Customs and traditions differ from one part of Nepal to another. A conglomerate is found in the capital Kathmandu, where cultures merge to form a national identity. The Kathmandu Valley has been the country's cultural metropolis since the unification of Nepal in the 18th century. An important factor in the daily life of a Nepalese is religion. Adding color to the life of Nepalese are the festivals which are celebrated throughout the year with much pomp and joy. Food plays an important role in celebrating these festivals. Religion: Nepal was declared a secular country by Parliament on 18 May 2006. The religions practiced in Nepal are: Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, Jainism, Sikhism, Bon, ancestor cult and animism. Most Nepalese are Hindu or Buddhist. The two have coexisted in harmony over the centuries. The Buddha is widely worshiped by both Buddhists and Hindus of Nepal. The five Dhyani Buddhas; Vairochana, Akshobhaya, Rathasambhava, Amitabha and Amoghasiddhi represent the five fundamental elements: earth, fire, water, air and ether. Buddhist philosophy conceives...