Tundikhel

Tudikhel or Tundikhel (Nepali: टुँडिखेल; Nepal Bhasa: 'Tinikhya', तिनिख्यः) is a large grass-covered ground in the center of Nepal's capital Kathmandu and one of its most important landmarks. The field is rectangular in shape and has a north-south orientation. It lies between Ratna Park in the north and Sahid Gate, the memorial dedicated to the martyrs of 1941, in the south. Tundikhel's history goes back to at least the early 18th century during the Malla period. It serves multiple purposes as a military parade ground, horse race track, spot for religious festivals, rock concert venue, public park and cattle grazing ground. Tundikhel has also been described as Kathmandu's lungs as the large field provides fresh air in the midst of the city congested with houses. The townspeople throng Tundikhel in the mornings and evenings to enjoy the breeze and exercise. During World Wars I and II, Gorkhali soldiers were assembled here before being shipped out to distant battlefields. A large tree stood at the center which was Tundikhel's symbol. Known as Khariko Bot or Chākalā Simā (Round Tree), it was used by Nepal's heads of state and government to make major proclamations. The tree and circular platform were removed in the mid-1960s. In 1960, a small aircraft even landed on the grass field. The Pilatus Porter was in Nepal to provide support to the Swiss expedition which made the first successful climb of Dhaulagiri in the Himalaya. Tundikhel is also steeped in folklore. Deities and demons are said to have walked here in mythological times. A number of religious festivals are held here, and many sacred shrines are located on the perimeter. Once extending 3–5 km in length from Rani Pokhari to Dasarath Rangasala Stadium, and almost 300 meters in width, it was reputed to be one of the largest parade grounds in Asia. Today, encroachment from all four sides to build various infrastructure has squeezed it to less than half its original size. Horse festival or Ghode Jatra is one of the spectacular events held at Tundikhel and takes place around March.