International Day for Biological Diversity

The International Day for Biological Diversity is a global observance that takes place on May 22nd each year. It aims to raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity and the need to protect and conserve the variety of life on Earth. 

The day serves as a reminder of the vital role that biodiversity plays in sustaining ecosystems, providing essential ecosystem services, and supporting human well-being. It also highlights the threats to biodiversity, such as habitat loss, climate change, pollution, and overexploitation of natural resources. 

The International Day for Biological Diversity encourages individuals, organizations, and governments to take action to safeguard biodiversity and promote sustainable practices to preserve the Earth's rich and diverse ecosystems.

Background of Bio Diversity day

The International Day for Biological Diversity, also known as World Biodiversity Day, was designated by the United Nations General Assembly to raise global awareness about biodiversity issues. It was first observed on December 29th, 1993, to commemorate the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), which took place on December 29th, 1992, during the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

The CBD is an international treaty that aims to promote the conservation of biodiversity, the sustainable use of its components, and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources. It recognizes that biodiversity is essential for sustaining life on Earth, providing ecosystem services, and supporting human well-being.

To emphasize the importance of biodiversity, the CBD Secretariat proposed shifting the observance of the International Day for Biological Diversity to May 22nd, starting in 2001. May 22nd was chosen to coincide with the anniversary of the adoption of the CBD and to avoid conflicting with other holidays and events celebrated in December.

Since then, the International Day for Biological Diversity has become a global platform to raise awareness, promote understanding, and encourage action to safeguard biodiversity. Each year, a specific theme is chosen to focus on a particular aspect of biodiversity conservation. The day's celebrations include various activities such as conferences, workshops, exhibitions, community events, and educational programs, all aimed at highlighting the importance of biodiversity and the need for its protection.

The theme for this year:

Biodiversity Day 2023 is being celebrated under the slogan: " “Building a shared future for all life”.".

Biodiversity in Nepal

Nepal is a country known for its rich biodiversity due to its diverse geography, ranging from the lowland Terai plains to the high Himalayas. Here are some key points about biodiversity in Nepal:

1. Species Diversity: Nepal is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. It has been identified as one of the biodiversity hotspots in the world. The country boasts a diverse array of plant species, including more than 6,000 flowering plants, 1,019 orchid species, and numerous medicinal plants. Nepal is also known for its wildlife, such as the Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, Asian elephant, red panda, and snow leopard.
2. Protected Areas: Nepal has established several protected areas to conserve its biodiversity. These include national parks, wildlife reserves, conservation areas, and buffer zones. These protected areas cover various ecosystems, including the Chitwan National Park, Sagarmatha National Park (home to Mount Everest), Bardia National Park, and Annapurna Conservation Area, among others.
3. Himalayan Biodiversity: The Himalayas play a crucial role in Nepal's biodiversity. It is home to many unique and endemic species adapted to the high-altitude environment. The region harbors diverse ecosystems, including alpine meadows, rhododendron forests, and snow-capped peaks. It supports a range of species, including the elusive snow leopard, Himalayan monal, and various high-altitude plants.
4. Conservation Efforts: Nepal has made significant efforts in biodiversity conservation. The country has implemented various initiatives to protect endangered species, promote sustainable tourism, and engage local communities in conservation activities. Community-based conservation projects, such as the Annapurna Conservation Area Project, have been successful in involving local communities in sustainable resource management.
5. Challenges: Nepal faces several challenges in biodiversity conservation. These include habitat loss due to deforestation, illegal wildlife trade, climate change impacts on fragile ecosystems, and human-wildlife conflicts. The country's rapid development and growing population also exert pressure on natural resources.

To protect and conserve biodiversity, Nepal has participated in international agreements and conventions such as the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and has developed its own policies and strategies for sustainable development and conservation. The government, NGOs, and local communities continue to work together to address these challenges and preserve Nepal's rich biodiversity for future generations.

Indra Jatra

Indra Jatra is an annual festival celebrated in Nepal, particularly in the Kathmandu Valley, to honor the Hindu god Indra, the king of heaven and the god of rain and thunder. The festival usually takes place in late September or early October, and lasts for eight days.

During Indra Jatra, large crowds gather in the streets to witness various cultural and religious events, including the chariot procession of the living goddess Kumari, masked dances performed by both professional and amateur dancers, and the display of various deities and idols. The festival is also marked by the raising of a tall wooden pole (known as a "lingo") in the center of Kathmandu's Durbar Square, which is believed to symbolize the presence of Indra himself.

Indra Jatra has its origins in ancient Hindu mythology, and is believed to have been celebrated in Nepal for over a thousand years. Today, it remains an important cultural event in the country, attracting both locals and visitors alike.

Biska Jatra of Bhaktapur

 Biska Jatra is an important festival celebrated in Bhaktapur, a historic city located in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal. The festival usually takes place in April, during the Nepali New Year, and lasts for nine days.

The festival is also known as the "Festival of the Lord of Victory" and is celebrated to mark the victory of the Bhaktapur people over the evil forces that once plagued the city. The main attraction of the festival is the display of two tall wooden poles, or lingo, which are erected in the center of the city.

On the first day of the festival, the poles are erected and a flag is hoisted on top of each one. The poles are then worshipped with offerings of flowers, fruits, and sweets. On the third day of the festival, a long bamboo pole is also erected on the top of the poles, and young men compete to climb up and reach the top.

The climax of the festival comes on the ninth day, which is also known as the Bisket Day. On this day, the poles are cut down and pulled to different parts of the city by groups of men. The pole pulling is accompanied by loud music and dancing, and the procession stops at various temples throughout the city. The pole pulling symbolizes the victory of good over evil, and the different stops represent the places where the evil spirits were defeated.

Overall, Biska Jatra is a colorful and lively festival that attracts thousands of visitors from Nepal and around the world. It is an important cultural event that celebrates the history and traditions of Bhaktapur and its people.

BANEPA GADHI

Banepa Gadhi is a historical fort located in Banepa, a city in Kavrepalanchok District of Nepal. It is situated on a hilltop at an altitude of 4,500 feet (1,371 meters) above sea level, overlooking the town of Banepa and the surrounding valley.

The fort was built in the 18th century by King Prithvi Narayan Shah, the founder of modern Nepal, as a strategic military outpost to defend his kingdom against the British East India Company. The fort played a significant role in the unification of Nepal as it served as a base for King Prithvi Narayan Shah's troops during his campaigns to conquer the Kathmandu Valley.

Today, Banepa Gadhi is a popular tourist attraction and a cultural heritage site that offers a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and the valley below. It is also an important pilgrimage site for the Newar community, who celebrate the annual festival of Bisket Jatra at the fort.

BANEPA GADHI Best for camping. Very peaceful. 

Kamal pokhari of Bhaktapur

Kamal Pokhari is a stunning and historic pond located in Bhaktapur, Nepal. This man-made pond is situated in the heart of the city and has been a popular destination for both locals and tourists for centuries.

The pond is believed to have been constructed during the Malla era in the 15th century and was later renovated by King Yaksha Malla in the 16th century. It was named Kamal Pokhari due to the lotus flowers that bloom on its surface, with Kamal meaning lotus in Nepali.

Kamal Pokhari is surrounded by a beautiful stone pavement and is home to a number of small temples and shrines dedicated to Hindu gods and goddesses. The pond is considered to be a sacred site by the locals, and many come here to offer prayers and make offerings to the gods.

One of the most striking features of Kamal Pokhari is the Yatu Ganesh temple located on the eastern side of the pond. This temple is dedicated to Guru Ganesh, one of the most important deities in the Hindu pantheon. It is believed that the temple was constructed during the reign of King Bhupatindra Malla in the 18th century.

The pond is also home to a number of fish species, including the famous silver carp. The fish in the pond is considered to be sacred and are often fed by visitors who come to the site.

Kamal Pokhari is not only a religious site, but it is also a popular destination for recreation and relaxation. The serene and peaceful environment around the pond makes it an ideal spot for meditation and reflection. Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll around the pond or sit on the stone pavements and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

In recent years, there have been efforts to preserve and renovate Kamal Pokhari in order to maintain its cultural and historical significance. The local government and other organizations have taken steps to clean up the pond and restore the surrounding areas, ensuring that it remains a beautiful and important site for generations to come.

Overall, Kamal Pokhari is a truly unique and special destination that offers a glimpse into Nepal's rich cultural heritage. Its serene and peaceful environment, coupled with its stunning architecture and natural beauty, make it a must-visit site for anyone traveling to Bhaktapur. 

Also visit the site: Bhaktapur City

Video of Kamal Pokhari Bhakapur : 

Siddha Pokhari Bhaktapur

Siddha Pokhari is a historic pond located in the city of Bhaktapur, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal. The pond, also known as Ta-Pukhu, was built during the reign of King Yaksha Malla in the 15th century.

Siddha Pokhari is a significant historical landmark in Bhaktapur, and it is considered to be one of the largest man-made ponds in Nepal. The pond covers an area of approximately 171,427 square feet and is surrounded by a stone wall. The water in the pond is believed to have healing properties, and it is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

In the past, the pond was used for various religious and cultural activities, including the Gai Jatra festival, which is a festival celebrated in Nepal to commemorate the dead. The pond is also believed to have been used for bathing and washing clothes in the past.

Today, the Siddha Pokhari is a peaceful spot in the midst of the bustling city of Bhaktapur, and it is a popular place for people to relax and enjoy the scenery. The pond has been restored and renovated several times over the years to maintain its historical significance, and it remains an important cultural landmark in Nepal.

Changu Narayan Temple

Changu Narayan Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the town of Bhaktapur, Nepal. It is one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Kathmandu Valley and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

The temple was built in the 4th century and is considered a masterpiece of Nepalese architecture. It is a two-story pagoda-style temple made of wood and stone, with intricate carvings and statues adorning its walls.

The main shrine of the temple contains a statue of Lord Vishnu in his Narayan form, which is said to be one of the finest examples of Nepalese metalwork. The temple also houses many other sculptures and carvings that depict scenes from Hindu mythology.

Changu Narayan Temple is surrounded by a beautiful forested area, and there are many other smaller shrines and temples nearby that are also worth visiting. The temple is considered a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and attracts thousands of visitors every year.

Overall, Changu Narayan Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Nepalese culture and history, as well as for those looking to experience the country's rich religious traditions.

Changunarayan Temple, Bhaktapur

Changunarayan Temple, Bhaktapur