Monday, October 4, 2010

Tours and sightseeing in and around Kathmandu

The political, commercial, and cultural hub of Nepal, Kathmandu is the first stop for the majority of visitors to the country. Once a separate kingdom in itself, it now contains three fabled cities - Kathmandu (population 550,000); Patan (160,000); and Bhaktapur (population 75,000).


There are seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Valley. The history of the Valley begins with the Buddhist saint Manjushree who slashed a passage through the surrounding hills to drain out the primordial waters and make it inhabitable


Over the centuries, a refined urban civilization emerged, built on a unique synthesis of Hinduism and Buddhism. Dynasties came and went. Trade and the arts flourished. Its deeply religious Newari inhabitants built fabulous cities and artistic temples that attracted devout pilgrims as well as rampaging invaders. In the late 18th century, following the founding of modern Nepal within more or less the present boundaries, Kathmandu was made the capital.

 Around Kathmandu valley

These are a couple of the places around Kathmandu valley. because they are so close, there are many ways to get there (including mountain biking!)

Nagarkot :
Savor the beauty of majestic mountains in comfort and quiet.


Nagarkot is located 30 km to the east of Kathmandu on the valley rim. It is the favorite weekend gateway for those who seek Himalayan scenery in rural serenity. From Nagarkot, you witness the stunning view of mountains that extend all the way from Dhaulagiri in the west past Mt. Everest to Kanchenjunga in the east. The surrounding countryside of Nagarkot is great for walking.


Nagarkot is situated at an elevation of (2,175 m), and provides a grandstand panorama of the Himalayas. You can see five of the world’s tallest mountains – Everest (8,848 m), Lhotse (8,516m), Cho Oyu (8,201m), Makalu (8,463m) – and many other lesser (yet still impressive) summits. The snow peaks look especially gorgeous during sunset and sunrise.


Nagarkot, surrounded by terraced hillsides and picturesque farm houses, the hilltop resort is the epitome of an idyllic escape – with only the wind and the sound of rustling leaves to disturb you. Bird watching is a joy in the forests here. Short hiking options abound. The most popular walk leads down from Nagarkot along a ridge to the temple of Changu Narayan-with views of Sankhu village to the right and Bhaktapur to the left. Another preferred trail leads south, from Nagarkot to Nala and Banepa, on the highway to Tibet.


Dhulikhel :
Himalayan viewing amid nature’s bounty.


Dhulikhel (1440vm) is a small town with a long history. Records show that it has been around for more than 500 years. The artistic skill and urban ethos of its Newari inhabitants have created a place of charm and beauty. Streets lined with bare-brick houses, carved wooden windows, sloping tile roofs, pagoda temples, and sacred statues everywhere. You will think you have wandered into a cultural theme park.


The major places of worship here are the Narayan and Harisiddhi temples, which are profusely adorned with wood carvings. The Gokhureswar Mahadev temple, a 30 minutes walk to the eastern part of town, is a peaceful and scenic spot. The Bhagawati temple is situated at a height in the western part of Dhulikhel and dominates the skyline. From here, you can get a beautiful vista of the town and surrounding areas.


There are many vintage points in Dhulikhel which offers a panorama of the Himalaya that will leave you spellbound. Looking out over low hills and valleys, the mountains rise up in an extended arc, stretching from the far left to the far right. More than 20 Himalayan Peaks can be seen in all their glory. You should get up early in the morning to watch the first rays of the sun hit the summits and see their colors change. Sunset views are equally spectacular!

Pokhara: An Enchanting Himalayan Valley

Pokhara is a resort city of remarkable beauty. The serenity of Phewa Lake and the magnificent summit of Machhapuchhare rising behind it create a magical ambience of peace. Pokhara is part of a once vibrant caravan route extending between India and Tibet. This is the land of Magars and Gurungs who have earned worldwide fame as Gurkha soldiers.


Places To Visit in Pokhara

Mountain View:
Clearly the most stunning of Pokhara’s sights is the spectacular panorama of the Annapurna range which forms its backdrop. The Annapurna massif includes Annapurna I to IV and Annapurna south. Although the highest among them is Annapurna I (8,091 m), which dominates all others in this area.


Phewa Lake:
The second largest lake in the Kingdom roughly measuring 1.5 x 4 km, is the center of all attractions in Pokhara. It is the largest and most enchanting of the three lakes that add to the resplendence of the resort town. The eastern shore, popularly known as Lakeside or Baidam, is the favorite home base for travelers and is where most of the hotels, restaurants, and handicrafts shops are located.


Begnas Lake And Rupa Lake:
Begnas lake and Rupa Lake are located about 15 km from Pokhara at the end road that turns north from the highway to Kathmandu. Divided by a forested hillock called Panchabhaiya Danda, the lakes offer the perfect nature retreat because of their relative seclusion. Splendid boating and fishing opportunities can be had here.


Barahi Temple:
Barahi Temple, Build on an island in Phewa Lake, this two storied pagoda is dedicated to the boar manifestation of Ajima, the protectress deity representing the female force. Devotees can be seen, especially on Saturdays, carrying animals across the lake to be sacrificed to the deity.


World Peace Stupa:
World Peace Stupa, a massive Buddhist stupa, is situated on the to of the southern shore of Fewa lake, beside being an impressive sight in itself, The shrine is a great vantage point which offers superb views of Annapurna range and Pokhara city.


Seti Gandaki:
Flowing right through the city, the boisterous river runs completely underground at places. Amazingly, at certain points the river appears hardly two meters wide. But its depth is quite beyond imagination – over 20 meters! Mahendra Pul, a small bridge near the old Mission Hospital, provides a perfect view of the river’s dreadful rush and the deep gorge made by its powerful flow.


Devi’s Fall:
Locally known as patale chhango Devi’s fall (also knows as Devil’s, devin’s or david’s) is an awesome waterfall lying about 2 KM. south-west of pokhara airport on the highway to Tansen. Legend has it that a trekkers (devin, David.) Was washed away by the pardi khola and disappeared down into an underground passage beneath the fall.


Gupteswar Gupha:
This is a sacred cave located near devi’s fall. The cave is almost 3 km long. It has some big, hall-sized rooms and some passages. This cave holds special value for Hindus since a phallic symbol of lord shiva is preserved here in the condition it was discovered.


Mahendra Gupha:
Another of nature’s wonders in Pokhara is the Mahendra Gupha. This large limestone cave is locally known as the house of bats, an apt name for it. A two-hour walk to the north of Pokhara, it is best to bring your own torch to see the stalactites and stalagmites, as well as the local winged residents.


Robert’s Aviary:
Colonel Jimmy Roberts, the father of trekking in Nepal, collected pheasants during his trekking and mountaineering forays into the Annapurna mountains. He maintained an aviary for these colorful birds, and it was acquired by the Fulbari Resorts & Spa.


The Old Bazaar:
Pokhara’s traditional bazaar is colorful and so are its ethnically diverse traders. In its temples and monuments can be seen ties to the Newar architecture of the Kathmandu valley. Located about 4 km from Lakeside, this market’s original charm is alive and well.


Bindhyabasini Temple:
Bindhyabasini Temple is the center of religious activity in the old bazaar. It is dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati, a manifestation of Shakti. The park-like grounds offer a fine picnic area, and on Saturdays and Tuesdays, when devotees flock there, it has a festive local flavor.


The Tibetan refugee settlement, Tashi Palkheil, also known locally as Hempa Camp, is 7 km north of Pokhara on the west bank of the Seti River. Of interest here are a monastery, handicraft center, and herbal medicine clinic.

Mailing Address:
First Environmental Trekking (P.) Ltd.
Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal
P.O.Box : 8056

Tel : + 977-1-4417343     
        + 977-1- 4424346
Mobile: +977-9851038817          
             +977-9851022303
Fax : + 977-1-4423855

E-mail : firstentrek@wlink.com.np
http://www.go2trek.com
http://www.firstetrek.com

Tamang Heritage Trail in Rasuwa (8 days)

This trekking area is located about 30 kilometers toward the north of Kathmandu. Trekking along this unbeaten trail is a new experience even for the trekkers who have experienced the beauty of this mountain region with its culture of local people before. You trek through Tamang villages with its life, culture, and crafts, which have remained untouched since the beginning of the settlement. The trekkers will receive hearty felicitation by the locals, rich in their distinct costumes, architecture of their mountain houses, and ancient monasteries. It offers you a breathtaking wilderness experience through beautiful landscapes of alpine terrain, flat meadows, and rhododendron forests.


The main inhabitants of this area are believed to be the descendants of Tibetans from Kerung who intermingled with Tamang of the Helambu area. Tamang communities are generally found on higher elevations with the peasants engaging in shifting cultivation and extraction of forest products. They are mainly sheep and yak herders but grow some hardy grains and vegetables. Their daily life activities include raising livestock, agriculture and trade with Kerung in Tibet. They also make baskets and mats from mountain bamboo.


During this trek you can enjoy the dramatic views of: Langtang Lirung (7245 m), Langtang Kerung, Chimse Danda ridge crossed by Ganjala Pass (5122 m), Dorje Lakpa (6989 m), Jugal Himal, Ganesh Himal, Paldor peak, Shringi Himal, Manaslu, and Sanjen Himal ranges. In addition, you find over 70 glaciers of varying sizes, and high altitude lakes, including Gosainkunda, Pravatikunda, Bhairavkunda, and Dudhkunda.


The trail starts either from Dhunche or Syabrubesi and passes through Goljung, Gatlang, Thuman, Timure, and Briddim. Goljung and Gatlang are traditional Tamang villages teeming with traditional cultural features. The visit to a beautiful local Tamang monastery and the holy Parvatikunda Lake at Gatlang adds exhilaration to your trekking.


Facts of the Trek

Duration: 8 Days
Trek type: Camping
   

Minimum Pax: 1 +
Mode of travel: Land
Grade: Strenuous

   

Itinerary in Detail

Day 01 :
   

Drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi (1467 m) via Trishuli (Nuwakot) which takes about eight hours.  You head north out of Kathmandu driving through scenic foothills and ridgeline vistas to Syabru Besi passing through Dhunche. While passing along the road at the bank of Trishuli river you catch a glimpse of Ganesh Himal, terraces and green hills. As you pass through Dhunche you feel as if you are heading towards deep land. At the same time, you notice that the road after Betrawati is still under construction. You stay overnight at hotel in Syabrubesi.
Day 02 :
   

Trek from Syabrubesi to Gatlang (2238 m) via Goljung, which takes about six hours. While trekking you experience of the Tamang culture. You can see scenery from view point. This day you walk through village. The cultural show at Goljung and Gatlang makes your trek an even more memorable one. Gatlang, set high on a hillside among terraced fields is, a Tamang settlement. One can visit a Tamang monastery, and the beautiful Parvatikunda Lake at Gatlang. Camping at Gatlang.

Day 03 :
   

Trek from Gatlang to Tatopani (2607 m), which takes about three hours. On the way you enjoy sightseeing of Langtang range and Ganesh Himal. At Tatopani, which naturally signifies 'hot water,' you can take a nice hot bath in natural hot springs with bathing areas in the lap of the mountains. It is believed that taking a dip into this spring would heal you from your aches and pains. This day's trekking provides you an opportunity to experience more of the Tamang culture. Camping at Tatopani.

Day 04 :
   

Trek from Tatopani to Thuman (2338 m) via Nagthali (3165 m), which takes about five hours. You trek via Bimthang. En route you can encounter animals such monkeys, deer, and more. The panoramic view of Langtang, Kerung, Ganesh Himal, and Sanjen ranges can be distinctly experienced from Nagthali. Nagthali used to be a popular meditation center for the local monks and priests. Another cultural village Thuman is popular for its Shamanic performances and beautiful view of Langtang. Beautiful views of the mountains can be seen from every house in Thuman. Camping at Thuman.

Day 05 :
   

Trek from Thuman to Timure (1762 m) which takes about five hours. While trekking from Thuman to Timure you can visit nearby historical Rasuwagadi. This day's trekking grants you an opportunity to observe Tibeto Burman Tamang culture on the two villages on the way. Timure is on the old trade route to Tibet. A fort here is a historical reminder of the Nepal Tibetan relations that has existed for many centuries. A suspension bridge here links Nepal and Tibet.

Day 06 :
   

Trek from Timure to Briddim (2229 m) which takes about six hours. You can experience the village life of Briddim. Moreover you can enjoy cultural a show performed by community members. Briddim is a Tibetan Buddhist village in the bosom of Langtang Himal. Around 43 houses are spread in Z shape. Most of the houses are made up of stone and have roofs of split shake. As direct descendant of ancient Tibean immigrants, the culture and tradition of Briddim closely resembles that of nearly Tibetan villages. Camping at Briddim.

Day 07 :
   

Trek from Briddim to Syabrubesi (1467 m) which takes three hours. You trek from Briddim to Syabrubesi via Wangel. Today the trail descends gently, passing through villages, terraces, and magnificent views of surrounded hills. Camping at Syabrubesi.

Day 08 :
   

Trek from Syabrubesi to Dhunche (1965 m) and drive back to Kathmandu which takes approximately three hours. It is a pleasant drive back to Kathmandu with splendid views of hills, mountains, terraces and villages. You drive along the unpaved road until Betrawati, and from there you begin to follow a narrow, well-paved road. Trek ends upon arrival to Kathmandu.
   

Services Include:

National Park entry permit, Trekking permit, Land transportation to and fro, Accommodation in lodges during the trek, Food: three meals a day, A guide & required number of porter(s), Essential equipment.

Services Exclude:

Personal expenses, Insurance, Tips, Emergency evacuation by Helicopter, Alternative transportation in case of heavy rain, landslide, strike, road blockade etc.


Mailing Address:
First Environmental Trekking (P.) Ltd.
Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal
P.O.Box : 8056

Tel : + 977-1-4417343     
        + 977-1- 4424346
Mobile: +977-9851038817          
             +977-9851022303
Fax : + 977-1-4423855

E-mail : firstentrek@wlink.com.np
http://www.go2trek.com
http://www.firstetrek.com

Tamang heritage trail combined with Langtang trail (11 days)

This trekking area is located about 30 kilometers north of Kathmandu. Trekking along this unbeaten trail will be a new experience even for the trekkers who have experienced the beauty of this mountain region and the culture of the local people before. You trek through Tamang villages with their native life, culture, and crafts, which have remained untouched since the beginning of the settlement. The trekkers will receive hearty felicitation by the locals, rich in their distinct costumes, culture, and architecture of their mountain houses and ancient monasteries. It offers you a wilderness experience through beautiful landscapes of alpine terrain, flat meadows, and rhododendron forests.


The main inhabitants of this area are believed to be the descendants of Tibetans from Kerung who intermingled with Tamang of the Helambu area. Tamang communities are generally found on higher elevations with the peasants, engaging in shifting cultivation and extraction of forest products. They are mainly sheep and yak herders, but also grow some hardy grains and vegetables. Their daily life activities include raising livestock, agricultural chores, and trading with Kerung in Tibet. They also make baskets and mats from mountain bamboo.

During this trek you can enjoy the dramatic views of Langtang Lirung (7245 m), Langtang Kerung, Chimse Danda ridge crossed by Ganjala Pass (5122 m), Dorje Lakpa (6989 m), Jugal Himal, Ganesh Himal, Paldor peak, Shringi Himal, Manaslu and Sanjen Himal ranges. In addition you find over 70 glaciers of varying sizes and high altitude lakes including Gosainkunda, Pravatikunda, Bhairavkunda and Dudhkunda.


The trail starts either from Dhunche or Syabrubesi and passes through Goljung, Gatlang, Thuman, Timure, Briddim, Lama Hotel, Langtang valley and Kyangjin Gompa. Goljung, Gatlang and Langtang are traditional Tamang villages filled with interesting cultural features. The visit to beautiful local Tamang monastery and the holy Parvatikunda Lake at Gatlang adds exhilaration to your trekking.

Facts of the Trek

Duration: 11 Days
Trek type: Camping
   

Minimum Pax: 1 +
Mode of travel: Land
Grade: Strenuous

   

Itinerary in Detail

Day 01 :
   

Drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi (1467 m) via Trishuli (Nuwakot), which takes about eight hours.  You head north out of Kathmandu driving through scenic foothills and ridgeline vistas to Syabrubesi passing through Dhunche. While passing along the road at the bank of Trishuli river you catch a glimpse of Ganesh Himal, terraces and green hills. As you pass through Dhunche you feel as if you are heading towards deep land. At the same time, you notice that the road after Betrawati is still under construction. You stay overnight at hotel in Syabrubesi.

Day 02 :
   

Trek from Syabrubesi to Gatlang (2238 m) via Goljung and it takes about six hours. While trekking you experience of the Tamang culture. You can see beautiful scenery from view points. Today you walk through a village. The cultural show at Goljung and Gatlang also makes your trekking a memorable one. Gatlang set high on a hillside among terraced fields is a Tamang settlement. One can visit a Tamang monastery and beautiful Parvatikunda Lake at Gatlang. Camping at Gatlang.

Day 03 :
   

Trek from Gatlang to Tatopani (2607 m), which takes about three hours. On the way you enjoy sightseeing of Langtang range and Ganesh Himal. At Tatopani, which naturally signifies 'hot water,' you can take a nice hot bath in natural hot springs with bathing areas in the lap of the mountains. It is believed that taking a dip into this spring would heal you from your aches and pains. This day's trekking provides you an opportunity to experience more of the Tamang culture. Camping at Tatopani.

Day 04 :
   

Trek from Tatopani to Thuman (2338 m) via Nagthali (3165 m), which takes about five hours. You trek via Bimthang. En route you can encounter animals such monkeys, deer, and more. The panoramic view of Langtang, Kerung, Ganesh Himal, and Sanjen ranges can be distinctly experienced from Nagthali. Nagthali used to be a popular meditation center for the local monks and priests. Another cultural village Thuman is popular for its Shamanic performances and beautiful view of Langtang. Beautiful view of the mountains can be seen from every house in Thuman. Camping at Thuman.

Day 05 :
   

Trek from Thuman to Briddim (2229 m) via Lingling which takes about seven hours. This day you can observe Tibeto Burman Tamang culture on the way. You can experience village life of Briddim. Moreover you can enjoy cultural show performed by community members. You can also experience of home stay and Tamang culture. To mention about Briddim is a Tibetan Buddhist village in the bosom of Langtang Himal. Around 43 houses are spread in Z shape. Most of the houses are made up of stone and have roofs of splitshake. As direct descendant of ancient Tibetan immigrants, the culture and tradition of Briddim closely resembles that of nearly Tibetan villages. Caming at Briddim.

Day 06 :
   

Trek from Briddim to Lama Hotel (2470 m) and it takes about six hours. You walk through Briddim village while observing the local lifestyle and culture, and interacting with the locals. Later on, you find that the settlement of Lama Hotel is located on the banks of Langtang River and surrounded by lush forests and mountains. Stay overnight at Lama Hotel.

Day 07 :
   

Trek from Lama Hotel to Langtang (3430 m), which takes about five hours. En route you are quite mesmerized by the beautiful views of the Langtang range. You can also experience and make observation of Tibetan settlements. Camping in Langtang.

Day 08 :
   

Trek from Langtang to Kyangjin (3870 m), which takes about three hours. To day you can see the glaciated valley of Kyangjin on the lap of Langtang Lirung. It is surrounded by snowy mountains and also the world's nearest settlements to glaciers. If you happen to visit during the monsoon season, you can find various wild Himalayan flowers. Camping at Kyangjin.

Day 09 :
   

Trek from Kyangjin to Lama Hotel (2470 m) which takes about six hours. From Kyangjin you retrace your route, following the Langtang Khola to Langtang village and on to Ghora Tabela. After lunch you continue the steep descent to Lama Hotel. Overnight stay at Lama Hotel.

Day 10 :
   

Trek from Lama Hotel to Syabrubesi, Wichita takes about five hours. The upper part of the trail is more beautiful for the panoramic view of mountains and green hill views. This path is broader and remains sunny through the different Shepra and Tamang villages. The first half part of the trail is gradually down and then the trail does steeply descent to the Syabru Besi (1600 m.) There was run a project called Chilime Power Plant. The main inhabitants belong to a Tamang community and they have adopted Tibetan lifestyle. Camping in Syabrubesi.

Day 11 :
   

Drive from Syabrubesi to Kathmandu, which it takes about eight hours. It is a pleasant drive back to Kathmandu, with splendid views of hills, mountains, terraces, and villages. You drive along the unpaved road until Betrawati, when you begin to follow narrow well-paved road. Trek ends upon arrival to Kathmandu.
   

Services Included

National Park entry permit, Trekking permit, Land transportation to and fro, Accommodation in lodges during the trek, Food: three meals a day, A guide & required number of porter(s), Essential equipment.

Services Exclude:

Personal expenses, Insurance, Tips, Emergency evacuation by Helicopter (if necessary), Alternative transportation in case of heavy rain, landslide, strike, road blockade etc.


Mailing Address:
First Environmental Trekking (P.) Ltd.
Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal
P.O.Box : 8056

Tel : + 977-1-4417343     
        + 977-1- 4424346
Mobile: +977-9851038817          
             +977-9851022303
Fax : + 977-1-4423855

E-mail : firstentrek@wlink.com.np
http://www.go2trek.com
http://www.firstetrek.com