Adventure seekers and hikers may find Nepal to be a treasure trove of lush green forests, beautiful rivers, and breathtaking mountain circuits. This beautiful nation of hills and mountains makes for an excellent paradise for travelers, adventurers, and explorers looking for great trekking or sightseeing experience.
Therefore, a large fraction of the thousands of people are faced with choosing which trekking destination to explore in Nepal every year.
Although it sounds strange, choosing your favorite Trek may actually be easier done in your home country than in the bustling trekking and tourist areas in Nepal, where dozens of trekking agencies are bound to give you different opinions about what Trek is the perfect one for you. And, if you, too, were in such a conundrum, we’ve got your back.
Sirubari, located away from Pokhara (one of the greatest cities of Nepal), is a beautiful village in the Syangja district. It is inhabited by Gurungs and is at an elevation of 1760 meters; thus, there is no danger of altitude sickness. Additionally, it is a good substitute for the difficult and jagged mountain trekking popular in Nepal.
In this ethnic village, you will experience the friendly and cheerful manner of the inhabitants and a pleasant climate throughout the year that will make you feel at home away from home. You can spend your holidays here whenever you wish. The locals also exhibit great hospitality, and the Sirubari village has a grand view of the Himalayas, including Mount Manaslu, the Dhaulagiri range, Mount Macchapucchare, and the Annapurna range. Its evergreen hills and its beauty will make you feel like you are totally free in nature and will provide the best experience to collect with nature.
When you arrive in Kathmandu, you will be offered a tour that allows you to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the city, including Swoyambhunath, Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. As a way to get away from the hectic pace of city life, our 10-day Sirubari Trek begins with a seven-hour drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. We’ll enjoy the spectacular mountain views and the captivating Fewa Lake during our stay in Pokhara. The bus ride to Sirubari village from Pokhara takes about 6 hours, so if you do not mind spending more time on the road, you might prefer to hire a private vehicle.
In Sirubari village, we will have the opportunity to observe the exotic rural lifestyle of indigenous people who have traditionally and historically lived here for many years, preserving their cultural heritage. It’s an ideal trek for travelers who have a short amount of time to explore the culturally enriched trekking routes. You can trek to Sirubari village during any time of year, but we advise spring and autumn seasons are the best.
There are many monuments in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, showing the excellence of Nepalese art and culture from ancient times. These monuments include the famous Durbar, the Pashupatinath temple, and the Swayambhunath stupa. The number of places to see in Kathmandu is so great that you will not be able to see them all in one day. However, we'll make sure that you don't miss the most popular attractions.
Our departure from Kathmandu is scheduled for early in the morning today. We have two options to choose from, either take a 35-minute flight to Pokhara or take a drive. The drive from Kathmandu would take approximately 6-7 hours. While we recommend the flight, you could stop and sightsee at several beautiful locations during the drive.
Our time will be in our favor if we arrive early at our destination, so we will be able to wander through Pokhara, a paradise-like city. The Fewa Tal offers boaters a chance to enjoy the reflection of Mt. Macchapucchare on the water surface of its pristine waters.
In the early morning, we will have breakfast and drive from Pokhara to Arjunchaupari, where we will begin our short Trek into Sirubari village, which takes about 4 hours. From there, we will climb up to the Gurung settlement. After you arrive at Sirubari village, you will be assigned a home by the local community representatives. The local houses are all constructed of local raw materials, but they are extremely comfortable. The day can be spent with your host family (you can exchange cultures and lifestyles), and the evening can be spent enjoying the cultural programs of the community.
As we begin our second day in Sirubari Village, we will have a great chance to see the local area and the surrounding villages. After having a hearty breakfast, we will begin the day. In the afternoon, we will enjoy the cultural activities.
We will visit Dahare Hill, the highest point in Pokhara, on our third day at Sirubari village after we have breakfast. The highest point of this part of the Himalayas allows us to take pictures of the entire Himalayas, from the easternmost peak, Mt. Manaslu, to the westernmost peak, Mt. Macchapucchare, and between them, the Annapurna range.
After saying goodbye to our host family and returning to Pokhara, we will start our journey with a light breakfast. Once we arrive in Pokhara, we can tour the beautiful city or go on a boat tour in Fewa Lake. Fewa Lake is considered a beautiful lake with peaceful surroundings. On the next day, after we have breakfast, we will return to Kathmandu with the most beautiful memories of our Sirubari Village Homestay Trekking program. Hope to see you soon.
After you’ve enjoyed the thrilling and joyful experience, you can choose whether to visit other beautiful places in Nepal or head back home. No matter what you choose, we hope you have a fantastic time.
We can accommodate group tours for this trip; however, you may also opt for a private tour according to your liking. We can arrange private trips at any time of the year at any date of your choosing. Please let us know what your preferred travel dates are so that we can accommodate you.
After the completion of the Trek, take a rest as you cherish the beautiful moments you encountered during the Trek while on your trip back home. It is certainly deserving of its reputation for its rich culture, amazing views, and the hospitality of the locals that can make a trek to the Sirubari an unforgettable experience.
Finally, When you are ready to start adventures in Nepal, it is time to begin thinking about what to pack. If you are ready to book but aren’t sure when is the best time to trek or what to stay in, Pokhara Info is here for you. You can figure out these queries through our site. We can also be found on Facebook, Instagram, and other social media sites. Hope you have a good time in Nepal, and thank you for visiting!
Nepal is a country with a rich cultural heritage and a long history. When you visit Nepal, you are likely to see many of the country’s famous temples. As a foreigner, there are a lot of options to learn about Hinduism and temples in Nepal and places like Pokhara, Ilam, Chitwan, or Butwal. You could also engage in thrilling trekking adventures or tours while visiting these temples. Nonetheless, you may need a more comprehensive description of the best temples in Nepal to assist you in your trek.
Located in the Western Development Region, Lumbini Zone, Rupandehi District, Butwal is a sub-metropolitan city in Nepal, an urban center for an agglomeration that is rapidly growing. It is the administrative capital of the Lumbini Zone. The growth and development of Butwal make the city a wonderful destination for foreign explorers. Located on the Tilottama River, 161 kilometers south of Pokhara and 265 kilometers west of Kathmandu, the city is nestled in the valley of the Tinau River. The city is named after Batauli Bazaar, one of the oldest neighborhoods in the town on the west bank of the Tinau River.
The town of Butwal is located at the crossroads of two major highways running through Nepal, the Mahendra Highway and the Siddhartha Highway. It is connected to Kathmandu by road and air (via the Siddhrthanagar airport). Nepal’s fastest-growing cities are those that excel in the areas of education, roads, marketing, health and safety, communications, trade, and banking.
Butwal was a loose town in the Lumbini region that served as a trading post bridging the Indian plains with the hilly areas of Lumbini. As a result, Butwal represented a historical link between Nepal and India. However, Butwal became a point of contention during the 1814-16 Gurkha War. During the British East India Company’s rule of Awadh and the Shah Dynasty’s invasion of Terai, the British captured Awadh from its hereditary rulers.
Back then, Butwal was merely a settlement on the bank of the Tilottama River (also known as Tinau) when King Tribhuvan fled to India during the revolution against the Rana dynasty in 1950. With the completion of the Siddhartha Highway in 1968 connecting Sunauli to Pokhara via Butwal, as well as the Mahendra Highway running through all of Nepal’s Terai in 1970, Butwal is one of Nepal’s most urbanized areas.
While you visit Nepal, visiting this city full of culture and beautiful location is a must. Butwal has several places worth visiting. They are:
Devdaha, Lord Gautam Buddha’s mother’s home, located 13 kilometers east of Butwal, is Nepal’s most historically significant and attractive sacred site. It offers a place of spectacular natural beauty with a clean environment.
Jitgadhi consists of the gorgeous Narayan temples, which were established during the Angol-Nepal war (1864 B.S.). Furthermore, Hanuman temples, Shivalayas of Hanumagngadhi, Jalabinayak Mahadev temples, Siddababa temples, Nuwakot, and others are popular butwal tourist attractions.
Manimukunda Sen Park is remarkable from both a natural and archaeological viewpoint that the winter home of the Palpali Sen clan exists. It is here that one can admire the magnificent palace and royal residence of Manimukunda Sen, an ancient Palpali king with six huge chambers, administrative functions, and picturesque grandeur of Butwal, Siddharthanagar, and other neighboring villages of Rupandehi district.
In 1991, the archaeological department of His Majesty’s Government initiated a program to manage the park. However, Butwal municipality formed the Manimukunda Sen Park Conservation Council to implement the park’s development program and make it a tourist attraction.
Historically, this area is meaningful to the Gurung people because Gurung ancestors are buried here. The hill provides views on both sides of the city and divides the city into two sections.
When there is a drought, people flock to this river to swim and collect water. From here, you can even see the holy Manakamana Temple.
In this area, there are secondary schools, rice and oil mills, temples, and a great deal of natural beauty. In the town’s center is a temple dedicated to Goddess Durga as well as a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva (Parmeshower Bolbam Dham), which is known to have received blessings from Lord Shiva Shankar.
The Sainamaina outdoor museum has a fascinating history, archaeological site, and eco-tourism perspective. It is located in the Samgrama site, which was one of the Shakya Raj’s Grama villages in Butwal. Awadh’s kingdom was at the mercy of the British when Begum Hazrat Mahal of Awadh brought her warriors and porters to this area in response to the disruption caused by the British. So it became known as Saina Maina. It is an amazing site full of old ruins and antiquities, such as statues of dancing saints, ruins of a castle, and a well.
The weather in Sainamaina is moderate and warm most of the year. It can range from 20 degree celsius to 27 degree celsius during summer. The temperature can drop to an average of 12 degrees in winter.
On the hills surrounding Butwal Municipality, there is a temple named Siddha Baba Temple. Devotees believe that if they bring pigeons to the temple, he will grant their wishes. Huge crowds of worshippers flock to this temple on Saturdays. Thus, there are several microbus services available on Saturday.
Global Peace Park in Butwal is a relatively new place that is also described as a symbol of peace. It attracts many international celebrities, tourists, and models due to its inherent beauty and perfection. While visiting Butwal, Global Peace Park is a must.
In addition to its attractive and gorgeous animals, Banbatika Forest Resort has lots of decorative elements as well. This is a nice place to have a picnic and celebrate many different occasions. Banbatika is a wonderful tourist destination with an assortment of wildlife, including anacondas, white mice, ostriches, deer, leopards, and rabbits, among others.
Located on the city’s outskirts, the recently built Muktidham temple at Nayagoan is reminiscent of Muktinath’s Vintage Temple in Mustang.
In addition to the Industrial Region, there is the Charange district, known for its natural beauty, just a few meters from the Butwal gate (the gate through which Butwal City begins). Furthermore, some other places that will impress you while in Butwal are mentioned below.
There are around 100 buses that travel from Butwal to Kathmandu, as well as buses that travel to Pokhara, Dang, and other important cities. The most common mode of transportation is buses. Until 2003, most of the fleet was made up of old, large buses, but operators have introduced newer, smaller microbuses since then. People are transported to hilly areas by older Jeeps.
Within the city, Short-distance urban transportation is provided by Rickshaws. Throughout the city, motorcycles are a common mode of transportation. The number of registered motorcycles in 2008 increased dramatically from 1,200 in 1999. Thus, transportation is easily accessible in Butwal.
After you’ve enjoyed the thrilling and joyful experience, you can choose whether to visit other beautiful places in Nepal or head back home. No matter what you choose, we hope you have a fantastic time.
We can accommodate group tours for this trip; however, you may also opt for a private tour according to your liking. We can arrange private trips at any time of the year at any date of your choosing. Please let us know.
Finally, when you decide to visit the gorgeous city, hope you have a great time. Furthermore, you can count on hospitality as well as the beauty of the city to impress you as you explore Butwal. We here at Pokhara Info can arrange for a tour of Butwal city if you are interested.
This beautiful nation of hills and mountains makes for an excellent paradise for travelers, adventurers, and explorers looking for great trekking or sightseeing experience. With its stunning hills and mountains, a country like this makes a fantastic trekking or sightseeing destination for adventurers, travelers, and explorers. One of the short hiking routes in Nepal, the Langtang trek offers fantastic views from a lowland jungle with banana trees and monkeys to mountains and glaciers above the valley floor. However, Short doesn’t necessarily mean easy. The Trek starts off quite challenging, with many long and steep climbs that one would expect in a trek in Nepal. Despite that, the thrill and beauty of Nepal you get to experience during this Trek can rarely be matched by any other place in the world.
Langtang is 120km north of Kathmandu, on the border with China; it runs through the areas of Nepal that were most affected by the earthquake. As you trek along Langtang’s ridge, you’ll pass through stunning forests, yak pastures, and alpine meadows. At the end of the Trek, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of vast valleys.
In the Langtang Valley, you will find the most breathtaking landscapes, authentic culture, and heartwarming hospitality that will make your trip a memorable one. The valley is only an hour or so from Kathmandu and is one of Nepal’s most lovely regions.
Although the Langtang Mountain trek is not the most popular Trek, like Everest Base Camp Trek or Annapurna Base Camp Trek, it provides travelers with a sense of adventure and thrill that these other treks may not provide. On top of that, Views of the Himalayas, Langtang valley, and beyond Tibet can be seen from Kyanjin Ri, a destination on the Trek.
The tallest peak on the Langtang Himalayan circuit is the Langtang Lirung peak at an altitude of 7,234 meters. However, the highest point on our Trek is on Kyanjin Gompa at an elevation of 3,800 meters. This might not be much for frequent trekkers, but it still is quite an elevation for newcomers. Therefore, people with lung diseases should avoid or take precautions before engaging in such activities due to the difficulty of adapting to such a high altitude. In addition, people might experience altitude sickness when they are at such elevated altitudes.
The Trek can be easy to moderately difficult depending upon your liking of hills and off-road paths. The best time to engage in these treks would be during the transitional seasons from March to June and September to November. However, the cold can be a big factor during the journey.
You’ll need a TIMS card for the Langtang trek, as well as a national park permit, which costs around NPR 5000 or around US$40 per person. TIMS cards can be obtained from the Tourism Board Office in Kathmandu, located at Pradarshani Marg, Bhrikutimandap.
Accommodations and facilities
The trekkers have to spend nearly all of their time in small tea houses along the Langtang route. The services and facilities offered in such places are quite basic; however, the hospitality from the locals is excellent.
Completing the whole Langtang Trek might take up to 5 days to 10 days, depending upon your pace during the Trek. Initially, you need to acquire a Nepali visa if you’re not from Nepal and get to Kathmandu. When in Kathmandu, you need to either book a private vehicle or ride the local bus that’ll take you to Syabrubesi.
From Lama Hotel, the trail continues climbing through the forest with occasional glimpses of Mount Langtang Lirung between the trees on the trail. The path continues for five to six hours and passes through Ghoda Tabela, a small settlement with few livestock and remnants of the 2015 earthquake in Nepal. Finally, after reaching Mundu, you get to rest there for the night.
From Mundu, the trail ascends through yak pastures, and the views widen as the valley opens up further. Finally, after crossing small streams and moraines, it leads to the settlement of Kyangjin. At more than 3,800 meters, Kyangjin is the highest point of the Trek unless you decide to climb one of the peaks of Langtang. So, you need to take a rest day and enjoy and adapt to the elevation.
On the fourth day, you can choose whether to rest and enjoy the Kyangjin hospitality or explore some more. The monastery and cheese factory are both worth visiting, as are the ice faces and tumbling glaciers of Langtang Lirung or the ascent of Kyangjin Ri right behind the village.
If you return to Kyangjin from the main trailhead, you will retrace the path you just took up the valley, following the Langtang Khola to Mundu village and on to Ghora Tabela. The return hike will be shorter than the ascent. After lunch, continue down the steep slope to Lama Hotel.
The hike back from Lama Hotel is fairly simple. While enjoying the quiet forests and hills, you can retract your steps back toward Syabru Besi. Although if you should take a detour from Rimche to Syabru Besi via Sherpa Gaon if you're feeling fit. The journey will take longer, but it'll surely be worth it.
If you have more time, you should consider adding the nearby Tamang Heritage Trail to the tour, which offers another 4-6 days of hiking and offers an inside look into the ethnic Tamang people.
The difficulty of the Trek
Despite the Langtang trek being shorter than most trekking tours in Nepal, the difficulty is not a walk in the park. The steep path and cold weather can make it difficult for inexperienced travelers. If unsure, a trekking guide can be hired for a better experience. Additionally, getting traveling insurance before embarking on the Trek can be a good safety blanket.
After you’ve enjoyed the thrilling and joyful experience, you can choose whether to visit other beautiful places in Nepal or head back home. No matter what you choose, we hope you have a fantastic time.
We can accommodate group tours for this trip; however, you may also opt for a private tour according to your liking. We can arrange private trips at any time of the year at any date of your choosing. Please let us know what your preferred travel dates are so that we can accommodate you.
Finally, after the completion of the Trek, take good rest as you cherish the beautiful moments you experienced during the Trek while on your trip back home. This Trek is certainly deserving of its reputation for its rich cultural legacy, amazing views, and the hospitality of the locals that can make a trek to Langtang an unforgettable experience for you and your friends.
Historically, Nepal has been heavily shaped by two of its neighbors, India and China, due to its geographical location. This region has attracted many settlers over the centuries, resulting in a strong diversity of cultures. Nepal is today an increasingly popular destination for tourists, mountaineers, and spiritual seekers. Have a wonderful time if you decide to travel to Nepal as well.
Here at Pokhara Info, we work towards making the best out of your travel to Nepal. Our classic tour of Nepal combines the tours of three of the most popular cities in Nepal: Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan, in addition to a few nearby attractions.
With the exception of India, you require a Nepalese visa in order to get to Nepal. However, it’s fairly easy to get a visa when you arrive in Kathmandu or from a Nepalese Embassy in your country. As you fly into Kathmandu, you’ll see stunning views of the city, the Himalayas, and terraced fields below.
We’ll have a representative greet you as you exit customs and help you navigate Kathmandu’s narrow, winding streets on your way to Nagarkot, in the hills northeast of Kathmandu, one hour away. If you decide to hike the 2-3 hours to Nagarkot instead of driving, your luggage will be waiting at the hotel in the village. After a long flight, a moderate hike through villages and farm fields allows you to stretch your legs with beautiful views of the surrounding valleys.
Having a good breakfast at the start of the day will fuel you for the trip to Bhaktapur, which is about an hour or so from Nagarkot. After witnessing the gorgeous sunrise from Nagarkot, you can either drive to Bhaktapur within an hour or hike there (4 hours).
During the hike, visitors pass through Changu Narayan, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kathmandu Valley. The temple in Changu Narayan is one of the least visited among such sites in the valley, making it a special place to visit. Located in Nepal, this ancient temple is believed to date back to the 13th century.
The medieval Newari city of Bhaktapur was severely damaged by the 2015 earthquake, but many of its magnificent buildings are still standing, including the tallest temple in Kathmandu Valley and the five-story Nyatapola Temple. Many of the town’s squares are used to dry pottery, which is a product of the fine Newari crafts.
After exploring Bhaktapur’s temples and courtyards, you’ll travel to Patan, about an hour away. If you’re looking for souvenirs, Patan is the best place in the Kathmandu Valley for you to do so. Similar to Bhaktapur, the town is full of traditional Newari craftspeople, so there are shops that sell Buddhist thangkas, metal statues, jewelry of all kinds, and copper and brass cookware.
While Patan doesn’t have as many hotels as central Kathmandu, the number is growing at a rapid pace, but that’s to the discerning traveler’s advantage. Several local heritage buildings have been converted into beautiful boutique guesthouses.
As you wake up the next morning, you will depart for the famous Terai region of Nepal, Chitwan National Park, where the terrain and culture are totally different from Kathmandu and the Himalayas.
‘Terai’ refers to the huge plains in Nepal’s south, which are the northernmost extension of the great Gangetic plains of India. These plains have been won and lost in decades of conflict and are a mixture of Indian and Nepali characteristics in terms of people and traditions. As soon as you arrive at the airport in Chitwan, a representative from your lodge will pick you up, and you will be at the lodge in time for lunch unless you choose an afternoon flight. Furthermore, a briefing on the activities is available to you for the afternoon and the next day.
You may participate in a number of activities available in Chitwan, or you may choose to relax and explore on your own. With a full day of jungle safari activities, you can spend time with Nepal’s majestic elephants and search for wildlife in the dense jungles or go on a boat safari on the river to see wildlife and birdlife along the banks of the river.
There are a variety of animals in Chitwan, including the greater one-horned rhinoceros, spotted deer, hog deer, sambar deer, and barking deer, as well as a large variety of birds. In addition, there is always the possibility of seeing a leopard, sloth bear, or Royal Bengal tiger. Tiger sightings have become more frequent in recent years, despite the rarity of spotting a tiger these days.
You leave Chitwan after breakfast and drive about 3-4 hours to Lumbini. Lumbini is a Buddhist pilgrimage site near the Indian border in Nepal’s Kapilavastu district, where Queen Mayadevi is said to have given birth to Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha.
Lumbini is one of four pilgrimage sites that sprouted up in places pivotal to the life of the Buddha, the other three being Bodhgaya, Sarnath, and Kushinagar. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997. In Lumbini, you will find ancient ruins of ancient monasteries, a sacred Bodhi tree, a bathing pond, a sacred Asokan pillar, and the Mayadevi temple, which is the exact site of Buddha’s birth.
The site is a popular place for pilgrims from around the world to meditate and chant in the mornings and evenings. Aside from the Crane Sanctuary, Lumbini also boasts the Eurasian Wigeon Migration and the Booted Eagle Migration. Binoculars are a must for catching a glimpse of the birds such as eagles, harriers, and grebes.
You will have time to enjoy the sunrise and explore Lumbini before being taken to Bhairawa airport for your flight to Pokhara. When you arrive in Pokhara, you will be taken to the hotel by private car.
You have the rest of the day to relax or enjoy a variety of activities in Pokhara. You might want to check out the cafes and restaurants, go shopping, or even try something more adventurous, like paragliding and mountain biking. On the next day, you can choose to indulge in numerous activities available in Pokhara, such as boating, lake seeing, picnics, or trekkings. Floating on the blue waters of Lake Phewa with views of the Himalayas is an unforgettable experience that you will not forget. You should also explore Mahendra Caves and Chamero Gufa; otherwise, you might miss out on some ecological wonders.
The entirety of the tour can last from seven days to twelve days. However, if you really love any of the locations mentioned above, you can spend a few more days there according to your wish.
After you’ve enjoyed the thrilling and joyful experience, you can choose whether to visit other beautiful places in Nepal or head back home. No matter what you choose, we hope you have a fantastic time.
We can accommodate group tours for this trip; however, you may also opt for a private tour according to your liking. We can arrange private trips at any time of the year at any date of your choosing. Please let us know what your preferred travel dates are so that we can accommodate you.
Finally, we will transfer you to Pokhara’s domestic airport after breakfast for your flight back home to Kathmandu. Furthermore, if you are flying back home from Kathmandu today, please schedule your flight to depart no earlier than 11 am to ensure you’ll have enough time to catch your flight.
With Nepal Experience Tour provided by Pokhara Info, travelers can get a glimpse of Nepal in an enjoyable and memorable way.
Nestled among the peaks of the high Himalayas with plenty of natural beauty and colorful history, Nepal offers a fascinating experience. It leads you through historical monuments, architecture, and a stunning view of the Himalayas. Another reason to take this tour is the chance to explore verdant forests teeming with wildlife.
During the tour, we will visit most of Nepal’s UNESCO world heritage sites, including Buddhist and Hindu pilgrimage sites. Lumbini is a Buddhist pilgrimage site, and Boudhanath is a Hindu pilgrimage site too.
In addition to Pashupatinath and other temples, Chitwan national park showcases a different side of Nepal. It is known for its wildlife and flora. Pokhara is still to be explored, as there are many things to do in Pokhara. Sarangkot offers the best views of Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna massif.
During the tour, you will be able to discover Kathmandu’s diverse mix of cultures and Buddhist and Hindu shrines. You will also visit Patan and Bhaktapur, two medieval towns in Nepal’s Himalayan range, and pass through tropical and subtropical forests.
Furthermore, Relax in this laid-back town on the shores of Phewa Lake. Travel through hidden villages and towns of Palpa to Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha. Take in the sunrise or sunset at Nargakot – a hill station near Kathmandu.
Itinerary for the Tour
The second day would be a perfect day to visit Pashupatinath (a Hindu shrine where cremations are held on the river bank), followed by Boudhanath (where Tibetan pilgrims come to meditate with their prayer wheels). They are two of the biggest religious sites within Kathmandu as well as Nepal at large.
Kathmandu's ancient royal capital (known as Basantapur Durbar Square) and Swayambhunath (also known as Monkey Temple) are both Buddhist temples (which are quite popular in Kathmandu). We can make a great trip there and, in the late afternoon, visiting the town of Kirtipur would be ideal, which dates from the 9th century.
In the early morning, visit the Buddhist Posse at Patan, the ancient capital and city of golden roofs. You'll surely find the golden temple quite fascinating. In the afternoon, we visit the traditional village of Newar, surrounded by paddies, and Khokana, which is famous for its mustard oil, and observe the farmers working hard during the farming season.
Approximately 5 hours of drive from Kathmandu, by private car, we can reach Chitwan and, consequently, Chitwan National Park, home to the most famous wildlife and flora in Asia. Additionally, you can visit the ethnic group of Tharu to discover their everyday lives and culture.
On this day, you will wake up for an Elephant Safari to explore the jungle, where many animals can be seen, such as a one-horned rhinoceros, two kinds of monkeys, deer, crocodiles, and if you are lucky, you may see a tiger. After lunch, we set off on a traditional canoe trip on the Rapti River in search of crocodiles and waterfowl. Afterward, in the evening, witness a performance of Tharu cultural dance.
We will wake up at 5 am to observe birds (with a guide). After breakfast, we will drive to Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, one of the four most important Buddhist sites on earth. Our next stop is Maya Devi's temple, Asoka's column, the sacred pool Maya Devi bathed for her son, and the monasteries.
A five-hour drive to Tansen, in the Palpa district, will give you the opportunity to explore the city and the old palace dating back to the 17th century. Palpa was once the ancient capital of the kingdom of the Magar people.
The trip to Pokhara takes you along the banks of the Narayani River through the magnificent scenery of Nepal's hills. Pokhara is the second largest city in Nepal and features an excellent view of the Annapurna Range.
Ascend about 1590m to Sarankot in the early morning for a spectacular view of the sunrise, and the Himalayas in the distance, including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machhapuchare (Fishtail Mountain). After a visit to the International Mountain Museum and a boat ride on Phewa Lake, take the afternoon trip to David's fall before visiting the Tibetan refugee camp.
We will begin the day by driving to Bimalnagar, the largest cave in Asia, and discover a Newar authentic village before climbing Bandipur, an old city from the 19th century, to the top of a hill. There, visit the city's temples and take a panoramic view of the Himalayas.
Afterward, depart for Gorkha by car. There you will discover the ancient palace of Gorkha, which was built around three hundred years ago on a hilltop by the Shah Dynasty. There, view the stunning mountains from the cave of Guru Gorkhanath, a mausoleum built by King Ram Shah. The temple of Kali, built by King Ram Shah, is situated behind the palace.
Afterward, we drive to Kathmandu, a stunning sight that becomes even more spectacular as we gaze at the Himalayan peaks. Later, we visit Basantapur Durbar Square, the ancient royal capital of Kathmandu.
Start your day with a morning visit to the temple Dakshin Kali "the goddess of blood," one of the most important sites for animal sacrifices, where thousands of Nepali people sacrifice animals every Tuesday and Saturday. After that, we will drive to Pharping, one of the places where Padmasambhava's "Guru Rimpoche" was made to meditate in the caves. Guru Rimpoche was the founder of Tibetan Buddhism during the 6th century. In the afternoon, we drive through peasant villages of the valley and lush forests until we reach Nagarkot, with splendid views of the Himalayas.
Our early morning starts with a beautiful sunrise view of the surrounding mountains, forests, and woods. After sunrise, we drive back to Kathmandu. We also visit Bhaktapur en route. The old town of Bhaktapur is divided into 24 traditional localities. In addition to its name, 'city of devotees,' it has greatly influenced religion, culture, and Tantrism in Nepal. A visit to the stunning Bhaktapur durbar square is a highlight of the day for its unique structure and rich cultural heritage. We will spend the night in Kathmandu and finally conclude our tour.
After you’ve enjoyed the thrilling and joyful experience, you can choose whether to visit other beautiful places in Nepal or head back home. No matter what you choose, we hope you have a fantastic time.
We can accommodate group tours for this trip; however, you may also opt for a private tour according to your liking. We can arrange private trips at any time of the year at any date of your choosing. Please let us know what your preferred travel dates are so that we can accommodate you.
Furthermore, When you are ready to start your Nepal trekking adventure, it is time to begin thinking about what to pack. If you are ready to book but aren’t sure when is the best time to trek or what to stay in, Pokhara Info has got you covered. You can figure out these queries through our site. We can also be found on Facebook, Instagram, and other social media sites. Hope you have a good time in Nepal and thank you for visiting
As a cultural and artistic destination that is in close proximity to the Himalayas, Kathmandu has attracted tourists since the 1960s. The city’s intoxicating mixture of art and culture makes it an obvious choice. In the heart of Kathmandu’s old city, you can stroll through Old Town’s narrow, winding streets accompanied by your guide as you try steamed momos and see handicrafts while admiring Durbar Square’s distinctive architecture.
The Kathmandu and Lumbini Tours consolidate a five-day journey covering the iconic sights of Kathmandu and the sacred sites of Lumbini. A journey through Nepal’s major cultural sites provides travelers with the chance to observe the outstanding arts adorning the monuments, ultimately taking them to the serene ambiance of Lumbini. Overall, this is a tour that lets travelers immerse themselves in some of Nepal’s most beautiful landmarks.
As part of the Kathmandu and Lumbini Tours, you will visit the historical and cultural sites of Kathmandu. This includes the Pashupatinath temple, considered a sacred site for Hindu devotees. In addition to visiting Boudhanath stupa and Swayambhunath stupa, the tour includes touring Boudhanath stupa and Swayambhu stupa. For Buddhists, Boudhanath is holy, while Swayambhu is both holy and divine.
In addition to visiting religious shrines, the tour also includes a visit to Kathmandu Durbar Square. The square is studded with small temples and huge palaces, including a living goddess, Kumari. Following a fascinating tour of the world’s heritage sites in Kathmandu, we continue to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Gautam Buddha, which is a sacred shrine for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jain pilgrims.
In addition to its religious significance, Lumbini boasts a number of beautiful monasteries and gumbas built by various Buddhist nations around the world. This holistic location is peaceful and tranquil, despite its constant bustle of pilgrims. During this short tour, you’ll witness a Maya Devi temple, a garden, an Ashoka pillar, and several beautiful monasteries. Overall, this tour provides the opportunity for you to experience and admire the fabulous historical creations of Nepal.
All year round is the best time for Kathmandu and Lumbini tours. Anyone can visit at any time of the year to enjoy the beauty accumulated at the historical sites in Nepal. This tour can, therefore, be undertaken throughout the year. The summer/monsoon season may be a challenge due to hot climatic conditions. However, this isn’t unbearable. In addition, visits to Kathmandu and Lumbini can be made in any season.
Pokhara Info offers several other short tours for travelers interested in quick gateways. We offer a five-day Kathmandu and Pokhara tour, which includes sightseeing in both the charming Lakeside city of Pokhara and the historical monuments of Kathmandu. We also offer a four-day Discover Kathmandu and Nagarkot tour, which includes a visit to the outskirts of Kathmandu. We can also tailor-make your trip. Share your ideas with our specialists, and they will help you customize your itinerary according to your schedule, budget, interest, and activities.
Our tour today covers the following sites listed by UNESCO:
Pashupatinath temple: It is one of the most important Hindu temples in the world, and the temple honors Lord Shiva. It is surrounded by dozens of temples, with each corner filled with Sadhus, the most prominent followers of Lord Shiva. Additionally, this is the place where Hindu rituals and customs are performed for cremating departed loved ones.
Boudhanath Stupa: Next, we would like to visit the Boudhanath stupa, which is the largest dome-shaped stupa in the world. The stupa has a unique Mandala design, which is equally impressive and unique. Buddhist pilgrims and visitors hunting for a place to unwind are constantly reverberating through the area, as are several gompas in the area.
Kathmandu Durbar Square: The next stop is Kathmandu Durbar Square. The palace is enormous and surrounded by wonderful temples. Travelers can visit temples and museums for a comprehensive understanding of the heritage sites. It is also home to several monuments, shires, and stupas illustrating centuries-old histories, as well as the living goddess Kumari; the palace is one of the finest examples of Nepalese architecture and Nepalese art.
Swayambhunath Stupa: We will end our tour at the Swayambhunath stupa, an ancient religious structure that overlooks Kathmandu from a hilltop. Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims share a common ground at stupas, so both places of pilgrimage honor both faiths through their temples and stupas.
As part of the itinerary, we will also visit Patan Durbar Square if we have some time left. Both Patan and Kathmandu possess ancient temples and buildings from the 15th century. Additionally, the pillars, windows, doors, and stone sculptures on the buildings are carved from wood and stone.
After a tiring day of touring, we spend the night at a 5-star hotel in Kathmandu.
On this day, we will fly to Bhairahawa to see the birthplace of Lord Gautam Buddha. The flight will last about 30 to 45 minutes, and it will be scenic as well. Once we've arrived in Bhairahawa, we'll check into the hotel and rest for a bit, and then we'll continue with the tour. We will also visit other monuments and temples honoring Buddha after visiting the Maya Devi temple, where Buddha was born.
There are many temples, monasteries, and museums within the holy site, including the Lumbini International Research Institute, so we will visit them as well. Besides temples and monasteries, we will also see the world peace pagoda and the Ashoka pillar. After a long day of sightseeing, we spent the night at a 5-star hotel in Lumbini.
Upon returning to Kathmandu, spend the remainder of the day as you wish, whether it is shopping or just wandering the city's streets. "Farewell" dinner at a typical Nepali restaurant will be served in the evening. Consequently, the tour comes to a cheerful end.
After you’ve enjoyed the thrilling and joyful experience, you can choose whether to visit other beautiful places in Nepal or head back home. No matter what you choose, we hope you have a fantastic time.
We can accommodate group tours for this trip; however, you may also opt for a private tour according to your liking. We can arrange private trips at any time of the year at any date of your choosing. Please let us know what your preferred travel dates are so that we can accommodate you.
Finally, When you are ready to start adventures in Nepal, it is time to begin thinking about what to pack. If you are ready to book but aren’t sure when is the best time to trek or what to stay in, Pokhara Info has got you covered. You can figure out these queries through our site. We can also be found on Facebook and Instagram, and other social media sites. Hope you have a good time in Nepal, and thank you for visiting!
This beautiful country, home to countless beautiful destinations and natural beauty, contains everything an explorer could possibly imagine on his/her dream vacation. In addition to the many rivers, gorgeous valleys, and mesmerizing mountains, some of the beautiful lakes in the western part of Nepal contain some underrated places every frequent traveler would dream of seeing.
Having visited over 50 attractions in Nepal, what I discovered after visiting the Shey Phoksundo lake is how underrated it is out of all the natural wonders of Nepal. The Phoksundo Lake is sacred to Bon-Po followers, making it ideal for combining culture and nature. Furthermore, Trekking through the Himalayan forests and traditional Tibetan villages with minimal high-altitude passes makes this trek relatively easy.
The following tips will help you complete the Shey Phoksundo trek and help you along your journey to one of the best trekking experiences. While doing so, I, too, will get to relive the crazy experience and remember how beautiful Phoksundo is again.
Phoksundo Lake shimmers due to the reflecting backdrop provided by Kanjirowa massif. It also offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. Located in Shey Phoksundo national park, Phoksundo Lake is of primary natural importance. It is a habitat for a wide variety of fauna and flora. Phoksundo Lake Trek is suitable for those people who study botanical science and natural herbs because Shey Phoksundo National Park is quite popular for its wide array of medicinal herbs.
Among Nepal’s largest and most magnificent freshwater lakes, Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek is a quick and relatively easy trip lasting from five to ten days, but it can be longer or shorter depending on how much walking you wish to do each day. Located in the district of Dolpa or Dolpo, the region around Phoksundo primarily consists of Dolpo or the people from the Bon community, people who follow Tibetian Buddhism.
Trekking in the Shey Phoksundo Lake area is best suited during moderate weather of spring and autumn. This allows for clear hikes without any rain or extreme cold and snowfall.
In spite of Shey Phoksundo’s altitude, it is not a snowy region. However, it can get extremely cold depending on the weather. Therefore, you should prepare accordingly.
You will need to walk constantly for many days in rough terrains and cold climates. Therefore, you will need to bring along the following materials.
Furthermore, Shey Phoksundo lies at an altitude of 3,589 meters. A trip to such an extreme elevation may result in altitude sickness or even breathlessness, so those with serious health problems, lung issues, or similar conditions should avoid the trip. Likewise, you need to take all the necessary precautions prior to embarking on this journey.
The items listed above are ideal for the expedition mentioned above, though not all of them are necessary. For example, the Shey Phoksundo trek is popular with frequent travelers, so many hotels and homestays supply these items at a higher rate than usual.
In order to begin the journey, foreign visitors must obtain a Nepalese visa and get to the capital city, Kathmandu. If you are already in Nepal, you must fly or take another mode of transportation to Nepalgunj, the gateway to the far-west.
From Nepalgunj, you can reach Juphal to begin the trek. For a healthy individual, the trek might take between five to fifteen days, depending on the pace and activities along the way. In the evening, you can choose to stay in one of the homestay facilities located in the area.
From Dunai, you need to start hiking upward towards Thulo Bheri Valley and walk to Kalagauda. Further along the way, you'll pass Roop Ghar while following the Bheri River's southern bank. Finally, when you reach Dunai at an altitude of 2145 meters, you better take your rest for the day there.
Start your third day of the trek by walking through the streets of Dunai towards Sunlight village. While climbing to get to Kageni from Sunlight, you'll learn to walk through rocky paths until reaching Shyanta. This path consists of green vegetation and gorgeous waterfalls. Finally, just half-hour away from Santa, you'll reach Chhepka to rest for the day.
On day four, you need to hike through the forest to reach Ringmo village. Further along, the way, you can stop by one of the highest waterfalls in Nepal, the Jharana, with a view of Phoksundo Lake. In Ringmo village, you'll experience Tibetan culture while exploring Phoksundo Lake and the holy land of the Bonpo.
On this day, you will trek through the upper parts of the Phoksundo River. As you continue, you should follow the northern trails towards Phoksundo Lake. After a few stretches, when you view the beautiful meadows after passing Phoksundo Lake. This beautiful meadow contains the Tibetan Village of RIngmo, the Bon village.
On this day, you will visit Ringmo village, which is located near Phoksundo Lake, and Tshowa Gompa, an ancient Buddhist monastery perched atop a ridge above the lake. While descending, you can enjoy the wonderful, mesmerizing view of Phoksundo Lake. Moreover, the lake area is surrounded by many beautiful glaciers.
You will trek back to Chhepka today. Follow the stream that originates from the lake as you head towards Sulighad. You will pass through Renji, an ancient village. Eventually, you'll reach Chhepka before the end of the day. Though, it might take 6 to 8 hours of walking.
You can spend your last day on the trek doing what you love, enjoying the luscious green vegetation on the trail down to Juphal village. After about 6 hours, you will finally reach Juphal, where you can plan your return home peacefully in a beautiful hotel.
After you’ve enjoyed the thrilling and joyful experience, you can choose whether to visit other beautiful places in Nepal or head back home. No matter what you choose, we hope you have a fantastic time.
We can accommodate group tours for this trip; however, you may also opt for a private tour according to your liking. We can arrange private trips at any time of the year at any date of your choosing. Please let us know what your preferred travel dates are so that we can accommodate you.
Finally, we hope that this magical Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek fulfills your dreams! A short trek to Phoksundo Lake allows you to explore the Dolpo region within a few days. Next, a flight out of Kathmandu takes you to Nepalgunj, one of the nicest towns bordering India. Then you fly on to Juphal by another plane, where your journey really begins.
Besides wandering around the lake and spending time, you also enjoy the beauty of Mount Kanjirowa and Phoksundo Lake. After all, you can retrace your steps through the same route to Kathmandu after you have appreciated them enough.
Adventure seekers and hikers may find Nepal to be a treasure trove of lush green forests, beautiful rivers, and breathtaking mountain circuits. This beautiful nation of hills and mountains makes for an excellent paradise for travelers, adventurers, and explorers looking for great trekking or sightseeing experience.
Furthermore, for people looking for a quality trekking experience in Nepal, an underrated place to visit is Upper Mustang. Trekking up Upper Mustang is the only way to experience the mysterious world of Mustang, also known as Lo. Once forbidden by the outside world for hundreds of years, the region of upper Mustang and the people have evolved its unique culture and traditions into a fascinating spectacle for tourists despite the region’s isolation.
Mustang-also called Upper Mustang-is an arid river valley situated on the northern side of the Annapurna Circuit. Though Mustang is in Nepal, it is similar to Tibetan stances to Nepali, both culturally and geographically. So, get ready to experience mixed Tibetan traditions while in Nepali Places.
The Trek to the Upper Mustang allows you to experience the wilderness of Lo Manthang with the Astounding Blend of Buddhism Religion. At the same time, the staggering views of Mt. Nilgiri, Mt. Hiunchuli, Mt. Machhapuchre, and Mt Annapurna will surely take your breath away.
In addition to the amazingly beautiful scenes of Annapurna near the Upper Mustang region of Nepal, you will also visit Pokhara, a delightful city in the heart of the Himalayas-with an excellent scenic lake and location trip to and from Jomsom.
Mustang is widely famous throughout Nepal for being a difficult, cold yet beautiful place. Furthermore, the region is a vast expanse of dry land, and yet it is full of life and beauty. It receives the least rainfall of all Nepalese regions, making it one of the driest places in the country.
In order to graciously navigate through the beautiful locations throughout the upper mustang trek, necessary preparations should be made accordingly. In addition, the highest point of the Trek is located at an altitude of 4,010 meters. Even though it might not be much for frequent trekkers, it can still be quite an elevation for first-time trekkers. Due to the difficulty in adapting to such a high altitude, people with lung disease should avoid or take precautions before attempting such activities. Furthermore, people whose bodies are at such elevated altitudes may experience altitude sickness. However, the length and difficulty of the Trek can depend on how comfortable you are with hills and off-road paths.
Many people visit Mustang to enjoy the snow, visit the Muktinath temple and trek through the Upper Mustang area. The cold temperature in the region can be a big factor while on the Trek. So, we suggest you bring along the following things with you.
However, if you forget any of these items, you can easily find them in trek shops near the trekking area, the starting point of the Trek, though the price there would likely be higher than normal.
A Restricted Area Permit is required for trekkers going to Upper Mustang. Government officials will check your pass at Kagbeni on the way in and out of the Trek. In addition, you must also obtain an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit to enter the area, and you must go through a government-registered agency to obtain such a permit.
The area around the Upper Mustang region has been gaining popularity as a major tourist attraction site due to the lovely scenes and location throughout the Trek. Depending on where you decide to spend the night, lodgings range from small teahouses to decent lodges with good facilities.
For average adventurers, the whole of the Upper Mustang may take 10 to 15 days to complete. Initially, you need to get to Jomsom before officially starting the Trek. You can reach Jomsom by flying from Kathmandu to Pokhara and then to Jomsom. However, if you are a foreigner, you need a Nepalese visa.
You will trek for approximately 5 to 6 hours on the second day. The day includes trekking alongside the Kaligandaki River after your permit is checked. After ascending through the ridges, you'll reach Chele via Tangbe Village.
Early in the morning, climb the Taklam La Pass through steep, dry terrain. After traversing some gorges, you will reach Syanboche village.
A steep ascent to Yamada La can be found before reaching the deserted Gailing with few settlements. A challenging climb awaits you at Nyu La Pass, which leads to Ghyami. At Ghyami, at the peak altitude of the Trek at 4,010 meters, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Mustang region.
Today, you'll cross the Tangmarchu River and descend into the gorgeous valley. Ascend again to the plateau and pass Mani Wall before you reach Charang village, where you'll spend the night.
You will descend to Tsarangchu and enter Tolung village. Then, you will ascend to Lo- Manthang via windy Lo pass. However, due to the high altitude, the seventh day is ideal for acclimatization so that you can adapt to the situation.
You'll spend the eighth day retracing your step back to Charang.
You will hike to the flatlands, descend from there to the Khola, cross the ridge, and descend to Tange on the ninth day of the Trek.
Today, you'll ascend to the Cacho La pass and then descend to reach Tetang village. Trekking begins early in the morning. Then, cross the suspension bridge and climb to the flat, and hike for about 8 hours a day.
Explorers trekking in Mustang must make a visit to the Muktinath Temple. After waking up early in the movie, descend to Chyangur village and then toward Muktinath after passing through Gyu La Pass.
After a great couple of weeks, we need to return and get back to Jomsom. You need to descend towards Jomsom through the Jharkot village and Kali Gandaki valley.
The Trek to the region of Upper Mustang is quite difficult. However, if you wish to challenge this thrilling region, good luck with it.
After you’ve enjoyed the thrilling and joyful experience, you can choose whether to visit other beautiful places in Nepal or head back home. No matter what you choose, we hope you have a fantastic time.
We can accommodate group tours for this trip; however, you may also opt for a private tour according to your liking. We can arrange private trips at any time of the year at any date of your choosing. Please let us know what your preferred travel dates are so that we can accommodate you.
Finally, after the completion of the Trek, take good rest as you cherish the beautiful moments you experienced during the Trek while on your trip back home. This Trek is certainly deserving of its reputation for its rich cultural richness, amazing views, and the hospitality of the locals that can make a trek to Mustang an unforgettable experience for you and your friends.
Located in the same region as the popular Ghorepani Trek and Annapurna Circuit, Panchase Trek is one of Nepal’s hidden natural and cultural gems. Located just north of Pokhara Valley, Panchase hill (2500m) is one of Nepal’s top Himalayan sightseeing sites. Graceful adventure travel designed an easy and short trek to Panchase hill that takes you to some of the country’s most exotic natural and cultural landscapes.
One of Nepal’s easier treks, this four-day Trek is ideal for families, elderly travelers, or those who just wish to enjoy nature and the outdoors more steadily. We trek for only three or four hours each day, so you have enough time to stop and cherish the views, take photographs, and have a relaxing evening in a village to witness or even participate in-local village life at the end of the day.
On your Trek to Panchase, you will enjoy a magnificent view of the Annapurna Mountains, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, Ganesh Himal, and many more peaks. This fascinating hiking adventure will allow you to explore the paradise city of Nepal, along with hiking through the Annapurna region’s wilderness and enjoying the region’s cultural settlements. However, the most noteworthy features of this Trek are the beautiful forest through which you trek and the expansive views of the mountains.
The woods in the Panchase area are very biodiverse, and a good portion of them is classified as protected forests. It has an incredibly large number of orchid species, with more than 100 varieties, so don’t miss seeing the beautiful flowers. Besides seeing the three mountains with heights greater than 8000 meters (Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, and Manaslu) along the trail as well as from Panchase Peak, there are several other less high (but still impressive!) mountains like Machhapuchhare, Lamjung, and Annapurna that are visible.
Purchase and its surroundings have a population of about 70,000 people. These areas include Kalabang, Chitre, Bhadaure, Talibarang, Arthare, Deurali, and Shane villages. If you plan to stay in one of these villages, you must make a reservation in advance, and you need to arrive before sunset.
In addition to reaching the World Peace Pagoda, the route will take you through forests where you can observe and appreciate the flora and fauna of Nepal and through several villages where you can learn about the life of the locals. Finally, on the summit of Panchase Hill, you will reach an elevation of 2500m from where you can view a stunning sunrise over the Himalaya Giants if you’re awake early enough.
For spiritual tourists, you might be interested in knowing that in Hinduism, Panchase is a name given to the five female seats of the divine mother. Panch means five. It originates from the root word asana yoga (physical posture). There were five levels of existence in ancient yoga, which is represented by the number five.
The Trek to Panchase village is relatively short and not very far from the city. Therefore, every trekking destination around Annapurna requires a TIMS card and an ACAP permit. But, they are not mandatory for Panchase Trek due to their location.
Similarly, Accommodation on this route is more basic than other popular treks such as Ghorepani Poon Hill or Annapurna Circuit Trek. In villages such as Kalabang and Pumdi, locals offer homestay services. People who love experiencing local culture and don’t mind going through basic facilities have the chance to see the locals and their way of life up close. The food is usually rice, potatoes, noodles, eggs, momos, chapatis, etc., and tea and coffee are served for beverages at the tables.
From Pokhara to Panchase, the hikes are neither high altitude nor rural; furthermore, they are short and relaxing, with beautiful sceneries throughout the journey. So you should prepare accordingly.
These are a few things our group of friends took along with us when we made our first trip to the area. We recommend you do the same.
Nonetheless, if you forget any of these items, you can easily find them in trek shops at the start of the Trek, near the lakeside.
You need to acquire a Nepalese visa for foreign explorers and get to Kathmandu. After a wonderful day exploring the beautiful Kathmandu valley, you need to get to Pokhara by bus or by flight. In Pokhara, our Trek begins.
The walk today will take us through a forest with occasional glimpses of the mountains. The peaks to keep an eye out for are Lamjung, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Gangapurna, Machhapucchare, and Manaslu. It is especially interesting to wander through the forests, where you'll see many species of birds, monkeys, orchids, and plants.
You might also see Nepal's national flower, the Rhododendron, in bloom during the spring. Finally, we end the day walking up to Panchase Bhanjyangandstaying there overnight.
This morning, climb the stone steps about 500 meters up to Panchase Peak early in the morning (the earlier, the better if you wish to see the gorgeous sunrise). At the highest point of the Trek, from here, you should be able to get a chance to see the mountains that have just peeked out at you all the way up to this point. After breakfast at the summit, continue gently descending to Bhadaure, where you'll spend the night.
We descend gently today, following a jeep trail most of the way. We pass several small villages before joining the road at Naudanda, where you will be able to get to Pokhara using a vehicle.
In addition to the Panchase Trek, you can continue to Sarangkot, about five hours away. From Sarangkot, you can walk back to the Lakeside in Pokhara, thus eliminating the need for a pickup at the end. In addition to being a popular day hike location from Pokhara, Sarangkot is also a popular paragliding launch site. From there, you can catch an impressive view of Phewa Tal and Pokhara and partake in the Paragliding activity.
Furthermore, if you wish to make this Trek a much longer one, it can be transformed into an eight-day trek by combining it with the Ghandruk trek. From Bhadaure, continue on to Bhirethanti, Ghandruk, and the Australian Camp.
After you’ve enjoyed the thrilling and joyful experience, you can choose whether to visit other beautiful places in Nepal or head back home. No matter what you choose, we hope you have a fantastic time.
We can accommodate group tours for this trip; however, you may also opt for a private tour according to your liking. We can arrange private trips at any time of the year at any date of your choosing. Please let us know what your preferred travel dates are so that we can accommodate you.
Ilam, one of Nepal’s popular hill stations, is geographically located on the country’s eastern side. It occupies an area of 1,703 square kilometers. It is internationally bound by Darjeeling, India, to the east, Dhankuta, India, to the west,, and Panchthar, India, to the north. The altitude of Ilam ranges from 140 m to 3,636 m.
The city of Ilam is one of the most popular attractions for tourists who travel to eastern Nepal. Located between the Himalayan ranges, it offers a variety of places for tourists to enjoy in the summer months. Imagine walking until you reach a dense forest filled with beautiful trees and other attractive flora. As you walk through the forest, listen to the sound of a rushing river crashing against rocks. While you envision all of this, inhale the fragrance of a warm cup of tea. In order for the best experience in Ilam, the following are the ten best places to visit in Ilam for out-of-towners.
Historically, Ilam is an entire garden with tea roots dating back to Jung Bahadur Rana’s tenure as Nepal’s Prime Minister. The Chinese Government provided tea saplings to Rana, and that’s how tea came to Ilam. Ilam Tea factory was established in 1868 and was active until 2010. Currently, Ilam has tea estates that are located between 4,000 and 5,000 feet above sea level.
Kanyam in Ilam is accessible to inbound and outbound visitors alike for photo opportunities, sightseeing, and picnics. Fikkal and Kanyam in Ilam were planted with tea shrubs over 140 years ago. The weekly Fikkal haat is a place where local farmers and vendors can sell their wares every Thursday. It is one of Ilam’s commercial hubs and the first stop for visitors from Darjeeling, India.
Antu Danda is a beautiful hilly region within the town that provides a perfect vantage point for viewing sunrise and sunset as well as the Himalayan Mountains. It provides the perfect viewing point for panoramic views of the Terai flatlands, tea gardens, thick forests of pine, and terraced hills of cash crops. On a bright, lovely, sunny day, the hill also provides views of Indian hill cities. These cities include Mirirk, Kurseong, and Darjeeling town.
Ilam has more to offer than just tea estates and plantations. The quiet hill town is home to the pristine Mai Pokhari Lake, surrounded by thick juniper, pine, fir, and birch forests. In addition to the flora, the forest contains rare birds and insects, including herbs, orchids, rhododendrons, and jackals. Furthermore, you can see some unusual animal species if you are fortunate enough. These include red pandas, musk deer (Kasturi), porcupines, leopards, and more. It is the best time to visit the lake between October and November when the lake is the site of an annual fair in honor of Goddess Bhagwati, whose abode is the lake.
Ilam Bazaar is 18 km away from Mai Pokhari, which can be reached in 30 minutes with a private taxi.
Sandakpur lies along the Nepal-India border at an elevation of 3,665 meters. In India, it is located in the Darjeeling region in West Bengal. A private cab can take tourists from Ilam to Maimajhuwa Khorsanitar. We will ultimately arrive at Sandakphu after a 5-hour trek.
Our visit to Sandakpur allows us to enjoy breathtaking views of the world’s highest mountains. These are Mt. Everest (8,848 m), Mt. Kangchenjunga (8,586 m), Mt. Makalu (8,485 m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m), and Mt. Kumbakarna (7,710 m). Additionally, it is well known for bird watching, and the region is home to the endangered Nepalese bird, the Danfe (Himalayan Monal), as well as endangered species like the musk deer and red pandas.
Goddess Pathibhara’s temple in Ilam is the most visited holy place in that part of the country. It is considered a sister temple to Taplejung’s original Pathibhara Devi temple, and those who are unable to travel to the original temple at 3,794 m can visit this one just above Sunmai. The site is located just above the highway to Ilam-Mechi, just above Hanspokhari.
At a height of 1,693 meters above sea level, Siddhi Thumka is located roughly 18 kilometers from Ilam’s Ajambare Danda. There are spectacular sunrises and sunsets at the spot, as well as views of the mountain peaks of Everest and Kangchenjunga and the Mahabharat and Churia ranges.
Among the other famous Siddhi Thumka destinations, one must also visit the Khnadrung Cave, Singhadevisthan, Fulbari, Namthala, Pankhelung falls, Ratopani, and Falgunanda Manghim Temple. A significant draw for agricultural tourism is the rice paddy fields is visible. So is orange cultivation on the southeastern side of Siddhi Thumpka.
Located near the confluence of two rivers, Mai Khola and Jogma Khola, Mai Beni is home to a Shiva temple, which receives thousands of visitors on the occasion of Maghe Sankranti in January. Visitors can reach Mai Beni from the Ilam bazaar, which is located about 3 km away.
In eastern Nepal, Gajur Mukhi is a revered Hindu shrine located at an altitude of 500 meters alongside the Deumai River. It is the most prominent Hindu pilgrimage site in the region. There is a belief that pilgrims who visit this holy place will be rewarded with a boy, while the voiceless will be given a voice. Gajur Mukhi Devisthan is located approximately 40 kilometers from Ilam Bazaar. Every year, on Kartik Purnima (November), a large fair is held at the Devisthan.
Hangetham is the destination for forest protection campaigners as well as nature lovers alike. Built on the northeastern edge of Ilam, Hangetham stands 2,170 meters above sea level in the Jamuna VDC. Ilam’s spectacular vistas, as well as changing weather patterns and thick fog, are notable for the area.
There are many animals in the forests of Hangetham and Choyatar, including red pandas, leopards, thars, chair bags, black bears, thakthakes, and rajpankhis. Among the many species of birds that inhabit the forest are munal, hawks, kandevaccur, rhododendrons, chaps, sunakharis, bante, katushs, and others. During your stay in Hangetham, you can also visit nearby Buddhist temples as well as Naya Bazaar and Thumke.
Todke Falls is the second-longest waterfall in Nepal, with an 85-meter height. It is situated about 40 meters west of Mai Khola or Mai Beni and sits at 1,600 meters above sea level. The area is popular with visitors who come here to capture pictures of the waterfall that looks as if it has fallen from the heavens. Another waterfall in the area is Dhappar Todke, which is located in the Mai Majhuwa Dhappar district.
For interested travelers, the full tour of Ilam, including the attractions mentioned above, can be arranged along with accommodations and a vehicle to travel to and from these locations here at Pokhara Info.
The itinerary mentioned above is the general plan arranged by Pokhara Info. The above itinerary is only a guideline; it might change due to the availability of lodging and campsites, fluctuating weather conditions, unforeseen political, trail, and environmental, or any other factors beyond our control. After consulting with the group, your trek leader will decide the best way to reach a final decision if this occurs.
If the itinerary is unsuitable for you, please let us know, and we will customize it. We will be able to make changes to the itinerary if clients want to do so.