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FEW POPULAR TOURIST SITES & HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES IN NEPAL |
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Sites & Places of interest in Kathmandu Valley. |
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 KATHMANDU VALLEY: A vibrant valley of countless temples & shrines, where living Gods and Goddesses wander on the streets even until today. This is the city where Nepalese art and culture was developed and refined. Temple and palaces were built and rebuilt. The valley is situated at an altitude of 1336m above sea level and covers an area of 218 sq. miles. The rich tapestry of the cultural heritage of Nepal is synthesized in the Kathmandu Valley, the home of the ancient and sophisticated Newari culture. The Newars are the indigenous inhabitants of the Valley and the creators of the splendid civilization of its three cities - Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur. The skillfully built temples and palaces, delicately-engraved stones and metal images, carved wooden columns and pillars, and the history laden shrines and Chaityas of these three historical cities stand as paradigm of the Newar's artistic achievements. The salient spots worthwhile touring in Kathmandu valley are the Swoyambhu Nath Stupa, Pashupati Nath Temple, Bauddha Nath Stupa, Budhanilkantha temple, Changu Narayan temple, Dakshin-Kali temple, Old Royal Palaces (Durbar Squares) of the Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur city, etc.
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 KATHMANDU DURBAR SQUARE: 'Durbar' means Palace In Nepali-word and there are Durbar Squares in front of their old Palaces in Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur. But the King no longer lives in such old palaces in the Valley. The Palace was moved north to Narayanhiti about a century ago.
One can easily spend hours in Kathmandu Durbar Square Area. There are lots of interesting monuments, temples, art, architectures, woodcarvings, stone crafts, shrines and many more things to see, feel & explore. Few important & interesting sights at the Square are:- The house of living goddess - Kumari, Huge stone statue of The ferocious Kal Bhairab, The red Monkey God, Hundreds of erotic carvings on temple struts, Kasthamandap - house of wood, Maju Dewal, Shiva Parbati temple, Taleju Temple, Big bell, Big Drum, Sweta Bhairab etc.
The Kathmandu Durbar Square Area is also teeming with colorful life. Vendors sell vegetables, curios, flutes and other crafts around the square. This is very much the center of Old Kathmandu. If you like to get a wonderful feeling of the area, I suggest you to climb the terraced platform of the towering 'Maju Dewal' and watch around the sites. As a guide, I must say that Kathmandu Durbar Square Area is the most important site for Travellers to see.
 SWOYAMBHU STUPA: Atop the green hillock west of Kathmandu stand the great Stupa of Swoyambhu – a masterpiece of bronze art, situated some 4 Kms. from main Kathmandu City and above 77 meter from Valley floor. On all four side of the structure are painted the 'All seeing' eyes of Buddha looking out on all direction at the Valley below. Between them is the mystic third eye symbolic of true wisdom. Its dazzling white hemispherical mound represents the four-element earth, fire, air and water. The thirteen gilded rings on the spire are the thirteen degrees of knowledge and represent the ladder to "Nirvana" symbolized by the umbrella at the top. Around the Stupa runs a row of prayer wheels which is turned symbolically by Buddhist devotees representing the "Cycle of life and death" The Stupa was established some 2500 years ago and is the main center for all Buddhist settled in Nepal and Tibet. The spot commands a beautiful 'bird's eye view' to Kathmandu Valley. The site is listed as 'world heritage site' by UNESCO and is one of the other seven such sites in Kathmandu Valley.
 BOUDDHA STUPA: This site is lies 8 Kms. east of main Kathmandu City and is declared to stand as the largest Buddhist Stupa of South Asia and probably one of the larges in the world. It has become the focal point of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal; also it is the Nepal-center for Tibetan activities. It is believed that King Man Dev belonging to the Lichhabi dynasty built this ancient huge Buddhist Stupa in 6th century, some believes that it was constructed in 5th century, but definite proof is lacking. It rests on a series of three terraces and takes the relevant shape of a Lotus flower, which indeed remains a very holy object for the devout Buddhists of the entire world. The white mound looms thirty-six meters overhead. The Stupa is surrounded by a circular market, which forms a part of Tibetan town. The Stupa embraces the authentic philosophy of Mahayana – the faith, which is known as Lamaism or Tibetan Tantric Buddhism in Sikkim & Ladakh of India, Bhutan and Tibet. The site is listed as 'world heritage site' by UNESCO and is one of the other seven such sites in Kathmandu Valley.
 PASHUPATI TEMPLE: Pashupati in Nepali means 'Lord of the Animals'. It is a pagoda style Hindu Temple with gilt roofing and a richly carved silver door dedicated to lord Shiva is situated at the bank of the holy Bagmati River. The Pashupati has received the attention & faith of worshippers for at least 2000 years. This is one of the most sacred Hindu Temples in the entire Hindu World and one of the most important Hindu pilgrimages destination in Nepal. According to history, a temple dedicated to lord Pashupati was existed at this site in AD 879. However, King Bhupatindra Malla built the present temple in 1697. A pinnacle made by pure Gold, gold-plated roof, silver doors and woodcarving of the finest quality decorate the pagoda construction. ONLY HINDUS ARE PERMITTED TO ENTER THE MAIN COURTYARD OF THE TEMPLE. ALIEN TOURISTS CAN VIEW THE TEMPLE FROM THE EASTERN SIDE OF THE BAGMATI RIVER. The Bagmati River flows close by and the cremation spots (Arya-Ghat) are here. I strongly advise Travellers not to take photos & videos of cremations and of bereaved families. Sadhus, sages who follow the lifestyle of Shiva may be seen covered in ashes and loin-clothes. They ask for money in case you want to take their photos.
PATAN:
The ancient city of Patan is situated on the southern bank of the river Bagmati and is about 5 Kms southeast of Kathmandu., roughly 8 kilo meters south of Kathmandu City center. The city is full of Buddhist monuments and Hindu temples with fine bronze gateways, guardian deities and wonderful carvings. Noted for its craftsmen and metal workers, it is also known as the city of artists. Lalitpur in Nepali means "the city of beauty" is another name for Patan. The City of Patan is said to have been built by King Veer Deva in 299 AD. There are four ancient Stupas in Patan at the four corners of Patan, believed to have been built in 250 B.C. by an Indian Buddhist Emperor Ashoka during his visit to Kathmandu Valley. It is interesting to tell that there are more than 1200 Buddhist monuments of various shapes and sizes scattered in and around this city alone. However, the most important monumental center of the city is of course Patan Durbar Square. Please do not miss to see it.
 PATAN DURBAR SQUARE: The Patan Durbar Square is built of ancient palaces, temples, shrines and statues noted for their exquisite carvings. There include three main courtyards. We owe all these grandeurs to the sovereign Malla dynasty. This is the Royal Palace Complex of Patan city, which was built during the Malla period and stood as the capital part till 17th century. An attraction here includes three main courtyards Krishna temple, Bhimsen temple, Talezu Temples, Tushahity (Royal bath) etc.
 MAHABOUDDHA: Another interesting sites include the temple of Mahabouddha. It is only a few minutes walk from the square. High quality bricks in which thousands of images of lord Buddha are engraved make this temple a kind of its one. There is no another similar temple in Nepal. This Terracotta structure is one of the 14th century Nepalese architectural masterpieces. An architect named Avay Raj constructed it.
 BHAKTAPUR: Bhaktapur, literally the 'City of Devotees is renowned for its elegant art, fabulous culture, colorful festivals, traditional dances and the typical Newar lifestyle. This conch shaped historic city, Bhaktapur, spreading over an area of about 7 Kms Sq. Kms. and lying at 12 Kms. east of Kathmandu was founded by King Ananda Dev Malla in 12th century. The city still boasts of its superb art & subtle culture so vividly depicted on the remaining palaces, temples, monasteries and other monuments. The oldest part of the city is around Tachupal Tole (Dattatraya Square), to the east of the city. Bhaktapur was the capital of the whole valley during the 14th to 16th centuries and during that time the focus of the city shifted west, to the Durbar Square area. Much of the city's great architecture dates from the end of 17th century during the rule of King Bhupatindra Malla.
 BHAKTAPUR DURBAR SQUARE: The main square of the city, which used to be the capital part of Old Bhaktapur Kingdom contains numerous temples and monuments of wonderful nature. The Square is much larger and more spacious than Katmandu's & much less crowded with temples than Patan's. This is the most open public place of the city and also is the most outstanding cluster of exquisite temples and the royal palaces ornamented with work of arts. Here you'll see the 'palace of 55 window, the golden gate, golden spout, big bell etc.
TAUMADHI SQUARE: It lies at just a minute walk to the southeast of Durbar Square. This is the big junction where the striking landmark of the country stands tall and majestic. The Nyatapola Temple facing the cardinal direction of south is a Hindu pagoda, dedicated to Goddess Siddhi Laxmi. The temple was built during the reign of King Bhupatindra Malla in 1702 and is about 6o meter above the city's ground level. It is not only the tallest temple of the Kathmandu valley but of the entire nation. To the right is magnificent Bhairab Temple. It faces the cardinal direction of west and is a center for animal sacrifices.
DATTA-TRAYA SQUARE: Further to the northeast of Taumadhi Square is another interesting locality called Datta-traya Square. In fact this is the second important urban spot of Bhadgaon. The Datta-Traya temple was originally built in 15th century but restorations were made in 18th century. The square as a whole can be regarded as a marvelous gallery of intricate woodcarvings. One can smell environments of medieval period around the square. In the periphery of the temple, you can also see monasteries, Vimsen Temple and platform.
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sites & places of interest around Kathmandu Valley. |
 BUDHA-NILKANTHA: This is an enchanting Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu 'Narayan' - the preserver of creation, so the locality is also known as Narayan-than. The Vishnu statue at Budhanilkantha was found buries in the ground in its original state. The statue is estimated to be about a thousand years old and shows Vishnu lying on the cosmic water before the universe was created. Shivapuri hill looms over Budhanilkantha and visitors find much peace there.
 CHANGU NARAYAN: Narayan, or Vishnu is the preserver of creation to Hindus. His temple built atop a hill village Changu is described as the most ancient temple in the Kathmandu Valley. According to history, king Hari Barma in 323 AD, who belongs to Lichhabi dynasty, built it. A fifth century stone inscription dated 464 AD, the oldest to be discovered in Nepal is located in the temple compound and it tells of the victorious King Mandev. The two-roofed pagoda temple is richly decorated with sculptures and carvings.
FARPING / DAKSHIN KALI TEMPLE: This is a popular village amidst a lovely setting by the hillside. It is situated at the southwest corner of the valley. Inhabited mostly by the Newars and Tamangs both of whom are Buddhist by faith, the village is dotted with numerous Mahayana (Lamaism) monasteries.
The temple of Dakshin Kali lies in the south side of Farping village. Kali is a blood thirsty Hindu Goddess. So she is a kali of South. A ritual worship attached by animal sacrifice would be common in this temple. The important days for religious pilgrimage include Tuesday and Saturdays.
 NAGARKOT: This is a lovely hill-station lying at an altitude of 7133 feet (approx. 2200m) above the sea level and is not more than 32 kilometers direct east of Kathmandu City. It is a year round holiday resort rich in chlorophyll forestations. As an evergreen area, the pines appear spectacularly beautiful. The panorama of the major peaks belonging to the eastern Himalayas including Mt. Sagarmatha (Everest) can be viewed from here. The resort stands best at sunrise and sunset.
DHULIKHEL: This is an ancient Newari-town. A typical village of Dhulikhel is situated 30 Kms east of Kathmandu City on the side of Arniko Highway to the Tibetan border. From here one can own a complete panoramic view of the snowy flanks ranging from east to west.
 NAMO BAUDDHA: Namo Bauddha lies in the hillside hamlet of eastern part of Kathmandu valley. It can be reached through two routes, thus forming an interesting hilly circuit for trekkers and adventurers. Most popular route is through Dhulikhel from where it is about 12 Kms.
PANAUTI: It is a thriving Newari village with beautiful temples and interesting old houses. The drive passes through the beautiful countryside. The small beautiful town of Panauti is relatively untouched but where festivals preserving the precious tradition of the indigenous Newars are held. It possesses a number of interesting temples, one of which perhaps to be the oldest in Nepal. Besides, it is famous for magnificent woodcarvings.
KAKANI: Situated at an elevation of 6500 feet above the sea level and 25 kms. away from Kathmandu City is hilly Kakani, famous for plenty of terraced fields. Short treks are made possible. The fabulous holiday area of Kakani features enchanting attractions ranging from the beautiful alpine scenery to the magnificent Himalayan panorama, especially of the Ganesh
Himal.
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| Few
other places of interest beyond Kathmandu valley. |
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DAMAN: For those seeking the ultimate pan-Himalayan view, Daman is the place to go. Located 80 Kms. southwest of the Kathmandu valley, Daman (2400m) offers the only unimpeded view of the entire Himalayan range. Daman can be reached in four hours from Kathmandu. There are limited hotels for lodging & fooding, so if you intend to stay night there to have the best view of sunrise & sunset over the Himalayas, you must have to book & confirm your hotel in advance. For this you may go to your travel agency or simply consult with your tour- guide.
 GORKHA: The first King of Shah dynasty established his kingdom in Gorkha and from here the unification of present Nepal was initiated. It is the ancestral home of the Shah dynasty which rules Nepal today. The Gorkha palace perched at the top of the fortified hill, Manakamana Temple and a cave of Gorakha Nath are places to meditate upon. The town of Gorkha is situated on a western hill overlooking the snow-clad peaks belonging to the Great Himalayan Ranges. It is 4 hour's drive - 141 Kilo Meters from Kathmandu. You can make a selection from a wide range of lodgings & fodings in Gorkha Bazaar, which provide cheap as well as expensive accommodations & services.
 LUMBINI: The birthplace of Lord Buddha - the founder of Buddhism is situated 340 Kms. Southwest of Kathmandu, which is one of the most holy sites for Buddhists from all over the world. The broken Ashokan pillar, holy remnants of an old Buddhist monasteries, divine images of the Buddha's mother great Maya devi, etc. are still well preserved here. The main attraction at Lumbini remains the Sacred Garden spread over 8 Sq Km and possesses all the treasures of the historic area. Historical sites around Lumbini are Kapilbastu, Arorakot, Chtradei, Gotihawa, Kudan, Niglihawa and Sagarhawa. Important religious spots & images around Lumbini Garden are The Buddhist Temple, The Ashokan Pillar, Sanctum - Sanctorium of the Birthplace, Image of Maha Maya Devi and Puskarni - the Sacred Pool etc. Lumbini is connected with both air & road. You can make a selection from a wide range of lodgings & foodings in Bhairahawa city near Lumbini, which provide cheap as well as expensive accommodations & services.
TANSEN (PALPA): The township of Tansen (Palpa) - Altitude 1400 meter bears a rich legacy of traditional art and architecture. Perched on the lap of the spectacular Shree-nagar hill. Tansen (Palpa) commands a panoramic view of the Himalayas & the plain lowland of the Terai. There are great scenes over the bowl-shaped Madi Valley from town itself. The best comfortable place for getting a spectacular view of the Himalayan Ranges is the nearby hill of Shree-nagar. Pine forestations abound the area. It is on the way from Pokhara to Lumbini - the birthplace of Lord Buddha, and it is not to far from the Royal Chitwan National Park. The greatest attractions of this town are its ancient culture, friendly people, excellent mountain views, and above all, its serene atmosphere. The weather here remains moderate throughout the year, so it is a pleasant place to visit in any season. Tansen (Palpa) is connected with road, it is about 8 hours drive from Kathmandu, similarly about 3 - 4 hour's drive from Lumbini, Chitwan and Pokhara. You can make a selection from a wide range of lodgings & foodings in Tansen (Palpa), which provide cheap as well as expensive accommodations &
services.
 JANAKPUR: It lies in the eastern Terai region of Nepal. It is the capital of the ancient state of Mithila. Sita (also known as Janaki) - the wife of legendary hero Ram was born in Janakpur. The Janaki Temple is located in the center of the city is well known in the Hindu Kingdom. Throughout the year, many pilgrims come to pay their respects to Ram & Sita who are the main religious attractions in Janakpur. Ram & Sita (Janaki) are the two central characters of the great Hindu epic Ramayana. The artistic marble temple of Sita (Janaki) is also popularly known as Naulakha Mandir. Janakpur is linked with Kathmandu by air and road.
 ROYAL CHITWAN NATIONAL PARK (932 Sq. Km) is located in the subtropical lowlands and consists of Sal forests, tall grasslands, hills, ox-bow lakes and flood plains. This is the most visited park of Nepal. Over 50 species of mammals, 55 species of amphibians and reptiles and 525 species of birds are found here. Animals include the one-horned rhino, Bengal tiger, gaur, wild elephant, antelope, striped hyena, pangolin, ghariyal crocodile and the Gangetic dolphin, Cobras, Kraits and Pythons are also found here. There are many Tharu Villages adjoining the park. Activities mainly include game viewing, bird watching, boating on river, elephant back riding, nature walk & jungle drive (seasonable) etc. October through March is the best time to visit this park. Many Jungle Lodges in & around of park provides lodging & foodings to park-visitors. The park is about 170 Km - 5 hours drive from both Kathmandu & Pokhara. The nearest airports of the park (Bharatpur & Meghauli) are 20 minutes by air from Kathmandu. There is no air service to the park
except from Kathmandu. Please visit Safari page separately for more detail and activities in this park.
 ROYAL BARDIA NATIONAL PARK (968 Sq Km) is the largest and still most undisturbed wilderness area in the Terai lowlands. It consists of Sal forests and tall grasslands. It is a regenerated habitat for endangered species like the Rhinoceros, wild elephant, tiger, swamp deer, black buck, gharial crocodile and Gangetic dolphin. Cobra, Kraits and pythons are also found here. Endangered birds include the Bengal florican, lesser florican, silver-eared mesia and Sarus crane. The local people are mainly Tharus. Activities mainly include game viewing, bird watching, boating on river, elephant back riding, nature walk & jungle drive (seasonable) etc. It is three hour's drive from Nepalgunj to Park. Nepalgunj is 1 hour 10 minutes by Air from Kathmandu. You can directly reach to the Park by road from Kathmandu too, it is 531 Km drive - takes about 12 to 14 hours. October through March is the best time to visit this park. Few Jungle Lodges in & around of park provides lodging & foodings to park-visitors. Please visit Safari page separately for more detail and activities in this national park.
 KOSHI TAPPU WILDLIFE RESERVE (175 Sq. Km) is situated in the Terai lowlands. The vegetation here is mainly wetland grassland, scrub and deciduous forests. The reserve is unique for its wild buffaloes. Other mammals are the hug deer, wild boar, spotted deer and blue bull. Over 400 species of birds including ibises, stork, egrets, herons, swamp partridges and Bengal florican are found here. Activities mainly include bird watching, boating on river, elephant back riding, nature walk & jungle drive (seasonable) etc. The reserve is 541 Kms by road from Kathmandu and one hour's (approx. 50 Kms) drive from Biratnagar. Biratnagar is 50 minutes by air. October through March is the best time to visit this reserve. Few Jungle Lodges (just 3 hotel & lodge till my last visit on May 2001) provides accommodation in large safari tent & hygienic food to park-visitors. The reserve is a kind of paradise for bird-lovers. Please visit Safari page separately for more detail and activities in this wildlife reserve.
NAMCHE BAZAAR: The name of Namche Bazaar is generally associated with that of Sagarmatha or Mt. Everest, the highest point on earth. It is the entrance to the Everest region. Namche Bazaar is about 241 Kms. from Kathmandu and the distance is generally covered within 15 days by trekking. If you take 40 minute's flight to Lukla then you can reach to Namche within two days by trek. Nowhere else can you immerse yourself so totally among the highest mountains on earth and travel among the legendary Sherpas.
GOSAIKUNDA LAKE: One of the most famous pilgrimage destinations of Nepal is Gosaikunda Lake, which is situated at an altitude of 4360 meter. The best approach to Gosaikunda is through Dhunche - Gateway to Langtang trek, which is about 130 kms northeast of Kathmandu. Dhunche is linked with Kathmandu by a motorable road. Surrounded by high mountains on the north and south, the lake is grand and picturesque. There are other nine famous lakes such as Saraswoti Kunda, Bhairab Kunda, Ganesh Kunda, Surya Kunda and Nag Daha, etc.
SIRUBARI: Sirubari is a small village nestled on the southern slopes of a ridge at 1700 meter above sea level. The height and aspect ensure a comfortable climate regardless of any season of the year. The travel time for the average group to reach the village from Pokhara is about 5 hours. The village that is inhabited entirely by the Gurung people is small and compact with neat and clean trails connecting the mainly stone and slate built houses. Sirubari offers attractive valley views stretching away towards the Terai. A short walk above the village gives visitors a spectacular viewpoint in the region.
 JOMSOM / MUKTINATH: It is believed that all miseries / sorrows are relieved once you visit this temple (Mukti = Nirvana or status of Liberty / Free, Nath = God). The famous temple of Lord Muktinath lies in the district of Mustang and is situated about 18 kms northeast of Jomsom at an altitude of about 3800 meter. The main shrine is a pagoda shaped temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Sets into the wall around it are 108 waterspouts from which pour holy water. The temple is situated on a high mountain range and is visited during fair weather. There are two ways to get to Muktinath from. Either take a flight from Pokhara to Jomsom and hike for 7-8 hours from Jomsom or trek all the way from Pokhara through Kali-Gandaki valley, which takes 7/8 days. It is believed that one should visit this temple after competing pilgrimage of four special religious sites in India. This temple held sacred by Hindus as well as Buddhists. The Jwala Mai temple nearby contains a spring and an eternal flame fed by natural gas underground. Jomsom is a major center in the Annapurna region. There is a world-class accommodation facility in Jomsom from where one can enjoy remarkable natural beauty.
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| Pokhara
valley & short trekking from here. |
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 POKHARA: The city of lakes lies 200 kms. West of Kathmandu is another popular tourist destination after Kathmandu, Because of its natural beauty of green-hills, Snowcapped Mountain and three natural Lakes Phewa, Rupa and Begnas. Mt. Annapurna (8091m), Mt. Machhapuchhre - Fishtail Mountain (6997m) and Mt. Dhauala Giri (8167m) dominate the skyline of Pokhara. Attractions of Pokhara valley are Mahendra Cave, Seti River Gorge, Davy's fall, Tibetan Village, Temples & Monasteries, Old Market area, Mountain View from Sarangkot, three natural lake Phewa, Rupa & Begnas, Jal Barahi Temple, Binda Basini Temple etc. Pokhara is easily accessible by road & air.
SHORT TREK FROM POKHARA: Pokhara is the starting & ending points for almost all the trekking tours to Annapurna region. It also offers a number of short trekking trips for those who cannot go for longer & challenging ones. The most popular destination among them is Dhampus & Ghandruk. The panoramic view of the Himalayas seen from this point is superb.
 GHANDRUK: If you are in Pokhara & want to go Ghandruk (sometime spelled Ghandrung also, Please do not get confused), first you will have to take a drive to a place called Nayapul on Pokhara-Baglung highway. It is about 32 Kms from Pokhara. By Public buses, it would be a journey of 2 + hours, but by Taxi lets say about 1 hours or even less. After your driving trip it is another 5/6 hours easy walking to Ghandruk village. It is a huge Gurung village at 1940 meters. This is the second-largest Gurung village in Nepal (The largest is Siklis). You may back to Pokhara next day repeating same route. There are many hotels in Ghandruk that offers best food & accommodations. There are confusing clusters of closely spaced, slate-roofed houses. There are neatly terraced fields situated both above & below of the village. The views of Annapurna South from here are outstanding. Machhapuchhare, seen from here in its 'fish tail' shape peeps over a forested ridge. Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) has a visitor's center, Check post and an office here that provides information about its
activities.
DHAMPUS: It is about 30 minute's drive, about 16 Kms from Pokhara to Phedi, and from Phedi you will start your up-hill trek to Dhampus ridge (Altitude 1580 meter) for about 2 to 3 hours. At Dhampus, you will be rewarded with great views of the mountains including Mt. Dhawalagiri, Mt. Annapurna, Mt Fishtail, and Mt Hiunchuli etc. The views continue to improve as you ascend along the ridge. There are many hotels to cater your fooding and lodging requirement. You may back to Pokhara next day repeating same route, walking down easily.
The city of lakes lies 200 kms. West of Kathmandu is another popular tourist destination after Kathmandu, Because of its natural beauty of green-hills, Snowcapped Mountain and three natural Lakes Phewa, Rupa and Begnas. Mt. Annapurna (8091m), Mt. Machhapuchhre - Fishtail Mountain (6997m) and Mt. Dhauala Giri (8167m) dominate the skyline of Pokhara. Attractions of Pokhara valley are Mahendra Cave, Seti River Gorge, Davy's fall, Tibetan Village, Temples & Monasteries, Old Market area, Mountain View from Sarangkot, three natural lake Phewa, Rupa & Begnas, Jal Barahi Temple, Binda Basini Temple etc. Pokhara is easily accessible by road & air.
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(FLYING CLOSEST TO MT. EVEREST, FROM / TO
KATHMANDU): Mountain flights appeal to all categories of travelers. For those who are restricted by time or other consideration from going trekking, these flights offer a panoramic view of the Himalayas in just one hour. Even those visitors who like the rigors of a trek still don't miss the opportunity to conquer the mountains in one full swoop.
From the comfort of a fully pressurized aircraft, you'll experience the hour-long breathtaking mountain flight that shows you Everest and 17 other peaks from as close as 2 nautical miles. Guaranteed window seat as well as emergency oxygen mask are available for each passengers.
Travelers take off from Kathmandu in the early morning for an hour's worth of spectacular mountain scenery. As the aircraft lifts up and heads towards the east, passengers don't have to wait to long to find out what's in store for them. There they are the mountains, as they always have been. First to their far justify visitors see Gosaithan, also called Sisha Pangma, standing at the majestic height of 8013m. Immediately to the right of Gosaithan, there appears Dorje Lakpa 6966m. A mountain that looks like number 8 lying down and covered with snow. To the right of Dorje Lakpa is Phurbi-Ghyachu, which looms over the Kathmandu valley. As the plane moves along, the mountains come closer and closer. Next on the vision is Choba Bhamre, the smallest one of the lot at 5993m. But singularly stubborn as it has never been climbed. Then appears the mountain that is not only prominent in sight but also in spirituality Gauri Shanker. Lord Shiva and his consort Gauri are said to protect this mountain, at the proud height of 7134m. And the summit had a history of unsuccessful attempts till 1979. Gauri Shanker is sharp & very conspicuous during the mountain flight.
As the plane moves towards the land of the rising sun, the eastern Himalayas, a succession of glorious mountains follow. Melungtse, a plateau-like mountain, stretches up to 7023m. Chugimao at 6297m. is still a virgin, waiting to be climbed. At 6956m. Numbur Mountain resembles a breast, the maternal source in the sky providing pure milk to the Sherpas of the Solukhumbu (Everest Region). Next is Karyolung, an intensely white mountain that at 6511m. Gleams with the rising sun. Cho-Oyu is the eighth highest mountain in the world. Reaching a height of 8201m. It appears
Stunningly beautiful from the aircraft.
Next on the menu is Gyachung-kang, at a majestic height of 7952m. Considered an extremely difficult climb. To the right of Gyachung-kang is Pumori 7161m. As passengers get closer to Everest, there's Nuptse 7855m., which means west Peak, signifying its direction from Everest. Finally, there's Everest 8848m. Itself, known as Sagarmatha by the Nepalese and Chomolungma by the Tibetans. Much has already been written about Everest, but actually witness it face to face during a mountain flight is something else. Even while it looms there in front of the eyes, it remains an enigma, this highest dot on earth.
Mountain flights are offered by a host of airlines. All the flights leave Kathmandu between 0700 hrs to 0930 hrs.
Have a nice flight !!!!
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| ULTRA LIGHT AIRCRAFT RIDE |
(FLYING OVER ANNAPURNA RANGE FROM / TO POKHARA): Ultra-light aircraft was introduced in 96 and the operator has been offering sight-seeing tour in Pokhara valley. The choice of Pokhara for ultra-light aircraft is appropriate chiefly because of the proximity of the mountains, and the scenic lakes. For those who wish they could fly like birds, this flight is a must. Leave your woes behind on earth, soar to heights, bathe in the clouds, reach out for the mountains and kiss the azure sky. It might be lonely at the top, but the spectacular view from high up there certainly makes up for everything.
The Company operated flights from the Pokhara airport beginning September through June. The flights take place from sunrise to 1100 hrs and from 1500 hrs to sunset every day during these months. Three different routes are taken.
(A) Fly for fun: Duration 15 minutes. The aircraft flies over Pokhara City, Phewa Lake, Sarangkot hill at the speed of 50-90 Km/hr. The maximum altitude attained is 5,000 feet (Approx.1500 meter). The flight is designed for fun love.
(B) Touch the Fish Tail: Not quite, but still this flight takes you as close to the Fish Tail as is possible without compromising the safety. Duration 30 minutes. The speed is 90 Km/hr. The maximum altitude attained is 8,000 feet (Approx.2700 meter).
(C) Mountain Range Sky Trek: Duration 1 hour. This flight covers the whole of the Anapurna range at the speed of 90-130 Km/hr. The altitude attained is 12,000 feet (Approx. 4,000 meter) high above the clouds.
The service has two ultra-light aircraft of the model "Biman-1". Designed and manufactured in Russia by Biman Company Ltd, the delta wing aircraft fitted with "ROTAX 582" engine and weighing 170 Kg, has an operational speed of 50 Km/hr to 130 Km/hr. Ultra-lights can take off and land in a field or on a dirt road, and in areas where other planes fear to tread. The aircraft seats two, a passenger and the pilot; it can fly for hours.
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OVER KATHMANDU VALLEY: Hot air ballooning in Nepal is something that many travelers have written home about. In the five years since its flight, the sport has been very popular with tourist, for it affords the most spectacular view of the Kathmandu valley and the Himalayan ranges towering in the background. On a clear day, it is a superb way to view the Himalayan (from over 6000m up), and the view of the valley is equally breathtaking.
The huge balloon comes to life in the morning light, "a sleeping giant decorated with the all-seeing eyes of the Buddha," as it ripples, stretches, expands and readies itself for its load of passengers. The departure is gentle and one hardly feels the ascent and romantic form of flight is that there is no whirring or whining of engines, or any airplane wings to obscure the most magnificent of views. Like the agency puts it, "Even if you do not climb Mt. Everest, from the perfect safety and comfort of a wicker basket, you will feel that you have reached the top of the world in effortless security." Cool!
The best months for the hot air balloon flight are October November & march. Although the season extends from October to April. The flights takes place daily during the season, are depend on the wind for its duration (eastward or westward across the valley). The landing could be any place – mostly in the terraced – paddies that stretch out across the fringes of the valley, usually attracting a large impromptu gathering of villagers checking to see what has fallen out of the sky !
The balloon takes off from Thimi, near the historic town of the Bhaktapur, one of the three former principalities of the Kathmandu valley and in many ways most medieval. From there, depending on which the wind blows; it takes you on a trip that gives you the birds eye view of Kathmandu & the valley. The cost of hour-long ride is US $ 195
per person (as of October 01). Each trip can carry 12 passengers. It is advised to purchase ticket at least three days before of the flight and on the day before the schedule flight, the company will inform you the pick up time.
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 1st IN SOUTH ASIA - LATEST TOURISM PRODUCT OF
NEPAL: If you thought Bungy-jumping was restricted to some places in Europe, New Zealand and America, it's time you got an update. The sport has finally found a natural home in the highest mountain range in the world. The ultimate thrill of a Bungy jump can now be experienced in Nepal at perhaps the best site in the world.
Nepal's first Bungy jumping site is situated 160 meter over the wild Bhote Kosi river, and located close to the Nepal-Tibet boarder, a three hours Bus ride from Kathmandu. A jump can be arranged on arrival in Kathmandu. As of now, there I sonly one agency offering this sport. The jump, at 160 meter was designed by one of New Zealand's leading Bungy consultants and is operated by some of the most experienced jumpmasters in the business. It is mishap-proof. The agency takes safety very very seriously.
It is US $ 80 per jump (as of
October, 2001), including a bus ride
from/to Kathmandu, lunch and free
T-shirt.
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The cable car in Nepal takes you up on a spiritual adventure to the abode of Mankamana, the wish-fulfilling Hindu Goddess. Even if you have no wishes to make (assuming that you have got it all or you are not a
 believer), this place offers a unique look into Nepali people's faith in the Goddess Mankamana. The Mankamana temple overlooks terraced fields, and the Trisuli and Marshyang-di river valleys. The hilltop (1302m) also offers a vantage point for taking in the breathtaking view of the Manaslu, Himalchuli and Annapurna massifs to the north.
Venerated since 17th century and commanding royal patronage, Mankamana is located south of the historic town of Gorkha and 6 km north of Mugling. In the past, millions of pilgrims used to do the long arduous trek up to the hilltop. Many still do.
The cable car station in Cheres is about 104 kms, west from Kathmandu and about 102 kms east from Pokhara. From the base-station at Cheres one can get to Mankamana temple in 10 minutes flat or less. The ride covers a distance of 2.8 kilometers. With 31 passengers and 3 cargo-cars, each with a seating capacity of handling 600 persons per hour. The adventure is in getting your wishes fulfilled.
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HAVE A NICE TRIP !!!
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