nsadmin, Author at Nepal Sanctuary Treks

Christmas: Celebrating the Birth of Christ

Posted on December 3, 2018 by nsadmin

The beautifully decorated streets, the lights, the busy market, and the glowing trees in the cold days of December signify the arrival of Christmas. Christmas: an annual festival that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ is a religious celebration among millions of people all around the globe. Although the exact date of the birth of Jesus is still unknown, the Western Christian Church established the tradition of Christmas on December 25 in the fourth century. The people in the East later adopted the date.

Christmas Day is a national holiday in many countries of the world including Nepal. Christmas is a primary festival of the followers of Christianity; however, the festival has now become a culture for many non-Christians and has been a secular celebration. Exchanging gifts, attending church, sharing the meal with family and friends, and waiting for the Santa Clause to arrive are some of the popular customs of the day.

What does Christmas mean?

Christmas is the short form of Christmasses derived from Middle English from the word Cristemasse. Nowadays Christmas is also called ‘Xmas’. Some people do not think it right to call the festival Xmas because the name excludes the word ‘Christ’ (Jesus) from the name. The X in the Xmas is actually an abbreviation of the word Christ.

History of Christmas

The Christmas origin dates back to centuries ago. The middle of the winter has a long-time history of the celebration. Even before the birth of Jesus, the early Europeans celebrated light and birth in the darkest days of winter. The people look forward to the long sunny days. Likewise, the end of December was celebration time in Europe. They used to slaughter their cattle and have enough supply of fresh meat. Adding on, most wine and beer made during the year become ready to drink during December.

On Christmas, the Christians visit the church and make their celebration. Every year, there is a tradition to entitle a student or a beggar with the Lord of Misrule. The poor people go to the houses of the rich and the owner has to provide them with the best food they will ask for. If by any cause the owner does not follow the rule, the visitors will trouble them with their mischief. This ritual of Christmas is a chance for the upper classes to repay their real or imagined debt to society by serving the less fortunate people.

Why 25^th December?

It is not mentioned anywhere not even in the bible about the exact date when Jesus was born. So ever wondered why chose 25^th of December to observe Christmas Day? According to an early Christian tradition, it was 25^th March when Mary was told that she would have a very special baby Jesus. Nine months after the day is 25^th December. The early Christians also thought that March 25^th is the day when the world was made and the Jesus had died.

The first celebration of Christmas occurred on 25 December in 336. The early celebration of Christianity involved Easter because the birth date of Jesus Christ was not clear. Although some evidence indicates that his birth might have occurred in spring, Pope Julius I chose December 25^th as the day of Jesus’s birth. The church chose the date so that the traditions of the Pagan festival can be adopted. The celebration started as the Feast of the Nativity and spread over Egypt and England by the end of the sixth century.

Christmas Rituals

The festival has great significance and thus the Christmas celebration includes a number of ways and rituals that range from families, societies, national and international levels. Here are some of the Rituals during Christmas:

The traditions in the Church

The Crib

The Crib is the plot of the scene of Nativity or the birth of Jesus. Setting up a Crib that beautifully demonstrates the birth of Jesus is an immense part of Christmas. St. Francis of Assisi first set up the scene in the 13^th century and now the custom has widely spread in other parts of the world. The Nativity scene beautifully displays the infant Jesus resting in the manger, Mary and Joseph. The other may be angels, shepherds, and other animals.

The people also prepare the crib in their home. They vary in size; from large enough like statues or tiny enough that they can fit into a matchbox. The materials for the preparation include carved and painted wood, colored ceramics, colored papers and the mixture of the clay, wood, straw and the metal and cloth for various parts. Most of the nativity scenes of houses are packed away after the Christmas celebrations, those prepared in the church remain on display until the Baptism of the Lord.

Carols by candlelight

Carlos lit only by the candles is another popular tradition in many churches. The event has a lot of singing and Bible reading along with the lightening the candles. The reading starts from the very beginning of the Bible where Adam disobeys God to the coming of Jesus. There are nine lessons and after the end of every lesson, there is a carol song. Every year, this ritual is recorded in the large English Church, more often in King’s College Chapel, Cambridge and broadcasted on radio and televisions especially for the people who cannot go to the service.

The Public and Commercial Celebrations

The cities and towns look more lightened and lively. Although Christmas lasts only for a few days, the cities spend a huge amount of money on decoration mainly lights. The lamppost and banners strung from the tall buildings. The large glittering Christmas trees stand in public areas with an appeal to donate money. The money will go to help and buy gifts for those in need. Some charity and service organizations try to contribute to the poor, lonely and hungry people by providing food and gifts to them.

The Christmas parades, streets entertainment,and concerts also make the environment more fun-filled. The carols with a choir and entertainers in the town hall or in an open space like parks or beaches also make an important part of the celebration. Santa Claus arrives at the end of the evening. The amazing fireworks welcome Santa Claus.

Moreover, another comes Shopping! In many cities, the shopping hours are elongated before Christmas so that everyone gets enough time to buy Christmas foods and presents. The big supermarkets are decorated with animated scenes and Santa Claus to entertain the children. The children make their wish for Christmas with Santa Claus. Santa Claus is believed to fulfill the wishes of the children.

Family Celebrations

The rituals of Christmas are not the same for all families. The traditions mainly differ according to the place and origin where the family belongs to. However, families share some common celebrations.

Family get together and dinner

Christmas is the best time for families to come together for a few days. The family members who are far from home gather and have a quality time. Christmas is a good opportunity to know each other. For instance: the cousins to get closer, the grandparents to see their grandchildren and admire the newborn in the family. In addition, Christmas is a perfect moment to share life events with family members.

Christmas dinner is another important part of the family celebration. The feast occurs in midday and the constituents of the meal may vary according to the families. In the Northern Hemisphere, the main course of the meal includes roasted meat and vegetables. The meal includes turkey, ham, roasted beef or beef and supplemented by other special treats that occur only at Christmas.

People prepare their own special recipe for the desert. In English-speaking countries, the Christmas plum pudding is the traditional dessert. The pudding is nowadays being replaced by the bakery items. Many families also make Christmas cake or special bread by themselves. Other items made by the families include mulled wine, a sweet drink of milk, sugar, eggs, nutmeg and occasionally alcohol.

The dinner in Southern Hemisphere often includes roasted cold cuts of meat served with the salads. The prawn cocktail or a cold soup make up the first course. The ice cream can also be an add-on to the plum pudding. The cold beer and white wine also make a part of dinner.

The feast and the family celebration of Christmas is a key factor to strengthen the family bonding and make a sense of belonging.

The Christmas decoration and Christmas tree

The people decorate their houses with lights and a Christmas tree. They set up the Christmas tree generally inside their houses. The tree might also occur in the gateway of the home to welcome the visitors. The Christmas decoration includes the lights, shiny colored balls, small packets of the gifts and other ornaments. The other plants used in the decoration have special significance. The mistletoe is hung in the center of the room. There is a tradition that anyone who meets under the mistletoe must kiss.

Gifts and Cards

The gift-giving tradition in Christmas came into existence from several ideas. The first one is that the god gifted his son; Jesus to the world on this day. Also, stories tell that the Wise Men came to the baby Jesus with three gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. For centuries long, the tradition of giving small gifts and helping the poor and needy people. Nowadays, there is another tradition linked in the gift-giving tradition: Santa Claus. The children believe that Santa Claus will come and bring them the Christmas gift they made a wish for. He is also known as Father Christmas and someone who brings happiness to the children.

People also prepare cards and exchange them with gifts. Also, various cards are available in The markets are filled with an abundant number of cards wishing a very happy Christmas.

The Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve is the night before Christmas Day. The Eve also has some of the characteristic traditions. The highly prevalent one that is still in practice is going to the Midnight Mass Church Service. The Midnight Mass Church Service is also special because it is the only ceremony that occurs after the sunset and before the sunrise of the next day.

There are also some superstitions related to Christmas Eve. In the UK people believe that the young girls can find the initials or may also even have the vision of their future husband. In this particular day, they prepare a cake and name it ‘Dumb cake.’ The girls prepare the cake in silence and make their initials on the surface of the cake. By bedtime, they will place the cake near to the fire hearth and believe that her true love will come and mark the initials of his name on the same cake.

The End of Christmas

For everyone knows the preparation of Christmas starts from early December, but what about the end? If you are still thinking Christmas is only about the 25^th December, then you are still not aware when Christmas really ends. Actually, the Christmas is not a one-day festival but it is more like a season; the Christmas Season which begins on the day of Christmas. The Christmas season lasts for 12 days from the 25^th of December to the 5^th of January. The twelfth night is the night before the Epiphany (Jan 6). The last night is the night of the feast in England. All the decorations go off only after the 12^th day of Christmas.

Christmas in Nepal

Being tourism as the main industry of Nepal and unlike other Nepalese festivals, Christmas is also popular festival in Nepal. Despite of minority in Christianity, Nepal also celebrates Christmas with great enthusiasm and contentment. Christmas is not only common among the Christian community but also among the other non-Christian communities. The 25^thDecember is a national holiday in Nepal and everyone seems to be busy with their own plans for the day.

The Churches have their own programs on the day. Many hotels organize gala dinner and restaurants serve varieties of food during Christmas You can find many events and functions like music, concert, dance party, street festivals and numerous attractions to tourists organized in restaurants, hotels and other towns in Nepal.

The supermarkets, restaurants, and hotels set up a huge Christmas tree in front of the main entrance decorated with chimes, stars, reindeer, and scaled-down portrayals of wrapped gifts.

If you are planning to visit Nepal in December, then you will surely feel the Christmas vibes in the country mainly Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, and Pokhara.

So, what are you planning up for the Christmas this year? If nothing yet, then what about a new and exciting Christmas celebration in Nepal? Christmas would be a perfect time to spend some time trekking in the Himalayas. If you are excited about trekking in this festive season, feel free to contact our travel expert. We are always happy to make your festive holiday remarkable and fun-filled. Of course, you will not miss the Christmas vibes although you will be away from your home. Happy Christmas!!

Phewa Circuit Trek: Trekking around Pokhara

Posted on November 28, 2018September 22, 2022 by nsadmin

Either it is about the snow-capped mountains, the beautiful lakes or a perfect leisure spending place, Pokhara never disappoints the tourists. Pokhara offers a variety of choices for the visitors. This may include trekking, sightseeing, experiencing the culture, shopping in the local market, mountain biking and many ways to chill.

Pokhara offers a number of trekking possibilities for the tourists. The Poonhill trek, Ghandruk Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, Khopra Danda Trek, and Upper Mustang Trek are some of the beautiful trekking routes in Nepal that can be started from Pokhara. Pokhara is also very popular as the starting point of the famous Annapurna Circuit Trek. However, Pokhara also offers with the beautiful trek inside the valley. The Phewa Circuit Trek is one of such trek one should not miss.

About Phewa Circuit Trek

The Phewa Circuit Trek offers wonderful views of the mountains from a gentle height and not very far from the city area. The beautiful countryside view and friendly locals make the trek more worthy. The short Phewa Circuit Trek will lead you through the tropical forest with the highest elevation of 2,760 meters at Panchase. The beautiful Rhododendron, orchid, fern and the chipping of the birds give the untouched feeling of the countryside.

Phewa Circuit Trek Highlights

Experience the settlement, lifestyle and culture of the local villages
The glorious mountain peaks: Annapurna, Machhapuchhare, Dhaulagiri, and other peaks.
Easy trail, low altitude without the fear of the altitude sickness
Beautiful sunrise and sunset view

Major attractions of the Phewa Circuit Trek

Phewa Lake

Phewa Lake is not only the attraction of the Phewa Circuit Trek but is a preferred destination in whole Pokhara itself. The lake lies at the altitude of 742 meters and extends over an area of 4.43 sq km. The Phewa Lake has a beautiful and peaceful environment. The crystal clear reflection of the Machhapuchhare Himal and other mountains of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges on the surface of the lake is a major factor that makes the Lake enchanting.

Multicolored boats add an extra light to the lake. You can take a boat tour around the lake. The boats are available anytime at the bank of the lake. The Barahi temple at the middle of the pond is another attraction. You can hire a boat and make a tour to the Barahi temple. Floating on the surface of the beautiful lake with the panorama of the snowcapped mountains overhead is one of the best nature experience you will ever get. The temple is two-storied, pagoda style temple and is the representation of Ajima; the female force. A number of devotees visit the temple particularly in Saturday.

The Phewa Lake is more like a piece of heaven on earth. The evening walk around the lake or evening boating is accompanied by the beautiful sunset. The colorful sunset over the sky is worth watching from the Fewa Lake.

World Peace Pagoda Trek

The southern bank of the Phewa Lake offers the way towards the World Peace Pagoda. The trail is straight uphill climb following the stone steps. Only 7 km away from Pokhara, the world peace pagoda is mostly popular as the viewpoint of the sunrise and sunset. The interesting trip to the pagoda starts from the Pardi Khola Bridge. Crossing the bridge, passing through the paddy fields and greenery, the trail will lead you to a small temple. You will also see a poultry farm on the way on your left.

Again walking about 2 km through the beautiful forest, the main trail continues in the west. There also exists an alternative trail which is about 600 m from the gate that will lead you up to the main ridge. Both the trails meet uphill and you will now reach the restaurant where the trail from Devi’s fall joins. With the beautiful view of the surrounding you will finally reach the peace pagoda.

For an even shorter route, trekkers can also hire a taxi or get a local bus that can drop you by the bus park at the south of the stupa. The steep trail for less than an hour leads to the entrance of the pagoda. If you are really looking for a hot, sweaty, workout type of hike, then hike from the Devis Falls is a good idea.

Panchase Deurali Trek

Panchase is 28 kilometers from Pokhara. Resting on the foothills of the Himalayas, Panchase is one of the attractive trekking destinations in Nepal. The trek is simple, low altitude trek and thus is suitable for any age group without any special requirements. Along with the beautiful mountains along the trail, the Panchase trek offers the trekkers with the historical, cultural and religious experience.

The trail passes through the subtropical to temperate forest which is home to a number of endangered bird species. You might also encounter some monkeys. The Panchase Peak is 500 meters up which can be conquered by the stone trail. The peak is also called Pancha Dham because of its religious importance.

The Panchase peak is the highest peak around the Phewa Circuit Trek. The early morning in the Panchase peak is wonderful to experience the beautiful sunrise. The red sun rays spreading over the mountain peaks of the Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Manaslu and Ganesh Himal makes the horizon look like heaven.

Want to Know More about Trekking inside the Beautiful City Pokhara?

Sarangkot Trek

At the altitude of 1600 meters, Sarangkot is the viewpoint and is particularly famous for the sunrise and sunset. A short trek to the top of the hill will be perfect in the morning or the evening.

The trek is little but challenging and starts from the north of the Lakeside through the Kahare. Following the road from Kahare, the trail will lead to the Sedi Bogar village. Right from the Caravan Restaurant and continuing through the stone road, you will reach the forested slopes of the Sarangkot. The road ends there at the right side (east) of the school and thus you now need to follow the next trail. After walking for about 100 meters, the trail breaks to the left and then the stone steps begin again.

Walking along the stone steps through the long jungle and passing through the small villages, trekkers can catch a sight of paved roads with some restaurants nearby. There also stands a school. You are now almost done but this is not the end of the trail though. From here, a 200 meters walk down the road and a 100-meter on the left will lead to the steps from where the top is visible. Sarangkot village lies at the top with many restaurants, cafes, and shops.

The top of the hill offers majestic views of the glorious mountains namely Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) in the west, Pyramids of Machhapuchhare (6,997 m), and Annapurna II (7,937 m) in the east. Take a long, satisfied breathe and get lost in the magical views of the mountains.

Begnaskot Hiking

The third largest lake of Nepal; the Begnas lake lies in the southeast of Pokhara and 35 km east of the tourist center at Phewa Lake. Begnas Lake is a quiet and peaceful place to spend some quality time in. The Begnas Lake provides an opportunity to have some time close to the nature on the lap of the Annapurna range. You can also hire a boat and paddle around the lake during the beautiful evening enjoying the sunset.

Begnaskot is a ridge towards the northeast of the Begnas Lake. The hike to the Begnaskot is a firsthand experience to the countryside lifestyle and mountain culture. The Sundari Danda village that occurs in the trail while climbing for the Begnaskot is a beautiful instance of the agricultural tourism in Nepal. The village is composed of different groups where the people are involved in agriculture, fishing and coffee production. There is also an organic fresh coffee farm that offers fresh coffee.

At the top of the Begnaskot, there is a temple. The temple is called the Begnaskot temple and is especially important for the Hindus. The hill top provides the view of the beautiful Pokhara valley, the lush green forest and different mountain ranges. This trekking route is less explored and is rarely visited by the tourists. Thus, the trail is quiet and peaceful.

THANKSGIVING DAY: An Expression of Gratitude

Posted on November 22, 2018 by nsadmin

The tradition of prayers and expressing gratitude is common in various parts of the world. Not to mention, the ways of celebration may vary greatly. Thanksgiving is a similar occasion that celebrates the harvest and blessings of the previous year.

The Thanksgiving Day is the public holiday in the United States, Canada, and many other Caribbean islands and Liberia. The Thanksgiving celebration has a deep relation with the religions and cultural traditions. However, the festival is now as a secular holiday and is an excellent opportunity for the family members gather and enjoy the feast together.

Thanksgiving History

Although the main idea behind the celebration is offering gratitude for the previous good comings, the concept of Thanksgiving came into practice different forms in different parts. Let’s know about the origin of the Thanksgiving festival in different parts :

Thanksgiving in the United States of America

The Native Americans celebrated the Thanksgiving festival as a harvest festival since the 16^th century. In the early 1600s, people from Massachusetts and Virginia came together to express their thankfulness for their survival and the fertility of their fields.

The Thanksgiving festival as a first national holiday, however, it has a different history. In 1789, President George Washington issued a proclamation that declared the 26^th November as a Public Thanksgiving Day to recognize the role of providence to create the new Federal Constitution. The president aimed to acknowledge God for “an opportunity to set-up a form of government for their safety and happiness.” This was the first USA Thanksgiving celebrated under the new constitution.

The Thanksgiving became a yearly tradition in many communities and celebrated on different months and days, but not as a federal government holiday. In 1863 President Lincoln declared the Thanksgiving Day on Thursday, November 26. This proclamation successfully declared the fixed day that is the Last Thursday of November as a Thanksgiving Day.

Again in 1939, President Franklin D. Roosevelt announced a change in the day of Thanksgiving. He changed it from the last Thursday of November to the Third Thursday so that there could be more shopping days before Christmas and boosts the economy. However, people continued to observe the festival in the Fourth Thursday.

Finally, in 1941, the president and the Congress declared the Thanksgiving Day as a United States Federal Holiday on the fourth Thursday in November. This then clarified the confusion of the day of celebration.

Thanksgiving in Canada

In Canada, the second Monday in October is the day of celebrating Thanksgiving and has a different origin than that of the United States. The first Thanksgiving meal in Canada happened on 1578 when the English explorer Martin Robisher and his crew organized the meal in order to express their thankfulness to God for blessing them with the safe passage through the wilds in the new world.

Thanksgiving Celebration Date

Since the celebration of Thanksgiving in the USA and Canada depends on the date of last Thursday and Second Monday, the date is not always fix:

Year American Thanksgiving Canadian Thanksgiving

2018 Thursday, November 22 Monday, October 8

2019 Thursday, November 28 Monday, October 14

2020 Thursday, November 26 Monday, October 12

Thanksgiving Traditions: What Happens in Thanksgiving?

Family Get together

One of the best parts of Thanksgiving is family members getting together and spending a quality time. Individuals living far from the family travel a long distance to be with their family. The Thanksgiving is most probably the busiest travel of the year. Thanksgiving is also a popular time for the vacations, trips, and visit to a friend.

Giving Thanks

As the name suggests, the festival involves the Thanksgiving part. In present days, the Thanksgiving tradition is being carried out in many forms such as being a part of religious events, performing a Thanksgiving prayer before dinner. Before praying, each member in the family put forward with at least a reason for being thankful to God in that year.

The Feast

The Thanksgiving meal is a tradition of preparing traditional foods. The meal includes turkey, stuffing, gravy, sweet potatoes, and cranberry sauce, cornbread, and mashed potatoes. The desert includes pies of different flavors that includes pumpkin, pecan, sweet potato,and apple.

The Thanksgiving meal features Turkey which might be roasted, stuffed or sometimes deep-fried. As per the statistics, almost 88% of the Americans eat turkey on Thanksgiving and around 46 million turkeys are eaten which is twice as much as the amount of turkey eaten at Christmas.

Some families also prepare the vegetarian meal for Thanksgiving. Instead of the stuffed turkey, they prefer to make a vegetarian turkey made up of tofu. Squash, salads and other fruit and vegetable dishes are also popular.

The Wishbone

The wishbone is also an interesting part of the celebration. The wishbone in the turkey is attached to the breast meat. After removing the meat and after the wishbone becomes a little dry and brittle, the wishbone fun begins. Two people from each end pull the end towards their side. People believe that whoever gets the bigger part of the bone will get their wish granted.

The Turkey Pardon

Every day in the Thanksgiving Day, the President of the United States receives a live turkey as a gift. At the White House ceremony, the president traditionally “pardons” the National Thanksgiving Turkey meaning that the turkey will live the rest of their lives on the farm without the risk of being eaten.

The Parade and Televisions

People go out for the march in many cities during the day. The New York’s Thanksgiving Parade is one of the largest parades which is called Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade. The parade begins in the morning and involves lots of fun and energy. It includes marching bands, floats, songs and performances by the musical bands, huge helium balloons and many more.

Others enjoy to watch the broadcast of the Thanksgiving on the Television. The football matches are also something the people would love to watch during the day.

Thanksgiving around the other parts of the World

Although Thanksgiving is much widely popular in the U.S.A. the festival is still celebrated in other countries around the world.

The Australian external territory of Norfolk Island celebrates the Thanksgiving festival on the last Wednesday of November.
The West Indian island of Grenada in the Caribbean has a national holiday of Thanksgiving on October 25^th. Irrespective of the same name, the festival celebrates the anniversary of the U.S. led invasion of the island in 1983.
The orthodox Protestant churches in the Netherlands observe the Thanksgiving festival on the first Wednesday in November. The day is not a public holiday in the Netherlands, thus, the one who observes the day make a visit to the church in the evening or take a day off and go to the church in the morning.

Despite of the fact that there is not practice of celebrating Thanksgiving in Nepal, there are still tourists’ who travel to Nepal during this period. Although the ways and the dates of celebrations differ in different parts of the world, may God bless everyone with many reasons to be thankful. Happy Thanksgiving!

LANGTANG: Explore the Nature and Culture of Mountain

Posted on November 18, 2018September 22, 2022 by nsadmin

The variety of treks in Nepal is something that not every country around the globe can challenge. The country of Great Himalayas is a major destination for anyone who dares to conquer some of the highest mountains in the world. Along with the world famous Everest trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek, the Langtang valley is yet another popular destination among the trekkers all around the world.

About Langtang Valley

Far from the bustling cities, away from the crowd and pollution, there are many valleys and villages in Nepal where one can find real pleasure and adventure. Langtang valley is such one valley which comes in the list. Langtang lies in the Himalayas of Nepal and is also easily accessible from Kathmandu; the capital city of Nepal. The Southern border of the region is only 32 kilometers away from Kathmandu. Thus, Langtang region provides a trekker with a wonderful chance to conquer the handful of beautiful destinations in the region without going very far from the capital city.

The Langtang valley is known as the “treasure house” of Alpine plants. Beautiful flowers in the summer beautify the Langtang valley in a very beautiful manner. The alpine vegetation and the forests of rhododendrons and oaks are the home to numerous animals which includes Red Panda and Snow Leopard.

The ethnicity of Langtang Region

The Tamang are the indigenous people living in the Langtang area. The people live a very simple life with tourism and yak farming major source of their livelihood. However, their languages, costumes and their religious practices are similar to the Tibetans. It is also said that they are originally from Kerung, Tibet who later mixed with the Tamang from Helambu region. The traditional houses made up of stone, beautifully carved wooden porches and the beautiful Gompas add more beauty to the Himalayan valley of Langtang. The Langtang valley is a perfect reflection of the mixture of natural beauty and the culture of Tamang communities.

Despite the huge natural beauty and cultural experience, the Langtang is still among the least explored trekking destinations in Nepal. The trekking around the region came into light only after the British mountaineer Bill Tilman entitled the valley as “the most beautiful valley in the world” after his exploration of the valley in 1949.

Best Time to Trek around Langtang Region

The best time of the year to trek around the Langtang valley is autumn (Sep – mid-Dec), and spring (March-May). This is because the climates during these periods of the year are mild and generally dry, making your trek easier to accomplish. The autumn offers the trekkers with the spectacular views of the mountains while the spring will please you with the wilderness and beautiful rhododendron blooms.

However, this does not mean that trekking in other seasons of the year must be strictly avoided. The mid-December to February is the winter and the climate is extremely cold with heavy snowfall in the area. Most of the teahouses in the trail are also found to be closed during this time of the year. Likewise, the summer and monsoon are dominated by the rainfall that makes the trail slippery. The leeches are more common and the mountain views might be disturbed during the monsoon. However, if you are all ready to face these challenges, you will be awarded the best of the wildflowers. The number of trekkers during this time of the year is also comparatively few which provide a greater probability to interact with the locals.

The Mountains of Langtang

There is no doubt that the Langtang region offers several mountain views. The Langtang Lirjung (7,234 m) in the north is the tallest peak in the Langtang region. The south borders with the Chimse Danda ridge, which is crossed by the Ganja La Pass (5,122 m) and Jugal Himal with the highest point of Dorje Lakpa of 6,989 meters.

This is not enough though. The other peaks in Langtang includes Langtang Himal( 6,475 m), Mt Gangchhempo (7,246 m), Kimsung (6,745 m), Ganesh Himal I (7,406 m), Ganesh Himal II (7,150 m), Ganesh Himal III (7,130 m), Langshisha Ri (6,310 m), Morimoto (6,750 m), Pongen Dooku (5,930 m), Yala Peak (5,560 m), Ganjala Chuli (5,844 m), Tembthang (5,702 m) and Mount Manaslu (8,163 m).

Apart from the mountains, the snow glaciers are also the other attractions of the Langtang region. Langtang is one of the richest homes of Glaciers in Nepal with almost 70 glaciers. These glaciers are something which completes the Langtang region. Plus the lakes are also an integral part of the Langtang region. Lake Gosaikunda, Parvatikunda, and Dudhkunda are among the lakes which are not only beautiful for eyes to capture but also carry religious importance.

Langtang National Park

The beautiful pristine National Park covers the majority of the Langtang area. The national park is the fourth national park in the country and lies at the altitude of 6,450 meters. Spread over the total area of 1,710 sq km (660 sq mi), the national park was established as the first Himalayan national park of Nepal in 1976. The sacred lake Gosaikunda also falls within the area of the park. The highest point in the park is the Langtang Lirjung Mountain (7,245 m).

The park harbors many species of plants, 21 among them being endemic to the park. There is the abundant growth of birch, silver fir, Sorbus microphyla, and twisted Rhododendron camapanlatum near the tree line. However, the Sal (Shorea robusta) dominates the southern part of the park.

Likewise, the national park is home to a wide range of animals. The Assamese monkey, grey wolf, Red Panda, clouded leopard, snow leopard, musk deer, and Tibetan sheep are common animals in the park. The temperate forest in the park is home to the Black bears. Adding on, the park is home to more than 250 species of birds among which 12 species are under the list of globally threatened list. The park also supports many wetland-dependent birds.

Trekking in Langtang Region

Trekking in the Langtang region is a wonderful trek to experience with many mountain peaks and rich diversity. Several routes are available to trek around the Langtang valley. Each route will provide amazing views of the mountain peaks, mixed culture and traditional lifestyle of the local people. You can also go camping in the region which adds more life to your trek. This will provide an extra chance to get closer to the local community and lifestyle. Here are the trekking destinations that Langtang valley offers to you:

Tamang Heritage Trekking

The Langtang Trek offers the trekkers with an opportunity to get another step closer to the local culture of the region. The Tamang Heritage Trek will guide you through the local lifestyle of the region on the lap of Langtang range and the Ganesh Himal.

Nepal Sanctuary Treks offers the trekkers with total 11 days long trekking package of Tamang Heritage Trek with an aim to learn the interesting, an ancient and a unique lifestyle of Tamang with a blend of the stunning scenery of the nature. The trading route between Tibet and Nepal also falls within the trek.

The livelihood of the people is mainly based on agriculture and animal husbandry. Starting from Syabru Besi, you will continue trekking via Tatopani, Thuman, Timure, and Birdim. You will see the locals dressed up beautifully in their traditional customs. The trekkers can also enjoy the local dances and songs at Golijung, Brimdang and Gatlang villages near the Tibetan border.

Explore the Traditional and Untouched Heritage and Lifestyle of Indigenous Tamang People.

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Ruby Valley and Ganesh Himal Trek

Ruby Valley and Ganesh Himal Trek is a wonderful adventure walk through the path of Bill Tillman; the first explored the Langtang valley. The trek serves the trekkers with the unspoiled Tamang and Gurung villages, beautiful farm terraces and the mesmerizing views of the Ganesh Himal and various mountains of the Annapurna, Langtang, and Manaslu region. The trail takes you through the beautiful forest of Rhododendron and the majestic waterfalls. The trekking from the Ruby valley can also be extended up to Tsum valley if you are really looking for more adventure in the Himalayas.

Laurabina La Trek

The Laurabina La Trek around the Langtang valley is a challenging yet a beautiful trek to accomplish. The incredible mountain ranges and the sacred Gosaikunda lake are the major attractions of the trek. The lake is a religious site for the Hindus. According to the ledgends, Lord Shiva created the pond by cutting a glacier to drink water after swallowing poison.

The cheese factory also comes along the trail which you can pay a visit if you want. The 17 days long trek will take you not only through the holy lake and mountain views but also offers an amazing wilderness experience. You might also encounter troops of monkeys and the Tibetan snow cock on your way. The Buddhist prayer flags beautifully decorate the trail. Kyanjin Gompa and Sing Gompa are the Buddhist monasteries that occur in the trail.

Langtang Trek

Trekking to Langtang is a classic trek that drives the trekkers through the ethnic , beautiful villages and holy Gosaikunda Lake. The Langtang valley, Kyanjin Gompa, Alpine meadows, impressive glaciates valley drive any trekker crazy about the trekking in the region. Starting the trek from Syabru Besi (1420 m) and reaching to Gosaikunda Lake (4,381 m) is the major achievement of the Langtang Trek.

The Langtang Trek is a beautiful trek to the Himalayas that provides with the chance to explore the unique Tibetan culture. The wilderness of flora and fauna and enchanting views of the mountains add an extra flavor.

Langtang Trek for the Perfect Wilderness and Cultural Experience Between the Mountains

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Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Everything You Want to Know About

Posted on November 16, 2018September 22, 2022 by nsadmin

Trekking in mountains is a wonderful experience to get in life. The Mount Annapurna (8,091 m) is the 10^th highest mountain in the world and the trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) is one of the best trekking destinations not only in Nepal, but also among the best trekking destinations that ever existed on earth.

In recent years, the number of trekkers to the Sanctuary has increased substantively, in part because the Sanctuary forms the base of one of the major routes to the peaks of the Annapurna range. The Annapurna Sanctuary is now part of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project.

When it comes around trekking in Nepal, then trekking around the Annapurna Base Camp is never a bad idea. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek takes you to experience the beautiful mountains of Nepal. The typical Nepali villages, local people and their lifestyle are yet other aspects to enjoy during the trek.

Breathing the pure and fresh air, the classic trek to Annapurna Base Camp is the trail that leads to the magnificent mountains that touch the horizon. The spectacular Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Annapurna South, Tent Peak, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna warmly welcome the trekkers with their white beauty. The diverse landscape and the mountain culture will never let you forget the trip in your lifetime.

Trek Highlights

Ace to the highest Point Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m)
Explore charming Gurung village Ghandruk and Chhomrong
Unobstructed views of Himchuli , Annapurna South, Barahi Shikhar, Annapurna I, Glacier Dom, Gangapurna , Annapurna III and Machhapuchhare
Walk through pine and rhododendron forests
Pass through picturesque village and cultivated fields
Scenic flight to and from Pokhara
Splendid views of sunrise from Poon hill
If you are lucky you might encounter with musk deer, Ghoral, pheasant
Enjoy the melodious sound of varied range of birds.
The unique and remarkable experience of natural and cultural splendor

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People and Local Culture

Along the trail to Annapurna Base Camp, trekkers will encounter people with various ethnic groups. The lower elevation is populated mainly by the Brahmins and the Chhetries. As we ascend towards the higher elevations, we will find the Gurung and Magar people. These people have a history of bravery for being a part of the Gorkha Army in the ancient time. The Mongoloid Himalayan people live in the Himalaya. The pretty village women folk will welcome you with their smile no matter what they are busy with.

Annapurna Base Camp: Getting to and Back

The trek to Annapurna Base Camp starts and ends in Pokhara. The beautiful city of lakes is situated 200 km west from Kathmandu and is an excellent place to relax you after a long hike to Annapurna. Pokhara is easily accessible from the capital city of Nepal; Kathmandu by both roadways and airways.

The trek actually varies from 7 to 12 days to/from Pokhara and 2 to 4 days transportation day to/from Kathmandu. The physical fitness of the trekkers also makes a great difference. The most common route to Annapurna Base Camp is via Ghorepani Poon Hill. The trekking route is relaxing and also settles the trek in between 10 to 12 days.

The trek can be started from Syabru Besi and following Rimche to reach Langtang. The trekkers then follow the Kyangin Gompa, Chergo RI towards Thulo Syabru, Sing Gompa and Gosaikunda Lake and then returning back to Kathmandu via Dhunche.

Best Time to Trek in Annapurna Base Camp

Autumn (mid-September to mid-December) and spring (March to May) are the best seasons to trek to Annapurna Base Camp. The time between June and August receives frequent rainfall thus can hinder the mountain views. However, this part of the year can be important for the botanist since the plants regenerate.

The spring offers the trekkers with the beautiful bloom of the rhododendron flower. When the rays of the sun strike on the surface of the Mount Dhaulagiri, it feels like there could be no heaven more beautiful than this. Although the autumn and spring are the peak trekking seasons, trekkers can also go during the winter (December – February) if they prefer to avoid the crowd. The only thing about trekking in winter is that the weather is colder.

Requirements for the Trek: Physical Conditions and Experience

Talking about the difficulty of the trek, the trek to Annapurna Base Camp is a moderate trek which does not consist of any vertical climbing. Thus, the trek does not require advanced physical conditions and experiences. Anyone who loves walking in nature and with an average fitness level can easily accomplish the trek. The trekkers must be passionate about the walk and determined to walk almost 5 to 7 hours every day carrying a light day pack.

Trekking through the Ghorepani will be a brilliant idea since it will help your body to adapt the high altitude. Trekkers can prepare themselves for the trek prior to starting the walk. For instance exercises and jogging for some weeks before starting the trek can be a plus point. This can greatly assist to enhance your strength and stability. It will be great if you are already involved in trekking before but not to worry for the beginners too. The trek does not require any special technical skills and thus Annapurna Base Camp trek can be your first trekking destination.

However, if you are a patient of several conditions like heart, lung, and blood diseases then you are highly recommended to consult your doctor before going on for the trip.

Annapurna Base Camp Trekking Permit

The trek to Annapurna Base Camp requires a special permit to complete the trek. It actually requires two trekking permits for the trek. The first one is the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) card. Similarly, the next permit is Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card. The trekking permits are not easily available every here and there. If you are planning to trek to Annapurna Base Camp then Nepal Sanctuary Treks is here to arrange and prepare tailor-made Annapurna Base Camp trek with every required trekking permit.

Also be careful that there are no any ATM machines on the trekking trail to Annapurna Base Camp. So, trekkers need to withdraw enough cash in Pokhara or Kathmandu so that you will not run out of money in your trek. Make sure you will have enough cash in your hands during the whole trip.

Accommodation in Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The trek to Annapurna Base Camp provides the trekkers with a number of options for accommodation. The only problem might be the houseful of the Tea Houses during the peak seasons. Although there might not be the availability of running hot water in every village, trekkers will be provided with at least a bucket of hot water for shower. They will provide you with a private room with twin beds. The rooms might be small but they do not compromise the cleanliness of the room.

More luxurious and comfort hotels are also available in the trek. Staying in these luxurious hotels during your trek to Annapurna is referred as “Annapurna Trek with comfort.”

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Meals in Annapurna Base Camp Trek

When it comes about food, trekkers will taste the authentic Nepali food during their trek. The trekkers are expected to eat where they stay because the meal is the primary source of income for the tea houses rather than the lodging. Daal Bhat is the most common food. And the best part is you can add the rice for free. So, trekkers can eat until they tummy gets filled without worrying about the extra money. Plus the Daal Bhat is filling, healthy and contains a good amount of calories that will supply continuous energy during the trek.

Beer, Soda, tea, coffee, hot lemon, and water are widely available. But, the prices go increasing as you head up closer to the base camp. Chocolates and sweet bars can be bought along the way which is really useful in the trek.

What to Bring during Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The clothing requirements for the trek depending on the time of the year you are planning to trek. However, here is the general outline of what you will need during your trek to Annapurna Base Camp:

Footwear

Hiking boots: Good ankle support.
Hiking shoe or sneaker
Sandals: Slip on sandals or flip-flops
Woolen socks, Light socks

Outwear

Down jacket, Fleece jacket

Clothing

Hats
Insulated Gloves
Hiking pants, cargo pants
Gaiters (for winter departures)
Thermal Underwear/layers
Light to mid-weight synthetic top
Mid-Weight synthetic bottoms
Extra synthetic top lightweight
Bandana or scarf
Waterproof rain over pants
Rain jacket / Poncho
Waterproof backpack rain cover

Gears

Day backpack: 25-35 L backpack (depending on one’s preferences).
Duffle bag
Small lock: Bring a small lock for your duffle bag.
Sack to organize and store your dirty laundry
Trekking Poles
Sleeping bags: -10° C /14° F for a tea house
Trekking Towels

Personal first aid kit:

Note: we provide a comprehensive group first aid kit but please bring personal medications and other items you might use regularly such as:
Any personal medications
Malaria prophylactic tablets
Blister treatment (Compeed patches are the best)
Re-hydration powder e.g. Dioralyte
Analgesics (paracetamol, ibuprofen, and aspirin)
Plasters and zinc oxide tape
Throat lozenges
Diamox (helps with acclimatization)

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Personal Equipment

Two water bottles (Nalgene wide mouth bottles are the best)
Water purification tablets (Pristine, Biox Aqua or Aqua Mira)
Favorite snack food
Books, iPod and cards, etc
Trekking poles (optional)
Camera with spare batteries and memory cards
Insurance certificate
Earplugs (optional)
Hand sanitizer (optional)
Personal wipes, Biodegradable soap
Passport size photograph if you plan on obtaining your visa on arrival
Passport and airline tickets
Supply of personal toiletries, including insect repellent, sunscreen, tissue paper, ChapStick, and travel sized containers
Books on tape and a Walkman (optional, useful when light is dim)
Pocket knife (optional, useful for peeling fruit. Do not pack in carry-on bags.)
Short Wave Radio (optional)
Favorite Herbal Tea or decaf coffee (optional)
Eagle Creek or large Zip Lock bags for packing loose items (optional)
Any prescription medications you require (in their original containers)
Poles and mini-crampons

TIHAR: The Festival of Lights and Flowers

Posted on November 2, 2018February 10, 2023 by nsadmin

Tihar; also known as Deepawali or Yama Panchak is a main part of Nepalese culture that signifies happiness, luck, and harmony among all the people and is considered the second-biggest festivals in Nepal after Dashain. This festival is celebrated countrywide by Nepalese people, irrespective of their caste and creed. Amid this celebration people respect and worship crows, dogs, cows, Laxmi; the goddess of wealth and luck, brother, Gobardhan, and reverence of one’s body or self (also known as Mha Puja).

Tihar is also known as the “Festival of Lights and Flowers”, as the entire nation is decorated with vibrant flowers and used immensely to adorn houses and offices. Additionally, the colourful flowers that blossom in every house’s garden embellish the entire surroundings. People also lit candles, electric lights, and oil lamps inside and outside houses throughout the festivals to make it illuminate at night and welcome Goddess Laxmi.

When is Tihar celebrated?

Tihar generally falls in either October or November (Kartik Nepali month). However, the date of observing the festival depends upon the cycle of the moon. Tihar is a five-day-long festival that starts with Kaag Tihar (the worshipping of the crow) in Trayodashi of Kartik Krishna Paksha and ends with Bhai Tika in Dwitiya of Kartik Sukla Paksha. According to the western calendar, the festival occurs in October or November. This year, the festival occurs from 5^th– 9^thNovember 2018. Likewise, the festival will be celebrated from 25^th – 29^th October 2019.

Legends behind Tihar Festival

Many stories prevail about the celebration of the festival. One of the popular stories is associated with Yama; the “God of death” and his sister Yamuna. According to the myth, Yama used to be very busy with his work that he stayed away from his sister for a long time. Yamuna desired to meet her brother Yama Raj, so she took the help of various animals like a crow, dog, and cow as a messenger to call her brother to meet her. But Yama didn’t come to see his sister Yamuna. Finally, she herself went to visit her brother. After meeting him, Yamuna worshipped Yama with five coloured tika and offered him with garland of Globe Amaranth flower (Makhamali in Nepali) and a special gift prepared by her. Yamuna made a circle with Dubo (Cynodon dactylon) dipped in mustard oil. Yamaraj being pleased by the love of his sister then announced that someone who receives tika from their sisters will not die on that day.

Another famous story suggests that there was once a girl named Yamuna whose brother was ill and prayed for his long and healthy life. One day, when the Yama visited to take her brother with him, she was performing a Puja for her brother. Yamuna convinced Yama to be a part of the Puja and performed the ceremony with both. Yama was pleased with her and asked her to wish for anything she wants. Yamuna then asked for a long and healthy life for her brother. Since then, Tihar is celebrated as a special occasion to pray for the long and prosperous life of the brothers.

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The Five Days of Tihar Festival

Each day of the Tihar festival holds its own importance and significance behind the celebration. Here are the five days of the festival and the events occurring on the respective days:

Day 01: Kaag Tihar- Worshipping the Crow

The Hindus regard the crow as the messenger of the Yamaraj: the god of death, and thus worship it on the first day of the festival to bring good luck to their houses. The people worship the crow and offer them food, rice, and sweets in the morning. They also believe that the caw-caw sound of the crow is a sign of the sadness of the crow that brings bad luck. Thus, on this day, people please the crow by feeding them to prevent it from bad happening and wish to bring them good luck.

Day 02: Kukur Tihar- Worshipping the Dog

On the second day, people worship the most loyal animal to humankind: the dog. The day is a chance to express gratitude towards dogs for safeguarding our homes and lives. Generally, male dogs are worshipped and are put on with a red tika on their forehead and a beautiful garland around their neck. The people also treated delicious food to dogs. Almost every dog on the street is found with a tika and a garland. The dogs are also regarded as “the gatekeeper of death” and believed that they can predict the dangers in the future days. The dog is also the steed of the fearful Bhairab, the god of destruction.

Thus worshipping the dogs on this day helps to prevent the dangers in the year to come. The Nepalese policemen also offer beautiful garlands to the patrol dogs to express their contribution to national security.

Day 03: Gai (Cow) Tihar/ Laxmi Puja- Worshipping the Goddess of Wealth

People worship the cow on the morning of the third day. The cow is a holy animal in Hindu mythology and is considered as goddess Laxmi. The cow is of huge benefit to people in the past. Milk, dung, and urine are used for purification in various rituals. The cow is also considered a mother since we fed upon the milk since our childhood. Thus, on this day the cow is offered tika, garland, and delicious foods as an indication of thankfulness.

The following afternoon is all busy with cleaning and decorating the houses. The houses are painted with Red mud and cow dung. Colorful rangolis are made of various designs on the main gateway of the house and lit a candle or a Diyo at the center. Small footprints are made from the mixture of flour and colour that are painted from the rangolis in the Puja room. These footprints are believed to guide the goddess Laxmi inside the house.

The evening is more special, for it particularly involves the worshipping of the Goddess of wealth: Goddess Laxmi. Along with the Goddess, the people also worship money and other various properties. The people request the Goddess to come into their house and bless them with wealth and prosperity in life. While the elder people are busy worshipping the Goddess in the evening, the children visit their neighbors singing Deusi and Bhailo songs.

Day 04: Govardhan Puja and Mha Puja

The fourth day celebrates three different kinds of Puja. The first one is Goru Puja, which is the worship of Oxen. Likewise, Govardhan Puja is performed by making a hill of Govardhan Parbat by using cow dung.

At night, especially the Newar community performs Mha Puja. The Mha Puja is the ritual of celebrating own existence and understanding own value. The members of the family sit in a row and make a mandap for each of them which is decorated with flowers, sweets, garland, and lights. The female member of the family offers the other members of the family Sagun which consists of fried eggs, sweets, lentils, and local wine made from rice.

Day 05: Bhai Tika

The last day of the Tihar is Bhai Tika and is the most auspicious day of the festival. Bhai Tika is a reflection of the love and the bond between brothers and sisters. The tika is believed to strengthen their love and make the bond stronger.

On this day, brothers and sisters come together to celebrate their love and bonding. Sisters apply seven different colors on the forehead of brothers, draped with garlands made from Sayapatri (Marigold) and Makhamali flowers around their neck, and serve them with various sweets and dishes. They encircle their brothers with mustard oil so that Yama; the god of death cannot reach them, and thus they will live a long life. The sisters pray for the long and prosperous life of their brothers. The brothers also put the Tika on their sister’s forehead, bow their heads and make a promise to protect her till the end of life, and surprise their sisters with special gifts and money.

Traditions during the Tihar Festival

The festival of Tihar is a matter of great fun for the Nepalese people. There are various traditions that are associated with the celebration of the festival, which includes:

Lights

Lights are the most important part of the festival. Along with cleanliness, each house is beautifully decorated with various coloured electric lights. The hand-woven oil lights (Diyo) and candles are lit and put on the entry points, and the windows of the houses. As dusk approaches, the entire country seems to be floating on the ocean of lights.

Deusi Bhailo programs

During this festival, young people and children gather in groups and visit door to door singing melodious songs like Deusi and Bhailo. They sing and dance to different cultural and modern songs. The groups are offered various items like fruits, sweets, Rotis, money, and flowers. The Deusi Bhailo groups in return give a blessing to the house that the goddess Laxmi will reside in the house and pray for the prosperity of the householder.

Interested In the Various Traditions of Tihar Festival?

Homemade dishes

Tihar is also famous for the number of dishes prepared during the occasion. Varieties of Rotis are prepared in almost every house which includes Sel Roti, Anarasha, Fini, Chini Roti, and many more. Particularly famous is the Sel Roti made by cooking a mixture of rice flour, ghee, sugar, milk, and many other ingredients. The mixture is poured into the hot oil by hand in a circular shape and cooked until it turns golden on both sides.

Firecrackers

The firecrackers are also a major part of Tihar celebration. The sounds of the firecrackers from near and far are heard. Everyone from a child to an adult seems to enjoy playing with the firecrackers.

Playing cards

Playing cards is one of the favourite parts of the festival. Families and friends gather around and enjoy playing cards. Gambling is banned in the country. However, people can have a quality and fun time with family by playing cards.

With ecstasy and full of delight, the most colourful and dazzling festival comes to an end after these five glorious days.

Canyoning in Nepal: Happy Time with the Water Falls

Posted on October 28, 2018September 22, 2022 by nsadmin

Canyoning is the act of traveling or a journey through canyons that includes the techniques of outdoor activities like hiking, climbing, jumping, swimming and many more. Although, canyoning is often taken as hiking through the canyons, in technical terms it is an activity that relate to ropes and rattles, involves climbing up and down a canyon technically and includes technical swings. The activity usually involves the climbing of the remote and rough structures through navigation, route finding and other travel skills.

Apart from the rocks, gorges and the walls, the waterfalls are also the excellent options for the canyoning activity. Nepal is geographically diverse country with varied landscapes and many natural resources. Luckily, the nature has blessed Nepal with so much of the natural resources which include many shallow and swift rivers and majestic waterfalls making their way between the hills. These waterfalls not only add beauty to the environment, but are also the sites for adventures for thousands of people all around the world. The majestic waterfalls, rock slides, and the giant jumping rocks are something really exciting to experience in Nepal. This makes Nepal a favorite destination for those who love to challenge the adventure like canyoning. The canyoning, along with trekking, climbing, and rafting, now is being an important element that promotes the tourism in the mountain region in Nepal.

Canyoning is something one should not miss if he/she is a true adventure lover and admires the beauty of the nature and the falling water and river. If these things really attract you, then Nepal is a better place to experience thrilling adventure. Nepal always welcomes you with various canyoning sites that will offer you worth the lifetime experience. Here are some of these places in Nepal to enjoy the canyoning:

Canyoning in Jalbire (The Lamo Jharana), Chitwan

It won’t be wrong to say that Jalbire or “the Lamo Jharana” is the best and most favored canyoning destination in Nepal. The Jalbire canyoning is a once in a lifetime experience which will allow an individual to experience the amazing waterfalls, rock slides, and the jumping rocks. The Jalbire is also regarded as “the best attraction” in Nepal by many tourists. There are almost 5 waterfalls with the height about 40-50 meters. Depending upon the climate, canyoning can be done in all these waterfalls. But, the volume of the water in the waterfalls should be understood closely.

Location of the Lamo Jharana: Distance and Route

Jalbire lies on the way to Narayanghat from Kathmandu. It is 100 kilometers away from the capital city of Nepal; Kathmandu. A road trip of about 2 to 3 hours in a private vehicle will leave you to Jalbire from the Kathmandu. There is a display board on the road after you get off the bus. Now you need to walk about 95 meters to reach the Lamo Jharana. It will take you no more than 20 minutes.

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Canyoning in Kathmandu

Being the capital of the country and having the only international airport of the country, Kathmandu is the first priority for the most tourists who enter Nepal. Kathmandu has always amazed the tourists with the facilities in many ways. Whether it comes to culture and tradition, or various adventure activities, Kathmandu has become a wonderful destination in Nepal. There is place in Kathmandu for canyoning as well which includes canyoning in Kakani, Sundarijal, and other places around the city.

Canyoning in Kakani

Kakani is the canyoning site which is available near to the Kathmandu city. The Kakani is about 35 kilometers away from the Ring Road of Kathmandu and thus is very easily accessible. There are two canyons: Phung Phungye (185 meters) and Chhahare (145 meters) situated in the Dhansar village and Jurethum village in the Kakani area. Both the canyons are perfectly settled with Phung Phungye especially with the view of the panorama of the Ganesh Himal, Manaslu and the Langtang regions. Sufficient amount of water falls from the canyons in all seasons and is neither too hot nor too cold.

Reaching up to the site

A ride on a private vehicle or a public vehicle, both are available. One can catch a local bus from Machhapokhari, Kathmandu to reach up to Kakani. After the vehicle drop you to the Kakani village, you now need to walk for about half an hour to reach the canyon of the Phung Phugye. The canyoning activity is of about 2 to 3 hours, so you can start your canyoning on the same day you reach the site. After the completion of the canyoning, trek back the same way to reach the road and catch the bus.

In case you find it a bit hectic in the same day, you can also plan to stay the night in the Jurethum village. The next morning you can take village tour and walk around to see the fish farm where the farmers farm the world-famous Japanese Trout Fish.

Canyoning in Sundarijal

Sundarijal meaning “beautiful water” is a beautiful single day trip for canyoning. Sundarijal is also popular for hiking, swimming, picnic, and biking. Resting in the bottom of the Shivapuri National Park, it is 17 kilometers north-east of Kathmandu. Swimming and canyoning in the waterfalls of the Sundarijal are the most enjoyed activities by the local people in Sundarijal. The bus park in Sundarijal is only about an hour drive away from Thamel, Kathmandu. From Sundarijal Bus Park, buses are available that will drop you to the Sundarijal village. The canyoning site is further half an hour uphill from the Sundarijal village.

There are total of 5 canyoning sites among which one is the dry/wet fall and the rest four are the wet falls:

1^st fall 15 meters damp/wet

2^nd fall 20 meters wet

3^rd fall 18 meters wet

4^th fall 35 meters wet

5^th fall 45 meters wet

Canyoning in Charaudi

The Charaudi is 56 kilometers west of the capital city, Kathmandu. The Charaudi is about 35 minutes drive from Kathmandu city. If you are looking for the rafting adventure in Nepal, then Charaudi is an ideal option. Monsoon would not be a problem if you are planning for Charaudi adventure. The amazing waterfalls, fun walks and the pool at the bottom to splash you up will add extra adventure. The Charaudi also provides the opportunity to have some chitchat with the children of the village who come to the pond for swimming.

Canyoning in Pokhara

The popular tourist destination, Pokhara, always serves the tourists with a variety of the activities. Admiring the beauty of nature, getting into the culture and experiencing some thrilling activities, all are possible in Pokhara. Pokhara also offers the thrilling experience of climbing the rocks accompanied by the waterfalls. The sport spot is about one hour ride away from the main city towards the trails of Lwang Ghaley Village, VDC Ward No.5/6. The spot is in the height of 1350 meters above the sea level. The canyoning involves the climbing through the cave; fall down from the waterfalls that are 45 meters and 75 meters long and then finally resting down in the clear ponds.

Canyoning in Bhotekoshi

Not very far from the capital city, Kathmandu, has the Bhotekoshi served tough and challenging canyoning swing in different sites. There are four canyoning sites which include the Jombo Khola (3 hours), Handi Khola (4 hours), Kabre Khola (3 hours 45 minutes), and Galung Khola (6 hours). Thus, canyoning in Bhotekoshi is the best destination for someone who is looking for several attempts in a single trip. Also, one can easily return to Kathmandu after their canyoning activity on the same day.

Any Queries about the Tough and Challenging Canyoning in Bhotekoshi? Feel Free to Ask

Canyoning in Trishuli

Trishuli River is one of the most popular destinations to experience the water sport in Nepal. Along with rafting and Kayaking, Canyoning is also a popular sport in Trishuli. The impressive gorges, the speed of the water and the accessibility to the site have been additional plus point to the site. Trishuli canyoning offers you with the challenging adventure of hanging down a vertical cliff and being splashed by the water overhead.

What do you need?

You will need the following materials during the canyoning. You are suggested to carry them along with you:

Sunglasses and Sun block cream
Closed shoes( sports shoes, canyoning shoes, or Keens)
Fitting clothes to wear under the wet suits
Clothes for change
Some extra money for snacks or anything extras
A water bottle

Preparing for the Canyoning trip

Although canyoning is fun and full of excitement, chances of accidents still prevail. The high water flow/ hydraulics, flash floods, Hypothermia and Hyperthermia, Being lost, and Rock fall are some of the hazards associated with the adventurous sport of canyoning. Safety suggestions by the guides must be strictly followed by every single person that participates in the activity. In case you don’t the guide also have the right to exclude from the tour.

Flexible clothes which fit your body
Do not wear any jewelry for safety
Tie your hair and make pony tail back to the head if you have a long hair for safety
Tie your hair in a ponytail back to the head if you have a long hair for safety

Maha Shivratri: A Tribute to the God of Power and Destruction

Posted on October 28, 2018September 22, 2022 by nsadmin

Nepal celebrates dozens of festivals every year and each festival carries their own cultural and religious significance. Being a multi ethnic, multicultural, multi-traditional and multi-religious country is the main reason for the wide range of celebrations throughout the country. Among these various festivals celebrated in the country, ‘Maha Shivratri’ is the one observed with great joy and energy.

Maha Shivratri by the name means the “Great night of Lord Shiva.” Maha Shivratri is an annual festival celebrated in the 14^th day of the dark fortnight of Magh month according to Hindu lunar calendar. The festival falls on late winter generally in the months of February or March before the arrival of spring. There is a Shivratri in every luni-solar month of Hindu calendar, but the Maha Shivratri falls only once a year.

The festival of Maha Shivratri is celebrated in honor of the god Shiva and observed in the night. The festival is of huge importance for the Hindus in Nepal, but also for the Hindus in India. The festival is greatly celebrated in Nepal and India.

Lord Shiva: The Deity of Maha Shivratri

Lord Shiva is one of the principal deities in Hindu mythology. The deity is known by many names: Mahadev, Pashupati, Nataraja, Bhole Nath, and many others. The deity is also a symbol of power and destruction. Lord Shiva has a unique appearance: the hair piled up on the top of the head with the crescent moon and the Ganga River.

The Shiva lives in Mount Kailash, a mountain in the Himalayas. He sits on the skin of the tiger, crossed legged with a serpent around his neck, a water pot in his right and holds a trident on which a damaro: a small drum is bound. Nandi: the bull is the vehicle of Lord Shiva and the Trishul is the weapon. The deity holds the Trishul in his one hand and another hand is usually empty and postured in such a way that it symbolize the Lord is giving blessings and protection.

The Lord is also regarded as the god of destruction. The god has three eyes, the third eye at the center of the forehead. The third eye is very powerful and opens only occasionally. The light in the third eye is very powerful and thus the opening of the third eye is the sign of occurrence of something destructive. Lord Shiva is the deity who is always high. Thus, in Maha Shivratri, the devotees prepare the special foods mixed with the ‘Dhaturo’ as the sacred or blessed food.

Legends behind Maha Shivratri Festival

There are several legends behind celebrating the Maha Shivratri festival:

The Neelkantha

There is a saying that during the churning of the ocean (Samundra Manthan), the poison was found. Lord Shiva drunk the poison and stored it in his neck to save the universe and the people from the harmful effects of the poison. The other gods danced all night to keep Lord Shiva awake so that the poison will have a least effect on him. Fortunately, the poison did not show any effects on Lord Shiva. Instead, it turned the neck of Lord Shiva into blue color from where comes the name Neelkantha. Since then, the night is being celebrated as Maha Shivratri every year in honor of Lord Shiva and his contribution to save the entire world.

The Shiva’s Dance

Another legend behind the festival is that the Maha Shivratri night is the night when Lord Shiva performs the heavenly dance of creation, preservation, and destruction. The Nataraja- the god of dances is also taken as another manifestation of Lord Shiva. Many classic dancers and the devotees perform the Tandav, and Lasya in the name of Lord Shiva.

The story of the wandering hunter

According to another legend, once there was a hunter wandering in search of food and got tired and hopeless that he could not find any animals in the forest. After a long walk, the hunter waited on the branch of the wood apple tree. The hunter without realizing there was a Shiva Lingam at the bottom of the tree, started to throw the leaves of the Woodapple so that he could attract the deer and kill it. Instead, Lord Shiva pleased with hunter’s patience and the leaves offered to the Shiva Lingam. The Lord then appeared in front of the hunter and blessed the hunter with knowledge and wisdom. From that day, the hunter not only stopped hunting animals for food but also stopped eating meat. This day is then celebrated as the great Maha Shivratri since Lord Shiva showed the hunter the path of light and wisdom.

Wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati

The people in North India regard this day as the day of the wedding day of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The people celebrate the Shiva temples and in the evening there occurs a procession called ‘Bhole ki Barat or Shiva’s Barat’. Others also regard this day as the birthday of Lord Shiva.

Religious Significance of Maha Shivratri

The Maha Shivratri is mainly a symbol of overcoming the darkness by the light. People believe that the worship in Maha Shivratri will drive them against darkness and ignorance in life and the world. The devotees chant prayers, do fasting and perform yoga in the honor of Lord Shiva. The celebration is also done for the positive attributes development within themselves such as self-restraint, kindness, honesty, and forgiveness.

Know More about the Great Night of Lord Shiva

The Hindus believe that the stars in the Northern Hemisphere are at the ideal conditions and thus will raise the spiritual energy if an individual. Lord Shiva’s principle is believed to be the most active on the day of Maha Shivratri. The devotees stay awake the entire night and chant “Om Namah Shivaya.” This is called ‘Jagaram’ and is mainly performed to fight against the darkness and gain the light.

Celebrations during the Maha Shivratri

The devotees do various rituals during the day of Maha Shivratri. The festival is more special for the women. The married women worship Lord Shiva and keep a fast for the well-being and prosperity of their husband while the unmarried women fast so that they will be blessed with an ideal husband like Lord Shiva in the future. Some fast without drinking even a drop of water while some consider eating some fruits and milk during the day.

The devotees wake up early in the morning than the regular days and take a bath in a holy River as far as possible. After that, the devotees visit the nearby Lord Shiva temple and offer the Shiva Lingam with milk, flowers, water, ghee, sugar, yogurt, honey, and many other things.

The celebration continues from day to night. However, the official celebration starts from the midnight after the priest offers the vermilion, Beal leaves and the light lamps to the temple. The priest offers the milk, water, and flowers every three hours to the Shiva Lingam. Devotees of Lord Shiva go to the temples and worship Lord Shiva. There is a large crowd in Pashupatinath temple on the day of Maha Shivratri since the temple is the largest complex of Hindus that worships Lord Shiva. The devotees are queued up in a line all day long to worship the deity.

Apart from the worship and the religious chanting, another interesting part of the day is that one can witness many Shadhus around the premises of the temple. The Shadhus come to the temple not only from Nepal but also from India. Nowadays Shivratri is popular for smoking weed (Marijuana). In Nepal, it is illegal to smoke for the purpose of recreation, but the day of Shivratri is almost overlooked. Thousands of pilgrims and Shadhus gather together on the jungle behind the Pashupatinath temple and smoke weed on the night of Maha Shivratri.

People normally wear the garland of Rudraksha during the day of Maha Shivratri. The Rudraksha is believed to have sprung from the tears of Lord Shiva. Also, many people put a three striped tika of the holy ash on their forehead. People believe that praying Lord Shiva and fasting the entire night bring good luck in their life. They believe that Lord Shiva will drive them toward the path of positivity and wisdom.

In the evening of the day, there is a ritual to light the fires on different parts of the city. Almost every corner of the city is lit with fire. The fire indicated that one day, we all will end up burning in the fire and thus we have still more things to do. The fire is the symbol of letting go the old patterns and draw new patterns in the future. This is for a great start in life.

Any Queries About the Maha Shivratri Rituals?

When is Maha Shivratri in 2019 and 2020?

The Maha Shivratri is an annual festival. However, the exact date on which the festival falls is not always the same. The Maha Shivratri falls on the 4^th March 2019 on Monday and 21^st February 2020 on Friday. The day of Maha Shivratri is also a national holiday in Nepal.

Places for One Day Hike around Kathmandu Valley

Posted on October 25, 2018September 22, 2022 by nsadmin

In case you have limited time and energy for longer treks or hikes, Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal provides you the opportunity to experience hiking in the vicinity of the valley. Kathmandu is bounded by the hills covered with the forests, terraced farms, and the villages. The hike around Kathmandu valley offers you with the scenic beauty of the geography, mountains, culture, and lifestyle of the people in a short time and a chance to enjoy some time in peace away from the crowd of the city without going too far.

The major advantages of trekking around the valley are that you can see the beautiful view of mountains without reaching the higher altitude plus you need not be very far from the city either. Here are some of the short trekking routes around Kathmandu valley you can consider if you are looking for the trekking experience in a relatively shorter time:

Champa Devi Hike

Champa Devi lies in the southeastern part of Kathmandu valley separating it from the Makwanpur district. Champa Devi hill is the third highest hill in Kathmandu at the altitude of 2,278 meters. The Champa Devi hill hiking is popular during the day of Nepali New Year. Whether an individual wishes to see the entire Kathmandu valley, wants to see the mountain ranges, wishes to go to the higher land or to see the remote villages, a one day hike to Champa Devi hill is the best option.

Apart from hiking experience, a hike to Champa Devi offers the hikers with the magnificent view of the mountains and the mountain ranges like Ganesh Himal, Annapurna, Langtang, and Gaurisankar. Similarly, the hike offers you with the view of Nepal historical places such as Bagmati River, Khokana, and Pharping. You can view the highest hill around the valley that is Chandagari on your left and the Phulchowki on your right.

Among the various trekking routes that lead you to Champa Devi summit, the most commonly used is the one along the Dollu Valley through the pine forest. The route is often used, easily noticed and easy to follow. The route starts from the Hattiban Resort, and the trip will take about 3-4 hours to get there and return.

Another route, across the Dakshinkali temple (goddess Kali), walking through the dirt roads also leads you to the destination. The route is steeper and takes almost 4 to 6 hours.

Buses are available from the Old Bus Park. Go there and catch a bus to Dakshinkali. You can ask the conductor to stop at the Hattiban resort or to Pharping. And, thus begins your trek.

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Shivapuri Hike

The hike to Shivapuri is a prominent hike in Kathmandu at an elevation of 2563 meters and is only 25 kilometers away from the capital. Shivapuri is a good choice to get into the nature still being near to the bustling capital city; Kathmandu. The hike starts from Budhanilkantha temple, 8 km North of Kathmandu. You will see the statue of sleeping Vishnu on a single stone. From Budhanilkantha, about 2 to 5 hours hike will take you to the Nagi Gumba: a Buddhist monastery. Resting in the elevation of 2340 meters, the Nagi Gumba is a popular destination for Buddhist as well as locals. After a visit to the Gumba, you will again proceed for about 2 hours to reach our destination. From the top you will view the beautiful Kathmandu valley as far as you can. The origin of the Bagmati River: Baghdwar can also be seen from the top which also makes the trek a religious. The birds and the surrounding hills add extra attraction to the hike.

Experience the Splendid Hike to Shivapuri

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Namobuddha Hike

Namobuddha lies 38 kilometers east of Kathmandu at the altitude of 1,750 meters. Namobuddha is a holy place for the Buddhist and is famous for the Buddhist Gumbas and shrines. The stupas are such a beautiful reflection of the Buddhist art. This place also carries an ancient history. According to legend, once a prince offered himself to the starving tiger in this place. Situated at the top of the hill, Namobuddha provides you with the beauty of the Everest and Langtang Himalayan Range. You can see the cropped farms throughout your trek reflecting the agriculture practice in Kathmandu. The trek also provides you with the marvelous view of the landscape in all directions. The Hiking takes a minimum of 5 hours.

The hike starts after a drive to a place called Dhapasi and ancient Newar town Panauti. Heading upwards to the north-east direction and crossing a suspension bridge we cross many agricultural villages. An hour steep climb leads us to our destination point Namobuddha.

Phulchowki Hill Hiking

Phulchoki meaning the ‘Hill of Flowers’ is the highest hill around Kathmandu Valley (2,782 meters) and named after the name of a Hindu goddess. The Phulchoki hill is a famous trekking route for the vegetation and bird watching. The forest of Phulchowki consists of Rhododendron of different colors, including pure and white. Different species of birds such as Flycatcher, Rufous-bellied Niltava, Yellow-browed Tit, Red-billed Leiothrix, Bronzed and Racket-tailed Drongos, Grey-headed Wood keeper, Nepal Cutia, and Black-winged Cuckoo shrine can be noticed during the trek.

Since Phulchoki is the name of the goddess, there is a shrine of the goddess at the top surrounded by flags. People celebrate a month-long festival during March/April. Other festivals also take place in July and August. You will also find a telecommunication tower at the top. Being near to the temple, it is also wrapped up with the flags. This tower at the top of the highest hill around the valley is where technology meets culture.

The eastern Annapurna and Gaurisankar range view and the view of the Kathmandu valley are the other attractions of the hike. Phulchoki is an only place that experiences snow in the periphery of the valley.

You will get buses and minibuses from the old Bus Park that will drop you up to Lagankhel. You can catch minibus to go to the Godavari from there. Your hike starts as soon as you get off the minibus in the Godavari.

Kakani to Bhanjyang Hike

The Kakani hike features the pine, rhododendron, and oak forest along the route. Kakani to Bhanjyang is a short hike requiring only about 4 hours of walk and not so difficult to climb either. The trip also offers the beauty of the mountains.

The Kakani hike features the pine, rhododendron, and oak forest along the route. Kakani to Bhanjyangis a short hike requiring only about 4 hours of walk and not so difficult to climb either. The trip also offers the beauty of the mountains.

You will get a bus from Machhapokhari (near New Bus Park) to reach up to Kakani. You pass through some covered and uncovered parts of strawberry fields. There are hotels if you want to spend a night. There is a memorial park built in the memory of the Thai Airways which crashed in 1992. You can visit the park if you want. You can view the amazing views of the Manaslu, Langtang, Gaurisankar and Ganesh Himal and enjoy the time taking pictures.

Going down to the right, you can get tickets to enter the Shivapuri National Park. After 15 minutes you will reach the army checkpoint. Climbing little more, you arrive GurjeBhanjyang. From here you can also make a trek to Budhanilkantha.

Sankhu to Bajrayogini hike

Sankhu is the prehistoric town particularly famous for its shape: Sankha-shaped. The Sankhu is 16 kilometers far from Katmandu and it will take about one hour drive from the capital. The Sankhu to Bajrayogini trek offers you with the chances to explore the Newari town, and its culture. You will walk around the bank of Sali River: a pilgrimage site. The trek then continues towards the Bajrayogini Temple which is about 2 km from Sankhu. The beautiful hills, unspoiled forest and the various shrines and statues are the attractions of the hike to the Bajrayogini temple. The Siddha caves are the must visit in the temple. There are eight Siddhas (Gurus) of Hindus and the four caves where the Siddhas are believed to have lived.

Trek Through the Sankhu and Explore Newari Cullture

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Sundarijal Hiking

Sundarijal hiking starts at Budhanilkantha. Sundarijal is 15 kilometers away from Kathmandu towards north-east with a maximum elevation of 1,500 meters and is a gateway to Chisapani for many hikers. The hike starts from Budhanilkantha temple. 10 minutes’ walk from here will lead you to Shivapuri Conservation Area. The Sundarijal hike is famous for the views of the waterfalls and hilly ridges. You receive a chance to explore the wild jungle during the trek along with the beautiful mountain views. Nagi Gumba is another attraction of the trek which is a famous place for Buddhist. The foreigners often come to Nagi Gumba for meditation. It usually takes two hours for the trekkers to reach the top and that landscape around you makes the trip even shorter.

Nagarkot Hiking

Nagarkot lies 32 kilometers east of Kathmandu at the altitude of 2,195 meters. A trek to Nagarkot offers you with the fabulous mountain views of Annapurna, Langtang and Everest Ranges. Also, Nagarkot is very famous for the sunrise and sunset if you are staying a night there.

To get there, you can get a bus to Sakhu from the Bhaktapur. Almost 4 hours walk between the pines forests will take you up to Nagarkot. You can look the nearby villages as soon as you reach Nagarkot and feel the spectacular beauty of the sunset in the evening.

You can catch a bus or hire a taxi to return to Kathmandu.

Suryabinayak Pilot Baba Aashram Hike

The hike to Pilot Baba Aashram starts from Suryabinayak. You can also spend some time to visit the temple. The trail guides you through the jungles and bushes of Rhododendron and needle wood. You can also see the locals collecting the fodders for their livestock along your trail. You will climb sharply to meet the road that leads to a picnic spot. From here, you can now see your destination: the Pilot Baba Aashram temple. One more hour of walk and then you will stand beneath the entrance of the temple. From the hill, you can see the beautiful hills and the Suryabinayak jungle.

After exploring the temple, the Suryabinayak temple is only a five-minute walk away from the entrance. The entrance to the temple requires you to pay the assigned fee for the maintenance of the temple. You can also try some of the local snacks and fruits from the vendors. Now, following the right uphill for some time and then again to the downhill, you will reach the small road that connects to the village. Furthermore, a left turn from the trail and then through the red mud road will lead to the flat walk for sometimes. Then, you will reach the Y junction, from where you will follow left to finish.

Amitabha Monastery Hiking (Seto Gumba)

Amitabha Monastery lies in the South of the Kathmandu Valley. It is also called a Seto Gumba or White Gumba. The White Gumba lies at the altitude of 1,500 meters. The Amitabha Monastery or the White Gumba is a holy place for the followers of Buddhism. Hiking to the White Gumba starts from Swayambhu. The trek is almost five hours long and provides the trekkers with the opportunity to witness various avatars of the Lord Buddha inside the stupas. The peaceful place is surrounded by green villages and provides a beautiful view of the Kathmandu valley. The trip to the Gumba is refreshing and entertaining.

Pharping hike

If you are looking for a short hike that could drive you towards nature, the local lifestyle and the culture all at once, then Pharping is most probably the best choice. Situated at the south of Kathmandu, Pharping is only an hour drive away from Kathmandu and a beautiful place that comprises of the beautiful temples, monasteries and the Newari village.

Passing through the jungles and pine woody areas for half an hour, you will reach four beautiful monasteries and Guru Rinpoche’s huge statue. Devotees gather around the Gumba on Tuesday and Saturday. The Gumba also provides with the wonderful view of the central and western Himalayan range. The Newari village the Pharping is another interest of the hike. The village reflects the typical Newari lifestyle.

The Banthali Village Hike

Banthali Village is situated 40 kilometers east of Kathmandu, beyond Panauti village lay a peace and calm Banthali village. Standing on the top of the Banthali village, one can admire the beauty of nature with terraced farms and the thatched village. The views of the hills and mountains in every direction you turn are enough to melt yourself. The dense forest of the Rhododendron and several species of birds make the place not less beautiful and lovely than heaven. The Banthali village trek will be the best option for someone who is looking for some time in peace and for someone who wants to spend some time listening to the bird’s sound. Banthali also offers you the cycling trials if you are a cyclist.

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Must-try Foods while in Nepal

Posted on October 25, 2018 by nsadmin

Nepal is a small country with multiple caste, culture, tradition, and languages. If we take a closer look to Nepalese diversity, there comes a large diversity in food. The foods in Nepal are the part of the culture and varieties of foods are prepared on different occasions. The foods represent the various indigenous people living in the different parts of the country. The mountain region of the country is influenced by the Tibet and this has foods of Tibet influence. The Terai also has a wide variety of the foods because of the agriculture production.

The foods in Nepal are prepared with the local spices and have their own unique taste. The dishes are tasty enough to make anyone eat the dish again. The foods are easy and fast to cook and are entirely different taste for the visitors. The mouth-watering foods with the best spices will stay in your mouth for a longer time. Here are some of the must-try foods in Nepal that one must try during their visit in Nepal:

The Daal Bhat Tarkari

Daal Bhat Tarkari is the perfect set to kill your hunger. It is consumed by the Nepalese as their daily meal. The set comes with Daal (Lentil soup), Bhat (rice), Tarkari (curry), Chutney (pickle) and some seasonal salad. The plate also contains the Mashu (meat) and Papad (Thatched Chickpea) if you wish.

Dhindo

Dhindo is a traditional Nepali food which is mainly popular in the hilly and the mountain region of the country. The Dhindo is prepared by constant mixing of the maize and buckwheat flours in the hot water. The Dhindo is often served with the local vegetable curry, pickle, or Gundruk (fermented leafy green vegetable) soup. The Dhindo also taste best with the local chicken. The dish is very popular among the internal as well as external tourist and is served by most of the restaurants in Nepal.

Momos

When it comes about Nepal, the momo is the fastest and the most popular food. The Momos are available in most of the corners of the capital city and popular in other parts of the country. The Momos are bite-sized dumplings which are filled with vegetables, meats, and even sweets. The most popular form of the momo is steamed but it also comes in the other forms like Kothe momo (fried) and C-momo (comes with a spicy hot ketchup soup). The momos are handmade and fresh.

Samay Baji

The Samay Baji is the authentic Newari dish in Nepal. The dish perfectly makes you full if you are hungry enough. The plate of Samay Baji consists of many items. Chatamari, beaten rice, Bara, barbecued and marinated buffalo meat (Chhwela), fried boiled egg, black soybeans (Bhatmas), spicy potato salad, finely cut ginger (called Palu), boiled beans with species, green leaves (Saag) and Aaila (the homemade Newari alcohol).

Juju Dhau

Juju Dhau is sweetened yogurt that is special of Bhaktapur. The Juju Dhau is the “King of the yogurt” in Newari language. The Juju Dhau is prepared from the Buffalo milk and is very traditionally prepared. The buffalo milk is boiled, sweetened and stored in the decorative natural red clay pot called maato ko kataaro. The pot is covered by another clay pot and is kept in a warm place. The pores in the clay pot allow the excess of the liquid to evaporate and the thick, creamy portion remains in the pot. The best part of the Juju Dhau is that they are sold in the market in the same clay pot. The Juju Dhau is available in various sizes according to your wish. Small pots of the Juju Dhau are also available. Your visit to Bhaktapur is not completed until you taste the Juju Dhau.

Sel Roti

Sel Roti is another famous traditional dish in Nepal. The Sel Roti is specially prepared during the festive season in Nepal. The Roti is made from the rice flour mixed with other ingredients like milk, cooking oil, ghee, sugar, butter, cardamom, cloves, bananas, and others according to personal taste. The well-mixed flour is then poured by the hand on the hot oil in the ring shape. The Roti is turned and deep-fried in the oil until the color changes to lightly brown on both sides. The Roti is sweet and crunchy in taste. You can taste the Sel Roti in the street stalls in the cities and often eaten as breakfast with some curry or yogurt.

Pani Puri

Pani Puri is a famous food of Nepal that is found in almost every street in Kathmandu. If you want to try something spicy in Nepal, then grab a plate of Pani Puri. A plat of Pani Puri comes with the round, hollow, fried, crispy Puri filled with the mixture of boiled potato, onions, green chilies, and noodles. You will get 6 to 8 pieces of puri per plate of your order. You are also provided with the flavored water in a cup or a jug. Pour the water in the Puri and then wide open your mouth so that the Pani Puri fits into your mouth.

Aalu Tama

Aalu Tama is a unique food in Nepal prepared from Aalu (potato) and Tama (young bamboo shoots). The Aalu Tama is a curry dish and is normally sour in taste. The Aalu Tama is sometimes prepared with the bean called ‘Aalu Tama Bodi.’ The Aalu Tama curry is easily available in the Newari restaurants. The Buff meat and the black-eyed beans also go with the Aalu Tama curries which add the taste in the curry.

Yomari

Yomari is another unique dish made by the Newars of Nepal. The Yomari is unique not only in its taste but also in its shape. The Yomari is steamed dumpling consists of the outer covering layer made from the rice flour and filled inside with the sweet substances like chaku. The Yomari can also be prepared by filling with the Khuwa and finely spiced lentil. The food is an important part of Newari society and is special during various events and festivals. The shape of the Yomari is representation of one half of the shadkona, the symbol of Saraswati and wisdom. The dish is also said to work against cold. If you are visiting Nepal in cold seasons, then Yomari is perfect.

Yomari is the only food in Nepal that has its own festival. The Newars celebrate the festival during December which they call Yomari Punhi, as a representation of the end of the rice harvest day.

Lassi

The Lassi is a thick, sweet and delicious yogurt drink. The Lassi is prepared by mixing with sugar and water. The refreshing drink is found almost in the cafes and the streets. However, the water used in the Lassi is something to take care of if you are drinking in the street. There is a famous place to drink Lassi near Kathmandu Durbar Square. The Lassi is served with some nuts on the top of the glass. There is normally crowd gathered around the shop so, it makes take time to come to your turn.

Sukuti

Sukuti is a traditional dried meat food in Nepal particularly a staple dish of Limbu people. The Sukuti is eaten as a snack in most of the Nepali kitchens. The meat is first cut into thin strips by removing the fat. Then the thin slice of the meat coat with the spices, chilies, and pepper and then let out in the sun or hung over the fire to make it dry. After the meat is well dried, then it is prepared in a pan by mixing with the onions, green chilies, tomatoes, garlic and ginger that add more taste to the dish. The mouth-watering taste is something that will make you lick your fingers. The Sukuti is also served as side dishes such as Sukuti ko achar, with tomato sauce.

Thukpa

The Thukpa is a Tibetan noodle soup, originated from the eastern part of the Tibet. There are many varieties of Thukpa. The Amdo Thukpa is famous among the Tibetan and Himalayan people of Nepal. The Thukpa is a soup of the noodles which has many other ingredients such as the carrots, cabbage, onion, garlic, and many spices. The Nepalese Thukpa has green chilies, chili powder, masala, and sometimes ketchup which gives it hot and spicy flavor. The Thukpa in the Himalayas will be the best choice of food to beat the cold. It is also available in the cafes in and outside the Kathmandu valley which can order as chicken, egg, vegetable, mixed or Buff Thukpa.

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve: The Only Habitat of the Wild Water Buffalo

Posted on October 24, 2018September 22, 2022 by nsadmin

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is one of the protected areas in the Terai of eastern Nepal. The reserve was established in 1976 AD and extends up to the area of 175 sq km. The reserve touches the Sunsari, Saptari, and Udayapur districts. The Reserve ranges between the altitudes of 75 m (246 ft.) to 81 m (266 ft.). Being situated at the bank of the Saptakoshi River, the reserve consists of the mudflats, freshwater marshes, reed beds, and arable land and thus is one of the best and finest bird watching destinations in Asia.

The primary aim to set up the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve was to protect the last population of the Asiatic Wild Water Buffaloes in Nepal. The major habitats include wetlands, grasslands, and small patches of the Riverine forest. The Reserve is also included in the Ramsar Site (a wetland of international importance) in December 1987.

More about Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

The Koshi Tappu is rectangular shaped which is about 10 km in length and 10 km in breadth. The Reserve also allows fishing after you have a fishing permit. The vegetation mostly consist of tall grasslands. The local villagers collect grasses from the jungle within the Reserve once in a year, generally in January which they use to thatch the roofs.

How to reach Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve?

The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is easily accessible by both air and road. Regular flights are available from Kathmandu to Biratnagar. The flight duration is about 45 minutes and offers you with the amazing views of the Eastern Himalayas including Mount Everest, Makalu and Kanchenjunga. It is only 3 to 4 hours’ drive from Biratnagar to reach the Reserve.

The Reserve is almost 560 kilometers away from Kathmandu. A drive of almost 14 hours along the Mahendra highway will lead you to the Reserve. The journey goes through the hills of Mahabharata and Churia Range. The journey by the road will be a good option if you are willing to witness the hillside village and countryside lifestyle. If you have enough time, then you might prefer travel by this method.

Also, if you are looking for a more adventurous journey, then you can also choose white water rafting all the way from Sunkoshi River to SaptaKoshi River. The 8 to 10 days exciting trip is one of the most exciting white water rafting in the world. The adventure will end at the Chatara and then transfer to Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve.

Best time to visit the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

The best time to visit the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is between October till March. This is because; one can witness the migratory and resident birds on the barrage and the main channel of the river during this period of the year. Also, this time prevents the heavy rainfall during the monsoon season and the extreme heat of the summer. Besides, October to March offer the visitors with the beautiful views of the mountains. The world’s fifth highest mountain Mount Makalu (8475 m) can be seen from the park.

Flora and Fauna of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

Although, the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is the smallest protected area in the Terai belt of the country, the reserve is very rich in the floral and faunal diversity. The dominant vegetation is Riverine deciduous forest, grassland, and marshy field. About 68% of the Reserve is occupied by the plain grasses while only 6% is covered by the forest. The yearly flood and the domestic animals grazing keep up the pastures of the park. The wetland of reserve harbors 414 plant species. The most common among them are Eichhornia, Hydrilla and Azolla.

The Reserve is also home to many animals where about 31 species of mammals along with that, more than 200 species of fishes are found in the Reserve. The Gharial Crocodile and Mugger limit to swamps and marshes. Also, the forested ecosystem of the Reserve is the habitat for 15 globally significant species. The Reserve is also home to the wild elephant. The Reserve also supports some 20 other animal species which includes Hog deer, wild boar, spotted deer, Blue bull and Rock Python apart from the significant contribution in protecting the wild water buffalo.

**The Asiatic Wild Water Buffalo (Bubalus arnee) in the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve**

The wild water buffalo is highly endangered species restricted to South and Southeast Asia. In Nepal, the Koshi Tappu Wildlife reserve is the only habitat for the animal. The global population of the wild water buffalo is estimated less than 4000 individuals by the FAO. Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve contains the second largest population of the wild water buffaloes after the Kaziranga National Park in state of Assam. And, the Reserve is the sole habitat for the wild water buffaloes in Nepal. During the establishment, there were only 63 individuals of the animal in the Reserve. The census carried out in 2016 revealed the total population of the wild water buffalo in the reserve is 432. According to census of 2011, the ornithologists recorded 17 Bengal tigers from the 9 different sites in 34 km stretch of Koshi River.

The Koshi Tappu being the only habitat for the animal, there always occur the threat to the animal in case of the disasters like flood, fire and endemics. Thus, to set up a second ecologically favorable population in the Chitwan National Park, the animals were trans located in 2017. A pair of the wild water buffalo (one male and one female) was trans-located to the Chitwan National Park on 25^th January 2017.

Birds of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

Apart from being rich in wildlife, the Reserve is an excellent destination for birds, particularly the water birds and many migratory birds such as sarus from Siberia. Some of the noticeable birds in the Reserve are Watercock, Dusky Eagle owl, Black-headed Cuckoo-shrike, and White-tailed stonechat. The total of 485 species of birds were identified in the park which include varieties of ducks, ibis, storks, egrets and herons, as well as the endangered swamp partridges and Bengal florican.

The Greater Adjutant; an endangered member of the stork family was observed in Koshi Tappu Reserve in the gap of 22 years. The last time the bird was seen in the Reserve was in 1995. The bird mainly lives in some parts of India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka but the number is decreasing due to the habitat threat. At present, there are only 800 individual of Greater Adjutant in Assam, 150 in Bihar and 200 in Cambodia.

A new species of the Nightjar was spotted in Koshi Tappu in 2018 increasing the bird species count of the country to 863. The Nightjar is nocturnal in habitat and visit Nepal from Pakistan, South China and Northern India.

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The Status of the Birds in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

In spite of being a vast array of the migratory and the residential birds, the birds in the Reserve are not safe. The numbers of migratory birds have decreased in the recent few years. The wetlands are drying and are seriously damaged by the flood the Saptakoshi River resulting to the loss of habitat for the migratory birds. This has resulted to the decrease in the number of the birds that enter the Reserve by the onset of the winter.

In addition to this, the random use of the pesticides in the agriculture by the local people is also turning out to be a threat to the bird species. This has caused the death of several bird species in the Reserve. This has not only decreased the number of bird species in the Reserve but also lowered the number of bird watchers, ornithologists, avian visitors and researchers visiting to the park.

Activities in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

The activities you can take part in during your visit to the Reserve are;

– Bird watching

– Jungle safari

– River trips and Boat riding

– Jeep safari

What to carry?

The visit to Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve does not need special items like in trekking to the high Himalayans. However, here are some of the items you should bring with you:

– Camera and Binoculars to enjoy fully observing animal life and abundant of diverse birds.

– Sun screen, sun glasses and a hat

– Hiking shoes

– Light colored and casual cloth that will mix with the nature

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GHANDRUK TREK: Itinerary to the Beautiful Gurung Village

Posted on October 17, 2018September 22, 2022 by nsadmin

Trekking has always been one of the most loved adventure activities since the past. Nepal is a diversified country with respect to the landscapes and topography. The lush green forests, the majestic mountains, the multicultural people have made Nepal a favorite place for the tourists. Whether it is for sightseeing, exploring the culture or trekking, Nepal has become the most preferred destination among the world.

Ghandruk is a beautiful town and a Village Development Committee (VDC) in Kaski District in Gandaki zone of north-central Nepal. Ghandruk is the most scenic and popular trek that can be done from Pokhara. Ghandruk offers the majestic view of Annapurna mountain and a splendid sunrise and sunset. The Ghandruk trek is most popular for wonderful Gurung culture, the beautiful village, geographical differences and the fantastic views of the mountains of Annapurna (7219 m), Machhapuchhare (6993 m) and Himchuli (6411 m).

The Ghandruk village is also called Stone Village and Konda in local language. It is for sure that the trekkers will be more than happy and enjoy the Ghandruk trek as it provides clean stone steps up and downhill, beautiful mountain views, the trial is relatively easier and the highest point is only 2000 meters, so you do not even need to worry about altitude sickness. What a great combination, isn’t it? These may be the reasons why Ghandruk is the priority for those trekkers who want to go for a short trek in the foothills of Annapurna.

Attractions of Ghandruk

The major attraction of Ghandruk is the unique culture of the Gurungs living in the area. The Ghandruk entertains the tourists with the Gurung dances and allow the tourists with the opportunity to wear the traditional Gurung dresses and ornaments. The tourists are very pleased to experience the new Gurung attire and take pictures in the traditional style. The local food is also a major attraction especially for the foreign tourists. Adding on, Ghandruk also offers the tourists with horse riding experience. Tourists can also enjoy playing with snow in the upper hill of Ghandruk.

Trek Highlights

Best Season : Sep- May

Trekking duration : 6 days

Trekking Grade : A (Easy)

Maximum altitude : 1,940 m/6,364 ft.

Starting Point : Pokhara (drive up to Naya Pool (New Bridge) and then start the trek)

Ending Point : Pokhara via Phedi

Ethnicity : Gurungs

Himalayas : Annapurna (South), Machhapuchhare, Himchuli and Gangapurna

Mode of Trekking : Tea house

Highlights : Easy, short trek, mountains and unique Gurung culture

What should you carry?

Trekkers need not to carry a big bag during the trek to Ghandruk since the trek is short and easy and there are tea houses along the trial. However, trekkers should carry the following things during their trek:

A pair of comfortable trekking shoes, sandal and socks
Sunglasses and sunscreen cream
Toiletries
Down jacket Jacket
T-shirts
Fleece Jacket
Pairs lightweight wind – water proof pants
Set lightweight thermals
Neck Warmer
Rucksack
Water purification tablets or Steripen
Refillable Water bottles
Hat
Towel
Sleeping bag (rated -15(above) degree C during trek)
Pair of gloves (Thinner)
Extra pair of clothes
trekking pole
Camera
Flash light and battery

Best season to Trek to Ghandruk

The Ghandruk trek trail is beautiful and easy to accomplish any time of the year except the rainy seasons. Mid September until May are the favorable season to trek around Annapurna that offers a lovely views. Summer (June to July) is also not preferred to trek in Ghandruk because trekkers may miss the amazing views from Poon Hill due to rainfall.

Itinerary

Day 1: Kathmandu-Pokhara: almost 7 hours’ drive

The journey to Ghandruk starts as you head off to Pokhara from Kathmandu. Pokhara is almost 200 km away from Kathmandu and it will take you around 7 hours to reach Pokhara in a tourist bus via Prithvi Highway. Drive by a tourist bus will offer you with the beautiful countryside views along your journey. Arriving Pokhara in the late afternoon, you can still have some time to roam around the beautiful city. If you prefer to take flight to Pokhara you have to leave from Tribhuvan Domestic airport terminal. The flight duration from Kathmandu to Pokhara is only 30 minutes which offers you spectacular mountain views. A walk along the lakeside or a bicycle ride around the Fewa Lake will be a refreshing activity. You can also consider an evening boating in the Fewa Lake.

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Day 2: Drive Pokhara to Naya Pool and trek to Ghandruk (1,940 m/6,364 ft.)

You will leave Pokhara early in the morning. You can take bus, or hire a taxi or a car to reach Naya Pool (New Bridge) or to Phedi. The transport means ends here and ahead is the path where you can start your trekking journey. From Phedi, the route starts up to the steep hill. Following the trail you will pass the Dhampus in your right and the ridges provides the fascinating views of the Annapurna and Manaslu.

You can also go to Birethati from Phedi. From Birethati, the route turns right crossing the Modi River and continuing the steep trial for about 4-5 hours to reach Ghandruk. The route will offer you with the beautiful views of the Machhapuchhare and South Annapurna.

Day 3: Exploring the Ghandruk village

This is a day to explore the beautiful village. You can enjoy the sunrise in the morning, the views of the mountains and the countryside. You can make time to learn lifestyle and culture of Gurungs. Ghandruk is the second largest Gurung village in Nepal and is typical in many aspects. There a traditional Gurung village, Gairi Gaun, towards the south of the Ghandruk, where the Gurungs grow wheat and barley.

Tourists can also try on the traditional dresses and take pictures for their memories. There is also an Old Gurung Museum in the village which preserves the culture of the Gurung. The museum is inside an old typical Gurung house and reflects the Gurung livelihood. Tasting the traditional Gurung cuisine is also something you must try during your stay in the beautiful village.

Day 4: Ghandruk to Landruk (1565 m/5,134 ft.) to Tolka (1700 m/5,577 ft.) to Pothana

Descending the steep trail, the journey reaches the Modi Khola. From here, trekkers start to climb up to Landruk village. It will take around an hour to reach Landruk. The trail passes through the paddy fields. Moving on, the trail turns little steep for about 20 minutes and then you reach Tolka. The trial now passes across the forest, and then a steep ascends to reach Deurali for about one and half hour. You can find tea shops between the Tolka and Deurali. The Deurali is a beautiful place and offers you with the beautiful view of the Pokhara valley. Now, leaving behind the Deurali, the route leads the trekkers towards the Dhampus via Pothana. Pothana is situated in the ridge of hills with spectacular views of the Annapurna Ranges, Fishtail and green valley.

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Day 5: Trek from Dhampus to Phedi and drive back to Pokhara

Accompanied by the views of Annapurna Himalayas and the beautiful village, it’s time to walk down the trail to reach Phedi. The walk of about 2 hours from the Dhampus will leave you to Phedi. From Phedi, it is only about a half an hour drive to reach Pokhara.

Day 6: Pokhara to Kathmandu

This completes your trek and now it is the day to get back to Kathmandu. You can travel to Kathmandu from Pokhara either by flight or bus.

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Lumbini Nepal: from Where the Buddhism Bloomed

Posted on October 17, 2018May 22, 2023 by nsadmin

Nepal is multicultural, multilingual and multi ethnicity nation where people are religious tolerance and peace-loving. In such a tranquil and beautiful country there lies Lumbini, where Siddhartha Gautam, the founder of Buddhism was born. Lumbini is in the plains of Terai, near to Indian border where Siddhartha Gautam (Gautam Buddha) was born. Lumbini is the pilgrimage site for devotees all around the world. If you are looking forward to a spiritual place to visit, Lumbini will be the best option for Lumbini provides an opportunity to witness the Birthplace of Gautam Buddha and the different stages of his life.

Lumbini means ‘the lovely’ in Sanskrit. Located in Kapilvastu district in Province no. 5, Lumbini is 25 kilometers away from Kapilvastu municipality. Lumbini nestled in the Terai belt of Nepal so it is only 20 kilometers away from India. Lumbini in total covers the area of 4.8 km long and 1.6 km width and divided into the two monastic zones with full of the monasteries where nothing like shops can be opened. A long canal filled with the water separates these two zones. The western monastic zone of the area consists of the Mahayana and Vajravana monasteries and the eastern zone of the area consists of the Thervadin monasteries. The water filled canal served with motorboats that offer tours for the visitors.

The Lumbini encompasses many temples and monasteries. There are more than 25 international monasteries built by the Buddhist countries from all around the world. Lumbini is famous worldwide for these monasteries as well as Mayadevi Temple, the Ashoka pillar, the ancient bathing pond and Bodhi tree. UNESCO listed Lumbini in a World Heritage Site due to the historical, cultural and religious importance it carries.

History of Lumbini

According to Buddhist tradition, Maya Devi was traveling to her parent’s home from her home in Kapilvastu in 642 BC. But suddenly, she went through labor and grabbed the branches of a tree and gave birth to Siddhartha Gautam. It is believed that the baby uttered: “it’s my final rebirth” and took seven steps as soon as he was born. For every step, he took immediately after his birth a lotus bloomed. Later, Siddhartha Gautam received enlightenment, became Buddha and founded Buddhism.

In 246 BC, Emperor Ashoka built four stupas and stone pillar during his visit to Lumbini. Many monasteries were built until the 9^th century. However, Buddhism declined after Islam and Hinduism arose and the sacred garden was lost for many years. A German archaeologist rediscovered the site in 1985.

Many Buddhists, as well as Hindus, visit the place every year to explore Buddhism as well as feel the peace in Nepal. Not only for Buddhist, Lumbini is also a holy place for the followers of Hinduism because they believe Gautam Buddha as another form of Lord Vishnu.

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How to reach the Lumbini

If you are traveling to Lumbini from the capital, Kathmandu, you can choose either by air or land. Nepal Sanctuary Treks arrange and prepare tailor-made Lumbini Circuit Tour as per your requirement.

By flight: The flight departs from Kathmandu Domestic airport and take about 40 minutes to reach Bhairahawa airport which is the nearest airport to Lumbini. Further it will take about 30 more minutes to reach Lumbini by vehicle.

By Driving: If you prefer to travel by road then Nepal Sanctuary Treks arrange private vehicle or bus to Lumbini. It is a long journey of about 8 hours. But, if you enjoy having a look at the rural life of Nepal, this will be a good choice.

Best time to visit Lumbini

Located in the south of Nepal, Lumbini experiences a subtropical monsoon climate. May and June are the hottest months. There occurs frequent rainfall during June to August and occasionally up to the end of the September. Climate during December to January is warm with the average temperature of 20°C which can sometimes fall to 8-10°C. It is a good time to visit Lumbini during October and November. The climate is favorable during this time of the year. Also, you can see many flowers around the temples that create serene and beautiful environment.Likewise, April and May is also an ideal time to visit Lumbini. The Buddha Jayanti, falls during these months where devotes celebrate grandly. Many pilgrims come to celebrate this festival during this time.

Major Attractions in Lumbini

There is no place perfect than Lumbini if you are looking for a place of cultural, archeological and religious importance. A tour to Lumbini is a walk with Gautam Buddha, one of the greatest men in the religious world, in a peaceful environment is what makes your soul happy. Here are the places to visit in the Lumbini trip:

Maya Devi Temple

The Maya Devi temple is one of the major attractions of Lumbini. The temple built in honor of Maya Devi, the mother of Gautam Buddha. The white colored temple is in a simple design, and the surrounding of the temple is perfect for morning meditation. The Maya Devi temple preserves the history of the mother of Gautam Buddha. According to Buddhism, Maya Devi gave birth to Gautam Buddha under a Banyan tree, and this temple stands exactly at the site of the tree. Thus being the exact spot where Buddha was born. There is a Bodhi tree nearby the temple where Maya Devi rested during her labor. Some pilgrims make their prayers sitting under the Bodhi tree.

Ashoka Pillar

Ashoka pillar is an inscribed pillar made with stones. Emperor Ashoka (the greatest king of India) built the Ashoka pillar in 246 BC along with four other stupas. The inscription on the surface of the pillar says that Lumbini is a tax-free-zone. Till date, there are 19 Indian pillars with inscription. Most of them are found in India, but the Ashoka Pillar in Lumbini the oldest one.

Puskarni Pond

Towards the south of the Ashoka pillar is a pond called Puskarni pond. Buddhist believes that Maya Devi took a bath in the pond before giving birth to Siddhartha Gautam. The baby Gautam Buddha was also had his purification bath in the very pond as soon as his birth. Nowadays, the devotees take a holy dip in the pond. In the surrounding of the pond, there are the remains of the brick pagodas and monasteries that present a view of the 2^nd century BC and 9^th century AD.

Sacred Garden

The Sacred Garden of Lumbini is popular as the birthplace of Gautam Buddha. It is the family home of the mother of Gautam Buddha. A visit to this site will help you explore how Buddha’s mother returned home, how Buddha was born and grew up.

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World Peace Pagoda

The world peace pagoda is one of the world’s greatest stupa situated outside the major compound of Lumbini and is easily accessible by bikes. The beautiful pagoda is white and demonstrates the golden statue of Gautam Buddha in a posture during the time of his birth. The Japanese Buddhist built the Peace Pagoda at the cost of one million US dollars. At the bottom of the stupa, there is a grave of a Japanese monk murdered by an anti-Buddhist during the pagoda construction.

Royal Thai Buddhist Monastery

The Royal Thai Monastery is a huge and marvelous piece of architecture in Lumbini. The large monastery lies in the north end of the pond made up of white marvels. The large white monastery standing against the blue sky is something one cannot take their eyes off. The blue-roofed meditation center is another masterpiece of art.

Myanmar Golden Temple

The Myanmar Golden Temple is one of the oldest structures in Lumbini. There are three prayer halls inside the temple. The Myanmar Pagoda Temple also consists of the Lukmani Pula Pagoda temple and another Burmese style pagoda similar to the Shwedagon pagoda in Yangon.

Lumbini Museum

The beautiful Lumbini Museum lies in the northern end of the Lumbini area. The museum preserves the pictures and artifacts of Buddhist sites not only from Nepal but also from the place all around the globe.

The Great Lotus Stupa

The German Tara Foundation built The Great Lotus Stupa. Along with the fantastic structure, it is mainly important because of the religious values it carries within itself. The measurements for the construction of the stupa is according to the year’s old rules at the time of Gautam Buddha. In the center of the stupa, there lies a meditation hall of diameter 20 meters.

Dharma Swami Maharaja Buddha Bihar

The beautiful Dharma Swami Maharaja Buddha Bihar is in Tibetan style. It lies outside the main Lumbini area. Every day 60 monks who live there do a Tara Puja in the Bihar. The art and color in the walls of the Bihar depict the Buddhist art.

Zong Hua Chinese Buddhist Monastery or the China Temple

The China Temple is a beautiful and eye-catching pagoda style temple. The calm environment around the temple gives every visitor with the sense of an ancient, peaceful city.

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Kudan

Kudan is a beautiful place to visit in Lumbini. It has huge mound of the structural ruins situated 4.5 km south of Tilaurakot. This was the place where King Suddhodhana met Lord Buddha for the first time after he returned from cosmic enlightenment. There are even a small pond close to Kudan Stupa where you can acquire a great deal about Lord Buddha.

Gotihawa

Gotihawa is believed to be the birthplace of the past Buddha Krakucchanda, who came before Shakyamuni Buddha. It is situated about 5 km. southwest of Taulihawa which has Asoka pillar standing on a slab. Adjoining the pillar towards its northeast is a huge stupa made by wedge-shaped Mauryan bricks.

Tilaurakot

Tilaurakot, is well-known for the archaeological remains of ancient Shakya Kingdom and the childhood home of Prince Siddhartha Gautama. It is located 27 km west of Lumbini where there are ruins and mounds of ancient stupas and monasteries made of kiln burnt bricks and clay mortar. A moat surrounded the remains and the wall of the city is made up of bricks.

Niglihawa

Niglihawa is a significant archaeological site situated about 8 km northwest of Taulihawa. The site consists quadrangular pond locally known as Niglisagar On the western bank of the pond there are two broken pieces of the Asoka pillar built by Emperor Ashoka during his pilgrimage. The pillar is 15 meter tall that bears two peacocks.

Sagarhawa

Located about 12 km north of Taulihawa, Sagarhawa is the forest site where there is a large rectangular pond locally known as Lumbusagar or long pong in Niglihawa village. The ruins of an ancient tank were excavated and identified by Dr. Alois A. Fuhere as the “Palace of the Massacre of the Shakyas”.

Devadaha

Devdaha is the ancient capital of Koliya kingdom located 38 km east of Lumbini near the village of Khairhani. Devdaha is a maternal home of Mayadevi, mother of Gautama Siddhartha and the place where Siddhartha spent his early childhood. It is a place where Lord Buddha visited Devdaha after seven years of his enlightenment.

There are several place of interests around Devdaha for instance Kumarbarti, Khayardanda, Bairimai/Kanyamai, Bhabanipur/Devidamar, Mathagadi (ancient weapons).

The Ramgram Kingdom

Ramagram kingdom was one of eight Kings who obtained Buddha’s relics and built a pagoda named Ramgram Pagoda situated 60 kilometers to the east of the sacred sites of the Buddha’s birthplace. Ramagram is a brick mound on the bank of the Jharahi River which is 7 meters high brick stupa comprising one of the eight Astha Dhatu (relics) of Lord Buddha.

Meditation Class

Everyone on 21st century have hectic schedule and seek for inner peace during their weekends or holidays. Lumbini is an ideal place for meditation that helps to unwind at least a while from every day’s life. While you are in Lumbini, you can join meditation class organized during full moon day inside the premises.

Mha Puja: the Self Worshiping Festival

Posted on October 9, 2018September 22, 2022 by nsadmin

When it comes to Nepal, there comes the unique culture, tradition,and diversity. Festivals are the immense part of Nepalese life. Whatever regions an individual belongs to, the festivals and the celebrations are observed in rejoice.

Usually, we worship a lot of gods and goddess in Nepal. But the celebrations in Nepal are not always devoted to specific gods or goddesses. According to Hindu mythology, god exists in every living creature and everything around us. There is a tradition in Nepal that celebrates the god within us.

While the entire Hindus in the country are busy celebrating the greatest festivals of the country; Dashain and Tihar, they are the Newars only who perform Mha Puja (Worshiping self). It is the worshiping of the god inside us. What could be a better way than worshiping self to worship the god within us? It is the celebration of the existence of owns life and understanding the importance of the life. The Newars worship their body because the body provides a symbol of existence and pray for their health. Also, it is said that Mha Puja is a way of purifying the body and let the evils and ignorance flood out.

The Newars consider the Mha Puja important not only for understanding oneself but also respecting the other’s role in the world. It is expected that the understanding helps us be kind and more responsible.

When is Mha Puja Celebrated?

The culturally rich Newar community celebrates the ritual festival on the fourth day of Tihar festival. The festival falls on the Newari New Year based on Newar calendar, Nepal Sambat. The exact date for the Puja is not fixed. However, this year the festival falls on 8^th November 2018 (22^nd Kartik 2075). While most of the country is enjoying the festival of Tihar, the Newars worship themselves in the evening of Goverdhan Puja; one day before Vai Tika.

Elements of Mha Puja

The festival of Mha Puja spreads the beautiful message to respect self-worth.The way of celebration varies from families to families. However, the elements required for the completion of the Puja are the same. The Mha Puja requires the following eight elements to complete. All these elements are supposed to balance the ecological energy and earn physical and spiritual boost.

Mandala

The Mandala is the most important element of Mha Puja. The Mha Puja is performed generally in the floor near the dining hall. The floor is first cleaned and sprinkled with holy water collected from the holy river or ponds. The people believe that the water will purify the area. The Mandalas are drawn for each member of the family on the front row. Thus, the total number of Mandala depends upon the number of family members in the family. There are also three extra Mandalas. The small Mandala at the top is for House-god. The other two are for the Yam raj, (god of death) and Jamaraj (god of life). Mandalas for the other household items like a broom, water pitcher, winnowing tray (naglo), etc. are drawn surrounding the main Mandala.

The Mandala is a colorful shape drawn by limestone and has eight-petal lotus inside a circle. There is a small circle at the middle of the Mandala drawn by mustard oil. The Mandala is beautifully decorated with the paddy and rice, flowers and Jajanka, and walnut with a lamp wick at the center. The Mandala is the representation of the good omen, long life and the capacity to tackle the struggles in the future life.

Itaa

Itaa means the handwoven cotton lights. The Itaa is prepared by pulling the cotton up to a certain length and twisting it into medium strands. They are normally two and a half feet long. The Ittas are firstly soaked in the oil and offered to the one who is worshiped. The receiver takes the Itaa by chanting the mantras in Sanskrit. The main household lay lights up the Itaa and put them in the rice lumps of each Mandala. The Newars believe that the Itaa is a symbol of being radiant and fragrant in front of the others. They keep the light burn for the whole time the Puja is performed.

Sagun

Sagun is the offerings made to a person during the Mha Puja after lighting the hand woven Itaa. Dahi (Yogurt) is the first Sagan that is received by the family members which is accompanied by the mixture of rice, vermilion powder, and Yogurt. The mixture is collectively known as Akshata. The Yogurt is the first Sagun and is taken as a symbol and believed that it blesses a person to enlighten himself in dark times.

The Khen Sagan is another Sagan that consists of Wo, fried fish, whole boiled and fried egg, buff meat, fried ginger, bean cake and Aaila (the local wine). The Wo represents the land; Fried fish means aquatic life, egg means the aerial life, meat means fierceness and Aaila represent the portion of life. Thus, the Khen Sagan as a whole represents the one’s control over other life of earth. The Newars also believe that the Sagun should be eaten before the light of Itaa gets off.

Fruits and Nuts

Different kinds of Fruits and Nuts are offered to the persons sitting next to the Mandala. The fruits and the nuts represent the fruitful and resourceful life. They are also the blessings of the earth to an individual. The fruits and the nuts include Tashi, walnut, sugarcane, local chestnut and many homemade sweets of different shapes like star, moon, etc.

The Newars believe that the god of death, Yamaraj, observes the Puja. They also believe that any person who observes the Puja will be resistant to death because of the spiritual and physical strength obtained from the Puja. There is also a traditional belief that the walnut roots the individual offer during the ritual will protect them against the Yamaraj until the roots rot which is almost impossible.

Flowers

The flowers are the important part of the Mha Puja. The flowers are beautifully arranged into a garland for every member of the Puja. The Newars call it “Gweswaan” and wear around their neck. The worshipers put around the garland as a symbol of a long and successful life.

Jajanka

Jajanka is a white cotton thread made from cotton. The threat is tied with the red cloth in the end and made a circle so that it has no end. The circular thread has a diameter of about 2 feet. The worshipers also wear the Jajanka around their neck. The Jajanka is a symbol of patience and encourages the person to be focused, confident and not to cross the self-limit. The Jajanka is also the representation of the mixture of the beginning with the end. The Jajanka is about the creation, maintenance and the fullness of life.

Nakin or Purohit

Nakin or Purohit provides the individual with the shower of the paddy, flower, chopped fruits, vermilion powder, aakhen (hand-milled rice) and taye in a kule (a wooden or bronze container) from the head of the worshiper. The whole ritual completes after the Purohit powers down the mixture and drags the broom from the Mandala of the House-God to the Mandala of the Jamaraj. The Nakin is thus an essential part of the Mha Puja.

What happens during Mha Puja?

After the Mandala is drawn on the floor, every member of the family sits in front of the Mandala and begins the Puja. The whole process is carried out by the main household lady. The main household lady puts the tika on everyone’s forehead and light up the wick next to the Mandala. She also offers the holy thread and the citron fruit to the other members as a symbol of anything good coming their way.

The house lady also carries a clay pot that contains yogurt. Each member of the family sitting for the Puja takes the yogurt from the pot and put it in their respective Mandalas. Also, the worshipers have whole boiled fried eggs, fried fish, fried ginger, bean cake and local wine made from rice. The local wine is called ‘Aaila’ which is poured three times in a small bowl. They continue to pour the Aaila in the bowl until the bowl does not set down to the floor.

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Feast: the end of the Mha Puja

The Mha Puja celebrates self-worth and the value of our existence. After the ritual of worshiping self, the feast is served for every member of the house. The worshipers destroy the Mandala with great care. The food served is arranged so that it resembles the design of the Mandala. There are beaten rice at the center and eight different dishes in the inner circumference of the plate. The members clean the floor perfectly after the Puja for the next day of Bhai Tika.

Protected Areas of Nepal: National Parks

Posted on October 7, 2018September 22, 2022 by nsadmin

A small country rich in biodiversity, Nepal, has not left any stone unturned to protect these species. Within a small area, Nepal has managed to set up many protected areas around the country. These protected areas mainly consist of the forested area. The areas are so established that they occur in different altitudes and thus cover a large-scale of the landscapes that keep the large extent of the biodiversity in the country.

The Botanists have recorded 1,120 species of non-flowering plants and 5,160 species of flowering plants in Nepal that makes Nepal the 10^th richest country in flowering plants in Asia. 181 species of mammals, 844 species of birds, 100 species of reptiles, 43 species of amphibian, 185 species of freshwater fishes, and 635 species of butterfly are recorded in Nepal. Keeping in mind the vast floral and faunal diversity, the government of Nepal has established many protected areas in the country.

Among the various protected areas, the National Parks play the vital role to protect the species since the past. There are now 12 National Parks in Nepal to date.

Here are the protected areas of Nepal designated as National Park:

Chitwan National Park

Chitwan National Park is the first national park in Nepal established in 1973. The area of the national park during the time of establishment was 544 sq. km which was later extended to 952.63sq km. UNESCO World Heritage Site listed the national park in 1984.

Location

Nestled in the subtropical Inner Terai lowlands of south-central Nepal, Chitwan National Park covers five districts that are Nawalparasi, Parsa, Chitwan, and Makwanpur. The altitude ranges from 100m to 815m.

The diversity of Flora and Fauna

The tropical broadleaf forest with the most of 70% Saal (Shorea robusta) dominated floral composition of the park. The vegetation also includes 20% grassland, 7% riverine forest and 3% Sal with Chirpine (Pinus roxburghii). The grassland consists of almost 50 species while the riverine forest consists of the Khair (Acacia catechu), sisso (Dalbergia sissoo), and simal (Dalbergia sissoo).

The park is very rich in faunal diversity. The national park is especially famous for the conservation of one-horned rhinoceros. The park is home to a total of 68 species of mammals, 56 species of herpetofauna and 126 species of fishes. Also, the park is habitat for many endangered species like wild elephant, gaur, pangolin, monitor python, python, four horned antelope, Bengal florican, giant hornbill, lesser florican, black stork and white stork.

How to reach the Chitwan National Park

There are regular flights as well as buses available from Kathmandu to Bharatpur Chitwan. The flight duration is about 20 minutes and it will take you around 5 hours by road. Khasara, the park headquarters, and the Sauraha are the main entry points for Chitwan National Park which are 24 km and 18 km far from Bharatpur respectively.

Attractions

Bird watching
Nature walk
Tharu culture
Breeding centers
Canoeing
Cycling

Sagarmatha National park

Location

Established in 1976, with an area of 1,148 sq. km, the Sagarmatha National Park nestled in the Khumbu region of Solukhumbu district and is home to the tallest mountain, the Mount Everest. The national park is located at the highest elevation with its lowest point just over 2,800 meters.

The diversity of Flora and Fauna

The park has a unique composition of plants. The vegetation varies according to the altitude. The lower part of the park consists of fir, juniper, birch and rhododendron while the higher elevation consists of the scrub and alpine species. The area above the tree line is however bare and covered with snow.

The park is a home to many species of rare mammals like musk deer, snow leopard, Himalayan black beer, and Red pandas. Sagarmatha National Park encompasses more than 118 birds’ species that include Himalayan monal, red-billed chough, blood pheasant, and yellow-billed chough.

How to reach the Sagarmatha National Park

There are many options for the tourists to reach Sagarmatha National Park. About 135 km north-east of Kathmandu, the national park can reach through Lukla, Jiri or Tumlingtar. Also, hike form Salleri and Phaplu are another options.

Attractions

Everest Base Camp Trek
Gokyo lakes
The Khumbu Glacier
Ama Dablam Base Camp trek
Everest High Passes
Island Peak

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Bardia National Park

Location

Bardia National Park was established in 1988 with an area of 968 sq km. The national park is also the most undisturbed protected area in Nepal. The park is situated in the mid-far western Terai, in Bardia district, to the east of Karnali River.

The diversity of Flora and Fauna

Most of the part of the park is covered by the forest, with the mixture of grassland, savannah,and riverine forest. The park encompasses 839 species of plants that includes 173 species of vascular plant species (140 dicots, 26 monocots, 6 ferns, 1 gymnosperm).

The national park is an excellent habitat for a variety of Fauna. Almost 642 faunal species are found in the national park that includes 53 mammals’ species, 23 reptile, and amphibian species, 407 species of birds and a small population of gharials mugger crocodiles. Rhinoceros, wild elephant, Bengal tiger, swamp deer, and the Gangetic dolphin are the mammal’s species protected in the park. Also, the bird species like Bengal florican, white-rumped vulture, peafowl, and bar-headed geese are the specialties of the park.

How to reach the Bardia National Park

There are regular flights from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj from where public buses are available to reach the far western region. Also direct buses from the New bus park, Kathmandu to Bardia.

Attractions

Game viewing
The Karnali River
The endangered Gangetic dolphin
Sukarmala, the highest point on the Churia range
Telpani, another high point that can be reached from Danawatal.

Shey- Phoksundo National Park

Location

The Shey- Phoksundo national park is the largest national park established in 1984 with an area of 3,555 sq km. The national park lies in the mountain region of western Nepal, covering the parts of Dolpa and Mugu districts.

The diversity of Flora and Fauna

The park has diverse vegetation where only less than 5% of the park forested, with the most part of vegetation lying in the southern part. The northern Trans-Himalayans consists of rhododendron, caragana shrubs, Salix, juniper, white Himalayan birch and sometimes silver fir. The southern Suligad valley consists of blue pine, hemlock, cedar, spruce, bamboo, poplar, and silver fir.

6 species of reptiles, 29 species of butterfly, and more than 200 species of birds are found in the park. The national park also offers a favorable habitat for many endangered species. Some of these include snow leopard, grey wolf, musk deer, and blue sheep. The Tibetan partridge, wood spine, white-throated tit, wood accentor, and crimson-eared rose finch are some of the bird species in the park.

How to reach the Shey- Phoksundo National Park

The easiest way to reach the park is to fly to Juphal in Dolpa from Nepalgunj or Pokhara. It is an easy one day hike from Juphal. Also, you can fly to Jumla and then trek 10 days to Phoksundo areas.

Attractions

Gompas and religious sites
A typical Tibetan village; Ringmo village
Phoksundo Lake is the major attraction
The waterfall about 150 meters nearby the Phoksundo Lake

Rara National Park

Location

The Rara national park was established in 1976 and is the smallest national park in Nepal with an area of 106 sq km. The park is located in the Mugu and Jumla district. The main objective of the park was to preserve the flora and fauna of the Humla-Jumla region of Nepal.

The diversity of Flora and Fauna

A total of 1,070 species of flora are recorded in the Rara National Park with the majority of its vegetation being coniferous. The sub-alpine region is forested by the Blue pine (Pinus excels) up to 3200 meters, Rhododendron (Rhododendron arboretum), Black juniper (Juniperus wallichiana) and oak (Quercus semecarpefolia). Above this is the coniferous forest with fir, oak, and birch.

The park recorded 51 species of mammals, 241 species of birds, 2 species of reptiles and amphibians and 3 fish species. The birds include 49 wetland species. Coots, great-crested and black-necked grebes, red-crested pochards, mallard, common teal and common merganser are found. The park is also home to three endemic species namely Snow trout (Schozothorax nepalensis), the Rara snow trout and Nepalese snow trout. The Paa rarica (a frog species) was also first recorded as endemic to Rara National Park.

How to reach the Rara National Park

One can get up to the Rara National Park either by a 2.5 days trek from Jumla or by a 10 days trek from Surkhet.

Attractions

Rara Lake
Migratory birds
Chuchemara Peak (4048 m) to the south of the lake
Ruma Kand (3731 m) and Malika Kand (3444 m) to the north of the lake

Langtang National Park

Location

The Langtang National Park was established in 1976 and is the first Himalayan National Park. It has an area of 1,710 sq km and lies in the parts of Nuwakot, Rasuwa, and Sindhupalanchok districts of central Himalayas.

The diversity of Flora and Fauna

Langtang National Park has an extended diversity. More than a thousand species of plants are found in the park, 21 species being endemic. The southern part of the park consists of a most of Sal (Shorea robusta). The species like birch, silver fir, Sorbus microphyla, and twisted Rhododendron camapanlatum are found near the tree line.

Langtang National Park is home to 46 species of mammals. The Assamese monkey, grey wolf, red panda, clouded leopard, snow leopard, musk deer, and Tibetan sheep are found in the park. The temperate forest in the park is home to the black bears.

The park is a reserve for more than 250 species of birds. The park protects 12 species of the globally threatened bird species which include satyr tragopan (Tragopan satyra), Yellow-rumped honey guide (Indicator xanthonotus), wood snipe (Gallinago nemoricola) and many more. The park is also home to some wetland-dependent birds like the Bar-Headed goose (Ancer indicus), Ruddy Shelduck (Tadorna ferruginea), Common Teal (Anas crecca), Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula) and Common Merganser (Mergus merganser).

How to reach the Langtang National Park

From Kathmandu it will take about 6-7 hours to reach Syabrubeshi. This will provide a ride along the bank of Trishuli River and beautiful terraced villages. It will then require a trek of next 6.5 hours to reach Rimche. Dense bamboo forest, the Langur monkeys, and the Sherpa settlement are the attractions of the hike. The next day, the hike to Langtang valley starts which will take around 5-6 hours.

Attractions

Gosaikunda Lake
The Langtang valley
Langtang Helambu trek
Laurey bina La Trek
Tamang Heritage Trek

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Khaptad National Park

Location

The Khaptad National Park was established in 1984. It covers an area of 225 sq. km and stretches over Bajhang, Bajura, Achham and Doti districts.

The diversity of Flora and Fauna

The lower altitude up to 200 meters is dominated by the subtropical vegetation that includes Montane Sal, Pines and Alder species. The temperate forest up to 3000 meters comprise broad-leaved species (Lindera nacusua, Cinnamomum tamca, etc) and evergreen species (Spruce, fir, oak, etc.). The upper temperate has Aesculus indica, maple, etc.

266 species of birds are found in the park both migratory and residential. The park supports almost 175 breeding bird species. Some of the common species include Impeyan pheasant (Danphe), bulbuls, cuckoos and eagles. Also, 20 species of mammals live in the park, the common of which include deer, wild boar, goral, Rhesus and Langur monkey, and Yellow-throated Marten.

How to reach the Khaptad National Park

One can fly to Nepalgunj or Dhangadi from Kathmandu. Buses from Dhangadi will drop you to Silagadhi from where 6 hours hike will lead to the park entrance.

Attractions

Khaptad Baba Ashram
Saileswori
Badimallika
Surma Sarovar
Bird watching opportunity

Makalu Barun National Park

Location

The Makalu Barun National Park was established in 1922 as an extension of the Sagarmatha National Park. It covers an area of 1,500 sq km and lies in Solukhumbu and Sankhuwasabha districts. This park is the only protected area in the world with an elevation of more than 8,000 meters.

The diversity of Flora and Fauna

The national park has an extensive variety of flora and fauna. There are 3,128 species of flowering plants which includes the 25 species of Rhododendron out of 30 species found in Nepal. Also, the park has 48 primroses species, 47 orchids, 19 bamboos, 15 oaks, 86 fodder trees and 67 species of economically valuable plants.

It is recorded that the park harvests 315 butterfly species, 43 reptiles, 78 fish, and 16 amphibian species, 440 species of birds including 16 rare species. The park is home to 88 species of mammals that includes snow leopard, barking deer, Himalayan serow, flying squirrel and many more.

How to reach the Makalu Barun National Park

One can fly up to Lukla, Phaplu, Lamidanda, Bhojpur or Tumlingtar and start trekking to reach the national park

Attractions

Makalu Base Camp trek
Makalu circuit trek
Makalu trekking
Arun valley trek

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Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

Location

The Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park was established in 2002 in the mid-hills on the north of Kathmandu valley. It covers the Kathmandu, Nuwakot, and Sindhupalchowk districts and has an area of 159 sq km.

The diversity of Flora and Fauna

The national park consists of 120 species of vascular plants and 129 species of mushrooms. The dominant vegetation comprises of Schima Castanopsis, Pine, and Oak- Rhododendron. The park also has 311 species of birds out of which 117 are migratory species. The spiny babbler, wren babbler, and Turdoides nepalensis are endemic to the park. The protected mammals in the park are the clouded leopard, Pangolin Manissp, Assame monkey, leopard cat, and Macaca assamensis. King cobra, green pit viper, rat snake, lizards, and geckos are the common reptiles in the park. 102 species of moths and butterflies are found in the park.

Attractions

Nagarkot Hiking
Bird watching tours
Langtang circuit trek
Kathmandu Nagarkot biking
Helambu trek

Banke National Park

Location

The Banke National Park lies in Mid-Western Nepal in the districts Banke, Salyan, and Dang. The national park has an area of 550 sq km.

The diversity of Flora and Fauna

The national park has 124 plants, 34 mammals, more than 300 birds, 24 reptiles, 7 amphibians, and 58 fish species. The Sal, Karma, Khair, and Sisso dominate the forest. The three species of the mammals, 4 species of birds and 2 species of reptiles are protected by the National Park and Wildlife Conservation Act 1973.

How to reach the Banke National Park

Regular flights are available from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. From Nepalgunj, it is about an hour drive on a regular bus from Nepalgunj to reach the park’s head office. Also one can get there from Mahendranagar which will take about eight hours. Seven hours bus ride from Dhangadi also drops you to the park office.

Attractions

Hiking
Guided walk
Boating
Elephant Safari

Parsa National Park

Location

The Parsa National Park was established as a wildlife reserve in 1984 in the inner Terai lowlands of south-central Nepal that covers Parsa, Makwanpur and Bara districts with an area of 627.39 sq km. In 2017, the park declared as National park.

The diversity of Flora and Fauna

The tropical and subtropical forest dominates the park’s vegetation. The Sal is the 90% of the vegetation. Chir pines are found in the Churia Hills, Sisso and Silk cotton are found along the watercourses. The Sabai grass grows along the southern surface of the Churia Hills. It has recorded total of 919 species that includes 298 vascular plants, 234 dicots, 58 monocots, 5 Pteridophytes and one gymnosperm.

The park also harbors a wide range of faunal species. The species population like Asian elephant, Royal Bengal tiger, sloth bear, and leopard have supported by the park. The park is also home for blue bull, wild dog, jungle cat, Langur, sambar and spotted deer and many other species. More than 500 bird species inhabit the park which includes Paradise flycatcher, Golden backed wood keeper, large racquet-tailed drono, and some more. The park is also a habitat for the endangered species of Giant Hornbill. Various species of snakes like common cobra, common and banded Krait, Rock python and King cobra are also found in the park.

How to reach the Parsa National Park

The Parsa National Park is easily accessible. The Kathmandu-Hetauda highway passes by the entrance gate of the park. Buses are available from Kathmandu which will take about six to seven hours to reach there. A flight to Simara and then a 15 minutes’ drive can also be considered as an option.

Attractions

The view tower
Dugdewor Mahadev
Elephant Camp in Amlekhgunj
Jungle ride

Shuklaphanta National Park

Location

The Shuklaphanta National Park was established as a hunting reserve in 1969. While in 1976 the park has declared as a wildlife reserve and now is gazette as a National Park. The park covers an area of 305 sq. km in Far western Nepal in Kanchanpur district.

The diversity of Flora and Fauna

There are about 700 species of plants in the park that includes 553 vascular plants, 18 Pteridophytes, 410 dicots and 125 monocots. The Saal dominates the forest. The grassland also contributes major proportion of the park which includes the grasses like Imperata cylindrica, and Heteropogon contortus. Khair and Sisso grow along the river side.

The national park is rich in faunal species. The ponds, lakes and rivers are the homes to 28 fish species and 12 reptile and amphibian species. 46 species of mammals are found that include 18 species under CITIES such as Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, and sloth bear, swamp dear, elephant and hispid hare. Also, a total of 423 species of birds have recorded in the park. The park has the highest population of the Bengal florican in Nepal. The breeding residents include white-rumped vulture, slender-billed vulture, lesser adjutant, grey-headed fish eagle, darter and Rufous-rumped vulture.

How to reach the Shuklaphanta National Park

The Suklaphanta National Park is accessibly by road and air. One flight every week is available from Kathmandu to Dhangadi which is 51 km far from park headquarters. Regular buses from Dhangadi takes about 3 hours to reach the park headquarter. The Park can also be accessed by the Mahnedra Highway through Nepalgunj-Dhangadi-Mahendranagar.

Attractions

Jungle Safari
Elephant ride
Bird watching
Amazing grassland
Tharu cultural dance and dinner

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Phewa Lake

World Peace Pagoda Trek

Panchase Deurali Trek

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When is Tihar celebrated?

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The Five Days of Tihar Festival

Day 01: Kaag Tihar- Worshipping the Crow

Day 02: Kukur Tihar- Worshipping the Dog

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Day 05: Bhai Tika

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