While the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu may not be everyone’s cup of tea, Nepal is so much more. I tend to feel that some believe if you are not a trekker then Nepal doesn’t offer much else and this could not be farther from the truth. Yes it is the gateway to Mt Everest trekking but it is also a stunning destination for wildlife in the Chitwan National Park.
Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal and as such is where the hive of activity is centred. The local roads are to say the least a nightmare under a constant state of repair. Over time more and more have been able to afford cars and motor bikes with road upgrades not having kept up with the growth. Interestingly drivers seem to take it in their stride with an usual acceptance and management of negotiating their way through. Road rules are a little bit hazy in implementation. It all adds to the intrigue and experience of course.
I have always associated Nepal with monkeys and a visit to Swayambhu Temple is both funny and dangerous- especially during birthing season from June to July. While the mothers sit calmly with babies swinging off their tales, it is the males that show the aggression. I will leave it at that! It certainly is a great time to visit with the babes entertaining the visitors.
Bhaktapur is the oldest temple region and one of the most fascinating. All but destroyed in the last earthquake in April 2015, the main monuments are the Nyatapola Temple, the statue of King Bhupatindra Malla and the 55 windowed Palace of Durbar Square. Once free to enter it is now US $15. The re-build is nearing completion as I write.
Driving out of Kathmandu we head to the beautiful Lake Phewa in the city of Pokhara. Many resorts and activities are available here and the prices are remarkably cheap. Considering the array of restaurants all providing sumptuous food, I find that it is only the souvenirs that are inflated in comparison to Kathmandu. Don’t be surprised if you find a cow or two assisting you with street side shopping, they love to browse at the merchandise on the footpaths. If one needs a rest it makes great sense to plop down outside on the footpath. Only in Nepal. In the mountains overlooking the lake is the Peace Pagoda, a fitting place for a special monument. Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave is worth exploring- said to be the longest cave in Nepal. Nearby are the Davis Falls named after a British woman who fell to her death there.
Hinduism is strong throughout Nepal and there are any temples displaying edifices of Shiva Vishnu and Brahma. Many continue the journey to find the birth place of Buddha in Lumbini. Queen Mahadevi is said to have given birth to Siddhartha Gautama in 563 BCE who attained enlightenment to become Lord Buddha.
You can visit on a private tour or organise a group and I can plan a journey for you in comfort. Happy Travelling Deanne Scanlan Travel 0411682577
Photo’s Supplied
Pokhara world peace, Pagoda
Bhaktapur Kathmandu
Kathmandu Milk Carrier
Temples of Bhaktapur
