The Dynastic History of Northern India (Early Mediaeval Period) v1.c14.161

v1.c14.161

The annals of the Ming refer to the renewal of relations between the Empire and the Himalayan kingdom in the 14th century. China took the first steps in opening diplomatic relations. The Emperor Hong-wu had sent in 1384 A.D. a Buddhist priest to Nepal to bring to the king a seal which conferred upon him official investiture. The king of Nepal in return despatched an ambassador who carried to the court 'small pagodas of gold, sacred Buddhist books, fine horses and the produce of his country.' The ambassador arrived in China in 1387. The name of this king of Nepal was *Ma-ta-na-lo-mo*. In 1390 and 1399 two other embassies came from Nepal. The successor of Hong-wu, Yung-lo imitated the example of his predecessor in returning friendly greetings. As a result of this, another Nepal ambassador came in 1409 bringing tribute. In 1413 the Emperor sent a gift to the new king of Nepal, *Cha-ko-sin-ti*, who returned the compliment in 1414. The Emperor conferred upon this king the title “King of Nepal,” and gave him a charter supporting that investiture, also a seal in gold and one in silver, in 1418. In 1427 the Emperor Hiuen-te tried to renew the relations, but without effect. No other ambassador came to the Imperial court.