POKHARA (Valley of Enchanting Beauty)
In 1899, Ekai Kawaguchi, the Japanese scholar and the first foreigner to visit Pokhara, remarked, “In all my travels in the Himalayas, I saw no scenery as enchanting as that which captivated me in Pokhara.”
It is often said, “If there is a paradise on earth, it begins from the north to Pokhara.” Nestled at the foothills of the Annapurna Himalayas, Pokhara is a stunning blend of emerald-blue lakes, lush forests, deep gorges, underground waterfalls, caves, hills, and streams. This unique destination is the only place in the world where you can witness three peaks over 8,000 meters, while standing at an elevation of just 800 meters above sea level. The majestic Mt. Fishtail (Machhapuchhre, 6,993m) is just 33 km away. While Kathmandu is known as the cultural hub of Nepal, Pokhara, with its breathtaking natural beauty, is the perfect place to relax, refresh, and discover the wonders of nature.
Pokhara is a city rich in culture, home to diverse ethnic communities, temples, and vibrant cultural festivals:
Temples
Pokhara is known for its many temples, gumbas, and churches. Notable temples include the Tal Barahi Temple, often referred to as the “Lake Temple,” situated on an island in Phewa Lake, and the Bindhyabasini Temple, one of the oldest and most revered temples in the region.
Cultural Festivals
Visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of cultural festivals celebrated in Pokhara, which reflect the rich traditions of the local communities. These festivals are a lively showcase of music, dance, and religious practices.
Traditional Villages
Experience the authentic local culture by visiting traditional villages around Pokhara. These villages offer a glimpse into the lifestyles, customs, and practices of the people in the region.
Magar and Gurung People
The Magar and Gurung communities, who are predominantly found in Pokhara, are well-known for their courage as Gurkha warriors. Their rich cultural heritage, traditional attire, and warm hospitality make them an integral part of Pokhara’s identity.
Thakalis
The Thakali people, known for their strong entrepreneurial spirit, run tea houses along the trekking routes in the Annapurna region. These tea houses provide a glimpse into their hospitality and offer travelers delicious traditional meals.
Tibetan
Pokhara is home to a significant Tibetan community, which has contributed to the city’s unique cultural fabric. Visitors can explore the Tibetan settlement, learn about its history, and enjoy Tibetan cuisine. Cultural tours offer insights into the lifestyle, customs, and art of the Tibetan people.
Attractions in Pokhara:
- Magnificent Annapurna Range: Breathtaking views of the towering Annapurna mountains.
- Phewa Lake: A peaceful lake perfect for boating and scenic views.
- Sarangkot: Known for stunning sunrise views and panoramic mountain vistas. Also, offers paragliding activity.
- The Lord Shiva Statue, Pumdikot: A serene spot with a massive statue of Lord Shiva and stunning views.
- World Peace Stupa: Tushita-Nepal, a meditation center on the ridge of the World Peace Stupa, offering the best hiking trails for mountain and lake views.
- Adventure Activities: Paragliding, motor gliding, helicopter charters, ultralight flying, ATV rides, zip lining, and hot air balloon rides, etc.
- Relaxation & Nature: Natural hot springs, wild honey hunting, cycling, pony rides, and visits to astrologers and meditation centers.
- Eco-Farm Stays: Experience rural life with a stay at eco-friendly farms.
Major City Sightseeing:
- Davis Falls: A famous waterfall with a fascinating story.
- Gupteshwor Cave: A mystical cave with a sacred hidden temple.
- Tibetan Refugee Camp: Explore Tibetan culture and heritage.
- International Mountain Museum: A tribute to the history of mountain exploration.
- Gurkha Memorial Museum: Honoring the bravery and history of the Gurkha soldiers.
- Cultural Museum: Learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region.
- Seti Gorge: A dramatic river gorge with stunning views.
- Old Bazaar: A traditional market offering local crafts and goods.
- Bindabasini Temple: A historic temple with spiritual significance.
- Boating at Phewa Taal (Lake): Enjoy scenic boat rides on the tranquil lake.
- Barahi Temple: A revered temple located on an island in Phewa Taal (Lake), where visitors can pay homage.
KATHMANDU VALLEY (The capital city)
Once, the Kathmandu Valley was a vast lake. According to legend, the Buddhist deity Lord Manjushree sliced through a small hill and drained the lake’s waters, transforming the area into a habitable land. The Newars, the indigenous people of the valley, are credited with creating the rich civilization of its three iconic cities: Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur. Their remarkable art and architecture are so captivating that visitors often find themselves mesmerized for hours. As a result, UNESCO has designated several sites in the valley, including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swayambhunath, as World Heritage Sites.
The valley’s deep-rooted religious culture, a unique blend of Hinduism and Buddhism, offers a fascinating glimpse into its spiritual life. The multi-roofed temples, exquisite monasteries, intricate stone and wood carvings, along with age-old traditions and religious festivals, continue to infuse Kathmandu Valley with vibrant energy and charm.
Attractions in Kathmandu:
Sightseeing World Heritage Sites:
- Pashupatinath Temple: A sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Boudhanath Stupa: One of the largest Buddhist stupas in Nepal, a center for Tibetan Buddhism.
- Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): A UNESCO World Heritage site offering panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley.
- Durbar Square: Explore the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square, a hub of cultural and architectural heritage.
- Living Goddess Kumari: Visit the residence of the living goddess, an iconic figure of Nepalese Hinduism.
- Shopping at Thamel & Ason: Bustling markets for souvenirs, clothing, and handicrafts.
- Art & Architecture: Admire the intricate Newar architecture and religious art throughout the valley.
- Discotheques & Casinos: Enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Kathmandu.
- Everest Mountain Flight: Take a scenic flight offering spectacular views of Mount Everest and the Himalayan range.
- Meditation Centers: Find peace and tranquility at various meditation centers across the valley.
Sightseeing in Patan (City of Fine Arts):
- Patan Durbar Square: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning architecture.
- Patan Museum: A treasure trove of traditional Nepalese art and artifacts.
- Krishna Mandir: A beautiful pagoda-style temple dedicated to Lord Krishna.
- Mahabouddha Temple: Known as the “Temple of 1,000 Buddhas.”
- Hiranya Varna Mahavihar: A golden monastery that is an architectural masterpiece.
- Kumbheshwor Temple: An important Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Jagatnarayan Temple: A historic temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
- Rudra Varna Mahavihar: A significant Buddhist monastery.
- Temple of Machindranath: A key temple in the Patan area.
- Patan Industrial Estate & Central Zoo: Explore local industries and enjoy a visit to the zoo.
Sightseeing in Bhaktapur (City of Devotees):
- Palace of 55 Windows: A stunning architectural gem in Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
- Golden Gate: A beautifully adorned gateway to the Durbar Square.
- Batsala Devi Temple: A historic temple dedicated to the goddess Batsala Devi.
- National Art Gallery: A gallery housing ancient Nepalese art.
- Nyatpola Temple: A five-story pagoda-style temple dedicated to the goddess Siddhi Lakshmi.
- Bhairavnath Temple: A prominent temple dedicated to Lord Bhairab.
- Dattatraya Temple: A sacred temple dedicated to the combined form of the Hindu trinity—Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.
LUMBINI (The Birthplace of Lord Buddha)
Situated on the foothills of the Churiya range of Nepal in the district of Rupandehi, the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautam, the shakya prince and the ultimate Buddha, the enlightened one, is the pilgrimage destination of the world’s millions of Buddhists. It is the pilgrimage site for all who cherish peace and harmony. UNESCO listed the nativity site and the Ashoka’s pillar as the world heritage site in December 1997. The great emperor of India Ashoka had visited holy Lumbini and promised not to involve in wars again. As an evidence, he erected Ashoka pillar describing his visit to pay homage and his magnanimity in reducing taxes. Mayadevi temple, sacred garden and the sacred pond (where queen Mayadevi had taken bath just before giving birth to the Buddha) are the major attractions of Lumbini. It is approximately 280 Km away from Kathmandu. Lumbini Development Trust (LDT) is the responsible authority for its development and preservation.
The holy site of Lumbini is bordered by a large monastic zone, in which only monasteries can be built, no shops or hotel or restaurants. It is separated into an eastern and western monastic zone; the eastern having the Theravada monasteries and the western having Mahayana and Vajrayana monasteries. Silently flickering Peepal tree and prayer flags, birds chirping and reflection of gently burning oil lamps on the pond creates peaceful environment. Early morning to late evening pilgrim from various country perform chanting and meditation. The twilight moment is very much peaceful, enchanting and touchy.
In 1896, Nepalese archaeologist team led by Khadga Samsher Rana discovered a great stone pillar at the site attributed to Emperor Ashoka. Records made by the Chinese pilgrim Fa- Xian were also used in the process of identifying this religiously acclaimed site. Despite of crystal clear evidence, construction of duplicate Lumbini in India side has become a shameful act for India government.
Attractions in Lumbini:
- Lumbini Sacred Garden & Bodhi Tree: The birthplace of Lord Buddha, this serene garden includes the Bodhi Tree, where Siddhartha Gautama is said to have attained enlightenment.
- Archaeological Excavations: Explore the significant archaeological sites that reveal the ancient history of Lumbini and its religious significance.
- Maya Devi Temple: The holiest site in Lumbini, believed to mark the exact spot where Queen Maya Devi gave birth to Lord Buddha.
- Ashoka Pillar: Erected by Emperor Ashoka in 249 BC, this pillar marks the sacred birthplace of Buddha.
- Eternal Flame: A symbolic flame that burns in remembrance of Lord Buddha’s teachings.
- Monastic Zone & Stupas: A peaceful area with various monasteries and stupas built by Buddhist communities from around the world, reflecting different architectural styles.
- New Lumbini Village: A modern settlement offering cultural insights and a gateway to the Lumbini region.
- Devdaha & Ramgram: Ancient sites associated with Lord Buddha’s early life and his mother, Maya Devi. Ramgram is known for housing one of the Buddha’s relics in a stupa, making it a significant pilgrimage site.
