Pristine Panauti is perfect for a day trip
As your bus turns south from Banepa on the Araniko Highway, a sea of green rice fields on either side of the road and lush green hills seem to welcome you to this ancient city Panauti. About 36 kilometers south east of Kathmandu, Panauti is perfect for a day trip for a wonderful experience. If you wish to stay for a night, homestay facilities offer an opportunity to spend more time and immerse in the local culture.
Gorakhnath Temple
Located on a hilltop, Gorakhnath temple offers a surreal view of Panauti with ancient house made of bricks and tiles, bending serpentine rivers and temples. A 10-minute climb through pine trees takes you to this peaceful retreat. Breathe some fresh air, listen to the birds chirping and submerge in the stunning view of Panauti and the lush green hills around the valley from this vantage point.
Triveni Ghat
Triveni Ghat is the confluence of three holy rivers Roshi, punyamati and Rudramati is believed to be invisible and can only be seen by a wise and a lucky person. The ghat boasts of stunning natural beauty and temples like Brahmayani and Indreshwor give it religious and cultural significance. It is believed a holy bath in this ghat will wash away one’s sin.
Indreshwor Mahadev Temple
For those interested in ancient carvings, Indreshwor Mahadev Temple is the perfect site. One of the oldest multi-roofed Pagoda style temples, Indreshwor Mahadev Temple located in the temple square and is close to Triveni Ghat. There is a temple of Unmatta Bhairab and Tulanarayan in the premises. Panauti museum is another attraction located in the square.
Panauti Museum
Located in the premises of Indreshwor Mahadev Temple, Panauti Museum was established recently. The museum, though quite small, is decked with a treasure trove of ancient art and architecture of Panauti – some dating back to the 14th century. oNe can see the bits and piece that resemble the reflect the rich soothe your soul.
Where to stay
There are few good hotels and number of lodges in Panauti. If you want to experience the culture and lifestyle of the people firsthand, opt for a homestay facility conducted by Panauti Tourism Development Centre. Make a reservation one day prior to your visit for a homestay. Contact: 9841224910
Festivals
Panauti observes Makarmela, which is held for a month in every 12 years during January to February. Yomari Punhi during November or December, Nawa Durga Festival during mid April are some of the other significant festivals of Panauti. Janaipurnima, Gaijatra, et cetera are other special occasions to visit Panauti.
Getting There
Panauti is a two-hour bus ride from the Old Bus Park, Kathmandu from where there are plenty of buses available.
Things to Carry
Sunglasses, sunscreen, wet and dry tissues, drinking water, proper hiking shoes and a backpack if you wish to go for a hike.
As your bus turns south from Banepa on the Araniko Highway, a sea of green rice fields on either side of the road and lush green hills seem to welcome you to this ancient city Panauti. About 36 kilometers south east of Kathmandu, Panauti is perfect for a day trip for a wonderful experience. If you wish to stay for a night, homestay facilities offer an opportunity to spend more time and immerse in the local culture.
Gorakhnath Temple
Located on a hilltop, Gorakhnath temple offers a surreal view of Panauti with ancient house made of bricks and tiles, bending serpentine rivers and temples. A 10-minute climb through pine trees takes you to this peaceful retreat. Breathe some fresh air, listen to the birds chirping and submerge in the stunning view of Panauti and the lush green hills around the valley from this vantage point.
Triveni Ghat
Triveni Ghat is the confluence of three holy rivers Roshi, punyamati and Rudramati is believed to be invisible and can only be seen by a wise and a lucky person. The ghat boasts of stunning natural beauty and temples like Brahmayani and Indreshwor give it religious and cultural significance. It is believed a holy bath in this ghat will wash away one’s sin.
Indreshwor Mahadev Temple
For those interested in ancient carvings, Indreshwor Mahadev Temple is the perfect site. One of the oldest multi-roofed Pagoda style temples, Indreshwor Mahadev Temple located in the temple square and is close to Triveni Ghat. There is a temple of Unmatta Bhairab and Tulanarayan in the premises. Panauti museum is another attraction located in the square.
Panauti Museum
Located in the premises of Indreshwor Mahadev Temple, Panauti Museum was established recently. The museum, though quite small, is decked with a treasure trove of ancient art and architecture of Panauti – some dating back to the 14th century. oNe can see the bits and piece that resemble the reflect the rich soothe your soul.
Where to stay
There are few good hotels and number of lodges in Panauti. If you want to experience the culture and lifestyle of the people firsthand, opt for a homestay facility conducted by Panauti Tourism Development Centre. Make a reservation one day prior to your visit for a homestay. Contact: 9841224910
Festivals
Panauti observes Makarmela, which is held for a month in every 12 years during January to February. Yomari Punhi during November or December, Nawa Durga Festival during mid April are some of the other significant festivals of Panauti. Janaipurnima, Gaijatra, et cetera are other special occasions to visit Panauti.
Getting There
Panauti is a two-hour bus ride from the Old Bus Park, Kathmandu from where there are plenty of buses available.
Things to Carry
Sunglasses, sunscreen, wet and dry tissues, drinking water, proper hiking shoes and a backpack if you wish to go for a hike.
