Tamangs--The oldest ethnic group in Nepal?

In Nepal, there are many different ethnic groups that still hold tightly to their traditional culture and customs--distinguishing themselves from other Nepali groups. The Tamang people are amongst the most well known ethnic groups in Nepal--mainly for their exuberant dress and the fact that they are found in numerous regions throughout the country. Tamangs make up around 5.6% of the Nepali population. They are ranked 5th in Nepal in reference to population and 3rd largest amongst the ethnic groups.

Tamang people can be found in the Sindhupalchowk, Rasuwa, Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Lalitpur, Dhading, Makwanpur, Nuwakot, Ramechhap, Dolakha, Chitwan and Kavreplanchowk districts of Nepal, as well as India, Bhutan, and Burma. 

The Tamang people trace their heritage back to Tibet and are part of the major Tibeto-Burmese ethnic group. Tamangs are usually darker in color and have  more Mongolian features. It is said that Tamangs are a direct lineage to Mongolians--and are therefore the oldest tribe to have inhabited Nepal--and specifically Kathmandu Valley, which was then called Yambu.
 
Tamang, in Tibetan, means ‘horse traders’. It said that during the Nepal/Tibet War--That Tamangs were horse riding soldiers. In modern day, this group has mostly settled in the hills surrounding the Kathmandu valley. Their main practicing religion is Buddhism and they are generally farmers, labourers, and porters. They also have their own language, Tamang, of which, as of 2001, 92% of Tamangs speak fluently. They also have their own form of tribal government. In this ethnic group there are different people appointed to different tasks such as death, cultural celebrations, marriages, holy days/ceremonies, & history preservation.

Tamangs are known for their hospitality and love of music. One of the favorite instruments used by Tamangs in the Damphu Drum (Tamborine). They are also renowned for their skills in weaving incredibly warm sheep wool jackets for harsh winters, and their beautiful basket weaving--generally used for grain/vegetable storage. 

Momo Mania

If you've ever been to Nepal, you'll surely be familiar with this fun little snack. Momos are Tibetan stuffed dumplings--which can be filled with chicken, buffalo, lamb, pork, veg, and even yummy fusion momos stuffed with Snickers!

If you're missing Nepal--or just want to try out a new cuisine for your next dinner party--Here's a great recipe for Non-Veg Momos--but you can always substitute the meat for potatoes and your other favorite, finely chopped, veggies.

You will need:

Dumpling Wrap:
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon oil
water, as required
1 pinch salt

Filling:
2 lbs lean ground meat (50% lamb or chicken & 50% pork works best)
1 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup green onion, finely chopped
1 cup ripe tomato, finely chpped
3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1 tablespoon curry powder, or momo masala if available
3 fresh red chilies, minced (or to taste)
3 tablespoons cooking oil
salt and pepper

Directions:

Dough:

• In a large bowl combine flour, oil, salt and water.

• Mix well, knead until the dough becomes homogeneous in texture, about 8-10 minute.

• Cover and let stand for at least 30 minute.

• Knead well again before making wrappers.

Filling:

• In a large bowl combine all filling ingredients.

• Mix well, adjust for seasoning with salt and pepper.

• Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow all ingredients to impart their unique flavors.

• This also improves the consistency of the filling.

Assembly:

• Give the dough a final knead.

• Prepare 1-in. dough balls.

• Take a ball, roll between your palms to spherical shape. 

• Dust working board with dry flour. 

• On the board gently flatten the ball with your palm to about 2-in circle.

• Make a few semi-flattened circles, cover with a bowl.  

• Use a rolling pin to roll out each flattened circle into a wrapper.

For well executed MOMO's, it is essential that the middle portion of the wrapper be slightly thicker than the edges to ensure the structural integrity of dumplings during packing and steaming.

• Hold the edges of the semi-flattened dough with one hand and with the other hand begin rolling the edges of the dough out, swirling a bit at a time.

• Continue until the wrapper attains 3-in diameter circular shape.

• Repeat with the remaining semi-flattened dough circles.

• Cover with bowl to prevent from drying.

• For packing hold wrapper on one palm, put one tablespoon of filling mixture and with the other hand bring all edges together to the center, making the pleats.

• Pinch and twist the pleats to ensure the absolute closure of the stuffed dumpling. This holds the key to good tasting, juicy dumplings.

• Heat up a steamer, oil the steamer rack well. This is critical because it will prevent dumplings from sticking. Arrange uncooked dumplings in the steamer.

• Close the lid, and allow steaming until the dumplings are cooked through, about 10 minutes.

• Take dumplings off the steamer and serve immediately.

Alternatively, you can place uncooked dumplings directly in slightly salted boiling water and cook until done, approximately 10 minutes. Be careful not to over boil the dumplings.

To serve, arrange the momos on a serving plate with hot tomato achar (pickle) or any other chutneys as condiment.

                                                          Enjoy your taste of Nepal!

Mountains & Monasteries

Tyangboche

If you dream of visiting the Everest Region, but you have limited time and/or trekking experience in Nepal--then the Mountains and Monasteries trek is for you. This 8 day trek is perfect for families and elderly people, as well. We recently had an entire family (Mom, Dad, 2 small children under the age of 10, and Grandparents) complete this trek with ease. They had a spectacular time amongst the world's highest mountains.

Phakding

This trek offers amazing views of Lhotse, Lhotse Shar, Peak 38, Amadabalm, and of course, Mt. Everest! As you travel through the world's highest National Park, you'll experience Sherpa culture at its finest, while walking amongst some of the Earth's most breathtaking scenery.

One major highlight of this trek is visting Tyangboche, one of the highest monasteries in the Khumbu region. Here, you will get a feel of the Sherpa people's religion--which is heavily influenced by Tibetan Buddhism.

Between Phakding & Namche

The itinerary for Mountains & Monasteries is as follows:

Day 1: Fly out of Kathmandu- Lukla, trek to Phakding
Day 2: Trek to Namche Bazaar
Day 3: Acclimatization Day
Day 4: Trek to Tyangboche
Day 5: Exploration Day
Day 6: Trek back to Khumjung
Day 7: Trek back to Lukla
Day 8: Fly back to Kathmandu



If you're interested in booking this trip for you and your loved ones, or even if you want to go it solo -- Let us know!

Thamel, Is it for you?

In recent years Thamel has become the tourist hub of Nepal. Travelers from all over the world converge here in local guesthouses and hotels--to explore Kathmandu, eat, drink, shop, and make plans to venture out into the great unknown of the Nepali Himalayas.

There are a plethora of restaurants to choose from, with cuisines ranging everything from western-style fast food to gormet French delicacies. The nightlife in Thamel is more or less the same regardless of where you go. The two extremes of that being live rock music performed by local artists or quiet, traditional live music performed by local artists. Either way, your ears are in for a treat. The talent in Thamel is actually quite astounding.

If shopping is your thing, you'll love Thamel. Beware of the tricky shop owners that see a foreign face and think dollar signs. Don't be afraid to bargain, but remember, they do have families to feed at home. Offer what you think is fair and you'll get a good compromise every time. In Thamel you can find gurkas (knives), pashminas, cashmere clothing, hiking gear, hippie clothes, paintings, traditional clothing, tapestries, teas, and much more.

Also, if you're looking to book a trip-- look no further than bustling Thamel. As of late, there are over 700 travel agencies in Thamel alone. For those of you who know Thamel, you know its not that big of a space. You can book everything from Terai tours, to trekking/peak climbing expeditions, to rafting and bungy jumping. Whatever you desire to do in Nepal, you'll find an agency ready to accommodate your needs!

So--the question is.. Is Thamel for you? For those who like constant auditory stimulation, human interaction, and bustling city life-- I would say Thamel is the place for you. You'll meet new people at every turn and have a number of choices on where to appease your appetite or quench your thirst.

If you'd like to hear no noise, keep away from the shopping stalls, and do your own thing-- I would suggest Thamel is not for you.


If you're in the area, stop in and see us for any information you might need--We even have free city maps! Our offices are on Mandala Street (Next to the NEW OR2K) and in the small plaza next to Kathmandu Guesthouse. Look forward to seeing you in the madness!

Island Peak: 2011 Expedition

 Island Peak, in the Everest region of Nepal, was named by Eric Shipton and his expedition team in 1952--as they said it looked like an island in a sea of ice. The Nepali name is Imja Tse. This peak can be found between the Lhotse and Imja Glaciers, standing at 6,189m/20,305ft. From here, you can see stunning views of Lhotse and Ama Dablam. 

In April of 2011, Italian born citizen, Matteo Reforzo, set out on an adventure of a lifetime with the Trek Nepal team, in collaboration with Italian adventure operator Viagga con Carlo. He and another friend reached Base Camp (5,100m) on April 22nd and successfully attempted summit (6,189m) on April 23rd, 2011. Summit took the team 8 hours, but they made it. Here is their story in photos--

 Trekking to Base Camp

 Prayer Flags for a safe ascent

 Himalayan Peaks

 Natural Beauty

 Matteo in the Mountains

 Camping

 Climbing

 6,188m -- 1 more meter to go until summit!

They made it! Congratulations men!

Tibet Motorbike Tour

Attention all adventure seekers:

Bookings are now available for the Tibet Motorbike Tour-- What is this, you ask? Exactly as it states: A thrilling 11 day tour through the mysterious Tibet on none other than a 500cc Royal Enfield motorbike.

The roads are both challenging and exhilarating to navigate. You'll see some of the world's best high altitude views, while experiencing a culture that is still closed off to most of the world. 

Lead by experienced guides and followed (for safety reasons) by a jeep of staff--this tour will lead you from Nepal's capital, Kathmandu, to the border crossing at Kodari--along the Tibetan Plateau (4,900m), past Everest Base Camp, Rongbuk, and over the Gyatso La (5,220m) and Karo La (5,050m) passes. Once in Tibet, you will pass Shigatse, Tibet's 2nd largest city, and pass the pristine turquoise waters of Yamdrok Tso--all before arriving in Lhasa. You'll enjoy stunning desert landscapes, with roads that disappear into the horizon. You will encounter nomadic life, ancient monasteries, and get a feel for one of the most well kept cultures in the world.



In Lhasa, you will visit the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Sera, Drepung, and more before leaving the so-called Roof of the World. From Lhasa, you will fly back to Kathmandu--enjoying spectacular mountain views along the way.


If you're an adventure seeker and motorbike lover--This is the trip of life time you don't want to miss out on.



Tibet borders are now partially open to groups of 6 or more of the same nationality--Remember: If you book your trip in advance while the borders are open, and the borders close at the time of your trip, you can still go on your trek/tour because you booked when the borders were open!

Happy Tihar!

As the end of the holiday season approaches--we are blessed with one final celebration of life, prosperity, and happiness-- Tihar--also known as Diwali.

Tihar means "The Festival of Lights" Many candles are lite both inside and outside of houses to brighten  the night.

Tihar is a 5 day long Hindu festival that appoints each day for a blessing of a certain animal or person. The first day, yesterday, was puja (or offering) to the crows. The cawing of crows represents death and grief, so offerings are made to them at this time to avert death and grief in the household.

 Today is puja for dogs--so you will see many dogs around Katmandu with red tikas on their foreheads, and maybe even flower garlands around their neck if they tolerate it! Dogs are known to be the messengers of the God Yamaraj--the messenger of death--so the offering is to again, avert this in the household.

The third day is to honor the holy Cow--Cows are seen as a sign of prosperity and wealth and also the animal of Lord Shiva, who is extremely sacred to Hindus. The Goddess Laxmi is also worshiped on this day, as she is also the Goddess of wealth and prosperity.

The fourth day is can be for the worship of oxen or for Lord Krishna, for those who follow. This day also begins the New Year, especially celebrated by Newars--or the indigenous of Katmandu Valley.

The fifth and final day is the day for all sisters to give tikas to their brothers to ensure them a long life and thank them for the protection that they give.

You may hear firecrackers in the night, as this is quite a common celebratory practice for Tihar/Diwali. Many places throughout India and Nepal are promoting a greener Tihar and refraining from using firecrackers, which pollute our air with their debris and our neighborhoods with their sound.

Have a very happy Tihar -- Many blessings to you all!

What to Bring

Many of our clients have never been trekking before--or if they have, its been in different areas of the world where the climate and terrain are different. One of the number one questions we receive before departing is, "What do I bring?!" The trick is--you don't want to bring too much--and definitely not too little--especially during the winter.

Certain areas of Nepal require different gear, such as treks where you'll be going above the snowline, as opposed to the warmer southern regions of Nepal. Established routes, such as Annapurna and Everest, usually have shops along the way if you're missing something vital--but it can be quite costly.

Here is what we, at Trek Nepal, recommend you bring with you on your next Himalayan adventure:

• 1 Pair of Hiking Boots (Or comfortable shoes for established routes)
• 1 Med. Sized Backpack
• 1 Day Pack (For personal items i.e. camera, money, etc...)
• 1 Sleeping Bag (Recommended up to -20C)
• 1 Down Jacket/Goretex Jacket (In colder northern regions/during winter)
• 1 Light Wind & Waterproof Jacket
• 1 Inner Sleeping Sheet
• 2 Long-Sleeve Shirts
• 1 Water Bottle (We provide treated drinking water and DO NOT recommend you buying bottled water)
• 1 Pair of Gaiters/Over Trousers (Colder weather/when snow)
• 1 Pair Sport Shoes/Sandals (Especially in Southern/Lower Mountainous Regions)
• 2 Pairs of Light Weight Trousers
• 1 Pair of Shorts
• 1 Fleece/Warm Sweater
• 2 T-Shirts
• 2 Pairs of Light Socks
• 3 Pairs of Heavy Wool Socks
• 1 Sweatshirt/Light Sweater
• 1 Torch(Flashlight)/Spare Batteries
• 1 Swimming Costume/Bathing Suit (For Annapurna Region (Hot Springs) and Chitwan)
• 1 Med. Size Towel
• Personal Tolietries
• Biodegradable soap/shampoo
• Insect Repellent
• Moleskin/BandAids for Blisters
• Swiss Army Knife
• Toilet Paper
• Personal Medications
• Underwear (Incl. Thermals)
• Warm Hat & Gloves
• Sunglasses & Sun Hat
• Spare plastic bag for wrapping clothes

There are laundry facilities along most established routes--so remember, pack lightly. You'll be amazed how little you really need when its just you and the mountains!

Animal Friendly Dashain

Every year during Dashain, the biggest holiday/festival in Nepal, many buffalo, chicken, and goats are sacrificed in the name of Gods and Goddesses. This has been a long standing tradition in Nepal--especially in the Newar community--or those who are native to Kathmandu Valley. 

As you walk through the streets of Kathmandu today, you'll see many people carting their goats home and many people selling baskets full of chickens on the side of the road. This meat is eaten, and therefore not wasted--but the problem is not the consumption of meat--but rather the method and purpose of the sacrifice. 

No where in the religious texts does it say specifically to slaughter an animal to appease the Gods. The texts mention offering human flaws and habits to the the deities--and such things like fruit and vegetables are just as acceptable. It is only longstanding fear of the wrath of the Gods that allows these continued atrocities to occur. 

Only with knowledge, awareness, and faith in your Gods being kind, loving Gods--can Nepal move forward from this barbaric encrouchment on another living soul. 

Be responsible--be animal friendly--and enjoy your Dashain by celebrating life--not destroying it.   


                      

The Nepali Flag--A symbol of uniqueness

                 Everyone who travels Nepal is bound to hear at least once from either a Nepali or foreigner, “Did you know that Nepal’s flag is the only one in the world without a rectangular shape?” It is something that Nepali people are very proud of and foreigners are eager to share with others. What both Nepalese and foreigners may not know is why!

                It is said that long ago, many regions had flags with different shapes. It was actually European ships that started the trend of rectangular shaped flags for their ships, as this fit best on the masts and the customary cloth used to make the flags was cut into rectangular shapes. These, in turn, gave way to flags for regions/territories conquered by the European countries. After the much later liberation of most of the countries conquered by European countries, most kept at least the given rectangular shape of their flags created by their conquerors. It is another prideful fact that Nepal was never conquered, and thus, kept their original pendant-shaped flag.

                The reason there are 2 pendants goes back to the ruling Rana dynasty. The upper moon pendant represents the Royal house, while the lower part represents the members of the Rana family that acted as Prime Ministers. The two pendants were joined in 1962, when the official Nepali flag was created, along with the constitutional form of government. It is said that this flag is the representation of the hope that Nepal will at last live in unity. The credit for the creation of the modern flag is documented as being given to King Prithvi Narayan Shah.

                The color “crimson,” or red, in the flag is both the national color and said to represent the bravery of Nepali people and is also the color of luck in Hinduism. The blue colored outline in the flag is said to represent knowledge, honesty, and tranquillity.  The use of the Sun and Moon are generally thought to give the same meanings—the Sun coinciding with red and the Moon with blue. The motto on the coat of arms for Nepal is: “The mother and the Mother Earth are more important than the heavenly kingdom.”

                                                                                                        

Nepal’s flag is based on unity, pride, respect, and passion—may we not forget this in the current time of political strife in Nepal—Unify.