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The Shivapuri National Park lies close to Kathmandu: in forested hills north of the city. The trekking region is richly forested (trees changing with altitude and aspect); is home to over 300 species of birds and a wide range of animals; and in addition has numerous friendly farming communities. From high points there are good views of the High Himalaya to the north.
Trails through the park are not difficult and the altitude remains below 2 500m/8 200ft: removing any danger of AMS. This trek is ideal for families with children over six, and others who are used to walking and may have limited time; but want a first taste of ‘Nepalese Adventure’ and sight of our border giants. In addition, you will have ample opportunity to meet the region’s inhabitants and gain an insight into their cultures, beliefs and craftsmanship.
The first day’s trail passes through the park from south to north with Chisopani on the northern border having views of the Langtang range towards the border. The trek to Nagarkot follows a south-easterly trail that leaves the park at Manichur and undulates through terraced villages up to the town. From here, there are broader views of the northern peaks, including the Ganesh Himal to the northwest. There are also views over the Kathmandu Valley (once a natural lake).
A three hour walk through Tamang (Buddhist) and Newari (Hindu) community’s ends at Changunarayan: an ancient town with a temple dedicated to the reincarnation of Vishnu. From here, we drive to the Valley’s third Durbar Square at Bhaktapur. Despite earthquake damage its traffic-free square has much to offer; in particular the fine Newari carvings on many of the buildings. Finally, return to your hotel in the city.
After completing passport, immigration and visa requirements, we will meet you outside the terminal building (look for your name board) and transfer you to your hotel: afternoon free. Evening: a welcome dinner, introduction to your guide and a briefing on the trek with a check on necessities. Overnight at hotel.
Sadly, many of our architectural treasures were damaged in the recent earthquakes: but these sites still have much to offer.
Take a day tour to five of the Kathmandu Valley’s cultural world heritage sites: Swayambhunath, the famed “monkey temple;” the city’s historical Durbar Square with ancient temples, unique art, architecture, and the chance to see the Kumari (living goddess); Patan’s Durbar Square; the Hindu temple Pashupatinath and Bouddhanath, the world’s largest stupa.
A car and driver will take you to each site-entrance and wait for you. (Entry tickets and lunch are not included.)
From your hotel, drive 15km northeast to Sundarijal: entrance to the Shivapuri National Park; and Kathmandu’s water catchment region. There are numerous historical and religious sites within the park. At first the trail follows a pipeline to a military check point then gradually climbs to the Tamang village of Mulkharka (1 800m, and Sundari Mai Temple). Continue through oak, rhododendron and pine forests to Borlang Bhanjyang (2 460m, ridge). Then descend gently to Chisopani on the park’s northern border: with distant mountain views. Overnight in Chisopani.
Today’s trail turns southeast and zigzags to villages through farmland and a mix of lush subtropical and temperate forest, to Manichur at the edge of the park. Over 300 species of birds, and numerous animals including jackals, deer, wild boar, black bears, Langur monkeys, squirrels, pika; and leopard have been recorded recently. Next is the village of Jhule; and on to the Chaukibhanjyang followed by an easy, almost level trail to Kattikebhanjyang before a final pull up to prosperous Nagarkot.
From here, there are southern views over the whole Kathmandu Valley (once a lake). To the north are panoramic views overlooking the lovely Helambu District to the High Himalaya that includes a sweep of majestic peaks from Manaslu in the northwest across the Ganesh Himal, the Langtang Himal and on to the Everest Group in the northeast.
The trail now turns west, through typical Tamang (Buddhist) and Newar (Hindu) villages north of the Bageshwori Forest Reserve and up into the Tilkot Reserve. It then climbs for an hour before levelling off for the final walk to Changunarayan. This is an ancient village with an interesting history and a temple dedicated to the reincarnation of Vishnu.
After exploring the town, we will take you to the third of the Kathmandu Valley’s medieval towns with a Durbar Square: Bhaktapur. Spend an hour or more exploring its glorious ancient temples and pagodas (notwithstanding recent damage) – in a traffic free environment. Then we return to your hotel in Kathmandu. Rest of day free.
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight to your next destination.
Anytime you book something on the internet from another country you are very worried that you may show up and were scammed, especially when you compare prices from a US based company for the same tour and the local company is so much less. Well this company is legit. From the time I landed to the time I took off Prem was there the entire time. He was always looking out for my well being at all times. He was always checking with me to see if he could do anything else. The trip was very well planned and he knows all the owners at the place we stay. The other thing that really surprised me was that the tour was just for the 3 of us. There were plenty of other travelers to talk to each night but during the day we could do our own thing. We happen to be very fast hikers so we were able to go our speed. I plan on going back soon and doing another trek with Prem and plan on bringing some more friends. For the money this is the best value I have found in all my travels for such an awesome adventure. Feel free to contact me if you want a first hand rating glennz@mowermeter.com
glennz882
25th Apr, 2022
