Good Reads on Nepal
Beyond Possible by Nimsdai Purja
ISBN: 978-9937-9341-4
I start this list with the book of a former soldier who had a dream. He wished to defy odds and accomplish a task labelled impossible. I had the honour of meeting Nirmal 'NIMS' Purja during the introductory press event for his mission. At the end of which, I was rendered speechless. 14 mountains towering 8000 metres awaited a man who wished to summit them in 7 months.
On the 29th of September 2019, with the successful ascent of Shishapangma in Tibet, the world fell silent. 14 peaks submitted in six months, six days. The book is a collection of his thoughts, vision, experience and reality. It takes the reader laced in the shoes of Purja atop the death zones where life hangs by a thread. It instils upon you the importance of hope, hard work and dedication along with the beauty of mother nature.
The rest, I leave for you to discover.
Mustang by Michael Peissel
ISBN: 7088-1589-8
This book takes you back in time to a glorious kingdom in the north-western region of Nepal. The author led an expedition for fifteen days from Kathmandu to this mystical ground in the mid-twentieth century.
His experiences have been compiled in this book. Even today, it is good to guide you through the regions unique heritage. Within the walls of Lo Mantang, he witnessed an ancient world. The regions culture, history, traditions and settings are well documented in this book.
Yak Girl by Dorje Dolma
ISBN: 978-93-5076-186-1
Yak Girl is a memoir of Dorje Dolma who's parents summoned all the courage to embark on a month-long trek from Dolpa to Kathmandu. Their daughter, age 10, was suffering from a life-threatening condition.
Where there is a will, there is a way.
The path for Dolma is through the mystic lands of Dolpa, one of the most isolated places in Nepal. Even today, this region is referred to as the 'Virgin lands of Nepal.' Her memoir allows you to discover Dolpa in the 80's and her journey spanning continents to save her life.
The Newar Merchants in Lhasa by Keshar Lall
ISBN: 99933-0-187-6
The Newars, an ethnic group native to the Kathmandu valley, gained a stout reputation as merchants in medieval times. Their ability, courage, strength and wit enabled them to dominate the tributaries of the ancient silk route above central Nepal.
Every adventure is a glorious tale in the making. This book by Keshar Lall complies the untold accounts of these daring men across the great Himalayas. The author's ability to mute his voice during the translation is utterly remarkable.
This quick read takes you on a journey with these men through the high mountain passes and into the heart of Lhasa in Tibet.
Kathmandu by Thomas Bell
ISBN: 978-81-8400-578-3
No book to date has been able to compile the history of Nepal like Kathmandu by Thomas Bell. The author takes a structural approach to building the foundations of this country based on selected readings and experiences. He adds to it his personal encounters, which gives this book a unique touch.
The author came to Nepal on an assignment to cover the civil war. Who knew he would find a fit here and settle down. This book is highly recommended for those who wish to gain a good understanding of Nepal's settings.
Taste of Nepal by Jyoti Patak
ISBN-13: 978-81-8363-085-6
A land of rich culture equals a land of diverse cuisine. Nepal is home to not just its exclusive taste. It is also a Shangri-la where aromas and delights of the Indian sub-continent meet. This prize-winning book is one of few cookbooks on Nepalese cuisine available in the market.
Cultural discovery does not always mean a trip through narrow gullies and high mountains of Nepal. A plate of food is more than just its ingredients. It is the gateway to learning about the regions topography, history, culture, technique and taste.
The author brings you more than 350 authentic recipes. It is a road down memory lane and straight to the kitchen.