The capital of Nepal, Kathmandu valley, is the biggest and the most cosmopolitan city of Nepal. Known as the 'City of Temples', it has great temples with historic, architectural and religious importance attached to them. Kathmandu is the meeting point of various ethnic groups. The unique element of the city is that it is a fabled capital of convivial pilgrims and carved rose-brick temples as well as a frenetic sprawl of modern towers and spunky casinos. Kathmandu city is the conjecture to the major routes within and outside the country. Most of the tours & trekking starts from Kathmandu. The city itself is home to the historical monuments, cultural groups, architectural wonders and exotic tourist destinations. The Kathmandu valley is a Cultural World Heritage site listed by UNESCO in 1979.
The biggest stupa in Nepal is situated 7 km east to Kathmandu. Boudhanath Stupa was probably built in the 14th century after the Mughal invasions; various interesting legends are told regarding the reasons for its construction. After the arrival of thousands of Tibetans following the 1959 Chinese invasion, the temple has become one of the most important centers of Tibetan Buddhism. It looms 36 meters high and presents one of the most fascinating specimens of stupa design. There are more than 45 Buddhist monasteries in the area. The Bouddhanath stupa is also known as Khasti Chaitya and is considered as one of the oldest stupas in the country. Today it remains an important place of pilgrimage and meditation for Tibetan Buddhists and local Nepalis, as well as a popular tourist site.
Pashupatinath Temple, with its astonishing architectural beauty, stands as a symbol of faith, religion, culture and tradition. It is not known for certain when Pashupatinath was founded. Tradition says it was constructed by Pashupreksha of the Somadeva Dynasty in the 3rd century BC, but the first historical records date from the 13th century. The original temple was destroyed several times until it was given its present form under King Bhupalendra Malla in 1697. According to a legend recorded in local texts, especially the Nepalamahatmya and the Himavatkhanda, the Hindu god Shiva once fled from the other gods in Varanasi to Mrigasthali, the forest on the opposite bank of the Bagmati River from the temple. There, in the form of a gazelle, he slept with his consort Parvati. When the gods discovered him there and tried to bring him back to Varanasi, he leapt across the river to the opposite bank, where one of his horns broke into four pieces. After this, Shiva became manifest as Pashupati (Lord of Animals) in a four-face (chaturmukha) linga.
The richly-ornamented pagoda houses the sacred linga or phallic symbol of Lord Shiva. Thousands of pilgrims from all over the world come to pay homage to this temple and also known as the temple of living beings. The main cremation site is Bhasmeshvar Ghat, which is the most-used cremation site in the Kathmandu Valley, By the bank of Bagmati River, the deceased one is put on stacks of woods and cremated. The Pashupatinath Temple is the pride of Kathmandu.
Bhaktapur means city of devotees, also known as Bhadgaon, is a museum of medieval art and architecture with many fine examples of sculpture, woodcarving and colossal pagoda temples consecrated to different gods and goddesses. As the names suggests, is a holy city with pagoda-style temples. Bhaktapur city is shaped like a conch shell-one of the emblems of the god Vishnu and was founded by King Ananda Deva in 889 A.D. Bhaktapur is the third largest city in the Kathmandu valley. It is also known by woodcarving artists. The markets in the city are very lively and colorful. Bhaktapur is in many ways the most medieval of the three major cities in the Kathmandu valley. Much of its glorious architecture dates from the end of the 17th century. The city is famous for its pagoda-style architecture. Tourists are more often attracted to the Hindu temples, pottery crafts, colorful markets and lively people of Bhaktapur.
Bhaktpaur Durbar Square
As you walk in, you will overcome and feel of inner harmony. Such is the art and architecture and the special layout here. The 15th-century Palace of 55 Windows, situated to the left as you enter through the city gate, inspires admiration. The National Art Gallery is also housed inside. The palace entrance, the Golden Gate, is a masterpiece in repose art. In front of the palace building is a medley of temples of various designs.
Palace of 55 Windows
Being built by King Yaksha Malla in 1427 A.D. and remodeled by King Bhupatindra Malla in the 17th century, the intricately carved balcony and windows are a masterpiece of wood carving.
Nyatapola Temple
This five storied Pagoda Style temple was built by King Bhupatindra Malla in 1708 A.D. It is well known for its massive structure and subtle workmanship. It is the tallest pagoda structure in Kathmandu.
Taumadhi Square
It lies to the east of Durbar Square reached by a narrow brick-paved lane. The towering five-roofed Nyatapol temple presides over the square. The monument gracefully soars into the sky atop a five-story plinth. The stairway leading up to the temple is flanked by stone figures of deities and mythical beasts, each 10 times more powerful than the one immediately below.
Dattatreya Square
It takes its name from the Dattatreya temple dedicated to a three-headed combination of the Hindu deities Brahma, Bishnu and Shiva. If you want to experience the feel of the traditional urban layout of Bhaktapur, Dattatreya Square is it. Set in a maze of streets lined with richly ornamented houses, the square is famed for its many ornate Hindu monasteries known as Math. The National Woodworking Museum is also housed here. The Brass and Bronze Museum is across the street.
Potter’s Square
A two-minute walk south of Durbar Square brings you to Bolachhen, also known as Potter’s Square because of the many potters seen here moulding wet clay into different kinds of earthen ware. It has a display of fresh pottery left out to dry in the open square. This place can be approached from Taumadhi Square also. The elephant-headed Lord Ganesh is the patron of potters, thus the Jeth Ganesh temple in the square.
Siddha Pukhu
Siddha Pukhu, a pond dating back to the Lichhavi period, is better known as Ta-Pukhu, meaning big pond. Though situated right at the bus stop, it provides a serene atmosphere with its sashaying fish and the stone images of different Hindu and Buddhist gods.
The ancient name of Patan is Lalitpur which means a city of beauty, the city of fine arts. The city is blessed with Buddhist monuments and Hindu temples with fine bronze gateways, guardian deities and wonderful carvings. Noted for its craftsmen and metal workers, it is also known as the city of artists. It is believed that the city has been built during the reign of Vira Dev in 299 A.D. The diversity of the medieval culture has left a rich legacy of impressive sightseeing in the city attracting tourists from far and wide.
The water conduits, stone spouts, Jaladroni (water tanks), artistic gateways, Hindu temples and Buddhist Vihars adorn the city. Patan Durbar Square is one of the seven monument zones of Kathmandu Valley. The seven monument zones were included in the World Heritage List by UNESCO in 1979 as one integrated site. The city was initially designed in the shape of the Buddhist Dharma-Chakra (Wheel of Righteousness) with Buddhist Stupas at each of the four points of the compass. Most of the Nepalese art of any form is devoted to Gods.
Patan Durbar Square
Situated in the heart of the city, it constitutes the focus of visitors' attraction. The Square is full of ancient palaces, temples and shrines, noted for their exquisite carvings. The Patan Durbar square consists of three main chowks or court- yards, the Central Mul Cowk, Sundaru Chowk and Keshav Narayan Chowk. The Sundari Chowk holds in its centre a masterpiece of stone architecture, the Royal bath called Tushahity.
Iba Bahi
Iba Bahi is situated about a two-minute walk south of Durbar Square. It is one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in the Kathmandu Valley and reflects the sophisticated architecture of the Malla period. A two-step platform leads to the courtyard with a hall called Dalan. There is a shrine dedicated to Shakyamuni right across the entrance.
Kwa Bahal
Kwa Bahal, also known as the Golden Temple, is a Buddhist monastery courtyard dating to the 12th century. It is a five-minute walk west and north from the northern end of Durbar Square. The monastery building is embellished with exceptionally fine wood-carvings and repousse work. Artistic images are scattered around the courtyard, and devotees can be seen offering worship at the many shrines here.
Mahabouddha
Mahabouddha can be reached by walking east from the southern end of Durbar Square and then turning right at the sunken water taps. This Buddhist monument is an excellent example of terra cotta art form which points to the skill of Patan's ancient craftsmen with a variety of building styles. The 14th-century monument's design is also unusual in a city of pagoda roofs.
Patan Museum
The Patan Museum displays the traditional sacred art of Nepal in an illustrious architectural setting. Its home is an old residential court of Patan Darbar, one of the royal palaces of the former Malla kings of the Kathmandu Valley. Its gilded door and window face one of the most beautiful squares in the world.
Khokana, 8km south of Kathmandu, is a traditional and tiny Newari village, which has its own history and has retained its tradition and culture. It is a living museum and recalls medieval times.
The farming community of Newars who live here are mostly dependent on agriculture and much of their daily activities take place outside of their dwellings. There are women sitting outside their houses spinning, spinning is an ancient textile art in which plant, animal or synthetic fibers are drawn out and twisted together to form yarn, men crushing seeds, and other daily activities. Khokana village looks in no hurry and have its own pace without any hustles and bustles. People looks relaxed and doing their daily chores on their own pace without any distractions. The village is famous for its unusual mustard-oil harvesting process in which a heavy wooden beam is used to crush the mustard seeds in order to extract the oil. It is believed that a share system was used in the past here. This oil can be consumed if desired, but it can also be used for therapeutic massage. One can have a wonderful time viewing the mountain ranges, and so on and of course the beautiful countryside and farming over it
In an annual ritual festival day people hold the goat. A female baby goat is thrown into a pond and a local men in teams from localities compete to kill it by snatching and drowning the baby goat into the pond, with the belief that whoever takes the prize will have a prosperous life.
Pokhara, as it means City of Lakes, an enchanting city nestled in the tranquil valley. The second largest tourist destinations in Nepal is considered most beautiful city of the country. Situated 200 km west of Kathmandu, the city is connected by air and road not only from Kathmandu but from other parts of the country. This mystical city is rightly called the "Center of Adventure". The serenity of Phewa Lake and the magnificence of the fish-trail summit of Machachhapuchhre (6,977m) rising behind it creates an ambience of peace and magic. With its sky touching mountains and dazzling waterfalls, the city is indeed a visitors' paradise. In close proximity to nature, this beautiful city of Nepal offers the most esthetic panoramic view of the Himalayas.
The valley surrounding Pokhara is home to thick forests, gushing rivers, clear lakes and the world famous views of the Himalayas. Pokhara offers magnificent views of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machchhapuchhre, five peaks of Annapurna and other peaks.
The Fewa (or Phewa) Lake
Phewa Lake, majestic in stretch and beauty, is the second largest lake of Nepal. Foremost attraction in the lake is the pagoda style temple which holds the shrine of Barahi or Water Goddess. Another attraction is the amazing image of Mt. Machhapuchhre and Annapurna in the clear water of the lake. One is advised to view the south-eastern side of Phewa lake for it has the best views. Tourists can also indulge in activities like fishing and canoeing. Several verities of fish can be found in the lake. Nearby forest is the residence of numerous animals and birds.
Davis Fall
One of the most famous tourist attractions in Pokhara is Davis Falls. Source of water in Davis Fall or Patale Chango (in Nepali) is Phewa Lake. The Fall looks very impressive specially during the rainy season. There is also a cave near the falls.
Mahendra Cave
A popular Pokhara tourist destination, Mahendra Cave has been named after the late King Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev. The cave has been fitted with lighting system for convenience of the tourists. Mahendra Cave is known for its rock types and stones that glitter when a beam of light hits them.
World Peace Stupa
The World Peace Stupa, a local landmark that crowns the ridge across the lake at an elevation of 1113m, provides one of the most satisfying short hikes in the Pokhara Valley. The views from the top are phenomenal. Standing more than 40m tall, the stupa (sometimes entirely erroneously called the pagoda) looks as if it has been cross-bred with a lighthouse. It seems rather grandiose for a religious shrine, but the view from here is just about the best wide-angle panorama you can get of this part of the Himalayas, and certainly the only one with Phewa Tal and Pokhara in the foreground. Over on the far left you’ll see the towering hump of Dhaulagiri and its more westerly sisters, in the middle rises the Annapurna Himal and the graceful pyramid of Machhapuchhare, and off to the right are Manaslu, Himalchuli and Baudha.
Sarangkot
Sarangkot is a small village just above Pokhara. The panoramic view of the Annapurna range from Sarangkot is one of the most easily accessible views of massive mountains (8,000m+) in the world. The sunrise is spectacular and the view of Pokhara valley and the Phewa lake adds more interesting place to be once. With its gift of elevation of 1592 meters, the lake is an even more spectacular sight, the view of the mountains is perhaps the best view of that range from any other point since it provides an unobstructed panorama, and you have a full view of Pokhara Valley and surrounding mountains. The beauty of this place is like a tranquilizer that can transform stress to peace.
Chitwan has had a long history of preservation. For many years it was the Royal hunting grounds for the Kings and dignitaries of Nepal and therefore was not hunted by the general public. It did however become a chosen spot for big game safari hunters in the late nineteenth and early to mid-twentieth century's. This was united with a surge in local human populations following the development of anti-malaria medicines in the mid-twentieth century. Wild roars of tigers, chirping of jungle birds, soothing breeze and the splashing ripples of the river Rapti... a visit to the Royal Chitwan National Park may sound dream-like but reality speaks for itself. There are more than 43 species of mammals, over 450 species of birds, and more than 45 species of amphibians and reptiles in the park.One can enjoy the Canoe trip, Bird watching, Jungle Drive, Nature Walk, Elephant Bathing, Elephant Safari, Village Tour, Crocodile Walk and Cultural Program.
Watching the wonders of Nature
Watching unique birds and animals from atop an elephant can be quite exciting. Here is a list of activities that can make your trip to the Royal Chitwan National Park more memorable.
Canoeing
Canoeing on Chitwan rivers is an excellent way of seeing waterfalls. The park's dolphins and crocodiles, however, are seldom seen. The high temperatures experienced in the park make bathing in the river an attractive pastime. Water-holes are also lure for a swim. Watching the elephants showering is very interesting.
Elephant Safari
Elephant rides is a major Chitwan attractions. Wild boar, red deer and other creatures of the jungle can be seen, in the morning and evening especially, from from atop the tall pachyderms. One more advantage is that rhinos can be approached without danger. Apart from the animals, luxuriant vegetation and jungle chorus - different sounds in different parts of the day - make the ride a memorable experience.
Lumbini is listed as a world heritage site by UNESCO, is the place where Lord Buddha – the apostle of peace, and the Light of Asia – was born in 623 B.C. In historical terms, the region is an exquisite treasure-trove of ancient ruins and antiquities, dating back to the pre-Christian era. It is situated 230 km away from Kathmandu and from Chitwan is about 160 Km and about 3 hours drive to reach to Southern Terai (lowland), at an altitude of 600 ft. above sea level.
It is fourth largest tourist destinations in Nepal. Lumbini has many new monasteries occupied by different nations. The historical city of Lumbini is blessed with rich natural setting and astonishing architectural beauty. Located in South-Western Terai of Nepal, the historic city takes one back to 623 B.C. Around 62 archaeological sites here preserve the significance to the life, enlightenment and death of Buddha.
Lumbini Garden
The garden is foremost attraction in Lumbini tourism. The fact that Lord Buddha had taken birth in Lumbini Garden makes it a plce of reverence. Number of stupas, monasteries and temples surround the garden. Some of these are ancient while are some were erected by medieval states. A colossal stone pillar built by the great Indian emperor Ashoka is also here. Account of the birth of Buddha is inscribed on it.
Mayadevi Temple
Devoted to Maya Devi, the mother of Lord Buddha, the temple attracts praise for its architectural beauty. Credit of discovering the temple, in 1895, goes to a German archaeologist. The temple is remarkable in the way Maya Devi is shown giving birth to Lord Buddha.
Pushkarni Pool
Queen Mayadevi took a dip in the pond before giving birth of prince Siddhartha. The prince also had his purification bath in the pond. Brick steps of the pond lead to the emerald-green water.
Maha Bodhi Temple
The temple is known for its 1700 years old idol. The idol sits facing the place where Lord Buddha achieved enlightenment.
Kapilvastu Excursion
Kapilvastu, birthplace of Gautam Buddha, is a famous historic town which is always brimming with charm. Lord Buddha was born here in the sixth century. Kapilvastu attracts Buddhist pilgrims from all over the world. Kapilvastu is 27km from Lumbini.
Everest Experience is a close-encounter mountain flight-seeing tour. After all a trip to Nepal would be incomplete without truly understanding what really makes it beautiful. A flight that takes you deep into the Himalayas, flying into valleys close to the rock face, as close as five nautical miles from the Everest itself. Now you can see the stunning beauty of nature; raw, undiluted and truly majestic.
As the plane takes off, you will start seeing from Shisha Pangma (8013m), Dorje Lakpa (6966m) of Langtang ranges. As the plane glides along, the mountains come closer and closer you will see the holy mountain Gauri Shankar. Lord Shankar [Shiva] and his consort Gauri are said to protect this mountain, at the proud height of 7134m. As the plane moves toward the land of the rising sun, the eastern Himalaya, a succession of glorious mountains follow Melungtse, stretches up to 7023m. Chugimago (6297m) a virgin mountain yet to summit. At 6956m. Numbur Mountain resembles a breast, the maternal source in the sky providing pure milk to the Sherpas of the Solukhumbu.
Next is Kayrolung, an intensely white mountain at 6511m. gleams with the rising sun. Cho-Oyu is the sixth highest mountain in the world standing at 8201m. It appears stunningly beautiful from the Aircraft. Next is Gyachungkang, at the majestic height of 7952m. which is considered an extremely difficult climb. To the Right of Gyachungkang is Pomori 7161m. As you get closer to Everest there is Nuptse 7855m. signifying its direction From Everest. Finally there is Mt. Everest 8848mt itself, known as Sagarmatha by the Nepalese. Facing in such a close range to Everest is lifetime rewarding moment, it remains an enigma, this majestic spot on Earth. You also get to have a close look at Kanchenjunga (8586 meters), Lhotse (8516 meters) and Makalu (8481 meters), the 8 thousanders peaks, to name just a few.
Nothing compares to the sheer beauty or awe, the Himalayas has to offer. Take the mother of all mountain flights, the Everest Experience where we put you, so close that you can almost touch it. It gives you eye level views of the snow peaks and then brings you in one hour. Cruising close to the awesome massifs of rock and ice, the flight presents a mind -boggling sight.
Many years ago, we met through one common friend,since that moment we start to work together. We became friends and after that more than this, we became brothers. But, the most important thing in our relationship is that our guests beacmae a big family within us.Thanks to you Robin, and to all the Amitayus Trekking family, for your awesome job, dedication ,spirit and professionalism. Ever with you smile in your faces!!
International Mountain Guide (UIAGM)
Technical Director ALPINCE SCHOOL BENASQUE, Himalayan Heli Ski guide
Spain
Dear Robin, You organized over 50 trekking for us, with unrelenting attention and quality. You are as reliable as a Rolex and a good friend.
Founder/Director
Mountain Child Care
The Netherlands
Thinking about Robin and his team: a warm and caring family, delivering you the best in class experience in the Nepalese Himalaya.Always standing by and fully committed to give you a maximum feeling of environment and amazement.His feeling of happiness depends on your feeling of gratitude. Very trustworthy.
UIMLA International Mountain Leader and Founder
360 degree Explore
The Netherlands
Amitayus Trekking gives you the guarantee of professional guided trekking all over Nepal. I have a lot of experience myself with the groups as a tour leader and during numerous private trekking.I always felt at ease with the Nepali staff. I was taken care of and we enjoyed walking together. So go for it.
Tour Leader/ Trek Organizer
Holland
When you travel in Nepal together with Amitayus you can be sure that your trekking will be more than just a trekking.Robin knows by heart what hospitality means. He has the ability to make you feel welcome and he translates your wishes in a unforgettable travel experience. Once on the way; the trekking staff will give you a real Nepal experience since they have lots of experience,knowledge are committed, reliable and warm hearted.
Founder
Mountain Child Care
The Netherlands
Since 2007 we are organizing group travels to Nepal, always together with Amitayus Trekking and our good friend Robin Chamlin. Over the years our work-relation developed into a friendship due to Robin's professionalism, costumer focus, friendliness and openness. On our various trips in Nepal we got to know him as a reliable, trustworthy and qualified partner. We never faced problems which weren't solved quickly and competent. Not just himself, but also his staff show a high grade of professionalism and costumer focus. We have great trust in Robin and his whole team and we are looking forward to many years of successful collaboration and never ending friendship.
Trek / Tour organizer
Germany
