"Nepal is an ancient State that has existed in various forms for more than 2500 years. The existence of Nepal is mentioned in religious scriptures of ancient Hindu and Buddhist civilisations. Neolithic tools found during excavations in the Kathmandu Valley indicate that people were living in the Himalayan region in the far distant past. The Mahabharata and other legendary epics mention geographical names and ethnic groups associated with Nepal, such as the Kiratas of Nepal. There is an ever-growing global interest in the values of the East since Eastern concepts such as non-violence, yoga, vegetarianism, nirvana, karma, meditation, and mindfulness, all informed by the teachings of Buddha, have become global phenomena. Hence, Nepal as the land of Buddha, has much to offer to the world and the world is increasingly attracted to Nepal... it remains a Shangri-la; and the country traditionally known as the land of meditation and contemplation (ज्ञान भूमम - तपो भूमम) still offers abundant opportunities to work towards achieving peace both within the region and beyond."