Namaste! Greets the cabin crew as the flight lands at Tribhuvan International Airport. My first impression of Nepal, the Himalayan nation, was shaped by memories of the hardworking and fierce Gurkhas from my childhood. Little did I realise how deeply these people toiled in their mountainous land, working hard to make a living. Nepal is best known for Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world. Sandwiched between South Asian giants India and China, this landlocked country offers much to explore.
While Kathmandu, the capital, is famed for its iconic landmarks and popular tourist attractions, hidden gems off the beaten path provide a more authentic and intimate experience for travellers. Visiting during the low season from June to September is ideal for avoiding crowds and saving on costs for flights, accommodation, food and attractions.
If a trip to Pokhara, a gateway to the Annapurna Circuit, is thwarted by heavy snow and hazy weather, don’t be disheartened. Kathmandu offers numerous attractions to keep you engaged. My visit began at Hanumandhoka Durbar Square, a Unesco World Heritage Site. Known as Basantapur Durbar and Hanuman Dhoka, this square houses over 50 temples and numerous historical monuments. It is a bustling centre of cultural and historical significance in the Kathmandu Valley.
One highlight was the public viewing of the Living Goddess Kumari at the 17th-century Kumari Temple, an example of highly developed Nepali craftsmanship. At around 11 am, tourists gather in pin-drop silence to receive blessings from the goddess, with photography strictly prohibited.
Next, we visited Boudhanath Stupa, also known as the ‘Big White Stupa’, where one can spend a few hours people-watching, enjoying a rooftop lunch, or browsing through the hundreds of little shops in the down town area that surround the stupa.
Lunch at Nani’s Kitchen, a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Stupa, is a beloved culinary spot known for its delicious and authentic Nepali cuisine. From hearty momos to flavourful dal bhat, Nani’s Kitchen provides a taste of Nepal’s rich culinary heritage. The use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients ensures that every meal is not only tasty, but also supports the community.
The Durbar Square area also includes the Taleju Bhawani Temple, the temple of the titular deity, and several museums dedicated to the Shah Kings. A visit to a Buddhist Thangka Centre revealed the meticulous work of artists painting the life story of Buddha, such as the wheel of life, mandalas and the Shakyamuni Buddha.
After a long day, our final stop was the Pashupatinath Temple, a sprawling Hindu temple complex dedicated to Pashupati, a form of Shiva, near the Bagmati River. Classified as a World Heritage Site in 1979, it includes numerous temples, ashrams, images and inscriptions.
For a taste of adventure, Nepal is famous for its first bungee jumping site on the Bhote Kosi River and the third-highest natural bungee jump in the world. A three-hour drive from Kathmandu, one can take the plunge of about 160m into the river and get pulled up just when you’re ready for the river’s kiss.
Our guide also helped us to pass through Thamel, a bustling neighbourhood and a must-visit destination in Kathmandu, renowned as the city’s primary tourist hub. A haven for shoppers, the must-visit destination offers everything from traditional Nepali handicrafts and clothing to trekking gear and souvenirs and culinary delights.
Another adrenaline-pumping activity is the Dhulikhel Zipline, Nepal’s first superman zipline, offering a 1.1-km ride, where participants are positioned face-down, flying headfirst like Superman. This unique position offers an exhilarating experience as you soar over the landscape below. As you zip through the air, you are treated to stunning views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and, on clear days, the majestic Himalayan peaks. The lush green landscapes and traditional villages below create a panoramic backdrop.
Another location is Sukute Beach Adventure Resort, 70 km from Kathmandu, situated between the Araniko Highway and the Bhotekoshi River gorge, offering panoramic views of hills and lush greenery. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers seeking picturesque landscapes. The resort offers rafting, swimming pools and A-Frame Tents for accommodation which provides a unique and immersive experience in nature. The best time to visit Sukute Beach Adventure Resort is from October to December and March to May, when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities are enjoyable. Nearby villages and towns provide opportunities to experience local Nepali culture, cuisine and traditions, adding a cultural dimension to your stay.
Pictures by Nepal Tourism and Nepal Embassy in Oman
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
