Nepal is a country of diversity. It is small in area, yet the diversity in here will make you ponder if Nepal really has so many a variations. Nepal has a history of thousand years, before the civilization of humans, during the time of Gods, some of the most prominent Hindu pilgrimages are here in Nepal. Keeping aside the fact that Nepal has a history of thousands year old with Hinduism, Nepal is also the place where Lord Buddha was born.
In Nepal, there are mass followers of Hinduism and Buddhism, but there are several other religion too, which people have been following for many years. There are many temples, monasteries, church, mosque, and shrines visited by peoples of their respective faith and religions Hindus, Buddhist and other religions like Kiranti, Christianity, Islam, Sikh, and others.
So today, let us take a look at the holy pilgrimages, the ultimate place of faith and belief, which has bind people of this country despite the diversity between them.
Pashupatinath Temple
Pashupatinath is not only one of the most famous pilgrimage place in Nepal but also one of the most sacred temples among Hindus. This temple is located on the bank of the holy river Bagmati, which lies at a distance of approximately 5 kilometers north-east of Kathmandu.
Pashupatinath Temple is dedicated to the Hindu Lord Shiva. The existence of this very temple is dated back to 400 B.C. The temple is built in a pagoda style with the gilded roof, four sides which are covered in silvers and has the finest wood carving.
The temple has also been enlisted on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1973. Pashupatinath is a place of temples, ashrams and image inscription which are raised over the centuries along the bank of holy river Bagmati.
Upon your visit to the temple, you can find many devotees, sadhus and babas, tourists, and locals. The temple is open seven days a week, where people perform worship, aarati (Chanting), and several rituals. However, on the day of Shivaratri, Pashupatinath becomes one of the most crowded places with over one million devotees, who visit to pay their respect to the god.
Lumbini
Lumbini is a very famous pilgrimage site for Buddhists. However, it is also a tourist centre, where national, as well as international tourists, pay a visit. It is a place where Queen Mayadevi gave birth to Siddhartha Gautama in 563 BCE. Prince Siddhartha, however, left that palace and went in search for enlightenment and achieved in sometime around 528 BCE.
Lumbini comprises several monuments and monasteries which are built by several countries like Myanmar, Thailand, China, Germany, Japan, Sri Lanka and others.
It is a beautiful place, which is spread over 1.95 hector area. There is a sandstone craving about the birth of Buddha, by the Malla King, Ripu Malla, in the 14th century, when Buddha’s mother, Mayadevi was worshiped as an incarnation of the Hindu Goddess.
Another attraction of Lumbini is the Asoka Pillar, which was built by, the great Indian Emperor Asoka himself, during his time of visit to the birthplace of Buddha back in 249 BC.
Lumbini is 259.5 kilometers from the capital, Kathmandu. It can be reached in around 6 and half hours by bus via Prithvi Highway.
Muktinath Temple
Muktinath Temple is a holy site which is famous for both Hindus and Buddhists pilgrims. The area of Muktinath is also called Mukti Kshetra in Hinduism, which means the place of liberation.
Muktinath is one of the very ancient Hindu temples of Lord Vishnu. The statue of Lord Vishnu is made of gold and is tall enough to compare with the height of a man. The courtyard of the temple has 108 bull faces through which water is poured.
According to the history, the temple was formed when Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava, meditated at Muktinath on his way to Tibet. Padmasambhava is the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. Muktinath has importance from Hinduism point of view, with the several narrations on Vishnu Purana about the temple’s significance.
It is very hard to make access to the Muktinath due to harsh weather conditions in Mustang. However, it is best to visit from March to June. Flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara should be taken and then to Jomsom Airport. After reaching Jomsom, you can take a jeep to Muktinath or trek all the way. Some tourists also take a charter helicopter for 45-minute flight.
Swayambhunath
Swayambhunath is an ancient religious architecture and one of the sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhist. Following the mythology, the whole Kathmandu Valley was once an enormous lake. Later, the valley came to be known as a Swayambhu. Swayambhu, which means self-created.
Swayambhunath is also called Monkey Temple as there are hundreds of monkeys residing near the area of Swayambhunath. It is located 3 kilometers west of the Kathmandu city.
The stupas, temples, and shrines of Swayambhunath are very ancient, some even belong to the Licchavi period. Some of the most recent additions are the museum, library, and monastery.
Boudha
Boudha is one of the religious and holy pilgrimage places for Buddhists. It is one of the largest stupas in the world and popular tourist site in Nepal located about 11 kilometers from the outskirts of Kathmandu.
Boudha mostly comprises of Tibetan merchants, who entered Nepal from Tibet in 1950s. They decided to have live in Boudha and offered their prayers for many centuries.
According to the Newar Buddhist mythology, Licchavi King, King Bikramaditya sacrificed himself so that water could run from the dhunge dhara (stone water tap). As the King sacrificed himself, the prince decided to flew a hen from the place where Kings Head had landed, with a decision to construct a stupa wherever the hen lands. The hen landed where Boudha stupa stands today.
Boudha suffered a huge damage during the earthquake on April 2015. However, now the stupa has been restored and built in its original form.
Budhanilkantha
Budhanilkantha is one of the holiest places of Hindu pilgrimage in Nepal. Budhanilkantha is a Lord Vishnu’s temple which is located at the foot of Shivapuri Hills in the northern-most part of the Valley. The distance is about 8 kilometers from the Kathmandu city.
Budhanilkantha has the most unique statue. The statue of Vishnu is in reclining position, lying in the bed of snakes in the middle of a lake. The 5-meter long statue was craved back in Lichchhavi period out of a single rock.
As per the local stories, a farmer, while working in the field got his plow struck in a big rock and to his extreme surprise, blood started oozing of the cut in the stone. Later as it turned out, the big rock was a lost deity of Budhanilkantha and was recovered and placed in this current position.
Halesi Mahadev
Halesi Mahadev is a sacred temple for both Hindu and Buddhists. It is also known as The Pashupatinath of eastern Nepal. It is actually a cave, where a temple has been built. The cave is of round shape with about 67 ft. below the surface of the land.
According to the legend, the cave used to be a hiding place for Lord Shiva from the demon Bhasmasur for 6000 years.
Haleshi Mahadev is located at Khotang district. It is 185 kilometer southwest of Mount Everest. This place is normally very cold and rainy during the most part of the year. It takes around 6 hours and 35 minutes to reach Halesi Mahadev from Kathmandu by bus.
Pathibhara Temple
Pathibhara Temple is one of the most significant temples in Nepal. Although it is considered as the holy place for the Limbu community, peoples from different parts of the country, as well as people from India, visit to this temple on many special occasions. It is also said that the temples fulfill the wish of pilgrims.
Goddess Pathibhara is considered as a fierce goddess, as a manifestation of the divine feminine, who is also known by other names as Maha Maya, AdiKali, Maha Rudri and others. It is believed that Goddess Pathibhara can be easily pleased with a simple and selfless act of compassion, prayer, and sacrificial offerings, but she can be unmerciful to those with malicious intentions.
According to the history, once a local shepherd lost his hundreds of sheep while grazing at the same place where the temple is today. The shepherd had a dream in which the Goddess ordered to carry out a ritualistic sacrifice of the sheep to build a shrine in her honor. The shepherd’s lost herd returned after the sacrifice was made. After this incident, a temple was built and named as Pathibhara.
The ex-royal family of Nepal is among the list of devotees of Goddess Pathibhara. Animal sacrifices, money, gold, and silver are offered to the Goddess by her pilgrims to please her.
Pathibhara Temple is located at Taplejung district and it is also a secondary route of Kanchenjunga trek. You have to travel to Charali from Kathmandu which is 627 kilometers away. Then from Charali to Taplejung, which is approx 240 kilometers. From Taplejung you can either hike or take a van or jeep.
Jatra’s carry huge religious importance among the Newars of Kathmandu valley. The Newar group of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan has several jatras that they celebrate annually with sincere devotion and belief. The Newars of Kathmandu celebrator Indra Jatra as their main Jatras, Patan Newars celebrate Rato Machchhindra Jatra and the Newars of Bhaktapur follow Bisket and Gai Jatra. Both Bisket and Gai Jatra are celebrated as major jatras, and thousands of people gather at Bhaktapur durbar square to commemorate these jatras.
Bisket Jatra is a nine days long festival celebrated at the end of Chaitra. The Bisket Jatra signifies the end of a year and the start of a new year on the Bikram Sambat calendar. The jatra focuses on pulling chariots of two deities, the wrathful god Bhairav, and goddess Bhadrakali. A few days before the jatra, chariots are built in the Bhaktapur Durbar square and later pulled by local young people through the narrow streets of Bhaktapur.
History of Bisket Jatra
The Bisket Jatra has several historical stories relating to the gods and goddess. Among the many views of locals about the history of Bisket Jatra, two stories about snakes are widely accepted by Newars of the area. Bisket jatra is called the “Festival after the death of the serpent.” Different places of Bhaktapur celebrate the jatra according to their rituals.
Princess and her snakes
King Jagajyoti Malla, who was fascinated by myth and folklore learned of the story about a beautiful princess the frequent deaths of the princess’s husbands. The princess held a curse that decreed that anyone who wed her would die the next day. Many young men died after having to marry the princess. Later a young man was chosen to marry the princess, despite concerns from his old mother. Goddess Bhadrakali, who came in as a disguise of another old lady, suggested the young to stay awake after the princess fell asleep.
After the wedding, the princess lay in bed and slept quickly. The young man recalled the advice of the lady and stood awake. He sits beside the princess staring at her face. After some time, two poisonous serpents crawled from the nose of the princess. The young man quickly killed the snakes with his sword and broke the princess’s curse of the serpents.
King Jagjyoti loved this myth and wished it to be remembered with happiness and prosperity. The occasion was called Bisyaku jatra and currently known as Bisket jatra. In Newari language, Bi Syaku means snake laughter.
The two serpents and rice grains
Another popular myth about Bisket jatra circles around the Shidev Kings. When the Shivadev Kings ruled over Kathmandu, Kirats attacked Bhaktapur and looted and beat up peoples. In order to prevent such attacks, the king consulted a tantric Shekharacharya who transformed himself into a tiger and chased the Kirants.
One day, the tantrik’s (A person who performs dark magic) wife wanted to see the Azinger (python) form and requested her husband to change shape. The tantrik obliged but gave rice grains to sprinkle over him so that he could turn back to his usual form. But after Shekharacharya turned into the python, his wife was scared and ran away without sprinkling the rice grains and ate the rice grains herself. As a result, she also turned into a python. After the couple had realized they had no choice, they committed suicide on the bank of a river. The kings then started to erect the lingo in memory of the couple.
There still exist many myths about how the Bisket Jatra came into existence, however, the legacy about Bhadrakali’s advice and the two serpents and rice grains are more prominent among the locals of Bhaktapur.
Celebrating the Bisket Jatra
People celebrate Bisket jatra in two locations, in Bhaktapur Durbar square and Thimi. The jatra at the Durbar Square attracts people from all over Kathmandu. Locals erect the main chariot of god Bhairav and another chariot of goddess Bhadrakali. Few days before the new year, Bhairav and Bhadrakali are enshrined in their chariots and pulled through narrow streets around Bhaktapur by crowds of young men.
Another highlight of Bisket jatra is the tug of war between the upper and lower part of town. The Upper part (Thane) and the lower part (Kone) pull the chariots towards their side. Later the chariot is headed towards Kalla Tole.
In Balkumari, Thimi, Sindur jatra is celebrated in the Bisket jatra. Local inhabitants of Thimi gather, carrying their chariots. Groups of people come together, bring out 32 palanquins called Khats that consist of different gods. Sindoor (Vermilion red) powder if showered over the gods and people put the sindoor on each other and offer prayer to the gods.
Bode, an ancient Newar city of east Kathmandu celebrates the jatra in a piercing ceremony. A Shrestha volunteer to pierce his tongue with an iron spike and roam multiple parts of the city by carrying fire torches on the shoulder.
The Lingo
Lingo is a pole that people erect on the Bisket Jatra. The tradition of constructing lingo started to celebrate the life of the surviving son-in-law of the King. On the new year’s eve, two lingos, 55-ft-tall totem poles, are erected on two different locations. The lingo is brought down the next day to signify the start of the new year.
The lingo is given two hands, that symbolizes the two serpents in the myths. The hands are worn red banners to represent them as snakes. A long banner hangs from the top of the lingo that symbolizes a victory in ancient mythological battle.
When the snakes hands on the lingo were killed, people would be assured that snakes would not kill anyone in the year. People come to the place where the lingo is erect and light butter lamps. Local people worship the lingo and the idols of snakes. Another myth suggests that people worship the snakes because the reptile in connected to rain and water and also helps in agriculture. Local people concur that lingo might also be worshipped to show respect for the reptiles.
After the lingo is crashed down and the New Year commences, two more days remain in the Bisket jatra. In these two days, the two chariots are taken to the open space of Bhaktapur Durbar square and clashed with each other. Large groups of young people pull the chariots with the help of large ropes and clash the chariots. There is a religious significance why the chariots are stricken with each other.
The chariots are then joined together to signify a successful consummation after the marriage of the king’s daughter and the brave son-in-law who freed the king’s daughter from the serpent’s curse.
The final two days of the Bisket jatra sees fellow affairs, jatras, and religious rituals. Traditional music, rallies, and dances fill the area of Bhaktapur. Bisket jatra remains one of the most important jatra of Bhaktapur and the most followed by a large group of people of the valley.
Duration and Time of Bisket Jatra
Bisket Jatra is a nine-day long festival that is celebrated in by the Newars of Bhaktapur. Bhaktapur is 14 miles far from Kathmandu and gains massive intensity and popularity during the festival. The exact date of Bisket Jatra cannot be identified.
The period of the Jatra changes as per the lunar calendar and astrological positions. The Bisket Jatra always takes place during the end and beginning of the new year of Bikram Sambat calendar. The jatra starts five days prior the last day of the year and lasts till the fourth day of the new year.
Thousands and thousands of people from different ethnic backgrounds and religion venture to Bhaktapur Durbar Square to witness the Bisket jatra. According to myth, anyone who visits the chariots and the deities lives a prosperous life and remains happy for the rest of their life. The Bisket jatra is also celebrated to gratify God Bhairav, the wrath god. The people offer prayer and foods to the chariot of god Bhairav in hope to rid them of suffering and troubles in the coming years.
If you want to visit and experience the Bisket Jatra in Nepal, arrange a visit during the period of Jatra with us and feel the energy and religious impact of Bisket Jatra. For further information and booking details, message us at our contact page.
Nepal is a land of ethnic and religious diversity, dominated by people of Hindu religion and followed by Buddhist religion. There are more than 55 festivals celebrated in a calendar year in Nepal. The vast number of festivals arises from the ethnic diversity present in Nepal. In a small area of 1, 47,181 sq. meter resides more than 125 ethnic groups, each with their different festivals. In spite of the diversity in ethnicity and festivals, all the communities live and celebrate each other’s festivals and rituals with joy, respect, and excitement.
It is certainly true that there are more festivals in Nepal than days in a calendar, but not all festivals receive nationwide attention. Some important festivals gain more attention and have greater religious and historical significance than others. The celebrations have also become a tourist attention grabber. Many tourists express their desire to come back and experience the festivals in the future. Some of the paramount festivals of Nepal celebrated and enjoyed by people of all ethnic groups are:
Holi (Festival of Colors)
Holi, traditionally called Fagupurnima is the festival of colors. The festival falls on the month of Falgun and Chaitra of Nepali calendar. Holi is one of the most lively and enjoyable festivals of Nepal practiced by people all over Nepal. People celebrate Holi to celebrate the death of “Holika.”, who tried to kill a devotee of Vishnu, Prahlada. A Fire was lighted to both Holika and Prahlada, but only Holika burnt to death. Maybe this is the reason why we splash water in Holi.
Colors are another feature of Holi. Holi signifies the end of winter and start of spring, giving birth to colorful flower blooms and warmer climate. This also may be the reason we celebrate happiness with various colors in Holi.
Tourists visit widely to Nepal to enjoy this lively, joyful festival. Random strangers on the street become friends and celebrate by putting colors on the faces of each other. Undoubtedly, Holi is the most joyous and enjoyed festivals of Nepal.
Lhosar
Lhosar, also referred to as Losar is another widely celebrated festivals of Nepal. The Buddhist community is from where Lhosar originated. Lhosar is a new year’s festival celebrated on the first day of Lunisolar Tibetan Calendar. Different communities celebrate Lhosar in different dates. There are three different Lhosar celebrated in Nepal, Tamu Lhosar, Gyalbo Lhosar and Sonam Lhosar. Gurung community celebrates Talu Lhosar, Tamang and Yolmu communities celebrate Sonam Lhosar, and Sherpa and Tibetan community celebrates Gyalbo Lhosar.
Lhosar is a festival of dancing in traditional dresses, eating foods and family gatherings. People also pray in monasteries, clean houses and surroundings and decorate homes and monasteries. They clean the surrounding to make a clean path for the gods to visit their home.
Dashain
Almost all Hindus in Nepal celebrate Dashain. More than 80% of Hindu people celebrate Dashain, the tika festival in Nepal. Dashain is considered as one of the major festivals of Nepal. It is a fifteen-day long festival. The first day, Ghatasthapana marks the start of Dashain. In Dashain, people worship different deities for 8 consecutive days, the 8 Tantrik Goddesses and nine incarnated forms of Goddess Durga. The tenth day, Vijaya Dashami is the most important day of the festival. People receive red tika and Jamara from elders and ask for blessings.
People travel all over the country to receive tika and blessings from their relatives and elders. The last day of the festival is in the full moon and called Kojagrata Purnima. People also enjoy huge swings made of bamboo (Linge Ping), play cards with family and cousins, and buy new clothes and equipment.
Tihar
Tihar is the festival of Lights. It is a five-day festival that comes after the end of Dashain. Tihar focuses on worshipping the animals ridden by gods and goddesses. People worship animals like dogs, crow, and cow in Tihar. Laxmi Puja is a significant day of Tihar. People light the houses in handmade Diyos and light up electrical lights over the entire house. Laxmi is the goddess of wealth, and people keep the house and surroundings clean and pave a path with lights to guide the goddess inside peoples home.
Tihar is also a festival of sweet dishes. Many dishes like Selroti, Anarsha, Fiini, and Thekua are made and offered to the animals, goddess, and people. The sight of streets gleaming with different colored lights covers the entire country. Close friends form a group and sing Dheuso Bhailo from house to house and ask and give blessings for prosperity and good fortune.
Mha Puja
Mha puja falls on Newari New year which follows the Nepal Sambhat calendar. It translates to Me puja where people worship themselves. The Mha Puja is the most important festivals of Nepal specific to the Newar ethnic group. It falls on the fourth day of Tihar. People worship themselves and perform rituals to purify and empower ones’ soul and body. The family members sit in a row on the floor in front of a drawn mandala, a sand painting of a sacred circular diagram.
Buddha Jayanti
Buddha Jayanti is the most important day for all Buddhist followers. Buddha Jayanti marks the birthday of Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhism and the light of Asia. This a joyous day not just for Buddhist followers but for all the people of Nepal. People of different ethnic groups collaborate with monks and Buddhist followers and spread the teaching of Gautam Buddha on the day. Many Buddhist followers visit shrines like Lumbini, Swoyambhunath, and Boudhanath to pray and offer homage to their leader. The shrines of Gautam Buddha are lit with butter lamps as a sign of respect and admiration.
Monks, nun, and followers travel in parades on Buddha Jayanti chanting prayers of moral of life. Many people refrain from killing animals in Buddha Jayanti and eat vegetarian dishes on the day to respect the teachings of Gautam Buddha.
Teej
Teej is a Hindu festival celebrated by most of the Hindu women. Teej is a festival focused on women of Nepal. Married women fast on the day in hopes of longer life and prosperity of her husband. Young and unmarried girls fast in faith to find a kind and loving husband. Women wear red saris with ornaments and dance in music and celebrate the festival. They end the fast by eating delicious foods and visit relatives.
Indra Jatra
Jatras are festivals celebrated by people of the Newar community. Newar people of Kathmandu celebrate Indra Jatra(Yenya) to honor Lord Indra, God of rain. The festival is 8 days long and takes place in Kathmandu Durbar Square. Several chariots of Goddess Kumari, Ganesh, and Bhairav round the city along with mascots and traditional bands. People imitate different Bhairavs, Dashavtaar and Lakhey and dance around the chariot. People celebrate Indra Jatra in celebration of the release of God Indra, who was captured by locals. On the release of God Indra, his mother blessed the city with rain. So, god of rain, Lord Indra is worshipped and celebrated in Kathmandu.
Gai Jatra
Newars of Bhaktapur strongly follow Gai Jatra. The festival is one of a kind in Nepal. Gai Jatra is a humorous festival. The Jatra is nine days long and falls in the month of Bhadra. People make sarcastic jokes and comments, satire each other to make people laugh. Many magazines, Tv shows, and theatre play funny shows and plots to celebrate Gai Jatra. This Jatra takes place in the Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
Gai Jatra originated from the regime of Pratap Malla. The son of Pratap Malla died early, and his queen was grief-stricken. King Pratap arranged for an occasion to lessen the pain of his queen. The king ordered every family who has lost loved ones join in an event where people dress ridiculously as ghouls and comic appearance to make the grieved ones laugh and forget about their pain. People dress similar to cows, as cows are believed to lead the soul to the other world.
Rato Machchhindra Jatra
Rato Machchhindra Jatra is a prominent festival of Nepal seen followed in Patan area of Kathmandu Valley. People make a chariot from wood and bamboo from forests that have religious importance. Hindus and Buddhists follow Rato Machchhindra deity. An idol of Rato Machchhindra is put inside the chariot and pulled places of Lalitpur like Gabahal, Sundhara, and Lagankhel. The festival ends when a marvelous Bhoto is shown to the people from the chariot. The chariot is then dismantled, and the idol of Rato Machchhindra is placed in a temple at Bungamati village.
Above mentioned are some of the most celebrated and followed festivals of Nepal. There are several others festivals in Nepal that people follow in huge number. Some other important festivals of Nepal are Bisket Jatra, Chhath, Maha Shivratri, Saraswati Puja and many more. You can visit Nepal in any of the festivals and be a part of our culture, traditions, and celebrations.
For further information regarding festivals of Nepal, make sure to leave us a message on our contact page.
Nepal is a land of ethnic diversity. More than 125 recorded ethnic groups live in Nepal. All these ethnic groups have their distinct customs, traditions and cuisines. The variety of food all differs from ethnic group to ethnic group. The Newar group has their separate foods and traditions which circles primarily around buffalo meat and Aila (homemade alcohol), while Bramhins are worshippers and don’t have meat related products in their cuisine. All these 125 or more divergent ethnic groups proud themselves in their unique foods and cuisines.
In your visit to Nepal, it might not be possible to try the cuisines of all ethnic groups. But you surely can taste some of the most widespread and loved cuisines of Nepal.
Most Widespread Cuisines of Nepal
Newari Cuisine
Newars are the indigenous people of Kathmandu. They cater the best cuisine in Nepal. Their widely popular dishes come from Buffalo. Every part of a buffalo constitutes a separate and delicious dish. Some of the dishes are Kachilaa (raw marinated minced meat), Takhaa (jellied soup), Hakuchoila (grounded spiced and broiled meat), Bhuttan (deep fried intestine and gut), Nhe pure (soup made from the brain of buffalo) and so on.
Newars also have appetizing vegetarian dishes. Kwati, Wo, Chatamari, Yomari, and Bara are the most popular vegetarian dishes even though they can also be prepared by stuffing meat in them. Newari desert consists of Yoghurt, fruits, and sweets. Spicy pickles are also widely preferred in Newari cuisines.
Newars are very religious and cultural people. Their tradition teaches to offer meat and alcohol products and be consumed as gods Prasada. Homemade alcohol called Aila and Thwon are prepared especially during festive season and celebration. Nowadays many Newari food theme restaurants have opened in Kathmandu Valley that offers traditional Newari cuisines.
Lohorung Cuisine
Lohorung are ethnic groups indigenous to eastern Nepal. They originate in Sankhuwasabha and have resided in neighboring districts. They belong to the Kiranti group of Sino-Tibetan languages. Lohorung has varieties of dishes made from local ingredients. The most famous food item of Lohorung is Tongba. Tongba is a millet-based alcohol beverage. It originated from eastern Nepal and spread all over Nepal and also to Darjeeling and Sikkim. Millet is fermented and put in a container. Then hot water is pour over and drank until the alcohol stops oozing from the millet. Some of the other popular Nepali cuisines of Lohorung are Wachipa, Wamik, Masikdaam, Kinima, Sibring, Bawari, Yangden, Dipu and so on.
Terai Cuisine
Terai region food center over Maithali cuisine, Tharu cuisine, and Bhojpuri cuisine. People of Terai are sweet dish lovers. They have varieties of sweet dishes like Jalebi, Lalmohan, Rasbari and other sweets items. The savory dish of Terai circles over vegetables locally produced. The curry is very widely eaten in Terai. Some vegetable used to make curry are Cauliflower, eggplant, cabbage and green beans. Tharus are fishers and eat freshwater crab dishes, prawns, snails and fish. The Tharus are excellent fish curry cooks. You will taste the best Nepali cuisine related to fish in the Terai region of Nepal.
Tibetan Cuisine
Nepalese cuisine in the northern region follows a remarkable similarity to the Tibetan cuisine. Some of the most notable food items of Tibetan ethnicity are noodles, yak cheese, dumplings (Mo Mo), Tibetan bread, goat and yak meat dishes, Sherpa stew and so on.
Tsampa, flour milled from barley is the staple food of northerner Nepal. Sha Phaley (meat and cabbage in bread) is also eaten in a wide scale here. Thukpa (a noodle soup with vegetables) is also eaten all over Nepal. Some Tibetan cuisines like Mo Mo and Thukpa have gained popularity all over Nepal and among people of Sikkim and Darjeeling too.
Gurung Cuisine
The main Nepali cuisine Dhido comes from the Gurung cuisine. Dhido is the most traditional food of the Nepalese people. Dhido is prepared from either buckwheat or millet flour. Several people eat dhido as per their taste and preferences. The traditional side dish for Dhido is Gundruk, (fermented leafy green curry which is used as a pickle too). People also eat dhido with vegetable curries, pickles, yogurt, and rotis. Current widespread side dish for dhido is meat, either mutton or chicken.
Gundruk is the second major component of Gurung cuisine. Gundruk is the traditional curry of Nepali cuisine. People either make gundruk as a curry by adding in potatoes and other spices or make it as a pickle by mixing gundruk with onions, chilly and other pickled items. Another dish from the Gurung community is eaten all over Nepal is Sel roti. Sel roti is a type of snack food; which is round shaped and made from rice flour. Sel roti is made on special occasions like Dashain, Tihar and other major festivals and occasions. The batter made from mixing flour, ghee, and sugar is fried in oil until it turns red and becomes crispy on the outside. Another brilliant Nepali cuisine from the Gurung house is Kodo ko Raksi. It is alcohol made from Kodo and is also the most traditional alcohol beverage of Nepali cuisine. The liquor is made from rice and millet. It is in the Gurung culture to drink Kodo Ko Raksi in religious festivals and family events.
These are some of the most predominant ethnic groups whose food items are dominant in Nepal. Make sure during your visit to Nepal that you try every cuisine mention above. These are the signature dishes that define the people and their food.
Foods of Nepali Cuisine
Nepalese people love timely snacks and in time have preferred some foods over others. Some of the foods of Nepali cuisine you can try in Nepal are:
MoMo
When you walk any streets in any part of town or city, the smell of fresh steamed Momo fills the streets. Momo is the most eaten snack in Nepal. Every street has a momo shop selling different varieties of momo.
Momo is a sister dish of Tibetan dumplings but bit smaller, spicier and tastier. Momo is round substance covered with flour on the outside and filled with filling in the inside. The fillings are of several types ranging from vegetables, mutton, buff, chicken, bananas, paneer and any other substance people come up with.
Momos can be found in tiny huts in the corner of the street to even five-star hotels. The taste, presentation, and side achaar (pickle) or soup will vary from place to place. Undoubtedly, Momos are the most enjoyed dish among Nepalese cuisine.
Chowmein
Chowmein is another adapted form of Tibetan noodles. The noodles are boiled in hot water drained and fried with vegetables and sauce. Chowmein is the second most eaten snack in Nepal. Chowmein also comes in different variations like that of Momos.
Dal-Bhat
Dal Bhat is the daily dose of Nepali people. It is the main source of energy of Nepalese and they eat it every day in the morning and the evening. Bhat is plain boiled rice and dal is cooked lentils. Rice and lentils are farmed in most parts of hilly and Terai region thus have become a continually used product for daily food. A side dish of dal-bhat is the curry. Even though dal and bhat remain the same every day, the curry changes from meal to meal. People believe this is the main reason why Nepalese can eat dal-bhat every day.
Apart from aforementioned dishes, there are still innumerable varieties of dishes found in Nepal. If you wish to visit Nepal and explore all the ethnic dishes and get to know people through their food, surely once is not enough. The Nepali cuisines reflect the cultural and ethnic diversity unified by widespread and appreciated food cultures all over Nepal. Indeed, Nepali cuisine is still very mysterious and not explored to the fullest extent. You can visit Nepal and explore the hidden secrets and foods in the ethnic settlements all over Nepal.
For further information regarding Nepali Cuisines and your trip to Nepal, you can check out our website. If you have any queries and require additional information about our past works, our experience in the field, customer satisfaction, and any other details feel free to contact from our website contact page.
Check additional pages and information regarding other travel and tour destinations in Nepal in our blog here.
A good trekking experience depends on the essentials you carry for the trek. Carry too much equipment becomes a burden and taking too few items make trip hellish and gruesome. The right essentials of the particular trek are crucial in determining the success or failure of your trek. Many of you spend longsome hours on deciding what you may or may not need for the trek. We will discuss in detail what you need to carry and avoid when you are trekking in the hills of Nepal.
Trekking Vs. Hiking
We’ve seen many people confuse between Trekking and Hiking. Some pack trekking essentials for hiking and others carry hiking equipment in trekking. Hiking is a one-day activity while trekking is of minimum three days. Trekking is longer in duration thus requires much though-out packing.
If you take hiking materials on a long trek, then you will be undersupplied and taking trekking materials for a hike, the equipment will be unused and heavy during your hike. So make sure you do a lot of research on what you absolutely need to carry and things you can omit in your backpack.
Trekking Essentials
Trekking is of many forms and durations whilst trekking essentials can vary from the type and location of your trek. For instance, a mountain trekking essentials can differ from a jungle trek. Some of the basic trekking essentials you must carry on your trip to Nepal are:
Duffel Bag and Backpack
Duffel bags are large bags that hold all your belongings like clothes, food materials, spare shoes, and other materials. If hired a porter to carry your Duffel bags, make sure they are sturdy and waterproof. In the Himalayas, Duffel bags are often carried in donkey’s back exposed to the weather. Thus, your Duffel bag needs to be of quality materials and able to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Backpacks are the bags you carry on your back. Prefer a waterproof backpack with a capacity of around 30 liters to hold frequently needed items like cameras, books, water bottles, a waterproof jacket and some edibles you need on a day’s trek.
Trekking Boots
Prefer carrying boots instead of light shoes while trekking in Nepal. The terrain is uneven with lots of bumps and rocks. A quality trekking boot can prevent your ankles from rolling during treks. A good pair of trekking boots is ideal for traveling in any part of Nepal without worrying about compatibility of shoes with the terrain. They can be used in high altitude treks as well as low altitude jungle treks. Boots with ankle protectors is useful to avoid any mishaps in a stony trek route like Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp.
Cargo Pants
Cargo pants are an essential item in trekking. Cargo pants are made of quick-dry material and have lots of pockets. These trousers are quick to dry after a wash, lightweight and are perfect for storing light snacks and small items like knife, sanitizers, and creams. The lightweight of cargo pants makes it perfect lightweight clothing item to reduce your backpack weight.
Waterproof Down jacket and Windcheater
Trekking in broad daylight might not need down jacket in dry places like Langtang and Mustang, but the temperature in higher altitudes drops significantly, so in the night your down jacket is essential to get additional warmth.
Windcheater is very important in your treks. A higher elevation in Nepal has cold and speedy winds. A branded windcheater helps to counter the winds and keep you warm during your day treks. Both down jacket and windcheater have very less weight and easy to pack. These jackets can be folded to small balls like structure and takes less space in your backpack.
Long Sleeve Trekking Shirts and Cotton Shirts
When you are trekking in Nepal, make long sleeve shirts a priority. In higher altitudes, long sleeves provide added protection from sunburn, sun allergies and rashes. Long sleeves also protect your skin from humidity and keep you warm. Long sleeve cotton shirts are used as a base layer when in colder areas and also as a cloth to sleep during nights.
Sleeping Bags
Sleeping bags are essential for long duration treks in Nepal. Not all trekking destinations consist of well-infrastructure tea houses. If you trek on some popular trekking routes like the Annapurna and Everest route, several tea houses provide well-furnished rooms to stay, hot showers, warm and fresh food. However, secluded locations like Thorong La, Thorong La, Rara, Shey Phoksundo based on camping treks where sleeping bag is a choice when you have to spend nights in a tent.
Tents suitable for -15°F will suffice for any high altitude treks in Nepal. You can also carry an inside line for additional warmth in colder situations.
Water Bottle and Purification System
Water found in the taps and rivers may not be suitable to drink on treks. So prefer to carry water bottles to store water to drink. A bottle with inbuilt fiber is ideal for trekking in the hills of Nepal. You can also carry Life Straw to drink water from tea houses and tap waters.
You must carry a simple water purifier on your treks. Many trekkers face difficulty in adjusting to the drinking water of Nepal. To avoid such discomforts, its better option to carry water purifier, electrolytes or flavor powder.
You must avoid carrying lots of plastic bottled waters. These bottles are the major source of garbage in the trekking trails and litter the environment. Alternatively, you can carry 2 or 3 liters fiber cap bottles and store water in one bottle and purify water in remaining two. In this way, you will have access to clean and purified drinking water and the trekking trails remain clean.
Trekking Poles
Trekking poles may not seem to do much but is very important in easing the trek. Trekking poles provide you with additional support in your trek. Steep ascend and descend in parts of trek requires additional support which the trekking poles will provide. The trekking pole supports a part of your weight and lessens the burden your ankle and legs feel in the trek. This helps to protect the ankle from being worn and tired early in the trek.
Hats, Sunglasses and Sun Block Creams
The sun comes out almost every day in Nepal. You will need a cotton hat, sunglass and sun block cream to prevent skin burn, face rashes and skin cracks in the cheeks. Hats provide you with shade to cover your face from intense sun rays in the high altitude treks; sunglass helps to protect your eye and sunblocks to take care of your skin from harmful UV rays.
Foods
Once on your trek, you won’t find department stores and shopping malls in Nepal to purchase meals and other supplies. Stock up supplies in major cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara. Once on your treks, you will get just domestically produced products as supplies. Carry energy bars and drinks for added calories in times of need in the trek.
Locks
Locks can be very crucial to protect your belongings from being lost, misplaced or even stolen.
First aid and miscellaneous
You must carry small first aid kit just in case you need on the trek. The medical package must contain paracetamol, bandages, antiseptic, bite/burn cream. Also carry some washing materials like biodegradable soaps, toilet papers, and large garbage to keep your litters like wrappers and cans in check.
These are some of the essential items require in your treks. Some other items are trekking specific. Mountaineering gears like ice axe, ice grips, ropes, and Carabineers are vital for mountaineering treks. Items like insect repellent are must have for jungle safari treks. Some other items that you may need in your treks but aren’t much essential are:
Cell Phone and Power Bank
Laptops and Ipads
Cords and Adapters
Books and Journals
Traction Devices and Altimeter
So, prepare your trekking items as per the destinations you will travel in your trek and the activities you will perform during the trek.
For further information regarding Trekking Essentials and your trip to Nepal, you can check out our website. If you have any queries and require additional information about our past works, our experience in the field, customer satisfaction, and any other details feel free to contact from our website contact page.
Check additional pages and information regarding other travel and tour destinations in Nepal in our blog here.
The Kumari or Kumari Goddess is the only living goddess worshipped by Hindus and Buddhists. The literal meaning of Kumari is Virgin. The Kumaris are young pre-pubescent girls who receive the power of Goddess Kali and Taleju. Kumari Goddess is the living incarnation of Goddess Taleju. Kumari is the human embodiment of Goddess Taleju and symbolizes power and protection.
Kumari Living Goddess History
There are several tales regarding the history and origin of Goddess Kumari. Among the few, two similar tales concerning the King and Goddess Taleju are widespread and believed by many communities.
The first tale is of Jaya Prakash Malla, the last king of the Malla Dynasty. According to the legend, Goddess Taleju visited Jaya Prakash Malla’s chambers during night time as a beautiful woman. They would play Tripasa (a dice game). The goddess visited the king’s chamber every night on the condition that the king refrains speaking about their meetings to anyone.
One fateful evening, the king’s wife followed him to his chambers and inspected on his secret meetings with the goddess Taleju. The goddess became aware of the king’s wife and left furiously. Goddess Taleju told Jaya Prakash in his dream that she would reincarnate as a living goddess in children among the Shakya and Bajracharya community of Ratnawali. In his attempt to make amends with Goddess Taleju, Jaya Prakash Malla searched for children possessed by Taleju’s spirit and hence started the Kumari Goddess tradition. Jaya Prakash also built a house for Kumari to stay near the palace and named it “Kumari Ghar.”
A second myth about the origin of Kumari Goddess circles around King Trailokya. According to myth, Goddess Taleju and King Trailokya played Tripasa every night and discussed the welfare of the country. One night, Trailokya made sexual advances towards the Goddess and infuriated her. As punishment, Goddess stopped visiting the King’s place. Trailokya worshipped and pleaded for her return. Later, Goddess Taleju agreed to appear in the body of a virgin girl from the Shakya family. Hence, the Kumari Goddess cult was established.
Life of Kumari Goddess
After being selected as a Kumari, a girl life changes entirely. She will leave her palace only for ceremonial purpose, her family will rarely visit on a formal capacity and her playmates will be from the caretaker’s family. The Kumari always wear red clothes, hair in a topknot and the fire eye painted on her forehead.
The Kumari’s walk in the Durbar Square is the last time her feet will touch the ground until the Goddess Taleju departs from her body. The Prime Minister and President touch the feet of Kumari and seek for a blessing. The Kumari is carried when visiting outside the palace in her golden palanquin.
A Kumari’s glimpse is believed to bring good fortune. Many people visit the courtyard in front of Kumari’s window to get a glance of the living goddess. The more fortunate and better-connected people visit the Kumari in her chambers. She sits upon a gilded iron throne. Many people who visit her are those suffering from illness and menstrual disorders. It is believed that Kumari has special powers over such illness. Bureaucrats and high ranked government officials also visit Kumari Goddess. During the visit, the actions of the living goddess are closely watched because her actions are interpreted as a prediction of the visitor’s life. Some actions and its meaning of Kumari Goddess are:
Crying or Loud Laughter: Serious illness or death
Rubbing Eyes: Imminent death
Trembling: Imprisonment
Picking at food offerings: Financial Losses
Selection process of Kumari Goddess
The process to find a living goddess is quite vast and has many criteria. Five senior Buddhist Bajracharya, Chief Royal Priest, Priest of Taleju and royal astrologer oversees the selection ritual of Kumari. Some basic characteristics searched in children are sound health, no evidence of scars and marks on the body, uncut and blemish body skin, pre-menstrual and no loss of teeth.
Once a girl passes through the basic requirements of Kumari Goddess, she is then further examined for “Battis Lakshan” 32-body perfections to decide the future Kumari. Some of the characteristics of Battis Lakshan are:
Body like a Banyan Tree
Eyelashes like Cow
Neck like a conch shell
Chest like a lion
Voice soft and clear as of a duck
Same horoscope as of the King
Sign of Serenity and Fearlessness
Black Straight Hair and Dark Eyes
Delicate and Soft hands and feet
Thighs like those of a deer
Small and moist tongue
Sexual Organs small and well-recessed
The children also must not be scared of blood and masked man. Every child is shown several sacrificed buffalo and masked men dancing on top of the blood. If a child shows signs of fear, she is deemed not worthy of Goddess Taleju’s power. The girl that shows courage amidst the blood and dancing is then selected as the next incarnation of Goddess Taleju.
During the 8th day of Dashain, Kala-Ratri, the selection process of Kumari Goddess begins.
How is Kumari Goddess Dethroned?
Kumari Goddess is the human symbol of power and protection. Kumari is the sole embodiment of pureness among Hindu and Buddhist followers. A Kumari must be in her pre-pubescent and should not have lost any drop of blood from her body. After the Kumari enters her adolescence and begins her first menstruation, she is considered impure, and the search of new Kumari starts.
In some cases, the title of Kumari is lost when the reigning Kumari suffers a cut and loses blood from her body. If a Kumari loses blood from her body, she becomes like any other humans and loses the power of Gods bestowed on her.
Strict and Isolated Life in Kumari House
Every people dream to be among the Gods once in their life, yet it is not easy to sustain the life of a living goddess. Kumari Goddess is selected at very young age from as small to three years. After being selected as Kumari, the children leave their parents and birth house until another living goddess replaces her.
The children live without their parents from such an early age. The parents are proud of giving birth to Goddess Taleju, but also remain sad parting away with their daughter. The parents aren’t allowed to visit their daughter and only see their children when Kumari ventures in special facilities, about 13 times a year.
Kumari lives in the Kumari house (Kumari Ghar), an old palace building without modern facilities. Until recently, the Kumaris weren’t taught education and allowed to use the internet facilities inside the Kumari Ghar. The Kumaris spend their days inside a four-wall room poorly lighted with candles and lamps. It is not easy being the only living goddess in the world.
Human Right and Children Right Activist Discussion of Kumari System
A recent discussion and pressure from Human rights and Children rights activists of Nepal on the Kumari system have somewhat changed the strict governing of Kumaris of Kathmandu. Kumaris weren’t given proper education and knowledge about social life and surrounding. This made the transition from a living goddess to mere mortal after dethroning much more troublesome.
Nowadays, Kumari in the Kumari house is provided with a personal tutor and education. There is even service of the Internet, books, and magazines. The Kumari attends national exams inside the palace under supervision. There is a step towards a better future of Kumari Goddess after they lose the title of living goddess.
Trishna Shakya, The Royal Kumari Goddess
There are many Kumari Goddesses in Nepal indigenous to several locations and communities. Patan, Bhaktapur, Kathmandu, Bungamati and other Newar communities have their own Kumaris. The Kumari of Kathmandu is considered as the Royal Kumari, the supreme of all.
Trishna Shakya is the current Kumari of Kathmandu who took over from Matina Shakya on 27 September 2017. Trishna was just three years old when she was declared the new Kumari. She leaves behind her parents and a twin younger brother to embark on the journey of living Goddess.
Nepal’s climate is divided into four major seasons, summer, winter, autumn and spring. You can visit Nepal in any season in a year. The best time to visit Nepal depends on why you are coming to Nepal and what you will do in Nepal. For instance, trekking should be avoided in the winter season while visiting Chitwan National Park in autumn is strongly suggested by guides and travel agencies. So, you should visit Nepal according to things you are planning to do in Nepal.
Seasons of Nepal
There are four seasons in Nepal. Each season lasts about three months. The seasons are:
Autumn: Autumn is the favorite tourist season. It lasts from September to late November. Autumn comes after the monsoon season bringing dry season and clear skies. Autumn is the perfect season for mountaineering and trekking. The temperature is mild, and visibility is clear in the mountains. Autumn season is the best time to visit Nepal for trekking and mountaineering and also the best time to visit Nepal to go wildlife safari and bird watching in the national parks of Nepal.
Winter: Winter in Nepal starts from December and ends in early February. The winter air is dry and cold. The skies in winter are clear giving a crystal clear view of peaks above 8,000 meters. There are few visitors in trekking trail in winter, so if you want an undisturbed meeting with some of the tallest mountains in the world, make yourself home in Nepal in winter.
Spring: Spring is another favored season by tourist to visit Nepal. Spring season falls in between February to April. In spring, the temperature gradually rises, and Rhododendron flowers bloom in the hills of hilly regions. Spring is a good season to go high altitude trekking as the climate is dry but not too hot for a trek. The nights are a bit chilly. Spring is the best time to visit Nepal for sightseeing heritage, monuments, flower blooms and cultures and traditions
Summer & Monsoon: Summer is the hottest season of all. Summer starts from May to June. May is the hottest month in all over Nepal. Late June and July bring monsoon rain from the East. The sky is cloudy in monsoon and is always raining, but results in green hills and flower blooms. Avoid trekking in the monsoon as the trails are muddy and filled with leeches. The climate is hot and humid, and it tends to rain once every day. So don’t forget to bring your umbrella if you come to Nepal in summer and monsoon season.
Nepal Trekking Season
Trekking is the main attraction for tourists in Nepal. Trekking experience is largely dependent on which season you choose to trek in the mountains of Nepal.
Autumn Trek: Autumn is a dry season that follows the summer monsoon months in Nepal. Tourists choose autumn to trek in high altitudes to reach the base of snow-capped peaks. Monsoon clears all the dust and haze from the sky and gives a crystal clear view of the majestic mountains. Tourists who come to Nepal solely to catch a clear glimpse of the Himalayas choose to trek in autumn season. However, autumn turns the leaves in the hills brown. Tourists trekking in autumn won’t enjoy the greenery and flower blooms in the hills that are present in the spring season. So if you are a mountain lover before greenery and flower blooms, choose the autumn season to trek.
Spring Trek: Spring is also a relatively dry season following the winter season. Spring is the season of birth after winter has disrupted plants and animals life. The beauty of spring is the greenery in the hills and the mesmerizing flower blooms. If you wish to see the national flower of Nepal, the Rhododendron bloom in several colors across many hills in your trekking trails, then spring is the trekking season for you.
Winter Trek: Here comes the surprise package with its distinctive advantages. Firstly, it seldom rains in winter which in turn the skies will be apparent and mountains are filled with blankets of snow. Regardless of the chilly nights, the sunny winter days are warm and perfect for trekking. If you are looking to trek at a time with few visitors, then winter is the season for you. Many tourists avert from trekking in winter because of the cold weather and snowfalls, but travelling in small groups with few visitors on the trail is an ideal in the winter season. Travelling in high altitude passes in winter is too extreme because of the cold but trek to base camps and viewing towers gives a clear and snowy sight of the mountains.
Now you can decide for yourself which season you want to trek in Nepal and choose which season is the best time to visit Nepal.
Best Time To Visit Nepal For Sightseeing
Tourists who are likely to visit Nepal for sightseeing cities, monuments, heritage, monasteries and culture and traditions must think in advance the season they want to visit Nepal. The visiting season for Nepal differs from the activities you want to do in Nepal. As trekking is ideal in the autumn season, sightseeing in autumn season is a bad choice as views from afar is disturbed by haze. There are many considerations to make when choosing a season for sightseeing in Nepal. We can help you decide to choose the season to visit Nepal for sightseeing.
Summer Sightseeing: Summer season is not a good season for sightseeing in Nepal, particularly in the Terai region. The summer season brings floods in the Terai region and halts daily operations like transportation and flights. Sightseeing in Kathmandu is ideal just after the monsoon season after the rain has washed the dust from the cultural buildings. If you want to sight-see cultural buildings of Durbar Squares in Kathmandu, summer might be a very good season for you.
Spring Sightseeing: Spring season is the best season to go sightseeing in Nepal. The sights in spring in the hills of Nepal are spectacular. The blooming of Rhododendron in the hills attracts many sightseers from all over the world. Spring flower bloom also attracts the 844 species of birds in Nepal. So, spring season becomes a hub for bird lovers and watchers as the best time to visit Nepal.
So depending on the type of sightseeing, you can choose your season to visit Nepal. Winter and autumn are also good to sightsee in higher altitudes in Nepal. Now you can decide which season is the best time to visit Nepal for sightseeing.
Best time to visit Nepal for Adventure activities
If you are an adventure lover and looking to try bungee, paragliding, white-water rafting, mountain climbing and other adventure activities in Nepal, you should be familiar with the season to visit for adventure in Nepal.
Spring Season: Spring marks the start of white-water rafting season. Paragliding and micro flights also take off but can sometimes be cancelled because of haze or rain. Bungee and zip line run throughout the season.
Autumn Season: Autumn is the peak season for adventure activities in Nepal. The autumn season is clear and dry with a clear sky throughout the months. The season is the best for all adventure activities like rafting, paragliding and bungee. Also, keep in mind that this is a peak season and you won’t be alone doing these activities. The adventure spots can be crowded with tourists. Arguably, autumn has to be the best time to visit Nepal to take part in adventure activities.
Summer Season: Summer is not a good season for adventure activities. The monsoon rain increases the water level thus rafting is limited in summer. Paragliding and micro flights are often cancelled because of recurring rain. Summer season is perfect for travelling in the rain shadow area of Nepal. Mountain bike riding and rock climbing are best for the summer season in the rain shadow area like Mustang and Langtang.
The best time to visit Nepal for Adventure activities varies as per your adventure act. There isn’t a perfect for every activity. Thus, autumn seems to be an excellent choice to cover up all the adventure activities in one season.
Best time to visit Nepal to see Jungles and Forests
Nepal is rich in flora and fauna from the Himalayan region to the Terai region. Tourists are attracted to the vast richness of forests in the southern Terai of Nepal. So what is the best time to visit Nepal to see the jungles and forests in their best condition?
Summer Season: Summer is the worst season to go jungle safari in the jungles of Chitwan and Bardia. The Southern Terai in summer sees constant rainfall. The forests will surely be greener because of the rain, but the animals will also be sheltering from the rain in their bills and dens. The humidity also kills any visibility chance of spotting the Bengal Tigers and Bengal Floricans. Thus, summer is not the best time to visit Nepal for Jungle safaris.
Autumn Season: Autumn is the best season to spot all the endangered animals and plants in the jungles of Nepal. The climate is dry, and there is less humidity in the air. The visibility is clear, and there is a greater chance of spotting the elusive Bengal Tiger. Other animals like elephants, rhinoceros and birds can be enjoyed to the fullest in the autumn season. Autumn is the best choice tourists choose for jungle safari and animal watching in Nepal.
Winter and Spring season: Winter season is also good for jungle safaris but not as good as autumn season. The jungles in winter are cold, and animals hibernate underground or in their homes. Spring is also suitable for safaris, but downpours can cause difficulty in safaris.
Except for summer season, all other season is rather good for jungle safari and forest travel, but autumn is undoubtedly the best time to visit Nepal for animal watching and jungle safari.
You can also contact us “Nepal Sanctuary Trek” on our website and leave a message in our contact page with queries and any information that you seek regarding the best time to visit Nepal. For other trekking and travel pages, you can see our blog here.
Kathmandu Valley, one of the most beautiful cities of Nepal is a paradise in itself. The city has many UNESCO world heritage sites, hiking and cycling trails, sumptuous monasteries, and outstanding viewpoint locations.
Kathmandu is the gateway to Nepal. There are many reasons why Kathmandu is the gateway; first Kathmandu is the entrance for a tourist in Nepal and secondly, Kathmandu city is only the city of Nepal that has the international airport.
Kathmandu is the most developed city of Nepal as well. All major tourism agencies are situated in Kathmandu. Tourists who visit Nepal make Kathmandu a hub to disperse for other destinations like Pokhara, Chitwan and other major tourist destinations. People often visit the most visited places or most advertised places in Kathmandu. There are many unexplored and unexploited places around Kathmandu that are equally majestic and exhilarating.
Some places to Visit in Kathmandu before you leave are
Chisapani
Chisapani is a small village nestled on the top of a hill inside Shivapuri National Park. Chisapani is one day hike from Kathmandu Valley. You can reach Chisapani in 4-5 hours hike from Sundarijal. The hiking trail falls inside the Shivapuri National Park. The park consists of several beautiful waterfalls and ponds.
Chisapani is located at an altitude of 2,160 meters; which is the nearest and one of the best place to view snow-capped mountains from a range. Tourists who prefer short stay in Nepal can take this two day trip of Chisapani to get the feel of majestic mountains and the natural beauty of Nepal.
Chisapani trip can also be extended for a round trip to Nagarkot. The hiking route is connected with passes through the picturesque traditional village, Mulkharka and later connects with Nagarkot. Chisapani is the nearest destination from Kathmandu to view Annapurna, Manaslu and Ganesh Himal range.
It is rather easy to reach Chisapani. Bus from Kathmandu to Sundariajal leaves every 30 minutes from Ratnapark. You can catch the bus from there and the last stop of the bus is Sundarijal. From Sundarijal, you can start your hike through the national park. The route is well mapped and people often travel the route.
Dhulikhel
Dhulikhel is very popular to see a panorama of the Himalayas. Dhulikhel is 30 km east from Kathmandu and can be reached in around 2 hours. Situated at an elevation of 1,550 m you can see the mountain ranges of Langtang, Gauri Shankar, and Numbur. Dhulikhel is also an old Newari settlement where tourists can experience a unique Newari lifestyle and culture. It lies in Araniko Highway that links Nepal to China. Dhulikhel used to be the trading center for centuries; it is still the commercial route connecting Nepal to Tibet.
Dhulikhel is the best place for those who like to escape from bustling Kathmandu valley to unwind under the foot of nature enjoying the serene atmosphere. Dhulikhel is bounded with green forests whereas the lower plains look exceptionally beautiful with carved agricultural terraces. Dhulikhel offers an outstanding view of Himalayan ranges that stretches from Mount Annapurna in the far west to Mount Caroling in the Far East and one can enjoy the sunrise and sunset view. More than 20 Himalayan peaks can be viewed from Dhulikhel.
Botanical Garden
The botanical garden is dedicated to cultivation, display, and collection of a wide range of plants. The garden comprises greenhouses and shade houses to protect and study tropical plants, alpine plants, and other rare plants. Godavari is full of biodiversity richness; the jungle of Godavari is home to at least 256 species of birds and around 300 species of butterflies and moths. The botanical is one of the places to visit in Kathmandu.
The botanical garden lies southwest part of Kathmandu in Village Development Committee of Godavari. Godavari as a whole is a tourist destination. It is a small town located on the ridge of the Mahabharat range hill. Godavari is covered by dense forest and hence has a very fresh and clean environment. This place is also popular as a stop on the way to Phulchauki. Phulchoki is a hilltop near Godavari at the height of 2,715 meters offers splendid views of the Kathmandu valley with a backdrop of the Himalayas. It is a popular hiking and bird watching destination near Kathmandu.In some cold winter days, there is a chance of snowfall and this place has been an ideal and nearest destination for snow lovers.
Narayanhiti Palace
Narayanhiti palace is the home of former Kings and Queens of Nepal. The palace is one of the most exquisite palaces of Nepal. The palace has three wings, the guest wing, state wing and private wing. The area of the palace is 3,794-meter square. There are 52 rooms in the palace, each named after the districts of Nepal.
After the revolution of 2008, the Shah d regime came into an end and the newly appointed parliament gave King Gyanendra 15 days to leave the palace. The palace turned to a public museum in February 2009.. It was inside Naryanhiti palace that the Royal massacre of 2001 took place. You can view the artistic beauty and glimpse the royal living standards along with the crown jewel inside the museum.
Nagarkot
Nagarkot is one of the most visited destinations by tourists in Nepal. Nagarkot nestled on the height of 2.195 meters and is popular to watch sunrise, sunset and view the Himalayas range. The ridge offers possibly the best afar display of Himalayas including Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) and several countless popular and unnamed peaks like Manaslu, Ganesh, Langtang, Choba Bhamree, Gauri Shankar, Shisha Pangma and so forth. Visitors must stay overnight to view the sunrise from Nagarkot.
The scene of sunrays hitting the face of the mountains is one of the iconic moments you will experience in Nepal. Nagarkot is also considered as hiking and cycling destination. People looking for a bit of workout and sightseeing take the hiking trails and cycling trails to Nagarkot. Hiking to Nagarkot can be done through Shivapuri National Park on a two-day trek. Nagarkot is also famous for Everest Paragliding.
Seto Gumba
Seto Gumba also known as White Gumba is a monastery in the hills of Kathmandu. Seto Gumba opens only on Sundays so better prepare beforehand when you get to Nepal if you visit this beautiful monastery. Seto Gumba is an exceptional place to visit in Kathmandu. The gumba is located in Ramkot VDC of Kathmandu in an area called Sitapaila. The monastery is outside the ring road of the Kathmandu Valley to the North West.
The traditional name of Seto Gumba is Druk Amitabh Monastery. This monastery has a unique feature. It belongs to nuns (female monks). Only female monks reside in the monastery. White gumba is a very beautiful place from where scenery of Kathmandu valley is seen.
You can visit the monastery and engage in photography and sightseeing. Taking pictures inside the Gumba is prohibited. You can also meditate inside the monastery on your own.
Visitors also mustn’t enter in restricted areas inside the monastery. The gumba area is a clean and peaceful, so making loud noises and littering around the area should be avoided. Drinking alcohol, smoking and taking outside beverages and food items inside the temple is not entertained by the nuns.
Nama Buddha
Nama Buddha is a Buddhist pilgrim site situated on the east of Kathmandu Valley. Nama Buddha is 40 km far from Kathmandu and falls under the list of places to visit in Kathmandu. Namo Buddha is among the holiest Buddhist pilgrims in Nepal that carries enormous historical importance.
The traditional name of Nama Buddha is Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery. The Thrangu Tashi Yangtse monastery is a home to more than 250 young monks. Tourists can join the morning and evening prayer in the monastery. The monastery is open to public viewing on Saturdays.
You can reach Nama Buddha in about 4 hours on a local bus. The monastery is in a serene environment between hills on the outskirts of Kathmandu. Namo Buddha is a one day trip. You can visit the monastery and stay the night in Dhulikhel.
Kakani
Kakani is another hilltop town on the hills of Kathmandu Valley at the elevation of 2.073 meters above sea level. The old settlement of Kakani is full of Tamang ethnic group that still live in the nearby hills. Kakani is a peaceful area famous for picnic and sightseeing. Nowadays, many schools and colleges from Kathmandu bring their students for a day picnic or a camp program.
Kakani is popular among tourists for viewing a range of mountains on the horizon. The hilltop of Kakani can be the destination to enjoy views of Ganesh Himal, Annapurna Range and Dhaulagiri Range. Make sure you avoid visiting Kakani on Saturdays. Saturdays are very noisy and crowded because of numerous picnics and other ceremonies.
These are some of the beautiful places in Kathmandu that you must visit during your visit to Nepal. These places are away from the crowd and bustling city. The environment is sound and peaceful. You can visit these places to calm your mind and avoid the dust and fumes of the city and relax in the fresh air in the hills. There are several other places in the vicinity of Kathmandu to visit like the ones mentioned above.
You can contact us for further information on tourist destinations around Kathmandu
Teri La Pass is a mountain passage nestled close to the Tibetan border. Furthermore, Teri La is a remote, adventurous, and very serene high-walking route. Despite being categorized as an easy trek, the altitude of Teri La Pass makes the trip very tricky and challenging.
Way to Teri La Pass
Teri La Pass is located in the remote and rugged Damodar Himal region, nestled between Nar and Mustang, at an elevation of 5,595 meters above sea level. This altitude is even higher than the Everest Base Camp, which stands at 5,380 meters. After crossing the seldom-visited Teri La Pass, hikers have the option to enter either the Nar Phu Valley or Upper Mustang. Furthermore, the Nar to Mustang Trek via Teri La Pass is an excellent choice for those seeking an authentic experience of the pristine and culturally rich Buddhist traditions that thrive in these regions. Notably, Teri La Pass offers captivating trails, leading from the untouched beauty of Narphu village to the enigmatic caves of Mustang.
Given that Teri La is among the highest passes in Nepal’s trekking routes, it is essential for trekkers to be in good physical condition and possess previous trekking experience. Individuals with health concerns and a history of altitude sickness should carefully reconsider embarking on a trek to Teri La.
Getting to Teri La
Teri La, a Nepali mountain pass in Mustang, offers a challenging journey rewarded with a breathtaking 360° Himalayan vista at 5,500 meters. It’s a paradise on Earth.
The sole means of reaching Teri La is by trekking on foot. While porters can assist with carrying heavy loads, mules and horses cannot navigate the path to the pass. Furthermore, Teri La is located in an extremely remote area, with Mustang itself often referred to as the “forbidden kingdom.” Teri La lies beyond this forbidden kingdom, and the phrase “a place beyond the forbidden kingdom” aptly signifies its isolation.
The journey to Teri La starts in Jomsom, Nepal, which you can reach by plane or road from Pokhara. Along the way, you’ll pass through different places like Kagbeni and Lo Manthang, which used to be the capital of the Kingdom of Mustang. After you explore Lo Manthang at 3,840 meters high, the trek takes you even higher. You’ll make stops at places like Yak Kharka and Samana Khola before you get to the Teri La Base Camp at 4,630 meters. After resting and looking around the Teri La Base Camp, the trek continues to Teri La Pass, which is at a whopping 5,595 meters above sea level.
Why Visit Teri La Pass
The Teri La Pass trek takes you on an adventure to explore Tibetan cultures and Buddhist traditions. It’s in a remote area in Upper Mustang, near the Damodar Mountain. You’ll discover ancient villages like Nar Phu, monasteries, and untouched caves. The journey also treats you to beautiful landscapes and breathtaking views of the Mustang region. But, it’s not a fancy trip. You won’t have luxury hotels, pools, or fancy meals. Instead, you’ll camp and eat simple food. Leave your modern stuff like smartphones and laptops behind, and embrace the natural beauty of the Himalayas. Teri La Pass can inspire you for the future.
Essential Things For The Trip To Teri La Pass
A well-experienced guide and local inhabitant staff and also a medical staff if possible
Ice Axe, Ice Boots, and Climbing Rope (Approximately 50 meters)
A full detailed map of the region
Quality Sunglasses
Satellite Phone and GPS
Pair of Quality Trekking Stick
A Strong Headlight
Water and Wind Proof Clothing Materials and Boots
Sleeping Bag, Mat, Warm Socks, Mufflers, and Gloves
Jomsom is a beautiful city located in Kaligandaki Valley of Mid-Western Nepal. It lies in the trans-Himalayan region of Annapurna and sits at the base of Mt.Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri. Jomsom is a well-equipped town of Lower Mustang region and often referred to as the Gateway to Upper Mustang.
The name Jomsom originated from Tibetan word “Dzong Sampa”, which translate to “New Fort”. King Thang Mig Chen of Thini established the fort to monitor the movement of people on the north-south trade route. The fort and the town was built near the trade route. The locals later called the place Dzong Sampa and gradually people visiting the place started to pronounce as “Jomsom”.
Jomsom is cut off in two halves by Kali Gandaki, the deepest gorge in the world. The town of Jomsom is situated at either bank of the Kali Gandaki river in Mustang. The altitude of Jomsom is 2,760 meters above sea level. Jomsom falls inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. The Jomsom area falls on the rain shadow of Annapurna range, thus remains dry for 6 months in a year.
Some facts and things to do in Jomson
Jomson sits on the banks of Kaligandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world:
Jomsom sits on the bank of Kali Gandaki river which is also a gorge. The Kali Gandaki gorge is the deepest gorge in the world. The canyon is one of the major tourist attraction of Jomsom.
The gorge separates major peaks, Dhaulagiri (8,167m) on the west and Annapurna (8,091) on the east. Kali Gandaki gorge has been used as a trade route between Nepal and Tibet for centuries. Today, the path is used as a trekking route from Pokhara to Muktinath
Dhumba Lake
Dhumba Lake is a green water lake that sits at the base of Mt. Nilgiri. The lake is sacred for Buddhists. Locals have fenced the lake with traditional prayer flags to restrict visitors from entering and tampering with the lake water. There is an interesting story about the sacred lake. Legends say that one day suddenly, the lake water turned blood red. Long after, Tibetan Buddhists performed religious ceremonies, and the lake returned to its former green waters.
The water of Dhumba lake is green in colour, thus called the green gem of Mustang. Locals come to worship and pray in the lake for a better future. Consuming fish from the pond is prohibited and considered as a sin.
Mountain Biking and Rock Climbing
Jomsom, vastly equipped with dry terrains and barren hills, is a rousing destination for Mountain Bikers and Cyclists. Many professional bikers come to Jomsom to conquer the steep slopes. Tourists nowadays bring their professional mountain bikes and make videos of them riding through challenging hill slopes. Mountain Biking is fast becoming a daily activity for tourist in Jomsom.
You can also try rock climbing in Jomsom. The lifeless vertical climb of nearby hills serves as heaven for rock climbers. The surrounding of Jomsom would be perfect for hosting either of Mountain Bike and Rock Climbing Competition.
Thakali and Tibetan Inhabitants
The people living in Jomsom are mostly from Thakali and Tibetan background. The people are descendants of their predecessors and have lived in the region since ancient times. The ancient culture, traditions and lifestyle are showcased in quaint villages made of stone and woods. The major economic activities are agriculture, livestock, tourism and labor in foreign countries.
The people have adapted unique way to survive in a cut off destination. People use wood for the fire, store wood in rooftops, graze cattle for milk and meat.
Muktinath
Muktinath is a sacred temple for Buddhist and Hindu followers. Located in Mustang Valley at an altitude of 3,710 meters, this holy temple lies in the foothills of Thorong La mountain pass. The Buddhists call Muktinath Chumming Gyatsa, which in Tibetan means “Hundred Waters”.
Muktinath temple has Hindu origin but also carries significance for Buddhist followers. A revered Buddhist guru Padmasambhava meditated in the area of Muktinath temple. Thus Buddhist followers from all over the world visit Muktinath temple. Hindu followers believe bathing in the waters from the taps of Muktinath clears away the sins of life. Many followers visit just to bathe in the freezing waters of Muktinath to erase their previous life mistakes and start a new chapter of their life.
Rupse Fall
Rupse Fall is a beautiful waterfall on the way to Jomsom. The fall is about 2-hour drive far from Jomsom. It is a resting point for many local and foreign tourists. The Rupse fall is more than 300 meters tall. The fall slides through steep rocky hills. The fall is small during the summer and winter but increases about ten folds during the monsoon season. Many travellers opt the Beni-Jomsom highway just to visit this exquisite fall on the way to Jomsom.
Mustang Eco Museum
Established in 1992, the Mustang Eco Museum displays various aspects of culture and nature of Mustang areas, such as Buddhist monastery, Herbarium, animal specimen, traditional dress, and artwork. Other features of the museum are excellent views of Jomsom, Thini village and Mt. Nilgiri. A guided tour of the museum, library and video shows all traditional and cultural background of Mustang, Tibet and Nepal in general. The museum is about five minutes walk far south from the Jomsom airport.
Hotel Bob Marley
Hotel Bob Marley is a famous hotel in the Muktinath region. This local restaurant has paintings and art related to famous singer Bob Marley all over the walls. The restaurant is a widely visited place by local and international tourists.
The hotel also has accommodation facilities, about 25 rooms, delicious food choices and a bit of funky feel about the place. Make sure to visit this hub once on your trip to Jomsom.
The capital of Lower Mustang
Mustang was a separate nation until 1992, called as the Kingdom of Mustang and also had an independent king. The kingdom was divided into two parts, Upper Mustang and Lower Mustang. Jomsom lies in Lower Mustang and was also the capital of Lower Mustang. Not many people know this because travellers only focus on travelling the Upper Mustang Region, The Forbidden Kingdom.
The geography of Jomsom and Upper Mustang resembles each other to a certain extent. Both locations fall on the rain shadow of Annapurna Range and have a dry and windy climate.
Snowfalls in Winter Season
Jomsom sits at just 2,760 meters but sees plenty of snow in the winter season. This region falls in the rain shadow area but winter season brings several feet of snow. Jomsom lies in between Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri mountains and behind the trans-Himalayan range of Annapurna and Machhapuchre. As Jomsom lies in between mountains, snowfall is widespread in the winter season.
Several feet of snow blocks transportation facilities to Jomsom in winter, making aeroplane flight the only viable option for transport during winter.
Visit Kagbeni, the windiest place in Nepal
Kagbeni is the windiest place of Nepal. The force of the wind in Kagbeni rivals that of a medium scaled hurricane. Kagbeni lies about three hours from Jomsom on the way to Muktinath. This windy place in the Kaligandaki Valley has ancient monasteries and museums that have stored Tibetan culture and traditions.
Chitwan National Park (former “Royal Chitwan National Park”) is the first national park of Nepal, established in 1973. The national park gained status as a World Heritage Site in 1984. The park covers an area of 932 km sq. Chitwan National Park is located in subtropical Inner Terai lowlands in south-central Nepal. The park is located in the district of Nawalparasi, Parsa, Chitwan, and Makwanpur. The park lies in the vicinity of Churia Hills, and its altitudes range from 100 meters in river valleys to 815 meters in the hills of Churia range.
Chitwan National Park connects with Parsa Wildlife Reserve in the East. The two national parks share the East border and together with Valmiki Tiger Reserve in south form the Chitwan-Parsa-Valmiki Tiger Conservation Unit with a combined area of 2,075 km. sq. The Valmiki Tiger Reserve borders Chitwan National Park in the South, and the Narayani River from the Western border of the national park.
Climate, Vegetation, Flora and Fauna
Climate and Vegetation
The National Park consists of alluvial grasslands, watersheds and moist deciduous forests. Chitwan National Park has tropical monsoon climate, and high humidity is present throughout the year. Monsoon lasts from mid-June to late-September and participates around 2000 mm of rain. Other months, the temperature lies from 20° C to 38°C and the temperature during night drops around 5° C to 15° C.
The vegetation found in Chitwan National Park is subtropical with Himalayan broadleaf forests predominantly with sal trees. The park is an example of biological evolution that consists of a unique assemblage of native fauna and flora from inner Terai ecosystems and Siwalik region. The fragile Siwalik-hill ecosystem is one of the major attractions for environmentalist and biologist who study evolution.
The lower altitude region of Chitwan National Park consists of wetlands, watersheds and moist deciduous forests, making perfect living conditions for Asiatic Elephant and the One-Horned Rhinoceros. The wetlands and lakes like Belshazzar inside Chitwan National Park were named Ramsar Convention in 2003 as vital wetlands that need protection.
Flora and Fauna
Chitwan National Park has a wide range of flora and fauna. The Sal trees and broadleaf forest covers around 70% of the national park area. Essential Sal trees like Chie Pine lie in the southern face of Churia Hills. Northern slopes consist of small flowering tree and shrubs such as Beleric, Rosewood, Axlewood, Elephant Apple and creepers such as Spatholobus Parvifiouus and Bauhinia Vahlii.
Even more astounding is the diverse range of fauna. This park is a habitat for more than 700 species of wildlife and diverse range of butterflies, moths, insects linger which are not fully surveyed yet. There are about 20 species of snakes including King Cobra and Rock Python. Additionally, starred tortoise and monitor lizards also dwell in the park. The Chitwan National Park protects endangered animals like One-Horned Rhinoceros, Bengal Tiger, and Gharials. The park also homes 544 species of birds and 50 species of mammals.
Things to Do In Chitwan National Park
Chitwan Jungle Safari
Jungle Safari is much-sought activity by both domestic and international tourist in Chitwan National Park. The Jungle safari takes you deep inside the wetlands and jungle of the park to view exotic birds, wild boars, musk deer and one-horned rhinoceros. If you are lucky, one might see the endangered Bengal Tiger. There are reports of Bengal Tiger even sitting in the path of safari jeep for about half hour giving people a near experience with the beast of the jungle.
The Chitwan Jungle Safari is done in many ways. There is a jeep safari, where people sit back of a jeep and travel inside the park viewing all the animals that come across the trip.
Chitwan Jungle safari is also done by walking too. Many tourists, mostly bird lovers, and wildlife experts travel the jungle and watershed by foot. Nature walk gives opportunity to observe many animals and birds silently from a close distance. Walking Jungle Safari is best with a guide and one must not explore alone.
There have been many incidents of attack, one when a tiger attacked Gerard Van Laar and his guide. Laar climbed a tree while Krishna lured the tiger to him. Later the Tiger returned and circled the tree Laar climber. After about 2 hours later, the guide returned with help and chased the tiger with sticks and saved the life of Van Laar. Gerard, in his press conference, said if it weren’t for his guide, he would be dead. So a well-experienced guide is of prime importance during the jungle safaris.
Canoeing
Several tourists canoe in the Narayani River and Rapti River to watch crocodiles and birds living on the banks of the river. The mugger crocodiles and gharials crocodile live in the waters of Narayani and Rapti rivers that bound the Chitwan National Park.
These beasts of river live under water during nighttime and surface on the sandy banks of the river to soak sunlight during the day. The Rapti and Narayani River holds the most crocodiles in Nepal and the best way of observing the animals and plants near the river is to canoe.
Elephant and Crocodile Breeding Center
Chitwan National Park holds separate breeding centre for elephants and crocodiles. The breeding centre is established to maintain the population of these animals. Elephants are quickly becoming an endangered species in the world and to protect and support the population of elephants, the breeding centre has established.
Crocodile breeding centre lies in the jungle safari route inside the jungle of Chitwan. The centre breeds water alligators and gharials and documents their growth from an egg to a full-fledged crocodile. The crocodile breeding centre is fast becoming a popular destination for tourists to watch and learn the habits of these river monsters.
Bird Watching and Sunset Viewing
Chitwan National Park comprises the majority number of species of birds than any other region of Nepal. There are about 544 species of birds alone in Chitwan. Among many endangered birds of Chitwan, some of the birds are Bengal Florican, Black-Chinned Yuhina, Gould’s Sunbird, Salty-Breasted Rail, Lesser Adjutant, Swamp Francolin, and Blossom-Headed Parakeet. Chitwan National Park is a paradise for every bird watcher and bird lover in the world.
Sunset viewing is also becoming much-enjoyed activity in Chitwan. The sunset view from Chitwan is spectacular as the sun vanishes in the jungle of Chitwan. The sunset is observed from the banks of Rapti River where most domestic, as well as international tourists, gather in the evening explicitly to watch the sunset.
Tharu Village Visit and Cultural Dance
Many traditional Tharu communities lie neighboring the Chitwan National Park. The Tharus are the native people of this area. The traditions of these ethnic people are witnessed by visiting their villages. There is also special dance performed in Chitwan in the evening showcasing Tharu people’s lifestyle, customs, and traditions.
How to reach Chitwan National Park
Chitwan National Park is around 167 km far from Kathmandu. There are two ways to reach the park; one is by vehicle through Naryanghat-Mugling highway, and another is through the airplane.
By Bus/Car
Chitwan is around 167 km south of Kathmandu and is reached through the main highway. The route to Chitwan goes through Naryangadh-Mugling highway and also goes through Mahendra highway shortly before reaching Chitwan. Travel by bus/car takes about 5-6 hours. Trips time will vary from local buses to private car and jeeps.
Local buses take 10 hours to complete the trip, stopping to fill the bus with people, to have lunch and other activities. A private car can complete the journey in less than 5 hours without stops for lunch, and bathroom breaks.
By Airplane
A quick way to get to Chitwan National Park is by aeroplane. Chitwan city doesn’t have an airport, but Bharatpur, a sub-metro town 10 km west of Chitwan does. The flight duration from Kathmandu to Bharatpur airport is 30 minutes. Chitwan is 15 minutes far from Bharatpur in a car. In under an hour, you will reach the wilderness of Chitwan from Kathmandu.
The Cost to Reach Chitwan
The trip cost to Chitwan is relatively cheap. The bus ride to Chitwan from Kathmandu ranges from 500-800 rupees in a local bus. Private exotic buses and reserved jeep cost more than standard fares. Travel agencies have a private and comfortable bus for tourists and may charge a higher fare for the trip. The coaches of travel agencies are very clean, equipped with air conditioner.
The alternative and quick way to reach Chitwan National Park is by flight from Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Bharahawa. The flight duration is less than 30 minutes from each of the above-listed cities. The cost of the flight varies from $80-$100.
Bardia National Park (Royal) is a protected area in Southwest Nepal established in 1988 as Royal Bardia National Park. Bardia National Park is the largest undisturbed and pristine park in Nepal’s Terai region covering an area of 968 Km. Sq. Two major river passes through Bardia National Park; the longest river of Nepal, Karnali and Babai River that bisects the entire park in almost two halves.
Bardia National Park shares eastern border with another protected area of Nepal namely, the Banke National Park. Collectively, the national park covers 1,437 km sq area and represents the Tiger Conservation Unit (TCU).
Bardia National Park is secured from human disruption activities unlike some other parks of Nepal. There is set a boundary for a human settlement near the park boundary. Thus, no human settlements are permitted to settle inside the park. The southern border of Bardia National Park touches the Nepalgunj-Surkhet highway that adversely disturbs the serene environment of animals of the park. Innumerable deer and monkeys often are hit by speeding buses that run in the highway.
Things to do in Bardia National Park
Bardia National Park is the most undisturbed park of Nepal and also the biggest of Terai Region. Wildlife escapade to the pristine, natural lure of Bardia National Park can be an ideal option to observe and experience the wilderness.Some activities to take part whilst visiting Bardia National Park are:
Jungle Safari and Walk
Bardia National Park is settlement-free where not many people are found inside the park. If you are looking for people free trip amidst vast wilderness, Bardia is the place to be. The Jungle Safari is one the most participated event by tourists.
Tourists can also take a nature walk to explore the wilderness of Bardia. Not many local people visit the park. Tourists walk in a group or with a guide to have a better chance of spotting the tigers, watching birds and other animals and plants.
Searching for the Bengal Tiger
Bardia National Park along with Banke National Park is a Tiger Conservation area that homes more than 60 tigers. The Bengal Tiger of Bardia is its main attraction. Tourists in Bardia safari have the most probability of sighting and encountering wild Bengal Tiger than in other national parks of Nepal.
Bird Watching
Bardia National Park is a habitat of more than 400 species of birds and an ideal spot to observe varied range of birds and hear melodic sounds of chirps and twitters in serene atmosphere. The park homes endangered birds like Bengal Falcon and Sarus Crane. Thus, bird watching in Bardiya national park is a sheer enjoyment and a paradise for bird enthusiast.
Meeting Asiatic Elephant and One-Horned Rhinoceros
Bardia National Park homes the exquisite Asiatic Elephant and the endangered one-horned Rhinoceros. The number of Rhinoceros has seen an alarming decrease and recent count revealed just 29 remaining rhinoceros.
The park also has an elephant breeding centre and keeps a constant watch over the elephants.
History of Bardia National Park
Nepal lost the area of Bardia National Park to East India Company in Sugauli Treaty. The area returned to Nepal after Nepal supported Indian Independence Movement in 1960. The nickname of the area of Bardia National Park is “Naya Muluk” which means a new country.
In the beginning, an area of 368 km sq was set as Royal Hunting Reserve in 1969 and officially renamed as Royal Karnali Wildlife Reserve in 1976. The park was renamed Royal Bardia Wildlife Reserve and included the Babai River Valley in 1984. Finally, in 1988, the park gazette as a national park and Royal Bardia National Park came into existence.
The parks in Nepal started with “Royal.” as a gratitude to the Royal family, but after the revolution to overthrow the King in 2063, the name “Royal” was removed from all National Parks in Nepal. The park is now called “Bardia National Park.”
During the regime of Shah Dynasty, the royal family would come to Bardia National Park for hunting purpose. Only the royal family and guest accompanying royal family were allowed to kill animals in the park. After the inception of democracy, all hunting and killing activities are deemed illegal. Bardia National Park is the most undisturbed park of Nepal and attracts tourists who prefer nature in its wild habitat.
How to get to Bardia National Park
Bardia National Park lies in the Terai region of Nepal and is accessible through various routes. The nearest sub-metropolitan city from Bardia National Park is Nepalgunj.
Bardia National Park is 516 km far from the capital Kathmandu and regular buses can be found from Kathmandu to reach the national park. The bus ride is long but quite comfortable. The drive to Nepalgunj takes about 12 hours by bus. There are daytime buses and night time buses to Nepalgunj. If you have time and want to take pleasure in the long distance trip to Bardiya National park then it’s the best way to take bus from Kathmandu.
The fastest way to reach Bardia National Park is by plane. Regular flights fly to Nepalgunj and back to Kathmandu. The flight duration is of one hour and can save 12 hours of bus ride to Nepalgunj.
Travel by plane is the best option for people who are on a short vacation and want to utilize their time more effectively. Instead of riding 12 hours on a bus, the one hour trip by plane saves time to travel and protects you from bus-lag caused from 12-hour ride to Nepalgunj.
Cost of Reaching Bardia National Park
The cost to reach Bardia National Park may vary as per the route you choose, mode of transport, the transport vehicle, and your travel agency. The local travel bus charges around Rs 600 to Rs 1000 for a trip to Nepalgunj. The price varies as per the bus you travel. The deluxe and VIP bus with modern services ticket price is higher as compare with standard bus.
Many travel agencies have their private bus designated for transporting tourists which are very clean, well equipped with air conditioner. Though the cost might be bit higher, the driver of travel agencies are experienced who value your life as much as their own life.
If you have money to spare and can afford a plane ride, Nepalgunj is just one hour away from Kathmandu. The fare for foreigners varies from $170 to $200 for a one-way flight. The duration of the trip is 60 minutes, and regular flights are available unless weather conditions are severe even to cancel the flight.
Resorts in Bardia National Park
Tourists stay in nearby resorts built around the buffer zone of Bardia National Park. Most of the resorts are in the banks of Girwa River that covers the western border of the park. The resorts are near the town of Thakudwara.
There are numerous resorts, hotels, and lodges available near the park. Most of the popular resorts situated near Thakudwara which is a major tourist settlement destinations.
The best option to choose a resort is contacting your travel agency and discussing the resort you want to stay. The travel agency can help in providing the best resort as per your budget, requirements and travel plan. You can also ask for recommendations from your travel agency on the best resorts available as per your travel needs.
Bardia National Park Map
Bardia National Park lies in the Southwest region of Terai in Nepal. The park is the largest park of Terai region. The previous settlements that used to live inside were settled elsewhere to preserve the habitat, protect animals and plants inside the park. The park is long and adjoins with Banke National Park in the East.
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) is a unique program performed by students studying Diploma Programme (DP) by colleges affiliated to International Baccalaureate (IB). CAS is a mandatory programme that every student must take part in to complete the IB Diploma Programme.
The CAS activity involves students in a range of activities besides their academic studies. CAS programme is designed to enhance the personal and interpersonal skills, promote healthy living and thinking, and encourage learning through experience
Core Component of CAS
CAS involves three major activities. These activities must be meaningful and must contribute back to the environment, people and the society. The activities of CAS must circle Creativity, Activity, and Service. CAS oversees the following factors in the programme to qualify the achievements for completion of the Diploma Programme.
Creativity
The literal meaning of Creativity is the use of imagination or original ideas to create something. The inventiveness and originality in the activities of the students are crucial in passing the creativity section of the programme. The supervisor is the one who decides to accept or reject your CAS idea. So, the idea you present for CAS must be genuine and showcase your individual work.
Activity
The activity section of CAS is structured so that students exert physically contributing to promote a healthy lifestyle. The physical action of CAS also compliments personal and mental growth of students on the importance of living a healthy life. The major action activities include trekking, hiking, biking, and another form of sports and any exercise that challenges you to live healthily.
Service
The service part of CAS of IB Diploma Programme is a major component to pass the diploma programme. The CAS must contribute directly or indirectly to an individual, society or an organization. The service activity must be voluntary and unpaid and must provide a valuable learning experience to the students. The main learning viewpoint of service activity is to develop and apply personal and social skills in real life situations. The experience is meant to improve decision-making, problem-solving, responsibility and accountability in daily actions of students.
Why is Nepal ideal for CAS?
Nepal is a beautiful country nestling in the shadow of the majestic Himalayas and shares vast culture, traditions amidst the relatively small population and encompasses a varied range of flora, fauna, rugged mountains and diverse landscapes. So students can get an opportunity to learn and research in the field of anthropology, zoology, botany and several other fields.
The majority of people of Nepal lives in remote areas cut off from modern technologies and necessary infrastructure. Mostly people from higher altitudes are deprived of getting basic needs, proper education, houses and communication services. Students can plan creative activities to do in rural villages where they reach through trekking and conduct service programmes to help underprivileged people of Himalayas.
In one trip, you can complete the entire basic requirement for the completion of CAS and gain an excellent experience. As, CAS program enables to boost personal and interpersonal development through experimental learning, get opportunities to work and participate in sustained collaborative projects, experience the rural life, develop new skills, meeting new people and immerse yourself into a culture and serene beauty of nature.
Ideas for CAS activities in Nepal
Many students ponder forever in internet searching “What can I do for creativity in the CAS in IB?”, “What can I do for IB Diploma CAS activities?” You can come up with your own ideas and obtain permission from teacher. People forget learning experience and service to society is an important factor for getting the approval of CAS task. Some ideas for CAS activities in Nepal are:
There are numerous creative tasks one can do in Nepal. Some general ideas for creative activities to do by CAS students in Nepal are:
Plan and execute art projects for kids in rural schools
The schools in rural areas of Nepal are some of the least equipped schools in the world. The schools lacks qualified teachers and students do not have materials to write and books to study.
You can plan to teach students art like painting, drawing, origami and other creative stuffs. Educating children in schools and monasteries is very famous among CAS students who visit Nepal.
Create Documentary and short films
Nepal is filled with many potential story plots. The existence of Himalayas, hard-working people, hospitality, cultures, and traditions dating back to hundreds of years, all can be a potential film.
CAS students can showcase their creativity and skill by creating a documentary on lives of people’s life of Nepal, struggles of living in high altitudes, the life schedule and structure of diverse community with several customs and tradition managing to live by embracing each other’s festivals and customs.
Technical Innovation to aid society and communities
The countryside of Nepal is deprived of basic infrastructures like roads, electricity, communication services and fuel for the fire. Any innovations like a small generator to generate electricity, communication methods for higher altitudes, the alternative fuel source for these remote places is very creative.
These new idea can save several tons of firewood and improve difficulty of communication prevailing in the areas. Any technological innovations are encouraged, that even in the slightest makes the life of these people better than the current situation.
Learning Musical Instrument and Dance
Nepal is diverse in the sheer number of ethnic groups. Each ethnic group has their own festivals and traditions. The different ethnic group has their own music dance and musical instruments inherited from their ancestors.
CAS students who are interested in learning new musical instrument and dance style can visit the ethnic communities of Nepal. In many parts of Nepal the ethnic villages untouched by modern developments and luxuries which you can visit to learn more about these people’s traditions, the style of music , dance and the meaning of music and dance of different specific communities.
Develop website and labs for Schools, NGO’s and INGO’s
Nepal still lacks technological edge in many areas of the country. The urban institutions do have well-designed websites, but same is not the case for schools, NGO and INGO and charity organizations who focus on providing support for people living in rural and isolated parts of Nepal.
CAS creative activity also includes developing websites for such noble cause organizations. Many such institutions need technical guidance in their day to day work and work websites. You can reach these places, know about their work life and design a suitable website.
In this digital age, children in rural parts of Nepal do not have luxury of using computer and reaps the benefit of it. Building computer labs in schools and aiding students in using a computer is also an activity that needs support from you.
Photography and Blogging experiences of travel
While traveling the beautiful places of Nepal, photography and blogging the adventures is a new way of doing a creative activity in CAS. Photography shows the story of your travel. The pictures of snow-capped mountains, rare and endangered animals and birds, ethnic settlements and lifestyle show understanding of the importance of life in every corner of the world.
Blogging shows the creativity in writing, understanding the environment and the people who are framed in the pictures. Sharing experience to teach children, the smiles of children after helping them in any way gives a unique sense of satisfaction unlike any other.
CAS Ideas for Action Activities
Nepal is a gold mine for Action activities. Not many other countries offer wide variety and locations for Actions like there is in Nepal. Yearly many Diploma Colleges suggest Nepal for action activities in the CAS structure. Some CAS Ideas for Action Activities in Nepal are:
Trekking & Hiking
Nepal is a paradise for trekking and hiking enthusiasts. What can be more physically challenging than 10-20 days trekking through numerous passes, hills, ethnic villages and harsh terrains? Climbing several hills, sleeping in tents at the foot of a mountain under bright stars filled skies challenges your physical limit, builds thoughts towards healthy diet and lifestyle.
Hiking is also a perfect option for people with a time constraint. Hiking in green hills, passing forests, and several waterfalls build new energy and perspective towards how to live your life. Trekking and Hiking is the popular idea of CAS activity in Nepal.
Rafting in Nepal
Nepal consists of more than 6,000 downstream rivers and most of them fast flowing through the hills of Nepal. Rafting in Nepal is very sought out activity by CAS programme students. The fast flowing rivers of Nepal requires very physical work and the perfect activity for your CAS requirement.
Rafting is available in many rivers in Nepal, majorly in Trisuli, Sun Koshi, Bhote Koshi and many others. You can consider rafting as an excellent idea for CAS action activities.
Bungee Jumping
Nepal is famous all over the world for Bungee Jumping. Bungee doesn’t challenge your body physically like in trekking and rafting, but the mental pressure in attempting the jump is what makes Bungee an idea for action activity in CAS.
Preparing the mind to jump off a cliff with just a rope tied to your leg is stressful. A bungee jump can change a person’s personality too. The leap has the power to eradicate fear and uncertainty from an individual. Bungee can raise a hidden personality and drive in an individual to strive for greatness in the future. Thus, Bungee is considered an idea for CAS activity all over the world.
Mountain Climbing
Nepal is the land of mountains. Nepal is also called the area of eight-thousander because of the number of peaks above 8,000 that nestled in Nepal. If you looking for a challenging idea for action activity in CAS, then there is not much challenging you can find that climbing a mountain in the Himalayas.
Mountaineering is extremely challenging to body, mind, and soul. Reaching the summit of mountains requires proper planning, hard work, rigorous training, patience, and discipline. The expedition requires months of planning. If you have prior mountain climbing experience, then you can try some peaks from 6,000 to above 8,000 meters in Nepal as an option for action activities for your CAS.
CAS Ideas for Service Activities
There are countless areas and locations where service and volunteering require in Nepal. The social and economic situation of Nepalese people living in isolated places in the hilly and Himalayan region of Nepal is dire in comparison to people living in cities of Nepal. People who are living in remote areas have no access to communication technologies and other basic needs like roads and medical services. Some ideas for Service Activities of CAS in Nepal are:
Teaching students of Local School and Monasteries
The schools of rural areas lack adequate qualified and experienced teachers. Teachers do not opt to teach in rural schools, often leaving children without tutors to tutor them. A trending service activity is working as a tutor for children in rural schools and monasteries.
You can teach children many things, including skills, art, musical instruments, how to use a computer and can provide insight on environmental protection, cleanliness and hygiene. You can share your knowledge and ideas with children that you have learnt and experienced. In addition, you can also choose to teach young monks in Monasteries.
Building Library for schools of Isolated Regions
Building a decent library for the students in rural schools is also a potential idea of service activity for CAS. The school children in country areas don’t possess study materials and extra books to study. You can collect already read books from your friends, neighbors and online contacts. Donation of books is also a good option for obtaining a variety of books for the books.
Cleaning The Trails Through Trekking
Trekking is a recreational activity, but trekking will be more purposeful if you involve environmental sustainability while trekking. The strategy “leave no trace but leave only footprint” is the best way to be responsible trekker and as a part of service. Cleaning the trails, picking the trash such as plastics is a component of responsible environmental service activity. Many trekkers actively join in the initiative to rid the mountains from waste materials that are helping to deteriorate the natural environment of the trekking trails. Cleaning the trails is also an idea for service activity of CAS.
Conducting Health Camp and Awareness Programs
People living in the countryside of Nepal are not sufficiently educated and don’t have a proper understanding of the medical importance and how even to use general first aid. Thus, conducting health camp to inform people on the importance of good health and healthy habits is an ideal way to deliver the service.
You can plan and organize awareness programs on various social issues and methods of the remedies of social as well as economic problems. Awareness programs cover environmental protection issues, hygiene and sanitation, educational importance, use of technologies for a better life and so on. Awareness programs are a very popular idea of service activity in CAS diploma programme.
Awareness of the importance of water resource and significance of protecting trees would raise local attention to water conservation and reforestation process. A simple deed can change entire villagers perspective towards environmental conservation and slowly but steadily, the service can change an entire country. That’s why service is a significant activity to take part to complete IB Diploma.
Charity and Volunteering
The rural people of Nepal are struggling economically and live under poverty line. The earthquake of 2015 devastated several homes in rural areas, where people are still compelled to live in tents in the harsh weather conditions. Charity and Volunteering are essential for the survival of these people.
Charity money will help fund materials to build homes. Volunteers who are flying from all over the world are flying to Nepal in order to rebuild destroyed homes and support in any way possible.
The above article answers the question “Do You have any IB CAS ideas?” and also “What CAS activities to do in Nepal?” Nepal is cost friendly to travel and a safe place to visit. The hospitality is heartwarming, and experience of travel is breathtaking, and you also get to explore the most beautiful countries in the World.
Nepal is one of the most beautiful countries to visit and truly trekkers paradise for trekker enthusiast. No nation can compete with Nepal’s scenic and natural beauty. Lying is South East Asia between China and India, this developing nation holds eccentric natural and scenic beauty, biodiversity in plants and animals and several ethnic groups, cultures, and traditions all inside this small nation. With eight highest mountains in the world, Nepal is a home to hundreds of peaks and beautiful landscapes and rivers and Nepal has been a paradise for adventure seekers offering them ultimate challenges.
Landlocked by geography, Nepal shares an open border with India. The major identification of Nepal in world platform is for the beauty of mountains, culture, and traditions of people and also for friendly hospitality. Some of the beautiful places of Nepal are:
Lumbini
Lumbini is the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. Born as Siddhartha Gautam in 563 B.C. The distance from Kathmandu to Lumbini is about 230 KM and is reached in a day through a bus or a plane.
Lumbini is a holy land for all the Buddhist followers around the world and one of the most beautiful places of Nepal. Lumbini is declared a pilgrimage site for people spreading peace and love. There are some of the world’s best stupas and monasteries in Lumbini area. The eternal flame is also located in Lumbini.
The great Emperor Ashoka, when visited Lumbini built a pillar where Mayadevi, Buddha’s mother gave birth. The pillar is named in honor of Ashoka and still stands firm near the palace.
Everest Base Camp
Everest Base Camp is the gateway to the tallest peak of the World, Mount Everest. The base camp is situated at the height of 5,380 meters high up in the Himalayas; the base camp provides a thrilling experience and spectacular view of Everest.
It’s not the base camp but the journey to basecamp that will blow your mind away. The trek to Base Camp passes through exceptional viewpoint such as Kalapatthar at 5,643 meters, considered the best place on earth for watching Everest.
The trek passes through the Khumbu region, and neighboring mountains of Everest is also seen along the way. Everest Base Camp is one of the most sought out destinations in the world and only the people who have reached the camp know how it feels to be under the existing roof of Asia. Undoubtedly, the Everest base camp is among the most Beautiful places in Nepal
Tilicho Lake
Tilicho lake is considered as one of the most beautiful high altitude lakes in the World. Situated at the height of 4,919 meters, it lies in the Annapurna range of mountains. The lake lies in Manang district. The route to the lake is tremendously difficult as trekkers require to climb down a rocky mountain without any support sideways. The trek to Tilicho lake is completed in one day from the Tilicho Base Camp.
Rara Lake
Rara lake is the biggest freshwater lake in Nepal and the most beautiful one too. It is located inside Rara National Park and falls in Mugu district. Trekkers describe Rara as ”a shimmering blue jewel set in a ring of snowy peaks.”
Rara lake lies in an altitude of 2,990 meters above sea level, and the lake surface is 4.2 square miles.
Rara, as surrounded by Rara National Park is abundant with rare birds and animals. The park is also a major bird watching site as the part hosts about 214 species of birds and falls on the list of 50 beautiful places of Nepal. You have to visit the lake to see why Rara Lake is considered as a beautiful place in Nepal.
Muktinath
Muktinath is one of the most visited shrines in Nepal. Muktinath is located at an altitude of 3,710 meters at the foot of Thorong La Pass in Mustang, Nepal. The temple is widely sought out the temple in the world, mainly because it holds significant religious values to two religions, Hinduism and Buddhism.
Access to Muktinath is difficult. Weather conditions are anything but perfect with rapid winds and uneven roads. The best way to travel to this holy temple is to fly to Jomsom from Nepalgunj in the plane and then take a jeep or trek to the temple.
KhaptadNational Park
Khaptad National Park is a protected area of 225 sq. Km in the far-western region of Nepal. Tourists visit Khaptad park to watch the variety of animal species. Khaptad park is famous for rare animals like Asiatic Fox, leopard, Himalayan black bear and wild dogs. There are 287 birds in the protected area including Impeyan Pheasant, Peregrine Falcon, and White-Rumped Vulture.
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is the only Hunting reserve in Nepal opened in 1987. Tourists are allowed to hunt specified animals in the region. The park was primarily established to cater the needs of sports hunting and the conservation of temperate, subalpine and alpine ecosystems of western Nepal.
Some events allow hunting of game animals like Leopard, Goral, Serow, Barking Deer, Wild boar, and Himalayan Black Bear. Currently, Bluesheep and Himalayan Tahr are the only animals that are allowed for hunting in the Reserve.
Tengboche Monastery
Tengboche Monastery is also called Dawa Choling Gompa, located at Tengboche Village in Khumjung Nepal. The monastery lies in Khumbu region of Eastern Nepal. Tengboche Monastery is the largest monastery in the Khumbu Region.
The monastery and is its surrounding area is full of spiritual energy and positive vibes, thus falls under one of the beautiful places of Nepal. The monastery lies in Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and grants a panoramic view of Himalayan Mountains. The ten monastery trail of Khumbu is the main attraction of this region for trekkers and religious tourists. The Tengboche Monastery, built by Lama Gulu in 1916 bears daughter resemblance with Rongbuk Monastery in Tibet.
The earthquake of 1934 destroyed the monastery with the founder Lama Gulu. The fire also damaged the monastery in 1989. The monastery was built with the help of volunteers and donations from all over the world.
Annapurna Base Camp
Annapurna Base Camp is the home to Annapurna Range. The massif is 55 km long and hosts many snow-capped peaks. Annapurna Base Camp and the trek itself is a joyous ride through these mountains. Annapurna Base Camp lies in Annapurna Conservation Area, a protected area with an area of 7,629 sq. Km. The only mountain of the area above 8000 meters, Annapurna I has a 38 percent fatality-to-summit ratio, a ratio even higher than that of Mount Everest.
Annapurna Base Camp is a beautiful place in Nepal regarding trekking route, scenic beauty, enjoyment, and experience. Annapurna Base Camp is becoming a popular trek option amidst tourists and domestic people too. The increase in the number of visitors in the area also led to start Conservation Project with the objective to limit outsiders, gathering of firewood, and domestic animal grazing in the protected area.
The trek to Base Camp passes through amazing views of Machapuchare Mountain, the fishtail mountain and also pass traditional Gurung villages, who are the residents of the area.
Chitwan National Park
Chitwan National Park is home of the striped Bengal Tiger and endangered One-Horned Rhinoceros. Apart from these mammals, the variety of bird species also attracts tourists and wildlife researcher from all over the world. Bird watching in the Jungles of Chitwan is a very enjoyed activity among tourist. Some rare species of birds in Chitwan Park are Giant Hornbill, Lesser Florican and Paradise Flycatcher and the migratory Bish Hajar Taal.
Chitwan National Park is the first national park of Nepal, established in 1973 and attained World Heritage Site status in 1984. The park covers an area of 932 Km. And is located in sub-tropical lowlands of a Terai region of south-west Nepal. The altitude falls between 100 meters and 815 meters. The National park lies in Churia Hills an and wetlands below the hills.
Gosaikunda
Gosaikunda is an alpine freshwater lake located in Langtang National Park, at the height of 4,380 m. in Rasua District, Nepal. The lake has an area of 34 acres. The area near Gosaikunda has 108 big and small lakes and falls under the Ramsar Site, an International wetland conservation initiative. The holy lake is one of the most beautiful places in Nepal.
The lake freezes for six months in winter. Gosaikunda holds religious importance to Hindus. The lake falls under the Langtang Trek route. Langtang Valley also adjourns on the Gosaikinda trek.
Bardia National Park
Bardia National Park is the home of the Bengal Tiger. The park houses more than 60 Bengal Tigers and is also considered a Tiger Conservation Unit. Bardia National Park is the largest national park of Terai region of Nepal and the most undisturbed one too. There are no civil settlements inside the park. The previous settlement was resettled outside the park solely to preserve the park without human interference.
Bardia National Park lies in SouthWest Nepal in the Terai Region. Bardia National Park covers an area of 968 Km. Sq and is best for experiencing the natural wilderness of forest in Nepal. Walking Safari, Elephant Back Ride, Bird Watching, and Fishing is most tried out activity by tourists in Bardia National Park. Some endangered animals in the park are Bengal Tigers, One-Horned Rhinoceros, and the Bengal Florican.
Poon Hill
Poon Hill is a hilltop famous for a 180-degree view of more than ten snow-capped. It is well known for watching morning rays of sun hit the white snow of the mountains. Poon Hill lies at an altitude of 3210 meters.
Poon Hill lies 400 meters above Ghorepani and is very snowy in the winter season. Clouds block the view after 10 am, and continuous snow and clouds block the view of mountains. The summer season is the best time to travel to Poonhill. There are no lodges or tea house in Poon Hill, and necessary equipment should be carried from Ghorepani. The sunrise from Poon Hill is considered one of the best in Nepal seen from the hilly region. The viewing hill is among the beautiful places of Nepal.
Langtang National Park
The first Himalayan National Park, Langtang National Park is an ICUN category II national park with area coverage of 1,710 km. The beautiful and sacred Gosaikunda also falls inside the park. Langtang Lirung with a summit at altitude 7,245 meters is the highest mountain inside the park.
Renowned Buddhist Monastery, Kyanjin Gompa also lies just above Langtang. About 4,500 people live inside the national park, and most of them are Tamang ethnic groups. The park is recognized as popular trekking route, white-water rafting and climbing site. The park also homes the endangered Rhesus Monkeys and Red Pandas.
Phoksundo Lake
Phoksundo Lake is a freshwater lake located at Shey-Phoksundo National Park in Nepal. The lake is popular for its majestic blue-green watercolor. The lake lies at an altitude of 3612 meters above sea level in Dolpa district. Phoksundo lake has an area of 1.91 sq. Miles. The lake was formed after a landslide created a dam near the southern end. Phoksundo is considered one of the most beautiful natural lakes in the world. Phoksundo Lake is another beautiful places of Nepal that you must visit.
Shuklaphanta National Park
Shuklaphanta National Park is renowned for hosting the largest congregation of swamp deers in the world. The vast grasslands and wetlands inside the park is an ideal location for swamp deers. The park covers 305 sq. km of area. Shuklaphanta National Park has 700 species of flora and almost half the area of the park is covered in grassland. The forests are dominant with Sal trees and Khair and Sissoo also grow alongside rivers.
The park also hosts a wide variety of fauna. Shuklaphanta park includes 46 mammals species among which 18 are under CITES protection lists such as the Bengal Tiger, Indian Leopard, Swamp deer, Sloth Bear and Hispid Hare. One horn rhinoceros were brought from Chitwan National Park to establish a new viable population of the species in the country. There are more than 2000 deers in the park.
Shuklaphanta consists of 423 species of birds and has the highest number of Bengal Floricans. The park wetlands home 28 fish species and 12 reptile and amphibian species. Some of these include Rohu and Masheer, Mugger Crocodile, Monitor Lizard, Indian Rock Python, Indian Cobra and Oriental rat snake.
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Kathmandu Durbar Square is one of three royal palaces inside Kathmandu Valley. Dubbed as the home of the Newars,Kathmandu Durbar Square situates at the heart of Kathmandu. Several heritage sites collapsed in the earthquake on 25th April 2015 and are in the reconstruction process.
This Durbar Square is considered among the most beautiful places of Nepal. The living goddess “Kumari” also lives inside the Durbar square. Some of the important crafts and temples of the Durbar square are Hanuman-Dhoka Durbar, Taleju Temple, Kasthamandap, Nine-floor Durbar and stone craft of Kal Bhairav.
Time to time, the temples and buildings have gone renovations caused because of natural disasters. The durbars were the home of Malla and Shah rulers of Ancient Nepal.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is in Bhaktapur district inside Kathmandu Valley. Bhaktapur Durbar Square lists in UNESCO World Heritage site. The location is also called Bhadgaon and lies 13 km east of Kathmandu. Bhaktapur palace and 55 Windowed Palace are the main attractions of this durbar square. Two lakes surround Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Nyatapole is also a major attraction of Durbar Square.
This Durbar Square is also considered one of the most beautiful places of Nepal. Some of other most visited places of Bhadgaon durbar square are Golden Gate, Bhairav Nath Temple, Vatsala temple and the statue of Bhupatindra Malla.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square also suffered major damages in the earthquake of 2015.
Patan Durbar Square
Patan Durbar Square is the royal palace of Ancient Kings of Malla Dynasty. Patan Durbar Square is also called Lalitpur Durbar Square and is located in Lalitpur District. The area is the resident of Newari people. Still, Newari people live around the vicinity of Durbar Square.
Patan Durbar Square is amidst the most beautiful places of Nepal. The major structures in the Patan Durbar Square are Krishna Mandir. Krishna Mandir is a major attraction during Krishna Jayanti. Major followers all over Nepal and India visit this temple on that day. Some other renowned structures are Bhimsen Temple, Vishwanath Temple, and Taleju Bhawani. Lalitpur Durbar Square is also famous for its Museum. Patan Durbar Square also suffered damages in the Earthquake but not as significant as Kathmandu Durbar Square and Bhaktapur Durbar Square. The weakened structures are either being mended or given support using bars.
Boudhanath Temple
Another beautiful place of Nepal is Boudhanath, a stupa located 11 kilometers on northern outskirts of Kathmandu. The spherical dome and massive mandala make the stupa one of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal. In 1979, the stupa made it to the UNESCO World Heritage site. The stupa is one of the most visited sites in Kathmandu Valley. The stupa is vividly apparent from the sky with its massive area span and a large dome.
It is also said the stupa entomb the remains of Kassapa Buddha.
The Boudhanath stupa sustained massive damage from the 2015 earthquake, and the spire and the dome itself cracked severely. The reconstruction of the stupa began in November 2015 and completed with a modern touch. There is provision for lighting the domes in the night that makes the stupa even more beautiful.
Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)
Legend says Swyambhunath originated from a lotus that bloomed in a lake, that was Kathmandu valley itself. The stupa bears high importance to Buddhist followers. The stupa locates in the northwest of Kathmandu Valley on a small hill. The view of Kathmandu Valley is seen from Swayambhunath. The Swayambhu area is also another UNESCO site inside Kathmandu Valley. The stupa is a sight to behold and undoubtedly among beautiful places of Nepal.
The stupa areas consist varieties of shrines and temples dating back to Licchavi Period. A Tibetan Monastery, Library, and a museum are some recent additions in the area. Swayambhunath is the symbol of peace, harmony, and enlightenment. Its eye is supposed to watch over the entire world, which is represented by its dome. Swayambhunath is the pinnacle destination of Buddhism followers and is visited by thousands of people from all over the world.
Pashupatinath
Another UNESCO World Heritage site inside Kathmandu Valley. Pashupatinath is a sacred temple to Hindu followers located at the banks of the holy Bagmati river. The area spans over 264 hectares of land and includes 518 temple and monuments. Pashupatinath is the oldest Hindu Temple of Kathmandu and one of the major temples dedicated to Hindu Deity Lord Shiva. The main temple is built in Nepali Pagoda architecture. The top floors are of copper with gold covering. The temple has four doors, all covered with silver sheets. The pinnacle of the temple (Gajur) is of made of gold. Foreigners are not allowed to enter the vicinity of the main temple but are allowed to visit all remaining shrines and temples.
The earthquake of 2015 left the main temple area untouched, but other outer shrines and monuments were quite damaged.
Nagarkot
Nagarkot is a tourist city in Bhaktapur District popular as a destination to having a glance of beautiful sunrise and sunset from the view tower. Nagarkot is also famous for viewing the Himalaya range. The Everest views from the top of Nagarkot along with other many mountains like Annapurna Range, Manaslu range, Ganesh Himal Range, Langtang Range and views of Shivapuri National Park. Nagarkot also offers a panoramic view of Kathmandu Valley. It is one of the most visited places by tourists in Nepal. Nagarkot lies 28 km away from Kathmandu Airport and sits at the altitude of 2,195 meters.
Nagarkot also provides hiking and cycling opportunity. There is a hiking trail till Nagarkot. Otherwise, cycling up the hills to reach the tourist destination is also an alternative option to reach Nagarkot.
Illam Tea Area
Illam is the tea house of Nepal. The tea produced here is exported all over the world. The teal of Illam has an excellent reputation and market image in foreign countries. Tourists visit Illam Tea Garden because the view of the tea garden is breathtaking. The scene of entire hills covered in tea leaves and greenery till the horizon attracts quite a high number of tourists.
The Illam Tea area also has a famous hill called “Love Dada.” The place lies in a place called Kanyam and is also renowned for Horse Riding. The location is called Love Dada because the tea garden seen from the top of the hill forms a giant heart shape, thus named hill of love.
Upper Mustang
Upper Mustang, often called the Forbidden Kingdom is an isolated region in the Himalayas of Nepal. The place is called forbidden kingdom since it was restricted to foreigners till 1992 and is one of the most preserved locations in the world. The region follows Tibetan culture, traditions, and also speak the Tibetan language.
Upper Mustang trek bases on an ancient salt trading route used by Caravans. The kingdom of Mustang, Lo named Lo Manthang as the capital of the Kingdom. Lo Manthang is currently the capital of Mustang and is one of the major highlights of the trek.
The trek sees numerous human-made and natural caves, unseen geographical gorges, and hills and all the ancient monasteries, houses, and artifacts preserved since ancient times.
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is a protected area in southeast Nepal covering area of 175 sq. Km. The reserve established in 1976 covers wetlands, freshwater marshes, and lies along the SaptaKoshi River. Koshi Tappu is one of the major bird watching areas of Nepal. The reserve hosts rare mammals like Asian Elephant, Spotted deer, Hog Deer, Wild Boar, Golden Jackal and Smooth-Coater Otter. The Ganga river dolphin is also seen sometimes in the Reserve. The last 150 remaining water-buffalo inhibit the area along with Gaur and Blue Bull.
The reserve hosts 481 bird species, and most notable ones are Water cock, Dusky Eagle owl, black-headed cuckoo-shrike, striated grass bird, common-golden eye and gull-billed tern. People loving birds consider Koshi Tappu a paradise for bird watching.
Nepal also has many other beautiful places that are explored extensively and some not so much. There is a natural beauty, diversity in flora and fauna, several animal species because of the altitude differences and topology variations. Nepal is a place where visiting once is not enough. Even if you dedicate your life in visiting Beautiful places of Nepal only, one life won’t be enough to visit all the places of scenic and artificial beauty of Nepal.
Janakpur
Janakpur is a religious and cultural city basking in early Mithila culture. Janakpur was called Janakpurdham during the Videha Dynasty of Mithila region. The Mithila traditions are famous for their Mithila paintings. There are wall paintings all over the city. People draw these paintings on their wall of houses, streets and also on various objects.
Janakpur is a beautiful place in Nepal regarding culture, traditions, and history. Janakpur’s main attraction point is Janaki Mandir. This place hosted the marriage between Ram and Sita, the main characters of Sanskrit Epics Mahabharata. Sita was the daughter of the King of Janakpur and Ram was the son of Dashrath, King of Ayodhya.
The holy city, Janakpur is also famous for its festivals. The notable festivals to be part of in Janakpur is Rama Navami, the birthday of Lord Rama, Chhath Puja, Holi (festival of colors) and Vivah Panchami, where the wedding of Rama and Sita is celebrated by decorating the Vivah Mandap of Janaki Mandir.
Nepal is the holy land for fast flowing waters. The vast variation of altitude from 70 m to – 8848 m in a distance of less than 200 km, has blessed Nepal with numerous fast running rivers that gush down from the Himalayas cutting through mountains and carving deep gorges on their way to the lowland plains.
White Water Rafting in Nepal
Nepal is popular in tourism activities majorly for trekking. Nepal has over 6000 different rivers and major rivers like Kosi, Narayani, Gandaki, Karnali, and Mahakali originates from the glaciers of the mighty Himalayas. The massive altitude decline from the Himalayas to the Terai region of Nepal makes water flow crashingly in high waves with massive force. This force of running water has identified Nepal as the most potential for generating hydroelectricity.
Experienced as well as amateur rafters have the option of choosing the river to raft according to the difficulty level of the river and climate during the raft. Rafting in Nepal adds a natural thrill, scenic view of hills, traditional villages and sandy beach stay to your experience of Rafting in Nepal.
According to National Geographic, Rafting in Sunkoshi river is considered in among the top 10 rivers to raft in the world. This mention signifies the importance to try white water rafting in Nepal.
You can also enjoy deep gorges and vast river basins in famous rivers like Sun Koshi, Bhote Koshi, and Trisuli. Rivers like the Marshyangdi and Arun, provide some of the most scenic views for rafters. Diverse wildlife and flora along the routes add to the essence of these trips.
The best rafting experience in Nepal can be through these white-water rivers.
Sun Koshi River Rafting: Sun Koshi river features in many International articles and magazines for the top 10 destinations for white water rafting. Many tourist and professional rafters come to tackle and train in this so-called “River of Gold.” The river and the beach sand sparkle along the way.
Sunkoshi is very near to Kathmandu as it takes just 4 hours to reach the rafting spot. The camping beaches are clean, remote and on the banks of the river. The scenery of the hills and views of flat plains of the Terai are seen near the end of the raft. There are plenty of mid- and big-sized rapids for exhilarating thrills and a genuine rafting experience.
Trisuli River Rafting: Trisuli is the most commonly preferred rafting option in Nepal. Both domestic and international tourist enjoy rafting in this river. The raft is of average difficulty but is even harder during the monsoon season. Trisuli Rafting spot is 6-hour drive away from Kathmandu and can also be completed in one day.
Bhote Koshi River Rafting: The Bhote Koshi River, also called Tibetan River is north of Sun Koshi river and has steeper turns and rocky rafting paths. It is one of the most challenging rafting in Nepal. The destination is near famous Bungee spot, and beautiful beach hotels are available for stay in the location. The rafting, however, is dangerous and consider tagging along with a team instead of rafting alone in these rarely charted waters.
Bhotekoshi used to have a long raft section, but after a landslide in 2014, the total raft section was reduced.
Seti River Rafting: Seti river lies just 30-minute drive away from Pokhara The raft goes through a short section of the river but consists of numerous Grade 3 and Grade 4 rapids. The raft also encompasses views of Pokhara valley and scenic beauty of Annapurna Range.
Marsyangdi River Rafting: Marsyangdi is known as the whitest river and the fastest river in Nepal. Rafting in this river is not for faint-hearted. If you are looking for top entertainment activity and heart-to-mouth rafting experience, Marsyangdi rafting in Nepal is what you seek. The river follows the length of 150 km running down the steep hills in the Hilly region of Nepal passing through rocks and cutting through corners with tremendous force.
Tamur River Rafting: Tamur river lies in the Eastern region of Nepal. The river originates near the base of Kanchenjunga mountain and flows through hills and ends in the mighty Sapta Koshi river. The trip is a multi-day trip consisting of both trekking and rafting. Rafting in Tamur is challenging for beginners and can attempt with a support crew or with a group.
There are plenty of rivers in Nepal to try rafting. Be a beginner or an experienced rafter, the sheer abundance of rivers always provides a new river and a possibility of a new adventure in the rivers of Nepal.
Season for Rafting in Nepal
Nepal has four seasons of climate, Summer, Monsoon, Autumn, and Winter. Rafting rivers flow even in winter season too, but the water might get a bit chilly. People with rafting experience can try rafting in monsoon season (May-July) as the water level rises and carries much more force and speed in the waves. People prefer October to December as the period for rafting. The climate is warm, and the rivers have gentle waves too. Rafting in monsoon season is tricky but provides more thrill and fun. Whenever you decide to go rafting, We do not advise you to go alone, but it is better to go in a group just to avoid mishaps.
How are the rivers difficulty levels classified?
Rafting in Nepal has become a kind of sport, not for competing, but for enjoyment. Since there are many rivers with varying speed, power, and direction, government agencies have graded rivers as per the difficulty level for rafting purpose.
The grades are from 1 to 6, 1 being the easiest and 6 the hardest.
Grade 1: Slow moving current with fewer obstacles
Grade 2 and 3: Generally fast and little obstacles and middle size rapids
Grade 4: The rivers have long, continuous sections of white-water and large waves which requires strong paddling and good teamwork in the boat.
Grade 5: The rivers have great prolonged sections of rapids and big holes, which requires very strong paddling and preferably some significant rafting experience.
Grade 6: The river almost impossible to raft.
The rivers till Grade 5 can be raft upon with experienced guides.
Do you need river permit in Nepal?
If you are not a citizen of Nepal, then yes, you do need a river permit. The fee for river permit is Nepalese Rs. 80 and Nepal Rastra Bank accepts this permit deposit. The permit is attained through your travel agency too.
How to go rafting in Nepal?
The most prominent and easy way to access rafting is through travel agencies. Trying to go rafting without travel agency is also possible, but you need a river permit, rafting clearance, and other documents. Thus, choosing a travel agency to plan your raft is ideal to get maximum experience of rafting in Nepal. The travel agency will prepare the entire rafting trip, the destinations to ride, the residing hotels and food materials needed during the trip.
Choosing A Travel Agency?
We, Nepal Sanctuary Treks are registered tourism agency experienced in planning a custom itinerary as per your trip needs and requirements. We also provide all required equipment used for rafting purpose.
You can contact us for any further details regarding the trekking routes, places to visit and any other aspects of your travel needs.
Khaptad National Park is a protected area of 225 sq. Km in the far-western region of Nepal. Tourists visit Khaptad park to watch the variety of animal species. Khaptad park is famous for rare animals like Asiatic Fox, leopard, Himalayan black bear and wild dogs. There are 287 birds in the protected area including Impeyan Pheasant, Peregrine Falcon, and White-Rumped Vulture.
Poon Hill is a hilltop famous for a 180-degree view of more than ten snow-capped. It is well known for watching morning rays of sun hit the white snow of the mountains. Poon Hill lies at an altitude of 3210 meters.
Patan Durbar Square is the royal palace of Ancient Kings of Malla Dynasty. Patan Durbar Square is also called Lalitpur Durbar Square and is located in Lalitpur District. The area is the resident of Newari people. Still, Newari people live around the vicinity of Durbar Square. 
