population had been drastically reduced as a result of poaching and habitat degradation. However, anti-poaching and conservation initiatives from the Nepalese government have helped increase numbers over the last six years.

The last rhino count in 2015 found that there were 645 of the animals in the country, with 605 in Chitwan, 29 in Bardia, 8 in Shuklaphanta, and 3 in Parsa. Around 161 rhinos had been killed since the last census, of which 6 were poached.

The greater one-horned rhino population fell to just 100 individuals in Nepal in the 1960s thanks to indiscriminate poaching and habitat destruction, but with the establishment of Chitwan National Park in 1973 and the efforts of strict law enforcement, the population recovered, reaching a total of 612 by the year 2000.

The nationwide count that began on March 22, 2021, involved around 300 people – and 60 elephants. The rhinos were counted by trained observers who recorded information on individual rhinos including sex, approximate age, individual characteristics such as horn size and shape, folds present on the neck and rump, along with body markings including cuts, scars and skin lobes. The cumbersome count had to be stopped twice, after a wild elephant attacked the team in Chitwan and a tiger killed an elephant driver in Bardia.

The rhinos – 2-2.5 metric tonne giants, second only to elephants in size – once roamed the whole of the northern Indian sub-continent, ranging from the Indus, Ganges, and Brahmaputra river basins, from Pakistan in the west to the Indo-Burmese border in the east, including parts of Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan. However, hunting for rhino horns and habitat degradation then saw them restricted to the southern plains of Nepal and north-eastern India.

Birds of Nepal

Rhino in the community forest of Sauraha while The Red-naped Ibis (Pseudibis papillosa) are seen near the river bank. Photo by Nikki Thapa

Poaching Driven by Thriving Black Market

Rhinos have been poached throughout history, and to this day, for their most prized possession – their horns. They are made primarily of keratin, a protein also found in hair, scales, nails, claws, and hooves and long-held to have healing properties in many Asian cultures.

The horns are used in traditional medicines across the continent, in Malaysia, Korea, India, Vietnam, and China – with the latter two the most lucrative of these black markets. Chunks of the horns, or powders made from grinding them down, are used to treat ailments from fevers to gout, headaches to high blood pressure, snakebites, food poisoning, and possession by bad spirits. Meanwhile carved rhino horn cups – once believed to be capable of detecting poison – and figurines are bought for display, and rhino horn jewelry is much in demand.

While Western media has touted its use as an aphrodisiac in Asian cultures, the Scientific American reports that this has always been minimal and that in fact what usage does occur could even be driven by incorrect Western reports suggesting it is widespread. However, rhino horn is becoming increasingly popular for recreational use – in Vietnam, it is consumed as “a party drug, a health supplement and a hangover cure by newly wealthy elites,” as reported by the Guardian.

And it’s not just the horn that is valued. According to Hemanta Mishra and Jim Ottaway Jr in their acclaimed book The Soul of the Rhino, all rhinoceros (Rhinocerotidae) body parts are traded – from the tip of the tongue to the end of the tail. They say, “Many Indians and Chinese still believe a ten-gram dose of powdered rhino horn mixed with cinnabar is an instant cure for any kind of fever. Dried rhino tongue, powdered and mixed with milk, is believed to cure children with speech difficulties. Rhino meat is supposed to increase virility. Rhino urine is taken as a cure for asthma. Even rhino dung is valued as the best fertilizer for growing hot chilies. A rhino tail placed under the pillow of an [expectant] mother is supposed to ease labor pain. Powdered rhino penis is ingested as a cure for impotence.”

Mikania micrantha, also called mile-a-minute, has enveloped large swathes of rhino habitats in protected areas of Nepal. Image by the author.

The rapid spread of the tropical plant mile-a-minute or Mikania micrantha along with other invasive species such as Chromoloeana odorata, Parthenium hysterophorus, Lantana Camara, and water hyacinths, the drying of wetlands and water holes, and vegetation succession have all contributed to the degradation of natural rhino habitats in Nepal. In addition, the encroachment of forest patches in buffer zones and forest corridors, along with the conversion of forest into settlement and agriculture fields, have further fragmented these.

Taking the Initiative

However, despite the threats to their existence, rhinos are now thriving in Nepal. Government agencies, communities, conservation organizations, and security agencies have worked together to revive the population from a paltry 100 individuals. Initiatives including community-based anti-poaching units and patrols by the army – using an Android-based real-time SMART patrol system with CCTV cameras in the protected areas – have played a big part in the preservation of these pachyderms.

The Greater One-horned Rhinoceros Conservation Action Plan for Nepal (2017-2021) has prioritized restoring forests in priority catchments and buffer zones, managing grassland and constructing and maintaining water holes. Nepal has also established effective transboundary cooperation with India and China to protect wild animals including rhinos, and curb the illegal wildlife trade.

Local people, too, are playing their part, with awareness an important factor in providing this protection. Those living in the vicinity of protected areas have realized that conserving forests and wildlife can in fact improve their economic prospects, by attracting tourists. Initiatives aimed at keeping those travelers (and their cash) in local areas and out of big hotels, such as the homestay programs around Chitwan and Bardia National Parks – in which tourists looking for authentic experiences stay with local families – have delivered monetary returns to communities, as reported by Mongabay.

As Mishra writes in The Soul Of The Rhino: “Local people are recognizing that Nepal’s national parks and wildlife reserves help maintain clear air, protect river valleys and water catchments, and save clean water – all lifelines of humanity.”

This article was published in Global Voices

Nepal's 5 most endangered animalsone horned rhinorarest animal found in NepalRhinorhino population in NepalRhinocerosRhinocerotidaewild life in Nepal
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Sama Chakeva clay sculptures by Mira Devi Dutta, B Sama Chakeva clay sculptures by Mira Devi Dutta, Bijay Kumar Dutta, and Priyanka Karna at Kathmandu Triennale (photo1-4). Taragaon Museum, Hyatt, Kathmandu.

A girl carrying a basket full of clay idols for the Sama Chakeva by Sulav Shrestha @sulav.photo 

Tharu girls of Terahaut village in Saptari immersing clay idols on the last day of the Sama Chakheva Festival. By  @sankuchy

Sama Chakeva, a revered festival deeply embedded in the folk traditions of Mithila, unfolds its enchanting rituals in Kartik (Nov/Dec) on the eve of the Chhat Festival. The festivities commence in harmony with the migratory journey of birds, descending from the Himalayas to the southern plains of Nepal. Rooted in the rich tapestry of Puranic lore, this celebration, adorned with folk theater and melodious songs, venerates the profound bond between brothers and sisters.

As the sun dips below the horizon, young, unmarried girls gather near the ghats of Chhath, bearing baskets adorned with idols of Sama and Chakeva, alongside oil lamps, kohl, and everyday clay-made essentials. In the ambient glow of the night, they immerse themselves in the timeless melodies of traditional songs, engaging in rituals that transcend generations. 

On this sacred occasion, the river becomes a sanctifying space as young girls take a symbolic dip, purifying their spirits. The idols of Sama and Chakeva, witnesses to the festival's entirety, are tenderly immersed in the flowing waters, marking the conclusion of this deeply cherished celebration.
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#askmeaboutnepal #samachakehwa #tharu #mithila #hindufestival #claysculpt #claydolls #folklore #folktales #instragrammable #siblinglove #nepalnow #photooftheday #celebration #tharuculture #mithilaculture #naturallynepal
Sikhs of Nepalgunj take on streets performing vari Sikhs of Nepalgunj take on streets performing various dances and activities, an expression of their cultural heritage on the occasion of the Guru Nanak Jayanti. Nepalgunj

Photos by RGB NIHAL RGB Camerography 

In addition to the dance, other cultural activities such as kirtan (devotional singing), recitation of hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib (the holy scripture of Sikhism), and langar (community meal) are also integral parts of the Guru Nanak Jayanti celebration in Nepalgunj. These activities not only strengthen the bonds within the Sikh community but also promote unity and understanding among people of different faiths in the region.

The celebration of Guru Nanak Jayanti in Nepalgunj is a testament to the diversity and richness of Sikh culture, and the dance performances play a vital role in preserving and showcasing this cultural heritage. Through these vibrant and expressive dances, the Sikhs in Nepalgunj convey not only their devotion to Guru Nanak Dev Ji but also their commitment to fostering a sense of community, joy, and cultural pride.

Read more on: https://askmeaboutnepal.com/guru-nanak-jayanti/
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#askmeaboutnepal #gurunanak #SikhCommunity #sikhdance #nepalnow #learnabundantly #learnaboutnepal #aboutnepal #nepalnow #nepalifeed #happeningtoday #naturallynepal #sikhhistory
Sikhs of Nepalgunj dressed in vibrant and traditio Sikhs of Nepalgunj dressed in vibrant and traditional attire, come together to perform dances as a form of devotion and expression of their cultural heritage on the occasion of the Guru Nanak Jayanti.

Photos by RGB NIHAL RGB Camerography 

Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab, is a sacred and joyous occasion celebrated by Sikhs around the world to commemorate the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. The celebration is marked by various religious and cultural events, including prayers, processions, and cultural performances. In Nepalgunj, a city in Nepal with a significant Sikh population, the celebration of Guru Nanak Jayanti is a vibrant and culturally rich affair.

The Sikh dance during Guru Nanak Jayanti is often characterized by energetic and rhythmic movements, reflecting the joy and reverence felt by the community. The dance is not just a physical expression but also a spiritual one, as it is performed with a deep sense of devotion and gratitude towards Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The beats of traditional Sikh music, including the sounds of the dhol (drum) and other traditional instruments, add to the festive atmosphere.

These dances often take place in gurdwaras (Sikh temples) and spill out into the streets during processions. The streets of Nepalgunj come alive with the colorful attire of the dancers, the sound of music, and the rhythmic movements that captivate onlookers. The dance is a way for the Sikh community to share their joy and celebrate the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji with the larger community.
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#askmeaboutnepal #gurunanak #SikhCommunity #sikhdance #nepalnow #learnabundantly #learnaboutnepal #aboutnepal #nepalnow #nepalifeed #happeningtoday #naturallynepal #sikhhistory
Shey Phoksundo Lake, at an elevation of 3,611 mete Shey Phoksundo Lake, at an elevation of 3,611 meters (11,849 feet), casts its spell in the remote reaches of the Dolpa district. Cradled by snow-capped peaks, it's a haven where tranquility dances on the ripples of crystal-clear waters. by @pratiigyaa 

The heart-shaped lake nestles within the Shey Phoksundo National Park. A pristine alpine lake renowned for its captivating beauty and tranquil aura located in the remote Dolpa region of Nepal is the deepest lake in the country, plunging to a depth of about 145 meters (475 feet). The lake's turquoise waters contrast with the rugged terrain, creating a visual symphony that beckons adventurers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

The Dolpa region is home to the Dolpo people, who have preserved their unique culture and traditions for centuries. Trekkers have the opportunity to engage with these communities, visit ancient monasteries like Shey Gompa, and witness the nomadic lifestyle of the locals. Embarking on a trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake is not just a physical journey but a spiritual and cultural odyssey, where every step tells a story etched in the folds of the majestic Himalayas. 
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#askmeaboutnepal #SheyPhoksundoTrek #SheyPhoksundolake #SheyPhoksundo #phoksundo #AdventureAwaits #NepalExploration #dolpo #trekkininnepal #lakesofnepal #landscapephotography #phonephotography #ilovenature
Stone Statue of Buddha at Kumbheshwar Dhungedhara Stone Statue of Buddha at Kumbheshwar Dhungedhara (stone spout) in Lalitpur.

In Lumbini's sacred grove, after giving birth to Prince Siddhartha Gautam, Queen Maya Devi passed away. Following Siddhartha Gautam's attainment of enlightenment and his emergence as Lord Buddha, he intended to teach the path of righteousness for the welfare and happiness of the multitude. However, the opportunity to impart the teachings of dharma to Queen Maya Devi did not arise.

In this context, Buddha, on one occasion, went to the Tushita heaven and, by manifesting himself, bestowed the teachings of dharma upon Queen Maya Devi in the city of Sankasya. This event is depicted in this sculpture, where Buddha's statue is shown with a raised umbrella, symbolizing the presentation of those teachings.

This sculpture belongs to the early medieval period and is a unique representation not found elsewhere in Nepal. Therefore, it stands as an invaluable cultural heritage of Nepal, emphasizing the importance of its recognition and preservation.

Text and Photo by Dr. Jagaman Gurung,
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#askmeaboutnepal #stonestaue #buddhaquotes  #buddha  #stonework #oldstatues  #stoneage #lichhavi  #buddhisminnepal #buddhismquotes #buddhateachings  #stoneart #stonearchitecture #stoneartlover #sculpture #historyofnepal  #reportagephotography #photooftheday #picoftheday #naturallynepal #visitnepal #reportagespotlight #worldphotopress #learnoninstagram #learnaboutnepal  #photoscapeofthemonth #canonshooter
It is the auspicious occasion of Kartik Shukla Pak It is the auspicious occasion of Kartik Shukla Paksha Hari Bodhini Ekadashi, today, also known as Thulo Ekadashi. May the blessings of Lord Budhanilkantha Narayan make your days prosperous!

Photo by Pritam Thapa, Priti Thapa

Hari Bodhini Ekadashi is considered the most significant and prominent among the twenty-four Ekadashis observed throughout the year. It is referred to as Thulo Ekadashi due to its importance. In Hinduism, Ekadashi is observed as a day for worshiping Lord Vishnu. According to the legends, Lord Vishnu is said to have awakened from his cosmic slumber in the Ksheer Sagar (ocean of milk) on the day of Ashadha Shukla Ekadashi. Hence, this day is also known as Hari Bodhini Ekadashi.

It is believed that observing a fast and engaging in prayers on this day brings immense spiritual merit and blessings.
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#askmeaboutnepal #thuliekadashi #haribodhiniekadashi #ekadashitithi #culture #hinduculture #hindutradition #hinduismnepal #budhanilkantha #narayan #vishnu #stoneart #stoneartlover #stonearchitecture #learnaboutnepal #hindugod #hindudeity
The protestants mobilized by Durga Prasai and Mahe The protestants mobilized by Durga Prasai and Mahesh Basnet parade to participate in the massive demonstration scheduled today 7 Mangshir 2080 (November 23 2023)

Video @iamsoosaanshrestha
The Asiatic wild dog (Cuon alpinus), also known as The Asiatic wild dog (Cuon alpinus), also known as the dhole or Indian wild dog are pursuit pack hunters that run down their prey, including domestic livestock, over long distances. 
Photo by Siddarth Machado via Flickr (CC BY-NC 2.0).

The dhole, the only surviving member of its genus, once roamed large swaths of Asia, from Afghanistan in the west to Laos in the east, and Russia in the north to India in the south. Today, it’s limited to fragmented habitats in Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar and Thailand. Its presence remains uncertain in Pakistan and the Korean Peninsula.

There are many unknowns about the animal, according to an assessment by the IUCN, the global wildlife conservation authority. The global population is estimated at no more than about 2,200 mature animals, and maybe as low as about 950, with a declining trend. In Nepal, there are an estimated 250-750 dholes, mature and otherwise.

Dholes unlike tigers and leopards, Nepal’s better-known predators, are pursuit pack hunters that run down their prey, including domestic livestock, over long distances.

Read the new post by Abhaya Raj Joshi:
https://askmeaboutnepal.com/on-nepals-day-to-honor-dogs-wild-canines-face-mounting-threats/
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#askmeaboutnepal #dhole #asiaticwilddogs #indianwilddog #predator #wildanimallife #wildlifeofnepal #doglife #wilddogwednesday #picoftheday #photofotheday #tbt #asianphotography #nepalnow
Om Gam Ganapataye Namah: Sorah Hattey Ganesh, Lor Om Gam Ganapataye Namah:

Sorah Hattey Ganesh, Lord Ganesh with sixteen hands is housed in a one-storey Gambuj (dome-style) temple at Bhotahity, the main market area in the heart of ​​Kathmandu. This elephant-headed god’s temple was established by the Malla king Pratap Malla, carved as one of it’s finest during his regime. After the King built Bishnu Tirtha, which is now called Rani Pokhari (The Queen’s Pond), he divined the Bishnu Tirtha by Tantric powers to install four deities on the four corners of the pond. The western corner is Ganesh Pond.

This idol of Ganesh with sixteen hands is rare in Nepal depicts him in a Tantric form. He is seen with his wife Riddhi on his left hence he is also called Riddhi Ganesh. According to some religious text, Ganesh is Bhramachari or unmarried and according to others He is married to Riddhi (Prosperity) and Siddi (Spiritual Power), His two powers.

They are alternatively also known as Karnakeshari and Suvarna Keshari, and have been worshiped separately by Newars, Kathamandu natives. These names are almost lost from the vernacular, but still used in Harisiddhi dance, the first mask dance of the country to venerate the Goddess Durga. She is Tri-Shakti, the embodiment of the feminine force, the divine mother, the energy that gives us all life.  It is said that Pratap Malla lost his life while witnessing the Harisiddhi dance in 1731 B.S.
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"Wasya Dya", The God of Tooth Pain at Bangemuda, K "Wasya Dya", The God of Tooth Pain at Bangemuda, Kathmandu, Nepal.

Photo1 by Gerd Eichmann

In Bangemuda, Kathmandu stands an unusual wooden deity known as the "Teeth God". It is a local belief that affixing a coin to this divine idol can bring relief from toothaches. This practice has given the area its name, Kilagal. Over time, the wooden idol has become obscured by a substantial layer of coins, making it challenging to discern its original surface. 

Despite the pervasive influence of technology in our lives today, the age-old tradition of nailing coins to seek solace from toothaches persists, drawing hundreds of devotees who ardently worship the Teeth God as a testament to the rich amalgamation of Nepali art and culture.
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#askmeaboutnepal #kilagal #toothache #dental #learnaboutnepal #reportagephotography #photostory #photooftheday #picoftheday #naturallynepal #visitnepal #reportagespotlight #worldphotopress #learnoninstagram  #AsianPhotographyMagazine #AsianPhotography #photoscapeofthemonth #lightroom #canon90d #canonphotography #thingstoseeinnepal #cultureshock
"Chhat Puja" is a significant Hindu festival that "Chhat Puja" is a significant Hindu festival that used to be celebrated in Southern Nepal but now almost all over the country except the high Himalayas.

Chhath Puja is dedicated to the worship of the Sun God and Chhati Mai. The festival usually falls six days after Tihar, during the month of Kartika (Oct/Nov), but this year in Mangshir (Nov/Dec), and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion.

During Chhath Puja, devotees, especially women, observe a rigorous fast and perform various rituals near a water body, such as a river or a pond. The rituals include taking a holy dip, offering prayers to the rising and setting sun, and preparing special offerings like Thekua and Rasiao (a type of sweet). 

Photos from Social Media.

Read more at https://askmeaboutnepal.com/chhath/
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#askmeaboutnepal #chhatparba #chatparba #chattimai #chhatimaiya #mithila #terai #festivalofterai #chhat #southernnepal #festivalofnepal #traditionofnepal #sungod #universe #sun
The Last Natural Haven: Taudaha hosts diverse lotu The Last Natural Haven: Taudaha hosts diverse lotus flowers and water chestnut varieties, nurturing a complex ecosystem teeming with amphibians, reptiles, birds, and fish.

Taudaha, once an emerald oasis nestled amid lush fields in the southwest corner of the Kathmandu Valley, holds immense religious, cultural, and ecological importance. Spanning 463 hectares, it was the largest pond in the Bagmati watershed, home to diverse lotus flowers, water chestnuts, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and fish, including migratory species.

Over the years (examining data from 2014-2020), Taudaha has welcomed an average of 307 to 423 migratory birds annually. While the overall number has remained relatively stable, a worrying trend has emerged in the decreasing variety of species. Species like the Common Teal, the Great Cormorant, and the Mallard have seen a decline in their numbers over time.
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#savethewetlands #anyhowindrabachau 
#askmeaboutnepal #Taudaha #winterbird #studybirds #bridsstudy #cormorant #migratorybirds #reportagephotography #photooftheday #picoftheday #naturallynepal #visitnepal #reportagespotlight #worldphotopress #learnoninstagram #learnaboutnepal  #AsianPhotographyMagazine #AsianPhotography #photoscapeofthemonth #lightroom #canon90d #canonphotography #thingstoseeinnepal
White Water Rafting in Bhote Koshi River. Known a White Water Rafting in Bhote Koshi River.

Known as one of the best white-water rafting destinations in the world, the Bhote Koshi River originates from the Tibetan plateau, cascading down through narrow gorges and rocky terrains, providing an ideal playground for rafting enthusiasts.

Rafting in the Bhote Koshi River offers an exhilarating and adrenaline-pumping adventure amidst the stunning landscapes of Nepal and is not for the faint-hearted. The river offers challenging rapids ranging from Grade III to V, making it a thrilling experience for both beginners and seasoned rafters taking you through powerful waves, steep drops, and intense rapids, offering an adrenaline rush at every turn. The river's fast-paced flow demands teamwork, precise paddling, and quick decision-making, creating an unforgettable and exciting rafting experience. 

There are numerous rafting operators in the region that offer guided trips along the Bhote Koshi River, ensuring safety measures and expert guidance for an enjoyable experience. 
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#askmeaboutnepal #rafting #whitewaterrafting #raftinginnepal #bhotekoshi #reportagephotography #photooftheday #picoftheday #naturallynepal #visitnepal #reportagespotlight #worldphotopress #learnoninstagram #learnaboutnepal  #AsianPhotographyMagazine #AsianPhotography #photoscapeofthemonth #lightroom #canon90d #canonphotography #thingstoseeinnepal
Every 🐕 its day and today is definitely that d Every 🐕  its day and today is definitely that day for all canines of Nepal. #kukurtihar

#askmeaboutnepal #tihar #tiharspecial❤️
देश परदेश मा बस्नुहुने शम्पुर्ण जनमा तिहारकाे पावन अवसरमा मङ्गलमय शुभकामना !! जय नेपाल 🇳🇵
Two sisters selling Amriso Brooms, a must-have ite Two sisters selling Amriso Brooms, a must-have item at any Nepali house. Khandbari Haatbazaar, Sankhuwasabha

In addition to jewelry and utensils, people also purchase brooms on Dhanteras, a day believed to bring luck. Dhanteras falls on the first day of Tihar, the festival of lights that occurs within a fortnight of Dashain, however it falls one day prior to it this year.

Acquiring a broom is thought to retain Goddess Lakshmi (the main goddess of Tihar)  in one's home, ensuring prosperity and happiness while eliminating debts. Brooms are essential for maintaining cleanliness in households, and their use is believed to attract the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi. Thus, buying brooms on Dhanteras is considered auspicious, enhancing the significance of this important Hindu festival that marks the beginning of Diwali celebrations.
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#askmeaboutnepal #Dhanteras #tihar #deepawali #diwali #FestivalOfLights #reportagephotography #photooftheday #picoftheday #naturallynepal #visitnepal #reportagespotlight #worldphotopress #learnonfacebook #learnaboutnepal
A Pair of Griffins Guard the two of the four Templ A Pair of Griffins Guard the two of the four Temple doors of Changu Narayan, Bhaktapur

The first two photos have Griffins, (legendary creature) with the body of Garuda, a mythical bird that is a stride of Lord Vishnu, and the last two with the body of a lion and the head of wings of an eagle.

Changu Narayan Temple is a pagoda-style Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu in his incarnation as Narayan. It was originally built around the 4C, but the present temple was rebuilt in 1702 after it was destroyed by fire. It is situated on a ridge at 1541m overlooking the Kathmandu Valley, about 22 km to the east of Kathmandu and 6 km north of Bhaktapur. Though the temple is quite beautiful, especially the doors and front facade, Changu Narayan is not known for its temple but for the stone statues, bas-relief carvings, and inscriptions that are scattered around the temple courtyard, created between the 5th and 13th centuries.
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#askmeaboutnepal #Changunarayan #stoneinscription #stonewriting #stoneage #lichhavi #hindudeity #stoneart #stonearchitecture #stoneartlover #sculpture #historyofnepal #reportagephotography #photooftheday #picoftheday #naturallynepal #visitnepal #reportagespotlight #worldphotopress #learnoninstagram #learnaboutnepal #photoscapeofthemonth #nikon #nikonphotography
Paani Ghatta, the only water mill in Gati Village Paani Ghatta, the only water mill in Gati Village nestles inside this bamboo hut with a tin-sheet roof. It is run by a father-son duo belonging to the Newar community. Sindhupalchok.

In Gati like many other villages of Nepal, the Paani Ghatta serves as a vital water mill particularly to grind corn. This ingenious mechanism operates by channeling water from a river nearby through a robust pipe, which in turn impels the blades of a rotating wheel (turbine). Positioned directly above the turbine is a grinding stone that crushes the corn kernels steadily funneled from a sizable drum suspended from the ceiling of a windmill hut.

A wooden bird, affixed to the lower opening of the drum, tactfully guides the grains into the grinder, ensuring a steady and efficient milling process. This age-old technology attests to the village's resourcefulness and uses traditional methods to harness the power of water to meet the essential needs of the community, especially during the monsoon harvest.
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#askmeaboutnepal #corn #cornfield #newar #watermill #panighatta #paanighatta #villagelife #agriculturelife #ilovevillage #scienceisfun #reportagephotography #photooftheday #picoftheday #naturallynepal #visitnepal #reportagespotlight #worldphotopress #learnoninstagram #learnaboutnepal #AsianPhotographyMagazine #AsianPhotography #photoscapeofthemonth #lightroom #canon90d #canonphotography #thingstoseeinnepal
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