AOTCA International Tax Conference & 22nd AGM

 
 
Nepal: Where Nature, Culture, and Spirit Converge
Explore with AOTCA 2025 🙏

Nov. 18-21, 2025 | The Soaltee Kathmandu

Key wonders of Nepal

Everest & The Himalayas

Lord Buddha & Lumbini

Historical cities

Pashupatinath & Hindu temples

Buddhist Monasteries in Nepal

Thangka Art of Nepal

Mithila Art in Nepal

Rhododendron & Flora in Nepal

Animal wonders of Nepal

Birds of Nepal

Nepal Ethnicities

Living Goddess & Newari culture

Yarshagumba & Medicinal herbs

Mushrooms of Nepal

Nepali Tea and Ilam

Nepali Arabic Coffee

Moringa

Healing Bowls and Natural Therapy

The Majesty of the Himalayas

Dominating Nepal’s northern border are the majestic Himalayas—the world’s youngest and tallest mountain range.
Home to eight of the ten highest peaks on Earth, including the iconic Mount Everest (Sagarmatha), the Himalayas are more than a visual spectacle. They are deeply intertwined with Nepal’s identity, spirituality, and way of life.
For centuries, these snow-capped giants have inspired pilgrims, trekkers, and seekers from across the globe. Their presence infuses the land with a sense of awe and serenity that no visitor forgets.

Lumbini: The Sacred Birthplace of Buddha

Lumbini holds a profound place in world history and spirituality. Recognized as the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, this UNESCO World Heritage Site attracts Buddhists and peace-seekers from around the world.

The serene gardens, ancient ruins, and monasteries built by Buddhist communities from different countries make Lumbini a living symbol of global spiritual unity. It is a gentle reminder of Nepal’s contribution to the world’s philosophical and spiritual traditions.
International Temples of Lumbini
  1. Sacred Maya Devi Temple
  2. Nepali Monastery
  3. Cambodian Monastery
  4. Japanese Pagoda
  5. German Monastery
  6. Chinese Monastery
  7. Singaporean Monastery
  8. Vietnamese Temple
  9. Korean Temple
  10. Royal Thai Monastery
  11. Canadian Monastery
  12. Myanmar Monastery
  13. French Monastery
  14. Sri Lankan Monastery
  15. Austrian Monastery
  16. Indian Monastery
Historical cities of Nepal

1. Kathmandu

The capital and cultural heart of Nepal.

Home to Durbar Square, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and many centuries-old temples and palaces.

A melting pot of Newar architecture, Buddhist and Hindu traditions, and ancient trade routes.

2. Bhaktapur

  • Known as the "City of Devotees", located just east of Kathmandu.
  • Famous for its well-preserved medieval art and architecture, including Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Nyatapola Temple, and intricate wood carvings.
  • Still retains a strong traditional way of life and craftsmanship.

3. Patan (Lalitpur)

  • Also known as the "City of Fine Arts".
  • Renowned for its Patan Durbar Square, stunning metalwork, stone sculpture, and Buddhist viharas (monasteries).
  • A major center for Newar artisanship and religious harmony.
Buddhist Monasteries in Nepal

Buddhism in Nepal is a profound and living tradition that dates back over 2,600 years, with Nepal being the birthplace of Lord Buddha in Lumbini. The country is a unique crossroads of Mahayana, Vajrayana, and Theravada schools of Buddhism, harmoniously coexisting with Hinduism.

From the sacred stupas of Boudhanath and Swayambhunath to the serene monasteries of Namo Buddha and Kopan, Nepal is a vibrant center of Buddhist learning, art, and pilgrimage. With deep spiritual roots and cultural diversity, Buddhism continues to shape Nepal's identity as a peaceful, reflective, and spiritually rich nation.

Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) in Kathmandu
Kopan Monastery in Kathmandu
Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery (Namo Buddha) in Kavre
White Monastery (Seto Gumba) in Nagarjun
Lumbini Monastic Zone in Lumbini, Rupandehi
Tengboche Monastery in Khumbu Region
Shechen Monastery in Boudhanath, Kathmandu
Dhagpo Sheydrub Ling Monastery in Kathmandu
Thangka Art of Nepal
Thangka art is a sacred and intricate form of Buddhist painting traditionally created on cotton or silk scrolls, widely practiced and preserved in Nepal, especially among the Newar and Tibetan Buddhist communities. These artworks typically depict Buddhas, bodhisattvas, mandalas, deities, and spiritual narratives, serving as meditation aids, teaching tools, and offerings. Every element of a thangka—from its colors and geometry to its iconography—follows precise spiritual symbolism and ritual guidelines. In Nepal, the city of Bhaktapur and Boudhanath in Kathmandu are renowned centers for authentic thangka production and training.
Thangka painting is not just visual art—it's a devotional act and spiritual discipline. Artists often undergo years of rigorous training in Buddhist philosophy, iconometry, and natural pigment preparation. Many thangkas use 24k gold and mineral-based pigments, giving them a radiant, timeless quality. Today, thangka art is recognized globally as a living cultural heritage of Nepal, balancing tradition and innovation while continuing to inspire both local practitioners and international collectors and spiritual seekers.
Mithila Art of Nepal
Thangka art is a sacred and intricate form of Buddhist painting traditionally created on cotton or silk scrolls, widely practiced and preserved in Nepal, especially among the Newar and Tibetan Buddhist communities. These artworks typically depict Buddhas, bodhisattvas, mandalas, deities, and spiritual narratives, serving as meditation aids, teaching tools, and offerings. Every element of a thangka—from its colors and geometry to its iconography—follows precise spiritual symbolism and ritual guidelines. In Nepal, the city of Bhaktapur and Boudhanath in Kathmandu are renowned centers for authentic thangka production and training.
Sacred Hindu Temples and Living Traditions
Nepal is one of the few countries in the world with a majority Hindu population, and its cities are dotted with ancient temples that remain active centers of worship.
The Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is among the most revered Hindu temples globally and a UNESCO site.

Walking through any old town in Nepal, you’ll find a blend of shrines, prayer wheels, and incense-filled courtyards, revealing a society where spiritual life is woven into daily existence.
Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu
Muktinath Temple in Mustang
Janaki Mandir in Janakpur
Manakamana Temple in Gorkha
Doleshwar Mahadev Temple in Bhaktapur
Changu Narayan Temple in Bhaktapur
Halesi Mahadev Temple in Khotang
Pathibhara Devi Temple in Taplejung
A Mosaic of Ethnicities and Languages
Nepal is home to more than 125 ethnic groups and over 120 languages, creating a mosaic of cultures that coexist in harmony. From the Newars of the Kathmandu Valley to the Tharu of the Terai plains, and the Sherpas of the high Himalayas, every community brings its own traditions, festivals, and worldviews.

This ethnic and linguistic richness is evident in Nepal’s music, attire, cuisine, and architecture—each region offering a slightly different flavor of the same warm Nepali spirit.
A Mosaic of Ethnicities and Languages
Nepal is home to more than 125 ethnic groups and over 120 languages, creating a mosaic of cultures that coexist in harmony. From the Newars of the Kathmandu Valley to the Tharu of the Terai plains, and the Sherpas of the high Himalayas, every community brings its own traditions, festivals, and worldviews.

This ethnic and linguistic richness is evident in Nepal’s music, attire, cuisine, and architecture—each region offering a slightly different flavor of the same warm Nepali spirit.
  • Khas Arya
    High-caste Indo-Aryan Hindus of Nepal, historically dominant in language, politics, and society, including groups like Chhetri, Bahun, Thakuri, and Sanyasi.
  • Sherpa
    Sherpas are an ethnic group from Nepal's Himalayan region, famed globally for their mountaineering expertise, resilience, and rich Tibetan-influenced culture.

  • Newar
    Indigenous people of the Kathmandu Valley, renowned for their rich urban culture, exquisite art and architecture, and a unique fusion of Hindu and Buddhist traditions.
  • Magar
    One of Nepal’s largest indigenous ethnic groups, known for their rich cultural heritage, diverse dialects, and historic contributions to the Gurkha military tradition.
  • Tharu
    Indigenous ethnic group of Nepal’s Terai region, known for their unique forest-based culture, vibrant festivals, and resilience to malaria.
  • Tamang
    Prominent Himalayan ethnic group of Nepal, known for their Buddhist traditions, rich musical heritage, and distinct language and dress.
  • Raute
    A nomadic indigenous community of Nepal known for their hunter-gatherer lifestyle, craftsmanship, and distinct cultural identity.
  • Chepang
    An indigenous group primarily in central Nepal, recognized for their semi-nomadic lifestyle, deep forest knowledge, and rich traditional customs.
  • Kirant
    Indigenous ethnic group of eastern Nepal, including groups like Rai, Limbu and Sanuwar, known for their rich oral traditions, diverse languages, and vibrant customs rooted in the ancient Kirati culture.
  • Thakuri
    Forged a legacy deeply rooted in Nepalese history. Their contributions to politics, culture, and society continue to be remembered and celebrated, reflecting their enduring impact on the nation.
  • Gurung
    Indigenous ethnic group of Nepal known for their rich cultural heritage, bravery in the Gurkha regiments, and vibrant traditions of dance and music
  • Maithali
    Ethnic community in the Terai region, celebrated for their vibrant cultural heritage, traditional arts, and devotion to rituals and festivals.
Meet the sky inhabitants of Nepal
  1. Himalayan Monal
  2. Satyr Tragopan
  3. Spiny Babbler
  4. White-Bellied Heron
  5. Bengal Florican
  6. Cheer Pheasant
  7. Hodgson’s Bushchat
  8. Slender-billed Vulture
  9. Ibisbill
  10. Rufous-necked Hornbill
  11. Great Barbet
  12. Verditer Flycatcher
  13. Green-tailed Sunbird
  14. Asian Paradise Flycatcher
  15. Long-tailed Broadbill
  16. Golden Bush Robin
  17. White-crested Laughingthrush
  18. Common Kingfisher
  19. Alexandrine Parakeet
  20. Common Myna
A Paradise of Flora
Nepal’s dramatic elevation range—from subtropical plains to alpine meadows—makes it one of the most botanically diverse countries in the world. It hosts over 6,500 species of flowering plants, including orchids, magnolias, and medicinal herbs, many of which are unique to the region.

Botanists and nature lovers find Nepal an open-air laboratory, where every trail reveals new layers of ecological richness.
  1. Rhododendron (National flower of Nepal - 30+ types found in the country)
  2. Blue Poppy
  3. Brahma Kamal
  4. Edelweiss
  5. Himalayan Lily
  6. Himalayan Cobra Lily
  7. Primula denticulata
  8. Magnolia
  9. Daphne
  10. Orchids
  11. Camellia
  12. Wild Rose
  13. Gentian
  14. Saussurea gossypiphora
  15. Marigold

Nepali Wild Life

Cow

A sacred symbol of purity and motherhood, commonly found in villages and rural farms across Nepal's hills and plains.

Yak

A hardy Himalayan beast, essential to highland life, inhabiting the cold alpine regions of Mustang, Dolpo, Humla, and other areas above 3,000 meters.

Royal Bengal Tiger

A powerful predator prowling the dense jungles of Chitwan, Bardia, and Parsa in Nepal’s Terai. An iconic and endangered species.

One-Horned Rhinoceros

A prehistoric giant thriving in the riverine grasslands of Chitwan and Bardia National Parks. A conservation success story.

Asian Elephant

A gentle giant roaming the forests and floodplains of southern Nepal’s Terai belt. Revered in Nepalese culture.

Snow Leopard

A ghost of the Himalayas, silently stalking the rugged cliffs of Mustang, Dolpo, and Manang. Rare, elusive, and endangered.

Red Panda

A tree-dwelling gem of eastern Nepal’s temperate forests in Ilam, Taplejung, and Kanchenjunga. Arboreal, shy, and vulnerable.

Himalayan Black Bear

A forest-dwelling omnivore of Nepal’s mid-hills and subalpine zones, often seen in Langtang and Annapurna. Omnivorous and powerful.

Clouded Leopard

A rare and secretive feline gliding through the misty forests of mid-hill regions like Makwanpur and eastern Nepal.

Gaur (Indian Bison)

A towering wild cattle species roaming the dense western forests of Banke and Bardia. The largest wild cattle species.

Wild Water Buffalo (Arna)

A powerful, endangered beast surviving in the wetlands of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve. Critically endangered.

Leopard

A stealthy and adaptable hunter inhabiting forests and farmlands across Nepal, from Terai to mid-hills.

Blue Sheep (Bharal)

A cliff-climbing herbivore found in the high-altitude pastures of Mustang, Dolpo, and Mugu. Main prey of snow leopards.

Himalayan Tahr

A shaggy mountain goat navigating steep alpine cliffs in Langtang, Everest, and Dhaulagiri regions.

Assam Macaque

A forest primate with a stern look, living in the eastern and central hill forests of Nepal. A native monkey for the region.

Hog Deer

A lowland grassland dweller, spotted in Chitwan and Koshi Tappu’s open meadows and wetlands. A rare deer.

Indian Pangolin

A nocturnal, ant-eating mammal quietly burrowing in forest floors across the Terai and Siwalik ranges. Nocturnal and solitary; threatened due to poaching and illegal trade.

Himalayan Gray Langur

A sacred, long-tailed monkey leaping through forests from the Terai to Himalayan foothills. They love to spend time on the ground and up among trees. Himalayan Gray Langurs pick out the highest branches to sleep on at night.

🌿 Medicinal Herbs of Nepal

Nepal, with its diverse geography—from the steamy Terai plains to the soaring Himalayas—is home to over 1,800 species of medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs). These healing herbs have been used for centuries in Ayurveda, Tibetan medicine, and local folk traditions, making Nepal one of the world’s richest herbal resource zones.
Here are some of the most well-known and powerful medicinal herbs of Nepal:

  • Timur

    Use: Toothache relief, digestion aid, and spice.
    Known for: Its tingling, numbing sensation and antibacterial properties.

  • Jatamansi

    Use: Nervous system tonic, stress relief, memory enhancement.
    Found in: Alpine regions (over 3,000 m), like Mustang and Dolpo.

  • Chiraito

    Use: Liver tonic, anti-fever, anti-diabetic.
    Taste: Bitter, used as a traditional remedy for malaria and jaundice.

  • Wild Himalayan Garlic

    Use: Blood pressure regulation, cholesterol control, immunity boosting.
    Grows in: High-altitude fields and gardens.

  • Rhododendron

    Use: Flowers used for tea; anti-inflammatory and good for respiratory health.
    Symbol: National flower of Nepal.

  • Yarsagumba

    Use: Energy booster, aphrodisiac, immune modulator.
    Value: Known as “Himalayan Viagra”; one of the most expensive natural medicines in the world.

  • Tulsi

    Use: Cold, flu, immune support, sacred Ayurvedic herb.
    Grows in: Household gardens and wild areas in the Terai and hills.

  • Harro, Barro, Amala (Triphala)

    Use: Digestive support, detoxification, rejuvenation.
    Triphala: A powerful Ayurvedic blend made from these three fruits.

  • Kurilo

    Use: Women’s health, fertility, hormonal balance.
    Harvested in: Hilly regions of central and western Nepal.

  • Sugandhawal

    Use: Sedative, sleep aid, anxiety relief.
    Grows in: Cool, shaded Himalayan zones.