Long thought of by globe trekkers as the literal and figurative pinnacle of the great outdoors, many travelers quickly find that culturally rich Nepal is not just a country of natural attractions, but a historically affluent testament to anthropology, whilst being both encouragingly and (through poverty) disastrously subversive to modernity. Either way, Nepal is an adventure, full of all the right elements that make it an ideal destination for the adventurous traveler. Below are 5 places you simply cannot miss.
Kathmandu
If you’re flying into Nepal, you’ll land in its largest city, Katmandu. Look no further for your first destination in this attraction-dense country. For a better understanding of Nepal’s religion-rich tradition, the most impressive monument has to be Swayambhu, a massive Buddhist stupa famous to Buddhists worldwide. Monkeys can be seen strolling the temple’s interior while you observe carved statues and painted symbols.
At the heart of Kathmandu is the ancient Durbar Square, full of structures and statues that explore over 1000 years of history. Kathmandu is ideal for a short stay of a few days, exhibiting a number of Buddhist structures and museums worth seeing in such a timeframe. If you’re lucky, you will arrive when one many cultural festivals such as Tihar (Festival of Lights), New Years, Holi, or women’s festival Teej kick off.
Annapurna
One of the most popular trekking spots in the world, the Annapurna region located in western Nepal is a subrange of the Himalayas: expansive, tall, and one of the most prestigious summits in the world, and stunning in its natural perfection as a lived experience. You can explore the depths of the world’s deepest valley in Kaligandaki River Valley, or if you can afford 3 weeks, sweep through the exotic diverse villages, rampant elevations and majestic subtropics of the Annapurna circuit. Where it was once less catering to the adventurous traveler, the numerous villages you will pass in a day during this trek have all the amenities one could possibly need, making Annapurna more accessible than ever.
See amazing views along the Annapurna trek in Nepal - photo courtesy of Ben Tubby via Wikimedia Commons
Bhaktapur
Though it is the allure of its exalted elevations that brings some trekkers to Nepal, one must understand that is not only what makes Nepal an experience. The ancient town of Bhaktapur, just east of Katmandu Valley, embodies the history, culture and expression of the Nepalese that one needs for a heightened understanding of these uniquely indigenous people. Between its Pottery Square, where local potters create the animal guardians of the Siddhi Lakshmi mandir in open-air kilns, and nearby former royal residence of Palace of 55 Windows, Bhaktapur proves that it did not become a UNESCO site for nothing.
Experience the culture of Nepal in Bhaktapur - photo courtesy of Artha via Wikimedia Commons
Bandipur
This stunning 18th century hilltop settlement in Tanahu district, Bandipur, provides the perfect opportunity to soak in terrific views of the Himalayas, get a hearty taste of an aged culture, and swoop and scurry through scenic hills, peaks, Magar villages and largest caves in Nepal. The naturally attuned composition of Bandipur is romantic in its own right as a place of reclusion and thought, but also as the definition of both Nepalese distinction and ethnic diversity. Enjoy the village’s centralized library and Bindyabashini temple while descending through the village and lush gardens.
Pokhara
The beautiful terrain of Pokhara - photo courtesy of Laxman Thapa via Wikimedia Commons
After your journey through Annapurna, make sure you spend some time in Pokhara. One of the most popular hotspots in Nepal, this city is an outdoorsman’s paradise, with opportunities to boat, safari, trek, bike, glide, and raft through some of the world’s most beautiful terrain. Head down to Phewa Lake in the morning and notice how the lake perfectly reflects the lush mountainous ranges and blue skies. Then go over to Devi’s Fall for one of the greatest views – where the stream of the Pardi Khola crash down and disappear into the depths of the earth. When you’re done with that, hire a guide and go cave diving at Mahendra, or get a workout hiking the difficult grounds at Sarangkot.
No comments:
Post a Comment