Care for a Nepalese Salad?

Sounds weird right? But there are so many different aspects that go into the diverse Nepalese culture!

I'll start by talking about all the different types of people i encoutered on my journey. This nation is a very densely populated nation; there are around 30 million people in a land area that is slightly larger than the state of Arkansas. The best part however is that no two cultural groups are the same! There is a wide variety of races and tribes, costumes and languages, and the main religions are Hinduism and Buddhism. In addition the terrain ranges from nearly sea level to an altitude of 4800 meters high! This means that as altitudes change, so do the different lifestyles and social customs.While these people seem very different on the outside, they are all unified in the their values of religious tolerance and loyalty to the Monarchy and their rich cultural festivals.

When it comes to architecture, there are 3 different styles in Nepal.

                     

Pagoda Style

Stupa style 

Shikhara Style



Last but not least, the Nepalese cuisine is exquisite! It is usually made up of bhat (boiled rice or grains) accompanied with roti (unleavened bread) and an assortment of vegetables, meat and fish. Customary Etiquette says that you should only eat with your right hand and use your left only for picking up a glass since the left hand is usually used for toiletry purposes. Also, meals are often eaten while sitting on the floor, unless you are in a city restaurant. I thought this was a refreshing change to our American customs, but it did take a toll on my back!

All in all, the Nepales culture is a wonder to be experienced and treasured!

http://www.thamel.com/htms/religions_culture.htm