I embarked on a journey of exploration that took me away from the bustling heart of Kathmandu and towards the captivating town of Lumbini. Along the way, I traversed the scenic landscapes of Dhading, Makwanpur, Bharatpur, and the twin districts of Nawalparasi, East and West, revealing Nepal's diverse and breathtaking beauty. With every turn of the road, I inched closer to my destination—the revered grounds of Kapilvastu. Nestled gently within the embrace of Nepal's cultural heritage, Kapilvastu unveiled stories of ancient grandeur and offered glimpses of serene and wondrous landscapes. This journey was a tantalizing blend of history and untouched beauty, propelling me forward with a sense of eager anticipation.
After a restful night's sleep at a hotel, I eagerly embarked on the next chapter of my journey, setting my sights on the iconic Tilaurakot. This revered site held within its walls a testament to a rich historical legacy that seemed to echo through the ages. As I wandered through the remnants of the ancient Shakyan city of Kapilavastu, a profound sense of connection to history enveloped me. The grandeur of the palace where King Suddhodhan once resided, a pivotal figure in the life of Siddhartha Gautam, the future Buddha, materialized before my eyes, conjuring vivid images of a majestic past. The meticulously preserved fortification walls and the encompassing moat painted a vivid portrait of a bygone era, where life unfolded within the safety of these protective barriers. Delving deeper into the past through archaeological revelations, I could not help but feel a deep sense of humility in the presence of religious monuments that stood as silent witnesses to a time when Tilaurakot thrived as a bustling capital city.
Our journey led us to a beautiful place known as Jadispur Tal, a tranquil and serene lake that sparkled brilliantly in the strong sunlight. Due to the scorching weather, not many people were present, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the calmness and admire the vibrant lotus flowers gracefully blooming atop the water's surface. Despite the intense heat and the sensation of burning ground under my feet, I remained undeterred, captivated by the peaceful scene that I eagerly captured through the lens of my camera. Learning that this very lake provided a safe haven for birds even in such harsh conditions highlighted to me the remarkable strength and adaptability of nature. My photographs encapsulated the lake's tranquility and the thriving ecosystem it housed, serving as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance and inherent beauty of the natural world.
As the sun reached its peak in the sky, my companions and I found ourselves standing before the Santi Stupa, a haven of serenity and contemplation. As I ascended the whitewashed steps, the gentle gaze of four golden Buddha statues met my eyes, each facing a different direction. Stepping inside the stupa, a profound sense of tranquility enveloped me, shortly detaching me from the outside world. When I removed my shoes and my bare feet met the stone floor, it was as if I had walked into a blazing fire. Yet, the soothing ambiance of the stupa brought immediate relief to my scorched feet. This encounter with serene tranquility, coupled with the physical comfort, etched an indelible mark on my spirit, leaving me with a lasting memory of this remarkable experience.
Continuing our exploration, I had the privilege of visiting a multitude of monasteries, each standing as a unique embodiment of cultural diversity and unwavering devotion. Standing before the Mayadevi Temple, my senses came alive as I beheld the vibrant lotus pond, a mesmerizing spectacle where reflections danced gracefully upon the emerald waters. Embarking on a tranquil boat ride, I savored a moment of serene tranquility, giving me the opportunity to fully immerse myself in the surrounding beauty and reflect upon the profound heritage that enveloped me.
At the Mayadevi Temple, I engaged in meditation, allowing myself to immerse myself in a moment of introspection and tranquility. The serene ambiance of the temple enveloped me, creating a space for reflection. As I sat in quiet contemplation, the presence of history seemed to whisper through the walls. Afterward, I dedicated time to closely observe the Ashok Pillars, each bearing inscriptions that echoed ancient stories.
Picture a place where history bursts into life—a charming town named Devdaha nestled in the heart of Nepal. As I explored this town, I uncovered its past as the capital of the mighty Koliya Kingdom, like peering through a window into the captivating culture and enthralling stories of times long gone. Yet a pressing issue becomes apparent: Devdaha's treasured history is slipping through the fingers of time, much like a cherished painting losing its vivid hues. The significance that once radiated from Devdaha is dimming, its extraordinary tales and precious relics languishing in the shadows of neglect. Despite the influx of visitors, the echoes of memories and the profound importance of this place are fading away.
Imagine having a personal sanctuary that ignites deep connections through something truly meaningful. For those who follow the path of Buddhism, Devdaha holds the key to such spiritual connections. A journey tugs at the heartstrings—a pilgrimage to the very grounds where Queen Mayadevi, the nurturing mother of Buddha, once resided. The aura of Devdaha envelopes you, allowing you to feel intimately linked to a core aspect of their faith. However, even if Buddhism is not my chosen path, Devdaha beckons with its unique charm. It is akin to opening a book filled with spellbinding stories from Nepal's past, where every step is a chapter that unfolds before your eyes. As I stood amidst its ancient remnants, I could almost hear the whispers of history, as if the very air carried the tales of Nepal's vibrant and diverse heritage.
As my journey ended and I began my way back to Kathmandu, the return trip was filled with enriching pauses at historical landmarks that seemed to breathe tales of the past. One such stop was at the Makawanpur King's Palace, where the stones bore the marks of time, each etching a story onto their weathered surfaces. Standing amidst the remnants, I could almost hear the echoes of bygone eras, as if the walls themselves were whispering forgotten chronicles.
Our route wound through the charming locale of Tistung Palung, a place where we were treated to the bounty of the land. Here, I had the chance to savor the goodness of freshly harvested vegetables and even pluck pears directly from the trees, the taste a testament to the purity of nature's offerings. Each bite carried a touch of the region's authenticity, a literal taste of the journey that had led me through Nepal's cultural tapestry. These stops punctuated my return journey, weaving a final chapter that mirrored the enriching experiences and discoveries that had unfolded throughout my expedition.
As I finally returned to Kathmandu, my travel diary concluded, brimming with cherished memories of ancient palaces, the tranquil embrace of stupas, and the captivating allure of Nepal's culturally rich heritage. The pages of my diary hold a tale of a journey that transcended time and immersed me in moments of serenity, a voyage that etched in my heart the significance of preserving the past for the generations that will follow.
Reflecting on the journey, I am reminded of the diverse experiences that unfolded with every turn of the page. The stories I have penned down narrate not only the historical encounters and spiritual awakenings but also the connection I formed with Nepal's intricate cultural tapestry. Each entry carries the weight of responsibility—a commitment to safeguarding the treasures of the past for the legacy of the future. As I gently closed the diary, I realized that my role as a traveller extended beyond exploration; it encompassed a duty to ensure that the narrative of our expedition endures, inspiring others to delve into the enchanting chapters of Nepal's vibrant history and cultural heritage.
Text by: Naina Tamang
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