#earthquakes in Himalayas

[futurefatum]

Shocking Predictions For The Next 10 Years (Tone: 310)

Sri M predicts rising environmental challenges, but a youth-driven spiritual awakening may avert disaster. #SpiritualAwakening #ClimateCrisis #Predictions

Published on March 14th, 2023 Sri M’s Shocking Predictions For The Next 10 Years ABOUT THIS VIDEO: The video titled “Sri M’s Shocking Predictions for the Next 10 Years” features spiritual teacher Sri M discussing various challenges humanity faces and offering insights into what may unfold over the next decade. Key topics include environmental degradation, such as rising sea levels and…

[buddhabodhi]

🕯️🕯️🕯️The people of Tibet were still deep in their dreams when the earthquake struck, waking them abruptly, some of whom would never awaken again.

Buildings collapsed in an instant, and some cracked beyond repair. After the quake, over ten aftershocks followed.

When the tremors subsided, a child, no older than three, was found wrapped in a blanket by their grandmother, their eyes filled with terror. Elderly people, unable to escape in time, were injured by falling debris.

In the face of such disaster, humanity often feels as fragile as ants beneath a storm.

I pray for those affected by the Tibet earthquake, for the safety and well-being of all, for comfort for the grieving, and for strength in these times of sorrow. May peace prevail and may compassion light the way through the darkness. 🙏🙏🙏

[androxys]

Nanda Parbat in 30 Seconds

I know Nanda Parbat gets used as a League of Assassins base a lot in fan media, likely because that was how it was depicted in Arrow. But I wanted to take a second and try to impress upon you how cool Nanda Parbat is without having anything to do with Ra's al Ghul (because it usually doesn't)

What is Nanda Parbat?

Nanda Parbat is a fictional city sequestered up somewhere in the Himalayas. It's hard to tell exactly where, because the whole premise of Nanda Parbat is that it's a magic hidden city.

You can't just walk there; individuals must embark on a pilgrimage to actually get there. Nanda Parbat is as much an idea as it is a real location-- when you seek Nanda Parbat, you are looking for spiritual development and revelation.

It's suggested that only those with good intentions can find the city on their own. However, there are maps to the city, which can allow those with evil intent into Nanda Parbat. The map isn't your typical piece of paper, though. It's split into components such as a birthmark, or a poem.

Once you're in Nanda Parbat, time stands still. The city is eternally at peace. Disease does not progress, and people do not die. You are the only thing that changes, transformed by your time in the unchanging city.

Who's In Nanda Parbat?

The big name in Nanda Parbat is Rama Kushna, the goddess who inhabits the temple.

When people go to Nanda Parbat on their quest for enlightenment, sometimes they find it on their own, and sometimes they have some help from Rama Kushna. She does your typical goddess stuff, such as guiding the hand of virtuous fighters and offering wisdom.

Rama Kushna is also the one who made Boston Brand into Deadman, after he was murdered. The two have a whole history, but that's its own thing.

The rest of Nanda Parbat's population are the monks who reside around the temple. They meditate and reflect on the meaning of everything and guard the Fountain of Youth.

Wait, the Fountain of Youth?

Yes, the Fountain of Youth is a thing in DC Comics. It played a big part in the crossover event The Resurrection of Ra's al Ghul. Long story short, Ra's al Ghul died and couldn't be revived in a Lazarus Pit, so his consciousness spent some time body jumping. The problem was, his spirit would burn out the host bodies, so he hoped to use the Fountain to stabilize himself. A rival faction of assassins that had come to power when Ra's was dead want to stop him from getting revived to full strength, so they assemble the aforementioned map to get to Nanda Parbat and destroy the Fountain before Ra's can get to it.

The Resurrection of Ra's al Ghul is not a kind story to Nanda Parbat. It pretty much gets razed to the ground by the conflict between Ra's, the rival faction, and Batman.

The monks explicitly tell Ra's off for bringing violence and death to the city. The monks channel the power of Rama Kushna and cause an earthquake, forcing everyone to leave the city.

If you're interested in reading more about Nanda Parbat, I really recommend reading the series 52! There are several appearances here, with lots of characters passing through on their own journeys. The Deadman series also has a good bit of the Shifting City in it too, but I haven't read it yet, so I can only recommend it as such.

Now go forth and find enlightenment!

[mineralsrocksandfossiltalks]

Monday Musings: Plate Tectonics

I can't believe it's already December! That means we are moving on from mineralogy to geology! This month is all about plate tectonics! What is plate tectonics? It is a scientific theory that Earth's lithosphere is broken up into plates kind of like giant puzzle pieces that have been slowly moving across the asthenosphere.

How do we know they are moving? Earthquakes and volcanoes are a pretty big clue (there's more but I will discuss these later posts). Earthquakes and volcanoes happen in very specific areas: plate boundaries. Let's take a look.

Divergent Plate Boundaries

As suggested by the name, divergent plate boundaries are where plates diverge or pull away from each other. As they do this, hot magma is pulled to the surface (it's less dense than the colder crustal rocks so it rises). A good example of a divergent plate boundary is the Mid-Atlantic Ridge which Iceland sits on top of. That's why it keeps erupting.

Here's a NASA photo from 3 days ago of the most current Icelandic eruption.

Volcanoes also happen at certain kinds of convergent plate boundaries called subduction zones.

Convergent Plate Boundaries

Convergent plate boundaries, as the name suggests, is where plates converge or come together. There are two kinds. One type is where a dense oceanic plate collides with a buoyant continental plate (or two oceanic plates). The continental plate sits higher in the upper mantle so it goes up and over the oceanic plate. This is called subduction.

As the oceanic plate sinks into the mantle below, it gets heated up and melted. That hot rock rises and forms volcanoes (in the absolute simplest sense). The Pacific Ring of Fire is a huge example of the this.

Famous volcanoes in that ring include Mt. St. Helen's

Krakatoa

and Mt. Tambora.

The second is when two continental plates collide as in the case of the Eurasian plate and the Indian Plate. In this case, they crumple and form huge mountain ranges like the Himalayas or the Alps.

As you can imagine, earthquakes are fairly common along collision zones.

Transform Plate Boundaries

The last type of plate boundary is a transform boundary. This is where two plates slide past each other and cause a bunch of friction. In rocks, we call those earthquakes. California probably has the most famous transform boundary in the form of the San Andreas Fault.

Often, transform faults are found perpendicular to divergent boundaries where rock breaks under stress.

I mean, look at all those transform faults along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge!

Now, if you like what you see here and want to go in more depth, check out my Patreon! There I have mini lessons posted that go over all the topics I learned in college in a time manageable way. You can also check out interviews and discussions with colleagues as those happen and join the Minerals, Rocks and Fossil Talks Discord server.

I also have paleoart for sale so if you are still looking for that perfect gift for Christmas you can find it there!

[allthegeopolitics]

https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/powerful-tibet-earthquake-kills-nearly-100-rattles-nepal-1.7166906

[psalm22-6]

The earthquake makes its record upon the seismograph, but where is the record of the trembling that seizes souls, such as bleached the heart of Jean Valjean? . . . There are more mysteries in the mind of man than in all heaven and hell; there are further distances than Arcturus, snowier peaks than the Himalayas, and stiller, stranger deeps than the underseas.

Frank Crane, The Baffling Soul, published in the Evening Star, April 1913

[spacetimewithstuartgary]

Powerful new US-Indian satellite will track Earth's changing surface

Data from NISAR will improve our understanding of such phenomena as earthquakes, volcanoes, and landslides, as well as damage to infrastructure.

We don't always notice it, but much of Earth's surface is in constant motion. Scientists have used satellites and ground-based instruments to track land movement associated with volcanoes, earthquakes, landslides, and other phenomena. But a new satellite from NASA and the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) aims to improve what we know and, potentially, help us prepare for and recover from natural and human-caused disasters.

The NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar) mission will measure the motion of nearly all of the planet's land and ice-covered surfaces twice every 12 days. The pace of NISAR's data collection will give researchers a fuller picture of how Earth's surface changes over time. "This kind of regular observation allows us to look at how Earth's surface moves across nearly the entire planet," said Cathleen Jones, NISAR applications lead at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California.

Together with complementary measurements from other satellites and instruments, NISAR's data will provide a more complete picture of how Earth's surface moves horizontally and vertically. The information will be crucial to better understanding everything from the mechanics of Earth's crust to which parts of the world are prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. It could even help resolve whether sections of a levee are damaged or if a hillside is starting to move in a landslide.

What lies beneath

Targeting an early 2025 launch from India, the mission will be able to detect surface motions down to fractions of an inch. In addition to monitoring changes to Earth's surface, the satellite will be able to track the motion of ice sheets, glaciers, and sea ice, and map changes to vegetation.

The source of that remarkable detail is a pair of radar instruments that operate at long wavelengths: an L-band system built by JPL and an S-band system built by ISRO. The NISAR satellite is the first to carry both. Each instrument can collect measurements day and night and see through clouds that can obstruct the view of optical instruments. The L-band instrument will also be able to penetrate dense vegetation to measure ground motion. This capability will be especially useful in areas surrounding volcanoes or faults that are obscured by vegetation.

"The NISAR satellite won't tell us when earthquakes will happen. Instead, it will help us better understand which areas of the world are most susceptible to significant earthquakes," said Mark Simons, the U.S. solid Earth science lead for the mission at Caltech in Pasadena, California.

Data from the satellite will give researchers insight into which parts of a fault slowly move without producing earthquakes and which sections are locked together and might suddenly slip. In relatively well-monitored areas like California, researchers can use NISAR to focus on specific regions that could produce an earthquake. But in parts of the world that aren't as well monitored, NISAR measurements could reveal new earthquake-prone areas. And when earthquakes do occur, data from the satellite will help researchers understand what happened on the faults that ruptured.

"From the ISRO perspective, we are particularly interested in the Himalayan plate boundary," said Sreejith K M, the ISRO solid Earth science lead for NISAR at the Space Applications Center in Ahmedabad, India. "The area has produced great magnitude earthquakes in the past, and NISAR will give us unprecedented information on the seismic hazards of the Himalaya."

Surface motion is also important for volcano researchers, who need data collected regularly over time to detect land movements that may be precursors to an eruption. As magma shifts below Earth's surface, the land can bulge or sink. The NISAR satellite will help provide a fuller picture for why a volcano deforms and whether that movement signals an eruption.

Finding normal

When it comes to infrastructure such as levees, aqueducts, and dams, NISAR's ability to provide continuous measurements over years will help to establish the usual state of the structures and surrounding land. Then, if something changes, resource managers may be able to pinpoint specific areas to examine. "Instead of going out and surveying an entire aqueduct every five years, you can target your surveys to problem areas," said Jones.

The data could be equally valuable for showing that a dam hasn't changed after a disaster like an earthquake. For instance, if a large earthquake struck San Francisco, liquefaction—where loosely packed or waterlogged sediment loses its stability after severe ground shaking—could pose a problem for dams and levees along the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta.

"There's over a thousand miles of levees," said Jones. "You'd need an army to go out and look at them all." The NISAR mission would help authorities survey them from space and identify damaged areas. "Then you can save your time and only go out to inspect areas that have changed. That could save a lot of money on repairs after a disaster."

IMAGE: The NISAR mission will help researchers get a better understanding of how Earth’s surface changes over time, including in the lead-up to volcanic eruptions like the one pictured, at Mount Redoubt in southern Alaska in April 2009. Credit: R.G. McGimsey/AVO/USGS

[alpineramble]

Tengboche Monastery: The Largest Monastery Among The Highest Mountains in the Everest Region

Tengboche Monastery is a sanctified place of serenity and devotion that is highly regarded in Tibetan Buddhism. Located in the northeastern part of Nepal, in the Sagarmatha National Park, the monastery is the most widely known Buddhist monastery in the Himalayas of Khumbu. A place of spiritualism and sacredness, it is nestled among the alpine hills, with the stunning backdrop of Ama Dablam and the intersection of two reverberating rivers, Dudh Koshi and Imja Khola. At an elevation of 3,867 meters and directly falling on the route of the Everest Base Camp Trek.

History and Historical Importance

Established in 1916 by Lama Gulu, a Tibetan monk known for being blessed by Ngawang Tenzin Norbu, who was known to be the fifth incarnation of Sangwa Dorje,. The Tengboche Monastery has stood the testament of time, as it was struck by an earthquake in 1934 and again destroyed in a fire in 1989. It was rebuilt both times, and now it has become a symbol of peace and resilience among the Sherpas and trekkers.

The monastery is a well-respected landmark among the trekking and mountaineering communities. As it falls right on the route to Mount Everest, many trekkers and mountaineers make a stop here to light candles and get blessings for a successful summit. Hence, it is also known as the “Gateway to Everest.”

Art and Architecture

Talking about the arts and architecture, many paintings, books, murals, and statues were destroyed during the fire, and only a few were salvaged. Now the monastery has been rebuilt under the leadership of the current Nawang Tenzing Jangpo, who is considered the incarnation of the founder, Lama Gulu, with the help of the donations of the trekkers. The walls are decorated with the intricate arts of the bodhisattva, drawn by the Tibetan painter Tarke-la.

From the gates of the monastery to the inside walls, it is filled with detailed paintings and carvings of symbols and arts representing Buddhist teachings and blessings. The paintings and architecture are the perfect fusion of Nepali and Tibetan culture and arts.

Connection with Culture and Traditions: Mani Rimdu Festival and Dumji Festival

The festival is celebrated with elaborate elements of religious ceremonialism, dance, and drama. Beginning on the first day of the tenth month of the Tibetan Lunar Calendar, the festival is celebrated with traditional dances with masks, praying ceremonies, and feasts.

Similarly, the Dumji festival is also celebrated among the Sherpa communities of Solukhumbu. While the Mani Rimdu festival marks the founding of Buddhism, the Dumji festival celebrates the birth of its founder, Guru Rinpoche Padmasambhava. The festival primarily focuses on the connections between families and communities. It is an annual festival that is celebrated in the month of July, which follows the Tibetan lunar calendar. It is a four-day-long festival that helps bring the communities together, as every thirteen years, it is the duty of three families to provide food and beverages for the village during the celebrations.

In the end, these festivals are the pillars for the sustenance of the Sherpa communities, as they bring all the villages together to celebrate happiness and peace.

How do I get to Tengboche Monastery?

Tengboche Monastery Trekking is quite popular among trekkers, especially for those who wish to dive deep into Buddhism or are interested in celebrations of Sherpa cultures. This is why it is pretty common for people to book the trek just around the times of festivals like Mani Rimdu, Loshar, and Dumji. The trek to the Tengboche Monastery begins just like any other trekking destination to Everest, with a thrilling flight to Lukla. Then, your destination follows the classic Everest Base Camp route via Phakding and Namche Bazaar, and finally, you will reach Tengboche. It can be anywhere from 5 to 6 days of trekking, where you can enjoy the crisp air of the Khumbu.

As the trail runs through Sagarmatha National Park, you will require three permits: Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS), Pasang Lhamu Municipality Fee, and Sagarmatha National Park Fee. The trek to the Tengboche Monastery will definitely be a spiritual and natural experience.

The path is mostly uphill as you trek through the alpine forest of rhododendrons along the side of the Dudhkoshi River. Upon your arrival, you will see a gate of entry and a grassy field. Then, you will finally see the monastery building, surrounded by beautiful peaks, most notably Ama Dablam.

What is the best time to visit the Tengboche Monastery?

Speaking of weather, the best time to visit falls during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September–November). During this time, the temperature is moderate, and the weather is nice, so you can see every mountain under the clear azure sky.

Luckily, the Mani Rimdu festival falls in October as well. Winter (December–February) is also the perfect time, as the weather is very clear, but it will be exceptionally cold. It will also be less crowded during the winter, so if you are well prepared to battle the freezing temperatures, you will have the best time. However, during the summer, it can be a bit tricky. The Khumbu region is very prone to rainfall, which can be a hindrance during the trek, especially with landslides occurring frequently, and poses a risk.

However, the mountain weather is always very tricky and is prone to frequent changes. Therefore, no matter which season, it is recommended that you follow a credible weather source before embarking on your treks or expeditions.

Things to take into account while visiting the Tengboche Monastery

Before anything else, one must know what this sacred site entails. Maintaining peace and respect while you visit is the top priority. Here is a list of things to follow during your visit to the Tengboche Monastery:

Dress modestly; people dressed in revealing clothes are not allowed inside the monastery.

Do not make noise or talk loudly on the premises of the monastery.

Make rounds of the monastery in a clockwise manner.

Greet and show proper respect to the monks.

Do not touch the monks, as physically touching the monks is forbidden.

Do not take photos or videos in the restricted zones of the monastery.

Know the proper stance when praying.

Pay respects by burning butter candles and incense.

A deep dive into the local lifestyle

The Sherpa communities have one of the most unique cultures in Nepal. With beautiful cultural dresses worn especially by the ladies and delicious Sherpa cuisine, you will have the time of your life during this trek. Especially during the festivals, you will come to witness vibrant, joy-filled interactions. Foods such as potatoes, yak cheese, dal bhat (rice and lentils), tsampa (barley flour), dhido, momo, thukpa, khapse, thenduk, and other delicious varieties are the highlights of this trip.

You will get a close-up look into the daily Sherpa activities such as morning prayers, preparing food, doing household chores, looking after their agriculture or animals, etc. Their simple lifestyle will bring you a sense of peace and yearning.

In conclusion

The trek to Tengboche is filled with rich natural and cultural influences that enhance your spiritual awakening. It is a short trek that will allow you to get the full experience of the ways of Buddhism as well as see the tallest mountain of the world, Mt. Everest, as well as other surrounding peaks such as Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Lhotse, etc.

So, if you are planning a trek to Tengboche Monastery, let us be at your service. We will arrange everything for you, from accommodation to transportation, with local and experienced guides. We guarantee you the best time with impeccable services.

For hassle-free and memorable trek experiences in Nepal, book your treks and tours with Alpine Ramble Treks. Contact us at 977-9851175531 or email info@alpinerambleg.com to make your trekking and expedition bookings for 2024/2025.

[kudzucataclysm]

you know what actually i WILL talk about the shitty movie that is 2012- different from TDAT cuz it’s just- it’s just not based on anything at all ig…

the NEUTRINO SOLAR FLARES HEATING EARTHS CORE? WH A T

THE SNOWING IN FUCKING INDIA

the building of the arks. what does that have to do with the fucking solar flares tbfh

the stepdad who is both a pilot and a plastic surgeon for the girlfriend of a russian billionaire

woody harrelson as that weirdo at yellowstone eating pickles in the woods

THE SAN ADREAS EARTTHQUAKE THAT THE MAIN FAMILY FUCKING DRIVES THROUGH??? AND THE MOLTEN LAVA THATS SEEN WHEN THE EARTH CRACKS OPEN LIKE WTF

once again. they drove through a fucking earthquake 😭

the yellowstone caldera eruption. that entire family should’ve been dead instantly from the blast wave alone

THEY FLEW THE PLANE AWAY FROM THE ERUPTION???????? OUT OF THE SOOT CLOUD???

i still have no idea why the arks were the first things to be thought of tbh. also it’s a billion dollars per ticket this shit would’ve been leaked online

they hijacked a cargo plane and flew it to the himalayas. everyone getting swallowed up by the yellowstone ash cloud immediately after?????

they used a BENTLEYYYY TO ESCAPE A PLANE CRASH……

THE TSUNAMI???? AND THE FLOOD GETTING UP TO 27,000 FEET ABOVE SEA LEVEL DONT FUCKING TOUCH ME there is not enough fucking water on earth where did this water come from oh my god

27 days later the water starts receding. and the divorced couple gets back together ofc right after the stepdad dies i can���t

i cant stand 2012 tbh- like in comparison to day after its just sooooooooooooo stupid it just ends up pissing me off if i think about it too much. they shouldn’t have had scientists or any scientific basis in the movie tbh

[kriyayogaguru]

When l was a child, l wrote a letter to God. I was so little l could hardly write, but l thought l told Him a great deal. I did not ask anything for myself. I asked to be told something about Himself. Everyday l waited for the postman to bring me the answer to my letter, never doubting that it would come. And one day it did come. He came to me in a vision. I saw the answer of God written in letters of shining gold. I could scarcely read, but the meaning came to me. He said: "I am Life! I am Love! I am looking after you through your father and mother!" Then l understood. I felt God! If through sincerity and unconditional devotion your prayers reach God, it matters not if your sins be deeper than the ocean and higher than the Himalayas. He will destroy those karmic obstacles. For a time, perhaps, you may sink under a stratum of darkness; but still you are a spark of an Eternal Flame. You can hide the spark, but you can never destroy it. Ask Him to reveal Himself to you. Do not rest until He answers. Ask with all your heart, again and again: Reveal Thyself! Reveal Thyself! The stars may be shattered, the earth may be dissolved, yet my soul shall cry unto Thee, 'Reveal Thyself! The inertia of His silence will be broken by the steady, persistent hammering of your prayers. At last, like the invisible earthquake, He will suddenly make Himself manifest. The walls of silence holding back the reservoir of your consciousness will tremble and crumble, and you will feel that you are flowing like a river into the Mighty Ocean, and you will say to Him: "I am now one with Thee; whatever Thou hast, the same have l." You will be consciously face to face with your Self at last. The auditorium of your mind will be crowded to overflowing with the holy guests of your own divine thoughts. Beggars of grief and discord and pain will not be able to enter there, and their wails and sighs will be drowned in the harmony of an ever-singing and never-weary choir of happiness and peace. ~ Sri Paramahansa Yogananda ,The Divine Romance @ramana.maharshi_self.enquiry #yogananda #letter #god #kriyayogaguru #kriya #selfrealization #meditation https://www.instagram.com/p/CpoNZaWShgb/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[akgudiyal]

How Uttarakhand Villages Rebuilt After Natural Disasters

Uttarakhand, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, spiritual significance, and rich biodiversity. However, this picturesque state in northern India has also faced numerous natural disasters, including floods, landslides, and earthquakes. The 2013 Kedarnath floods and other catastrophic events left a trail of devastation, impacting villages, infrastructure, and livelihoods. Despite these challenges, Uttarakhand’s resilient communities have demonstrated incredible strength and determination in rebuilding their lives. This article explores how Uttarakhand villages have risen from the rubble, blending traditional wisdom with modern solutions to create sustainable futures.......READ MORE

[oliver-backman]

Langtang Valley Trek: A Journey to Nepal’s Serene Heart

Nestled in the Himalayas, the Langtang Valley Trek is a delightful escape into a region rich with natural beauty and cultural heritage. This stunning trek offers a balance of adventure, serene landscapes, and authentic cultural encounters, making it one of Nepal’s most cherished trekking routes. Let me share the highlights of this unforgettable journey.

The Beginning: An Enchanting Approach

The trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi, a bustling village and the starting point of the Langtang Valley adventure. The road winds through hills, terraced fields, and small towns, providing a glimpse of Nepal’s diverse countryside. As you step onto the trail, you’re welcomed by lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and the gentle roar of the Langtang River.

The initial days of trekking lead through dense rhododendron and oak forests, alive with the chirping of birds and the occasional rustle of wildlife. Crossing suspension bridges and climbing stone stairways, the journey feels like stepping into a hidden world where nature reigns supreme.

Immersing in Local Culture

The Langtang region is home to the Tamang community, whose rich traditions and welcoming spirit define the trek. Villages like Lama Hotel and Langtang offer a chance to interact with locals, taste traditional dishes, and learn about their way of life. The Tamang people’s hospitality is heartwarming, with friendly smiles and stories shared over steaming bowls of dal bhat.

A visit to Kyanjin Gompa, a sacred monastery, is a cultural highlight. Perched amidst the mountains, this spiritual haven exudes tranquility. The prayer wheels, colorful flags, and ancient structures offer insight into the region’s Tibetan Buddhist roots. It’s a peaceful pause in the midst of the adventure.

Reaching the Heart of Langtang

As you ascend further into the valley, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic. Snow-capped peaks like Langtang Lirung rise majestically, framing the valley with their grandeur. The meadows, dotted with grazing yaks and wildflowers, create a picture-perfect landscape.

The trek to Kyanjin Ri, a popular viewpoint, is a must for those seeking panoramic vistas. From the summit, the views of the Langtang range, glaciers, and the surrounding Himalayan giants are breathtaking. It’s a moment of pure awe, where the beauty of nature feels almost overwhelming.

A Trek of Resilience and Beauty

The Langtang Valley holds a poignant story of resilience. The region was heavily affected by the 2015 earthquake, yet the community’s determination to rebuild has brought new life to the area. Trekking here feels like being part of that revival, with every step contributing to the local economy and the spirit of the people.

The Return: A Journey Transformed

The return journey retraces your steps through the valley, offering a chance to savor the landscapes anew. The trek back feels different, enriched by the connections made and the memories created along the way. Each village, river crossing, and mountain view holds a special significance as you descend toward Syabrubesi.

Why Choose the Langtang Valley Trek?

The Langtang Valley Trek is perfect for those seeking a combination of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and moderate adventure. Its accessibility from Kathmandu and relatively short duration make it ideal for trekkers with limited time. The stunning views, welcoming communities, and peaceful trails ensure an experience that’s both rewarding and unforgettable.

If you’re dreaming of a trek that blends serenity with splendor, the Langtang Valley awaits. Lace up your boots, pack your bags, and prepare to be captivated by one of Nepal’s most enchanting destinations.

[himalayanarchitectureandplanning]

Global Visions, Local Disconnects: ‘Starchitects’ in the Himalayas

Nepal, a country with a rich architectural heritage, has long inspired architects worldwide. From the ornate palaces of the Malla dynasty to intricate temple designs, the country reflects a balance between aesthetics and practicality. However, questions arise about the harmony between international visions and local traditions as global icons of architecture attempt to leave their mark on Nepal. The Indian Himalayas, much like their Nepali sister, are an architectural enigma. At HAP, Bhimtal, we believe that while global attention gravitates toward high-profile "starchitects" reshaping urban skylines worldwide, the delicate balance of the Himalayan region—its culture, environment, and identity—requires a distinct approach.

Recent articles by Himal Southasian and Nepali Times have sparked a discussion on the works of globally acclaimed architects—Tadao Ando, Rem Koolhaas, and Shigeru Ban—in Nepal. While these ‘starchitects’ are celebrated, their projects in Nepal have drawn mainly criticism. The articles also question the readiness by the Nepali public at large, to recognize great contemporary architecture, in this case a building by Louis I.Kahn in Kathmandu.

Vernacular Wisdom: A Foundation for Sustainable Design

The traditional architecture of the Himalayas, from the Nepali Newar to the techniques of Koti Banal and Kathkuni of the Indian Himalayas, reflects a profound ecological and cultural wisdom. These time-honored structures embody sustainability principles, skillful usage of local materials, taking in account climate and customs, creating designs that harmonize seamlessly with the Himalayan cultural landscapes.

However, many traditional practices are presently completely overshadowed by reinforced cement concrete (RCC) structures with brick infill. Cold Formed Steel (CFS) and cement boards are also getting popular. While functional, pure modern technique buildings often lack the internal comfort, environmental sensitivity (heaters and AC-s are needed) and the cultural depth of vernacular designs. As Professor Anne Feenstra notes, "Vernacular knowledge is not to be copied, but to be inspired from."

The Starchitect Paradox

The arrival of several starchitects in Nepal brought excitement. But while their design intentions are innovative, they also lack an understanding of the disconnected from the Himalayan wisdom. These projects often appear as adaptations of global portfolios rather than bespoke responses to Nepal’s, or Uttarakhand’s unique needs.

Tadao Ando’s minimalist exposed concrete style, contrasting with nature, seemed a very interesting opportunity for Nepal’s landscape. However, his hospital design did not redefine modern Nepali architecture at all. Rem Koolhaas's oeuvre of groundbreaking architectural interventions has struggled to provide a clear direction for Nepal's contemporary architectural ambitions. Shigeru Ban, known for his sustainable material projects, also fell short in creating meaningful and useful works in the post 2015 earthquake scenario of Nepal’s reconstruction. In the two articles, the works of these architects have been questioned and criticized. 

We at HAP would argue that perhaps in the Himalayan setting, they all miss the "slow architecture" ethos—an approach that embraces time, local engagement, and a deep understanding of place. This critique underscores the delicate balance between global innovation and contextual relevance.

The articles describe that Louis I. Kahn, the modernist giant, was perhaps the unluckiest of the four. Despite his visionary design for a Public Health ministry building, it was based on an approach which embraced time, local engagement, and a deeper understanding of place. While the building in Kathmandu was under construction, Kahn tragically passed away. 

Contemporary Himalayan Architecture experiments

Attempts in Nepal fail often to resonate with the region's socio-environmental reality. Similarly, in the Indian Himalayas, global architectural philosophies must evolve to account for local topographies, climatic sensitivities, and cultural underpinnings. India's Himalayan region has long served as a crucible for architectural experimentation—whether through colonial-era hill stations like Shimla or contemporary projects such as the Dalai Lama's temple in Dharamshala. 

In the field of architecture, Nepal and Uttarakhand find themselves at a pivotal juncture. As these regions embrace modernization, they risk losing touch with their architectural heritage and the influx of modern architecture into these ecologically fragile zones raises pressing questions about sustainability, cultural preservation, and local engagement. 

At HAP we do try to follow a methodology where contemporary designs can honor traditional principles while addressing modern needs. Our design (HAP and SMA) of the  Snow Leopard Conservation Center (under construction) incorporates local materials, local skills and eco-sensitive practices (passive solar energy, double glazing etc.) ensuring harmony with the ecosystem. We are using local Deodar timber, stone and mud mortar. Similarly for the just completed Fiddleheads Farm in Kumaon, we reimagined vernacular techniques for the ‘food-practitioners laboratory’ cum mountain lodge, thus making inroads for sustainable farming and eco-sensitive tourism, creating a novel innovative typology.

Architecture at a Crossroads

As the South Asian nations embrace modernity, they risk losing touch with its rich traditions. Yet, there is potential for a harmonious blend of both. The global expertise of inspiring and innovative architects can act as a catalyst for innovation while drawing inspiration from the enormous diversity of the architectural roots all over the Himalayas.

The critical review of the four starchitects works in Nepal, serve as a reminder of the subjectivity of architecture and the necessity of designing with sensitivity to the local context. By combining contemporary techniques with vernacular principles, Nepal can create a future where architecture honors its past and embraces modernity.

The question for us at HAP remains: How can Himalayan architecture evolve to reflect global aspirations while staying grounded in its cultural and environmental context? The answer lies not in imitation, but in inspiration—drawing from the wealth of local knowledge and reimagining it for a modern world.

[merapitimes]

Strong earthquake in Tibet kills 126, leaves thousands homeless

A magnitude 6.8 earthquake devastates Tibet, killing 126, flattening homes, and displacing thousands amid freezing temperatures.

Damaged houses are seen in a village in Shigatse, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, following an earthquake. Photo by Xinhua via Reuters A devastating earthquake struck the foothills of the Himalayas near Tibet’s sacred city of Shigatse on Tuesday, claiming at least 126 lives and leaving thousands homeless. Chinese authorities confirmed that the magnitude 6.8 quake flattened homes, displaced…

[bloggergaurang]

Devastating 7.1 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Tibet, Leaves 100 Dead and Widespread Destruction

The powerful Earthquake measured 7.1 on the Richter scale and shook Tibet on Tuesday, killing at least 100 people and leaving a long trail of destruction. More than 1,000 buildings were reported to be damaged or completely destroyed in Tingri County, where the earthquake was reported. Tremors were also felt in neighboring Nepal and parts of northern India.

CCTV, the state broadcaster, showed scenes of devastation: houses flattened, streets littered with debris, and walls brought down as a result of the shaking. The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) recorded the earthquake at 6:35 am, followed shortly by two aftershocks at 7:02 am and 7:07 am, with magnitudes of 4.7 and 4.9, respectively. The U.S. Geological Survey estimated the quake’s depth at 10 kilometers, while Chinese authorities reported the magnitude as 6.8. The epicenter was pinpointed about 75 kilometers northeast of Mount Everest in the high-altitude Dingri County, which houses a population of 62,000.

Injuries were confirmed by Chinese state media to be up to 62 in addition to general destruction all around Tingri County. “It is the strongest quake in the 200 km radius within the past five years,” said the China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC). Social media from neighbouring Lhatse County displayed photos of damaged shopfronts, roofs crushed, and vehicles under rubble with streets littered with debris.

This earthquake is the result of the collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates that produces earthquakes and raises the Himalayas. Much like the earthquake on 25 April 2015, which rocked Nepal and had a magnitude of 7.8, this also produced grievous mortality, where casualty figures reach almost 9000 and maximum devastation is recorded across the region.

Bhutan, Sikkim, and Uttarakhand claimed to have felt the tremors. So far, no casualties or damages in India have been reported. Authorities in the affected areas continue to stay on alert as rescue operations go on in Tibet.

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[amblehimalayan]

Langtang Valley Trek: A Journey to the Heart of the Himalayas

One of Nepal's most stunning and approachable trekking routes is the Langtang Valley Trek, which offers stunning mountain vistas, a thriving cultural scene, and an abundance of wildlife. Known as the "Valley of Glaciers," Langtang is a region in the Langtang National Park that is north of Kathmandu, close to the Tibetan border. For those seeking a modest adventure with breathtaking landscape and a rich cultural experience, this walk is perfect.

The scenic landscapes of the Langtang Valley Trek's highlights include: From verdant forests and alpine meadows to glacial rivers and majestic snow-capped summits, the walk provides a variety of vistas. Trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking views of Langtang Lirung (7,227 meters) and other magnificent peaks along the way.

Rich Culture: The Tamang and Sherpa communities, who have maintained their traditional way of life, reside in the Langtang region. The walk gains a distinctive cultural dimension from their old monasteries, vibrant prayer flags, and kind hospitality.

Wildlife and Flora: Wildlife can be found in abundance in Langtang National Park. Red pandas, Himalayan tahrs, and other bird species can be seen by trekkers. The park is renowned for its varied vegetation, which includes bamboo forests and rhododendron.

Kyanjin Gompa and Langtang Glacier: Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and providing breathtaking vistas, the walk ends at the charming settlement of Kyanjin Gompa. From here, you can ascend Tserko Ri (4,984 meters) for a broad perspective of the Himalayas or make detours to Langtang Glacier.

The Path of Trekking Driving from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi, the entrance to Langtang, is usually the first step in the Langtang Valley Trek. Through quaint communities like Lama Hotel, Ghodatabela, and Langtang Village—which is still recovering from the 2015 earthquake—the trail progressively climbs. Before returning to Syabrubesi, the journey reaches its highest point at Kyanjin Gompa.

Trek Length and Challenge Depending on your schedule and pace, the Langtang Valley Trek typically takes 7–10 days to finish. It is regarded as a moderate trip that is appropriate for hikers who are adventurous and have a basic level of fitness. Even though the elevation is lower than on other Himalayan treks, it is still crucial to properly acclimate.

The Ideal Time to Go Trekking The Langtang Valley Trek is most enjoyable in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) seasons. The walk is particularly gorgeous during these times of year because of the open skies, pleasant temperatures, and springtime rhododendron blooms.

Why Pick the Trek in the Langtang Valley? For those looking for a combination of mild difficulty, cultural diversity, and scenic beauty, the Langtang Valley Trek is ideal. Despite being one of the most accessible trekking locations due to its close proximity to Kathmandu, it provides a feeling of seclusion and peace. The Langtang Valley Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, thanks to the breathtaking Himalayan views and the welcoming local culture.