Cultural heritage

Culturally, Nepal is among the most diversified countries in the world. A visible indicator is the spoken language carrying indigenous knowledge on natural resources and life styles. According to the summer institute of linguistics, there are 125 languages spoken in Nepal of which one has become extinct.
IUCN, Nepal and Nepal Heritage society have documented 1,254 heritage sites in 72 districts outside the Kathmandu valley. According to the 1975 survey, the kathmandu valley holds 888 heritage sites of global significance. Apart from these, there are numerous temples and monuments in the valley.
Recognizing the spectacular natural heritage and refined cultural heritage of Nepal, UNESCO has listed ten spots in Nepal as the world Heritage sites, two natural and eight cultural. The two natural sites are the Sagarmatha National park listed in 1979 and the Royal chitwan National park listed in 1984.The seven monumental zones of the Kathmandu valley were recognized as the cultural world Heritage sites in 1979. They are pashupatinath, Swoyambhunath, Boudhanath, Changu Narayan temple complexes and the three historical palaces of bhaktapur, Lalitpur and Kathmandu cities. In fact, the kathmandu valley with towns and settlements spread over the fertile alluvial lands irrigated by the perennial springs and streams and surrounded by the woody Hills form the integral parts of the heritage sites.With towns capes and temple skylines, live cultural activities like festivals and ceremonies are part of every day and night. Intricate arts and agricultural practices, language and literature enriched through ages and generations are ingredients of a living heritage. A striking characteristic of the valley communities is a harmony and tolerance between two major religious faiths, Hinduism and Buddhism.
Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, has also been included in the world Heritage sites. Lumbini is a living example of human civilization that established the philosophy of peace and harmony not only among humankind but also with the nature. It also offers nesting ground for the endangered species like saras crane.