Namobuddha – Balthali Culture and Hiking Tour

We drive about 1.25 hrs through the beautiful countryside to Dhulikhel, an ancient ethnic town and then to Namobuddha Monastery. On arrival, we are greeted with panoramic views of the Himalayas. We explore the area with a pleasant and enriching walk around the grounds. You can meditate, attend afternoon Puja (ritual) ceremony, talk to Ani (Woman Monk) about their ways of life and Buddhism.

Namo Buddha Monastery is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Nepal, with its famous Stupas and the Tiger’s Den. It is believed the ancient Buddha was born here as a prince and he selflessly sacrificed to feed a starving tiger with his own flesh. Located at the top of a hill, it overlooks important towns like Dhulikhel, Banepa and we also get a chance to see amazing views of the Himalayan range including Gaurishankar Himal on a clear day. Thrangu Tashi Yangtze Monastery is also an important site at Namo Buddha.

We then begin our beautiful hike to Balthali Village along the surrounding high green hills rich in verdant fresh greenery evoking feelings of tranquility and calmness. It is the closest off beaten trail from Kathmandu which gives you the opportunity to observe the rich Nepalese cultural traditions, intermingle with the locals and great bird-watching experience. We check in to Balthali Village Resort for overnight stay. (www.balthali.com)

Balthali Village provides an uninterrupted breathtaking view of snow-capped Himalayan Mountains. It is like a living museum where you can observe local people living and farming in their age-old traditions, along with animal husbandry as their major livelihood. The village is a perfect place for bird-watchers; nature lovers and famous for Village tourism, Agro-tourism and Home-stays. You can get locally grown organic vegetables and fruits. This is the perfect place for weekend refreshment hiking and family trip with kids.

Watch early morning sunrise and have breakfast. We visit nearby villages and walk on paddy fields, through typical villages, rice terraces and meet local families. Then, we hike 1.5 hours to Khopasi and visit Roshi Khola Cave along the way and drive to Panauti for sightseeing. After sightseeing, drive back to Kathmandu (1hr).

Panauti is a thriving village with some very interesting old houses, fascinating historical stories and lovely temples, some of which have particularly fine 14th century carvings. We visit 800 year old Hindu Shrine of 'Indreshwor temple' and its wood carving shapes. Along the river bank, we can see the Sun God ‘Surya’, Moon God ‘Chandra’ and statues of Lord Bisnu (preserver of the universe according to Hindu mythology).

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