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Outside Kathmandu
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Baglung
read moreLocated in the middle hills on the west of Pokhara, Baglung is the headquarters of Dhaulagiri Zone. It is situated on a terrace overlooking the Kali ...
Baglung
Located in the middle hills on the west of Pokhara, Baglung is the headquarters of Dhaulagiri Zone. It is situated on a terrace overlooking the Kali Gandaki river which is famous for deep gorges and notorious bends. It is the trading town of quaint streets and traditional buildings where merchants from the Terai plains in the south and the hills in the north come together to barter. Inhabited by different ethnic groups, Baglung offers the most scenic view of Mount Dhaulagiri towards its north. It has recently been connected to Pokhara by a 72 km black-topped highway. On the way to Baglung, you can enjoy the picturesque view of the incredibly long range of Annapurna Himal towards north. Baglung is also a good starting point for Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve where controlled hunting of some species is allowed. The reserve is famous for the blue sheep. The trek from Baglung Bazaar to Dhorpatan takes about four days.
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Bandipur
read moreBandipur is an ancient trading town of quaint streets and charming atmosphere. It is situated on a ridge top south of Dumre which lies 135 km out on ...
Bandipur
Bandipur is an ancient trading town of quaint streets and charming atmosphere. It is situated on a ridge top south of Dumre which lies 135 km out on the Kathmandu -Pokhara highway. Bandipur can be reached after a two hour climb from Dumre. While the other trading posts of the Nepali hills have modernised, Bandipur retains its age old cultural attributes. It still has its temples, shrines, holy caves and a newari architecture that harks back to the Kathmandu Valley of old.
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Baraha Chhetra
read moreBaraha Chhetra is one of the four greatest Hindu pilgrimages. This is the spot where Baraha, the boar incarnation of Lord Bishnu, protector of the ...
Baraha Chhetra
Baraha Chhetra is one of the four greatest Hindu pilgrimages. This is the spot where Baraha, the boar incarnation of Lord Bishnu, protector of the universe, fought with the demon Hiranakshya and killed him. Apart from the main shrine dedicated to Baraha, there are many other temples that bear the image of Bishnu's boar incarnation.
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Biratnagar
read moreBiratnagar is Nepal's second biggest city. The place is prospering as a magnet for trade and Industry. Streets are lined with array of concrete ...
Biratnagar
Biratnagar is Nepal's second biggest city. The place is prospering as a magnet for trade and Industry. Streets are lined with array of concrete building and border-bazaar shops. That said, the city centre is relatively laid- back and traffic-free. If you are here on a Wednesday don't miss Biratnagar's haat Bazaar, held in a field east of town.
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Birgunj
read moreBirgunj is the busy border town which serves as the main entry point to Nepal for travelers from India. It is a rapidly growing industrial town ...
Birgunj
Birgunj is the busy border town which serves as the main entry point to Nepal for travelers from India. It is a rapidly growing industrial town connected to Bihar's Raxaul. If you are traveling from Calcutta and Patna to Kathmandu, you have to pass through Birgunj. For almost all the travelers, however, it is just a stopping point for over night on the way to Kathmandu or Royal Chitwan National Park.
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Charikot / Jiri
read moreAbout 133 kilometers from Kathmandu, Charikot provides a spectacular mountain view of Gaurishankar. In the eastern upper part of Dolkha township ...
Charikot / Jiri
About 133 kilometers from Kathmandu, Charikot provides a spectacular mountain view of Gaurishankar. In the eastern upper part of Dolkha township there is a famous roofless temple of Dolkha Bhimsen. The highway to Jiri is famous for the environment friendly approach adopted during its design, construction and maintenance. Jirels, one of the unique ethnic groups of Nepal reside here. Jiri, in fact, is one of the major starting points for mountain trek to Mount Everest region.
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Chitwan
read moreSurrounding Royal Chitwan National Park in southern Nepal is one of the best planned and most intelligently developed tourist areas in Nepal. Not ...
Chitwan
Surrounding Royal Chitwan National Park in southern Nepal is one of the best planned and most intelligently developed tourist areas in Nepal. Not only does it offer a wide variety of resorts and lodges, it is also easy to reach - by road or by air. Regular flights are scheduled by Royal Nepal Airlines and other airlines to Meghauli, Simara and Bharatpur. Many resorts provide coach service. Local buses offer a choice between a night ride and a day ride.
Royal Chitwan National Park is perhaps the best park in Nepal for seeing animals in the wild. In the earlier part of the century, when rapid deforestation was devastating Nepal's southern Terai belt, His Majesty's Government of Nepal intervened and proclaimed the Chitwan area a national park.
The Government of Nepal declared the Chitwan region a national park, outlawed settlement and deforestation within its boundaries, and a campaign to save the animals began. Projects carried out with the help of friendly nations have revived the animals that remained. Though the Terai is certainly not what it once was, the preserved portion within the Chitwan National Park is still a treat for animal lovers.
Royal Bengal tigers roam the region; one-horned rhinos can be seen charging through the underbrush, feeding and even courting. The Rapti River has been dammed to form a man-made lake called Lamital where water-birds and marsh mugger peckers and many other birds are found in plenty in these forests.
Elephant grass, five to six feet tall, provides excellent camouflage for animals. This grass serves as food for the gaur (a local bison), rhino and other herbivores. Once a year, local people are allowed into the park area to cut grass. The grass is dried, and used to thatch roofs or stored for food for the domestic animals during the dry season. -
Daman
read moreFor a view of the breathtaking grandeur of the world's highest peaks from the far west of Dhaulagiri to the east of Mt. Everest, there is no better ...
Daman
For a view of the breathtaking grandeur of the world's highest peaks from the far west of Dhaulagiri to the east of Mt. Everest, there is no better place than Daman. It lies eighty kilometers south-west of Kathmandu on the mountain highway known as Tribhuvan Rajpath and has a view tower fitted with a long range telescope.
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Devghat
read moreDevghat is a popular pilgrimage spot situated at the confluence of the Kali Gandaki and Trisuli rivers. It lies just north of the jungle safari ...
Devghat
Devghat is a popular pilgrimage spot situated at the confluence of the Kali Gandaki and Trisuli rivers. It lies just north of the jungle safari destination of Royal Chitwan National Park. During the Makar Sankranti festival in January, Hindu devotees gather here to take holy dips in the river. There are a number of sacred and historical sites around Devghat which provide interesting side trips: the Triveni temple and Balmiki Ashram where the great sage Balmiki had his retreat, the Someswar Kalika temple and fort, Pandavanagar where the protagonists of the Mahabharata once lived and the Kabilaspur fort built by the old kings of Palpa.
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Dhankuta
read moreAlthough Dhankuta is only 75km by excellent road from the Terai, it seems more like a million miles. This hill town is being developed as a regional ...
Dhankuta
Although Dhankuta is only 75km by excellent road from the Terai, it seems more like a million miles. This hill town is being developed as a regional center of eastern Nepal. It is quite a large town with good views, mild climate and plenty of interesting walks in the surrounding areas. The town owes prosperity to the fact that it was a major recruiting center for Gurkha regiments of the British Army. Quite a bit of British aid money has been spent in the viciuity.
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Dharan
read moreDharan lies right at the foot of hills, but the transformation when coming from Terai is dramatic. It is a hill town with hill people. Dharan is also ...
Dharan
Dharan lies right at the foot of hills, but the transformation when coming from Terai is dramatic. It is a hill town with hill people. Dharan is also the gateway to such towns in eastern hills as Dhankuta which are being developed as regional center for the whole area. Until 1989 there used to be a British Gurkha Camp in Dharan which was used to recruit Gurkha soldiers from the eastern hills. Rais and Limbus from eastern Nepal used to constitute the major portion of Gurkha soldiers. Dharan is now a bustling bazaar town that has grown rapidly. Temples of Dhantakali, Buda Subba and Singha Bahini in Dharan are unique and famous,
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Dolpa
read moreDolpa (sometimes written Doplpa) is the most remote and least developed district in Nepal. The western half of the area has been set aside as SHE- ...
Dolpa
Dolpa (sometimes written Doplpa) is the most remote and least developed district in Nepal. The western half of the area has been set aside as SHE- PHOKSUNDO National Park. Although a few anthropologists and geographers had explored the region, the entire district was closed to trekkers until 1989 when the southern part of Dolpa was opened to organized trekking groups. Peter Matthieseu's "The Snow Leopard" and Snellgrove's "Himalayan Pilgrimage" have contributed in revealing the mystery and attraction of Dolpa. Dolpa lies between Dhorpatan and Rara and two of those treks could be combined into a single tour from Pokhara to Jumla. A stunningly blue lake called Phossundo Tal is situated in Dolpa.
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Gorkha
read moreGorkha is a scenic hill- town with great historical significance. King Prithvi Narayan Shah, who unified the Kingdom of Nepal during eighteenth ...
Gorkha
Gorkha is a scenic hill- town with great historical significance. King Prithvi Narayan Shah, who unified the Kingdom of Nepal during eighteenth century, was born in the township of Gorkha. Situated on a small hillock at an attitude of about 1000 m, Gorkha offers panoramic view of snow-fed mountains.
The then small kingdom of Gorkha, founded by king Drabya Shah in 1560 A. D. became famous during the dynasty of Ram Shah (1604-1641 A.D.), who earned the reputation of being just to his people. There was a famous proverb in those days which said that one should go to Gorkha if he were looking for justice.
In the middle of eighteenth century there were hundreds of small kingdoms and principalities in what is today's Nepal. The great Prithvi Narayan Shah took the mammoth task of unifying Nepal in the eighteenth century. The Gorkha soldiers under his dynamic leadership eventually succeeded in conquering the Kathmandu valley. The capital of greater Nepal was shifted to Kathmandu since then. But this beautiful township has always remained as the center of attraction for many Nepalese as well as foreign visitors.
Principal Sights
Gorkha Durbar:
This historical palace is situated on the top of the fortified hill above the township, about one hour's walk uphill from the bus station. On the west side of palace is the temple of Goddess Gorakhkali. There is also a famous cave sheltering the statue of Gorakhnath Baba (sage). It is believed that the name of Gorkha was derived from the name of this sage, whose blessings inspired King Prithvi Narayan Shah for the unification of Nepal. From the top of the hill above Gorkha palace and from a saddle east of the bazaar, the view of Manaslu and Himalchuli is spectacular.
Upallokot:
It is situated at a 20 minute walking distance from Gorkha palace.There is a viewing platform at an altitude of 1520 meters in Upallokot from where the spectacular view of Gorkha palace and the sliver shining snow-fed peaks can be enjoyed.
Manakamana:
On a beautiful ridge south-east of the township of Gorkha lies the holy temple of Manakamana, the holy goddess of aspirations. It is a famous pilgrimage site for Hindus. Manakamana is a four hour walk uphill from Anbu Khaireni on Kathmandu-Pokhara Highway. -
Gosainkunda
read moreOne of Nepal's most famous religious places of pilgrimage is Gosainkunda lake situated at an altitude of about 4360 m. Surrounded by high mountains ...
Gosainkunda
One of Nepal's most famous religious places of pilgrimage is Gosainkunda lake situated at an altitude of about 4360 m. Surrounded by high mountains on the north and east, this lake is grand and picturesque. There are other nine famous lakes such as Saraswati, Bhairab, Sourya and Ganesh Kunda. Every year during Janai Purnima in August, thousands of Hindu pilgrims come here to lake holy bathe in the lake. The large rock in the center of the lake is said to be the remains of a Shiva shrine and it is also claimed that channel carries water from the lake directly to the tank at the Kumbheshwar Temple in Patan, 60 km to the south.
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Helambu
read moreHelambu, situated about 72 kilometers north- east of Kathmandu, is famous for its scenic grandeur and pleasant climate. There are many Buddhist ...
Helambu
Helambu, situated about 72 kilometers north- east of Kathmandu, is famous for its scenic grandeur and pleasant climate. There are many Buddhist monasteries amidst a rich and enchanting landscape. Helambu is great for short treks. Helambu was once considered a hidden, sacred domain and its misty ridges and fertile valleys are still comparatively isolated.The peaks of Langtang Himal are clearly visible from the area.
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Hile
read moreIt is situated about 13 km north of Dhankuta Bazaar. The panorama of the major peaks of eastern Himalaya including Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest), Makalu, ...
Hile
It is situated about 13 km north of Dhankuta Bazaar. The panorama of the major peaks of eastern Himalaya including Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest), Makalu, Lhotse and Kumbhakarna can be enjoyed from Hile.
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Humla / Jumla
read moreJumla, on the banks of the Tila River at 2370 meters, is one of the highest rice growing areas in the world. The entire Tila valley is covered with ...
Humla / Jumla
Jumla, on the banks of the Tila River at 2370 meters, is one of the highest rice growing areas in the world. The entire Tila valley is covered with paddy fields growing a unique red rice that is more tasty than white rice, but is scorned by most local People. The people in this region speak their own version of Nepali. The people throughout the region are Thakuris, and also Chhetris who have the highest social, political and ritual status. Treks to Rara National Park starts and ends at Jumla.
Humla is a high and dry land hemmed by snowcapped peak in three sides that shut out most outside influences, including the monsoon. Trekking facilities are nonexistent , but the local Buddhist highlanders are accommodating to strangers. -
Ilam
read moreIlam is the far eastern district of the country, inhabited by people of different colors living in peace and harmony. Neighboring the famous Indian ...
Ilam
Ilam is the far eastern district of the country, inhabited by people of different colors living in peace and harmony. Neighboring the famous Indian hill town of Darjeeling, it is situated on the foothills of Mount Kanchanjunga, The third highest peak in the world. Ilam is adorned with an almost limitless range of lush-green tea gardens. The rolling hills covered with tea leaves are simply majestic. The thick white fogs alternatively descend to veil the gardens and then suddenly vanish. Greenery prevails all over the hills of Ilam all around the year. Ilam Tea Garden located near Ilam Bazaar and Kanyam Tea Garden located halfway between Terai plain and Ilam Bazaar are the major gardens of Nepal.
Principal Sights
Antu Danda:
Antu Danda, situated at an altitude of 1677m in Ilam District, is famous for its unique views of Everest and Kanchanjunga. It is the best vantage point for viewing sunrise and sunset. There is a motorable road from Ilam to Chhipitar from where one can read Antu Danda on foot. This exhilarating trekking along the lush green hills takes about 3 hours.
Mai Pokhari
Situated at an altitude of 2438 meters, Mai Pokhari is a famous place of pilgrimage in Ilam district. Lying at about thirteen kilometers north of Ilam Bazaar, this beautiful place consists of the pond whose circumference is more than one kilometer. Altogether there are nine ponds in the area some of which are large enough for boats. This place becomes alive every year during 'Harisayam Ekadashi' when a one-night fair is held. This place is a famous picnic spot for nearby people Mai Pokhari can be reached in four hours from Ilam Bazaar in jeep. On the way are the villages of Chureghanti, Bakhaute, Dharapani and Hasbire Bhanjyang, which offer commanding views of the snowy peaks towards north. -
Janakpur
read moreJanakpur is the capital of the ancient state of Mithila. The Janaki Temple, located in the center of the city, is well known in the Hindu Kingdom. ...
Janakpur
Janakpur is the capital of the ancient state of Mithila. The Janaki Temple, located in the center of the city, is well known in the Hindu Kingdom. Sita the wife of the legendary hero Ram was born in Janakpur. Throughout the year, many pilgrims come to pay their respects to Ram and Sita who are the main religious attractions in Janakpur. The city is thronged by worshippers and visitors alike especially during the festival of Bibaha Panchami. This annual festival is celebrated on the occasion of Ram and Sita's marriage and their wedding ceremony is enacted throughout the week.
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Khaptad
read moreKhaptad is situated in the middle hills of the far western part of the country. It is a plateau of grassland and forest at an elevation of about ...
Khaptad
Khaptad is situated in the middle hills of the far western part of the country. It is a plateau of grassland and forest at an elevation of about 3,000 meters. At the north-eastern part of Khaptad there is a small serene lake and swampy area called Khaptad Daha which is a religious site where Hindu pilgrims come to worship Shiva on the full moon of July-August each year. Here used to live the ascetic, the Khaptad Baba, who is known and revered throughout Nepal.
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Kodari
read moreKodari lies on the Nepal-China border. Besides being a place of stunning natural beauty, it has an exotic history going back to ancient times as the ...
Kodari
Kodari lies on the Nepal-China border. Besides being a place of stunning natural beauty, it has an exotic history going back to ancient times as the starting point of the Trans- Himalayan caravan route, the Nepalese equivalent of silk road. Merchants bound for Lhasa would head north from Kodari and cross the Kuti pass before turning east to begin the perilous journey over the Tibetan plateau. This border village is still an important trading center between Tibet and Nepal. The 144 km Arniko Highway connecting Kathmandu with Kodari passes through magnificent river gorges and splendid mountain scenery. Three kilometers short of Kodari is the famous hot water spring called Tatopani, meaning hot water. People come here from all over Nepal to bathe in the hot water for its therapeutic value.
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Lumbini
read moreShakyamuni Buddha was born in Lumbini, in southern Nepal, twenty-five hundred years ago. Since his time, Nepal has been a sacred ground for Buddhists ...
Lumbini
Shakyamuni Buddha was born in Lumbini, in southern Nepal, twenty-five hundred years ago. Since his time, Nepal has been a sacred ground for Buddhists as the birthplace of the Buddha. Lumbini is a small town in the southern Terai plains of Nepal, where the ruins of the old city can still be seen. Shakyamuni Buddha was born to a royal family.
Lumbini has been a holy ground for Buddhists all over the world. The restored garden and surroundings of Lumbini have the remains of many of the ancient stupas and monasteries. A large stone pillar erected by the Indian Emperor Ashoka in 250 BC bears an inscription about the birth of the Buddha.
An important part of Lumbini is the temple of Maya Devi. It has a stone image of Maya Devi giving birth to Lord Buddha as she holds onto a branch. It has been well worn by the strokes of barren women hoping for fertility. To the south of the temple is a pool where Queen Maya Devi is said to have bathed and given her son his first purification bath.
A quiet garden, shaded by the leafy Bo tree (the type of tree under which Buddha received enlightenment), and a newly-planted forest nearby lend an air of tranquillity which bespeaks Buddha's teachings. Lumbini is now being developed under the Master Plan of the Lumbini Development Trust, a non governmental organization dedicated to the restoration of Lumbini and its development as a pilgrimage site. The plan, completed in 1978 by the renowned Japanese architect Kenzo Tange, will transform three square miles of land into a sacred place of gardens, pools, buildings, and groves. The development will include a Monastic Zone, the circular sacred Garden surrounding the Ashoka pillar and Maya Devi temple, and Lumbini Village, where visitors will find lodges, restaurants, a cultural center and tourist facilities.
An important archeological site near Lumbini, Kapilvastu evokes the ancient palace where Lord Buddha spent his formative years. Scattered foundations of the palace are abundant, and archeologists have by now discovered 13 successive layers of human habitation dating back to the eighth century BC. A must for archeological and historical buffs!
Besides its religious and historical significance, Lumbini offers cultural insights into the village life of southern Nepal. If possible, try to coincide your visit with the weekly Monday bazaar when villagers come from miles around to buy grains, spices, pottery, jewellery, saris and various other items. It may appear as a scene out of the Arabian Nights, with colorful merchandise spread out under the mango trees and the air perfumed with incense. It's a chance to bargain for souvenirs while witnessing local life in Lumbini. Wooden ox-carts loaded with hay trundle by. Villagers dry cow-dung for fuel, and tea stalls serve sweet milk tea.
Today, Lumbini is beginning to receive travellers' and archaeologists' attention after centuries of neglect. Serious preservation work has only just been started in the latter half of this century and Lumbini as a slice of history is worth seeing and worth preserving. -
Manang
read moreSituated at the lap of the gigantic Himalaya, Manang is a unique village with a compact collection of 500 flat-roofed houses separated by narrow ...
Manang
Situated at the lap of the gigantic Himalaya, Manang is a unique village with a compact collection of 500 flat-roofed houses separated by narrow alley ways. To reach a doorway you must ascend a steep log notched with steps. The setting of the village is most dramatic, with the summits of Annapurna and Gangapurna less than 8 km away, and a huge ice fall rumbling and crashing on the flanks of the peaks. Gompa at Manang and Braga are well worth visiting.
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Muktinath/Jomsom
read moreThe famous temple of Muktinath lies in the district of Mustang and is situated 48 km north east of Jomsom at an altitude of about 3749 meters. The ...
Muktinath/Jomsom
The famous temple of Muktinath lies in the district of Mustang and is situated 48 km north east of Jomsom at an altitude of about 3749 meters. The temple is situated on a high mountain range and is visited during fair weather. During the festival of Janai Purnima, Hindu devotees gather here to pay homage to lord Muktinath. The visitors get lodging facilities at Dharmasala and Maharani Pouwa. Another famous temple of Jwaladevi, the goddess of flame, is situated about hundred meters south of Muktinath.
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Mustang
read moreJomsom is the district head quarters for the Mustang region of Nepal. To many people, however, Mustang implies the area of Nepal that extends like a ...
Mustang
Jomsom is the district head quarters for the Mustang region of Nepal. To many people, however, Mustang implies the area of Nepal that extends like a thumb into Tibet. This is the region described in Michel Piessel's book "Mustang", and includes the walled capital city of Mustang, to Manang.Since 1991 trekkers have been allowed in limited numbers into the high desert region north of Jomsom that still has its own nominal king.
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Namche Bazaar
read moreThe name of Namche Bazaar is generally associated with that of Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world. It is the entrance to the Everest ...
Namche Bazaar
The name of Namche Bazaar is generally associated with that of Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world. It is the entrance to the Everest region. Situated on the lap of Khumbu Himal range at an altitude of 3440 meters. This place is the home of legendary Sherpas. Namche Bazaar can be used as the starting point for trekking to Thyangboche, Debuche, Periche, Pangboche, Lobuche and Gorakhshep which are famous destinations in the Everest region. Besides, Namche is the gateway to the Sagarmatha National Park.
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Nuwakot
read moreThe old fortress town of Nuwakot used to be an important strategic outpost. It controlled the ancient trade routes to Tibet and the kings of medieval ...
Nuwakot
The old fortress town of Nuwakot used to be an important strategic outpost. It controlled the ancient trade routes to Tibet and the kings of medieval Nepal maintained large garrisons here. Nuwakot possesses a number of artistic buildings on the hill top which recall the traditional architecture of the Kathmandu Valley. It offers terrific views of the mountains and the surrounding rural villages . The palace of Nuwakot was once the palace of the great King Prithvi Narayan Shah, who conquered Nuwakot before conquering the Kathmandu valley.
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Panchamul Sirubari
read morePanchamul Sirubari is the first model village designed to experience village based tourism in Nepal. It is a nature gifted place and one of the ...
Panchamul Sirubari
Panchamul Sirubari is the first model village designed to experience village based tourism in Nepal. It is a nature gifted place and one of the richest Gurung village in terms of culture. Panchamul Sirubari is a unique example of eco-cultural tourism in Nepal and is a new tourism product originated by local people.
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Pokhara
read more“At the lake Fewa falls the reflection of Mount Fishtail; life is like the cold dry sandy banks of Seti without your ...
Pokhara
“At the lake Fewa falls the reflection of Mount Fishtail; life is like the cold dry sandy banks of Seti without your love.”
Facts
Population: 200000
Elevation: 700-1100 meters
Distance from Kathmandu: 200 kms
Major connectivity: Road and Air
Ethnic Composition: Gurungs, Bahuns, Chettris, Dalits, Magars, Newars, Muslim, and ethnic Tibetans
Religion: Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and Christianity
Economy: Tourism, overseas remittances, agriculture, trade and manufacturing
Natural sights: Mountains, lakes, caves, gorges, and canyonsPokhara is one of Nepal’s most idyllic cities. Its natural beauty and charm continues to inspire poets and songwriters for many years now. The mountains, caves, gorges, rivers, and lakes have been poetically linked to wide range of state of human emotions.
In the medieval times Pokhara served as an important transit on the Tibet-Indo trade. Then, caravan of mules ferrying highland salt reached the town of Pokhara on the way to the towns in the Indian plains. Similarly, the traders from South ferried grains and cooking oil destined for the arid highlands. Over time this tradition contributed significantly to the growth of Pokhara.
Prior to the conquest of modern State of Nepal, Kaski, the area surrounding Pokhara valley, was one of the important principalities. Unfortunately, only few archeological remnants of those times have survived unlike the historical structures of the same period in Patan, Kathmandu, and Bhaktapur.
Natural beauty and charm makes up for Pokhara’s lack of sites of historical significance. It is Nepal’s largest city from where three of the over 8000 meters high mountains can be viewed at a close proximity for almost eight months a year. Rising from an elevation of 700-1100 meters the nature gifted caves, lakes, gorges, and canyons fascinates any nature lover.
The people and lifestyle makes Pokhara more incredible. Although home to Gurungs and Magars, two indigenous ethnic peoples with a gallant history, Pokhara’s demographic composition also speaks for its celebrated multiculturalism and diversity; where Dalits and Brahmans, Muslims and Hindus, and ethnic Tibetans and Christians have peacefully existed for over half a century. It is also here that the forces of modern globalization have existed side by side an age old cultural tradition firmly grounded in the medieval past. Only a short hike into the villages reveals the simple lifestyle that has sustained and survived for centuries.
Largely an agrarian one Pokhara’s economy in the recent times has diversified into services, trade and some manufacturing. Tourism and remittances from foreign employment have clearly emerged as lucrative sectors.There are accounts of visits by outsiders to Pokhara as early as the mid 1800s. However, the first meaningful contact with the foreigners began only after the kingdom was officially opened in the fifties. In the early days, westerners primarily volunteered in and around Pokhara working closely with the communities in the areas of health and education. The flower people arrived in the 70s paving the way for modern tourism springing up small lodges and teashops along the south bank of the lake. The modern era of tourism began in the late 80s after the opening of acclaimed trekking routes such as the Annapurna Sanctuary and Annapurna Circuit. Since then, large hotels, restaurants, bars, shops selling trekking gears, books, souvenirs and banks have opened to cater about 200,000 visitors each year.
Things to see
Devi’s fall and Gupteshwor Cave
Devi’s or David’s fall (Patalé Chango in Nepali) is a lovely waterfall in the city’s southern edge. Legends have it that a lady by the name was swept into the waterfall never to be discovered again. In early years since the waterfall began to attract visitors, the nearby area was sparsely populated and much of the waterfall site was unattended. In the recent years, the conservation efforts to protect the waterfall and its premises are underway. The latest facelift around the waterfall is a testimony of ongoing conservation initiative.Although the waterfall is open to visitors throughout the year, the best time to visit is during the monsoon season when the floodgate of the Fewa lake barrage is opened to ease the water level. The rushing flow of water through the narrow moraine canyon into the deep ground hole forms a spectacular site.
The all new look of the waterfall comes with a landscaped garden, a wishing well, and a model Nepali countryside home perched on top of the waterfall for visitors to sit and relax.
Just across the highway from the Devi’s fall is the famous Gupteshwor cave. This underground cavity is quite a fascinating occurrence for its close proximity to the waterfall. What appears to be a narrow entrance to the cave balloons up inside to form a first wide platform housing a temple of lord Shiva. A further down the stairs and through a narrow passage leads to the main cavity with high walls aligned closed to wet stalagmites and stalactites. About 25 meters beyond this point is the main drop zone of the Devi’s waterfall after sinking in the ground. On any given day this underground spectacle is fascinating for it remained profoundly mysterious until it was explored by the locals.Museums in Pokhara
Gurkha Memorial Museum
Open to the general public in July 2005, the Gurkha Memorial is one of Pokhara’s newest museums. A brainchild of and operated by the Gurkha Memorial Trust, the museum is a noble undertaking to conserve and promote the gallant history of the famous Gurkhas. The museum exhibits in display are categorized into a Historical gallery, Gurkha infantry regiment gallery, Gorkhas gallery, and Gurkha specialist/corps unit gallery. There is also a theater room and a library specializing in a rich archive of documentaries, books, and publications relevant to the history of Gurkhas.There are several interesting collections in the museum including a royal truncheon from the early 20th century, traditional Gurkha weaponry, 19th and 20th century British Gurkha army gears and insignias, and pictorial overviews of each Gurkha regiments since the forging of allegiance with Britain in 1815.
The museum is open to visitors from 8am-4:30pm daily. Entry fees are 150 for tourists and 80 for SAARC nationals. The museum also offers guided tours, refreshments, and an all exclusive Gurkha merchandise booth.
International Mountain Museum
Sprawling over 13 acres of idyllic lush green landscape the International Mountain Museum is one of the must see while in Nepal. Established by Nepal Mountaineering Association in early 2004 the museum was conceived with an idea to work towards promoting the understanding of the mountains, its people and culture, flora and fauna, and the proud mountaineering history.
The first section of the museum features the mountain peoples from Nepal and other countries and their lifestyle portrayed through the clothes, crafts, utensils and models. The second section has mountain rocks, geological specimens and old and new posters on display. The last section consists of the display of tools and equipments used by famous mountaineers including Junko Tabei, the first woman to summit Everest.The museum provides free tour guides and documentary shows throughout the day. The Buddhist prayer room inside the main building also features periodic worships by monks, an age old tradition of many ethnic groups of Nepal’s Himalayas.
There is a 31 feet model of Mt. Manaslu and a quad faced climbing wall for outdoor indulgence. The cafe, souvenir shop, and resting sheds overlooking the Annapurna range make IMM one of the most peaceful places in Pokhara. IMM opens daily and occasionally hosts special events.Annapurna Natural History Museum
One of Pokhara’s oldest the Annapurna Natural History Museum inside Prithivi Narayan College is one of many early grassroots initiative to help provide learning opportunities to the students, people of Pokhara and its surrounding areas to learn about nature, flora and fauna, and the world beyond their neighborhood.Established by Dorothy Mierow in 1965, the museum showcases flora and fauna of Nepal, rare samples of “Saligrams” and mineral rocks specimens, butterflies of the Annapurna region, and an impressive collection of stuffed birds from the region including the rare Spiny Babbler.
Monasteries and Temples
The places of worship for both Buddhists and Hindus are of special importance in Pokhara. There are always grand worships or regular rituals taking place round the year. Buddhist monasteries are scattered throughout Pokhara valley and surrounding. The Jangchub Choeling Monastery of the Kagyu tradition lies in Hemja. Nearby at Yamdi lies the Sakya monastery. There is also a community Buddhist Ritual Center under the patronage of Gelug lamas.The temple and shrine of Bindabasini in the Old Bazar enclave is one the most popular temples of Devi, the Hindu goddess. The main temple is situated on a hillock covered by a forest grove and is accessible by a wide hand-cut stone stairs. The most ideal time to visit the temple is during the Hindu festival of Dasain.
Places to eat
Caffé Concerto and Jazz Bar
Since 1997, Caffé Concerto and Jazz bar has established itself as a prominent eatery for Italian cuisine and Jazz music in Pokhara. The restaurant is situated right next to the main gate of Ratna mandir, the summer palace of the former kings of Nepal.Caffé Concerto offers alfresco and indoor dining experience amidst a semi rustic theme in stone, wood, Bhaktapur terracotta, cane and wrought iron. The breezy unwalled seating in the second floor facing the legendary Banyan trees, lake and the palace gate is an ideal place to beat the heat of Pokhara’s warm summer evenings.
Over the past four years Caffé Concerto is gradually reforming to an all Italian specialty restaurant. Indeed the proprietors, Basanta and his wife from Venice put meticulous effort to maintain the food as authentically Italian as possible. The herbs, cheese, pasta, organic vegetables, wines and liquor are either local organic produce or imported. What really puts the restaurant in the culinary map of Pokhara is the rich variety of oven fresh pizzas and home-made Gelato. Indeed, there are over 18 varieties of pizzas to choose from.
The café is a perfect place for an afternoon coffee and soothing sound of Jazz.
Fish Tail
Since 1969 the restaurant at Fish Tail lodge is one of Pokhara’s finest. Ideally situated at the western tip of the peninsula and reached on the hotel’s private floats or boats, the rotunda dining hall offers unmatched view of the lake and mount Fish Tail.
The rotunda indoor air-conditioned dining comfortably seats 90 people. The use of traditional materials including jute, thatch bamboos, and cane combined with hand cut stone floors and wood pillars add to the charm and warmth of the restaurant. During winter, the central fireplace and the sun-kissed lawns upfront the rotunda offer a warm cozy dining experience.The kitchen at Fish Tail specializes in Muglai along with Chinese and Continental delights on both ala carte and buffet basis. The regular three meal daily buffet starts at 7am with breakfast, midday lunch, and ends with the last dinner servings at 9 pm. The restaurant also features sandwiches, snacks and pastries for the afternoon high tea. The last order must be made by 9:30pm. The “fresh grilled fish” is their signature dish. The bar, also nestled inside the rotunda, is a smart and minimally lit with long counter chairs and sleek rosewood counter tops. The succulent Margaritas and hosts of imported liquors and brews form the list of what the bar has to offer.
The lodge also hosts annual gala dinners on Valentine’s Day, Christmas, and New Years. For details on the timings and prices it is advised to contact the lodge.
In a nutshell, the restaurant at Fish Tail offers guests and patrons the charm of dining at a small resort with impeccable hospitality standards. Since 2001, all profits generated by Fish Tail go to “Heart Aid” that provides free cardiac care to the needy Nepalis. This legendary restaurant caters both the house guests and outside patrons. For outside patrons, Fish Tail recommends prior reservation from September till May. Fish Tail accepts all major credit cards.
Moondance Café
One of Pokhara’s long standing café with a jubilant history Moondance is the coolest dining spot in town. Initially started as a thatched joint in the early 90s, the café now seats 120 people in its renovated new setup since 1999.The food at Moondance is mostly an eclectic assortment of North American and Continental with some Indian and East Asian specialties. For late afternoon appetizing or if you are looking for something light try Hummus platter and seasonal smoothies.
The fresh fish dishes and steaks are round the year feature at Moondance. Besides, its acclaimed signature dish, the succulent “lemon grilled chicken” enjoys wider culinary fanfare amongst the expats and returning patrons. These meats go perfectly well with a select collection of French Sauvignon, Australian Shiraz, and varieties of others from Chilean and South African vineyards carefully picked by Moondance for its patrons.From Crepes to pies and cakes, the desserts are a real treat at Moondance. The Lemon Meringue Pie and Macchapuchre kiss are worth a special mention.
Coffee and Wi-Fi internet are two latest additions to Moondance. The coffee is brewed using local organic Arabica beans roasted and ground with extra care to keep intact the aroma and flavor. There is also a pool table and board games.
Koto
Koto is Pokhara’s only specialty Japanese restaurant. Quietly nestled on a rooftop, Koto offers both open air and cozy indoor seating with a Japanese style open kitchen.
Koto opens for lunch and dinner and major credit cards are accepted.Bistro Carolina
Bistro Carolina in central Lakeside is one of Pokhara’s only French specialty restaurants. The restaurant offers a relaxed bistro feel with its simple yet elegant alfresco and indoor dining area. Established during the tourism bubble of late nineties, the restaurant since then enjoys a sustained reputation as being one of Pokhara’s immaculately finest diners.
Bistro’s all European menu draws in exotic ingredients such as Norwegian Salmon, Tiger Shrimps, and organic quail. French Onion soup and corn chips with hot salsa are bistro’s special starters over a few rounds of exquisite cocktails. The popular entrées include “Poulet au Gingembre” ginger chicken with sesame served with rice; “Steak au poivre ou la moutarde”, tenderloin steak with a choice of mustard or pepper sauce. The vegans may choose from Moussaka, a mush of baked aubergine with melted cheese and cream served with pasta salad with fresh pesto dressing. Wine is another delight at the bistro. The menu features a rich variety of French wines both Blanco and Rouge.
The bistro opens for lunch and dinner. VISA and MasterCard are accepted.Things to do in Pokhara
Adventure Golfing
Pokhara is home to two world class 9 hole golf courses. The Himalayan Golf Club and the Yeti Golf Club at Fulbari Resort and Spa are popular for its charm and challenge.Golf was introduced in Pokhara in the mid 90s by a group of retired British Gurkha officers who developed a taste for the sport while serving in the United Kingdom. The Himalayan Golf Club established in 1995 is Nepal’s first entirely private investment led golf course. Similarly, the Yeti Golf Club is also owned and managed by Fulbari Resort. There is also a driving range closely located to the popular lakeside.
The Himalayan golf club is located in the Grand Bijaypur River Canyon. The club house and two greens are perched 250 feet above on top of the canyon, while rest of the course including a fascinating 585 yards island green lies at the bottom. The third hole is played from the top of the canyon to the green 150 feet below. This naturally peculiar course design makes a round of golf at Himalayan one of the most challenging in the country. The club is a host to the annual Surya Nepal Western Open. The club house at Yeti is equipped with a billiard table and offers range of spa services. Golf patrons can also enjoy the services at one of the many restaurants at Fulbari.
Ultra-light flying
Pokhara offers the only ultra-light flying experience in Nepal. Since 1997, Avia Club Nepal, a pioneer in ultra-light air sports and recreation, operates flights out of the Pokhara Regional Airport.From the 15 minutes “Fly for fun” to half an hour “Glory of Mt. Fishtail”, the ultra-light flying is a great way to see the Pokhara valley and its surrounding. The fleet of five Rotax 582 aircrafts rises to an elevation of 5000 meters thus allowing the passengers to get a close glimpse of the majestic Annapurna and Fishtail. The aircrafts are certified for “air worthiness” in compliance with the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal standards and is fully insured. Avia Club is also a member of Fédération Aéronautique Internationale in Geneva.
Ultra-light flying with Avia Club Nepal in Pokhara is widely endorsed and eminent personalities have had the joy of ultralight flying in the past one decade of its operation. Although Pokhara valley offers 10 months of good flying weather condition, September to May are the best in terms of mountain visibility.
The flights run from early morning till late afternoon and the “sunset on Annapurna” is highly recommended by the pilots. Patrons can choose either open or close cabin aircrafts and the mandatory basic safety accessories are included in the fare. Besides, Avia Club also provides in flight photographs and video upon request as well as personally tailored flights.
Avia Club Nepal accepts all standard modes of payment including VISA, MasterCard and Traveler’s Cheque. All tariffs are inclusive of all applicable government taxes.Paragliding
Pokhara is home to Nepal’s paragliding pioneers. First started by an Italian mountaineer while descending down the slope, today, the adventure sport has become a popular activity and a reason to visit Pokhara.The charm of paragliding in Pokhara lies in the unique geography, weather condition, and an unsurpassed intimacy with the birds of prey, the natural thermal guides that have inspired paragliding’s flying principles.
Since 1998, Sunrise Paragliding, the pioneers of the sport in Pokhara, along with two new companies operates tandem flights on a daily basis for about 10 calendar months a year. The take off is from Sarangkot (1500m) and depending on thermal availability rises to an elevation of 1800-3000m. On a clear day three peaks above 8000m can be viewed followed by neatly terraced farms and country life below. The landing just by the lake adds to the thrill of the experience. Paragliding is also a great way to view birds of prey who share the same flying space. The 9 feet wing spanned “Lammergeier” and the Himalayan Griffon Vultures are some rare species that are sighted during the flight.
Paragliding as a sport in Pokhara has maintained a high safety record. The basic safety gears are provided prior to take off for any age group with a normal fitness level. Besides the regular flight types offered by the companies, tailored flights are also arranged with prior consultation.
Pokhara’s paragliders also host the Nepal Open Paragliding Championship in January each year. 2008 marked the ninth successive championship with over 90 athletes from 20 countries vying for the trophy.
Entertainment and Leisure
Live Music
Many of Pokhara’s bars and cafe feature Western style live music. The house bands generally play many of the popular western covers. The focus is not on any particular genre thus no cover charges apply. Live music first began by the lakeside in the mid nineties. Then, bands usually came in from Kathmandu and even far away Darjeeling. Earlier organized initiatives to promote live music in lakeside were the Maha Shivaratri International Music Festival and the Annual Lakeside Street Festival. Although these events have ceased to showcase they played immense role in bringing in international music and artists to Pokhara.
Busy Bee Café features live music every night from 8-11:30pm.Bars and Pubs
The central Lakeside is dotted with bars and pubs selling imported brews and spirits. These open throughout the day but are busy only in the evenings. Many bars have pool tables, dart boards, and show European Football league games. Old Blues and Amsterdam are two old popular places.Cultural shows
Traditional ethnic cultural show is a lively way to spend the evening with friends over sumptuous dinner and drinks. Pokhara valley and the surrounding is a home to some of Nepal’s most hospitable and culturally rich indigenous ethnic people. The Gurungs and Magars are popular for their amicable singing and dancing in their gaudy ethnic attire. Mostly conducted in their own dialects these songs have traditionally been part of the culture and reflect their way of life.Another attraction is “dohori”. This singing bout usually between a group of male and female singers demands high degree of adroit spontaneity in structuring the verses. The singing usually follows a melody that is sustained throughout until one side loses to respond in a meaningful manner. Generally, the tone is high pitched and the mood upbeat. Dohori bars are scattered all over the city.
Hotel Lakeview offers nightly cultural show at its serene tropical garden. Beautifully located at Gaurighat, the eastern stretch of the lake forms an unhindered backdrop for the garden setting that comfortably seat 200 people. The main attraction include, “Ghatu dance”, “Lakhe dance”, “Panché baja” and “Shahanai recitation”. The kitchen at Lakeview specializes in North American style grills although popular Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisine are also served on ala carte basis. The bar is well stocked with most spirits and an amazing collection of French and Italian wines. Lakeview also hosts sumptuous buffet during peak season months, beginning October-April, at its new Balinese pavilion and prior reservation is recommended. The show begins at 6:30pm during winter and 7pm in summer. Lakeview accepts VISA and MasterCard.
Places to shop
Far from the convenience and sleekness of glitzy malls, shopping in Pokhara is an entirely unique indulgence. Pokhara’s three different shopping districts provide unmatched perspective in lifestyle from an almost medieval old bazaar that still enjoys the status of a supply lifeline to many villages and towns, burgeoning modern city center, and a tourist friendly shopping at Lakeside.The Old Bazar
The narrow lane from Bagar to Nalamukh in the old quarter is where trade and commerce flourished first in Pokhara. Until modern urbanization began two decades ago, this formed the central supplies lifeline to many of surrounding villages and faraway towns hitherto untouched by roads and modern means of communication. An eclectic mix of traders including the famed Newars, Thakalis, and Mustangis traded salt, oil, herbs, utensils, wool, rugs, grains, spices, condiments, clothes, and farming tools. In the medieval period, Pokhara also served as a transit in the Indo-Tibet salt trade conduit.Old bazar houses some of Pokhara’s oldest buildings. These buildings are still inhabited and preserved by Newar families and reflect rich architectural aesthetics of the early Pokhara period. Today, many of these old mud brick and tile houses are rapidly being replaced by modern concrete structures. Yet, the charms of the trade practices have successfully survived in the narrow dark compartments of the surviving old buildings. Many shops still sell goods sold as early as a half a century ago. The lifestyle of the old bazaar in itself is a unique sight. One can view Newar sweet makers prepare sun-dried delicacies, traditional ration shops, opulent cloth and craft stores and gaudy jeweler stores.
Other places of attraction in the Old Bazar are the shrine of Bindabasini Mai and the annual Dashain Chyangra Festival.
Things to buy: Local Handicrafts and pots, traditional spices, woolen rugs, bridal gold ornamentsMahendrapul City Center
Since modern urbanization began two decades ago, Mahendrapul and Chipledhunga have enjoyed the status of being Pokhara’s main city center. The expansion of the city center market is a testimony of Pokhara’s evolution from a medieval trading town to a sprawling modern city; a shift from an agricultural subsistent economy to an increasingly consumer one. Today, the city center is dotted with modern department stores and shopping centers selling everything from imported garments to latest mobile phones.The city center is the busiest and often crammed with insurmountable street vendors selling seasonal fruits and vegetables, spices and condiments, inexpensive Chinese garments and pirated DVDs. These operate side by side swanky glazed air-conditioned stores, cyber cafés, and restaurants. The traditional North Indian style large open clothing stores add to the color and vibrancy of the city center.
In the last 5 years, the market has extended southwards from the Chipledhunga roundabout to what is popularly known as Newroad. Over 40 commercial banks and financial institutions dot the either side of this wide street stretch.
Lakeside
The hundreds of shops at either side of the Lakeside street stretch is an excellent place to bargain and shop. Since the first tourist friendly shops sprang up on tiny stalls twenty years ago, shopping here has really come off age. A large majority of shops sell trekking related goods. Others sell books, maps, CDs, Thankas, embroidered clothing, Tibetan antiques, gems and stones, silk, rugs, cameras and films, and anything one can possibly ask for. The traders come from everywhere including Kashmir, Tibet, China, Europe, and Kathmandu. Besides, the lakeside is also dotted with other service providers such as internet shops, travel and trekking agencies, communication centers and ATMs. -
Tansen
read moreIf visitors are wondering which place in this kingdom would give them a taste of everything, we suggest that they give Tansen a try. Tansen is a ...
Tansen
If visitors are wondering which place in this kingdom would give them a taste of everything, we suggest that they give Tansen a try. Tansen is a small town of approximately twenty thousand people. It is on the way from Pokhara to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, and it is not too far from the Royal Chitwan National Park. Located 4,300 meters above sea level, on the south flank of Srinagar Hill, the greatest attractions of this town are its ancient culture, friendly people, excellent mountain views, and, above all, its serene atmosphere. The weather remains moderate throughout the year, and it is a pleasant place to visit in any season.
The town's mostly Newar and Magar inhabitants have long been known as staunch warriors. The kings of Tansen wielded great power over western Nepal in the fifteenth century. Palpa, their kingdom was the last to be defeated by the conquering Gurkhas who unified today's Nepal. These people became even more famous in the Anglo-Nepal war of the early 1800s. Col. Ujir Singh Thapa who commanded the army in the region was in an extremely trying situation at the time. His men were outnumbered four to one by the English forces. He desperately asked for divine help before going into battle, promising a temple in the name of Goddess Bhagwati (who is ferocious and loves blood sacrifices) if she would help him. He won. In 1815, he kept his word and built a temple to the goddess. However, fighting is not the only forte of Tansen residents.
The jamre folk song performance of the Magars are colorful. Dancing and feasting are accompanied by drumbeats of the madal during festivals. Amar Singh Thapa, another great champion of the Anglo-Nepal war, had great affinity for Tansen as well. He brought highly skilled artisans from Kathmandu Valley to build the Amar Narayan temple when he was the governor of the town. The temple's woodcarvings are remarkable and puja is offered here everyday to Lord Bishnu.
During the time of the Rana prime Ministers, from 1846 to 1951, Tansen became an important outpost. Those who offended the administration or were political prisoners were sent away from the Kathmandu Valley beyond Tansen. It was thought that they would not be able to cause problems to the rulers from their faraway exiles. Later the Ranas tried to develop Tansen into a hill-station and built palaces and mansions for personal use. One such palace in the heart of the town has a huge door called the Baggi Dhoka. Some say that it was built so that Khadga Shumsher Rana would not need to get off' his elephant while entering the palace. Others claim that it was built so that horse drawn chariots could easily enter the palace grounds. The town's intricately patterned dhaka is the most popular handwoven cloth of Nepal. Newar women of the Kathmandu Valley have preferred its shawls for many decades. Nepal's national cap, the topi, is also made of dhaka. Dhaka is available to buyers at the town's bazaars. Those interested may also see weavers at work on their looms.
There are potters and metal workers in Tansen too. Earthen pottery is still used in many houses of Tansen. Jugs, basins, and even filters are made from clay for local use. Chang, the local liquor, is wonderfully cool if it has been stored in earthen-ware. Metal workers make deep plates, karuwa water jugs, utensils for worship and hookahs for smoking.
Tansen is charming because it is unspoiled by modernity, pollution and urban bustle. On clear days, mountain views from the town reveal Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Manaslu, Gauri Shankar and other peaks and a walk up to Srinagar Hill provides an even more thrilling Himalayan panorama.
