People and Culture - Nepal - page 51

Tengboche are the common gathering place where local Sher-
pas celebrate festivals, such as Dumje and Mani Rimdu. Their
traditional economy focused upon farming and livestock herd-
ing, as well as some trade. Since the 1950s, however, they have
become extensively involved in mountaineering expeditions
and other aspects of the regional tourist industry.
The Hill Region
The hill region's mild climate makes it the most comfortable
place to live in Nepal. The south-facing slopes and lower val-
ley floor, in particular, are extensively farmed and support an
easy lifestyle. Distinct ethnic minorities still can be found in
different parts of the hill region, including the Kirati, Newar,
Gurungs, Magars, Brahmin, and Chhettri.
The Kiratis are of Tibeto-Burmese descent and are distinc-
tive because of their Mongoloid physical features. Though
their traditional religion is considered to be different, they still
worship Lord Shiva and follow Hinduism. Kiratis, who ruled
Nepal in about the seventh century, migrated to the eastern
hill region from the Kathmandu Valley. Kiratis are well-known
Himalayan warriors; they are the world-renowned soldiers who
filled the British Gorkha regiments. The curve-bladed khukuri ,
or “Gorkha knife,” is the most important Gorkha weapon.
Although it has less value in today's world of automatic weap-
ons and nuclear power, the Nepalese and Gorkha armies keep
it as a symbol of bravery. The khukuri also is an important ele-
ment of Nepalese national dress.
Newars occupy the Kathmandu Valley and are descendants
of its original rulers. Their origin and history remain a mystery,
although physically they appear to be a blend of Kiratis and
Caucasians. The Newari language is very complex and difficult
to learn, and it is distinct from any other languages spoken in
the country. Furthermore, Newari culture is quite complex and
distinctive. It includes a number of customs not found elsewhere