Tourist Attractions

Kathmandu Valley
The Kathmandu Valley is indeed a unique type of valley, wearing an exotic setting. Twenty-five centuries back it stood as a large lake. It is completely surrounded by a tier of green mountain walls above which to the north tower the mighty snowcapped peaks during the winter. It consists of four major cities carrying great historic, artistic and cultural interest. They include Kathmandu, Patan, Bhadgaon and Kirtipur. Ironically speaking, Kathmandu Valley was an empire containing four petty kingdoms till the 17th century. The four kingdoms of Kantipur, Lalitpur, Bhaktappur and Kiritipur have today appeared as independent modern cities. The Valley with an approximate population of million and a half (i.e. counting the Tibetans and the Indians as well) covers an area of 218 square miles and is situated at an elevation of 4,423 feet above the sea-level as part of the Shangrila.

Kathmandu (Kantipur) - the Capital

(a) Karunamaya Temple:
It is a Buddhist pagoda of considerable artistic beauty located in a holy courtyard called Jan Bahal, which is full of stupas and statues nearby Indra-Chowk. It consists of a two tiered bronze roof built by King Yakshta Malla in 1502 A.D. This authentic temple is surrounded by residential houses and busy shops. The chariot festival of White Karunamaya-the "God of Mercy" is annually celebrated in Kathmandu Valley.

(b) Akash Bhairab Temple:
Also referred to as the Blue Bhairab sometimes, it is a three-storeyed temple in the principal market called Indra Chowk. The divine image of the Akash Bhairab is displayed outside for a week -long period during the great festival of Indra Jatra. The celebration of Indra Jatra honors Indra- the King of Heaven and the God of Rain.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

(c) Hanuman Dhoka:
This falls to be the historic seat of the past royalty, particularly belonging to the Malla dynasty. The Durbar Square, which is itself the old Royal Palace Complex dedicated to the Malla monarchs, is today classified as a World Heritage Site. The age-old temples and palaces epitomize the religious and cultural life-style of the people. The interesting things to view include Taleju Temple built by late King Mahendra Malla in 1549 A.D., a gigantic stone figure exposing the fearful manifestation of the Black Bhairab which the Hindus regard as the God of Destruction, the tall stone pillar on the plinth-top of which sits late King Pratap Malla his four children at the four small corners, the colossal image of the White Bhairab the lattice of which is removed for a week during the Kumari Yatra festival, the nine-storeyed Basantapur Palace (literally meaning the spring season palace), the Great Bell and the Great Drums. The main golden-gate is guarded by the Monkey-God called Hanuman. He is the king of the Monkeys and faithful servant to Lord Ram Chandra-the Hero of the Epic "Ramayan." Being guarded by a sole protector, the gate itself has come to be known as Hanuman Gate. With a commercial umbrella suspended above his head and wrapped in a scarlet cloak, he squats on a stone plinth to be respected by hundreds of Nepalese Hindus plus Indian Hindus.

(d) Temple of Kumari:
The temple and the holy quadrangle with a Buddhist stupa at the center form the residential quarters of the Chaste Virgin Living Goddess called KUMARI. The traditional building has profusely carved wooden balconies and widow screens. The non-Buddhist ant the non-Hindu visitors may enter the courtyard called the 'bahal' but may not proceed beyond upstairs. The KUMARI acknowledges their greetings from the middle window of the balcony particularly saved for her alone and snapshot is strictly prohibited.

(e) Kastha Mandap:
Located nearby the Temple of Kumari, this is a unique type of wooden temple also known as Maru Satal. It was built in 1596 A.D. by King Laxmi Narsingh Malla. They say the timber used for its relevant construction was sawed out f a single tree. It is also believed that the capital of Kathmandu derived its new name from this very 'Kastha Mandap.' Today it housed the Hindu God namely Gorakh-Nath.

(f) National Museum:
Situated two and a half kilometers west of Kathmandu City, the National Museum has a splendid collection of arms, artifacts, statues, etc. from ancient, medieval and modern Nepal. Its archaeological and historical displays are real worth-seeing. Unfortunately the museum remains closed on Tuesdays.

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(g) Singha Durbar:
Literally meaning Lion Palace, it is a grand imposing palace built on the neo-classical style surrounded by a colossal compound. It was built by His Excellency Maharaja Chandra Shamsher S.J.B. Rana- the 5th Rana Prime Minister. It once stood as the private residence of the Rana Premiers till 1950 but now remains the Secretariat Building of His majesty's Government. The Parliament (including the Upper House and the Lower House), the Radio Station, the Television Station, etc. are all located in the very premises.

(h) Martyr's Memorial:
This is located on the way to Singha Durbar. The memorial arch contains the effigies of four political leaders who were mercilessly martyred in 1940. Two were hung and two were shot. They include Dharma Bhakta Mathema, Shukra Raj Joshy, Dashrath Chand and Ganga Lal Shrestha. The fatherly statue of late King Tribhuwan Bir Bikram Shah Deb appears high in the middle. Late King Tribhuwan is solely held responsible to lead the Historical revolution of 1950- 51 for laying the foundation of today's democratic system, virtually replacing the cruel family autocracy of the Ranas.

(i) Bhimsen Tower:
Also known as Dharahara to the local people, it is a 165 feet tall tower built by Premier Bhimsen Thapa in 1932. One fetches a panoramic view of the whole valley of Kathmandu from the top of the tower. However it is not open for the general public today as the structure is getting old and in he weakening stage.

(j) Narayanhiti Royal Palace:
This is the current Royal Palace where the Himalayan Monarch of the Shah dynasty resides. It is built on a site of a much older one and owns a colossal compound. During the reign of late King Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev, the father of the present king, the main gat was facing west. Today the main gate eventually faces south. His Majesty the late king Birendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev coroneted in 1975 is fifty and Her Majesty the late Queen Aishwarya Rajya Laxmi Devi Shah is forty -six. They had three children --------two sons and one daughter. Thus the royal family contains five sovereign members in all. Special permission has to be gotten to enter the palace premises on days of privilege.

(k) Pashupati Nath Temple:
It is pagoda style Hindu temple with gilt roofing and richly carved silver doors dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated at the bank of the holy Bagmati River. One of the most sacred temples in the entire Hindu world, Pashupati Nath Temple is the nerve center of pilgrimage on the day of shibaratri. The minute religious town itself which houses the great temple is known as Debpatan and is situated 5 kilometers east of the capital city. Only Hindus are permitted to enter the main courtyard of the temple. Alien tourists can view the temple from the eastern side of the Bagmati River.

(I) Guheshwori Temple:
On a forested knoll, further behind Pashupati Temple to the eastern direction and also by the side of the bending or winding Bagmati River appears the gracious temple of Guheshwori sometimes known as Nairatma Yogini or Aksah Yogini. It is another famous spot of Hindu pilgrimage. It houses the shrine of Goddess Parbati who is lord Shiba's spouse. In this case, also, only Hindus are authorized to enter the premises.

(m) Swoyambhu Shrine:
This is believed to be 25 centuries old and stands as one of the world's oldest Buddhist Chaityas. The Great Stupa of Swyambhu is the wonder that was Nepal, the glory that was Nepal. It is indeed listed a World Heritage for Site to prove that it serves as the nerve center of faithful worship for all the devout philosophy of Bajrayan in particular and honors Lord Adi Buddha. It is dedicated to the self - originating flame God. The stupa, which forms the salient structure, is well composed of a solid hemisphere of terra - cotta bricks and soil supporting a cornice of copper and gilt. Painted on the four -sided based by of the spiral are the all seeing eyes of lord Buddha, keeping an eternal watch on the Valley distinguishing between vice and virtue. It is some two miles west of Kathmandu City proper across the holy Bishnumati River. Situated on the top of a hillock, it is about 500 feet above the level of the Valley. The whole hill is a mosaic of small Chaityas and pagoda temples possessing great five Mahayan (Lamaism) and one Hinyan (Therbadist). On the hind hill is located another important Buddhist shrine; it is called Manjushree. This Chinese Buddha is the God of Knowledge.

(n)Kimdol Monastery:
Situated within Ward No. 15 of Kathmandu City adjacent to Swayamvu Hill is another famous Buddhist monastery called Kimdol. It is a small town itself full of Buddhist citizens. Kimdol resumes a hillock atop which sits a Buddhist embracing the two major aspects of Buddhism including Mahayan (Lamaism) and Hinyan (Therbad). Apart form that we find numerous stupas, chaityas and chhortens scattered around. Prayer-flags with printed Tibetan characters and holy diagrams flutter many terraces and rooftops. Kimdol bahal is believed to be the location whence the Hinyan (Therbad) from of Buddhism highly developed. Today only nunnery of the saffron robe is practiced here; monk hood has eventually shifted elsewhere. The bahal restricts the consumption of liquors of any kind (strong or mild), tobacco, meat, fish, egg and even garlic for all visiting the monastery. The spectacular view of old Kathmandu, i.e. Kantipur, can be clearly fetched form Kimdol height.

(o) Bouddha Nath Stupa:
This is declared to stand as the largest Buddhist shrine of South Asia. The ancient colossal chhorten was built in the 6th century A.D. by King Man Deb. It rests on a series of three terraces and from the bird's eye view it takes the relevant shape or of a lotus flower which indeed remains a very holy object for all the devout Buddhists of the world . The chhorten is surrounded by a circular market, which forms a part of Tibet town. In this case, also the four pairs of the Buddha's eyes give a vivid flash to the four cardinal directions, meaning to keep a diligent watch over the people and their commitments all day all night. The chhorten embraces the authentic philosophy of Mahayan the faith of which is known as Lamaism in Sikkim, Ladakh, Bhutan and Tibet.

(p) Budhanilkantha:
Situated in the northern suburbs of the Valley just at the foot of Mt. Shibapur, this is an enchanting Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Bishnu Narayan. So the locality is also known as Narayanthan. He lies in a bed of serpents amidst the pious pool and seems to float on water. The surrounding pond actually represents the sea. The reclining statue was built in the 5th century A.D.The season of religious celebration here takes place right after the festival of Tihar. Although it is a renowned spot of worship, the reigning king of Nepal (may it be contemporary or any Hindu monarch) may not visit this place for reasons particularly unknown. Thus to please the king a replica of it has been built elsewhere if he wishes to visit it much.

(q)Balaju Water Garden:
This is an interesting large compound sitting at the foot of Mount Nagarjun in the northeast corner of the Valley. Its premises include numerous worthy items. The important ones are the Twenty-Two Water Spouts, the replica image of Lord Buddhanilkantha, the Olympic size swimming pool, etc. Among all the attractions, the major one stands as the Twenty-Two Water Spouts and the whole compound uphill and downhill itself makes an enchanting picnic-spot for holiday-makers. It is here that the stone statue of Lord Bishnu Narayan, an imitation of the genuine previous one at Buddhanilkantha, exists in order for the Nepalese monarch to pay decent homage. The annual festival is celebrated on a full-moon day of the spring season. It is a merry day when many Nepalese Buddhists and Tibetan Buddhists hike up to the summit of Jamacho the starting point being Balaju or Lhuti. A jeepable road does lead to the top of Mount Nagarjun. This precise full-moon is known as 'Lhuti Punhi."

(r) Sundarijal:
At the northeastern edge of the Valley, the cool streams the eventually join the holy Bagmati River flow over the waterfalls at Sundarijal into a hundred year -old reservoir. This titanic reservoir was built during the time of the Ranas. Sundarijal is fifteen kilometers away form Kathmandu City and is also the starting point for the popular trek to Helambu- the nearest Sherpa village. The main reservoir which supplies drinking water to the valley is roughly and hour walk uphill form here. A tinier trail forks off before the reservoir to a small rock cave, where a thirteenth century image of Mahadevi (the great Goddess) can be found. It is a pleasant bike ride along the quite roads past Gokarna. The long valley-rim walk, a minor trek that is, from Sundarijal to Nagarkot or vice-versa is suggestive to every enthusiastic trekker.

(s) Sankhu:
This is a peaceful small town the old name of which goes Shankharpur according to classical Sanskrit. The current name as referred by the local citizens goes Sakwo as well. It is situated at the northeastern corner of the valley and served to bet the exit point to Lhasa of Tibet in the earlier days. This trekking route was much used by the lucrative merchants of Nepal called the Lhasa-Newa. The whole town takes the shape of a 'Shankha', which signifies the conch-shell. This falls to be the sheer reason why it has come to be titled Shankharapur and inhabited by the bonafide indigenous natives of Newars who speak a special tonal dialect Tibeto-Burmese in nature. Adjacent to the town is located the famous Buddhist temple dedicated to Goddess Khadga Yogini up the hillock. Lovely chlorophyll fields and forestations surround the area.

(t) Furping:
This is a popular village amidst a lovely setting by the hillside. It is situated at the south-west corner of the Valley. Inhabited mostly by the Newars and the Tamangs both of whom are Buddhists by faith, the village is dotted with numerous Mahayan (Lamaism) monasteries. Another important sight is the Buddhist temple of Bajra-Yogini pertaining to the authentic philosophy of Bajrayan. A cave temple also bears an interesting tale of its own. There are healthy sectors abound with pine woods apart form the local bazaar. The Newars call this settlement Fumpi. The green premises of the one and only famous boarding high school established din 1952 assumes the name of 'paradise Garden'.

(u) Dakshinkali:
Kali is a bloodthirsty Hindu Goddess. This particular temple lies in the southernmost suburbs of the Valley, beyond Furping downward in a solitary ravine. So she is termed 'Dakshin Kali' meaning South Kali. The important days for religious pilgrimage include Tuesdays and Saturdays. A ritual worship attached by animal sacrifice would not be an uncommon scene here the practice of which is totally against Buddhism in the birth land of Lord Buddha. The poor victims include the fowls, birds and sheep in general.



PATAN (Lalitpur)                                                                                              Top

The ancient city is located on the southern bank of the holy Bagmati River and is approximately five kilometers southeast of the capital. The whole city is full of Buddhist monuments and Hindu temples with fine bronze gateways, marvelous statues, guardian deities and magnificent carvings including stone carving, metal carving and woodcarving. Well noted for its gorgeous crafts men and metalworkers, it is often known as the city of superb artists. The majority of the citizens follow the Buddhist faith.

(a) Patan Durbar Square:
This is the Royal Palace Complex built during the Malla period and stood as the capital part till the 17th century. Situated in the heart of the city, it constitutes the salient focus of an alien visitor's attraction. The square is built of ancient palaces, temples, shrines and statues noted for their exquisite carvings. We owe all these grandeurs to the sovereign Malla dynasty. The last of the Malla dynasty was late king Tej Narsigh Malla. There include three main courtyards, the first being the Keshab Narayan Chowk which we have gotten to enter though the Golden Gate and under the Golden Window; the second being the Taleju Bhawani Chowk; and the third being the Sundari Chowk carrying the Royal Bath. The single stone pillar on which sits late King Yog Narendra Malla facing the Taleju Bhawani Temple to the cardinal direction of east and the Titanic Bell to its right are also worth mentioning. The Patan Durbar Square too forms a World Heritage Site.

(b) Krishna Temple:
Built in the 16th century by late King Siddhi Narsingh Malla, this temple is made of pure stone. It is a marvelous structure constructed completely out of stone, except for the few pinnacles or the spires adjusted out of metal. The carvings on its friezes depict battle scenes from the ancient Hindu epics of South Asia, the Ramayan and the Maha-Bharaat in particular. Opposite remains the single stone pillar with a Garud sitting on, paying decent homage to Lord Krishna.

(c) Kumbheshwor:
This Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiba was built during the peaceful reign of late King Jayasthiti Malla. The particular deity it houses is Kumbheshwor Mahadeb and the five-storeyed pagoda temple was constructed in sheer competition with the five-storeyed pagoda temple of Bhaktapur. Later in 1932, a golden finial was supplemented.

(d) Karunamaya Temple:
This is a Buddhist pagoda solely dedicated to Lord Abalokiteshwor. Built in 1408, it is located in a large quadrangle called Tah Bahal. Also referred to as Red Karunamaya, the idol remains housed here for 12forthnights and is highly worshipped by Tibetan, Sikkimese, Bhutanese and Ladakhan Buddhist as well.

(f) The Ashokan Stupas:
There exist four ancient Buddhist stupas popularly believed to have been built in 250 B.C. by Emperor Ashok. The great Hindu emperor of north India later happened to take refuge in the Buddha and embrace the Dharma. The neat grassy stupas expose their beauty at each of the four corners of Patan. They give evidence to the chairya's ancient religious importance and proudly support the sound proof of Ashok's unanimous visit to the Himalayan Kingdom.

(g) The National Zoo:
The only public zoo the Valley lies in the premises of Jawalakhel. A wide colossal compound with a botable pond in the idle, it contains numerous animals, birds and reptiles mostly representing the Himalayan alpine fauna and makes an enchanting area for zoological study-men and liberal holiday-makers. One the day of Bhoto-Jatra, it is a great picnic spot.

(h) The Tibetan Center:
This is a busy Tibetan settlement with a Mahayan Buddhist monastery. Running a woolen carpet industry is today a big responsible job of the Tibetan society. "Jawalakhel Handicraft Center Pvt. Ltd." is a typical pioneer Tibetan carpet manufacture the factory of which stands the biggest in Lalitpur district. It is an extremely interesting place where one can keenly observe the technical process of spinning, dyeing and weaving of Shangrila rugs performed by perfect Tibetan hands. This center has a well-stocked show-room -plus sales-room from which purchases can be swiftly freighted to any destination of the world. Apart from these, the town is abound of several other public shops carrying Tibetan curios, garments, novelties, jewelleries, etc.

(i) Godawari:
Literally it is a vernacular translation of a special flower. Godawari is a big village setting of extreme natural beauty and is situated 10 kilometers south-east of Patan perched at the foot of Mt. Fulchowki which holds a relevant altitude of 9,050 feet above the sea-level. It is in fact the highest mountain of various kinds and colors from snow-white to dark-red grow wild on the slopes. It also has rich forestations abound with different varieties of flora and birds. A center of numerous orchid species, it makes an ideal spot for the outdoor party and picnickers. The British Botanical Garden, the American Fish Farm and the Catholic Mission School form the important sites here. Just above ST. Xavier remains the marble quarry discovered a long period back. Apart from these, the two renowned Hindu temples of Godawari-Kunda (also known as Panch-Dhara) and Nou-Dhara, and a new Buddhist monastery are worth visiting. Historical Godawari-Kunda celebrates a special twelve-year festival. It is a ritual worship committed with zeal and enthusiasm in the monsoon season.

(j) Bajra-Barahi:
This is a famous Hindu temple of Lalitpur district, Situated in the middle of a peaceful woodland park, it is roughly 5 kilometers south of a Patan nearby the Newar village of Chapagaon. Ritual worship followed by liberal picnic is a frequent phenomenon every Saturday. A trekking visit to Tika Bhairab and Lele (both lying in the southern suburbs of the Valley) from here is worth while.


BHAKTAPUR (Bahdgaon)                                                                             Top

Bhadgaon, also known as Bhaktapur, stood the capital of Nepal Valley once during the olden days. And today it is a treasure home of medieval arts and architectures. According to a legend this city was founded in 889 A.D. by late King Anand Deb who belonged to the famous Lichhibi dynasty. The whole city takes the shape of a 'Khat-Kon" or David's Star. Bhaktapur signifies the "City of Devotees", with the sole majority of Hindus. The urban sector covers an area of 4 square miles. Pottery plus weaving form its traditional industries. They make the best yogurt of the kingdom; so it is known as 'juju dhou' or 'king curd.' Nowdays numerous cottage factories produce masks and wooden handicrafts as well. Bhaktapur is 13 kilometers direct east of Kathmandu and is accessible by public taxi vehicles including the bus, mini-bus, trolley-bus, cab and auto-rickshaw.

(a) Bhaktapur Durbar Square:
The main square of the city which used to be the capital part of old Bhadgon kingdom contains numerous temples and monuments of wonderful nature. The first striking city mark would be the 55 Window Palace built by late King Bhupatindra Malla with which the three remaining kingdoms of Kantipur, Lalitpur and Kirtipur envied a lot. This jea lousy often lead to some political strife as well. During the Malla era Bhakatapur and Lalitpur particularly appeared as tough competitors. The 55 Window Palace is a unique type of structure, so it is the only kind in all modern Nepal without a single imitation or duplication or replica remaining elsewhere. The first ten windows decently face west, thirty-five faces south and the remaining ten faces east. The Golden Gate, the Titanic Bell, the stone Pillar of late Bhupatindra Malla and the Chayslin Mandap (Octoganal Pagoda) look gorgeous. The National Art Gallery although closed on Tuesday expose a large and detailed collection of marvelous stone-crafts and scroll-paintings. Entering through the Golden Gate and behind the 55 Window Palaces, we come across Taleju Bhawani Temple and the Royal Bath. Very obviously every city has a Taleju Bhawani Temple, as she is believed to be the Protectoress of the city by the orthodox Hindus. The Royal Bath yet looks glamorous with the image of the Serpent God in the middle of the sanatorium although the water-spout has completely dried up. Late King Ranjit Malla was the last of the Malla dynasty to take a holy bath. The 17th century also saw the downfall of the Malla monarchy. The Durbar Square is indeed a World Heritage Site.
Adjacent to the Durbar Square is a famous market plaza called Toumadhi Square. This is a bag junction where the chariot festival starts during the religious season. It is here that the striking landmark of the country stands tall and majestic. The Nyata- Poul Temple facing the cardinal direction of south is a Hindu pagoda, dedicated to Goddess Siddhi Luxmi. Built by late Bhupatindra Malla it is not only the tallest temple of the city, of the district, of the valley but of the entire nation. It is about 190 feet above the city's ground level. According to the local language, "Nyata- Poul" signifies five - roofed. You can't miss this from your aircraft window. Constructed out of pure terra-cota bricks and super- fine wood materials, it owns a strong foundation. A dreadful earthquake shook in Nepal in 1934. All the surrounding houses and minor shrines collapsed while this remained intact. To the right the Bhairab Temple looks magnificent. It faces the cardinal direction of west and is a center for animal sacrifice.

(b) Datta- Traya Square
Further to the north-east of Toumadhi Square is another interesting locality called Datta-Traya Square. In fact this is the second important urban spot of Bhaktapur. The Datta-Traya Temple also built by late Bhupatindra Malla in the 17th century is a famous pagoda carrying and amusing history. This is a wooden temple facing west; it is believed that the timber used for its relevant construction was sawed out of a single tree. So you can imagine how big the tree must have been. There are a couple of handicraft quarters around where watching the skills of the carvers is a sheer joy. The Pujari-Math Temple has the renowned Peacock Window in the landside facing the cardinal direction of east. It is indeed a pure wooden structure. Apart from these, there exist two special museums-the Metal Craft Museum and the Wood Craft Museum.

(c) Surya Vinayak:
This is a Hindu shrine of Lord Ganesh, the elephant-headed God and son of Lord Shiba-the Destructor. Binayak in classical Sanskrit would signify Ganesh (Deity of Luck) and this particular one is the Sun Binayak amongst the several Binayaks of the Valley scattered at different corners. Situated in a beautiful surrounding of different corners. Situated in a beautiful surrounding of Bhadgaon and placed in a sylvan setting it is meant to catch the first rays of the rising sun. The delightful view of Bhadgaon to the north can be distinctly observed from here.

(d) Changunarayan:
This is the oldest Hindu temple of the Valley built atop a hill village called Changu. Dedicated to Lord Champak Narayan, it is declared to have been built by late King Hari Barma in 323 A.D. who also virtually belonged to the Lichhbi dynasty. The two-roofed pagoda temple is richly decorated with sculptures and carvings. To the ethnic Newars it is known as 'Sako Changu.'

BEYOND THE VALLEY                                                                                   Top

There are many panoramic and interesting places to pay decent visits outside the Kathmandu Valley. Most of them can easily be reached from Kathmandu by surface-route or air-route. Others we are afraid you must follow up the trek-route which is often lead through sloppy rough trails.

(a) Kakani:
Situated at an elevation of 6,500 feet above the sea-level and 25 kilometers away from Kathmandu city is hilly Kakani famous for plenty of terraced fields. Short treks are made possible. The fabulous holidays are of Kakani features enchanting attractions ranging from the beautiful alpine scenery to the magnificent Himalayan panorama, especially of the Ganesh Himal.

(b) Nagarkot:
This is a lovely hill station lying at an elevation of 7,133 feet above the sea - level and is not more than 32 kilometer direct east of Kathmandu City. It is a year round holiday resort rich in chlorophyll forestations. As an evergreen area, the pines appear belonging to the eastern Himalayans including Mt. Sagarmatha (Everest) can be viewed from here weather permitting. The resort stand best at sun - rise plus sun - set.
(c) Dhulikhel:
This is an ancient hill town which is known as 'Dhoukhyo' to the indigenous Newars. It is situated 30 kilometers east of Kathmandu City on the side of Arniko Highway leading to Tibetan border. From here, one can own a complete panoramic view of the snowy flanks ranging from east to west.

(d) Panouti:
Standing in a peaceful valley roughly six kilometers south of Banepa, the small beautiful town of Panouti is at a junction of the rivers Roshi and Pungmati. Similar to that of Ilahabad in India, a third 'invisible' river is declared to join the other tow at the confluence point. This town is relatively untouched but where festivals preserving the precious tradition of the indigenous Newars are held. It possesses a number of interesting temples, one of which perhaps be the oldest in Nepal. Besides, it is famous for magnificent wood-carvings. Panouti once stood at the junction of important trading routes and had a royal place in its principal square, Today it's just a quiet backwater, yet all the more interesting for that.
Concerning trek and interesting walk leads from Dhulikhel to Panouti. The pleasant two-hour stroll starts off south from Dhulikhel, then turns west crossing rice-fields and running along the course of a tiny stream. It eventually hits the Banepa-Panouti road a little north of the town.
From Panouti you can catch a van to Banepa and from there back to Dhulikhel east or to Kathmandu west. Alternatively, you can keep on striding west to lovely Godawari in the southeast of Kathmandu Valley. There are in fact several routes, which reach you to Godawari. One runs west through Bhaleshwor and along the Roshi River Valley consuming about six hours direct to Godawari. Another route runs south-west and hikes up the rear of Fulchowki, then taking the path down from Fulchowki summit to Godawari. A third route proceeds further south through Kalar but also scales the back of Fulchowki before holding the road down to Godawari. Either route via Fulchowki summit entails a long day's walk from Panouti.

(e) Namo Buddha:
Situated on a hill just above Panaouti valley is an authentic Buddhist shrine which the indigenous Newars call "Namra Bhagwan." The name of the religious hamlet itself is also Namra. It requires an easy cruise by automobile or a good trek to get here. Lord Buddha is auspiciously commemorated here by an ancient stone slab and a Stupa (Chaitya to the Nepalese Buddhists and Chhorten to the Tibetan Buddhists) with the all-seeing eyes of the Enlightened One. The pious forestation is believed to be the exact location where late King Mahasatwa (one of the past Buddha incarnations) sacrificed his own flesh for the sake of a dying tigress and her hungry cubs. The Stupa is highly worshipped by Nepalese Buddhists and Tibetan Buddhists. This serene wood proves to be an ideal spot for sentimental meditation.

(f) Lumbini:
Lumbini is the sound birthplace of Lord Gautam Buddha-the apostle of compassion and non-violence. He is not only the Light of Asia but the Messenger of Universal Peace as well. The auspicious garden of Lumbini is situated amidst the newly established town of Siddharthanagar in the hot Terai plains of west Nepal. The broken Ashokan pillar, holy remnants of an old Buddhist monastery, divine images of The Buddha's mother Great Maya Debi, etc. are still well preserved here. Extensive excavation task is being carried out with promising effects. It is accessible by air from the capital city to Bhairawa whence you can continue proceeding by a motorcar.

(g) Gorkha:
Situated on a western hill overlooking the snow-clad peaks belonging to the Great Himalayan Range, Gorkha was the former capital of the ununited west Nepal before or till the 17th century. It houses two attractive Hindu temples of Lord Gorakhnath and Goddess Kali. It is the birthplace of late King Prithibi Narayan Shah-the sole Propounder of Modern Nepal. It is to be well acknowledged that late King Prithbi Narayan Shah was the last monarch of Gorkha and the first monarch of new Nepal. An optional tour to Mankamana consuming in fact a trek of 4 hours is suggested because it turns out to be very interesting and enjoyable. The world famous Gorkha mercenaries hail from this district pertaining to Gandaki Zone of Mid- Western Region.

(h) Pokhara Valley:
The Pokhara Valley stands one of the most picturesque sites of Nepal. Some believe it to be the Nepalese Paradise in the ecological sense. The perpetual beauty of the valley is enhanced by its three renowned lakes including Fewa, Begnas and Rupa, which own their natural resource in the glacial sector of the Annapurna Range of the Supreme Himalayas. The Annapurna Range is virtually the abode of five major peaks, namely Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV and Annapurna South. The scenic beauty of the tall deep waterfall also makes our trip more enchanting. The striking landmark is none other than Mt. Machhapuchhre (the metaphorical useage of Fish-Tail) though located at a far distance direct to the magnetic north. Pokhara is situated a little over 200 kilometers west of the capital city and is connected by air as well as by surface route.

(i) Tansen:                                                                               Top

Tansen is a lovely hill-station where the panoramic summits of the snow-capped alpines can be well viewed from. It is just off the Siddhartha Highway, between Pokhara and Bhairawa/Sunouli. Historically it has enjoyed a strategic position on the trade plus pilgrim route between the northern hills and the southern plains.
The to the unification of Nepal under the Shahs, it was the capital of the Palpa Kingdom which was then contemporarily ruled by the Sen Dynasty. Prithvi Narayan Shah, the Gorkha Monarch who established Modern Nepal, was the offspring to and arranged between the Shaha and Sen Families.
For numerous years, Palpa fought in alliance with Gorkha and together the two states defeated the independent kingdoms of western Nepal. Finally, in 1860, the last king of Palpa, Prithvipal Sen, was trickingly lured to Kathmandu and beheaded. Palpa was able to be annexed but Tansen remained the focal point of administration for the region. A good number of its subsequent governors were high-ranking members of the ruling Shaha and later Rana families who were exiled from Kathmandu for plotting a grave conspiracy against the king of the day.
Tansen still appears the administrative center for a large region, yet it sees a few visitors every year. As it is increasingly sidelined by the radical development on the Terai and at Pokhara, it is gently falling apart. The town sprawls over a steep ridge and quite a few of the main roads are too steep for automobiles, which does help to keep some of the less merry aspects of the twentieth century at bay. In the older sections of the town, attract Newari buildings line cobbled streets that are the sheer reminiscent of parts of Kathmandu City.
Most of the surrounding countryside is dominated by Magers--a Mongoloid tribe of Buddhists but there also exit a few Brahmans and Chhetris. Newars (Buddhists and Hindus alike) form the majority in Tansen itself. They eventually migrated from the Kathmandu Valley to fetch and advantage of the new opportunities for commerce between the hills and the plains of Hindustan that opened up in the nineteenth century. Traditional crafts and agricultural surpluses were traded for the products of the British Industrial Revolution, particularly cotton fabrics, that were flooding into India from England through India Co. Tansen is still renowned for metal ware and 'dhaka', the woven material that is made into 'topis' -the Nepalese cultural hats.
There are great scenes over the bowl-shaped Madi Valley from the town itself. The best comfortable place for getting a spectacular view of the Himalayan Ranges is the nearby hill of Shreenagar Danda. Pine forestations abounded the area. There are some interesting walks in the adjacent countryside, including a two-hour trek to the banks of the Black Gandaki River and the vast, abandoned Ranighat Palace. Tansen is indeed a pleasant location to break the journey between Pokhara (three and a half hour) and Bhairawa (two hour).

(j) Hile:
This is a lovely spot situated about 4 miles north of Dhankuta Bazaar. The spectacular panorama of the major peaks of the eastern Himalayan Range including Mt. Sagarmatha (Everest), Mt. Makalu, Mt. Lotse Mt. Lotse and Mt. Jannu can be viewed from here.5r and Mt. Jannu can be viewed from here.

(k) Janakpur:
This is a religious city in south Nepal famous as the birthplace of Sita who is the divine consort of Lord Ram Chandra and the unanimous heroine of the great Hindu epic "Ramayan." A marble temple popularly known as Noulakkha Mandir is dedicated to Sita (sometimes Janaki). In ancient days, Janakpur was ruled by late King Janak. Being the daughter of Janak, She has eventually come to be called Janaki-a feminine gender useage of the oriental term. Religious festivals, pilgrimages, comely fairs and other merry festivities are held here especially during two great occasions which include Bibaha Panchami and during Ram Nawami; Janakpur is linked with Kathmandu by air plus road. A 45-kilometer railway brings you to Janakpur from Jayanagar, another town of India nature in the scorching plains of the Terai. This is the only train route existing in all the kingdom of Nepal.

(l) Namche Bazaar:
Namche Bazaar is a small alpine town closely associated with Mt. Sagarmatha (Everest) - the tallest peak on earth. Namche is the salient gateway to the Everest region. Situated on the lap of the Mahalangur Range within the Great Himalayas, it affords a ringside view of the many world famous alpine summits. Namche Bazaar is 240 kilometers northeast of the capital city. It is the sweet home of the legendary Sherpas, the sturdiest of the mountain guides and porters. Late Tenzing Norgay, who triumphantly conquered Mt. Everest on the 29th of May 1953 along with Sir Edmund Hillary, was indigenous Sherpa from this place.

(m) Rapti Valley:
This is a large valley which boasts the Royal Chitwan National Park. The park is believed to be the biggest forest region of Nepal with a wide range of wildlife-the rare one-horned rhinoceros, several species of deer, sloth bear, leopard, wild boar, fresh-water dolphin, crocodile, nearly 350 distinct species of Birds and of course the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. Visitors to the national park may observe the gracious wildlife on elephant-back excursions, nature walks and canoe trips. Three to fur days journeys are recommended for a fuller experience of the wilderness. Guests may also take river raft trips, driving out from the capital city to the Trishuli River of the Seti Khola River (two options at hand) and then spending three successive days journeys are recommended for a fuller experience of the wilderness. Guests may also take river raft trips, driving out from the capital city o the Trishuli River of the Seti Khola River (two options at hand) and then spending three successive days on the river, camping enroute and finally reaching the Chitwan Park on the third evening. The raft events are specially run by registered agencies and give the tourists a unique of the rural life along the country river.                                          Top