Major
Tourist attractions:
Few destinations in the world can Match Nepal in the variety
of adventure tourism: be it mountaineering, trekking, mountain
biking, nature tours, culture tours, pilgrim tours, white
water rafting, Kayaking, canoeing, mountain flights, hot
air ballooning, pony trekking, jungle safaris, bird watching,
fishing, Hang gliding, ultra-light aircraft ride, bungy
jumping etc. In addition we have several special interest
tours like orchid tours, culture treks, honey hunting, village
tours, fossil hunting, meditation courses and seminars,
Shamanism tour, cave culture, snow leopard and blue ship
trek and many more take place through out the year, come
join us we will take you to the magnificent places in the
earth with love and care.
Kathmandu
Valley
The valley is situated at an altitude of 1336m above sea
level and covers an area of 218 sq. miles. Kathmandu the
capital can be described with a single word – ‘EXOTIC’.
It’s array of Pagodas dedicated to every deity in the
Hindu pantheon and Buddhist Chaityas are a sculptor’s
dream and architect’s delight. Old and new rests parallel
to each other in Kathmandu by the way of people, life, buildings
and streets. The rich tapestry of the cultural heritage
of Nepal is synthesized in the Kathmandu valley, the home
of the ancient and sophisticated Newari culture. The Newars
ate the indigenous inhabitants of the valley and the creators
of the splendid civilization of its three cities- Kathmandu,
Patan and Bahktapur. The skillfully built- Temples and palaces,
delicately- raveler stones and metal images, carved wooden
columns and pillars, and the laden shrines and chaitas of
these three historical cities stand as paradigm of Newar’s
artistic achievements.
Geography
: Nepal is a landlocked country between India in the
south, east and west and Tibetan Autonomous Region of China
on the north, 550 miles/880 km long and 150 miles/240 km
wide. The country is rectangular in shape stretching from
east to west. Her 56,826 sq. miles/148,000 sq. km. Is divided
lengthwise into three strips. The northernmost strip is
the Himalaya, meaning “abode of snow”. It includes
eight of the ten highest mountains in the world. The southernmost
region, which is the narrowest of the three strips, is called
the Terai. It is an extension of the Gangetic plain of northern
India, a jungle with elephants, rhinoceroses and tigers.
Between the two outer strips lies an interface region of
mountain, hills and valleys.
Entering
Nepal : The capital Kathmandu is linked by air with
Delhi, Bombay, Calcutta, Varanasi (India), Dhaka (Bangladesh),
Paro (Bhutan), Karachi (Pakistan), Bangkok (Thailand), Sanghai
(China), Osaka (Japan), Hongkong, Singapore, Dubai, Paris,
Frankfurt, London, Moscow, Doha and Lhasa (from April to
October). At present, besides the national carrier Royal
Nepal Airlines, Indian Airlines Bangladesh Biman, Pakistan
International Airways, Thai International Airways, Singapore
Airlines, Lufthansa German Airlines, Druk Air & Aeroflot
have regular flights to Kathmandu linking the aforesaid
cities by air.
Besides
the above visitor may also enter Nepal by surface from India
and the entry points are Kakarbhitta, Birgunj, Sunauli,
Nepalgunj, Jamuna, Dhangadi, Mohana, Mahendranagar, Ghaduchowki
and Kodari from Tibet
Visa:
Except for Indian nationals all other citizens must possess
a valid visa secured from any of the Royal Nepalese embassy
or Consulates abroad. 15/30 days visa can also be
obtained at the airport or check post after filling the
relevant application from affixed with two photographs and
paying the visa fee. This can also be extended
for a further period by paying additionae present visa
fee are as under
(Subject
to change if revised):
| A |
Single Entry for 60 days
|
US$
|
30.00
|
Per
Person |
| B |
Re Entry Visa |
US$ |
25.00 |
Per
Person |
| C |
Double Entry |
US$ |
40.00 |
Per
Person |
| D |
Multiple Entry for 60 days |
US$ |
60.00 |
Per
Person |
Passport
: A valid passport is required for all nationals except
Indians.Health: International certificate of vaccination
regarding current inoculation against cholera, typhoid and
yellow fever are not required.
Currency
Regulation : Import of Indian currency by foreigners
is strictly prohibited. Any other currency either in travelers
cheques or cash can be brought in unlimited quantity provided
it is declared upon arrival. All visitors (except Indians)
will be handed a form on which his/her monetary transaction
during his/her stay in Nepal will be recorded. Same should
be handed over at the airport at the time of departure.
Generally all unspent balance of Nepalese rupees can be
converted (at Airport) into US Dollar on production of Encashment
Certificates obtained earlier.
Custom
: All baggage must be identified and have to pass through
customs inspection at the port of entry. Personal effects
are allowed in duty free. Dutiable goods such as Camera
with 12 plates or 5 rolls of films, one bottle of liquor,
200 cigarettes, one tent and camping equipment are allowed
in free of duty. Others (such as Video Camera, Tape recorder
and Transistors) should be declared and will be endorsed
on the passport.
Time
: 5 hrs. 45 minutes ahead of GMT and 15 minutes ahead
of Indian Standard Time.
Climate
: The climate of Nepal varies from area to area depending
upon the altitude of the place. A visit to Nepal is possible
all the year around, but activities like Mountain flight,
Jungle Safari Excursions, Raftings & Trekkings are good
from October till May.
Clothing
: Warm clothing are required from November to February
and tropical wear from March till October.
Local
Currency : In Nepal, Nepalese Rupees is subdivided into
100 Paisa. The denominations of currency notes are available
in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 25, 50, 100, 500 & 1000 rupees.
Similarly, coins are available in 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, 50 &
100 Paisa which are in circulation.
Banking
Hours : Monday – Friday 9.00 to 13.00 hrs. client
services.
Credit
Cards : Most of the International Cards are widely accepted
by hotels and leading agents.
Religion
: The major religions of Nepal are Hinduism (90%), Buddhism
(6%), Islam (3%), and the rest is Christian (1%) e. g. Catholics
and others. But there is a harmony among the religions.
Population
: Nepal has almost 22 million people composed of variety
of races and tribes speaking different languages and dialects.
Language
: Nepali
is the official language, English is understood widely as
spoken by majority of people in Kathmandu Valley & other
big cities.
Water
: In Kathmandu, boiled and filtered water as well as
mineral water is available in most of the Hotels and Restaurants.
Elsewhere, it is advisable to use water ravelerson tablets
or stick to tea & soft drinks.
Electricity
: 220 volts AC, 50 cycles throughout the country.
Official
Weekly Holiday : Saturday is the official weekly holiday
in Nepal. Most of the shops dealing in Handicraft are closed
on this day, while Museums throughout the valley remain
closed on Tuesdays & other Government Holidays.
Rates
: All Rates quoted are NETT in US Dollars at current
rates of exchange and are subject to change without notice.
Working
hours and Holidays : Offices and most shopping areas
remain closed on Saturday. Shops usually remain open from
9.30 a. m. to 7 p. m. (small tourist shops may close much
later) and offices from 9.30 a. m. to 5.30 p. m. Nepal has
lot of festivals and religious holidays. Should one happen
to be in Nepal on any such day it is advisable to participate
in the festivities, possibly with the help of a guide.
Measures
: Officially Nepal has adopted the metric system. Temperature
is measured in Centigrade. Weights are measured in Kilograms.
Liability
: “Experience Himalaya Manasoravar Travels and
Tours" acts as intermediary between the concerned airlines,
hotels, transport – operators and local tourist offices
providing the services. Experience Himalaya Manasoravar
Travels and Tours is therefore not responsible for any loss,
injury or damage sustained by the tourists including those
occurring outside the touring programmes. Additional expenses
incurred due to delay, accidents, natural disaster, political
actions and unrest must be borne by the tourists. Programme,
prices, services and conditions are based on those valid
at the time of printing and are therefore subject to change
without advance notice. Participation in our tour implies
the tourists agreement to the above conditions”.
Temperatures
(°C) in Kathmandu:
| Jan |
02-19
|
Jul |
19-28
|
| Feb |
03-21
|
Aug |
19-28
|
| Mar |
07-25
|
Sep |
17-27
|
| Apr |
10-28
|
Oct |
12-27
|
| May |
14-30
|
Nov |
07-23
|
| Jun |
18-29
|
Dec |
02-20
|
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Some
Important Information
Encashment
of Foreign Currency : Travelers cheques and foreign
currency notes can be easily converted into Nepalese currency
with any branch of a bank ravelers to deal in foreign exchange
or licensed money changers.
Exchange
Rates : The rates for purchase and sale of Pound-Sterling,
Euro and US Dollar currency notes and foreign currency travelers
cheques, where applicable, are quoted by ravelers dealers/money-changers
within the floor and ceiling rates worked out daily in accordance
with guidelines prescribed by Nepal Rastra Bank. For other
currencies, banks quote rates based on market conditions.
Currencies like Pound-Sterling, US Dollar, Euro, German
Mark, Swiss-Francs, French and Japanese Yen are widely accepted.
Purchase
of Goods by Foreign Tourists:
I) Shops/emporia selling goods or providing services to
foreign tourist are permitted to accept payment in foreign
exchange in the following manner:
ii)
Foreign tourists are permitted by Nepalese customs to take
with them goods purchased in Nepal (except banned items)
without any value limit, provided the goods are purchased
out of funds brought from abroad. Some shops and emporia
also undertake to send the goods abroad as unaccompanied
baggage at the request of the tourists.
Payment
Condition:
Full Payment must reach us at least 15 days prior to the
arrival of the client. Payment should be made by Bank Telex
transfer only. If payment is made by Bank Draft, it must
be ‘A/C Payees’ or ‘Non – Negotiable’.
We will not be responsible if the bank draft is lost while
in transit and encashed fraudulently by a third party outside
Nepal. We do not accept company or personal Cheque.
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Nepal
today has altogether 230 big and small hotels which are
registered with the Department of Tourism, ranging from
5 star deluxe category to the small one star and tourist
standard hotels. A general outline of facilities available
in five, four and three star hotels are given below:
Five
Star Hotels:
A five star hotel has all it's rooms air-conditioned, well
furnished and with attached bath. More than two restaurants
and bars serving a variety of cuisine and drinks, swimming
pool, tennis court, beauty parlour, sauna, health club.
Banquet and conference facilities and a variety of other
modern luxurious facilities are also available.
Four
Star Hotels:
The four star hotels in Kathmandu constitute of air-conditioned,
well furnished room with attached bath, ore than one restaurant,
garden, banquet and conference facilities – though
in a slightly smaller scale.
Three
Star Hotels:
The three star hotels have air-conditioned rooms with attached
bath and standard furnishings. A minimum of one restaurant
and bar are available with standard luxury.
Sightseeing
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| WHAT
TO SEE IN AND AROUND KATHMANDU VALLEY ? |
Nepal
offers an incomparable scope to connoisseurs of art and
culture to see and study the different aspects of the fine
arts in its painting, sculpture, woodcarving and architecture.
The three main historic cities of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur
with numerous historical monuments old palaces and palace
squares, Shrines and temples, ageless traditions and legends
make it a veritable living museum. The Kathmandu valley
boats of seven-world heritage sites all within radius of
20km.
See
the key sites such as the classic Newari (the original inhabitants
of the Kathmandu valley) architecture in the medieval city
of Bhaktapur, the Hindu temple complex at Pashupatinath
(a UNISCO world heritage site) and the biggest Buddhist
stupa at Boudhanath .
Kathmandu
City : Known as Kantipur, the capital of the Kingdom
of Nepal. Here you will visit the temple of the Living Goddess,
who acknowledges the greetings of the devotees from the
balcony of her temple residence. Kasthamandap – the
source of the name Kathmandu and supposed to be made from
the timber of a single tree and the Durbar Square ate with
it's array of temples overlooked by the Hanuman Dhoka Palace,
the ancient place of the Nepalese Royalty.
Swayambhunath
: Located approximately 4 km/2.5 miles, Buddhist stupa
this is said to be 2000 years old. The stupa which forms
the main structure is composed of a solid hemisphere of
brick and earth supporting a lofty conical spire capped
by a pinnacle of copper gilt. Painted on the four sided
base of the spire are the all seeing eyes of Lord Buddha.
This hill is a mosaic of small Chaityas and Pagoda temples.
Pashupatinath
: Situated 5 kilometers ease of Kathmandu city, Pashupatinath
temple is one of the holiest Hindu temple dedicated to Lord
Shiva. Situated amidst a lush green natural setting on the
bank of the sacred Bagmati river, the temple built in pagoda
style has gilted roof and richly carved silver doors. Visitors
will be permitted to view the temple from the east bank
of River Bagmati, entrance in the temple being strictly
forbidden to all non Hindus. Pasupatinath is the centre
of annual pilgrimage on the day of Shivaratri, which falls
in the month of February/March. Behind the temples are the
cremation grounds.
Boudhanath
: This stupa, eight kilometers east of Kathmandu City
is one of the biggest in the world of its kind. It stand
with four pairs of eyes in the four cardinal direction keeping
watch for righteous behaviour and human prosperity. This
Buddhist stupa was built by King Man Deva at the advice
of Goddess Mani Jogini. It is built on an octagonal base
inset with prayer wheels. The shrine is ringed by houses
of Lamas of Buddhist priests.
Budhanilkantha
: It is situated about eight kilometers north of Kathmandu
at the foot of Shivapuri range. Here one can see the image
of Vishnu reclining on the bed of snakes dating back to
5th century AD.
Patan
: 5km/3miles away from Kathmandu city. Patan also known
as Lalitpur, is the city of fine arts, enclosed within 4
stupas said to be built in 3rd century AD, by Emperor Ashoka.
You will see the Durbar Square, the Patan Durbar which houses
a bronze collection, the Krishna Temple built by King Siddhi
Narsingh Malla, Hiranya Varna Mahavihar and Mahaboudha Temple.
A
trip to The Tibetan Refugee Camp and the Handicraft Centre
will also be done while visiting Patan, where you will witness
the hand weaving of Tibetan carpets and moulding of metal
statues.
Bungamati
: A Typical Newar village, lying 11 km./7miles south
of Kathmandu, founded in 7th century AD, possesses one of
the most important God of Kathmandu Valley known as Matsyendranath
– the God of Rain and compassion, worshiped equally
by Hindus and Buddhists, He was accredited by the people
for introducing rice plantation in the valley a tour of
this village combined with Khokana imprints a beautiful
impression on the visitors mind through it's set up and
primitive way of living.
Harisiddhi
: This is a small village 10km/6miles south east of
Kathmandu. It is a very unique village in the sense that
no villagers wear leather shoes inside the village. All
visitors are requested to wear cloth shoes while visiting
this village. A tour of Harisiddhi can be done in conjunction
with Godavari or Phulchoki.
Bhadgaon : Also known as Bhaktapur meaning the city
of devotees, this place is the home of medieval art and
architecture. Lying 14 km/9 miles east of Kathmandu City,
this place was founded in the 9th century and is shaped
like a conch shell. The city is at the height of 4600 ft.
above see level. In Bhadgaon you will visit the Durbar Square
with it's array of temples overlooked by the palace of 55
windows built by King Bhupatindra Malla. The Nyatapola Temple
also built by King Bhupatindra Mall, is the best of example
of Pagoda style and stands of five terraces on each of which
stands a pair of figures two famous strong men,two elephants,
two lion two griffins and two goddesses. Time permitting,
a visit to the museum of Thanka painting can also be considered.
Thimi
: Clay pottery is the traditional occupation of this
village which is on the way to Bhaktapur. Here one can witness
the making of clay pots, flower vases etc. and buy them
very cheaply if they so desire.
Banepa
: Capital of entire region in the middle of the 15th
century, this small commercially active Newar Village lying
27km/ 17 miles ease of Kathmandu city has catered to the
people of the neighboring areas unnoticed to it's own past.
When Nepal had trade relations with Tibet, this place was
an important enroute trade centre. Tour of this village
gives a good combination of history, rural life and scenic
beauty.
Dhulikhel
: Situated at an altitude of approx. 1800 m / 5500 ft
above the sea level and 32/20 miles east of Kathmandu City.
It is famous for it's vantage location in viewing the Himalayan
ranges from Cho Olyu in the east to Himalchuli in the west.
Dhulikhel is very popular for viewing sunrise and sunset.
Changunarayan
: The temple of Changunarayan, located at distance of
14km./9miles, in universally acknowledged as the most stately
example of Pagoda style in Nepal. It is considered to be
one of the greatest artistic legacies of the Lichhavian
era. Changu is one of the ancient historical places situated
on a hillock with conical shape. It is said to be the oldest
pagoda style temple in the valley from early 3rd century
AD.
Dakshinkali
: Literally meaning the Kali of the south, this temple
is dedicated to Goddess Kali ,a Hindu goddesses of power./
A sacrifice ceremony of goats, chickens, ducks etc. is held
every Tuesdays and Saturdays. The temple itself is located
in forested canyon and lies 19km/ 12 miles from Kathmandu
City.
Daman
: Situated at a height of 2100 m./7500 ft. above sea
level, and a distance of 80 km/50 miles. Daman is known
for it's vantage location in viewing the Himalayan peaks
such as Mt. Everest, Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang,
Dorje Lakpa, Gauri-Shanker, Cho Oyu etc. There is a view
tower from where one can have a panoramic view of 300 miles
of the Himalayan ranges.
Godavari
: Situated 16 km/10 miles from Kathmandu city, Godavari
located at the lap of Phulchoki hill is well known for it's
prized butterfly population including rare collector's items.
The Royal Botanical Garden also located here has a wide
ranging collection of high altitude orchids and cacti. This
place is also recommended to the bird watcher.
Kakani
: Is about 28 km/24 miles north west of Kathmandu city.
Besides the view of the Himalayan peaks like Manslu, Himalchuli
and Annapurna. It is also famous for it's landscape. Wild
animals and birds are available in the forest of Kakani.
Kirtipur
: It is a small town 8 km/5 miles south-west of Kathmandu
on the top of a hill near Tribhuvan University. This historical
town has many things to offer – old shrines, temples
and old houses. One can also witness people in traditional
costumes weaving their requirement of cloth on looms.
Chovar
: Is 8 km/5 miles south west of Kathmanu City. 'Chovar'
is famous for it's gorge which is said to have been cut
by Manjushree to drain the water out from Kathmandu Valley
which was then supposed to be a lake. This gorge is the
only outlet for all the rivers of the valley and is always
combined with the excursion to Dakhsinkali.
Khokana
: Is a small Newar village on the southern flank of
Kathmandu valley and about 11 km/7 miles from Kathmandu
city established in 7th century AD by the mighty Licchhavi
rulers of Nepal. It is a unique village in the whole of
Kathmandu valley because of it's aloofness from modern civilisation.
Kodari
: is the border point between Nepal and Tibetan Region
of People's Republic of China. The 114 km. Road from Kathmandu
takes about 4 to 5 hours each way. It is a beautiful drive
through country side. On this road one can see beautiful
mountain, snow fed rivers, natural hot spring, village life
etc.
Nala
: is a small isolated village 27 km/17 miles east of
Kathmandu situated on the southern slope of a mountain over
looking the beautiful green valley. The whole village has
gained a mystical valley atmosphere due to it's set up and
a typical temple of Bhagawati a classic example of pagoda
architecture. There is also a 9th century AD temple dedicated
to Lord Lokeshwor – a Buddhist God.
Nagarjun
: is about 10 km/6.2 miles from Kathmandu City. There
is a Buddhist shrine at the top which is very holy for both
Buddhist and Hindus. To reach the top one has to climb for
about 15 to 20 minutes. From this point a panoramic view
of the Himalayan ranges can be seen.
Nagarkot
: is situated about 35 km/22 miles east of Kathmandu
and from here one can see Mount Everest and other peaks
of the Himalayas. Nagarkot is located between Kathmandu
valley in the west and Indrawati in the east. The top of
Nagarkot commands accelerating views in all directions.
The altitude of Nagarkot is 2229 m/7133 ft. above sea level.
Peanuti
: is an ancient village, 32 km/20 miles south east of
Kathmandu situated on the banks of Punyamati river. A leisurely
walk throughout this tiny village will reveal it's antiquity
to the visitors, a must in Peanut is a visit to the 14th
century AD Hindu temple of Shiva locally known as Indreswor
Mahadev. The wooden struts supporting the temple are splendid
example of wood carving of that era, which till date remain
unchallenged in the entire Kingdom.
Phulchoki
: It is one of the most prominent peak 2829 m/9050 ft.
high, which surrounds the valley of Kathmandu. This mountain,
as it's name suggests (Phul means flower in Nepali) is a
natural garden of wild roses, yellow jasmine, iris and other
native flowers. The summit is a rich grove of rhododendrons
of various hues. A jeepable road leads to the top of the
hill where there is a Buddhist shrine. A youthful hiker
stands a good chance of scaling the peak in a little more
than three hours. The place has all the makings of a peaceful
reason area.
Sankhu
: is a small village 20 km/12 miles north east of Kathmandu.
This village was the last stop for the traders going to
Lhasa from 7th till 19th century AD. The village is a legend
in itself. Here one can also see a beautiful temple of Bajra
Yogini, a Buddhist Goddess of power, if one is willing to
walk for 50 minutes uphill.
Tika
Bhairav : A small peaceful spot 16 km/10 miles south
of Kathmandu City is name after the Tantric God Bhairav.
One can combine this place with 3 typical Newar villages
of Chapagaon, Sunakothi and Thecho. Off all the villages,
Chapagaon treasures one of the earliest statue of Brahma
– the Hindu God of creation – from the early 7th
century AD and thus deserves special attention.
Natural
History Museum : The only of its kind in Nepal is situated
3 km west of Kathmandu city, behind the famous Swayambhunath
hillock. Programmed under the Institute of Science, this
Museum has over 14,000 of unique collections of butterflies,
fish, reptiles, birds, mammals, plants and fossils recorded
with the country. Near by there is another National Museum,
one can have a general idea of the historical and archeological
objects on show since it houses a remarkable and wide range
of weapons of war antiques.
Mountain
Flight : One hour daily flight is operated by Airlines,
to view the mighty Himalayan peaks including Mt. Everest.
This is the closest one can go to the peaks without having
to trek. Please note that flights do not land any where
all you will be offered is an aerial view.
RAFTING/KAYAKING
: Few rafting rivers in the world can match the thundering
course of the rivers of Nepal originating from the snow
meltdown of the Himalayan terrain. The rivers gush through
the twisted canyons, winding through calm valleys where
small settlements are perched on the banks, taming out only
as they spill out into the Indian plains to merge with the
Ganges. A river trip is one of the best ways to explore
the typical cross- section of the country’s natural
as well as the ethnic-cultural heritage with massive doses
of adrenaline buzz on our world caliber white water thrills.
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| What
to see – out of the Kathmandu Valley. |
The
Rapti Valley (Chitwan) : The Royal Chitwan National
Park is the lush valley of Chitwan situated in the foothills
of Churia ranges, 75 airmiles south west of Kathmandu, houses
the first National Park of the Kingdom. The Royal Chitwan
National park is famous for it's variety of wildlife especially
the Great Indian One Horned Rhinoceros and the elusive Royal
Bangal Tiger. At present there are seven wildlife Lodges/Camps
operating safari style lodges within the park area and offers
elephant excursion in the hear of the jungle to view game.
An excursion to Chitwan National Park is possible only form
October till May. And can be reached both by air and surface.
Gorkha
: The town of Gorkha located at a distance of 144 km/90
miles, north west of Kathmandu was the ancient Kingdom of
the present Shah Kings. The motorable road ends just below
the Gorkha town and all tour of this place has to be done
on foot. Gorkha palace located on top of a hill overlooking
the town of Gorkha, can be reached after a steep uphill
climb of an hour and a half. Though the main palace courtyard
is closed to all foreigners one can however enter the outer
part, which offers a spectacular birds eye view of the Gorkha
town. For the more energetic hiker, a further climb of half
an hour is suggested. This particular point known as Upalla
Kot gives the best aerial view of the palace. Gorkha can
be reached by road in conjunction with Pokhara or a same
day trip can be undertaken from Kathmandu.
Lumbini
: 232 km/145 miles away form Kathmandu, Lumbini is the
birth place of Lord Buddha. The broken Ashoka Pillar, remnants
of old monstery, images of Buddha's mother Maya Devi are
still preserved here. Lumbini can be reached by road from
Kathmandu via Pokhara or Royal Chitwan National Park or
by air till Bhairawa and then by road.
Kapilvastu
: is 30 km/18 miles north west of Lumbini – the
birth place of Lord Buddha. This is the place where Lord
Buddha spent his 29 years. Today it is like a forest, but
the recent archaeological excavation has brought the old
Royal Palace to surface. The road to Kapilvastu is a rough
dirt track and can be reached only by four wheel drive vehicles.
Pokhara
Valley : The rare combinations of snow clad peaks and
snow fed lakes and rivers has helped to make the valley
of Pokhara (210 km/131 miles from Kathmandu) one of the
most picturesque natural attractions in the kingdom. A must
for all visitors to Pokhara valley is the Phewa Lake. A
half day excursion of the Pokhara Valley consists of a visit
to the old city, new market, the cap factory and the Seti
gorge. For people with more time in hand can visit the Begnas
and Rupa Tal or take a 3 hours hike to Sarankot or Hyangia.
Pokhara is accessible daily by road or air from Kathmandu.
Tansen
: Situated on the slopes of a hill called Shreenagar
Danda, Tansen is a bright Himalayan town. It is also the
most popular summer resort of western Nepal on account of
its position and climate. It has perhaps Nepal's most far
stretching views of the country's chief attraction –The
Himalayas, from Dhaulagiri in the west to Gaurishanker in
the north east.
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Ghatasthapana
Bada Dashain (Vijaya Dashami) : It is truly the national
festival of Nepal. Every Nepali is stirred by the prospects
of joy that this festival is supposed to bring with it.
The change of mood is also induced psychologically by the
turn of autumn season after a long spell of monsoon, introducing
clear and brilliant days, an azure blue sky and a green
carpet of fields, the climate is also just ideal at this
time, it is neither too cold nor too warm. The Nepalese
cherish their Dashain as time for eating well and dressing
well. Each house sets up an shrine to worship the Goddess
at this time. Barley seeds are planted on the first day
in every household and nurtured for nine days. During this
period Goddess Durga Bhawani is worshipped and offered a
lot of blood sacrifices. Buffaloes, goats, chickens and
ducks are killed by the thousands at the temples at military
posts and in every household. One of the main centre that
witnesses the animal sacrifice in a Large scale at this
time is the Hanuman Dhoka palace on the ninth. On the concluding
day of the festival called the Tika, the elders of the family
give Tika to their junior members and to other relatives
who may also come to seek their blessings. The fresh shoots
of the barley's are also given. Family feasting and feting
of guests is a common practice at this time.
Tihar
– : It lasts for five days and is marked by worship
to different animals such as crow, the dog and the cow,
five various days. The most important day is Laxmi puja.
The most endearing sight of this festival is presented by
the illumination of the entire town with rows of tiny flickering
lamps on Laxmi puja. In the evening of this day, the Goddess
of Wealth, Laxmi is worshipped at every household and it
is on her welcome that myriad of lamps are burnt. On the
fifth day sister show their affection towards their brothers
with puja and feed them with delectable food. They pray
for their brothers long life to Yama, the Hindu God of death.
Bala
Chaturdasi -: For one year after the death, the soul
of the dead wanders around awaiting entrance to the under
world and it is the inescapable duty of living relatives
to provide it with substance, comfort and peace once or
twice each year and Bala Chaturdasi is one of them. The
relatives pay homage to Pashupatinath and offer grains while
taking a round of the temple.
Shree
Panch Prithvi Jayanti -: The day is celebrated as the
birth anniversary of the great conqueror of Nepal, the first
Shah King of United Nepal. The great festivity celebrates
particularly around the bronze life size statue of the great
monarch in front of the magnificent unique Lion Palace “Singha
Durbar” in Kathmandu. On that day a large procession
will be marching in its front with a big life size photo
of the King Prithvi Narayan Shah in a well-decorated chariot
from Basantapur in the ancient Royal Palace square and ends
in front of Lion Palace. On the same day evening, the ritual
bath of White Machhendra takes place at Kel Tole, Kathmandu.
Magh
Sankranti –: A Sankranti signifies the first day
of any month in the Nepali calendar year. The first day
of the month of Magh, which falls in January is sacred day
in Nepal, because the sun, on this day, is believed to be
astrologically in a good position. It starts on its northward
journey in its heavenly course on this day, thus announcing
the commencement of the Uttarayana. In the Nepalese belief
this day marks the division of the Winter and Summer Solstices.
Bathing in rivers is prescribed from this day, especially
at the river confluence and feasting with rich foods of
special preparation is common in the family.
Basanta
Panchami –: On this day Nepalese people bid farewell
to the winter season and look forward to the spring season.
Most of the people of Nepal worship Goddess of learning
called “SARASWATI”. The people of Kathmandu valley
go to a little shrine near Swayambhunath to worship this
Goddess.
Maha
Shivatri –: This is the most famous and celebrated
festival of Nepal which attracts large crowds from far flung
places both in India & Nepal. The festival is consecrated
in honour of Shiva. It is observed by bathing and holding
of a religious fast. All Shiva shrines become the places
of visit for “Darshan”, but the greatest attraction
of all is held by the temple of Pashupatinath in Kathmandu.
One gets to see thousands of Hindus devotees coming to visit
the temple of Pashupati. Among them are a large number of
Sadhus and Naked ascetics. Many people like to keep awake
for the whole night keeping vigilance over an oil lamp burnt
to please Shiva. Children are seen keeping awake similarly
over a bonfire in many localities. In the afternoon an official
function is held to celebrate this festival at Tundikhel.
The Royal Nepal Army organises a show in which series of
gun fire are sounded. The ceremony is witnesses by His Majesty
the King.
Fagu
Purnima –: This is known as Holi. Holi is the festival
of colour. It is observed for eight days just before the
full moon of Phalgun and during this time people indulge
in colour throwing at each other. This festival does not
have any religious flavour as it is practised in the hills
of Nepal. Nevertheless, the festival has got some official
status. Because the colour festival is always heralded by
the sticking of a wooden pole with colourful streamers beside
the old Royal Palace at Basantapur by the arrangements of
the Government Religious Endowment Office.
Ghoda
Jatra – : The festival has two sides of its celebration.
Its cultural side involves the Newars of Kathmandu, who
celebrates it for several days, the idols of the Gods of
many localities are taken in a procession in their area
in portable chariots. Every households will be feasting
at this time. A demon called “ Gurumapa” is also
propitiated at Tundikhel. The other aspects of the festival
is provided by the function organised by the Royal Nepalese
Army at Tundikhel in the afternoon of the main day. Horse
race and acrobatic shows are presented at this time in which
His Majesty the King will be present. A meeting of Kumari,
Bhadrakali, Kankeshori and Bhairab at Asan on the second
day of the main celebration is another highlight of the
festival.
The
Nepalese New Year’s Days –: On this day a
popular festival takes place in the 3rd city of Kathmandu
valley Bhaktapur, where a gigantic pole installed with two
long flags hanged on the top will be laid down(rooted out)
in a great pomp and show. This will last for a week, many
chariots festivals of Gods and Goddesses will be celebrated
with open joys and cheers.
Seto Machhendranath Jatra – : On this day a
popular festival held in honour of the white Machhendranath,
who is actually the Padmapani Lokeswara, whose permanent
shrine is situated at Matsyendra Bahal in Kel Tole in the
middle of the bazaar in Kathmandu. A huge chariot of wood
supported on four large wheels and carrying tall spire covered
with green foliage is made ready for receiving the image
of the divinity on this occasion and for dragging in the
old town. There is such a spontaneous and heavy turnout
of the devotees to pay homage to this God, who is also said
to be “ Embodiment of Compassion” at this time.
Ram Nawami –: This day celebrates the birth
of Rama, one of the incarnation of Vishnu, a prominent Hindu
God. Religious fast is observed and worship is offered to
Rama. A special celebration takes place at Janakpur temple
of Rama and Janaki on this day.
Rato Machhendranath Jatra – : This festival
is the biggest social-culture event for the town of Patan.
It begins with the chariot journeys of the most widely venerated
deity of the Nepal valley, who resides in his twin shrines
at Patan and Bungamati. His popular name is Bunga Deo, but
non Newars call him also by the name of Red Machhendranath.
The wheeled chariot is prepared at pulchowk and pulled through
the town of Patan in several stages until several month
later it reaches Jawalakhel for the final celebration of
this festival called the Bhoto Dekhaune. The two Machhendranath
of Patan and Kathmandu form part of same cult of Avalokiteswara
in the Mahayan religion.
Buddha
Jayanti – : This day which falls on the full moon
of the month of Baisakh is celebrated to commemorate the
birth attainment of enlightenment and the death of Gautam
Buddha, the founder preacher of Buddhism, more that 2500
years ago. Prayers are sung and worship is offered by the
Buddhists in leading Buddhist shrines throughout the country
including Lumbini in the Rupandehi district, which is the
birth place of Buddha. There is a great fare held at Lumbini
on this day.
Janai Purnima ( Rakchshya Bandhan) – : The full
moon of the month of Shrawan, the day when this festival
is observed is considered sacred all over Nepal and is celebrated
in different manner by various groups of people of Nepal.
However, the most widely accepted mode of celebration is
that on this day all the twice-born caster take ritual bath
and they change their sacred thread. Everyone gets strings
of thread on his wrist from the Brahmans a protective mark
for the whole year. This day is also held sacred for bathing
in Gosainkunda. One can also see a pageantry of the Jhankris
attired in their traditional costume as they come to bathe
at Kumbheshwor at Patan. These Jhankris also visit the temple
of Kalinchowk Bhagwati in Dolkhas district where they go
to bet their healing powers as they are the traditional
healers of the Nepalese villages.
Gai
Jatra(The Cow festival) – : In this festival teen-aged
boys dressed up as cows, parade the streets of the town.
This costume springs from the belief that cows help the
members of the family who died within that year to travel
to heaven smoothly. Some are also dressed up as an ascetic
or a fool for achieving the same objective for their dead
family members. Groups of mimics improvise short satirical
enactment on the current social scenes of the town for the
entertainment of the public. The week beginning from Janai
Purnima actually unfolds a season of many good religious
and cultural activities. All the Buddhist monasteries open
their gates to the visitors to view their bronze sculptures
and collection of painting for a week. At Patan, one observes
the festival of Mataya at this time.
The
festivity of Gai Jatra itself lasts for a week enlivened
by the performance of dance and drama in the different localities
of the town. The spirit of the old festival is being increasingly
adapted by cultural centers, newspaper and magazines to
fling humour and satire on the Nepalese Social and Political
life.
Krishnaastami – : The day is celebrated as the
birth anniversary of Krishna, one of the incarnation of
Vishnu. Religious fast is observed and Krishna’s temple
visited by the devotees on this day. A procession goes around
the town displaying the pictures of Lord Krishna, a practice
which was started in the recent years by social organisation
called the Sanatan Dharma Sewa Samiti.
Teej – : This is the festival for the ladies.
On this day the Nepalese women go to Shiva temple in colourful
dresses to worship Shiva. In Kathmandu Valley they go to
Pashupatinath and then worship Shiva (Hindu God of Destruction)
and whatever they wish that will be fulfilled.
Indra
Jatra –: Like Gai Jatra, this also heralds a week
of religious and cultural festivity in Kathmandu. There
are several face of this festival. On the night when this
festival begins members of the family in which death has
taken place within one year, go around the town limits of
Kathmandu burning incense and putting lamps along the route.
The same morning a tall wooden pole representing the statue
of Indra and large wooden masks of Bhairab are put on display
in the bazaar. Several groups of religious dance like the
Devinach, Bhairava and Bhakku as well as Mahankalinach come
into life during this week. The week also commences with
pulling of chariot of Ganesh, Bhairava and Kumari in Kathmandu.
On this historical day, King Prithvi Narayan Shah made a
victorious march with his troops into the town and ascended
the throne of Kantipur the old name of Kathmandu displacing
the Malla King Jaya Prakash Malla.
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