
Nepal is the best marriage Destination for us -Doctor Mark Townsend (age 70) Nurse Ruth Knowles (age 70)

I come from the United Kingdom, where I worked as a doctor. The idea of finding the perfect place for my marriage had been on my mind. Fate led me to Ruth while we were working together. What drew me to her was her simplicity and kindness, effortlessly turning every interaction into a warm and comforting experience. Ruth, a nurse in our family practice, and I, a doctor, shared a passion for travel.
Life in Britain felt crowded, lacking the vibrancy we longed for. In the year 2000, 22 years ago, I decided to explore Nepal, a country known for its natural beauty. Excitedly, I shared my experiences and the allure of Nepal with Ruth, and she was ready to accompany me.
In 2004, we visited Nepali villages, forming a deep bond with the people. Ruth and I fell in love with the country’s natural splendor, making the decision to marry in Nepal an easy one, driven by our affection for the Nepali people and the country’s ideal setting.
Tanahun okhle village traditional marriage ceremony

Nepal felt like another world, with friendly locals creating an inviting atmosphere. Our arrival in Kathmandu was akin to stepping into an open museum. Each community, from Newar to Gurung, showcased the rich cultural tapestry of the country. Lama Madesh and the coexisting communities resembled a garden of diverse castes, showcasing harmony across various cultures. Exploring Nepal’s culture and cuisine became a cherished part of our experience.

Nepal, a Himalayan paradise, captivated us during our Langtang trek. Bimal, our tour guide, became a close friend, hailing from Okhle in the Tanahun district. Visiting Bimal’s village revealed challenges, particularly in education and safe drinking water. Driven by initiative, we resolved these issues, marking the beginning of our commitment to community development.
Our annual travels, alongside friends, involved funding water systems in 30 communities, supporting schools, community centers, and disaster relief efforts. Our involvement became a testament to our growing connection with Nepal.
Choosing Tanahu, Bimal’s district, for our marriage was a conscious decision to avoid the crowdedness of the UK. The residents of the village and neighboring villages treated us like royalty, using traditional instruments to celebrate our union in a grand ceremony blessed by a Lama priest. The traditional wedding drew crowds from three villages, creating a joyous gathering of nearly 2000 people.
Marriage in Nepal is not just a union of two individuals but a celebration involving the entire village, reflecting the rich cultural heritage. The traditional lama ceremony, steeped in the oldest religion in the world, Buddha dharma, felt like a heavenly experience. In the belief of Buddhism practitioners, marriage is pre-planned in heaven, making our union even more special.
Marriage in the Kathmandu District Court

For legal legitimacy, we opted for a court marriage in the Kathmandu District Court. Advocate Alpana Bhandari facilitated the necessary arrangements, ensuring all documentation was in order. Our court marriage, overseen by a pleased judge, added another layer of significance to our relationship.

Our incredible journey, from the crowded streets of the United Kingdom to the serene villages of Nepal, showcases the power of love that transcends borders. As we navigate the complexities of two cultures, our commitment to Nepal and each other remains unwavering. Our story is a testament to the transformative journey of love that knows no boundaries, creating a bridge between the United Kingdom and the enchanting landscapes of Nepal.
“The love of my life is an incredible person who has brought immense joy and happiness into my life. They are my best friend, my confidant, and my partner in every sense of the word. Being with them feels like coming home – a place of comfort, warmth, and understanding

When I married them, my heart swelled with emotions that words cannot fully express. The anticipation, the nervousness, and the sheer excitement all blended together to create a magical moment. Standing at the altar, looking into their eyes, and exchanging vows filled me with an overwhelming sense of love and commitment.
As we said “I do,” a wave of euphoria washed over me. It was a surreal feeling, knowing that I was making a lifelong commitment to the person I adore. The entire ceremony was a beautiful blur of emotions – tears of joy, laughter, and gratitude. It felt like the world around us disappeared, leaving only the two of us, bound together in a union of love.

Our journey as a married couple has been filled with incredible moments. Every day, I wake up grateful for the blessing of having this amazing person by my side. They have shown me what it means to love unconditionally, to support one another through thick and thin, and to grow together as individuals and as a couple.
In their presence, I feel a deep sense of comfort and safety. They have a way of making me feel cherished and valued, reminding me consistently of the love we share. Their love has fueled my own growth and has taught me to love myself more fully. Together, we have built a strong foundation of trust, respect, and companionship.
Marriage is an adventure that needs sacrifice, patience, and compromise. It’s not always smooth sailing, but with the love of my life, every obstacle feels conquerable. We face challenges hand in hand, knowing that, together, we can overcome anything that comes our way. The bond we share continues to deepen with each passing day, and I am grateful for the opportunity to spend the rest of my life with them.

In summary, the love of my life has brought immense joy into my world. The day we got married was filled with overwhelming emotions, and since then, our relationship has become a source of strength and happiness. I count myself incredibly lucky to have them as my partner for life.
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