Dhulikhel

Friday, June 12, 2009

Dhulikhel is the administrative centre of Kavrepalanchok District, Nepal. At the time of the 1991 Nepal census it had a population of 9812 people in 1624 households.[1]Dhulikhel lies along the B.P Highway and Araniko Highway. Araniko Highway connects Kathmandu, Nepal's capital city with Tibet's border town of Kodari. Dhulikhel is located near the Himalayas at 1550m above sea level and is situated 30 km southeast of Kathmandu and 74 km southwest of Kodari. The people in the village are Newars, Bhramin, Chhettri, Tamang and Dalit. Drinking water in Dhulikhel is one of the best water in Nepal. It was made with the Help of the GermanNGO, German Technical Cooperation.


Dhulikhel has for many centuries been an important trading centre on the ancient commercial route linking Nepal to Tibet. Since time immemorial, people of Nepal travel to Tibet to bring home salt and gold. Likewise, the Tibetans every year with their flocks of sheep enter into Nepal during Dashain, the greatest Hindu festival. They purchased chilies and other daily necessities in Nepal and return to their homeland. In those days, a whole day walk from Kathmandu to Dhulikhel was comfortable for Tibet trippers with easily available of food and water at Dhulikhel at the evening for overnight stay. Even now, a bird's eye view from the resorts at Dhulikhel to the landscapes; highway to Tibet and horizons far to the Tibetan borders, clearly exhibits Dhulikhel as the gateway of Tibet. After adjoining with Tibet by motorable road in 1965, Dhulikhel got a face lift and developed as a tourist destination both for Tibet trippers and tourists. Dhulikhel is an ideal station to stop for overnight stay while going to Tibet and coming back to Kathmandu.


The Mountains - A Tourist Paradise: The spectacular snowfed mountains seen from Dhuklikhel must be one of the finest panoramic views in the world. When a blue haze covers the lower portion of the mountains, they seem to be floating in the air. With the snowy mountains on the backdrop, Dhulikhel is a stage of immense beauty and a paradise for nature lovers. Green inviting hills of which still virgin and some turned into beautifully carved agricultural terraces cater to the beholders' pleasure.

Geographically, the plains rise up gradually up to the green mountains and further into the snow capped Himalayas. The panorama offers a majestic undisturbed view of the Himalayan ranges stretching from Mount Annapurna in te far west to Mount Karolung in the Far East. More than twenty Himalayan peaks including Mt. Annapurna (8091 m), Mt. Ganesh Himal (7429 m), Mt. Langtang (7234 m), Mt. Phuribichyachu (6637 m), Mt. Gaurishanker (7134 m), Mt. Lhotse (2516 m) and many others can be seen in their full glory from the different vantage points in Dhulikhel. In short, it is the foremost point for the mountain-oriented sightseeing since time immemorial. The eco-himalayan atmosphere will surprise anyone an unforgettable experience in lifetime.

The Old Town: The oldest area of the town, the southern end, is an assembly of fine old Newari houses, often occupied by 20 or more members of the local extended families. They may not all have glazed windows, hot water or modern furniture, but they have dignity and a friendly atmosphere. Their most valuable assets are the beautifully carved windows and doors, fine examples of traditional Newari craftsmanship.

As one wanders down the traffic free narrow streets, one passes through a medieval city inhabited for at least five centuries and may have a feeling that he is in the garden of cultural theme park. The plan of the city is based on ancient Hindu planning doctrine with the position, shape, scale & dominance between buildings, temples, public squares all having their own meaning and harmony. There are organically developed compact settlements around Dhulikhel. These settlements in one hand conserved heat in the cold valley, and at the same time maximized land for agricultural use. One of such old settlements is Shrikhandapur, which lies 2 km west of the core city near the Kathmandu University, and is also a centuries old Newari settlement. The settlement is protected by Swet Bhairav (an incarnation of Lord Shiva) and Narayan (Vishnu) deties.

Temples: There are numerous temples in the town depicting an example of traditional and old Newari craftsmanship of Dhulikhel. These are important places of worship for local people. The core area of Dhulikhel has interesting narrow cobbled streets and lanes embedded with number of Hindu Shrines and a few Buddhist Stupa.

In the centre of the old town is the Narayan Temple with its yellow metal roofs. It is dedicated to Lord Krishna whose birthday is joyfully celebrated here in August. Alongside is the Harisiddhi Temple whose God responds to the worshippers' problems and sees their right and wrong doings. Both the temples are adorned with profuese wood carvings and fronted by two Garudas in quite different attitude. Bhagwati Temple situated at the top of the western part of the town is considered as one of the best place to see around Dhulikhel and also to enjoy the best mountain views. The GaukhureshworMahadev Temple is about 20 minutes walk to the east of the town near Tundikhel Recreation Park and is located in a peaceful and quite environment. Further up hill, one reaches, within half an hour trek, the Bhagwati (Kali) Temple. This is a beautiful pagoda that one can see on the skyline as one drives into Dhulikhel.

Sports and Entertainments in Nepal

Nepal offers thrilling activities including entertainment sports. Mingling with adventurous trips, it offers many places of enjoyment as well as allure travellers to enjoy their holidays. They can enjoy the rustic by simply beholding spectacular sights and partaking in the activities of exotic cultures, in cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara some entertainment is on par with western world.

Movies
In Nepal filmmaking was started around 1862. Nepali film has a larger than life story, multiple songs and dances, mostly used the local scene, story about the Nepalese society and reunion of the main hero/protagonist of the story. Watching Nepali film is enjoyable and many filmmakers in Nepal have tried to make social conscious films even with popular genres. Watching Nepali film one can get different experience.

Culture Shows
In Nepal in every hotels and restaurants you can see the cultural shows performed by the local people. It is performed by the local artist of the particular area in the hotel premises or at any fixed place. They offer classical and folk dance. It is performed usually by the evening followed by the dinner.

Dining
Kathmandu has wide range of hotels and guesthouse. It offers dinning varieties from the quality service of five star menus to roadside cafes experience. The price range is easily affordable for most visitors in Nepal. Different varieties of food are found in Kathmandu. Many hotels and restaurants in Kathmandu have improved in a great way than before. Indian, Chinese, continental and other varieties of food are available which satisfied the visitors. In Nepal visitors enjoy the authentic taste of indigenous cuisines in the ethnic ambience of Nepali restaurants. Outside the Kathmandu valley there is wide range of top hotels and restaurants which offers varieties of dining.

Many hotels and restaurants performed traditional songs and dance by local artists during meals. Mostly in Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan traditional songs and dances are performed.

Nepal does not have the most active nightlife, yet it does exist and the young at heart will certainly be satisfied with the selection. Nepal's nightlife is focused around tourist areas, particularly Thamel in Kathmandu. The nightlife in Nepal has something to offer everyone.

Whilst most restaurants close at around 10:00 pm, many bars and clubs remain open until the early hours of the morning. A very popular form of nighttime entertainment in Nepal are the casinos. Kathmandu has four casinos situated at the top hotels. Casinos provide a variety of entertainment twenty-four hours a day. Most up-scale restaurants will present cultural shows for their patrons. Such shows feature brightly colored costumes with local music, songs and dances. The cultural shows usually begin at about 7:00pm. One of the most popular classical and folk dance groups in Nepal is the Himalchuli cultural group who are hosted at the Festival Restaurant and Bar. Look out for sign boards placed outside of restaurants advertising upcoming shows.

Various local bands play at venues in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Discotheques are very popular amongst tourist in Nepal and are a great way to just let go. You should note however that contact between men and women is frowned upon, therefore most dancing takes place with groups of the same sex. There are many bars and pubs in the Thamel area, each has its own character and theme.

Movie theaters in Nepal show only Bollywood Hindi movies, usually without English subtitles. Some people still enjoy going to watch such features as a cultural experience and you are sure to enjoy the vibrant colors and music. New venues have begun showing English language movies, however, they tend to be very far behind the western market. Certain restaurants in Thamel show movies on televisions that have just been released. You will have to eat at the restaurant to take advantage of this service. Signs are usually put up advertising the movies that are to be on display. Foreign language subtitled films can be viewed at the Russian Cultural Center at Kamal Pokhari.

Be sure to keep safe when enjoying the nightlife in Nepal and avoid any bars that may have a bad element. Let the adventures of daytime extend into night, by taking advantage of the various facets of Nepal's nightlife.

Canyoning in Nepal

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Canyoning/Canyoneering is an adventure sport that involves traveling down creeks or streams within a canyon by a variety of means including hiking, scrambling, wading, boulder hopping, rock climbing, abseiling and rappelling using safe techniques.

Canyoning is comprehensive package for experiencing adventure that requires technical skills of stream navigation, rope and canyoning gears work and preparedness for risk minimization. Your safety depends on your judgment based on competent instruction, experience and a realistic assessment of abilities and understanding of current canyon conditions.

Abseil canyoning activity is becoming increasingly popular in the world and many young rivers of Nepal are ideal for canyoning.

We provide site briefing, travel arrangement, lunch box/kitchen, canyoning gears and field guides.

Bungy Jumping in Nepal

BUNGY JUMPING If you thought bungy jumping was restricted to some places in Europe, New Zealand and America, it's time you got and update. The sport has finally found a natural home in the highest mountain range in the world. The ultimate thrill of a bungy jump can now be experienced in Nepal at perhaps the best site in the world.

Nepal's first bungy jumping site is situated 160m over the wild Bhote Kosi river, and located close to the Nepal-Tibet border, a three-hour bus ride from Kathmandu. As can be arranged on arrival in Kathmandu. As of now, there is only one agency offering this sport. The jump, at 160m, was designed by one of New Zealand's leading bungy consultants, and is operated by some of the most experienced jump masters in the business. It's mishap-proof. The agency takes safety "very, very seriously".

Location:

Less than 3 hours outside Kathmandu by Ultimate Bungy Shuttle. You will travel the Arniko (Kathmandu/Lhasa) Highway to within 12km of the Tibet Border and the famous Friendship Bridge.


The Gorge:

Ultimate Bungy Nepal takes place on a 166m wide steel suspension bridge over the Bhoti Kosi River.

The Bridge:

Swiss designed, specially for bungy jumping with a 4x saftey factor. The bridge has a loading factor of 250kg per running meter. This means that the bridge will hold 250 x 166 = 41,500kg or 4.5 tonnes. And... those are Swiss measurements! * Over 6000 meters of steel wire was used to build the bridge * Longest suspension bridge in Nepal * The bridge joins two sides of a great valley. Before its construction, locals walked five hours to cross this river gorge.

Rates

The rate is $75 per jump. Nepalese are entitled to 30% discount.

Mountain Biking

Mountain Bikes tours to Nepal and Tibet. Main aspect of this tours are specially designed to take you deep into the culture and lifestyle of the local people and show you the best trails in the Himalayas, where most mountain bikers rarely get a chance to ride. Mountain biking in Nepal has been gaining much popularity among the adventure enthusiasts from around the world over the past few years.

Nepal has now achieved worldwide recognition as one of the best mountain biking destinations. The reason being that it is a mountainous country with diverse landscapes and breathtaking natural beauty. Our highest priorities in all our Nepal biking trips are safety, quality and enjoyment. You will ride on these wild and challenging trails through some of the most stunning scenic and cultural landscapes in the world. With the stunning backdrop of the Himalayan ranges, the extreme valleys and old forests of the rugged middle hills, the charming terraced fields and bright smiles in the timeless villages, you will remember this journey for its unique beauty as well as its challenging mountain biking terrain.
Mountain Biking in the Himalayas
Trip NameDaysGradeCost
Mountain Biking in the Himalayas21Moderate plus$US1,965

Paragliding in Pokhara


In Nepal different adventure travelling offers some exciting paragliding tours in Nepal. Paragliding in the Himalayan region is a truly wonderful and fulfilling experience for the adventure seeker. Experience the unparalleled scenic grandeur as you soar over villages, monasteries, temples, lakes and jungle, while sharing airspace with Himalayan griffins, eagles, and kites.



Paragliding is a seasonal sport; the flying season in Nepal commences in November, and runs through to February, the best months being November and December. Pokhara is becoming one of the world's best destinations for tourists to experience the Himalayas and is one of the world's best locations for Paragliding.


Tandem Flying requires a trained pilot flying with a passenger. It is your solution to experience paragliding without extensive training. Two separate harnesses are attached to the wing. The paragliding harness is designed for comfort and safety. You can sit back, take pictures and enjoy the freedom of flying like a bird. This exciting short flight trip can be completed pre/post trekking when you have a rest day in Pokhara. For details please make an inquiry or book this tandem flight now.


There are 2 kinds of tandem flights:

Fewa Lake and Mountain view (cost US$ 100)

It take off from Sarangkot, while you are flying you will see the Mountain views, villages, river and lake.

Time:- 25-45 Minute (Dependant on weather conditions)


Cross Country (Cost US$ 150)

It's background will be the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Manaslu among others. This flight gives you the chance to have a longer and unique flying experience.

Time: 1-2 Hours

Some of the other main Festivals

Thursday, May 21, 2009

  • Dashain Holidays
    During the month of Kartik in the Bikram Sambat calendar (late September and early October), the Nepalese people indulge in the biggest festival of the year, Dashain. Dashain is the longest and the most auspicious festival in the Nepalese annual calendar, celebrated by Nepalese of all caste and creed throughout the country. The fifteen days of celebration occurs during the bright lunar fortnight ending on the day of the full moon.
  • Tihar Holidays
    Tihar, the festival of lights is one of the most dazzling of all Hindu festivals. In this festival we worship Goddess Laxmi, the Goddess of wealth. It heralds the month of Kartik (October/November) starting with Kukur Puja-Narak Chaturdashi.
  • Maghe Sankranti
    Maghe Sankranti is the beginning of the holy month of Magh, usually the mid of January. It brings an end to the ill-omened month of Poush (mid-december) when all religious ceremonies are forbidden. Even if it is considered the coldest day of the year, it marks the coming of warmer weather and better days of health and fortune.
  • Shree Panchami
    This festival falls in mid Magh (January/February).It is celebrated as the birthday of Saraswati, the Goddess of Learning. She is the lily-white daughter of Shiva and Durga in spotless white robe and seated in a full-blown lotus.
    This day is also dedicated to the martyrs of Nepal and hence celebrated as Martyr's Day.
  • Maha Shiva Ratri
    This day is the celebration dedicated to the Lord Shiva which falls on the Trayodashi of the month Fagun (February/March).

  • Ghode Jatra
    Ghode Jatra, the Horse Racing Day falls on Darhsa Shrad Aunsi of the month Chaitra (March/April). A grand horse parade takes place at Tundikhel, the central point of the city reputed to have been in the former days the largest parade ground in Asia.
  • Shree Ram Nawami
    Ram Nawami is celebrated in the mid of Chaitra (March/April) as Lord Ram's Birthday. It is celebrated with much pomp at Janaki temple in Janakpur city, which lies in southern Nepal.
  • Bagh Jatra
    The Bagh Jatra of Pokhara is another cultural baggage brought by Newars from Kathmandu, celebrated in early august. The festival has been celebrated in Pokhara for about 150 years. It expresses the people's joy at their deliverance from a marauding tiger. On the first day, people dress up like hunters and make an appearance accompanied by musical bands. The next day is an interlude devoted to the showing of comic programs. For three days,the hunting party parades through different parts of the town before "slaying" the beast to end the festivities.
  • Bhairav Kumari Jatra
    This is one of the major religious celebrations in Dolkha, an historic town in north-eastern Nepal (133 km from Kathmandu off the highway to Tibet). The festival falls on early August; and consists of masked dances that go on non-stop for five days. Escorted by musical bands, dancers representing the deities Bhairav and Kumari and other gods and goddesses swirl and sway through Dolkha, visiting its many temples. On the occasion, devotees also undergo fasting and worship Bhairav and Kumari. The ceremony has a history going back more than five centuries.
  • Chaite Dasain
    Chaite Dasain used to be the original day of the grand Dasain festival (which takes place exactly six months later now), but because people got their stomachs upset after feasting on spicy food during the warm month of Chaitra, the grand celebration was shifted to the cooler season. But the religious fervor is still evident in the celebrations of the day.
  • Gaura Parva
    Gaura Parva is another celebration honoring Lord Krishna's birthday. It is celebrated in far western Nepal with much gusto for two days (August/September). Apart from the many ceremonies that happen during this festival, it is the occasion for married women to put on the sacred thread. The deuda dance is a major part of the festivities in which participants hold hands and form a circle as they step to traditional music.
  • Gunla
    Gunla is a sacred month dedicated to Lord Buddha. This festival commemorates the auspicious "rains retreat" when the Buddha, over 2,500 years ago, led his close disciples into solitary meditation and preached to them the essence of his principles.
  • Guru Purnima
    Teachers come second (after the gods) in the Hindu hierarchy of respect. The full moon day of the month June/July is set aside for students to pay homage to their teachers and receive blessings from them in return. At a place called Vyas on the Kathmandu-Pokhara highway, special worship is performed to Maharishi Vyas, the saint who wrote the great Hindu epic, Mahabharat. For Buddhists, the occasion (Dilla Punhi) is sacred as the day when the Buddha-to-be entered the womb of Queen Mayadevi. Religious functions are held at monasteries and temples to commemorate the event.
  • Lhosar
    Lhosar is the Tibetan New Year which falls on February/March. This festival is mast impressively observed by all the Tibetan-speaking populations. They organize folk songs and dances on this occasion. These dances can be seen in Khumbu, Helambu and other northern regions of Nepal and also at Boudhanath in Kathmandu.

Rato Machindra Jatra

This is the longest as well as the most important festival of Patan. It begins with several days of ceremonies and the fabrication of a wooden-wheeled chariot at Pulchowk, near the Ashoka Stupa. The chariot bears the shrine of the Rato (Red) Macchendranath (the Tantric expression of Lokeshwar) and carries a very tall spire fabricated from " bamboo poles raised from four ends of the chariot. This unwieldy spire is around 10 meters tall and on account of which, the chariot balances precariously. It is said that calamity is certain to strike the land in the event of the chariot overturning or breaking down during

Rato Machhendranath
the course of this festival. (Quite often, it does collapse!).Following the construction, the chariot is towed through the streets of Patan by throngs of devotees every day. Each day, it is put to rest in one of the many venerated spots in the city.This goes on for a month until it comes to rest on the big field outside the zoo and end with the Bhoto Jatra, another major festival, during which the bejewelled 'bhoto' of Machhendranath is displayed to the public.

Holi

People participate in throwing of water and colors at eachotherThe ancient Hindu festival of Holi falls on late February or on early March. Allegedly named after the mythical demoness Holika, it is a day when the feast of colours is celebrated. The festival is of a week. However it's only the last day that is observed by all with colours. Phagu is another name for Holi where Phagu means the sacred red powder and Pune is the full moon day, on which the festival ends. People can be seen wandering through the streets either on foot or on some vehicle, with a variety of colours smeared over them.

Families and friends get together and celebrate the occasion with a lot of merry making. This spring time celebration is also an outburst of youthful exuberance in which throwing colours and water bolloons (lolas) on passer- by is acceptable. But, the Indian community, that is, the Marwari class who have settled down in Nepal for centuries and the people of Terai celebrate it a day later with more pomp and ceremony.

The 'chir' pole.The days prior to the last don't have a lot happening except, the installation of the ceremonial pole called "chir', on the first day. It's a bamboo pole, fringed with strips of cloth representing good luck charms. It is said to symbolize the tree on which lord Krishna hung the milkmaids' garments while they were bathing, unseen as they thought, in the Jamuna river of northern India. As the pole is put up in the street at Basantapur, the festivities and worship commences for the week. At the end of which its taken to a bonfire.

Foreigners taking part in Holi.The myth following Holi, reveals that a fiend named Holika together with her brother, an atheist king by the name of Hiranyakasyapu conspired ways to kill his son Pralhad because Pralhad was an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu. But their attempts always failed for Lord Vishnu protects those who love him. Finally, Holika who having received a blessing from Lord Bramha to be immune to fire, jumped in with Pralhad. But Brahma's blessing could only be used for good purposes and so Holika was consumed by the fire where as Pralhad was saved by the grace of the Gods. Thus, Holi is said to be celebrated to rejoice Holika's extermination and the traditional bonfires are believed to commemorate her death.

Merry times in the street of Kathmandu.According to another story, from the Puranas and the Bhagvat, Kansa sent a female demon named Putna to kill his nephew Lord Krishna. Taking the form of a nurse Putna went to Brindaban where the child Lord Krishna was growing up and tried to feed Him her poisonous milk but the attempt backfired and she was killed. Her body was burnt on the night of Holi. So some consider Holi, the festival of fire also.

Holi for everyone is a time for fun and frolic. A day when one forgets the worldly anxieties and just enjoys the finer things in life.

Indra Jatra


It is a well known fact that Hinduism and Buddhism are the two major religions of Nepal, each having it's own rules and rituals. However, like most festivals of Nepal, both Hindus and Buddhist unite to celebrate the festival of Indra Jatra. This festival is celebrated by both Hindus and Buddhists with great enthusiasm. It is also believed that Indra Jatra is a festival of classical dances. It is on this very day when one is able to observe numerous varieties of traditional dances. The festival is named after Lord Indra who is known as the god of rain and also as the king of heaven.

Traditional Mask dancerThe festival of Indra Jatra continues for eight days with much rejoicing, singing, dancing and feasting. People from all over Nepal, mostly those who live within the Kathmandu Valley, gather at the Hanuman Dhoka in Kathmandu. The first day of the festival is viewed by a large number of people. On that day, a long wooden pole is erected in front of the ancient Royal Palace at Hanuman Dhoka, in order to propitiate Lord Indra, the"god of rain". Classical dancers also assemble at the spot, wearing different kinds of traditional masks and costumes and dancing around the courtyard of Hanuman Dhoka to celebrate Indra's visit.

Kumari at Indra Jatra festivalOn the third day of the festival of Indra Jatra, the living goddess Kumari is taken out in a procession in a chariot. "Kumari", the "living goddess", is considered to be an incarnation of the goddess "Taleju". Chariots of Kumari, Ganesha and Bhairav are taken around the city for three days. According to Hindu beliefs Ganesha is the son of Shiva and Parvati who has a head of an elephant and Bhairav is another form of Lord Shiva himself.

Street music during Indra JatraThe king of Nepal, the only Hindu king in the world, also pays homage to the Kumari during this period. The festival's many interesting dances, including the Procession of Living Goddess-Mahakali, Mahalaxmi and Dasha Avatara masked dances are staged in Kathmandu Durbar Square, near the Kumari Temple. The "Dasha Avatara" refers to the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu who is one of the Hindu's Holy trinity. The excitement of the festival of Indra Jatra comes to an end on the last evening of the festival when the long wooden pole erected on the first day is lowered with religious ceremonies, animal sacrifices and ritual gestures.

The chariot of godess Kumari being drawn down the Durbar Square area in Kathmandu.

Gai Jatra

The festival of "Gai Jatra", the procession of cows, is generally celebrated in the Nepalese month of Bhadra (August-September). The festival of cows is one of the most popular festivals of Nepal. The whole complex of Gai Jatra festival has its roots in the ancient age when people feared and worshipped Yamaraj,"the god of death". However, the ironical sessions synonymous with the Gai Jatra festival came into tradition in the medieval period of Nepal during the reign of Malla Kings. Hence, the present form of Gai Jatra is a happy blending of antiquity and medievalism.

Children participants of Gai Jatra being carried through the streets of Kathmandu during the procession.
According to the traditions since times immemorial, every family who has lost one relative during the past year must participate in a procession through the streets of Kathmandu leading a cow. If a cow is unavailable then a young boy dressed as a cow is considered a fair substitute. In Hinduism, a cow is regarded as the most venerated among all the domestic animals. It is believed that the cow, revered as a holy animal by Hindus, will help the deceased relative's journey to heaven.

In terms of historical evidences, once when King Pratap Malla lost his son, his wife, the queen remained dumbstruck. The king was very sad to see the condition of his beloved queen. The king, in spite of his several efforts, could not lessen the grief of his wife. By all means he wanted to see little smile on the lips of his sweetheart. He announced that someone who ever made the queen laugh would be rewarded adequately.

Gai Jatra procession at Basantapur Durbar Square, Kathmandu.During the festival of Gai Jatra, the cow procession was brought before the griefstricken queen. Then the participants began ridiculing and befooling the important people of the society. Finally when the social injustice and other evils were highlighted and attacked mercilessly, the queen could not stop smiling. The queen laughed, and Pratap Malla, the king ensued a tradition of including jokes, satires,mockery and lampoon in the Gai Jatra days.

Buddha Jayanti

The belief and the practice of Buddhism in Nepal dates back to the time of Prince Siddharth Gautam, who was born in the southern Terai region of the country in about 543 BC. Till he was 29, the young prince led a very sheltered life in the royal palace of his father. He was completely unaware of the tragedies of everyday life. One day, he convinced his charioteer to take him outside the walls of his palace and he was shocked to see the sight of an old man, a cripple, and a corpse.

Swayambhunath Temple


The realization that there was more to life than the lavish and luxurious life he was leading, made him abandon all the worldly pleasures and search for enlightenment and the true meaning of life. After much wandering and searching, Gautam finally attained enlightenment while meditating under a pipul tree. Henceforth, known as the "Buddha" or "the enlightened one" he began to preach "The Four Noble Truths" to all who would listen. According to this doctrine, people suffer because of their desires and the root cause of all misery is desire. These desires and consequently all problems can be totally eliminated by following the "eightfold path"- right views, right intent, right speech, right conduct, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness and right meditation.

Buddha journeyed from place to place, teaching and converting hundreds of followers. He died at the age of eighty. However, his disciples continued to spread his teachings. Because of his wise teachings Lord Buddha is revered by many Nepalese and Buddha Jayanti is celebrated with much enthusiasm throughout the Kingdom.This day falls on the full moon of the month of Baisakh and is celebrated to commemorate the birth, attainment of knowledge and the death of Lord Buddha.Thus, it is a thrice blessed day.

Prayers are sung and the Buddhists offer worship in all the major Buddhist shrines such as Swayambhu and Boudhanath.At Swayambhunath, for example millions of devout Buddhists gather to chant prayers and to burn butterlamps. The next morning a giant figure of Lord Buddha is displayed to all the followers and hundreds of small shrines are visited and worshipped. Large groups of people parade through the streets praising the Lord and his teachings. Special flags, usually red, blue; yellow and white can be seen flying high above all the Buddhist households.

Janakpur

Janakpur, [Nepali: जनकपुर नगरपालिका) less commonly Janakpurdham, is a city in Nepal. Janakpur is the administrative headquarters of the Dhanusa District of the Janakpur Zone and has a population of approximately 80,000. The city is located about 400 km south-east of Kathmandu, 20 km from the Indian border[1] at 26° 42' 44" N, 085° 55' 18" E Janakpur has a substantial tourist industry due to its significance in the Hindu religion[3] and is home to the only operational railway in Nepal, the Janakpur Railway.

Janaki Mandir, Janakpur

Janakpur, historically called Mithila, is the centre of the ancient Maithili culture, which has its own language and script.

The first millennium BC text Śatpath Brāhmana tells that the king Māthava Videgha, led by his priest Gotama Rahugana, first crossed the Sadānirā (Gandaka) river and founded the kingdom of Videha, whose capital city was Mithila. As Gotama Rahugana composed many hymns in the Rgveda, these events must date to the Rgvedic period.

The most important historical reference to Mithila/Janakpur is in the Hindu epic Ramayana, where Lord Rama's wife Sita Devi (also called Janaki) is said to have been the princess of Videha. Her father, King Janak, found baby Sita in a furrow of a field and raised her as his daughter. When she grew up, the king announced that she should be wed by whoever was able to string the divine bow of Shiva. Though many royal suitors tried, Lord Rama, prince of Ayodhya, alone could even lift the bow. As Rama and Sita are major figures in Hinduism, Janakpur is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.

In addition, both the great saints Gautama Buddha, founder of Buddhism, and Vardamana Mahavira, the 24th and final Tirthankara of the Jain religion, are said to have lived in Mithila/Janakpur. The region was an important centre of Indian history during the first millennium.

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

> INTRODUCTION
Jungle safari in Nepal guides you into exotic wildlife housing rich bio-diversity amidst its rolling prairies, tranquil wetlands and majestic woodlands. Nepal has nine national parks and three wildlife reserves; Royal Chitwan National Park, Everest National Park, Annapurna Conservation, Langtan National Park, Royal Bardiya Park, Rara National Park, Khaptad National Park, Shukla Phanta Wildlife, She Phoksundo National Park, Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, Kosi Tappu wildlife Reserve, Parsa Wildlife Reserve.

> WILDLIFE SAFARI IN NEPAL

Chitwan Wildlife

ROYAL CHITWAN NATIONAL PARK
Located in the Terai, Chitwan park is the most famous national park of Nepal. Enjoy an elephant ride, a safari or just relax at your resort, this destination has a lot to offer...


Tiger NEpal
ROYAL BARDIA NATIONAL PARK
A visit to the Bardia park is the perfect alternative to the Chitwan park because of its remote location and its wilderness.

Tiger NEpal
BIRD WATCHING TOURS
Nepal is the home of thousands of incredible species of birds. During an expedition in Koshi Tappu, you will encounter more than 250 different species of amazing and beautiful birds.



Explore Himalaya as a leading Nepal jungle safari operator and eco tourism company delivers strong commitment to conserve the environment and wildlife. We take you on Nepal wildlife safaris through the untamed jungles and grandeur of nature. As you explore further into the wilderness in your jeep safari, you will encounter rare species of mongoose, cats, leopard, rhinoceros, wild boar, porcupines, hyena, bats, antelope, squirrels etc in their natural habitat roaming around freely. Moreover, you will also be sightseeing unique species of birds, flora and fauna in your elephant safari wildlife tour. If fun and adventure are what you are seeking, then you surely want to go for Nepal wildlife safari holidays. You wouldn’t want to miss an opportunity to capture your experience and memories through wildlife photography in your souvenir wildlife photos.

Rafting in nepal

> INTRODUCTION
Rafting in Nepal gained immense popularity as tourism culture started to blossom in Nepal in early eighties. A series of the world’s most outstanding white-water river rafting and kayaking are found here. White water rafting means cruising down the gushing waters of river in an inflatable rubber raft or kayak over roaring waves and swirling fast-moving water for the excitement of a lifetime.

> RAFTING TRIPS IN NEPAL

Rafting in Nepal


SUNKOSHI RIVER
KALI GANDAKI RIVER
BHOTE KOSHI RIVER
TRISULI RIVER

Drifting along the raging waves of river Kali Gandakhi, Trisuli, Sun Kosi, Karnali or Bheri with scintillating kaleidoscope of high mountain peaks, dense vegetations and mysterious wilderness as its backdrop unfolds irresistible challenges and adventure. Nepal white water rafting can be experienced as a short 2 day excursion, or in the style of an expedition where we walk in for two days and then paddle a distance of 150 km or more over a period of two weeks. Almost every trek or cultural tour in Nepal or Tibet can be round off with ‘rafting trips’ or can be combined with a wild life safari trip.

Explore Himalaya, a leading rafting trips operator in Nepal, offers unparalleled Nepal Whitewater Rafting packages suitable for any level of experience. Our river rafting trips are designed perfectly for novices and families to ultimate thrill-seekers. If adventure spirit, flexibility, patience, and boldness are ingrained in you then Nepali rafting trips are rightfully meant for you. Our river rafting guides are professionals trained in emergency wilderness first aid and swift-water rescue. Keeping your safety as our utmost priority we use the best rafts, flotation devices, helmets and paddles. Please have a look through our website for detailed information on ‘Nepal Rafting trips’ graded according to the difficulty of their run.

Mustang

The word 'Mustang' conjures up ideas of remoteness and seclusion, a region lost amongst the mountains. This was an independent country until it was closely consolidated into Nepal just a few decades ago.

The kingdom of Mustang lies in the rain shadow formed by the Annapurna & Nilgiri Himalayas and thus gets very little rain which fortunately, makes the area ideal for trekking even in the mid monsoon while the other areas of Nepal remain unsuitable for trekking due to heavy monsoon rains.

The Trek to this mystique kingdom which requires a special permit that costs US$ 700 per person [valid for 10 Days] begins at the airstrip of Jomsom after flying up early from Pokhara. The trek is rather easy as most of the route goes along the bank of Kali Gandaki River and eventually leads you to Lo Manthang, the capital of Mustang at 3730 meter, which is the highest point on this trip.

Fascinating areas: culturally and historically, picturesque villages, monasteries, unique landscapes with easy access and very few trekkers going to this area are the major highlights of this trip. This is among the very few adventure trips in Nepal which can be done throughout the year.

The region of Mustang lies north of the main Himalayan range in the area known as the trans-Himalaya. A vast high valley, arid and dry, it has a barren desert-like appearance similar to the Tibetan Plateau and is characterized by eroded canyons and colorful stratified rock formations. It was once an important route for crossing the Himalaya between Tibet and Nepal, and many of the old salt caravans passed through Mustang.

Known to its inhabitants as Lo, Mustang was only opened to trekkers in March 1992 and you will be part of a small privileged minority to visit this remote outpost of Nepal. The capital of the Mustang district is actually Jomsom but the Tibetan influenced area north of Kagbeni is known as Upper Mustang. It is this area which we will explore fully, discovering the wonders of the architecture, language, culture and traditions which are almost purely Tibetan in this once-upon-a-time mystical kingdom

Nepal Trekking

Mustang Nepal Trekking

> TRIP FACTS
Trip duration: 17 Days
Grade: Moderate to fairly challenging - Grade Explanation
Activity: Sightseeing and trekking
Starts in: Kathmandu
Ends in: Kathmandu
Trek type: FOT (Fully Organized Trek or Camping Trek)
Accommodation: Hotel & camping
Transportation: Flights & private car
Maximum altitude: 3840m

Kanchenjunga North Bse Camp

Kanchenjunga, the world's third highest mountain, lies on Nepal's eastern border with Sikkim. On trekking along the challenging trails amid the mesmerizing vistas of Kanchenjunga, we get to witness exotic wilderness. This wonderful trek begins and ends at the small airstrip at Sukhetar [Taplejung], which lies in the remote north east corner of Nepal. It takes you through fascinating villages and pristine forests to the awe-inspiring South Face Base Camp at Ramche, before crossing the Mirgin La to the north side of Kanchenjunga and the Pang Pema base camp. As trekkers skirt through this amazing adventurous and exploratory trail, they attain a glorious and unforgettable experience that was so much worth the trip.


> TRIP FACTS
Trip duration: 27 Days
Grade: Strenuous Trek - Grade Explanation
Activity: Sightseeing and trekking
Starts in: Kathmandu
Ends in: Kathmandu
Trek type: FOT (Fully Organized Trek or Camping Trek)
Accommodation: Hotel & camping
Transportation: Flights & private car
Maximum altitude: 5140m

> OUTLINE ITINERARY
Day 01 - Arrive Kathmandu
Day 02 -
Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
Day 03
-
Fly to Biratnagar
Day 04 -
Fly to Suketar & trek to Lali Kharka [2220m]
Day 05 -
Trek to Keswa [2100m]
Day 06 -
Trek to Mamanke [2000m]
Day 07 -
Trek to Yamphudin [1650m]
Day 08 -
Trek to Lamite jungle camp [2920m]
Day 09 -
Trek to Torontan [3080m]
Day 10 -
Trek to Tseram [3750m]
Day 11 - Trek to Ramche [4360m]
Day 12 - Ramche - Exploration
Day 13 - Trekking beyond the Mirgin La
Day 14 - Trek to Gunsa [3475m]
Day 15 - Trek to Khambachen [4040m]
Day 16 - Trek to Lhonak [4790m]
Day 17 - Trek to Pang Pema [5140m]
Day 18 - Pang Pema rest day
Day 19 & 20 - Retreat trek to Gunsa [3430m]
Day 21 - Trek to Kyapra [2300m]
Day 22 - Trek to Sakathum [1600m]
Day 23 - Trek to Chirwa [1180m]
Day 24 - Trek to Phurumba
Day 25 - Trek to Taplejung - Suketar [2300m]
Day 26 - Flight to Kathmandu via Biratnagar
Day 27 - Depart Kathmandu