Hiking Phulchowki

Yesterday, we embarked on what was my second hike in the Kathmandu Valley. Now that I was no longer a virgin to our surrounding hills after conquering Shivapuri peak last week, we set out to top Phulchowki, the highest peak in the Valley at around 9,200 feet. At this height, Phulchowki is famous for sweeping views of the Valley and the glacial Himalayan peaks beyond. Unfortunately, we also learned just before departing that this hiking path is known for robberies and muggings of hikers. After leaving our nicer camera at home with other valuables (so, please forgive these photos) and loading ourselves with water and courage, we embarked on the hike with small a crew of friends, old and new.

A bit like the proverbial large and small dog (the former merely barks, the latter bites), Phulchowki proved an easier, if longer, hike than her shorter sibling Shivapuri. If our steep path up Shivapuri was an unending Stairmaster climb, our winding path up Phulchowki was a treadmill walk on a varying but manageable incline.

The afternoon started sunny, but the air proved a bit hazy in the altitude, obstructing our views of the world's highest mountains. Still, on the way up we glimpsed sun-dappled scenes as we watched rain clouds tumble into the Valley and sail their way toward us.

As we neared the top, a light rain arrived, gently refreshing our incline-weary bodies.

(the front approaches)

Sunshine greeted us at the peak, where we ate lunch in the shadows of prayer flags flapping in the Valley's highest breeze. We weren't rewarded with stunning views, but I wouldn't say we weren't rewarded.

On our descent, we encountered rain again.

Rain turned to hail (yes, hail), and this bout with precipitation felt less like a salve for burning quads than an assaulting reminder of Mother Nature's fickle whims. Especially if you negligently failed to armor yourself with anything other than shorts and a thin t-shirt. (Note to self: check weather forecast and plan accordingly on next hike.)

It took our group about 4 hours to walk the approximately 13 km to the top, moving at a very reasonable pace and allowing for multiple snack, water, and -- let's be honest here -- rest breaks. Our descent took about 2 and a half hours, and during the moments of rain and hail I felt every minute of it.

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About Sarangkot

The view of the Annapurna Himalaya from Sarangkot (adult Rs 25) is almost a religious experience. From here, you can see a panoramic sweep of Himalayan peaks, from Dhaulagiri (8167m) in the west to the perfect pyramid that is Machhapuchhare (6997m) and the rounded peak of Annapurna II (7937m) in the east. Most people come here at dawn or dusk, when the sun picks out the peaks, transforming them from a purple-pink to a celestial gold. If you feel noisy teenagers are ruining the peace at the viewing tower, try walking further along to the secluded grassy helicopter pad (though there are no seats here).

The main village is just below the ridge, but a set of steps leads uphill to a dramatic viewpoint in the ruins of an ancient kot (fort). The army currently occupies it, but photography is fine, as long as you don’t take pictures of the soldiers.

There’s a ruined fort at Kaskikot (1788m), a one-hour walk west of Sarangkot along the ridge road, with similarly jaw-dropping views.

How to get to Saragkot You'll need to think about the time of year you are going first. If it's peak season then you should have good clear views. But if it's monsson season it might be hazing or cloudy. You'll also need to think about brining appropriate clothing e.g. rain gear (read the weather guide to Nepal for more). You'll also need to think about whether you want to be there at dawn or dusk. Most people say dawn and sunrise gives a better view. By taxi: The most popular way to get to Saragkot is via a private taxi. Arrange a taxi the evening before and they will pick you up - it takes about 30-40 minutes to drive up depending on the road conditions. They will drop you about 15-20 minutes walk from the top. A taxi will also wait about an hour for you and then return you to your hotel. Cost: taxis can charge anywhere from 600-1200 rupees - bargain hard!! By Motorcycle: Either hire your own or hire one with a driver. There are many enterprising young people in Pokhara who can be easily presuaded to take you to Sarangkot. Do be aware that the road is quite broken and you might be riding in the dark. Wearing a helmet would be sensible! Cost: Hiring a motorcycle for the day USD$35-50+. Hiring a bike and driver 300-600 rupees. Walk: You can walk/hike/cycle to Sarangkot. It takes about 3-5 hours. The trail leaves from the baglung bus park or you can try the remoter trail from Lake Phewa Tal. For a dawn view it means a very early start or rather a late night start which can be dangerous due to bad paths and a lack of lighting. Likewise if coming back. Cost: Free By Tour: Finally there's a tour option. These are often run by hotels or agents. It's practically the same as getting a taxi yourself as your guide may not even accompany you to the viewing platform. If this is the case you might just try to round up some people and share a taxi up. Cost: Tour can cost over 800 rupees each. There are some hotels which operate group discounts which can lower the cost significantly.

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Brief Introduction to Muktinath

 
Introduction
Muktinath-Chumig Gyatsa is a sacred place for both Hindus and Tibetan Buddhists at 3750 meters (12,300 feet) at the Annapurna Circuit in the Himalayas of Nepal. It is a great example of how two religions can share the same holy spot with mutual respect and support.
Attributes
In Muktinath-Chumig Gyatsa all the elements are represented, not only earth, air and holy water, but also fire. Beside trees are growing at an unusual altitude. For this and reasons unseen yogis from both religions do their meditation at Muktinath. 

Padmasambhava & Dakinis
The local name for Muktinath is Chumig Gyatsa (Hundred Waters). The tradional caretakers of Muktinath-Chumig Gyatsa are the Tibetan Buddhist Chumig Gyatsa ('Muktinath') nuns with the head of the Gye Lhaki Dung as their abbot. This family is popularly know as the Lama Domar family, an unbroken lineage of Tibetan Buddhist Nyingma lamas from Muktinath Valley, which has Chumig Gyatsa as its religious seat for centuries. The current abbot of Chumig Gyatsa is Muktinath Lama Wangyal.

According toTibetan Buddhists Muktinath-Chumig Gyatsa is the home of 21 Taras, female dieties, and the residence of many Dakinis, known as Sky Dancers, energetic beings in female form, evocative of the movement of energy in space. It is of great importance for Buddhists that Chumig Gyatsa is one of the 24 Tantric places. Padmasambhava plus the Mahasiddhas blessed it with their visit. The famous Tibetan yogi Shabkar visted Muktinath in 1818 and stayed for several days to 'connect to the place', as his autobiography tells us. The Padmasambhava Statue in Narsingh Gompa can be considered the most holy object together with the Chenrezig statue.

This is a very brief enumeration. More information on Buddhist backgrounds - for instance on the natural fire - can be found in the pilgrimage guide "The Clear Mirror", written down by the late abbot of Chumig Gyatsa, Muktinath Lama Jampal Rabgyé Rinpoche. See also the research published by the Muktikshetra Publication Committee, mentioned below.

Lord Vishnu & Shalagramas
For Hindus, beside the natural fire representing Brahma and the holy waters, the central meaning of the Muktinath area is the veneration of the god Vishnu in the form of ammonites (shilas) called Salagrama-Shilas.
There are many stories which tell of Vishnu turning into stone and all of them are closely connected to the holy Kali Gandaki River. This river, also known as the Salagrami, is a few hours walking from Muktinath-Chumig Gyatsa.  

Lord Vishnu & Shalagramas
For Hindus, beside the natural fire representing Brahma and the holy waters, the central meaning of the Muktinath area is the veneration of the god Vishnu in the form of ammonites (shilas) called Salagrama-Shilas.
There are many stories which tell of Vishnu turning into stone and all of them are closely connected to the holy Kali Gandaki River. This river, also known as the Salagrami, is a few hours walking from Muktinath-Chumig Gyatsa.

Salagrama
The building in 1815 of the Buddhist-Hindu temple of Vishnu and Chenrezig at Muktinath-Chumig Gyatsa was initiated by the Nepali Queen Subarna Prabha who considered Muktinath-Chumig Gyatsa Salagrama. The Purana legends (300-1000 AD) mention Salagrama being the most holy spot connected to the Gandaki River. Salagrama is one of The 108 Temples & Celestial Abodes of Vishnu referred by the Tamil hymns of the Alwars of the 1st millennium CE. Although the veneration of Vishnu is central nowadays, there is also a connection with Krishna as well as with Shiva.
 

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Manakamana Temple

Situated atop a 1300-meter hill, 105 kilometers to the west of Kathmandu, the Manakamana Devi temple is a highly venerated sacred place of the Hindu Goddess Bhagwati, an incarnation of Parvati. The name Manakamana is derived from two words, Mana, meaning heart and Kamana, meaning wish. It is believed that the Goddess Bhagwati rewards those who make the pilgrimage to her shrine by granting their wishes, and she is especially popular with Newari newlyweds who pray for sons.

The history and location of the Manakamana temple are explained by a curious legend. The Queen of the 17th century Gorkha King, Rama Shah, was said to have magical powers that only her devotee, Lakhan Thapa, knew about. One day the Queen’s husband became aware of her secret when he saw her in the form of a goddess and Lakhan Thapa in the form of a Lion. Soon thereafter the King mysteriously died and the Queen, as was the custom of the day, committed sati (ritual immolation) upon her husband’s funeral pyre. Prior to her death, the Queen had promised her devotee Lakhan Thapa that he would soon again see her. Some time later while plowing a field, a farmer discovered a stone from which blood and milk were pouring. When Lakhan Thapa learned of this he was convinced it was a sign from the dead queen, and at the site where the stone had been discovered he constructed a temple in her honor. The present 19th century temple is a replacement of the one built by Lakhan Thapa. Tradition has it that the temple priest must be a descendent of Lakhan Thapa.

The Manakamana temple overlooks the Trisuli and Marshyang-di river valleys, and offers breathtaking views of the Manaslu, Himalchuli and Annapurna mountains to the north. The temple is set in a square, which is overlooked by an enormous sacred magnolia tree. Two popular festivals, Dasain (in September-October) and Nag Panchami (July – August), draw large numbers of pilgrims from throughout the country. In the past, pilgrims used to make a long and arduous trek up to the hilltop temple from the town of Kurintar on the Trisuli River. Nowadays, a cable car ride of 10-15 minutes brings visitors from the base-station in Cheres to the temple site.

An hour walk from the Manakamana temple leads past the Bakeshwar Mahadev Mandir Shiva temple to the Lakhan Thapa Gurpha sacred cave, which is named after the founder of the Manakamana temple.

Temple of the Hindu Goddess Bhagwati, Manakamana      

Temple of the Hindu Goddess Bhagwati, Manakamana      


Temple of the Hindu Goddess Bhagwati, Manakamana    

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Lumbini, the Birthplace of the Lord Buddha

The Lord Buddha was born in 623 BC in the sacred area of Lumbini located in the Terai plains of southern Nepal, testified by the inscription on the pillar erected by the Mauryan Emperor Asoka in 249 BC. Lumbini is one of the holiest places of one of the world's great religions, and its remains contain important evidence about the nature of Buddhist pilgrimage centres from as early as the 3rd century BC.

The complex of structures within the archaeological conservation area includes the Shakya Tank; the remains within the Maya Devi Temple consisting of brick structures in a cross-wall system dating from the 3rd century BC to the present century and the sandstone Ashoka pillar with its Pali inscription in Brahmi script. Additionally there are the excavated remains of Buddhist viharas (monasteries) of the 3rd century BC to the 5th century AD and the remains of Buddhist stupas (memorial shrines) from the 3rd century BC to the 15th century AD. The site is now being developed as a Buddhist pilgrimage centre, where the archaeological remains associated with the birth of the Lord Buddha form a central feature.

Criterion (iii): As the birthplace of the Lord Buddha, testified by the inscription on the Asoka pillar, the sacred area in Lumbini is one of the most holy and significant places for one of the world’s great religions.

Criterion (vi): The archaeological remains of the Buddhist viharas (monasteries) and stupas (memorial shrines) from the 3rd century BC to the 15th century AD, provide important evidence about the nature of Buddhist pilgrimage centres from a very early period.

Integrity

The integrity of Lumbini has been achieved by means of preserving the archaeological remains within the property boundary that give the property its Outstanding Universal Value. The significant attributes and elements of the property have been preserved. The buffer zone gives the property a further layer of protection. Further excavations of potential archaeological sites and appropriate protection of the archaeological remains are a high priority for the integrity of the property. The property boundary however does not include the entire archaeological site and various parts are found in the buffer zone. The entire property including the buffer zone is owned by the Government of Nepal and is being managed by the Lumbini Development Trust and therefore there is little threat of development or neglect. However the effects of industrial development in the region have been identified as a threat to the integrity of the property.

Authenticity

The authenticity of the archaeological remains within the boundaries has been confirmed through a series of excavations since the discovery of the Asoka pillar in 1896. The remains of viharas, stupas and numerous layers of brick structures from the 3rd century BC to the present century at the site of the Maya Devi Temple are proof of Lumbini having been a centre of pilgrimage from early times. The archaeological remains require active conservation and monitoring to ensure that the impact of natural degradation, influence of humidity and the impact of the visitors are kept under control. The property continues to express its Outstanding Universal Value through its archaeological remains. The delicate balance must be maintained between conserving the archaeological vestiges of the property while providing for the pilgrims.

Protection and management requirements

The property site is protected by the Ancient Monument Preservation Act 1956. The site management is carried out by the Lumbini Development Trust, an autonomous and non-profit making organization. The entire property is owned by the Government of Nepal. The property falls within the centre of the Master Plan area, the planning of which was initiated together with the United Nations and carried out by Prof. Kenzo Tange between 1972 and 1978.

The long-term challenges for the protection and management of the property are to control the impact of visitors, and natural impacts including humidity and the industrial development in the region. A Management Plan is in the process of being developed to ensure the long-term safeguarding of the archaeological vestiges of the property while allowing for the property to continue being visited by pilgrims and tourists from around the world.

Long Description

As the birthplace of the Lord Buddha - the apostle of peace and the light of Asia was born in 623 BC - the sacred area of Lumbini is one of the holiest places of one of the world's great religions, and its remains contain important evidence about the nature of Buddhist pilgrimage centres from a very early period. Lumbini, in the South-Western Terai of Nepal, evokes a kind of holy sentiment to the millions of Buddhists all over the world, like Jerusalem to Christians and Mecca to Muslims.

Lumbini is the place where the Buddha, known as the Tathagata, was born. It is the place which should be visited and seen by a person of devotion and which should cause awareness and apprehension of the nature of impermanence. The site and its surrounding area is endowed with a rich natural setting of domesticable fauna and favourable agricultural environ. Historically, the region is an exquisite treasure-trove of ancient ruins and antiquities, dating back to the pre-Christian era. The site, described as a beautiful garden in the Buddha's time, still retains its legendary charm and beauty.

The birthplace of the Gautama Buddha, Lumbini, is one of the four holy places of Buddhism. It is said in the Parinibbana Sutta that Buddha himself identified four places of future pilgrimage: the sites of his birth, Enlightenment, First Discourse, and death. All these events happened outside in nature under trees. There is no particular significance in this, other than it perhaps explains why Buddhists have always respected the environment and natural law.

Lumbini is situated at the foothills of the Himalayas in modern Nepal. In the Buddha's time, Lumbini was a beautiful garden full of green and shady sal trees (Shorea robusta ). The garden and its tranquil environs were owned by both the Shakyas and the clans. King Suddhodana, father of Gautama Buddha, was of the Shakya dynasty and belonged to the Kshatriya (warrior caste). Maya Devi, his mother, gave birth to the child on her way to her parent's home in Devadaha while resting in Lumbini under a sal tree in the month of May, 642 BC. The beauty of Lumbini is described in Pali and Sanskrit literature. Maya Devi, it is said, was spellbound to see the natural grandeur of Lumbini. While she was standing, she felt labour pains and catching hold of a drooping branch of a sal tree, she gave birth to a baby, the future Buddha.

In 249 BC, when the Indian Emperor Ashoka visited Lumbini, it was a flourishing village. Ashoka constructed four stupas and a stone pillar with a figure of a horse on top. The stone pillar bears an inscription, which in translation runs as follows: 'King Piyadasi (Ashoka), beloved of devas, in the 20th year of the coronation, himself made a royal visit, Buddha Sakyamuni having been born here; a stone railing was built and a stone pillar erected to the Bhagavan having been born here, Lumbini village was taxed reduced and entitled to the eight part (only)'.

Lumbini remained neglected for centuries. In 1895, Feuhrer, a famous German archaeologist, discovered the great pillar while wandering about the foothills of the Churia range. Further exploration and excavation of the surrounding area revealed the existence of a brick temple and sandstone sculpture within the temple itself, which depicts the scenes of the Buddha's birth.

It is pointed out by scholars that the temple of Maya Devi was constructed over the foundations of more than one earlier temple or stupa, and that this temple was probably built on an Ashokan stupa itself. To the south of the Maya Devi temple there is the famous sacred bathing pool known as Puskarni. It is believed that Maya Devi took a bath in this pool before the delivery. By the side of the Ashoka pillar a river which flows south-east and is locally called the Ol. In 1996, an archaeological dig unearthed a 'flawless stone' placed there by Ashoka in 249 BC to mark the precise location of the Buddha's birth more than 2,600 years ago. if authenticated, the find will put Lumbini even more prominently on the map for millions of religious pilgrims.

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CHITWAN NATIONAL PARK

Chitwan National Park has long been one the country' treasures of natural wonders. The park is situated in south central Nepal, covering 932 sq. km. in the subtropical lowlands of the inner TERAI. The area comprising the Tikauli forest-from Rapti river to the foothills of the Mahabharat-extending over an area of 175 sq. km. was declared Mrigakunja in 1959. In 1963, the area south of Rapti river was demarcated as a rhinoceros sanctuary. The area was gazetted as the country's first National Park in 1973.

In 1996, an area of 750 sq. km. surrounding the park was declared a buffer zone which consists of forests and private lands. The park and the local people jointly initiate community development activities and manage natural resources in the bufferzone. The Government has made provision of plowing back 30-50 percent of the park revenue for community development in the bufferzone.  Features: The park consists of a diversity of ecosystems, including the Churia hills, ox-bow lakes and the flood plains of the Rapti, Reu and Narayani rivers. The Churia hills rise slowly towards the east from 150m. to more than 800m. The western portion of the park is comprised of the lower but more ruged “Someshwor hills”. The park shares its western boundary with the “Parsa Wildlife Reserve”. The Chitwan valley consists tropical and subtropical forests. Sal forests cover 70 percent of the park. Sal leaves are used locally for plates in festivals and religious offering. Grassland covers 20% of the park area. There are more that 50 different types of grasses, including the elephant grass (Saccharum spp.), renowned for its immense height. It can grow up to 8meter. The shorter grasses (Imperata spp.) are used for roof thatching, and mats, rope and paper making purpose. The park is home for more that 50 mammal species, over 525 birds, and 55 amphibians and reptiles. The endangered fauna found in the park area.  Climate: The park has a range of climatic seasons, each offering a unique experience. October through February with an average temperature of 25°C offer an enjoyable climates. From March to June temperatures can reach as high as 43°C. The hot humid days gives way to the monsoon season that typically lasts from late June until September. Rivers become flooded sometime during the season the scenery looks most amazing with unexpected water level. In late January, local villagers are allowed to cut thatch grasses to meet their needs, which offer a better and easy viewing of wildlife to visitors. Also, between September and November, and February and April, migratory birds and create spectacular bird watching opportunity. While the monsoon rains brings lush vegetation, most trees flower in late winter. The “Palash tree” known as the “flame of the forest” and slick cotton tree have spectacular crimson flowers that can be seen from a distance.  Facilities: The park offers interesting sites and activities. The display at the “Visitor Centre at Sauraha” provides fascinating information on wildlife and conservation programs. The women's user groups' souvenir shop offers a variety of handifrafts and other local products for gifts and souvenirs. Elephant safari provides oppourtunity to get a closer view of the endangered one-horned rhinoceros. One may also get a glimpse of the elusive Bengal tiger. The “Elephant Breeding Centre at Khorshor”, sauraha gives you information on domesticated elephant and the baby elephants born there. The museum at Kasara (Parks headquarters) has informative display. Near the HQ visitors can see Bikram baba (Hindu religious site) archival value. A short walk (1km) from the park HQ will take you to the “Gharial Breeding Centre” which is also home to the “Marsh Mugger” and number of turtiles. Inside the park there are seven resorts run by park concessionaries that can provide lodging, fooding and access to wildlife activities by providing many facilities. Various resorts and lodges situated outside the park also offer a variety of services.  Best Time To Visit Chitwan: Chitwan National Park - October to May, Bird Watching - December to March. Maximum temperature can reach up to 95 Fahrenheit (35 C) in April through September. November through February are cooler months with average temperature around 67 Fahrenheit.

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Famous place to view sun rise..

A few weeks ago I wrote an article about ‘nearly trekking in Kathmandu Valley’. We walked from Changunarayan to Talkot but didn’t quite make it to Nagarkot. I had heard the view from Nagarkot was wonderful and it was possible to see Everest so when my friends mentioned they were taking a trip up there I was happy to join them.

We planned to catch the public bus to Nagarkot, spend the night in a hotel and wake up early to see the sunrise. I was secretly more excited about the chance of getting a hotel with a nice hot shower then I was at waking up at 5am to see the sun. It has been about three months since I have had a hot shower which didn’t involve some kind of bucket and jug arrangement.

At Ratna Park we found out there was not a direct bus to Nagarkot. The bus from goes to Bhaktapur and then you need to change buses to get to Nagarkot. When we arrived in Bhaktapur we simply asked people in the street and they directed up to another bus park a few blocks away.

The bus from Bhaktapur to Nagarkot is more like a big van and we were told it leaves every 40 mins till about 5pm. It gets pretty packed and I wish we had decided to wait until the next bus. I travelled for an hour and a half sitting on top of a sack of rice, wedged in between one of my friends and an old man who kept trying to feel my legs. The bus cost 40 NR.

The road to Nagarkot has some wonderful views of the countryside and at this time of yeah it is still nice and green. The road is pretty narrow and feels more dangerous than the road between Kathmandu and Pokhara.

The bus just stopped at a roadside café (more like a tin shed with a woman selling tea) and the bus driver told everyone to get off. We had arrived in Nagarkot pretty late, it was already getting dark and there wasn’t a hotel to be seen. All the bus passengers seemed to be shuffling off up the road so we followed.

A five minute walk will lead you to the first of a number of hotels which are all pretty much the same. Hotel Himalayan Heart, a red brick building on the right side, was clean enough, warm enough, cheap enough and they had lemon sugar crepes on the menu. I was happy. A double room was 400NR. We were told they had hot showers.

Further up the road are a number of more plush hotels. Rooms range from 600NR-1200NR, depending how well you bargain. The cheapest offer we got was 300NR at Hotel Fish and Chips. The hotel had a lot of character but didn’t have hot showers so we decided to splurge the extra 100NR at Hotel Himalayan Heart.

In hindsight we should have spent the extra 200NR and got a hotel with actual hot water. The water at Hotel Himalayan Heart could have been considered hot if you had never had a HOT shower before. It was warm enough to stand under but in no way was it HOT. If you’re visiting in summer then you don’t need hot water and everything else about this place was fine.

Nagarkot was pretty relaxing. There is really nothing to do in town except wait for the light to come so the TV works. When we woke in the morning there was a thick blanket of cloud stretching across the valley and hiding all the mountains. I didn’t see a single mountain, NOT ONE!

I think Nagarkot would be a nice stop over if you happen to be trekking that way. There isn’t much to see, especially if the weather is bad.

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Boudhanath History and Beauty

120ft in diameter , There is width and 43m in height, Its simplicity of form is its principal feature, unique among monumental stupas in the valley in its lack of the appended five shrines of the Buddha. Some consider it represents the Adi Buddha, the first or Primordial Buddha,free of conceptual emanations, Only the steps built into it on the north side, seemingly ladder that sakyamuni ascended into Tushita heaven, breaks its uniformity.

A thick layer of whitewash cats the dome and the form of a double lotus depicted in saffron water colors it. This can be sponsored on various auspicious dates, and is also done annually on Dasain Purne occurring n the Full Moon in September by the Boudhanath Area Development Committee.

Beneath the dome, is an added terrace with a remarkable 108 niches filled with stone sculptured deities of the Nyingmapa School's pantheon. They replace the usual five Buddha shrines in delining the content of the stupa-mandala, these image were almost certainly commissioned all at once at sakya Zangpo in the 16th century, when the present stupa was built or there after.The principal dawn and dusk rite of worship of the stupa in a clock wise direction( this is known as Kora). turning the Mani wheels fixed in the surrounding wall and reciting mantras of the deity of compassion. This usually preceded and concluded in prayer to the three jewels and is said to be most effective at dawn or dusk n the 10th,15th and final day of lunar month and ups various specific auspicious festival days. It is during these occasions the Boudhanath is said to be truly alive.

Boudhanath stupa is a symbol of Nepal, a tribute to its rich spirituality and culture symbolizing a remnant of the past and a stepping stone towards a better future.

As in other stupa architecture, this stupa also has Varochana at the center following by Aksobhya,Ratna Sambhava, Amitabha and Amogha Siddhi in east, south,west and north direction respectively. Similarly, there are one hundred and eight small niches around the stupa accomodating the icons of Buddhas, Bodhisatavs and other female deities along with conjoint figure in erotic poses. Likewise, at the bottom level, it is surrounded with the praying wheels embossed with the famous mantra Om Mani Padme Hum Fixed in more than hundred and forty inches.

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Places to Visit in Pokhara

Pokhara is a remarkable place of natural beauty. Situated at an altitude of 827m from the sea level and 200km west of Kathmandu (Capital of Nepal) valley, the city is known as a center of adventure. This enchanting city has several beautiful lakes and offers stunning panoramic views of Himalayan peaks. The serenity of lakes and the magnificence of the Himalayas rising behind them create an ambiance of peace and magic. So today the city has not only become the starting point for most popular trekking and rafting destinations but also a place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Pokhara is part of a once vibrant trade route extending between India and Tibet. To this day, mule trains can be seen camped on the outskirts of the town, bringing goods to trade from remote regions of the Himalaya. This is the land of Gurungs and Magars, hardworking farmers and valorous warriors who have earned worldwide fame as Gurkha soldiers. The Bramans, Chetries, Newars, Thakalis are another important ethnic group here, are known for their entrepreneurship.

Climate:
The climate of Pokhara is slightly warmer than Kathmandu with daytime temperature hovering around 17 degrees Celsius in winter and 32 degrees in summer. The monsoon season which lasts from mid-June to mid-September is very wet; in fact Pokhara records the highest rainfall in the country. Best time to visit is between October and April.

The activities of foreign visitors to Pokhara focus around two districts known as Damside and Lakeside (or Pardi and Baidam, in Nepali, respectively). These two areas, with their strips of hotels and restaurants, are a few Kilometers south-west of the main Pokhara Bazaar.

Fewa Lake Begnas lake and Rupa lake, Barahi temple, World Peace Pagoda Seti Gandaki, Devi's Fall, Gupteswar Gupha (cave), Mahendra Gupha(cave), Chameri Gupha (Bats Cave), The Old Bazaar, Bindbyabasini Temple Matepani Gumbha (Buddhist Monastery) Bhadrakali Mandir, Regional Museum, International Mountain Museum, Gorkha Memorial Museum, Annapurna Museum, Himalayan View Nightlife and Entertainment Around Pokhara.

Fewa Tal (Lake):

Fewa Lake, the second largest lake in the kingdom, roughly measuring 1.5 km by 4 km, is the centre of all attractions in Pokhara. The enchanting lake is an idyllic playground. Brightly painted wooden boats and sailboats can be rented on reasonable cost around lakeside. The lake is neither deep (roughly 47 meters at most), the water is warm and swimming is pleasant. The eastern shoreline of the lake, popularly known as Lakeside or Baidam, consists of seemingly endless strip of lodges, restaurants, bookshops and souvenir shops. One of the fascinating parts of lakeside is the splendid view of the mountains, especially when the still water reflects the peaks, creating a double image.

Barahi temple:

This is the most important religious monument in Pokhara. Built almost in the middle of Fewa lake, the two storied pagoda representing the female force of Hindu (Shakti). Devotees can be seen, especially on Saturdays, carrying male animals and fowl across the lake to be sacrificed to the deity.Begnas Lake and Rupa Lake:

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


World Peace Pagoda:

The pagoda is a massive Buddhist stupa and is situated on top of a hill on the southern shore of Fewa lake. Besides being an impressive sight in itself, the shrine is a great vantage point which offers spectacular views of the Annapurna range and Pokhara city. You can get there by crossing the lake by boat and then hiking up the hill.

Seti Gandaki (River Gorge):

Flowing right through the city, the boisterous river runs completely underground at places. Amazingly, at certain points the river appears hardly two meters wide. But its depth is quite beyond imagination - over 20 meters! Mahendra Pul (bridge) provides a perfect view of the river's dreadful rush and the deep gorge made by its powerful flow.

Devi's fall:

Locally known as Patale Chhango (Hell's fall), Devi's fall (also known as Devin's or David's) is an awesome waterfall lying about 2 km south-west of Pokhara airport on the highway to Tansen, Butwal. An interesting modern legend says that a foreigner named David was skinny-dipping in the Pardi Khola (river) when the floodgates of the dam were opened, sweeping him into an underground passage beneath the fall, never to be seen again.

Gupteswar Gupha (Cave):

Gupteswar Gupha, a sacred cave, lies 2 km from Pokhara airport on the Siddhartha Highway leading southwest from the city. The entrance is right across from Devi's Fall and the cave is almost 3 km long. It has some big hall-size rooms and some passages where you have to crawl on all fours. This cave holds special value for Hindus since a phallic symbol of Lord Shiva is preserved here in the condition it was discovered. An entrance fee of NRs. 50.00 is charged and taking pictures inside the cave is prohibited.

Mahendra Gupha (cave) and Chameri Gupha:

Mahendra Gupha is the large limestone cave. Shepherd boys are said to have discovered it around 1950. A two hour walk to the north of Pokhara, it is best to bring your own torch to see the stalactites and stalagmites, although most of them have been carted out by souvenir hunters. Chamero Gupha locally called Chamero Odhaar ("House of Bats") located near by Mahendra Gufa

The Old Bazaar (Ganesh Tole and Ram Krishna Tole):

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

Bindbyabasini Temple:

Bindhyabasini temple is the center of religious activity in the old bazaar. It is dedicated to goddess Bindbyabasini, yet another manifestation of shakti (Power) of Hindu.

Matepani Gumba (Buddhist Monastery):

There is a splendid Buddhist Monastery on the top of the small forested hill above Matepani east of Mahendra pul. It overlooks a large section of the Pokhara city and once there on find oneself lost in time amid the chanting Ramas, there colossal guardian images of the Buddha accompanying two other gurus and a prayer house with exquisitely carved columns and friezes.

Bhadrakali Temple:

To the south of the Buddhist Monastery there is another small but very beautiful hill and in this pleasant sylvan setting lies Bhadrakali temple which also merits a visit.

Museums:

Pokhara Regional Museum, located in Nayabazar, reflects the ethnic mosaic of western Nepal. The lifestyles and history of ethnic groups such as the Gurung, Thakali and the Tharu are attractively displayed. Open daily, except Tuesdays and holidays, from 10 am to 4 pm. Entrance fee is Rs. 5 and there is an extra Rs. 10 for cameras (Tel: 061-520413).

Annapurna Museum, also known as the Natural History Museum, is located at Prithvi Narayan Campus east of the old bazaar named Bagar. Managed by the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), the museum has an exceptional collection of butterflies, insects, birds, and models of wildlife as well as samples of various precious and semi-precious stones and volcanic rocks. Open daily, except Saturdays and holidays, from 9 am to 4 pm. Entrance is free.

International Mountain Museum: The theme of this museum is to cover the information and exhibits related with the Man, Mountain and Mountain activities around the world. Open daily (365 days in a year) from 9 am to 4:30 pm. Entrance: Foreigner : Nrs: 300.00, SAARC Citizen Nrs: 100.00, Nepalese Nrs: 50.00, Student(Nepalese) Nrs: 25.00 (Tel: 061-460742)
another museum is Gorkha Memorial Museum: In 1815 Nepalese soldiers clashed with the British troops in the northern border of India. After a fierce battle they showed respect to those “… Brave Goorkhas…” by erecting a stone with engravings. Soon they become close friends and the Gurkha regiments were formed. To this day, Gurkha solders still serve in the British Army. Entrance fee is Nepalese Nrs. 20.00, SAARC Citizen Nrs.80.00 and Foreigner Nrs. 150.00 (Tel 061-541966).

Himalayan View:

The magnificent Annapurna panorama that's visible on the northern skyline of Pokhara is quite incredible. The main peaks are Annapurna I to IV and the beautiful Machhapuchhare (or Fishtail Mountain, so named after its twin peaks). Besides these, you can also see the Manaslu range, Dhaulagiri range and other peaks.

The mountains will probably be hidden in the clouds between April and September. A nice evening on the banks of Fewa Lake with the mountain range as the backdrop is what Pokhara is really about!

Nightlife and Entertainment There is not much of nightlife in Pokhara other than dining. The town shuts down by about 10:30 in the evening. Until you can hang out some of the bars and pubs that are becoming trendy in the area.

Around Pokhara:

Pokhara is the starting and ending point for many of the popular trekking routes in Nepal. Longer treks (one to three week long) such as the Jomsom trek, Annapurna Circuit, and Annapurna Sanctuary begin here. If Kathmandu is the cultural hub of Nepal, Pokhara is its center of adventure. An enchanting city nestled in a tranquil valley; it is the starting point for many of Nepal's most popular trekking and rafting destinations. The atmosphere on the Shore of Fewa Lake is one of excited vitality as hipster backpackers crowd the many bars and restaurants exchanging recommendations on guest houses and viewpoints, both by the lake and above the clouds.

Pokhara is a place of remarkable natural beauty. The serenity of Fewa Lake and the magnificence of the fish-tailed summit of Machhapuchhre (6,993m) rising behind it create an ambience of peace and magic. At an elevation lower than Kathmandu, it has a much more tropical feel to it, a fact well appreciated by the beautiful diversity of flowers which prosper in its environs. Indeed, the valley surrounding Pokhara is home to thick forests, gushing rivers, emerald lakes, and of course, the world famous views of the Himalaya.

Pokhara is part of a once vibrant trade route extending between India and Tibet. To this day, mule trains can be seen camped on the out-skirts of the town, bringing goods to trade from remote regions of the Himalaya. This is the land of the many ethnic groups, hardworking farmers and valorous warriors who have earned worldwide fame as Gurkha soldiers. The Thakalis, another important ethnic group here, are known for their entrepreneurship.

Getting Pokhara:

Pokhara is located roughly 200 km west of Kathmandu (Capital City of Nepal).The journey between these two famed cities is certainly part of the Pokhara experience. Flying over the snow-capped Himalaya to the north and green Mahabharat range to the south is thrilling; while the overland journey past sparse rural settlements nested along the Trisuli River provides a view of life particular to Nepal's middle hills. There are daily flight between Kathmandu and Pokhara. About Pokhara is situated at about 827 meter from sea level, and is located 124 miles (about 200 km) west of Kathmandu and can be reached by plane in 35 minutes or in 5 hours by bus. Pokhara is the next destination after Kathmandu for many adventure and pleasure trips in and around Pokhara. Pokhara is often called the enchanting Himalayan valley with a heart of major actions and adventures.

Surrounded by beautiful snow-caped mountains, with a magnificent lake of crystal-clear pure Himalayan water, all-year round pleasing weather, and friendly Pokhralis will greet you with a smile and leave you with the most unforgettable moments in your life. So pack up your bag, load your camera, and get ready for Pokhara experience!

Places to Visit the Fewa Lake 1.5 Kilometer long, second largest lake in Nepal, offers an excellent view of the mountains and their reflections on the lake. Many tours and trekking operators and hotels are located on the lakeside. One can easily find a place to sit back, relax and enjoy great meal while enjoying scenery here. You will also enjoy boating on the lake.

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