Heritage Hunt

It is very impressive to note that UNESCO has designated 10 heritage sites in Nepal – 8 of them as cultural sites and another two as natural. It is no wonder that Katmandu valley alone boasts seven cultural sites considering the fact that it had been a breeding ground for rich cultural heritage for ages which peaked during the Lichchavi era and then in the Malla era (13th – 18th century) following the division of the valley three kingdoms; Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan; which started a unique artistic warfare between the three heirs of Yaksha Malla, who built magnificent temples and palaces to out do each other. Situated in the southern plains is Chitwan National Park which spread in 932 sq kms of subtropical forests, grasslands, ox-bow lakes and flood plains. Kicked off in 1974 as the protected forest, the park was added to the list 1984. Further west of Chitwan lies the birth place of Lord Gautama Buddha “the light of the world”, that was added to UNESCO list in 1997. Here commemorative pillar of Emperor Ashoka, Maya Devi Temple and other archaeological remains associated with the birth of Buddha are the central attraction for the millions of Buddhists from all over the world. Back