TRAVERSE 15
1980s due mostly to its diversity of environments that surround the Shivalik Hills and the flood plains of the Narayani , Rapti , and Reu rivers . This diverse landscape is home to numerous unique species that include one horned rhinoceros and Bengal tigers . From the roadside a sighting is seldom yet venture deep into the jungle with a guided safari and you are guaranteed a glimpse , if only fleeting .
The peoples of this region are also unique , with their own cultures , beliefs , and traditions . Many lodges provide an insight into people that are neither Indian nor Nepali , having their own histories that go back well beyond the creation of the modern nations . One such lodge is the Tharu Community Lodge where a few nights stay will see the traveller drawn into a village lifestyle where community is important , and the environment is much more than a sustainer of life . It ’ s an experience like no other .
Turn off the H01 before the city of Butwal and you ’ ll find a similar heaving collection of humanity in the city of Siddharthanagar . More Indian in feel than Nepali it matters little as this is an opportunity to try something different , the people are friendly and welcoming , yet know their home is little more than a passing point on the road to a culturally rich experience and one of significant importance to the Buddhist faithful .
Lumbini is regarded as one of the most important in the life of a Buddhist ,
TRAVERSE 15