Ecological Treks
Himalayan Adventure & Holiday Tour Operator
Surrounded by green mountain walls with snow capped peaks, the valley is of unequaled splendor. It consists of three main cities of great historic and cultural interest: Kathmandu, Patan (Lalitpur), and Bhaktapur (Bhadgaon). The valley floor is 1310 m. above sea level. On your day tour, you will be amazed by the number of temples and stupas, carved wooden struts, golden torahs, and images of various gods that remain from past dynasties. For relaxing views of the sunrise and sunset, Nagarkot and Dhulikhel hill resorts are just a few hours drive away. Visits to religious sites give an insight into the great religions of the subcontinent. Festival days relive centuries-old customs. There are many easy day hikes in pleasant bird and animal filled areas.
Kathmandu’s most impressive sight, Durbar Square, is crowded with ancient temples and palaces reflecting the religious and cultural life of the people. It is also home to Kathmandu's Kumari, or 'living goddess', a young girl believed to be a reincarnation of the goddess Durga
Swayambhunath is one of the world's most glorious Buddhist Chaityas. The 2000 year old Chaityas is known as the 'monkey temple' because of its resident swarm of Rhesus Monkeys. This spectacular Buddhist Stupa, from which the Buddha's eyes gaze serenely down, lies on a hilltop only 2km from central Kathmandu. The views of Kathmandu and the surrounding valley are superb.
Boudhanath, the stupa of Boudhanath lies eight kilometres east of Kathmandu. This colossal and ancient stupa, one of the biggest in the world, has the all seeing eyes of Lord Buddha. It was built in the fifth century A.D. on an octagonal base inset with prayer wheels.
Pashupatinath Temple situated five kilometres east of Kathmandu on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, the temple of Lord Shiva is famous for its two-tiered golden roof and silver doors. The area along the banks of the river next to the temple is a designated cremation site.
Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square is One of seven World Heritage Sites in the Valley, Durbar Square and the old palace of Hanuman Dhoka were once the centre of daily life in old Kathmandu. Durbar Square is dominated by the ancient 3-tiered Talaju Temple and almost 50 other temples and palaces built over a range of six centuries and several royal dynasties, a living testament to Nepal's interesting and diverse history. Be sure to visit the Kumari's Palace (the Living Goddess) and spend an afternoon in Hanuaman Dhoka, now a fascinating museum.
This ancient city of faces Kathmandu on the southern bank of the River Bagmati. It is a colorful place, with Hindu temples and Buddhist monuments side by side in its narrow, winding streets and unexpected squares.
Patan Durbar Square:The City of Patan (Lalitpur) was at one time a City State with its own King, one of three Kingdoms in the Valley. Kathmandu and Bhaktapur were also independent kingdoms. Each state had their own Durbar (or Palace) Square, a spiritual focal point of life that developed around the King’s palace. Patan’s Durbar Square is noted for its architectural uniqueness. It is another of the Valley’s World Heritage Sites. The square is full of ancient palaces, temples and shrines noted for their exquisite carvings.
Situated at an altitude of 1401metres, this is one of the three ancient city states of Nepal. Bhaktapur covers an area of 4 square miles, and boasts medieval art and architecture as well as thriving local pottery and weaving industries.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square: This spacious, beautiful square is packed with ancient temples and monuments. These include the colorfully named 'Golden Gate' and 'The Bell of the Barking Dogs.' It's a great place to explore and absorb local life.
The Palace of 55 Windows was built in the 17th century by the King Bhupatindra Malla. Amid the brick walls, with their gracious sculptural design, is a balcony of 55 windows. This balcony is a masterpiece of wood carving.
Nyatapola Temple built in 1702, this five-story pagoda is an impressive sight. Staring down at you from the terraces are intricately carved figures of wrestlers, elephants, lions and griffins.
Kirtipur is situated 10 kms. southwest of Kathmandu. The ancient Newar township is a natural fortress and has a proud and courageous history. The Chilmahu Stupa and the temple of Bagh Bhairab are major sights here. Kirtipur offers quaint streets lined with artistic houses and temple squares. The people are known for their skill in building and weaving.
Nagarkot is a small village, 32km. east of Kathmandu. From here one can see Mount Everest and other Himalayan peaks. Nagarkot is located between the Kathmandu valley in the west and Indrawati in the east. The top of Nagatkot commands exceptional views in all directions. Nagarkot is 2229 m. above sea level.
Lumbini, (the birthplace of Lord Buddha) is situated in the south-western plains of the country. Lumbini gardens, dotted with holy shrines, stupas, monasteries and the temple of Maya Devi, the mother of Lord Buddha, are the principal attractions. A great pillar from 250 B.C. carries an inscription signifying the birth of Lord Buddha. Beside the Maya Devi temple to the south is a sacred pole where Lord Buddha received his first purification bath. Close to Lumbini is Tilaurakot, an archaeological site over 2000 years old.
This mountainous little valley, unrivalled in natural beauty, is some 200 km. from Kathmandu. With the backdrop of Annapurna Himalayas to the north, and graced with glittering lakes, foaming rivers and majestic caverns, Pokhara is a place not to be missed . It is a rendezvous for many adventure trekkers in the Annapurna region who seek to experience the diverse lifestyles of the mountain people.
Gorkha
This was the home of Gorkha kings-the kings of the present dynasty that expanded itself into modern Nepal. The Shah dynasty of Nepal descends from the Gorkha. Located some 160 km. west of Kathmandu, Gorkha is a picturesque hill resort steeped in ancient history. The world renowned Gurkha soldiers were originally from this area. Points of interest include ornate ancient temples and the Royal Palace.
Bandipur
This historic hill village was once an important trade centre on the ancient salt route between Tibet and India. From its ridge top location, you can see six ranges of the magnificent Himalaya. Bandipur offers comfortable Hotels and a Home Stay Program, history tours and day walks. It is located approximately half way between Kathmandu and Pokhara, just 7 Km off the main highway.
Depending on your available time, we will make itineraries longer or shorter by adding more or less days in trekking, sightseeing, touring, joining with white water rafting or by planning more days in the park
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