All questions of Kathmandu for Grade 9 Exam

The answer is d

He planned to fly by Nepal Airlines from Kathmandu to Delhi.

Atmosphere near the Pashupatinath temple

The Pashupatinath temple, located in Kathmandu, Nepal, is one of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is considered a significant pilgrimage site and attracts thousands of devotees and tourists every year. The atmosphere near the Pashupatinath temple can be described as febrile confusion.

Febrile Confusion:
Febrile confusion refers to a situation characterized by a state of restlessness, excitement, and chaos. This atmosphere can be observed near the Pashupatinath temple due to several factors:

1. Large Crowd:
The Pashupatinath temple is visited by a significant number of devotees and tourists, especially during festivals and auspicious occasions. The temple complex can become overcrowded, leading to a sense of chaos and confusion as people jostle to get closer to the main temple or perform religious rituals.

2. Varied Activities:
The temple complex is not only a religious site but also a hub of various activities. It serves as a place for religious ceremonies, cremation rituals, and cultural events. These activities happening simultaneously can create a sense of confusion and restlessness in the atmosphere.

3. Ritual Performances:
The temple complex is often bustling with various religious rituals performed by priests and devotees. These rituals involve chanting of mantras, offering prayers, and conducting unique ceremonies. The sounds of bells, drum beats, and hymns can add to the overall chaotic atmosphere.

4. Presence of Vendors:
The vicinity of the temple is occupied by numerous vendors selling religious items, souvenirs, and food. Their shouts and calls to attract customers, combined with the constant movement of people, can contribute to the febrile confusion in the surroundings.

5. Cultural Diversity:
The Pashupatinath temple attracts devotees not only from Nepal but also from various parts of India and other countries. The diverse mix of cultures, languages, and traditions can further contribute to the atmosphere of confusion and restlessness as people navigate through the crowds and communicate with each other.

In conclusion, the atmosphere near the Pashupatinath temple is characterized by febrile confusion due to the large crowd, varied activities, ritual performances, presence of vendors, and cultural diversity. This vibrant and bustling environment adds to the overall charm and significance of the temple, making it a unique and memorable experience for visitors.

Introduction:
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is known for its unique blend of ancient traditions and modern development. The streets of Kathmandu are famous for their distinct characteristics, which make them both the narrowest and busiest streets in the country.

Narrowest Streets:
One of the prominent features of Kathmandu's streets is their narrowness. The streets in the city are often quite narrow, especially in the older parts of the city. These narrow streets are a result of the city's historical layout and the traditional architecture that characterized the area. The narrow streets add to the city's charm and give it a sense of antiquity. They also serve as a reminder of the city's rich cultural heritage.

Reasons for Narrowness:
The narrow streets of Kathmandu can be attributed to several factors:
1. Historical Layout: The city has a long history, and its streets were initially designed to accommodate foot traffic and horse-drawn carriages. The narrow streets were built to provide shade from the scorching sun and to protect against strong winds.
2. Limited Space: As the city grew, the available space for expansion became limited. The narrow streets were not widened due to the presence of historical buildings and temples along the roadsides. The city's topography, with hills and valleys, also restricted the expansion of the streets.
3. Cultural Significance: The narrow streets have cultural significance and are an integral part of the city's identity. They have witnessed centuries of history, and their preservation is important to maintain the city's heritage.

Busiest Streets:
In addition to being narrow, the streets of Kathmandu are also known for their bustling activity, making them the busiest streets in Nepal. The city is the economic and administrative hub of the country, attracting a large number of people from different parts of Nepal.

Reasons for Busyness:
Several factors contribute to the busyness of Kathmandu's streets:
1. Commercial Activity: The city is a major center for trade and commerce, resulting in a high volume of commercial activity. Many shops, markets, and businesses are located along the streets, attracting locals and tourists alike.
2. Transportation Hub: Kathmandu serves as a major transportation hub, connecting various parts of Nepal. The streets are filled with vehicles, including cars, motorbikes, buses, and rickshaws, contributing to the constant flow of traffic.
3. Tourist Attractions: The city is a popular tourist destination, with numerous historical sites, temples, and cultural landmarks. Visitors flock to these attractions, leading to increased foot traffic and congestion on the streets.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the streets of Kathmandu are both the narrowest and busiest streets in Nepal. The narrowness of the streets is a result of the city's historical layout, limited space, and cultural significance. The bustling activity on these streets is driven by the city's economic importance, transportation hub status, and tourist attractions. Despite the challenges posed by narrow streets and heavy traffic, the streets of Kathmandu continue to be an integral part of the city's charm and cultural heritage.

Introduction:
The Pashupatinath temple, located in Kathmandu, Nepal, is one of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It holds immense religious significance for Hindus around the world. The question asks about the entrance restrictions at the Pashupatinath temple, and the correct answer is option 'A' - Entrance is allowed only for Hindus.

Explanation:
The reason why entrance into the Pashupatinath temple is restricted only to Hindus is rooted in the religious beliefs and traditions associated with the temple. Below are the key points that explain this answer:

1. Religious Significance:
- Pashupatinath temple is considered one of the holiest pilgrimage sites for Hindus, attracting devotees from Nepal, India, and other countries.
- It is believed to be the dwelling place of Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities of Hinduism.
- Hindus consider it essential to receive blessings from Lord Shiva by visiting his sacred abode.

2. Preservation of Sanctity:
- The restriction of entrance to only Hindus helps preserve the sanctity and religious atmosphere of the temple.
- By limiting access to those who follow Hinduism, the temple ensures that the rituals, prayers, and customs associated with Lord Shiva are performed in accordance with Hindu traditions.
- This exclusivity also prevents any potential disruptions or disrespect to the religious practices within the temple premises.

3. Cultural and Ritual Practices:
- Hindu temples often have specific rituals, practices, and customs that are followed during worship.
- These practices are deeply rooted in Hindu religious traditions and may not be familiar or appropriate for non-Hindus.
- By restricting entrance to only Hindus, the temple authorities can ensure that these rituals are conducted as per the prescribed guidelines.

4. Respect for Hindu Beliefs:
- Restricting the entrance to Hindus also shows respect for the religious beliefs and sentiments of the Hindu community.
- The temple is a sacred space where devotees seek spiritual solace and connect with their faith.
- Allowing only Hindus to enter the temple helps create an environment where devotees can freely express their devotion without feeling inhibited or disrespected.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the entrance to the Pashupatinath temple is allowed only for Hindus. This restriction is in place to preserve the religious sanctity, cultural practices, and respect for Hindu beliefs associated with the temple. It ensures that the sacred rituals are performed in accordance with Hindu traditions and provides a dedicated space for Hindu devotees to connect with their faith.

The Significance of the Small Shrine on the Bagmati River Bank
The small shrine on the Bagmati river bank holds profound spiritual and cultural significance, particularly in the context of Hindu beliefs regarding the Kaliyug.
Understanding Kaliyug
- Kaliyug is the last of the four stages the world goes through as part of the cycle of Yugas in Hindu cosmology.
- It is often characterized by moral decline, chaos, and the prevalence of evil.
The Emergence of the Shrine
- When the small shrine emerges fully, it symbolizes a pivotal moment in the spiritual landscape.
- This event is often interpreted as a sign that divine intervention is imminent, which could potentially lead to the end of the Kaliyug.
Implications of Ending Kaliyug
- The end of this evil period is believed to herald a return to righteousness and moral values.
- It opens the possibility for a new era (Satya Yuga), characterized by peace, truth, and harmony.
Spiritual Awakening
- The emergence of the shrine can also signify a collective spiritual awakening among people.
- It encourages individuals to reflect on their values and actions, fostering a return to spirituality and ethical living.
Conclusion
In summary, the full emergence of the small shrine on the Bagmati river bank is seen as a powerful symbol of hope and transformation. It represents the potential end of the Kaliyug, paving the way for a new era filled with goodness and righteousness, thus making option 'A' the correct answer.

Overview of the Lesson 'Kathmandu'
The lesson 'Kathmandu' is a travelogue written by Vikram Seth, a renowned Indian poet and author. This piece is a reflection of his experiences and observations during his visit to the capital city of Nepal.
About Vikram Seth
- Vikram Seth is celebrated for his diverse literary works, including poetry, novels, and essays.
- He gained international acclaim for his poetry collection "Mappings" and the novel "A Suitable Boy."
Content of 'Kathmandu'
- The lesson describes the beauty and charm of Kathmandu, capturing the essence of its culture and landscape.
- Seth's vivid descriptions provide readers with a sense of place, evoking the sights, sounds, and smells of the city.
- The narrative explores the contrast between the ancient traditions and the modern realities of Kathmandu.
Significance of the Lesson
- 'Kathmandu' serves as a window into Nepal's rich heritage, showcasing its historical sites and cultural practices.
- The lesson also highlights the warmth and hospitality of the Nepali people, making it relatable and engaging for readers.
Conclusion
Vikram Seth's 'Kathmandu' is a beautifully crafted travel narrative that goes beyond mere description. It offers insights into the cultural fabric of Nepal, making it an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the region. Thus, the correct answer to the question is indeed option 'A', Vikram Seth.

The correct answer is option 'A': a sense of stillness.

Explanation:
Located in Kathmandu, Nepal, the Baudhanath Stupa is one of the largest stupas in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It holds great religious and cultural significance for Buddhists, as it is believed to contain the relics of Kassapa Buddha. The atmosphere around the Baudhanath Stupa is characterized by a sense of stillness.

1. Spiritual and Meditative Environment:
The Baudhanath Stupa is a place of worship and pilgrimage for Buddhists. People visit the stupa to offer prayers, spin prayer wheels, and walk around it in a clockwise direction, known as circumambulation. The peaceful and serene environment encourages visitors to engage in meditation and introspection.

2. Tranquil Surroundings:
The stupa is surrounded by a wide circular plaza known as the Boudha Mandala. This area is filled with monasteries, shops selling religious artifacts, and prayer wheels. The sound of prayers and chants can be heard, adding to the serene atmosphere. The large prayer flags fluttering in the wind create a sense of tranquility.

3. Devotional Practices:
Buddhists and visitors often light butter lamps and offer incense and flowers at the stupa, creating an ambiance of reverence and devotion. The scent of incense permeates the air, further enhancing the peaceful atmosphere.

4. Absence of Noise and Distractions:
In contrast to the bustling streets of Kathmandu, the vicinity of the Baudhanath Stupa offers respite from the noise and chaos. The area is relatively quieter, allowing individuals to find solace and focus on their spiritual practices.

5. Symbolic Significance:
The Baudhanath Stupa is a symbol of enlightenment and the Buddha's teachings. Its architecture and design reflect Buddhist cosmology and philosophy. The stupa's white dome, with its watchful eyes known as the "Buddha eyes," represents wisdom, compassion, and enlightenment. This symbolism adds to the sense of stillness and reverence in the atmosphere.

In conclusion, the Baudhanath Stupa exudes a sense of stillness, providing a serene and introspective environment for visitors. The combination of spiritual practices, tranquil surroundings, and symbolic significance creates an atmosphere conducive to meditation and devotion.

Introduction:
Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal and is home to numerous historical and religious sites. Two prominent temples in Kathmandu are the Pashupatinath temple and the Boudhanath temple. Both of these temples hold significant religious and cultural importance for the people of Nepal.

Pashupatinath Temple:
The Pashupatinath temple is one of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts thousands of devotees and tourists every year.

Boudhanath Temple:
The Boudhanath temple, also known as the Boudha Stupa, is one of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal. It is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site and is located in the eastern part of Kathmandu. The stupa is believed to house the relics of Kasyapa Buddha and serves as an important center for Tibetan Buddhism.

Both (A) and (B):
The correct answer to the question is option 'C' - both (A) and (B). Both the Pashupatinath temple and the Boudhanath temple are situated in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. These temples represent the rich religious and cultural heritage of Nepal and are major attractions for locals and tourists alike.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Pashupatinath temple and the Boudhanath temple are two prominent religious sites situated in Kathmandu, Nepal. Both these temples hold immense significance and are visited by people from all over the world.

Introduction:
The author finds himself unable to tear away from the square because of the sweet flute music being played there. The melody captivates him and he is engrossed in the enchanting tunes. This is the main reason that keeps the author hooked to the square.

Explanation:
The author's inability to tear away from the square is primarily due to the sweet flute music that he hears. The melodious tunes played by the flutist captivate his attention and create a mesmerizing atmosphere. The author is enchanted by the music and finds it difficult to leave the square because of its captivating effect.

The flute music creates a sense of joy and tranquility in the author's mind. It brings a peaceful ambience to the square and adds to its charm. The author is drawn towards the music and finds himself lost in its beauty. The sweet melodies evoke a sense of nostalgia and create a soothing atmosphere that the author finds irresistible.

The author's fascination with the flute music is also evident from the fact that he describes it as "sweet." The adjective used to describe the music indicates the author's admiration for its beauty and the impact it has on him. The sweetness of the music adds to its allure and makes it even more difficult for the author to tear himself away from the square.

In addition to the flute music, there are other factors mentioned in the options given. However, these factors do not hold as much significance as the music in captivating the author's attention. The other options like the availability of food, a magic show, or the author buying flutes may be appealing but do not have the same enchanting effect as the sweet flute music.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the author finds himself unable to tear away from the square because of the sweet flute music being played there. The melodious tunes create a captivating atmosphere that the author finds irresistible. The music brings a sense of joy and tranquility, making it difficult for the author to leave the enchanting square.