Event Information

On this page, you'll find information on the times, places and activities of the Universal Peace Gathering.

Times

The Universal Peace Gathering spans across the entire year of 2010, starting on January 1st. Events of various kinds will be taking place throughout the year. The exact schedule will be finalized in the course of 2009.

Activities

The 2010 Gathering features a grand scale of cultural, environmental and spiritual happenings. Some of the ongoing themes are:

• Cultural Exchange
  Nepal is a country of 103 unique ethnic groups. The world has thousands of unique cultures. Let’s all meet together!
• Music
  Music is the heart of expression. For exchange to be complete, we must connect with our outflowing hearts. Bring your instruments along!
• Meditation and Yoga
  Ancient techniques and modern methods, a diversity of ways suited for diverse individuals. Come seek serenity with experienced teachers!
• Environment
  Care and respect for Mother Nature! We collect garbage, we plant trees, we recycle and compost, we educate people on sound environmental values...
• Peace March
  Let’s all walk together for peace! Peace is not an option, peace is a vital necessity. We need to show ourselves and make a statement for peace.
• Shanti Pooja
  The essence of religion is one. All of humanity must meet together under the banner of universal religion to share the goodness of their spiritual disciplines.

Expect to see more detailed festival information and curriculums in the course of 2009!

Places

Nepal is a country with diverse topography and equally diverse environments, offering a rich field to explore and to relax at. The following seven are the main locations, chosen from over a hundred charted areas.

Pokhara

A scenic site 200 km west of Kathmandu, Pokhara is believed to have been the capital of the Mallas, the old rulers of Nepal. At an altitude of 884 meters and the rainiest city of Nepal, its climate is mild all year around.

Dhulikhel

A cradle of Newari culture, Dhulikhel lies only 30 km east of Kathmandu. A haven of exquisite landscapes, it offers many cultural and natural wonders to explore. It is also a base for visiting several other locations of interest.

Namche

At an altitude of 3386 meters, Namche is surrounded by mountains and icy caps. A working town, it is also an important center of Nepal’s Sherpa culture. Several monasteries are based in the area.

Nagarkot

Located 32 km east of Kathmandu, Nagarkot is one of the most scenic areas in the Bhaktapur district. At an altitude of 2048 meters, it offers an exquisite view of the Himalayas and many trekking routes, easy and challenging alike.

Chitwan

In central Nepal, Chitwan is famous for the Tharu culture and its natural beauty. At a low altitude, its summer offers refuge from the winter’s cold at the mountain regions of Nepal. It also hosts one of Asia’s finest national parks.

Lumbini

Close to the Indian border in South-West Nepal, Lumbini is celebrated as the birthplace of the Buddha. This serene site is an important centre of pilgrimage and a host for more than a dozen gorgeous monasteries.

Daman

Located 78 km south of Kathmandu, Daman is a home for many of the tribes of Nepal. It is an excellent place for a panoramic view of the Himalayas – ranging from Dhaulagiri all the way to Mt. Everest.