Biratnagar

Biratnagar is a sub metropolitan city in south east Nepal which is named after the historical King Birat and is considered the second largest town after Kathmandu. In Nepali "Birat" means big and "Nagar" means a place or a city. Biratnagar has given many influential leaders in Nepalese politics including Bishweshwar Prasad Koirala, Girija Prasad Koirala, Manmohan Adhikari and Kirtinidhi Bista. Biratnagar is an industrial power house of Nepal with most of the country's industries located in and around its suburbs. It is in Koshi Zone - one of the fourteen administrative zones of Nepal and is also the district capital of Morang district. Its geographical location is 26°28'60"N 87°16'60"E.
Since it is situated in the Terai- north-most section of the Gangetic plains of South Asia, the lands are very fertile and hence Biratnagar has traditionally been an agricultural hub and is home to many agriculture based industries of the country. It is located near the border of India and is therefore a major center for trade and commerce with India. Biratnagar is linked with Kathmandu by roadways and airways. Biratnagar Airport is the regional hub for vital air services serving the Eastern part of the country.

Transport

The major mode of transport to the city is road transport. It is well connected to other parts of the country through buses. Biratnagar is also well connected to Kathmandu and some hilly places by air transport. Biratnagar airport is one of the busiest airports in Nepal with most flights to Kathmandu.
It is also easy to travel to and from India by trains from the bordering Indian city of Jogbani. There are direct trains to the city of Kolkata and the Indian capital New Delhi from Jogbani. In 2008, a survey for a railway extension from India was done. It was completed in 2009.
The best way of getting around the city is by using cycle rickshaws. There are also auto rickshaws running short distances but they don't operate in the main market area. Actually one can easily get around the city on foot.

Tourism

Biratnagar is not a typical tourist city but is a great hub to explore the interesting places in eastern Nepal. However, there are many things to do in the city. You can stroll along the unique market which is along a straight road and branches out and savor the street food. You can try your luck at the newly opened casino at Hotel Ratna, or head to the small but beautiful Complex, with swimming pool and a garden.
For the food lovers, don't miss the tasty barbecues (called "sekuwa" in Nepali) and other local delicacies or satisfy your sweet tooth with tasty sweets in one of many sweet shops in the main market.
As a hub for your travel plans in Eastern Nepal, Biratnagar is ideal. The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, is a mere 90 minute drive from the city and is famous for its wildlife, especially for bird-watching enthusiasts. It is also home to the endangered wild buffaloes called "Arna" in Nepali.
The largest rhododendron forests of Tinjure, Milke and Jaljale can be reached in about 3-4 hours. Scenic treks with views of Mt. Makalu and Kanchenjunga can be started from the small towns of Basantapur or Tumlingtar.
The beautiful tea gardens of Ilam is just 4 hours drive away. Another place of interest is the hilly district of Dhankuta with its orange orchards.

Education

Biratnagar is the centre of education in the eastern Development Region of Nepal. People in Biratnagar give more importance to education followed by business, industry and politics although Biratnagar was politically very active in the past. The teaching medium of education is English in all the private schools, colleges and universities whereas Nepali medium in government schools up to secondary level.

Recreation and Entertainment

People of Biratnagar usually recreate during Hindu festivals. During festivals they play cards, kouda (Juwa; a local Nepali game), dice (a local game), carroms (a local game), etc. Man usually go out to drink with friends. The common drinks are Carlsberg, Tuborg, etc in beer, and Vodka, Jack Daniels, etc in liquor. But, local alcohol called "raksi" prepared locally by local people is very cheap and common among the people around the city. Young boys entertain in dance parties organized in clubs, bars or hotels during festivals although no proper discos and KTVs are in the city. Some school kids enjoy watching TV and listening to local FM at home.

Religion and Culture

The major religions of the city are Hinduism, Islam (Muslim), Om Santi , Sai Baba, Christianity and Buddhism. The main culture deeply rooted in the city people comes from Hinduism. They have 4 castes and 36 sub-castes system with upper, medium, lower and lowest caste/ class people. Untouchability still exists in huge population. There are several temples of Hindu, the famous is "kali Mandir"; several meeting places of Om Santi, one temple of Sai Baba and unclear meeting place of Christians and Buddhists.