
Kathmandu, Nepal
According to abbreviationfinder, Kathmandu is the capital and largest city of Nepal. It was founded in the 8th century. by King Guna Kama Deva. It is located in the center of the country, on the fertile valley of the same name, right at the confluence of the Bagmati and Vishnumati rivers. More than 1,400,000 people live in Kathmandu, mainly of Indian origin and whose majority religion is Hinduism.
The 25 of April of 2015 occurs the devastating earthquake of magnitude 7.8 on the Richter scale. The earthquake was registered at 06:11 GMT, and its epicenter was located in the Lamjung district 81 kilometers northwest of the capital, Kathmandu, and at a depth of 15 kilometers. The death toll exceeded 8,700 and the total injured 20,000, not including the total missing, which amounted to 273 people, including 80 foreigners. Most of the deceased were concentrated in the districts of Sindhupalchowk, north of the Nepalese capital, and in the administrative district of Kathmandu, while other people died in Nuwakot [1] [2] [3] . The Nepal’s National Emergency Operations Center indicated that the earthquake totally destroyed 10,744 buildings and caused partial damage to 14,741. The number of irrecoverable houses exceeded 191,000, while another 175,000 suffered serious damage [4] . The government estimated that some $ 2 billion would be required for reconstruction. The earthquake caused widespread destruction throughout the country and extensive material damage. A significant part of the most emblematic and historical buildings of the so-called Kathmandu Valley, declared a World Heritage Site, were reduced to rubble.
Geography
Nepal is the country of the Himalayas, the mountain range where Mount Everest is located, the highest peak on Earth. The deep valleys and alpine lakes are the keynote of a rugged landscape full of beauty. The impressive Himalayan range is Nepal’s greatest natural attraction. In addition, the crystal clear waters of Lake Kathmandu offer the visitor a beautiful picture.
Location
Kathmandu is located in the center of the country, on the fertile valley of the same name, more than 1,300 m above sea level and right at the confluence of the Bagmati and Vishnumati rivers.
Climate
Kathmandu’s climate is a fairly rigid continental climate, with heavy rains in the summer months.
Demography
The population of Nepal suffers from a deep division between peoples of Mongolian origin and those of Indo-Aryan origin, which determines languages, religions and cultures. This division does not mean that the two groups cannot coexist peacefully. In Kathmandu live more than 1,400,000 people, mainly of Indian origin and whose majority religion is Hinduism. See population of Nepal.
Economic development
Kathmandu’s economy is largely powered by agriculture (rice, millet, wheat, potatoes, jute), forestry exports and livestock. An incipient tourist industry is beginning to develop quite successfully in the capital.
Sightseeing
Places of interest
The entire city and its surroundings are dotted with a multitude of temples such as the Kasthamandap, Ashok Vinayak, Akash Bhairab, Bhadrakali or Sankhu ensembles that give it an extremely picturesque appearance. In addition, some places such as the Bodnath Sanctuary, the National Museum of Nepal and the Royal Palace (1576) are of great interest, which allows tourists to access some of its rooms.
Culture
Crafts
You can find typical caps, called topis that Nepalese must wear when visiting an official place, knitted gloves, woolen socks, cotton shirts and Tibetan dresses that are buttoned at the side. Red, black and orange polka dot shawls are typical, as are multi-colored jackets.
Gastronomy
The staple food is rice which is usually accompanied by dhal, lentil soup, vegetables seasoned with curries and meat. Chapatis, fried pancakes are also eaten with meals. The most popular meats are pork, goat, chicken, buffalo and yak, never cow, since this animal is sacred just like in India. Sweets can be bought from street stalls or in grocery stores. To drink, in addition to milk, Nepalese people usually drink tea, with a very strong flavor, so milk or spices are added. Charg, the Tibetan beer, also has a strong flavor.
Holidays and traditions
Nepalese celebrate their National Day on February 18.
Religion
Religion: 90% Hindu, There are also Buddhists, Muslims, among other religions
Transport
To travel to Nepal you need a passport and visa. The passport must have a minimum validity of six months and with the tourist visa you can only access the Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara and its surroundings. The best way to get to the country is by plane as there are flights from the main international airports.
Once in the country, the best way to get to know it and tour its peaks is by plane or helicopter, from where the traveler will enjoy splendid views. The buses are also common, comfortable and affordable, even for short trips are advised to use the taxi.
Illustrious people
The most important character in Kathmandu is Gyanendra, the King of Nepal. He ascended the throne on June 4, 2001.