As the threat of the Corona Virus(Covid-19) is still looming over the world and returning back to normal is still far from happening, the Ministry Of Culture Tourism and Civil Aviation has considered reopening all tourism-related activities including mountain climbing as the autumn season commences. As the world economy is seemingly in crisis our government plans to minimize the losses to some extent by letting some business sectors run as usual by adopting all health safety measures. In mid-June, the government had begun to ease the lockdown to lessen the economic fallout from the pandemic. The Nepal Government has also decided to lift the temporary ban on all international and domestic flights from August 17 in the country.
It gives the glimmer of hope for the stagnant business as they were facing the problem of keeping their business afloat. Now with this announcement of letting the chosen specific business sectors run it might prove to be a breath of fresh air for the travel companies as well.
Is it safe to travel to Nepal?
Most of you might have this question if the Nepal Government has announced to reopen the tourism industry but is it still safe to travel to Nepal? You’re right to be cautious about traveling to any country in the current situation. But regarding whether it is safe or not to visit Nepal it’s still hard to say. As nothing can be said until the vaccine is provided but until then safety measures are being taken to reduce the risk of contamination. Although tests are being conducted here on a daily basis to find the infected individuals still if not in large numbers there have been cases popping up now and then. But due to the quick actions were taken by the government when signs of the virus were seen inside the country due to which it hasn’t been able to spread like wildfire. Much of the cities have been operating as usual with some restrictions placed to prevent the spread of the virus.
Trekking in Nepal is possible throughout the year. However, you have to choose the destination wisely. However, if you are planning to trek in Nepal in the Autumn season then you can choose any destination as it is considered as the best time to trek anywhere in Nepal. The Autumn season falls under September to early December in Nepal. The season attracts lots of trekkers around the world and without a doubt, the trekking trail will be crowded in this season. Despite the crowd, you would be able to witness magnificent mountain views, moderate temperature with warm days and cool nights, clear weather with blue skies. You would also be able to witness the great festival of Nepal i.e. Dashain and Deepawali. In the Everest Region you can witness the great Mani Rimdu Festival as well.
Top 5 places to trekking destination in autumn season in Nepal:
Everest Base Camp Trek via 3 Passes Trek is the immensely superb itinerary for the trekkers willing to experience complete trekking in the Everest region. After arrival in Kathmandu, trip officially begins with an electrifying flight to the airport at Lukla. The trek turns to anticlockwise route including the destination- Tengboche from Namche with an intention to cross Kongma-la pass moving on towards Everest Base Camp and Kalapatthar. The adventure continues crossing other two passes: Cho-la and Renjo-la along with Climbing up to Gokyo-Ri. On the way, experience the culture, tradition, and lifestyle of highland Sherpas, monastic life, and the ancient trading route. You can also witness Mani Rimdu festival at Tengboche, Thame and Chiwong Monastery. The date of this festival is set according to the Tibetan Lunar calendar. The head lama at the Tyangboche Monastery announces the dates. Mani Rimdu Festival date for the year 2020 is celebrating on 31st October, 1st and 2nd November 2020.
Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the popular trekking routes in Annapurna area in Nepal. This trekking package is specially designed for those trekkers, who is looking to explore the Annapurna region, in the minimum possible time.Annapurna Circuit Trek takes you along the horseshoe shaped fascinating trail that encircles amazing Annapurna is the world’s most popular trek beyond doubt. It is the most frequented trek in Nepal as well.
The trek highlights exceedingly beautiful Manang Valley settled by the endogenous Gurung. The cultural encounters in numerous ethnically inhabited villages are the wonders of Nepal’s cultural diversity seen during the trek. The floral and faunal biodiversity of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project is great sights. The rawness of nature that include pure cascading waterfalls, Rocky Mountains and deep gorges are mesmerizing. The most important highlights of the trek are the Himalayan vista from the top of the Thorung La Pass. The incredibly adventurous walk to the top of the Thorung La Pass and down to Muktinath is beautifully challenging. The shifting views of Annapurna and its neighboring peaks are always the prime highlights of Annapurna Circuit Trek. Last but not the least Jomsom the last stopover point of the trek is simply cherry on the top.
Manaslu Circuit Trek is the best alternative walking adventure to famous Annapurna Circuit Trek witnessing rich local heritage in the Lap of stunning Mt. Manaslu and crossing over the most dramatic Larkya Pass (5160 m). It is an ideal trek that holds the blend of wonderful cultural heritage, unparalleled Himalayan vistas, pure Himalayan ecosystem and great walking experience following the ancient salt trading route of the Tiber along the Budi Gandaki river. Since 1992, Manaslu Circuit Trek has been the best alternative trekking to Annapurna Circuit Trek. The trek begins with a drive to Arughat and chases the traverses uphill beside the rushing Budi Gandaki River. The walk through uneven gorges sliced between Himachuli Peak 7890m, the Manaslu Circuit Trek most of the times covers wilderness walk.
Manaslu Circuit Trek also highlights the beautiful cultural blend of different ethnic tribes. The landscape dominated by wonderful Budi Gandaki River Valley, the views of majestic Manaslu (eighth highest peak in the world), Mt. Himachuli and Mt Ganesh among others are other major highlights of the trek. Moreover, the latter half of the trek caters the challenge of crossing Larkya La Pass 5153m. The culture of Nuri, which manifests little Tibet in the mountains below Mt. Manaslu is a great cultural encounter during the trek. After crossing the wide Larkya pass, it finally enters Annapurna Conservation Area Project and treads along the trails of famous Round Annapurna Trek before it ends at Besisahar.
Gokyo Valley Trek is one of the most popular offbeat treks in the Everest Region. Gokyo Valley Trek via Renjo-la Pass is an astonishing journey to the wonderful hamlets of the High land overviewing lifestyle, culture as well as panoramic views of Himalayas. This trek takes you to explore the culture, tradition, and lifestyle of highland dwellers and a glimpse of Himalayan Buddhism along the trail.
Like most of the treks in the Everest Region, the Gokyo Valley Trek also begins at Lukla with an electrifying flight from Kathmandu. This trek is specially designed for passionate trekkers who have desires to see Everest and its surroundings from a different perspective. This is a moderate trek in Everest Region and best suits those trekkers who prefer relatively quiet trails with fewer fellow trekkers.
Gosaikunda and Langtang valley trek-15 days is the closest trip on the Himalayan region from Kathmandu valley. A few hours’ drive from Kathmandu will takes you to the beautiful Langtang valley, where you will see the tranquil remote landscape, people following Himalayan Buddhism with living style and culture similar to Tibet. The area is naturally as well as culturally outstanding, though becomes one of the popular destination nearby Kathmandu. This trek will offer a varieties of Rhododendron, huge Bamboo forest, beautiful landscape, snowcapped mountains range and rich wild life including Red Pandas.
Following local trail upstream Bhote Koshi River through the ethnic Tamang villages, lush green forest and the wide spread Langtang valley with a view of splendid mountains from all sides. Retrace the trail to the Shin Gompa to a high plateau at the sacred lake Gosaikunda. The trail even is in habitat by the shy Red Pandas. Watch the sunrise over a multitude of sparkly lakes of this holy site. The place Gosaikunda is believed to be created by Lord Shiva with his “Trishul”. Here you can see more than 108 small lakes including Bhairav Kunda and Saraswati Kunda as core.
Kulekhani Dam which is also famously known as “Indra Sarovar” is a beautiful and panoramic landscape situated in Makwanpur district. The activities that can be done once you’re at the Indra Sarovar are fishing, hiking, trekking, and boating. It is a huge man-made dam that was built by people in 1977 A.D. Kulekhani can is the nearest quick escape from the hustle-bustle of the Kathmandu Valley. And can be reached from Kathmandu in few ways but two of the ways are usually used. First, by taking a vehicle through the Dakshinkali – Hetauda highway and the second one is by hiking about 19-20 km from Naubise.
Markhu is a small town which is situated at the northwestern shores of Indra Sarovar and inhabited by the various groups of Newar, Tamang, Magar, Bahun communities all living together in peace It normally takes about 30 mins to drive from Kulekhani Dam to the Markhu Village and is about 7 km from the Kulekhani Dam. Markhu is very famous on this loop trip as it is the first proper settlement that offers proper hotels and lodges after the Kulekhani Dam itself.
The Major Highlights:
The Khulekhani man-made dam itself which holds 85,300,000m3 (69,200 acre-ft) of water
The huge suspension bridge from where the view is great
The very popular Fish Farming and Fish khaja set
Boating in the huge manmade lake i.e The Indra Sarovar
Bhotechaur is also
known as Mini Illam is a small village located in Sindhupalchowk District
surrounded by the beautiful panoramic view of hills with the mesmerizing
atmosphere. The fresh air, the sound of the river running, birds singing and
the feeling of being far away from the materialistic city life is just a few
kilometers away. A place just a few kilometers and hours ride away will
surprise you with its spectacular beauty and make you realize how beautiful and
fruitful the journey to the place is. For a brief moment, you will forget that
you’re roaming in the tea garden of Bhotechaur instead you will be so caught up
in the moment that you will make yourself believe that you’re in the tea garden
of Illam itself.
A trip to the Everest
Tea Garden can be the perfect destination to make one’s weekend very refreshing
and joyful.
The journey towards
the beautiful Mini Illam starts from catching a bus from Bouddha but if your
using your vehicle than the route is simple just head to Bouddha from Chabahil
and you will reach Jorpati which is a pretty dusty road as the conditions of
the road further up is also the same but one can breathe fresh air once you
reach Salinadi Chowk which is few minutes ahead of Sankhu. The road ahead is
quite interesting and adventurous with lots of steep uphill and curves and
turns. After 15 to 20 min of the ride, one can reach Jarsingh Pauwa from where
the left route takes you towards Bhotechaur while the latter will go towards
Melamchi. The road after reaching upon the outskirts of Bhotechaur is smooth
with fields above and below the green hills. It is quite a sight to behold and
will leave anyone mesmerized.
Within just about 10
mins one can reach Chauki Bhanjyang, Shankharapur from where one can trek to
Chisapani as well. Then, the road is almost downhill from there incorporating
the breathtaking panoramic views and landscapes. After around 15 mins you will
reach your destination.
After reaching upon
the destination one can head towards the famous Everest Tea Garden which is located
in Jaisi Village of the same VDC. But to reach the actual spot one has to ride
quite uphill and muddy off-road. Once you reach the destination the greenery
and beauty that it holds will completely astound anyone. And here’s a short fun
fact “ The Everest Tea Estate Pvt.Ltd. was established in 1995 AD by
former TU professor Som Gauchan. The estate is mainly popular for producing
orthodox green tea.”
All the troubles and
fatigue will automatically vanish once you reach the place and witness the
garden with magical powers of beauty and grace. One thing is for sure that it
will give you a taste or experience of being in a tea garden and will be taken
aback by the serenity of the place.
Kathmandu is a city that was founded in a vast valley after draining a large lake as per the legends say and where the ancient traditions of this city are passionately conserved while embracing the modern technological advancements. This is a city where one gets a chance to witness the unity in diversity as many people from different caste, ethnicity, and religion, race living together in harmony and where the Gods and people share the same street. Truly a city of monuments, temples, stupas in every chowks and street. A city of various political influence and cultural embrace.
In this ever so culturally and traditionally rich place one has many options to go to and soak in and learn the historical past and tradition of those places. Here is the list of the places that you need to visit while inside the Kathmandu Valley.
1. Kathmandu Durbar Square
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Kathmandu Durbar Square is enlisted in the “UNESCO World Heritage Site” and is also popularly known as Hanuman Dhoka square. It is one of the major attractions in Kathmandu Valley as most of the cultural centers of Nepal are concentrated around the Kathmandu valley; Hanuman-dhoka Durbar Square among those cultural sites is the most important one. The statue of Hanuman established by his majesty King Pratap Malla at the entrance of the royal palace in 1672 A.D was what influenced “The name Hanuman-dhoka Durbar”. The famous Basantapur Durbar Palace was built under the reign of the great “Shah Dynasty” ruler King Prithvi Narayan shah in 1770 which is also known as Kathmandu Durbar Square. It is located at the heart of the ancient city in Kathmandu and is surrounding both Hindu and Buddhist temples. Most of the monuments that date back to the 15th to 18th century are mostly embellished in pagoda style with very intricate exterior carvings. The religious and culturally rich life of the people is emphasized with its historic palaces, temples, and traditions. Other interesting things which cannot be missed once you’re in Kathmandu are “Kumari (The Living Goddess) Gar” “Kastha Mandap” Maru Ganesh, Mahadev Temple, Shiva Parvati Temple, Bhagwati Temple, Old Palace, Saraswati Temple, Krishna Octangular Temple, Big drums, Kal Bhairav, Jagannath Temple, and Taleju Temple, etc.
2. Swayambhunath Temple
The
name “Swayambhunath” is termed after the word “Self-Created” and history
mentions the stupa is from back 5th century when the valley was made out of an
out of an antiquated lake. Most usually uttered as “Monkey Temple” the
Swayambhunath is one of the excellent landmarks on Kathmandu valley which is
enrolled at the world heritage site. Arranged on a peak, this wonderful holy
spot showcases a constraining white stupa with entrancing Buddha eyes and a
sparkling golden spire. One of the most prominent spots in the city, The
Swayambhunath viewpoint also recommends the shocking landscape of the Kathmandu
valley.
3. Patan Durbar Square
Patan
Durbar Square is the next fabulous destination which is one of the three Durbar
Squares in Kathmandu Valley, incorporated into UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Durbar Square is a wonder of Newar architecture with a tiled floor using red
blocks. There are numerous sanctuaries and symbols in the area and most
meaningful structures are the Golden Temple of 14th century, the octagonal
Krishna sanctuary of 16th century and the Shankar Narayan sanctuary with two
elephants at its passage. The acclaimed Patan Museum displays bronze and copper
statues of gods from both the Buddhist and Hindu conventions.
4. Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Bhaktapur
Durbar Square is another spectacular space which is one of the three Durbar
Squares in Kathmandu Valley, incorporated into UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The
recorded landmark on around displays medieval age culture and convention of
Nepal and this old city is occupied by the indigenous Newar community of huge
gathering. While the attractions comprise of no less than four unmistakable
squares (Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square, Dattatreya Square, and Pottery Square)
the entire domains are casually identified Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
5. Pashupatinath Temple
Pinpointed
on the banks of the holy Bagmati River, Pashupatinath is an exceptionally
sacred Hindu temple erected of two-storied in the 15th century back where you
can glimpse stunning the heavenly men known as “Sadhus” in an extraordinary piece
of clothing. This “extensive Hindu sanctuary domain is a sprawling gathering of
sanctuaries, ashrams, pictures, and engravings raised throughout the hundreds
of years. Vaishnava temple with a Rama sanctuary from the 14th century and the
Guhyeshwari Temple built in the 11th century likewise lies throughout
Pashupatinath.
6. Kopan Monastery Gumba
The
monastery was primarily established by the FPMT’s authors, Lamas Thubten Yeshe
and Thubten Zopa Rinpoche, who bought the property from Nepal’s regal astrologer
and set up around the 19th century. Without any doubt, it is reflecting it’s
identity as Kopan Monastery pursuing the Tibetan influence. Monastery situated
on the top of the hill is a pleasant place where you can investigate and gain
knowledge about Buddhism along this monastery is considered an excellent point
for its books on Buddhist psychology and philosophy.
7. Bouddhanath Stupa
The
most appreciated spot to explore all through Kathmandu valley is “Boudhanath
Stupa” (One among the largest stupas in the planet) which was constructed back
during the 14th century. It is additionally enrolled on the rundown of the
world heritage site as well. The vast Buddha eyes on stupa and the colorful
praying flags creates distinctive eye-catching outline all through stupa.
Amazing belief and Buddhist text declare that Boudhanath stupa dominates the
skyline. From throughout the world, this destination is identified as the
imperative destination for whole Buddhist minions.
8. Royal Botanical Garden
Royal
Botanical Garden established back in the 18th century is a garden dedicated to
the collection, cultivation, and showcase of an extensive variety of plants
displayed with their botanical names along with conservation of birds. It
contains authority for plant collection, and it displays huge desert flora and
fauna, herb gardens, plants from specific parts of the world, et cetera. The
place is interesting and incredible for strolling along with its goal for
instructive presentations, workmanship shows, book rooms, outside dramatic and
melodic exhibitions, and other stimulation.
9. Thamel Street
Displaying
core populace of Newar community Thamel is Kathmandu’s extraordinary hotspot
holding unique boulevards holding narrow streets decorated with colorful
praying flags and completed with international and local restaurants serving
whole assortments of dishes including Nepalese nourishment and liquors with
live music band exhibitions moreover souvenir shops loaded up with Nepal unique
melodic instrument, handcrafted customs, tattoo corners, religious antiques
like singing bowl are magnetic. Additionally, Thamel is a definitive place to
chill out in the city.
10. Garden Of Dreams
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The
delightfully established garden pronounced as “Swapna Baigicha” is recognized
as “Garden of Dreams”. It’s a well-known destination all through the crowded
city for investing time to get out of stress for finding peace in Kathmandu to
visit offers rest and restoration from the worries of the world. It is a
standout amongst the most stunning spots on the planet, holding marble
engraving, lovely wellsprings and lakes, hidden garden and countless moreover.
The garden was worked in the 1920s and has been brought back into life by the
Austrian financed group and still.
Pokhara being the beautiful city of lakes that it holds many
places to visit that will sweep you off your feet with their scenic beauty and
calm atmosphere. As it is the second most important city in Nepal after the
capital city, Kathmandu. But for tourism in Nepal, there is no other city that
is popular as Pokhara. The popularity of this city is reflected in the huge
number of tourists visiting every year. Pokhara houses a variety of places that
confirm the richness of the culture and nature of the country. Situated in the
shadow of some of the most famous Himalayan mountains, Pokhara is beautiful.
Let us help you know Pokhara better through our
list of the “Top 5 Things” you can do in the city
1. A Visit To Tal Barahi Temple
A lake temple in the Kaski
District of Nepal which is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Durga, this temple is
located on a small island in Lake Phewa of Pokhara and contributes as a great
source of spirituality in the Nepalese Hindu population.
Highlights: This most famous Hindu temple in Pokhara has a lot of grace
added by the surrounding lake. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu to
commemorate his boar incarnation in the 18th century. Over the years the temple
has been comprehensively renovated and so the pigeons have decided to make it
their permanent shelter. A must visit not only for the religious mind but also
for a regular tourist alike.
Location: 10 minutes drive from Pokhara, located on an island in the
middle of phew lake, it can be reached by a boat from Barahi ghat.
2.
Visit Begnas Tal/Lake
Pokhara is
the city of lakes and Begnas Tal is another beautiful and serene freshwater
lake in Kaski district of Nepal that changes color depending on the season.
Begnas Lake is the second largest of the eight lakes in Pokhara valley with a
maximum depth of 10 meters. Since most tourists are unaware of this beautiful
lake less, the original beauty is undisturbed. The lake supports irrigation and
fisheries. The water level in the lake is regulated by a dam constructed in
1988 A.D as it fluctuates with season and because of use for irrigation. The
pressure of increasing the human population is forcing the conversion of the
swampy area into land for cultivation.
Location: It takes about 40 minutes by bus from Pokhara to
reach the lake.
Highlights: Boating, fishing, and swimming are some of the
activities you can indulge in, the bonus being surrounding green mountains.
Difficulty
Level: Medium, you can easily try
your hands on boating.
Best time
to visit: October
3.
A Visit To Sarangkot
A small
village that has its own natural beauty situated on the outskirts of the
Pokhara city. While you’re exploring the village, you can also get a glimpse of
the beautiful sunrise that can be seen from the hilltops. And also, get a
chance to view one of the most beautiful Annapurna Himalayan ranges.
Difficulty
Level: Easy.
Best time
to visit: October
4.
A Visit To World Peace Pagoda
Also referred to as “Shanti
Stupa ” which when translated in English is referred to as “World Peace
Pagoda”. Buddhist monks from the Japanese Nipponzan Myohoji order constructed
the stupa. The monument is said to depict the four prominent stages of the Buddha’s
life in four directions: the place that he was born in Lumbini, the place he
became enlightened in Bodhgaya, the place he taught most of his lifetime in
Sarnath, and the place he reached nirvana at KushiNagar.
You can experience the joy
of overlooking the southern shore of Phewa Lake after reaching the top of the
monument and learning about its design to inspire harmony. The shrine except
for being an impressive standpoint provides spectacular views of the Annapurna
range and Pokhara.
Best time
to visit: September to November.
Difficulty
Level: Fairly easy
5.
Boating in Phewa Lake
The second-largest
freshwater lake in the country situated in the Pokhara Valley of Nepal. Many
tourists frequent this place and many of them keep it in their travel list. The
beauty and serenity of the lake know no bounds. As the lake has mirror-like reflections
of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre in its waters. The lake is
managed with the help of a Dam and is fed by a river stream, making it somewhat
a mixture of a man-made and natural freshwater lake.
Holi, also known as Festival of Colors, is one of the most revered and celebrated festivals in Nepal. It usually takes is celebrated on the full moon day in Nepali Fagu month (February to March in Solar Calendar) and lasts for 2 days. This festival was previously held from March 20 to 21, 2019, and will be celebrated on March 9 to 10, 2020. Generally, this festival is in celebration of the victory of good over evil and also the reentering of Spring. The main gist of the beloved “Holi” festival is to throw each other with dry powder and colored water to express one’s sincere blessings and good wishes.
Origin of Holi Festival
Holi festival can be traced back to the ancient time of “Mahabharata”, Indian famous epic. As the legend goes, A King by the name of Hiranyakashipu was so arrogant and vain and fully opposed Lord Vishnu. He was strictly against worshipping the Lord but his son Prince Prahlada was a passionate devotee of Vishnu and openly opposed his father. This enraged Hiranyakashipu and he ordered his daughter Holika to burn the prince(Prahlada) on the full moon night. But with the blessing of Lord Vishnu, no harm came upon the young prince Prahlada while Holika (his sister) was burned into ashes. After the horrific ordeal when the prince walked out of the fire, people sprinkled him with colorful water to express the praise of goodness and hatred of evil.
Traditions and Celebration of Nepal Holi Festival
The festival of color is celebrated differently among the neighboring countries. In Nepal, there is a ceremony of erecting a wooden pole in the capital Kathmandu Durbar Square which marks the start of the celebration of the Holi festival. On this day, Nepali women dress in beautiful Sari with various pujas in hand circle around the pole to pray for the blessings. During the main day of the Holi Festival, the Durbar Square and the surrounding streets turn into a sea of waters, colors, and music. Nepalese and visitors totally indulge in singing, dancing and sprinkling varieties of powders and waters. Everyone’s face is filled with festive joy. Even the air turns to be colorful. At this moment, cameras, mobile phones, and selfie sticks have become the essential tools to record your happy Holi. And you’ll have the chance to see the most prestigious singers performing on the stage. On the eighth day, the festival comes to an end with Holi bonfire.
With the end of Winter season, Nepal welcomes the Spring season. Right after the winter new buds grown in trees and flowers blossom in this season. The most popular trekking season that starts from March till May. Spring season is the second-best time to visit Nepal after Autumn as the temperature is just perfect – not too cold and not too hot. It is also the time for flowers to bloom and the national flower of Nepal – rhododendron sweeps the ascending altitudes with its radiant color and beauty. The plants, wildlife activities, and mountain scenery are striking and the livelihood of the High Mountains is fascinating.
Checkout the list for the top Spring Treks in Nepal:
1. Short Upper Mustang Trek
Upper Mustang is also known as the Last Forbidden Kingdom because It was restricted demilitarized area until 1992 – tourists were not allowed to enter the region. Even today, access is still highly restricted – To enter Upper Mustang, trekkers need a special permit. Mustang’s former kingdom of Lo is a remote and isolated region of the Nepalese Himalayas. Upper Mustang is especially for people who would love to visit the mustang region’s hidden beautiful places. On your visit to Upper Mustang, you will encounter the unique landscapes, picturesque villages, the ancient sky caves and monasteries along with the culture, lifestyle, and heritage that remain unchanged for the centuries to these dates.
Upper Mustang during the spring is just splendid. As the Rhododendrons start to blossom in spring which in return grants you the chance to hike through the beautiful forest of rhododendron in spring. The season of spring brings in warm and stable weather conditions. The clear sky offers great visibility of mountain peaks and landscapes. You will experience temperature ranging from 16-degree Celsius during the day to 8-degree Celsius at night. So, you won’t feel extreme cold during your high altitude trek to Upper Mustang.
Manaslu Circuit Trekking is an ideal trek that holds the blend of wonderful cultural heritage, unparalleled Himalayan vistas, pure Himalayan ecosystem and great walking experience following the ancient salt trading route of the Tiber along the Budi Gandaki river. Since 1992, Manaslu Circuit Trek has been the best alternative trekking to Annapurna Circuit Trek. The trek begins with a drive to Arughat and chases the traverses uphill beside the rushing Budi Gandaki River. The walkthrough uneven gorges sliced between Himachuli Peak 7890m, the Manaslu Circuit Trek most of the time covers wilderness walk. During the month of Spring, the Manaslu circuit trek has colorful blossoms of rhododendrons, local flora, and fauna. With Crystal clear and spectacular mountain views. You can view Mt. Manaslu, Mount Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, Ganesh Himal mountains range, Shringi, Langpo, and Saula. Opportunity to view and witness the wildlife of the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Rara Lake is Nepal’s biggest Lake, located in the Mugu district of the Karnali zone in Nepal. Situated at the altitude of 2,990m above the sea level, the lake is surrounded by the pine, spruce and juniper forest of the Rara National Park. The Rara Lake Trek or trekking to this hidden gem of Nepal, promises unlimited adventure, culture and panoramic geographical landscape, so beautiful and serene that it will make you want to come back to this place again and again. During the month of Spring, the climate is mild and rhododendrons bloom over the mountain paths with colors, the skies are clear and the lake is crystal blue. A two-hour walk over the lake from the tower overlooks the lake. It is a good time and can be visited by taking a flight. It can be reached by drive but the flight is an easily accessible one. You have to hike to explore around Rara.
Situated north of Dhaulagiri, in the rain-shadow of the Himalayas, the Lower Dolpa is a remote trekking destination in Nepal. The Shey-Phoksundo Lake- one of the deepest Himalayan lakes inside the Shey-Phoksundo National Park- that preserves Trans-Himalayan ecosystem, blue sheep, wolves, Himalayan black bear, and exclusive snow leopard and the Tarap Valley- one of the highest human settlement in the world and their Bon PO tradition are some of the major attractions of the Lower Dolpo Trek. Beautiful views of the peaks like Kanjiroba and Dhaulagiri, barren slopes, deep gorges, pristine villages, ancient Buddhist monasteries and high passes like Numa La and Baga La make Lower Dolpa trekking experience more enjoyable and thrilling.
During the spring season, this region offers splendid views of pine, fir and birch forests as well as wildlife such as the elusive snow leopard, rare Himalayan blue sheep, goral, thar, Himalayan black bear, langur, and rhesus monkeys, etc.
TiIicho Lake and Annapurna Circuit Trek, two weeks of a walking journey along the horseshoe-shaped fascinating trail that encircles amazing Annapurna is the world’s most popular trek beyond doubt. It is the most frequented trek in Nepal as well. The trek highlights exceedingly beautiful valleys like Marshayngdi & Kali Gandaki. The cultural encounters in numerous ethnically inhabited villages are the wonders of Nepal’s cultural diversity seen during the trek. The floral and faunal biodiversity of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project is a great sight. The rawness of nature that includes pure cascading waterfalls, the Rocky Mountains, and deep gorges are mesmerizing.
The month ranging from March to May is the spring months in Nepal and is another most popular time of the year for undertaking trekking in any region. The month is full of beautiful wildflowers and splendid views of the snow-capped mountains. The average temperature is around 18-22 Degree Celsius during these months at day time and the temperature can drop to chilling levels.
Maha Shivaratri is a very auspicious and holy day of festivity for Hindus all over the world. During this holy day of Lord Shiva, the followers/pilgrims of the diety are seen swarming many temples of Shiva temples during this festival. The main attraction of the day is the popular Pashupatinath Temple which is quite famous among the Hindu followers.
The festival of the Lord himself is celebrated on the 14th day of the dark fortnight of the Magha month, as per the Hindu lunar calendar. This auspicious and holy day is also famous for raising a person’s spiritual energy as the stars in Northern Hemisphere are at most optimum positions. This festival is celebrated by denoting the overlapping of Shiva and Shakti. Among various beliefs as to why the festival is celebrated in high regard this day is also famous for being the day when Lord Shiva performed the “Tandav”, the cosmic dance.
During the festivity, devotees chant “Om Namah Shivaya” and “Mahamritunjaya” all night praying for light over darkness. As lots of tourists can also be seen enjoying the ambiance with curiosity. Apart from the devotees and the tourists enjoying the environment colorful and naked sadhus can also be seen meditating, posing for photographs and interacting with disciples. A lot can be seen happening during the festivity as special attendance camps are set in the courtyards of the temples. Donations are being collected by the children from passersby for the holy meal. Bonfire can be seen in every corner of the city.
Dudh Kunda Trekking is a uniquely new trek route that has been discovered recently. Sitting on Mt. Numbur’s lap in the Solukhumbu district, the trail for this trek passes through various traditional villages, very unique in their own rights. This trek is not short of an adventure and is also well-suited first-timers and skilled trekkers as well. The literal Nepali translation of Dudh Kunda is milky situated at the base of Nubur Himal which is also known as Shorong Yul Lha, “Protector of Solu Region”. As the special and beautiful Dudh Kunda lake has its own importance for both the Buddhist and Hindu Pilgrims alike. It is believed that if you take a dip in this holy lake, all of one’s sins will be washed away and all one’s wishes will be granted as well!
The trek not only provides one with the splendid views of the world’s tallest mountains but also the equally captivating sight of the mystically reddened rhododendron. And if luck favors one can also get a visit from the mountain leopard, Thars, Pheasants, etc.
As it is not as commercialized and explored as the other trekking routes of this area. There are very few numbers of tourists visit every year. But one cannot come to the conclusion that it is less audacious and gratifying. But recently it is getting the recognition that it deserves. As the route here is mostly off-beaten and the shadows of commercialization have not been cast the area has very few teahouses and lodges. Most part of the trekking endeavor provides the trekking with camping experience. One can expect to be trekking through the classical trek route to Everest Base Camp, crossing the river valleys, slender ridges and lusty hills to the mountains up close.
Away from the most visited trails, camping treks presents a wilderness adventure in both natural and cultural aspect. Untouched by modern civilization, you would witness the remote mountain villages of Nepal.
OUTLINE ITINERARY:
Day 1: Arrival Day 2: Drive to Phaplu – Altitude: 2,413 m Day 3: Trek from Phaplu to Takshindu – Altitude: 2931m Day 4: Trek to Timba Day 5: Trek to Dudhkunda – Altitude: 4600 m Day 6: Trek to Sarsar Beni Day 7: Trek to Phaplu. Day 8: Drive back to Kathmandu
