Nepal
After returning from a volunteer assignment in Western Nepal, Michelle was determined to find ways to continue to help the people she met during her travels. Our projects are based in the areas she spent most of her time.
Nepal
A country filled with promise and longing. A land of wide smiles and laughter, majestic lakes and breathtaking peaks. A place home to people who work hard and care for their neighbors --- men and women looking to advance while respecting their treasured heritage.
Landlocked between China, Tibet, and India, Nepal houses a dizzying blend of religions and cultures. Income levels greatly vary, and many Nepalis leave the country in search of higher wages. Once regarded as one of the poorest countries in the world, Nepal continues to make strides in education and progress.
“We live in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm and adventure. There is no end to the adventures we can have if only we seek them with our eyes open.”
Pokhara
Nestled at the base of the Annapurna Mountain range, Pokhara is the third largest city in Nepal. Tourists marvel at Lake Fewa and the World Peace Pagoda before starting treks through the region. The Seti River divides the town, creating notable gorges and deep terraces visible from city bridges. A handful of Tibetan settlements and many Hindu temples dot the district. Wealthy military families retire, while other individuals struggle to pay rent in the affluent area.
Matepani Gumba
Known as Karma Dupgyud Choekhorling Manang Monastery, the Matepani Gumba rests on a hilltop jungle on the outskirts of Pokhara. Established in 1960 by the Manang community, the monastery holds about seventy monks from a variety of backgrounds and economic class. Monks as young as five years old study Tibetan, English, Nepali and Math, in addition to practicing puja and reading ancient Buddhist script. Some monks dedicate their lives to religious practice; others leave the monastery to pursue business or other opportunities.
Kagyu Buddhism
Matepani Gumba follows the Kagyu tradition, a form of Tibetan Buddhism. Karmapa is recognized as guru, and daily puja prayer ceremonies honor the goddess Tara and god Mahakala. The Tibetan calendar, based largely on the lunar cycle, dictates the timing and performance of the rituals and practices associated with Kagyu Buddhism. Members of the local community, predominately Gurung and Manang tribes, participate and host puja for important events such as weddings and birthdays.
