How does Nepal’s culture compare to that of other countries? The country is known for its rich history, various magnificent landmarks, and some of the world’s most welcoming and friendliest people.
However, if you ever visit Nepal, you will find lots of things that will shock you, just as you would in any other country. Here is some interesting information about the culture in Nepal that you’ll certainly find unexpected once you visit this mountain great nation to give you an idea of what we mean.
TABLE OF CONTENT
- Unique customs and tradition
- Art and Craft of Nepal
- Architectures
- Foods
- Religions
- Language and Literature
- Ethnicity
- Why is Nepal rich in culture and tradition?
- Why do Nepalese people respect their culture?
- Reason to visit Nepal with a snowy dream world Trek, why?
Unique Custom and Tradition:
Nepalese society is patriarchal. Nepalese possess their own traditions and customs, each with its own importance. They also execute animal sacrifices as part of their religious rituals.
Though trekking in Nepal is a major attraction for tourists, culture and traditional attractions are also strong attraction factors
Old people’s birthdays are celebrated when they hit certain ages – 77, 1000 months, 88, 99, and 110 years. Janku is the name of this one. Sky burial is an unusual method of bidding farewell to the dead done by some communities, particularly those in the highlands. The dead are allowed to be eaten by vultures and crows rather than being cremated or buried. So, in Nepal, this is the culture of Nepal.
Art and craft of Nepal :
Many works of art and crafts can be spotted in monasteries. Its walls are likely to be covered with creative visual paintings. These paintings, known as Thangka or Paubha, show Hindu and Buddhist deities.
Traditional Nepalese crafts contain metal sculptures, ethnic clothing, traditional silver jewelry, wood carving, religious and ritual objects such as bells, vajra, stone sculpture, metal utensils, paubha painting, pottery, and Vajra crafts.
Pashmina and yak wool outfits are glaring examples of textiles. Nepali artisans and craftsmen have attracted the respect and admiration of people all over the world for their work. So, this is the handicraft of Nepal that you observe when you visit. Making handicrafts is also a Culture of Nepal.
Architecture :
The prestige of Nepalese architecture has become an essential part of the country’s cultural legacy.
The ancient architecture of Nepal, like the art of painting and sculpture, is recognized to be outstanding even from a scientific viewpoint.
The Pagoda style, the Stupa style, and the Shikhara style are the three types of architecture found in Nepal.
Pagoda Style :
With multi-roofed structures and wide eaves supported by beautifully carved wooden struts, the pagoda is a major element in Nepalese temples. Triangular spires generally crown the roof, holding an inverted bell, and projecting windows are either latticed or grilled.
During the Malla period, many Pagoda-style temples, palaces, and architecture were constructed. Pagoda Style in Nepal is highlighted by Bhaktapur’s Dattatraya and Nyatapole, Kathmandu’s Kasthamandap, and others. Araniko and his Nepalese colleagues are claimed to have taken the pagoda style of Nepalese architecture to China.
The Kasthamandap wooden pagoda for which Kathmandu is named is one of the most impressive examples of the pagoda style, built during the Malla period.
The Shikhar Style:
Shikhara, a large curvilinear or pyramidal tower, is a key element of Nepalese Hindu temple architecture. It symbolizes a “mountain peak” in Sanskrit, and it usually seems to have an ornate façade. Shikhar architecture is also a beautiful example of traditional architecture.
The exterior portion of such constructions has five to nine perpendicular divisions or sections. At the top of each portion is Gajurs. They are wider at the bottom and thinner towards the top.
Patan’s Krishna Temple, erected in 1637 by Siddhi Narsimha Malla, is the most impressive example of Nepalese Shikhara architecture in the Kathmandu Valley. It was patterned after a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna in Mathura, India, and contains intricate stone engravings of gods and goddesses.
The Stupa/chaitya style :
The Stupa or Chaitya Style is a type of architecture with a massive base and gradually sloping upwards. This architecture is thought to have been introduced to Nepal through Emperor Ashok. Lumbini’s Maya Devi temple is an outstanding example.
Stupas are characterized by a hemispheric mound on a square base that supports a pattern of thirteen circular rings. These narrow as they approach the top and are capped by a parasol.
The square base, known as the harmonica, is painted with pairs of mystic “all-seeing eyes” on all four sides. The stupas in Patan, which are believed to have been erected by King Ashoka, are the oldest stupas in Nepal.
Newa architecture:
The Kathmandu Valley is also based on the unique Newari style of Nepal architecture, which has long been employed by the Newari people to construct everything from domestic buildings to chaitya monastery structures. It is distinguished by its impressive brickwork and wooden carvings, and the architect Arniko was instrumental in its export throughout Asia.
Multiple buildings with pitched roofs and a small courtyard or chowk were common in traditional Newari households. Narrow windows with beautiful wooden latticework and entrance doors barred with broad wooden planks were common.
FOODS:
Vegetables, lentils, dals, and spices are used in a wide range of dishes in Nepali cuisine. Nepal’s diversity is most likely owing to its diversified geography. In Nepal, the most popular foods are momo (steamed dumplings), Tarkari (curried veggies), chow mein (fried noodles), sekuwa (barbequed beef), and so on. The majority of Nepalese cuisine is served with rice.
While we cannot count the number of cuisine types produced by Nepal’s several states, we do offer to the table some of Nepal’s most interesting cuisines which are given below:
Dal Bhat Tarkari :
Dal Bhat is also known as Dal Bhat tarkari since it is traditionally served with vegetable tarkari (a blend of seasonal vegetables). They also have yogurt or a chicken, goat meat, or fish curry, as well as a little quantity of chutney or pickle (achar).
In addition to lentils or beans, the Dal is made with tomatoes, onion, chile, garlic, and ginger. Coriander, garam masala, cumin seeds, and turmeric are among the herbs and spices added. Dal Bhat recipes differ based on the region and family.
Dhido:
Dhido is a sugar-free dish composed of wheat or maize. This nutrient-dense dish is accompanied by Gundruk soup, which is composed of dried Gundruk and fermented green leafy vegetables. The Nepalis add beans and potatoes to this soup, which customers prefer as a soup. It has a tart flavor and works well with Dheedo as a side dish. The meal is also regarded as Nepal’s traditional food.
Mo:Mo :
The typical momo in Nepal is made with ground meat filling, however, this has altered in recent years and has gotten more sophisticated. The momo is related to the Gyozo in Japan and is thought to have originated in Tibet. Momo is a steamed bun with steaming vegetables and meat within.
The snack comes with a variety of dips. Tomato sauce and fermented veggies are used more frequently. Momos are now loaded with cheese and even mashed potato, thanks to innovative improvisations on the meal. Steamed, fried, or boiled dumplings are all alternatives.
Yomari:
Yomari is another amazing Newari cuisine that enters our list. Yomari is a rice flour and chaaku-based traditional dish. Preparing this one-of-a-kind but delicious dish demands a complex process.
It’s a dumpling that’s been cooked in syrup. To allow the dough to ferment, a large, uncut dough ball is left to sit overnight. A deep pot of oil is heated over an open fire until it smokes on cooking day. Dumplings that have already been dunked in oil are then dropped into the saucepan by hand.
Some Westerners may associate the resulting meal with funnel cake, while others may be enchanted by its sweetness and delicacy. Yomari is one of those foods that all should know about—and attempting they’re in Kathmandu. Hope you’re gonna try it.
Chatamari :
Chatamari seems to be another Newari item to be added to the list. Rice flour is used to make chatamari. Rice flour can be used to make a thick batter. Various ingredients are added to garnish on top, giving it an unusual touch and flavor.
At restaurants, If they serve chatamari, it is expressly noted on the menu. Although the chatamari looks like pizza, it does not taste like pizza. Chatamari is a must-try delicacy since it has a local Nepali flavor.
Juju Dhau:
Juju dhau, Nepal’s most delectable yogurt, will introduce you to Newari culture. Juju Dhau, the king of yogurt, is a must-have for practically every occasion. Juju dhau is found in abundance in Bhaktapur.
It has a creamy mouthfeel from buffalo milk. Juju dhau is made by pressing some sugar into heated milk to give it a rich flavor. The stew is poured into a beautiful clay dish and kept warm until ready to eat.
Juju Dhau should be a must while visiting Bhaktapur. It’s possible that you’ll end up placing further orders. Juju dhau can be eaten as a snack or served as a side dish with dal-bhat.
RELIGION:
Nepal is a country that is multi-ethnic, multicultural, and religious. The Nepalese people and society are deeply religious. One of the most noticeable impressions of Nepal at the moment is that of religion. Nepal’s situation has shifted significantly as a result of significant changes in the practice of religion.
Continue reading to learn more about the multiple religions that exist in Nepal presently, their history, beliefs, and activities.
Religion of culture in Nepal:
- Hinduism
- Buddhism
- Muslim
- Kirant
- Christians
Hinduism:
Population Composition: 81.34%
Major Deities: Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva
Scriptures: Vedas, Vedangas, Puranas, Itihasas
According to legend, a sage named Ne Muni, who lived in the Himalayas and taught his ideas, was the one who first introduced the religion to Nepal in primordial times. He also chose Bhuktaman as Nepal’s first king, laying the groundwork for the Gopala Dynasty.
Hinduism is the most often used religion, with Hindus accounted for roughly 81 percent of the population. The various Hindu temples sprinkled around the country attest to this. In Nepal, many Hindu temples are built in the honor of gods and deities and provide a place of prayer and ritual for followers. Not only do they build temples, but Festivals like Dashain, Tihar, Gai Jatra, and Holi are also celebrated throughout the nation with great enthusiasm and interest. So, this is the culture and society in Nepal that are found.
Buddhism :
Population Composition: 9%
Major Deities: Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, Yidam
Scriptures: Buddhavacana, Tripitaka, Mahayana sutras
Buddhism is the second culture in Nepal. The Buddhist religion has its roots in the country, with Lord Buddha’s birthplace of Lumbini in Nepal. His Shakya clan became essential in the early introduction of Buddhism in the Kathmandu valley.
This religion has made a name for itself as a diversified faith. The believers’ beliefs are diverse. Hinayana and Mahayana are their two roots. The Hinayana emphasizes Buddha’s teachings, whereas the Mahayana emphasizes adoring deities and obtaining enlightenment by copying their examples.
However, Many religious sites like Muktinath and Swayambhunath are places to visit in Nepal.
Muslim:
Population Composition: 4.4%
Major Deities: Allah
Scriptures: Quran, Tafsir, Sunnah
Islam is the most practiced faith constituting around 4.4% of the Muslim population in Nepal . Islam exists in small numbers but is quite devoted to their religion. The Islamic religion was brought to Nepal during the 17th century by the north Indians.
Muslims are devout to their god and can be seen as an example of devotion and dedication.
Kriant:
Population Composition: 3%
Major Deities: Shiva, Tegra Ningwa Puma
Scriptures: Kirat Mundhum
According to legend, Kiratism is an ancient religion that began in Nepal. Kiratism, also known as Kirat Mundhum, mixes Tibetan Buddhism, Shaivism, and animism beliefs in the worship of ancestors, nature, the sun, moon, wind, fire, the main pillar of their dwellings, and gods such as Sumnima-Paruhang and Tegra Ningwaphumang.
They celebrate festivals such as Udhauli and Ubhauli, which mark the beginning of the winter and summer seasons, respectively, and the migration of birds and animals to the warmer south or chilly north. As a result, this is also a Nepalese culture.
Christians:
Population Composition: 1.4%
Major Deities: God
Scriptures: Old Testament, New Testament, Hebrew Bible
In Nepal, 1.4% of the population practiced culture in Nepal. Most of them being evangelical Protestants and very few Catholics. For a long time, Christians were officially prohibited in Nepal until 1951. They first arrived in Nepal in 1951, and the first church in the country, the Ram Ghat church in Pokhara, was built in 1952. According to the report, Christians are the fastest-growing culture and society in Nepal.
LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE :
In the past, more than 90 languages were spoken in Nepal alone. However, some people have died recently, and others are on the verge of dying. This is also a culture in Nepal where people practiced.
Nepali is a language that dates back to the Vedic period. Many more words have been borrowed from the Vedas and the Sanskrit language. The Nepali language evolved from the Karnali region’s Khas Kura, or language, according to history.
The Khas language is evidenced through stone inscriptions and copper inscriptions found in the Karnali region. From medieval times, the huge territory of Sen state aided in the expansion of the Nepali language from east to west. Shatananda’s book “Bhaswati” (1457 B.S.) is the first-ever written book in the Nepali language.
Ethnicity:
The ethnicity is based on the country’s diverse topography. Nepal’s ethnic groups are categorized into three categories: indigenous Nepalese, Indo-Nepalese, and Tibeto-Nepalese. The Tibeto-Nepalese people are claimed to have moved from Tibet and settled in Nepal’s mountainous areas.
They have a mongoloid appearance and a culture that is akin to Tibetan society. They are supposed to dress in Bakkhu and Doha, which are heavy winter garments. The indigenous Nepalese are individuals who lived in Nepal before the other ethnic groups arrived. Their culture is largely steeped in Nepalese traditions. They are typically found in the country’s hilly regions. Nepal’s indigenous people account for 35.81 percent of the country’s overall population.
Conclusion:
Nepalese culture is fascinating and diverse. It is unquestionably something that should not be overlooked. The culture of Nepal must be experienced first-hand at least once in a lifetime due to its rich ethnicity and geography!
Why is Nepal rich in culture and tradition?
The culture of Nepal is derived from the way of life in this country. Nepalese culture is unique, and it’s something to take in and enjoy. Nepalese culture has been passed down from generation to generation. It is a precious treasure that the Nepalese showcase with a feeling of immense pride. It is quite old, but one of the most intriguing ones that you will find!. Nepal is rich in culture and tradition for a variety of reasons. The reason behind this is:
- Culture and Tradition
- Ethnicity
- Religion
- Festival
- Art Craft and Architecture
Why do Nepalese people respect their culture?
Nepalese citizens are extremely humble and welcoming. They are aware of the importance of respecting other cultures as well as their own. Nepalese people believe that they must preserve their culture and traditions since they are as essential as their prestige. They are aware of their culture and traditions, which were established by their ancestors. They display love, affection, and respect for their culture. If you want to know more and go deeply about Nepal. You can visit Nepal.
Prefer to visit Nepal with a snowy dream world trek, why?
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