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An Inner Tranquility

Nepal Holds a Peace Unforeseen by those Who have Yet to Travel its Landscape

By Anslem Samuel

(page 1 of 4)

A temple in Katmandu, Nepal (Darbur Square, Old Palace)A temple in Katmandu, Nepal (Darbur Square, Old Palace)Nestled between china and india, Nepal is one of the world’s poorest and least developed countries with almost one-third of its people living below the poverty line. But what the South Asian country lacks in economic power, it makes up for in a wealth of natural beauty. From the pristine landscapes of the Dolakha district to the Great Himalaya Mountain Range that runs alongside its northern border, this landlocked oasis is rich in culture and historical significance. Home to eight of the world’s 10 highest peaks—including the record-breaking Mount Everest—Nepal is a favorite destination for hiking enthusiasts and seekers of breathtaking views.

The sheer beauty of the land is further accented by the ancient architecture. The crooked city streets are lined with multi-roofed pagodas, gold-topped stupas (mound-like structures common throughout parts of Asia) and arcane stone sculptures, while stunning Hindu and Buddhist temples reflect the heavy religious influences from nearby India and Tibet.

New Haven, CT native Millette Núñez spent three weeks backpacking through Nepal and was taken aback by the many intricate shrines and religious freedoms the country had to offer. “The temples are absolutely astonishing,” says Núñez. “You’re talking about things that are so old but also so beautiful. The architecture there is so different than what we’re accustomed to here in the West. It’s just aesthetically pleasing…and religion and spirituality were really a way of life there. It was really cool seeing Buddhist and Hindu people praying next to each other and it not be a big deal.”

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