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  • A charming tale of an amazing sport - Elephant Polo

    By HousingNepal.com →
    Varun SJB Rana says, "Life is better...When you are Just Happy", after his experience at the World Elephant Polo Championship

    Elephant Polo! As a Nepali, I had only heard about it. I was lucky to be able to attend the World Elephant Polo Champi onship this year, at the Tiger Tops Karnali Lodge.

    Although I wouldn't call myself a world traveller but I do have a list of countries I have travelled, to give me a basic idea of the vast sights the world has to offer, and how little time we have, to be able to see it all! Hence, I developed the `cliché' 100 things to do before I die, list.

    Elephant Polo in Nepal should definitely be in all of your list.

    The welcome

    I reached the camp on the third day after an hour's flight from Kathmandu, and a bumpy two hour drive from Nepalgunj airport to the Tiger Tops Karnali lodge in sheer anticipation. I must say the mood amongst the guests was set. Well, literally after few hours of interesting conversation, I felt myself as a part of this most eclectic, charming and highly entertaining group of people from all over the world. It was as if I had stepped into the most interesting travel journal of all time. And they had all come for the love of the sport, and Tiger Tops. Some have been coming to Nepal even before I was born. What is it that brings them back? This question was answered over the next three days.

    I am grateful for such travellers, as their generousity was portrayed that night at an entertaining auction, proceeds of which were donated to various charity organisations in Nepal. At dinner, I was completely surprised by all the delicious cuisine presented. I wouldn't call myself an avid vegetable eater, but the sheer freshness presented in the lightly steamed vegetables was beyond anything my mind could comprehend. The emergency `stash' of junk food I had carried, remained untouched.

    The dinners always ended with a brilliant and witty recap of all that happened during the day , along with the introduction and a warm welcome to those who arrived that day, conducted by the witty Peter Prentice. These little gestures add so much more to the entire experience.

    The next day was filled with various preliminary elephant polo matches, leading to the final in two days. Elephant polo can't be enjoyed better than by actually witnessing it, and better yet, playing it! The sheer juxtaposition of the players' determination, passion and energy, compared to the elephants' calm, cool movements, and completely lovable nature made it a treat for the mind! Stories of people there and their travels, the dissection of each strategic move of the match before, and fun filled conversations made the day .

    Bicycle polo too
    Along with the World Elephant Polo Championship, a side tournament of bicycle polo began that day, which as a player, I would say, `looks more dangerous than it actually is', and `way more fun than it seems'.
    After the day was over, sitting under a tent on the polo grounds, I rejoiced on the fact that i was too happy .

    Sitting in warm winter sun, looking at elephants roll by , people laughing, playing, talking, sharing; this is what brings people back to Nepal.

    The evening ended with the camp driving to the beach alongside the Karnali river. Tiger Tops' management and hospitality is something all such business in Nepal should aspire to achieve. Candle lights illuminated the beautiful surroundings of the beach camp with a breath taking sunset view.

    After the semi final games of elephant polo, the bicycle polo games were held to determine the winner. It was nice to see that villagers from near and far came throughout the day to observe this peculiar sporting event. Highly entertained, the crowd would burst out into the loudest accolades whilst when two bicycles collided and fell on the ground. The brakes non functional during games was a safety precaution, apparently with the brakes, players tend to go faster, trusting the brakes to work at the opportune moment, and end up in a complete flip. The team I was in named `The South African Africans' were the proud winners of the tournament, though due credit must be given to the hero of our team Sam Browne, who drove us to victory .

    All of us were eager for the night's dinner, as it was to be held in the elephant camp, with the elephants, the stars of the show. The entire walkway was lit with hundreds of candles, the sight was more overwhelming when the rows of elephant shelters with them in it revealed themselves. The dinner table was one long table opposite the elephants in a single row. I have never experienced a more breathtaking sit down dinner in my life before.

    The locals had a fire roaring on one side with joyous music and dancing to entertain the enamoured guests.

    The night concluded, with everyone, eager, yet a little sad, that the next day was to be the last.

    The grand finale 

    The final day kicked off with all the necessary polo matches in the process before finals. After an hour's wait for the chief guest, the major sponsor of the whole event and a team, the EFG Bank, the game to decide the second and third place was played. An exhibition bicycle polo game was played between the team `Tigresses' and their husbands. The spirit in which the players played that game was evident in the loud bursts of laughter that erupted amongst all the audience whenever a fall would morph itself into a hilarious play of gestures and antics between players, and the referee.

    After a nail biting final of the elephant polo, the EFG Bank team won the tournament. The prize giving ceremony couldn't have been organised better with players, elephants, and their `mahouts' (the elephant riders), being acknowledged and presented with their respective awards. With all the games over, people were ready to enjoy the final dinner and dance. We danced away the night in merriment. The next day , before we knew, we were on our flights back to Kathmandu.

    What is Elephant Polo?
    Besides the sport, the animals and the location, for me it was the people that made it. The brilliant management at Tiger Tops, their staff, their cooks, brilliant housekeeping, the World Elephant Polo Association and all the fantastic people within that organisation, and the sponsors, that made this event. But most of all for me, the people who attended, I will miss you all, I will remember you and I will be eternally grateful to you all for showing me that life is just so much better when you are just.... HAPPY! (The author is an architect and owner of `Varun Rana Design Studio')

    Source: The Himalayan Times, 16-Dec-2013
  • Many jungle safari goers drop plans

    By HousingNepal.com →
    Chitwan:Travel trade entrepreneurs expect tourist movement in Chitwan to bounce back after the Constituent Assembly election. Arrivals have fallen at the popular jungle safari destination in southern Nepal due to the polls as visitors changed vacation plans.

    The number of tourists is down this season as a large number of potential vacationers cancelled their trips fearing trouble during the election. A slowdown in vehicular movement has also been cited as another reason for the reduced number of visitors.

    Travel traders said that a large number of planned trips to Chitwan were cancelled due to the insecure environment. About 30 percent of all the tourists visiting Nepal go on jungle safari in Chitwan.

    “Visitor arrivals in Sauraha were nominal this season. But we are optimistic that activities will pick up immediately after Tuesday’s election,” said Suman Ghimire, general secretary of the Hotel Association Nepal Regional Chapter.

    Hoteliers said that Chitwan received only 20 percent of the safari goers seen last year as of mid-November. “Due to the election and transportation shutdown, visitors have cancelled their trips this season,” said Shankar Saiju, a hotel entrepreneur. “October has also not been good in terms of hotel occupancy,” he said.

    During the same period last year, Chitwan received 700 tourists daily. Demand for hotel rooms in Chitwan would jump during October and November in the past. “But this time, almost all the hotels rooms are empty,” said Saiju, proprietor of Hotel Wildlife Camp.

    There are around 100 tourist standard hotels in Chitwan. Visitors normally spend three to seven days in Sauraha. However, the election has not had much effect on Chinese visitors, the second largest source market for Nepal.

    Entrepreneurs said that a decrease in tourism activities would likely put a dent in hit the government’s revenue collection. Chitwan National Park earned Rs 120 million from travel trade entrepreneurs last year.

    Likewise, entrepreneurs paid Rs 30 million in taxes for community forests. Around 4,000 people are directly employed in hotels and resorts in Sauraha.

    source:the kathmandu post,19 Nov 2013
  • PLACES OF INTEREST

    By HousingNepal.com →
    Nepal’s rich mosaic of cultural heritages could be likened to a precious diamond having numerous facets. The Kathmandu Valley is a treasure trove of Nepalese culture, and an important side of that culture is its architectural heritage which is represented in the numerous monuments included and preserved  within the seven monument zones in the Kathmandu Valley World Heritage Site. The valley is replete with marvelous creations in various shapes and forms of art and architecture, extending even to a small stone or a bronze statue. The fine woodcarvings in the temples and houses are well-known throughout the  world. The exquisite temples, monasteries, stupas or Chaityas, shrines, palaces, monuments and every other  architectural wonder of the valley are glorious cultural treasures of Nepal as well as a heritage of the whole of mankind.

    Kathmandu Valley houses a number of museums and art galleries displaying art work of the past and present.

    The place, which blends cultural vigor with modern facilities possible on earth is place liked by tourists been here. The place has more to offer and it is not only administrative capital of the country but to the fullest extend capital of traditional culture and physical resources.

    Link
  • Festivals & Culture

    By HousingNepal.com →
    Chhath
    Devotees worship the rising Sun (not seen in the picture) with the offerings while observing the Chhath festival at Gaurighat near the banks of Bagmati River in the Capital on Saturday.
    Photographer : eKantipur

    Pancha Ratri 
    A dancer performing 'Bajrayogini' dance during the closing ceremony of Pancha Ratri festival at Bramha Tole in the Capital on Saturday.
    Photographer : Sanjog Manandhar /eKantipur
  • Govt declares holiday from November 17-20

    By HousingNepal.com →
    The government on Monday declared public holidays from November 17 to November 20 in view of the forthcoming Constituent Assembly election.
  • Hotels in Pokhara witness booking withdrawals

    By HousingNepal.com →
    Pokhara: Along with sporadic strikes and riots taking place in the country targeting the upcoming election, Pokhara-based hotels have witnessed 15-40 percent booking cancellations for the month of November.

    Hoteliers attributed the booking withdrawls to uncertainty arising from polls scheduled for November 19.According to Rajkumar KC, director of Hotel Barahai, most of the European tourists, who were preparing to visit Nepal during November have cancelled their bookings.

    “Though we had recorded 100 percent bookings for November, 40 percent of the bookings have been cancelled.” KC said. He further added that most of tourists have cited weak security situation.
    “A thirty-member team that was visiting the hotel this November has cancelled booking. This will directly hamper our business,” KC adds.

    Similar is the case with Pokhara Grand, a five-star hotel in Pokhara. “November is regarded as the peak season in hospitality business and most of our rooms were already booked. However, 15 percent of bookings have already been cancelled and more cancellations are likely in the days to come,” said Kamal Serchan, marketing manager of the hotel.

    Likewise, 15 percent of the bookings for November at Sangrila Hotel have also been withdrawn. According to Gupt Giri, front office manager of the hotel, international tourists have cancelled their bookings after the 33-party alliance announced a 10-day banda prior to the elections.

    Moreover, Giri said tourists have cancelled bookings for December as well. “Sporadic clashes and announcement of banda has frightened the tourists,” Giri added.Hoteliers have opined that announcement of bandas during election will not only hamper the hospitality business but will leave a negative impact on the overall tourism industry. They have urged the government to create favorable environment for visiting tourists during the election period.

    source:republica,9 Nov 2013
  • Nepal's stall major attraction at WTM

    By HousingNepal.com →
    The World Travel Market (WTM) - a global event for travel industry - proved fruitful for Nepal at a time when tourist arrivals have declined.

    According to Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), the four day long travel and tourism exchange platform that took place in London proved beneficial for Nepal´s tourism entrepreneurs as they were able to strike new business deals and strengthen their network.

    The Nepal Stand at WTM 2013, spread in an area of 131 square meters was unique compared to the modern design of other participating countries. According to NTB, thematic intricate wood carving of Nepali Pagoda style temple adorned with Buddhist prayer flags attracted global tourism professionals. The artifact was a unique in that it helped highlight tourist destinations in Nepal.

    NTB along with 17 tourism related companies from Nepal: Yeti Travels, Himalayan Guides Nepal Treks & Expeditions, Amadablam Adventures, Hotel Annapurna/Fish Tail Lodge, Explore Himalaya Travel and Adventure, Dharma Adventures, Icefall Adventures, Malla Travels and Trek Services, Intertours Nepal, Himalaya Kailash Travels & Tours, Shangri-La Hotel & Resort, Everest Summit Lodges, The Malla Hotel, Outdoor Expeditions, Jungle Safari Lodge, Trek Nepal Int´l and The Explore Nepal participated in the four day long fair that concluded on Thursday.

    Manohar SJB Rana, CEO of Yeti Travels said that the networking sessions, demonstrations, meeting with fresh buyers and renewal of business contacts were the major activities carried out during the fair. “Though our representatives have not returned home, these are the major achievements,” said Rana.
    Besides, Nepalis companies, WTM witnessed participation of 189 countries with more than 5,000 exhibitors and 50,000 participants facilitating 2 billion GBP industry deals this year.

    According to NTB, WTM this year also remained an ideal platform for tourism-related discussions, sharing of views and experiences on the current global travel trend, travel technology.

    Travel trade companies from Nepal renewed their business contacts and struck new business deals. The Nepalis delegation at WTM was led by the Secretary of Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Chairman of NTB- Sushil Ghimire.

    Secretary Ghimire said Nepal is a safe, beautiful and tourist friendly destination for the visitors. Citing the urgency of mitigating the impact of climate change and the garbage problem in the Himalayas, Ghimire also focused on investment opportunities in the tourism sector in Nepal.

    Similarly, Nepali Ambassador to UK Suresh Chalise thanked British summiteers -- Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Alan Hinkes, Kenton Cool and David Helplemans Adams -- for promoting Nepal through mountaineering and highlighted the age old relationships between the two countries.
    Likewise, Chief Executive Officer of Nepal Tourism Board Subhash Niroula shed light on the steady growth of visitors to Nepal, its greatest tourism attributes -- nature, culture, adventure and many more -- making it a complete holiday getaway, according to NTB.

    “Niroula also stressed on the need of close coordination between Nepal Embassy, Nepal Tourism Board and travel trade fraternity both from UK and Nepal for tourism promotion in UK,” NTB said.

    source: republica,8 Nov 2013
  • Mohit Chauhan live in concert in Kathmandu, Ticket Price

    By HousingNepal.com →
    Award-winning Bollywood playback singer Mohit Chauhan, who is much loved for his romantic ballads, is all set to rock the Kathmandu audience on November 30 at Tundikhel.The proceedings of the event, which is being organized by the Nepalese Army Wives Association, will go toward building a vocational training center aimed at empowering the wives of the Nepali army men.

    According to Desal Lama, Proprietor of The Premiere Events which is managing the event, popular Nepali singer Nima Rumba and the reggae group Joint Family Internationale will also be performing at the concert which will be opened by a 15-minute-long performance by the Nepal Army Band.

    The price of the tickets for the concert starts at Rs 500, and are available at various outlets in Durbar Marg, Boudha, Lazimpat, Jhamsikhel, Thamel, Civil Mall in Sundhara, New Baneshwar, Koteshwar, Naxal, New Road and Pokhara.

    click the link below for Event details
    Mohit Chauhan live in concert in Kathmandu
  • Dhampus: Trekking in nature's paradise

    By HousingNepal.com →
    Dhampus: Gateway to the popular and picturesque Annapurna Base Camp
    One fine morning in February this year, a colleague asked me, “Why don’t you join us on a trip to Dhampus?” My smile, I guess, displayed acceptance of the proposal. And a short conversation culminated in a trip. Time crept at a snail’s pace and my eagerness grew to reach Dhampus and Pokhara. It was a six-hour trip from Kathmandu to Pokhara and still required two whole hours to reach Dhampus, a touristic paradise with abundant natural beauty.

    Dhampus, an unspoiled village, is located at an altitude of 1,800 metres above sea level in Kaski district in the Annapurna region. The majestic Himalayan peaks like Annapurna, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri and a panoramic view of Pokhara make this place surreal, giving visitors their most lasting impression. It is popular for its local brandy and Gurung staple food. The Rodhi dance, a typical Gurung cultural dance, is another attraction of this village.

    Dhampus is also the gateway to the popular and picturesque Annapurna Base Camp. It takes a 45minute drive from Pokhara to reach the starting point of the Dhampus trek. From there, it is a two hours’ walk to reach Dhampus hill. The hill welcomes trekkers with mesmerising views of the mountains and hosts some great hotels and lodges with very modern amenities. Our struggle to reach Dhampus hill ended with the welcoming retreat of delicious local food, a dance performance and finally a good night’s sleep.

    Next morning, the sun awoke us with its warm rays peeping through the curtains and alluring us with the most stunning views. The snowcapped Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains, when touched by the first rays of sunlight, glisten in natural beauty and are breathtakingly beautiful.

    With abundant natural resources and scenic views, Dhampus is developing as a tourist hot spot. As it lies on the main trekking route to Annapurna Base Camp, it enjoys economic prosperity. All the houses are constructed to attract tourists. The number of hotels outnumbers houses and many locals work as tourist guides. The major occupation of these local people is tourism-related activities.

    As we left Dhampus for Pokhara, the mild breeze between the pine trees gave us a soothing and refreshing feel as we descended the rocky slopes. Not accustomed to walking on such rocky trails, we took our time. After about 40 minutes downhill, picturesque Pokhara lay ahead of us. The everenchanting Pokhara mesmerised us with its beautiful landscape, lakes, mountain views, comfortable and cosy accommodation and huge number of activities to indulge in. Many of us never felt like returning to Kathmandu.

    Source:-Saroj Devkota ,The Himalayan Times, 1-Nov-2013
  • Hiking Options around the Valley

    By HousingNepal.com →
    Kathmandu Valley and its surrounding areas offer perfect day hikes for those with a desire for hiking or easy trekking in Nepal. The valley offers some excellent short treks and walks just outside the urban sprawl of the city. Without having to go very far, you can experience nature, culture and the traditional way of life in Nepal on these hikes that can be completed in a day.

    Champadevi

    Hiking to Champadevi is an Exhitarating experience. The trail is an opportunity to experience nature and culture at its best. Starting from Pharping village and rummaging around for the cultural experience of pharping, you start walking uphill through pine forest. However, the trail is quite steep, the reward is a panoramic view of Taudaha and Kathmandu, when you reach the top. It takes about two to three hours to reach the hilltop. Monsoon may not be the best tie to hike, but it sure is the time to relish lush greenery! Visit during September through October for spectacular mountain views.

    Getting there: Youy can take the bus from Old Bus Park to Pharping, from where your hike starts. Or you can choose walk from Kritipur.

    Phulchowki

    Known as a trekker’s paradise, the country boasts of breathtaking trekking options. However, you need not always travel to remote places to experience their glory. Located about 16 km southeast of Kathmandu Valley and perched at a height of 2,800 metres, Phulchowki is a three-to-four-hour hike from Godavari. Starting from the invigorating greenery of Godavari, you ascend upward to reach the hilltop. Passing through lush green forest, you can watch different types of birds. When you reach hilltop, you get to enjoy a surreal view of rolling hills and Kathmandu valley. If you want to enjoy snowfall, visit during winter.

    Getting there: You can take a bus from Lagankhel Bus Park. It takes around half an hour by bus to reach Godavari.

    Namobuddha
    A beautiful Monastery located about 38 km east of Kathmandu at an elevation of 1,750 meters, Namobuddha is one of the important pilgrimage sites for Hindus and Buddhist in Nepal. Starting from Dhulikhel, you can enjoy panoramic views of the hillside, terraced rice fields and pass through Tamang communities. After a three-hour walk from Dhulikhel, you reach haven of peace and tranquility. Several stupas and montesary provide a spiritual vibe to the place while you can enjoy a commanding view of the hills.

    Getting there: Buses to Dhulikhel ply from Old Bus Park.

    Shivapuri Hill

    Hiking to Shivapuri takes about four to five hours uphill from Budhanilkantha. Located at a height of 2,563 meters north from Kathmandu, the trail passes through lush forest of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. Once you enter the main gate of the national park, soothing sound of birds overcome the maddening crowd of the city. Deeper into the forest, you reach Baghwar, the main source of Bagmati and one of the important holy sites of Hindus. You should walk about half an hour further to reach the hilltop. Since the hike is through the conservation area, there are no shops or restaurants, so do not forget to carry some fast food and water.

    Getting there: You can get transportation to Budhanilkantha from Sundhara.
  • Hiking to Dahachowk

    By HousingNepal.com →
    Enchanting and attractive natural beauty
    Dahachowk, located merely five kilometers northwest of Kalanki in Kathmandu, is quite an enchanting and attractive site for its natural beauty. It takes only one-and-a-half hous to reach Indradaha from Baad Bhanjyang. Passing through the community forest of Pataleban, though a moderately challenging hike, it is quite pleasant with the chirping of birds and fresh air. Pataleban, which literally translates to ‘thin forest’, shelters many bird species such as kalij pheasant, almpuchhre, cuckoo, et cetera and you get to spot deer and monkeys, if you are lucky enough.

    After a 40- minute walk uphill through the forest, you come to a plateau, which looks like green carpet because of the grass. The view on the way to the hilltop becomes increasingly breathtaking with every ascending step. At the top, you will be greeted by the sight of mesmerizing green hills and you can see as far as Dhading, Kritipur and Kathmandu. Visit during winter for Spectacular Mountain views Lantang, Ganesh and Manaslu.

    From there, it takes 30 minutes more to reach Dahachowk. The main attractions of the place are the Indradaha (daha means pond in Nepali), Manakamana temple and the grave of KAji Kalu Pandey. Rich in natural beauty, Dahachowk also has historical and cultural significance. Going by the folklore, it is said that during satya yuga (the era of truth), the King of Heaven, Indra descended upon th e pond and took a bath there. Hance, it is believed that one can get rid of any diseases by taking bath in the pond. In fact, the Indradaha bathing fair is held every year on Bhadra Shulkla Purnima (full moon day in the month of Bhadra.)

    The grave of Kaji Kalu Pandey is a historic site which lies at the highest site of Dahachowk, at 10 minutes’ walking distance from Indredaha. Kaji Kalu Pandey, who died during the unification of Nepal, wished to be buried at Dahachowk from where Gorkha can be viewed. It is said that Prithivi Narayan Shah built Manakamana of Gorkha district for attaining power to defeat the rulers of Kathmandu valley, along with Parsa of Nuwakot, Dhading and Gorkha.
    Dahachowk has a mixed settlement of Tamangs, Magars, Brahmins and Chhetris.

    Travel requirement
    Hiking Shoes, sunscreen, hat or cap, water, sun glasses, wet tissue and dry tissue
    Travel Tips
    If you are planning to hike in the monsoon season, beware of leeches and slippery hiking trails. Scrubbing salt on your legs can help get rid of Leeches

    Best time to visit

    Hiking from June through August is ideal due to blooming orchids, while March till April is the best time when blooming rhododendrons dot the scenery. Visit during October through November for spectacular mountain views.

    Source: The Himalayan Times, Trevel & Lifestyle, 12-Sep-2013
  • Boderlands Eco Adventure Resort : The right blends of adventure and serenity

    By HousingNepal.com →
    Boderlands Eco Adventure Resort will satisfy your need for adventure and nature
    After two weeks of hectic back-to-back work, I really needed a break from my schedule – somewhere not far from Kathmandu but where I could easily unwind. After a search around for the right place, I decided to head out to Boderlands Eco Adventure Resort (BEAR), which is a three-hour drive from Kathmandu for a dose of adventure and peace. So, last weekend, along with a lively group of college students, I took off to BEAr, hoping to find what I was looking for.

    At the end of the bumpy bus ride through beautiful landscapes, we reached the resort. Well-manicured grass, plenty of greenery and the rushing sound of the Bhotekhoshi River raging on beside the resort, had me convinced that I’d made the right choice.

    For accommodation, there are altogether 18 tents, with nine of them having four beds in each to accommodate people coming in groups. And for those who seek a little privacy and time out, there are nine tents with twin beds scattered around the property. The laidback Arniko bar cum dining hall, is the perfect place to relax, put up your feet and enjoy a drink at the end of a long day. For those seeking clam and tranquility, BEAR with its serene natural setting is sure to work wonders on you. It’s the right place to meditate or simply laze around. All in all, it’s the perfect getaway destination amidst a beautiful setting and what makes it even better is the staff who are friendly, helpful and fun.

    Canyoning

    Since I was the only one doing canyoning that day, Megh Ale, founder of TBEASR – much to the delight of college students  - gave away two free canyoning vouchers to two lucky winners. After a quick lunch, the three of us along with Bobby, the main guide and his assistant, Ishwor and Prasanna, a staff of BEAR boarded the bus. After a five-minute bus ride, all of us carrying our wet suits and safety gears on our backs hiked our way to the first canyoning spot. The trail, though littered with leeches, took us through terraced rice fields with breathtaking views of the nearby terraced hills and the beautiful Bhotekoshi raging below. We reached the first canyoning spot after a good 20 minutes’ hike and donned our wet suits, helmets and harness followed by a brief instruction on safety measures from Bobby.

    Since I was the only one who had done canyoning before, I volunteered to make the descent first. When the necessary safety checks were done, I held on to the rope and jumped. Although the fear factor was not there this time around, it was the same rush of adrenaline and excitement that I’d felt the first time canyoning. The first decent was quite easy and all of us did a great job of it. The second canyon was quite slippery and fun but the third and the last one was not only the longest descent with the highest water-flow but also the most exciting and fun. It was the highlight of the three descents and the most adrenaline pumping. By the time all of us had made the descent, it was already dusk. Though tired, cold and well bitten by leeches all over, the feeling of successfully descending canyons was simply out of his world.
    Tips:
    > Wear shoes with good grips
    > There are plenty of leeches so come prepared

    Hiking
    After the adrenaline rush of canyoning, a two-hour short hike to Nagpujay gaun was planned for us the following morning to explore the area. We started the hike at 6:30 am with Megh Ale himself as our guide. After a short walkby the highway, we walked downhill to cross a shaky suspension bridge, followed by another 15 minute uphill hike through rice and millet fields.

    Nagpujay Gaun is a sleepy typical village nestled in the lap of a gigantic hill and offers the most beautiful view of the winding highway, hills and the serpentine Bhotekoshi River. Throughout the hike, Ale told us interesting fats about the village and history of the area that dates back to Nepal-Tibet war, while also reminding us about the fragile nature of the location and the importance to preserve it. This early morning hike, called the ‘Break-fast Hike’ sure had me famished and feasting on the breakfast that awaited us at the resort was a sheer joy.

    My Verdict

    What was a hasty decision for a quite and quick getaway to BEAR turned out to be surprisingly fulfilling with the immense potential it has to offer. Beautiful natural setting, plenty of adventure options and BEAR’s involvement in protecting the area and supporting local schools and communities – it’s a resort with a big heart that’s definitely worth visiting again.

    Source: Tsering Ngodup Lama, The Himalayan Times, Travel and Lifestyle,10-Oct-2013
  • Naturally Beautiful- Tansen

    By HousingNepal.com →
    Tansen, a picturesque hill town lying on the lap of the spectacular Srinagar Hills, is also the headquarter of Palpa district. The charming natural setting combine with its rich cultural heritage give visitors a whole-some holiday. Located at an elevation of 1,310 meters, Tansen has spectacular panoramic view of the Himalayas as well as the plains of Terai. The town could be visited any time of the year due to its pleasant weather.

    Srinagar Hill
    Srinagar hill is one of the most picturesque areas in the entire Palpa region. About an hour uphill from the town centre, one can not only enjoy a breath-taking panoramic view of the Himalayas running from Dhaulagiri in the west to Gauri Shanker in the northeast, but also take pleasure in passing through peaceful forest, pine plantation, deciduous forest with a lot of beautiful rhododendron flowers and panoramic view of Tansen town. There is a statue of Buddha at the eastern end of Srinagar ridge. It takes about half-an-hour to reach this statue. Thai monks donated the Buddha statue. It commemorates a part of Buddha’s life.

    Tansen Durbar
    This former palace of the provincial governer, built by the then Western Commander in –Chief, Pratap Shamsher in 1927, is a grand imposing palace in the heart of the town. Once it was the seat of the Rana goveners, the Durber is now the district secretariat of Palpa district.

    Ramdi
    A half-day walk through fertile landscape and terraced rice fields lead to Ramdi on the banks of the Kali Gandaki River. Ramdi is a ‘Ghat’(cremation place) where people bring their deceased relatives for their final rites. Besides this, Ramdi is famous for its cavew temples, where farmers from surrounding villages offer milk to appease the gods to protect their cattle from leopards and jackals.

    Ranighat

    The ancient building (palace) is set on a massive rock bed at the bank of the Kali Gandaki river. This palace was built in 1892 by governer Khadka Shamser in memory of his wife Tej Kumari, and is often called the “Taj Mahal of Nepal”.

    Amar Narayan Temple

    This temple is a traditional three-tiered pagoda-style temple built in 1806. It has well carved doors and has some intricate woodwork of erotic figures on the roof struts. Considered to be one of the most beautiful temples outside of the Kathmandu Valley, it was built by Amar Singh Thapa, who annexed Tansen to become part of Nepal.

    Taksar
    Taksar is another interesting place in the town where for centuries the famous bronze and brass works of Tansen were produced. One can have a look at how the famous ancient articles such as karuwa(water jug), hukka(water pipe), auntee(jug for Nepali brandy), et cetera are produced.

    Fast Facts
    Languages spoken: Nepali is understood by most while Magar is also widely spoken
    Climate: Tansen’s climate is moderate and pleasant. The temperature does not rise above 28 degree Celsius during summer and it doesnot fall below 8 degree Celsius during winter.
    Views of Himalayan peaks: kanjiroba, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna and Langtang Himal
    Accommodation: There are budgets hotels and lodges
    Communication: Telephone, wireless internet and postal service

    Getting there

    Tansen is approximately 296 kilometers and about 10-hour drive from Kathmandu via Butwal. It is approximately 324 kilometers from Kathmandu via Pokhara. Buses to Tansen ply from Gongabu bus station in Kathmandu. It is also possible to take a flight to either Pokhara or Bhairawa from where Tansen is approximately three-to-four hour drive.

    Source: The Himalayan Times, Travel & Lifestyle, 13-June-2013
  • Road trip from Kathmandu to Kalimpong

    By HousingNepal.com →
    Nothing but the highway as company, cool air on my face and ever changing landscapes... a boyhood dream was realised

    The 350 cc engine roared, breaking the calm of the late October dawn, as my brother and I got all set to go on a bike trip from Kathmandu to Kalimpong, India. It had taken a lot of persuasion and coaxing my mother to let us take this road trip. Being a big fan of Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman's motorcycle journey television series Long Way Round, I'd always wanted to do something similar. And here I was, finally, ready to experience the same thrill and perhaps also the excitement of possible danger that comes along as man and machine head out on the highway .

    Day 1: Kathmandu to Dharan At 4:00 am, while the city lay asleep, we set out on our journey with the goal to reach Kakarvitta, the eastern border, before nightfall. The quickest way to reach the destination was to take the Dakshinkali-Kulekhani road to Hetauda. We had an early breakfast near Khulekhani and after a few hours into the journey, we reached Hetauda, where we made the necessary checks on our bike to ensure that our best friend for the trip would not betray us down the road.

    The hills on the horizon slowly started to disappear and the temperature started rising as we passed Hetauda. The roads got a lot smoother and straighter and I was left amazed by how, after every few kilometres, people and culture changed. A quick stop for lunch somewhere near Lahan gave us a taste of terrible highway food. As exhaustion had started creeping in and Kakarvitta was still a long way to go, a nap under the trees hidden away from the afternoon scorching sun, a few kilometres after Jhapa, was truly blissful.


    By the time we reached the Koshi Barrage, it was already late afternoon and reaching Kakarvitta before dark didn't seem possible. On reaching Itahari, we decided to head to Dharan instead for the night and on reaching there, all that was on our mind was a warm shower, a delicious meal (Dharane Pork BBQ, which truly lived up to its fame) and a good night's sleep.

    Day 2: Dharan to Kakarvitta The next morning, Dharan greeted us with a beautiful cool day and since Kakarvitta wasn't really that far off anymore, we rode off to the famous Charles Tower in Bhedetar, a 20-minute ride from Dharan. The air was crisp, and the view, absolutely beautiful. After a quick re-check of our bike, it was time to hit the road again and as we reached Kakarvitta, it was late afternoon.

    After hotel check-in and currency exchange, we retired for the night, excited that we would be riding on Indian highways, come tomorrow morning.

    Day 3 and 4: Kakarvitta to Darjeeling to Kalimpong -the road trip was finally international As soon as the border office opened for the day, we filled up the necessary paper work. From Siliguri, we took the highway to Darjeeling and by afternoon amidst much traffic mayhem (it was prime time for tourists from the plains to head for the hills, so we couldn't have picked a better time!), we reached the `Queen of the Hills'. Upon arrival, it struck us that not making prior hotel reservation was a big blunder, as every other hotel we went to was packed. A few hours later, we met a guy who arranged a place (a dingy one obviously) for an exorbitant price -a price we paid for being careless.


    On our first day, we rode the toy train (the very one which you see in all the Hindi films that are filmed in Darjeeling), hung out at Chowrasta, the most happening place in the town (it's a sin not to go there when you visit the town) and ended the evening watching a movie at the town's only mall, Rink Mall.

    The next day, we went for a ride on the ropeway known as `Rangeet Valley Passenger Cable Car' and were rewarded with beautiful views of tea gardens, rivers and mountains in the backdrop. As afternoon came, we were on the road again to Kalimpong.

    Winding roads that twist and bend into hills, small settlements that appear out of nowhere, lush green tea gardens, and amazing mountain views followed us almost all the way to Kalimpong.
    By late afternoon, we had reached our destination. fternoon, we had reached our destination.

    For lunch, we stopped by a tiny restaurant on a friend's recommend ation. He had sworn by their pork momos. And boy, oh boy, were they delicious! After a hearty lunch, we went to the famous Deolo Hill, for a serene view of the hills and the Teesta River, which you can see from the top. The four-day road trip from Kathmandu to Kalimpong was a pure joy, which ended sooner than I'd have liked. Four days with nothing but the highway as company, cool air on my face and ever changing landscapes, it was a boyhood dream come true. The people and places that we came across and the beauty of the nature left a lasting impression. The joy and overwhelming feeling of fulfilling a long cherished dream still linger on my mind.

    -Tsering Ngodup Lama

    Source: The Himalayan Times, 24 Oct 2013
    Photo Courtesy :  The Himalayan Times, Oct 24 2013
  • Baraha Pokhari, Trekking to God’ s Garden

    By HousingNepal.com →
    "I've never seen so many colours of rhododendrons at one place anywhere else"

    My hike to Baraha Pokhari last year had me spellbound by the sheer natural beauty of the place. A beautiful lake nestled amidst lush greenery at an altitude of more than 3,100 metres, Baraha Pokhari is surrounded by huge mountains -Himalchuli, Boudha Himal, Manaslu, Annapurna and even Machhapuchhre. With different coloured rhododendron trees in the vicinity, it is an ideal spot for a retreat, contemplation and meditation. The reflection of mountains and trees on its pristine waters had me mesmerised and instilled a deep connection with nature. The nearby Baraha temple adds to the religious significance of the place, especially for Hindus and Bon religion followers.

    An annul fair is organised here on the occasion of Baishak Purnima (Nepali New Year, which falls around mid-April), when locals take on this challenging trek to make offerings to the goddess of Baraha temple and to take a dip in the lake, which is believed to fulfil wishes and heal aliments. I revisited the lake on Baisakh Purnima this year with memories from last year’s trek still fresh in my mind.

    After trekking for 14 hours from Phaliyasangu, we reached Baraha Pokhari
    around 10:30 pm, completely exhausted. But the place was lively with music, chants and people praying -making the place seem like something out of this world. If you're thinking of trekking to Baraha Pokhari, heed my advice and don't try to do it in one day, like we did. Take the trek over two days -you'll enjoy it more! We pitched our tents in the dark near the edge of the lake and straightaway hit the sack. But the singing and dancing continued way into the night and so, it wasn't the most peaceful environment. The following morn ing, I woke up and saw the lake was as beautiful as it was the last time I was there.

    But to my disappointment, the sky was overcast. Thick fog had engulfed the whole place, blocking the view of the mountains. Dejected, I retreated to my tent and prayed to the godess Baraha for good weather.

    I guess the goddess was listening, because when I peeked out again after some time, the fog had disappeared and the visibility was much better. I could see the lake, pilgrims queuing up, women in red saris — a photography opportunity that I couldn’t pass up! The good weather lasted for a few minutes and I made the best of it.

    It was enough for me to soak in the beauty of this place and capture its magical moments forever through my lens.

    Unexplored Potential 
    Baraha Pokhari, with its striking natural beauty, religious and cultural importance, has huge potential as a major short trek destination. Though much of Nepal's trekking routes have been cut short with the expansion of road networks, the same might not be possi ble here due to the challenging terrain of this trail. So, lace your boots, pack your bags and head to Phaliyasangu in Lamjung for a trek to a place that I call `God's Garden'. -Devendra Babu Tiwari (The author is a tourism entrepreneur from Lamjung who, besides promoting Lamjung as a tourist destination, also promotes eco-tourism and perma-culture in the region)

    Source: The Himalayan Times, Oct 24 2013
    Photo Courtesy :  The Himalayan Times, Oct 24 2013
  • Peri Peri the Restaurant & Tamarind Restro & Bar

    By HousingNepal.com →
    Peri Peri the Restaurant
    Jhamsikhel
    Opposite Army CHIEF’S Residence
    PORTUGUESE
    Peri Peri has a large garden dotted with pretty flowers, which are cleverly used to divide the seating arrangements. Try their Peri Peri Chicken along with choosen liquor from the small bar that serves imported and domestic liquor. Also delicious are the Chicken Nuggets, which you can dip into exotic Peri Peri Sauce. Other dishes are marinated in this sauce. The restaurant will deliver food to your home if you live around 1 km. Live music is occasionally arranged. You can surf the net on their WI-FI facility free of cost. It has a chain in the Central Food Court at Civil Mall.
    Timing: 1:00pm to 10:00pm
    Landline: 01-5555406
    Mobile: 9808563803
    Contact Person: Satish Pradhan
    Email: satish20@hotmail.com
    Seating: Indoor, Outdoor, Garden and Rooftop for 70
    Meal for two (excluding liquor): Rs.700 + VAT +SC
    Price of Beverage: Rs.60 to Rs.450 + VAT + SC
    Last Drink: 9:30 pm
    Credit Card: No
    Parking: 9 Four- and 15 two-wheelers

    Tamarind Restro & Bar
    Pulchowk
    Opposite ST MARY’S School
    MULTI-CUISINE
    The air-conditioned interiors of Tamarind are tangy enough to refresh you, but not cluttered- the décor is minimalistic, if anything. The seating arrangements are assorted. We recommend their Tamarind Special Punch and Lamb Chop. The place is well-known for its seafood, and also serves domestic and imported liquor of superior quality. Live music is played every Friday evening and buffets are arranged as per the request of customers. They provide up to 15 per cent discount to regular patrons and have a separate play area for children.
    Timing: 8:00am to 10:00pm
    Landline: 01-5522626
    Mobile: 9841877588
    Contact person: Resham Gurung
    Seating: Indoor and Garden for 100
    Meal for two (excluding liquor): Rs.1300 + VAT + SC
    Price of Beverage: Rs.60 to Rs.300 + VAT + SC
    Last Drink: 10:00pm
    Credit Card: VISA, MasterCard, SCT
    Parking: 8 four- and 10 two-wheelers
  • Bamboo Grove Health Club

    By HousingNepal.com →
    This health club has a well equipped gym, steam and sauna, a swimming pool (children’s pool as well), a children’s play area and a badminton court. Other items include aerobics and personal fitness training. Towels are complimentary and children of members under 3 years can join for free. The center also has food and beverage service.

    Categories
    > Badminton
    > Swimming
    > A & B
    > Spa (steam, sauna & shower)
    > A &D OR B & D
    > Badminton & spa
    > Gym Only
    > Full membership (Swimming, Spa, Gym & Badminton)
  • Exploring Balthali

    By HousingNepal.com →
    Experience the best multi-day treks without high attitude
    They say the best thing in life happen when you don’t really plan them out. A recent unplanned trip to Balthali village fits the saying perfectly. After reaching Khopasi from Panauti, we were told we would have to hike for 45 minutes to reach the village, as only 4WD SUVs could take on the monsoon hit graveled road that link Khopasi to the village. Left with nooption, we decided to hike. We had no clue that this would turn out to be the best unplanned trip ever.

    Hike to Balthali
    Getting off the bus after a bumpy 15- minutes ride from Panauti to Khopasi, was a huge relief. After a five minute walk from Khopasi Bazaar, we reached Jhulungey Pul, a shaky suspension bridge above the noisy and muddy Roshi Khola and this is where the hiking trail starts. The trail traverses though forest of pine trees, green rice and corn fields and offers rustic sights of live-stock grazing lazily under the afternoon sun. The fresh crisp rural air was filled with the chirping of birds and crickets, the trail included climbing uphill and down hill, time and again revealing beautiful landscapes of distant villages, green terraced fields and rolling green hills, leaving us awestruck. After 45 minutes, we reached Balthali village, where we spent the night at a resort.

    Divine Cave
    After a good night’s sleep, the next day’s hike was to Ladkeshwor temple, one-and-a-half hour hike from the resort. The trail meanders through villages with curious little kids more than happy to pose for a photograph. The trail winds downhill at the end of the village and pine trees replaces village houses and the muddy Roshi khola raging on our left and the clear pristine Ladku khola on our right surfaces on the trail. When the descend ended, it was time to roll up our pants, take off our shoes and wade cross the Ladku khola. After crossing the river, the trail runs along the river bank all the way to the temple. More than a typical temple, Ladkeshwor temple is small cave with four Shivalingas sitting right beside the river. Even if you are not the religious kind, make this hike just for the sheer beauty the trail offers.

    Namo Buddha hike

    Since it was an unplanned trip, we didn’t gat the time to hike to Namo Buddha. A hiking guide at the resort informed us this hike is spectacular and the reason Balthali treks got mentioned in Lonely Planet’s, ‘The world’s best multi*day treks without high altitude’. According to him the hike passes through thickly forested areas with an abundance of flora and beautiful rural village settings. The three-hour hike from the resort is definitely on my list when I visit this area again.

    Swimming between the hills
    No, Balthali doesn’t have swimming pools but it’s got much better options – the clear and pristine Ladku khola that bends and twists through beautiful green hills. The villagers claim that one can even drink the water directly from the river; I am not so sure about that but it sure is fantastic place to swim, the good ol’ way. So when you plan for a trip here, pack a swim suit as well.

    Apart from hikes
    Located at an altitude of 1,650 metres above sea level, Balthali is blessed with picture perfect landscape. Green terraced fields that stretch as far as eye can see, tiny houses that dot the nearby rolling green hills all make Balthali seem like a place taken right out of a postcard. When the sun sets and the surrounding villages light up, it seems like onje big extension of the starry night sky. The village’s quaint and isolated location also makes it a perfect place for those seeking a quiet retreat to rejuvenate and soak in the peace and calm.

    Where to stay in Balthali
    Balthali Village Resort (BVR), a tourist standard resort, is the only hospitality property in Balthali village. The tourist standard resort sits atop a hill on a plateau with a commanding view of the surrounding green terraced fields, hills dotted with houses and faint hues of Himalayan peaks to the north, if it is not that cloudy.

    Accommodation
    There are 25 floor carpeted rooms, each attached with western style toilet and bath with running hot and cold water. Out of the total rooms, 13 are deluxe rooms and 12 are standard. The deluxe rooms are slightly more spacious, with slightly bigger twin beds. The beds are decent and comfortable and as amenities, each room has a small wardrobe and a flask to store hot water.
    If you expect clean rooms with comfortable beds, you won’t be disappointed.

    Restaurant and food
    As for the food, it was surprisingly scrumptious. The alu jeera, Chicken chilly and mutton curry was delicious and relished after all that hiking. The resort’s restaurant serves Nepali, Indian, Chinese and Continental dishes and the bar is well stockedwith local as well as imported liquor.
    Dine at the resort’s semi-outdoor dining hall to enjoy a great view of nearby hills and villages. Since the resort is surrounded by farmland, most of the vegetables and fruits are sourced from these farms. So, whatever is served on your plate is naturally quite fresh.

    Service
    The staff may not be dressed up in formal uniforms, but they sure are friendly and down to earth helpful. Most of the staff at the resort are young lads with not much experience in hospitality but their genuine friendliness and desire to serves make up for all the other small shortcomings. The resort’s hike guides are patient and informative.

    Activities
    Located right in the middle of Balthali Village, BVR is a perfect place to explore the village. It is an ideal staging point for hikes in the area. A hike to Namo Buddha takes just three hours, while Ladkeshwor temple is one-and-a-half-hour away. Danda Gaun is a four-hour hike from the resort and you can go swimming at the nearby Ladku Khola. There are plenty of other small hikes that you can take to explore the area. The hilltop location is also good for bird and butterfly watching. If you are planning to hold a seminar in a quaint and peaceful ambience, BVR has a seminar hall with a capacity to host 50 people.

    Getting there
    Take a public bus from the Old Bus park to Khopasi via Panauti. From there it’s a 45-minute to one hour hike to Balthali and if you are taking a vehicle, it is a 25-minute bumpy ride from Khopasi.

    Must haves:

    > Sunglasses
    > Sun-block cream
    > Hat/Cap
    > Comfortable walking shoes
    > Camera

    Money Talk
    A one-night and two days’ package with all three meals, including guides for treks around Balthali Village will cost Rs.2,200 per person on twin sharing basis. For details on their packages, contact: 01-4108210
  • 100 Things to do in Kathmandu

    By HousingNepal.com →
    Home is the name, a strong word. Home is a place where definitions seem inadequate to contain the sense of belonging. For many of us, hereon the foothills, home is Kathmandu. It is the catacombs of Asan riddled with noise and footsteps of thousands that thread those narrow streets each day. A haven nestled in the lap of the nature guarded by temples and deities. It is the bustling squares where people spend their mornings and nights comfortable and content watching time go by. IT is where we want to be, where the mudane touches our hearts. If given 00 days in the valley, we would spend most of it marveling at the little things, and the rest discovering another 100 days worth of things to do.

    1.    Garden of Dreams
    Enjoy tranquility and peace in the Garden of Dreams while basking in the sun. One can enjoy the pictures of the original garden of dreams which housed six pavilions or get some privacy in the hidden nooks and crannies of this pictorial paradise.

    2.    Rickshaw  Ride
    The thrill of navigating the alleyways of Kathmandu coupled with scenic views of hidden treasures, a rickshaw ride around Thamel will ensure that you get the full experience of the vibrant mixture of traditional Nepali culture and modern lifestyle.

    3.    Kaiser Library
    A private-turned- public library, the Kaiser Library was established in 1969 A.D. as a memorial for Kaiser S.J.B Rana. With over 50,000 books and artifacts, art, olden photograph, painting, one can dive into the wealth of books surrounded by regal elegance and antiquity.

    4.    Thanka School

    Thanka, a form of Buddhist art that requires immense skill and patience, is usually neatly displayed in the alleyways of Thamel and New Road. You might also get a chance to come across a Thanka School, a place where artists painstakingly create the masterpiece of detailed and intricate art through days of hard work. Chat up with an artist and learn more about constitutes a thanka when you visit one of these schools.

    5.    Tridevi Temple
    Most people do not notice a small temple to the left while entering Thamel but it houses three goddesses that have given their name to the street that leads to the heart of Thamel –Tridevi Marg. The temple houses Dakshinkali, Manakamana, and Jwalamai, and has recently been renovated from its dire state.

    6.    Narayanhiti Durbar Museum
    If you’ve not been to the Palace museum, we recommend that you do so right now. You get the chance of witness firsthand the jewels of the former royal palace while your imagination runs wild as you try to ponder how it would be like to live like a king.

    7.    Rum Doodle
    A stop for all trekkers who come to Nepal, Rum Doodle has garnered international recognition as a must-go destination for trekkers. With delicious food, amicable ambience, and those recognizably signed yeti feet, Rum Doodle offers visitors a chance to reminisce old times with good food and great company.

    8.    Bhagwan Bahal
    Most people may not know about unique temple just a minute’s walk from the buzzing heart of Thamel. Post and pans are nailed to the walls of the temple as a remembrance of deceased loved ones in this unique temple.

    9.    Tibet Book Stores
    Buddhist scriptures, prayer flags, incense, and prayer wheels along with the largest collection of books about the history of Buddhism, the Tibet book stores that scatter around Thamel house an immense wealth of knowledge and wisdom. Drop into any one and enjoy tranquility and peace with the smell of incense and sound of Buddhist hymns.

    10.    Kumari House
    Visit the house of the living goddess Kumari at Basantapur and if you’re lucky , you will even get to go catch glimpse of this wonderfully powerful maiden. The Kumari Ghar was made as a shrine for the living goddess and is intricately carved and designed from the inside by exquisite newari wood workers from the past era.

    11.    Send a Nepali Postcard
    Bring back a crowd favorite from the past and give someone one of the unique and colorful postcards that adorn most of the roadside shops in Kathmandu’s alleys. Be in the mighty Himalayas, the green plains of the tarai, tigers, elephant or even a smoking sadhu, choose to remember Nepal your way by sending postcard to your loved one.

    12.    Bowling Boulevard
    The first bowling alley in Kathmandu, Bowling Boulevard has been providing service to people for quite some time now. Beside the garden and pond of the 1905 Restaurant , this bowling boulevard couples the thrill of entertaining games like pool and other arcade games.

    13.    Nepal Tea House 
    Anytime is teatime in Nepal. While our preference for milk tea dismisses other blends, many blends are exported from Nepal. Nepal Tea House in Basantapur has hundred of blends available, whether for regular use or for particular purpose.

    14.    Asan tole
    The grocery of olden times, Asan is still the bustling business center even after hundreds of years. Go there once, and stand – without being pushed by the waves of people – and marvel at the sheer magnitude of what you can find in the hub of the tole. From dried fish and vegetables to shoes and caps, from daily utilities to unique spices and traditional materials, you can find everything you will ever need, and more.

    15.    Pratap Malla’s Inscription
    Pratap Malla was one of the most famous Malla kings of Kathmandu. Not only did he enhance the architecture of the Kathmandu but also encouraged the denizens to dive into their culture and celebrate it. On top of allthis, Malla was a linguist and knew several languages. This inscription at his Hanuman Dhoka Palace is one of the many carvings that he had created during his lifetime.

    16.    Curry without worry
    A Nepali import from San Francisco, volunteers serve food to anyone with a hungry stomach every Tuesday in front of the Taleju Temple. Get back to the community by vgolunteering in this generous service that helps the needy get a good meal.

    17.    Futsal Arena
    Equipped with latest technology and FIFA recommended turf, this little gem at the Godavari Alumni Association in Thamel is Kathmandu’s authentic indoor futsal field.

    18.    Ratna Paun Bhandar
    For the sweet tooth or the spicy lovers, this place stores varities of titauras to tantalize your taste buds. These are made from fruits such as mango, lemon and Indian gooseberries and are a local hit! Visit the famous Ratna Paun Bhandar and take a pick. Apart from the main shop, titauras are widely available all over the city-from small grocery stores to the big supermarket.

    19.    Dharahara
    Also named Bhimsen Tower, Dharahara was the tallest building in Kathmandu for quite sometime. Even though it has been dwarfed by the multiplexes cropping up in Kathmandu, its enigma and attraction has not ceased. Climb a top the rounding staircases and marvel at the panoramic view of Kathmandu.

    20.    Soda at Ranjana Gali
    The multicolored and multi-flavored sodas of this famous galli area famous destination for people from all over the place. You cannot call yourself a Kathmanduite if you have not tried the soda from this place, where people throng no matter what time of the day.

    21.    Shwet Bhairah
    Right behind the monstrous figure of Kal Bhairab is the humongous mask of shwet bhaiab. Only viewable to the public during the festival of Indra jatra, this fear some mask is made of metal and spews a large quantity of chyang through his mouth during Indra Jatra.

    22.    Mahabouddha ND’S
    The ND’s café located inside the courtyard in the street of Mahabouddha offers a variety of dairy products as well as café which offers one of the city’s best American Chopseuy. A hangout popular amongst many, the name is also famous for it’s ice-cream.

    23.    Freak Street

    The warm glow of the yellow bulbs, the clear fluorescent of the street vendors, and the eerie and captivating nature of the temple and shrines, Basantapur during the nighttime is a sight to behold. The glow of Freak Street during the night, coupled with old-timers exchanging stories, is one that needs to be understood.

    24.    Rani Pokhari
    Build by Pratap Malla for his queen in memory of their deceased son, Rani Pokhari literally translates to the Queen’s Pond. The pokhari, situated near Jamal and Ratna Park, was previously build in the distinctly nepali Pagoda Style while the Moghul that is present today was the result of the reconstruction during the Rana Regime.

    25.    Seto Macchindranath Temple
    Much like the Rato Machindranath in Patan, the Seto Machindranath festival in Kathmandu is conducted with much fanfare and pomp. When the deity is not being paraded in a chariot, the Seto Machindranath , a rain-bringing incarnation of Shiva, resides in this glorious circa-17th-century bahal that contains numerous shrines, statues, and neo-European female figurine that holds candles.

    26.    Oil Production
    Learn how the Newars of Kathmandu made their cooking oil during olden times by visiting one of the few existing oil manufacturing houses in town. The oil is extracted from mustard plants by grinding the seeds continuously through a manual grinder with the result being a unrefined yet healthy Nepali Tel.

    27.    Ghantghar
    Katnmandu’s own public clock tower was re-built after the 1990 B.S. earthquake. The original clock tower was designed after the Big Ben in London. This historic clock tower was built by the Rana Prime Minister Bir Shamsher and rings every hour. Under this tower is a solar chronometer which measures time based on the position of the sun and the shadow it casts on a bronze angle fixed at the center of the dail.

    28.    Indra Jatra
    Celebrated by Newars of Katmandu during the monsoon, Indra Jatra is a festival devoted to Indra, the King of heaven. The festivities begin well before the actual jatra day with the erection of a linga and culminate with a chariot procession of Kumari, Bhairab, and Ganesh.

    29.    Mahabouddha Street
    Explore the labyrinth of Mahabouddha streets and discover useful goods for prices that won’t hurt your wallet. No guarantee on quality, though!

    30.    Akash Bhairav
    The Akash Bhairav temple is located in the busy Indra Chowk Street. The two-story temple has a balcony from which four metal lions are looking over. This temple is dedicated to Lord Intra.

    31.    Desyemaru Jhyaa
    The unique window located just a stone’s throw from Kathmandu Durbar Square is probably one of the least known landmarks in Kathmandu. The window, whose Newari name literally translates to “a window found nowhere else in the country”, is an intricately designed structure that goes narrows down into the first floor of a fairly modern house.

    32.    Hanuman Dhoka Museum
    The museum housed inside the Hanuman Dhoka Palace gives insight into the history of Nepal in the middle of the 20th century. The old museum also houses the nine-story Basantapur Tower which provides a view over the palace and the city.

    33.    Great Drums
    Most people will not notice the Great drums near the Swet Bhairab in Basantapur. Obscure yet not that hidden, the drums are said to have scared away the evil spirit away when they were played.

    34.    Durbar High School
    The first ever school to be established in Nepal, Dubar High School was established by the Ranas in 1892 and was opened to the public in 1902. This historic school is right opposite to Rani Pokhari and although in dire condition these days, gives much insight into the architecture during the Rana Regime.

    35.     Architecture at Dwarika’s  
    Dwarika’s began with one man’s vision to preserve his cultural heritage. Beginning in the mid 20th century, Dwarika Das Shrestha started an innocuous collection of wood carvings salvaged from run-down houses which today decorate the façade of the hotel, named after the man. Some of the woodwork are centuries old and have been carefully restored by trained artisans. On the premise, the hotel also houses a studio where a new generation of wood sculptors is being trained.

    36.    Gurukul Theatre
    Nepal’s first theatre school, these guys know how to put on a show or recycle old movie reel. Pictured here is one of the installations on the grounds of Gurukul that are made with unused movie reel.

    37.    Children’s Memorial Park
    The park was officially inaugurated towards the end of 2011. On this monument, names of the children who lost their lives in the conflict have been inscribed.

    38.    Toothache Shrine 
    The tooth-fairy of Nepal, this small Vaisha Dev shrine in the galli leading to Indra Chowk will catch unsuspecting people off-guard. The shrine is covered with coins that are nailed to any space that people can find. It is believed that every time someone had a toothache, nailing a coin onto the shrine would appease the god and that he would heal the patient, thus, and giving rise to this unique shrine.

    39.    Bhojan Griha
    A renovated 150yeear old mansion which was the residence of the royal priests of the Rana Regime turned into a restaurant serving authentic Nepali cuisine Bhojan Griha. Located in Dillibazaar, this place has a relaxing ambience. Alongside the Nepali food, one can also enjoy folk dances and songs.

    40.    Paan
    Chewing Betal leave is a palate cleanser, breath freshner a digestive enzyme. Ram Pan Bhandar has been dishing out paans for more than 32 years in Baneshwor. Kathmanduites don’t let distance stop them from coming here to enjoy one of their tasty creations.

    41.    Babar Mahal Revisited
    Babar Mahal Revisited is reinvention of the Rana period architecture which is used to be a cowshed and a guard house until 1996. It was later turned into a wonderful venue as a tribute to the Rana Architecture. The blend of European and local architecture which was found abundantly during the Rana era can be found inside Babar Mahal Revisited. The area has five courtyards, each of which resembles palaces found in the valley. The place currently houses Nepali art and artifacts stores, an art gallery as well as a few restaurants and eateries.

    42.    Meet A Holy Man

    There is a reason why they live the way they do. Carrying philosophy and stories of the ascetic life, holy men are always about the city with lots to share.

    43.     Attend the Marriage
    Weddings are a long affair in Nepal. The rituals are interesting and the game entertaining. The food is always extravagant and the dress code lavish. In season, there is no escaping the loud bands and the reveling.

    44.    Visit a Gallery
    Nepal is experiencing a modern twist on its traditional art form. With growing interest and investment, galleries and art spaces have opened up all over the valley. Visit one every now and then to see what’s new in the scene.

    45.    Horse Riding
    We tend to have unique bonds with animals here in Nepal. The larger the animal, the more achievement in domesticating it. Ride horses at special destinations around the valley and at Wind Horses Stable, Thapathali.

    46.    Bhrikuti Mandap Fun Park
    The fun park brings back fond childhood memories to many Kathmanduite. Go round the Ferris wheel or scream your lungs out in Columbus; have fun reliving your childhood at Bhrikuti Mandap Fun Park.

    47.    Pashupatinath Temple
    In the vicinity of the Pashupatinath temple, one of the most primary Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a hill which gives you the panoramic and picturesque view of valley. Simply breathe taking.

    48.    Sakhamul Ghat Area
    The Sankhamul ghat lies on the banks of Bagmati river and serves as a crematorium for the people living in Patan, and is a holy bathing site in festivals of Maghe Sankranti. Do visit the Jagat Narayan temple compound which consists of stone statue of Hamunan and Garuda.

    49.    Wood Carving

    The Newars of Kathmandu for generations have passed on skilled woodwork and architecture. Their handworks ubiquitous in the valley and can be appreciated in local building and woodwork studios. Today, many venues also offer lessons in crafts.

    50.    Mahaguthi
    Mahaguthi is a fair trade organization which produces, markets, and exports Nepali Handicraft. From photo frames to ceramic utensils and bedroom textiles, you can find it all in Mahaguthi showrooms-a treasure trove of local handicraft made creatively to fit the modern times. The showrooms are located at Kupondole and Lazimpat.

    51.    Patan Museum

    Previously the palace of one of the Malla Kings, the Patan Museum is set in a heritage-rich architecture setting and houses culture and religious artifacts, some of which date back to as early as the 11th century. The garden of the back of the museum is a pleasant resting palce.

    52.    Itum Bahal
    One of the country’s largest courtyards in the valley. Itum bahal is the go-to place for tranquility. With a small, white stupa in the centre, the bahal is one of the oldest in town and was said to be constructed in 1381.

    53.    Mahabouddha
    Hidden in a courtyard between houses tall and small, the terracotta temple has thousands of Buddha engraved on it. A ten minute walks southeast from the square.

    54.    Rato Macchinranath
    A major festival for Lalitpur which takes place around April, the chariot of the rain god tours all the major streets of the city. The procession extends for over a week and hundreds of euphoric people get on the streets to pull the chariot. Families get together and celebrate with a feast.

    55.    Elephant Ride at the Zoo
    Greet Pawankali, the elephant and have a fun time going as she takes you on atour of national zoo. Watch the various animals and birds on display from atop one of the longest serving animals of the zoo as you pass through various enclousers.

    56.    Boating at Zoo
    The central pond at zoo is emerald green and much cleaner than it used to be, thanks to the newly enforced “no-plastic” rule. Pedals boats rent out for cheap, and you get to enjoy the serene atmosphere and the giant cranes that bank themselves at the north of the pond.

    57.    Siddha Pokhari

    Built during the regime of Yaksha Malla, Siddha Pokhari is situated near the gate of Bhaktapur, Siddha Pokhari is associated with different myths and folklore. Visit the lake and spend some time feeding the varieties of fish that make the pond their home.

    58.    Relish Juju Dhau
    Try juju dhau from the place from where it was first produced. Enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of local yogurt, the term translating to “King Yogurt”.

    59.    The Square

    Spend a day basking in the sun and indulging in the culture of Bhaktapur in the durbar Square. Visit the 55 window palace or marvel at the golden gate of the palace as you immerse yourself in the day-to-day lives of the locals.

    60.    Pottery in Bhaktapur
    The local Pottery house that are in and around the Bhaktapur give an insight into the skill of the craftsmen in Bhaktapur. The varied pots, khutruke, diyo and ghainto hold testament to the age old method of handing molding soft clay into wonderful arts.

    61.    Inscription at Changu Narayan
    Mandev’s historic inscription on the Changu Narayan temple places him as the first recorded King of Nepal. Visit this Historic site and get closer to the roots of Nepal and its early civilization.

    62.    Newari Food
    Enjoy the distinct taste of Newari cuisine in Bhaktapur. Be it samay baji, choyyela, or kacchi la, the authentic taste that you get in Bhaktapur is enhanced by the local produce.

    63.    Feed the Pigeon
    Go to any of the Durbar Squares in Kathmandu and you will find an abundance of pigeons loitering around on the ground. More often than not, someone will be selling the some pigeons feed on the side. Feed the pigeons and watch as hundreds of them swarm you and swoop in for the food.

    64.    Botanical Garden
    You could get lost here. The garden extends over a large enclosed area that a regular picnic spots for many Kathmanduties. Streams, endemic plants and trees dot the area, not to mention the unique collection of Flora in the green houses. Thanks to the wide variety of plants and trees, the Botanical Garden is always bloom, or at least some parts are.

    65.    Phulchoki Daanda
    One of the few hills of valley that see snowfall sporadically is covered by dense forest. The hairpin turns scale up to the top of the hill with spectacular view of the city on clear days and opportunities to snap pictures of rare birds.

    66.    Cactus Farm
    For generations, visitors and folk of the Valley have marveled at the thorny embrace of these cacti. A little shed inside the botanical garden houses these plants, some of which are half a century old.

    67.    Krishna Mandhir
    The impressive temple that houses the Hindu god Krishna, Krishna Mandhir is an eye-catching feature of Patan Durbar Square. With 21 gajurs, the stone-made temple is the centre of attraction of the square during aratis and also during Krishna Janmaashtami.

    68.    Godavari Buddha
    This golden statue of Buddha watches over the valley from its outpost in the hills of Godavari. Inspired by the Japanese Pagoda Movement, the statue adds a spiritual presence to the green scenery of the location.

    69.    Shiva Statue
    The concrete statue of Lord Shiva was recently completed with a miraculous discovery at the end. An imprint of Buddha’s face can be made out in the figure’s chest, which is a rare coincidence in a country where Hinduism and Buddhism go side by side.

    70.    Help out in a Orphanage
    Give back to the young ones Kathmandu by volunteering in any one of the many orphanages in the town. Volunteer and help out the little ones through this small act of kindness and a lasting impression on their minds. Go on, give them something to smile about.

    71.    Bouddhanath Stupa
    While it’s unclear when the stupa was actually built, historians have approximated the original stupa to have been erected circa 600 by a Tibetan King. There are 108 small statues of Dhyani Buddha Amitabha in the stupa. Today, it is a pilgrimage site where prostrations are performed in the lower enclosure.

    72.    Paintball
    Gather a minimum of four friends and enjoy an action package fame of paintball at the Fun Park, Kathmandu. Open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends.

    73.    Kasthamandap
    Kathmandu is supposed to name after this temple in Basantapur which was built during the 12th century. Folklore has it that the temple was constructed from the wood of a single sal tree. The temple was later dedicated to Gorakhnath and houses for the images of Ganesh in its corner and nowadays, is occupied by various fruit and flower vendors during the day.

    74.    Baais Dhara
    Twenty-two water spouts known as the Baais Dhara is the place where, once every year, devotees gather to bathe in the waters considered holy. These water spouts are located inside the Balaju Gardens.

    75.    Sindoor Jatra

    This celebration marks the beginning of the Neplali New Year, and is observed in Thimi and other places in the outskirts. During this festival, devotees come to the streets and throw vermillion on one another and play traditional percussion instruments to welcome the New Year. Deities are carried in chariots and around the village. The festive color is the symbol of prosperity and happiness.

    76.    Kartik Naach
    Watch dancing people dressed up as gods, tell stories and folklores. The Kartik Naach is an every night affairs, usually starting around 8, for a week in the Nepali month of Kartik. This dance was originally initiated during the rule of King Siddhi Narsingh Malla.

    77.    People Watch at Squares
    Men en Route from their morning walks, women solemnly praying, a group resting on the benches, love birds sitting on the temple stairs, vendors selling chana chatpate and pani puri – you get to see interesting people at the squares. Early mornings and evenings here, watching people pass by, can be a therapy of clearing the mind, discovering great little things and getting inspired.

    78.    Swayambhunath Temple
    The “self-created” temple that started out as a magnificent lotus in the Kathmandu valley, Swayambhunath has evolved throughout the ages to its current form. Take the near vertical front stairs or the scenic back route; -reaching the Swayambhunath stupa is a workout on its own which also offers panoramic view of the valley. Swayambhunath is also the perfect example of the ethnic diversity on show in Kathmandu with the Hindu Haratimata Temple just besides the main stupa.

    79.    Breakfast at Bouddhanath
    Wake up, grab a coffee and munch on one the magnificent steamed dumplings that you can get in and around the Bouddhnath area. Breakfast at Bouddhanath tranquil and a claming experience for everyone. Be it the hundreds of devotees that flock to the area or the interested tourists that click photographs, the area is filled with people from dawn. Make sure you get a good seat while you have your breakfast as you can ponder on the enormous stupa as you sip your coffee.

    80.    Temples around Kathmandu
    Visit any of the literally thousands of shrines or temples scattered around the valley and you will be pleasantly surprised how important a feature these idols play in the lives of the people who live nearby. Take a darshan and offer some flowers and coins to the idol while you’re there.

    81.    Ayurvedic Spa
    Ayurvedic treatment is on the rise thes days, although you should be sure to get an authentic ayurvedic spa treatment. Ayurvedic spa treatment in Nepal includes mostly herbal massages coupled with authentic oils and powders.

    82.    Fish Spa
    This unique spa involves tiny fish treating your affected area by eating away at your dead skin cells. Only available in select spas and treatment centers around town, this is an innovative and relaxing way to get rid of dead cells.

    83.    Seeing Hands
    Seeing Hands is an organization that trains blind people in Nepal to become proficient masseuses as a means to earn a living. Go into one of the clinics in Kathmandu and you will not only enjoy a soothing massage but will also be helping the employees’ earn a living.

    84.    Cycling
    It is definitely a good idea to avoid the busy streets of Kathmandu on account of the lack of the traffic regulation but altogether the Valley serves a middle ground between off-road and on-road cycling. It’s not a big city , and we should all do our part in reveling Kathmandu of its air pollution.

    85.    Taleju Bhawani
    Open only one day of the year on Maha Nawami during Dashain, the Taleju temple at Basantapur was built by Mahendra Malla for the goddess Taleju. The temple is mostly deserted and opens only to devotees for one day when 54 buffaloes and 54 goats are scarified during the Maha Nawami celebrations.

    86.    Museum at Chhauni
    The National History Museum at Chhauni is home to the most of the historical artifacts and antiques that have been collected for many years. The museum also houses a weapons museum which features old time cannons and rifles along with antique swords and armory.

    87.    Attend a Nepali Concert
    There’s nothing like attending a concert in Kathmandu. Be it the head banging, lung busting screeching of a metal concert or the soothing tunes of traditional and modern music concerts that crop up most of the time. Attend a concert and experience the passion for music.

    88.    Golfing at Gokarana

    With 470 acres of free space to practice your skills, the golf course at Gokarna is one of the most pristine courses in the whole of South Asia. Set against the backdrop of Himalayas, this 18 whole course is the perfect getaway from the hassle of the crowded city.

    89.    Bird watching in Sano Gaun
    Watch the multitude of bird species that frequent the Sano Gaun area. The migratory birds that are found in this region are a sight for all enthusiastic bird watchers in Nepal.

    90.    Lokta Paper
    Lokta paper, or Nepali paper, is handmade made from the bark of the Lokta plant which is then cooked, washed, hammered and turned into a thin pulp which is then spread evenly end left to dry. The paper is found locally in many areas and factories that produce Lokta can be found in and around the Valley.

    91.    Nagi Gompa
    Atop the green hills of Shivapuri, occupying 12 acres inside the preservation area is this nunnery. Along one of the favored mountain-bike routes in the Valley, Nagi Gompa is always vivacious with chanting and prayers. It serves as a three-year retreat where nuns dwell in isolation for the deep meditative studies of spiritual texts.

    92.    Chobar Cave
    Extensive network of caves in the village of Chobhar are the second largest in Nepal and the third largest in Asia. The caves lie beside the gorge that drains the rivers out of the valley.

    93.     Pasang Lhambu Climbing Wall
    If you need to polish your climbing skills before heading to the mountains, try the Pasang Lhambu Climbing Wall on the city’s northeastern edge. A day’s membership costs Rs.350 and equipment rental costs Rs.1000. Week-long climbing courses and private tuitions are available.

    94.    Bipassana
    Get away from the madness of the city and escape into Budhanilkantha to practice Bipassana. With seats open twice a month, this rigorous mediation involves participants to not utter a word during their stay and is sure to leave participants with plenty of things to ponder upon.

    95.    Sano Gaun
    A short distance from Balaju, Sano Gaun is in the middle of a dense forest that is home to wildlife, and the Osho Tapoban. A perfect getaway for those who don’t wish to do much traveling.

    96.    Buddhanilkantha
    A place of pilgrimage for Hindus, Buddjanilkantais is at the base of the Shivapuri Hills. The place is famous for the stone statue of Lord Vishnu reclining on abed of coiled snakes in the middle of a pond. According to legend, the reigning kings of Nepal were forbidden to visit he statue.

    97.    Osho Tapoban
    Located in the forests of the Nagarjun hills, the Osho Tapoban is an international commune and a forest retreat established in 1990. A free space for Osho lovers who want to find inner peace and spend some time in meditative atmosphere, the Tapoban hosts various activities throughout the year such daily meditations, weekly satsang, monthly meditation camps and pilgrimage tours.

    98.    Sundarijal
    This VDC, popular for its natural beauty is named after the Hindu goddess Sundarimai and has a temple dedicated to the very deity. Mainly hills and forests, most of Sundarijal is covered by the Shivapuri national Park. Sundarijal is also famous for being the primary source of drinking water for the valley with many of its pools of water dwinding down the Kathmandu.

    99.    Newa Lahana at Kritipur
    While walking on the way to Kritipur, be sure to sit down and have something to eat at Newa Lahana, one of the few restaurants that provide authentic Newari dishes. The walk to Lahana is also made interesting due to the open air museum that stretches from the narrow lanes with old craftsmen tools and Newari applicanes all displayed.

    100.    Taudaha
    Situated on the outskirts of Kathmandu, this large lake is the perfect place to have a peaceful timeby yourself or with your friends. With an incongruously solitary tree in the middle of the large water pool, Taudaha also has a variety of fish and migratory birds.

    Source: ECS LIVING