Manakamana Temple, The Wish Fulfilling Goddess

The Manakamana Temple is situated in Gorkha district of Nepal. It is a sacred place of Hindu Goddess Bhagwati, an incarnation of Parvati. The name Manakamana originates from two words, “mana” which means heart and “kamana” which means wish. It is believed that if anyone makes a wish by their heart here then their wish will be fulfilled.

The temple is approximately 140km from Kathmandu. It is 12km south from Gorkha town and 1302m above the sea level. The Manaslu - Himachali and Annapurna ranges can be viewed to the north of the temple. There are river valleys of Trisuli in the south and Marsyangdi in the west. Manakamana as explained by ancient history on 17th century is a reincarnation of the then queen of Gorkha. The queen possessed divine powers-a fact known only to Lakhan Thapa, her devotee. One day, when the king discovered that the queen was a Goddess, he suddenly died. It is said that a farmer found a stone while digging his field from which milk and blood is said to have poured into the ground. The flow ceased when Lakhan Thapa worshipped the stone with tantric rituals. The site became the foundation of the present-day shrine. According to the tradition, the priest at the temple must be a descendent of Lakhan Thapa. Renovated many times, the Manakamana Temple has a four-tiered pagoda style roof with the entrance facing southwest. The priest performs daily prayers and rituals behind closed doors before allowing the public to enter. Manakamana Devi is widely believed to bless her devotees by fulfilling their wishes. There are two alternatives for reaching the Manakamana Temple i.e. by cable car or by foot. The cable car rides over the distance of 2.8 kilometers for about 10 minutes. The cable car operates during the daytime from 9am to 5pm. Installed by an Austrian company, the Manakamana Cable Car has been operating since November 1998. There are 34 cable cars, among them 31 are for the passengers and 3 for the cargo. Each cable car has the capacity to carry 6 persons at a time. The system has a capacity of handling 600 persons per hour. The cable car technology has benefitted people a lot. Every year large number of visitors visit the temple. There are many reasons for visiting this temple, many married couples come here to worship for their long life together, students for their success in their studies, businessman for their success in their business and so on. It has become the best spot for trek lovers. Many people also come here to experience the cable car ride. The view seen from the cable car is breathtaking. It has become one of the famous tourist destinations of Nepal. Though it is easily reached by cable cars, hiking route to Manakamana Temple is beautiful and charming. It is about 4hours hike. Orange field, forests, local villages and view of Trisuli river makes hiking route fun and interesting. We can also enjoy spectacular views of green hills and valleys, terraced fields as well as the Manaslu - Himachali and the Annapurna ranges around the temple area. Visit to Manakamana Temple gives us an opportunity to know more about religious importance of Nepal. We can find many national and international tourists here. Surrounding the temple there are many local types of restaurants that provide typical Nepali meals. There are restaurants at the base of cable car that provide western foods as well. There are plenty of typical gifts shops around. Definitely visiting Manakamana Temple is a worthy experience.

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Trekking To The Base of Mount Everest

As one of the most popular treks in Nepal, the 16 day Everest base camp trek is often on the top 10 list of travel magazines. This journey gives you a chance to savor many marvelous Himalayas and provides the time to unwind & reflect, and investigate the flora and fauna around you…

Day 1: Lukla to Phakding (3 Hrs) The 16 days long journey begins with a short, adventurous flight to Lukla and again with a 3-hour flight to Phakding. The trekkers embark on with a 40-minute hike to Phakding, which is partly downhill, to the village of Cheplung. Phakding (2610m) is well accommodated with restaurants, lounge, and bars. A few of the famous lounges in Phakding are Buddha lodge, reggae bar, etc. There are also short excursions that help acclimatize. Day 2: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (5 ½ Hrs) The day starts with a 5,1/2 hour trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar, the trail goes along the Dudh Kosi valley towards the north and rewards you with a great view of Thamserku. After the checkpoint at Chumoa is reached, you will need to follow a trail through rhododendron and magnolia forest, which will lead you to Monjo. After Monjo, you enter the Sagarmatha National Park where park fees need to be paid and from where you need to reach Jorsale. Jorsale is a steep climb through a pine forest to reach Namche Bazaar, Namche bazaar feels like a small town with cyber cafes and everything from batteries to trekking gear available. Day 3: Namche Extremely necessary to halt an extra day at Namche for acclimatization. Day 4: To Tengboche (4 Hrs) Start the day with a 4 hour trek to Tengboche. The route via Syangboche and Khumjung is suggested and a visit to the famous Tengboche Monastery is worthwhile with great views of Ama Dablam from Tenboche (3870m). Day 5: Tengboche Another day to be spent acclimatizing in and around Tengboche. Day 6: To Pheriche (3 ½ Hrs) Set off to a 3 ½ hr trek to Pheriche, where you will walk past Debuche and reach Pangboche amidst arid landscape. Cross the Khumbu Khola to reach Pheriche (4240 m) in the wide valley of this river where the health center of the Himalayan Rescue Association is there to help trekkers and climbers. Day 7: Pheriche One more day in Pheriche for acclimatization with side trips to Chhukung or Island Peak Base camp. Day 8: Pheriche to Dughla (4620m) From Pheriche as you walk along the valley floors , you’ll reach Dugha(4620m) in just 2hrs. Only early birds to reach get beds since accommodation is limited. Day 9: To Lobuche (2 ½ Hrs) the trail climbs up the moraine of the Khumbu glacier. As the large Pumaori peak looms, you come across memorials for famous mountaineers. A halt here is a must because of altitude as Lobuche is 4930m. Day 10: Lobuche to Gorak Shep (2 ½ Hrs) It will take 2 ½ hr to reach Gorak shep from Lobuche. The climb is difficult as one strongly feels the effects of high altitude and one may experience altitude sickness. After traversing a moraine Gorak Shep (5160m) is reached at the foot of Kala Pathar. Day 11: To Base Camp (6 Hrs return) It’s a tough hike to Everest Base Camp (5340m) over the Khumbu Glacier which is a moving surface and ever changing path. During climbing season the base camp is full of colorful tents but otherwise, there is nothing to see here and even Everest is not visible. For a fascinating, panoramic view of Everest and other prominent peaks, go to Kala Pathar (5545m) as a side trip. Day 12: Back to Lobuche (2 Hrs) Head back from Gorak Shep the same way you climbed up but going downhill is a breeze and you can easily reach Lobuche in 2 hours, so start early after lunch. Day 13: Lobuche to Pheriche/Dingboche (3 Hrs) You might want a change of scene and stay at Dingboche. Day 14: To Tengboche (2 ½ Hrs) Descend along the Imja Valley and drop down to the Imja Khola to reach Tengboche. Day 15: Phunki Thenga Climb down to Phunki Thenga and climb a ridge to reach Namche Bazaar. Day 16: Namche to Lukla (6 Hrs) At the end of your trek, it’s a hard descend to Dudh Kosi. Be at Lukla by 3pm to confirm your flight back to Kathmandu.

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Annapurna Sanctuary Trek (10 Days) Reccommended: Ocober to November OR March to April

Day 1: Phedi to Tolka (5-6 Hrs) Drive from Pokhara to Phedi. The trek begins with a straight climb up from Phedi along stone steps. Great views of mountains from Dhampus on a ridge. Exceptional view of Machhapuchhare (Fishtail Mountain) from Pothana. Overnight at Tolka (1790m). Day 2: To Chhomrung (5-6 Hrs) Landruk, a Gurung village is on the way. Further up is Ghandruk and Chhomrung (2210m) with several lodges to choose from. Day 3: To Bamboo (3-4 Hrs) The trial descends, crosses a river and goes through bamboo, rhododendron and oak forests before reaching Sinuwa. Climb for an hour, then another steep descent and a place called Bamboo (2310m) is reached through another rhododendron and bamboo forest. Day 4: Bamboo to Himalayan Hotel (2-3 Hrs) Plenty of climbing this day and Doban is reached in 45 minutes. Further climbing leads to Himalayan Hotel (2840m). If time permits, going further on to Deurali makes the next day’s hike easier. Day 5: Himalayan Hotel to Machhapuchhare Base Camp (3-4 Hrs) 40 minutes away is the Hinku Cave and further on is Deurali. Being an avalanche prone area, find out about recent avalanches from the lodge owners. A stone staircase and a short climb leads to the four hotels that represent MBC, Machhapuchhare Base Camp (3700m). Astounding views of the Annapurna range. A night spent here is good for acclimatization. Day 6: MBC to Annapurna Base Camp (1 ½ - 2 Hrs) Snow can make it difficult to see the trail but the hike is pleasant. There are four well run lodges here. The south face of Annapurna towers above the base camp. The Sanctuary is close to many trekking peaks. Day 7: Annapurna Base Camp to Himalayan Hotel (3 ½ - 4 ½ Hrs) Hiking down is easy and one can go further on to Doban or Bamboo. Day 8: Himalayan Hotel to Chhomrong (5-7 Hrs) Hike back the same way you came, but the going is slow. Day 9: Chhomrong to Ghandruk (3 -4 ½ Hrs) On the way, the destination can be seen straight across, but first there’s a 470m drop to the valley floor. A steep climb leads to Kumrong Danda after which comes the descent to Ghandruk (1990m). Day 10: Ghandruk to Birethanti, Naya Pul (3 - 4 ½ Hrs) Start downhill on a stone staircase followed by a stone paved trail high above the river and you will arrive at Kimche. Walk on to Birethanti for a night halt or push on to Naya Pul and catch a bus or taxi to Pokhara.

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Annapurna Circuit Trek (12 to 18 Days) Recommended: October to November OR March to April

One of The Best Teahouse Treks That Also Takes You Over a High Mountain Pass. Day 1: Besi Sahar to Bhulbule (2 ½ Hrs) After a bus ride to Besi Sahar, the trek begins. Take the dirt road to Bhulbule or cross over to the other side of the Marshyandi river. The first village reached is Khudi after which comes Bhulbule (840m). At Bhulbule you enter the Annapurna Conservation Area but the check point is at Dharapani. Mountain views dominate. Day 2: To Ghermu (5-6 Hrs) Follow the trail on the east bank of the river enjoying views of mountains. Past the bamboo groves and a steep climb lies Bahunedanda (1270m). There are panoramic views after climbing further up. A steep descent is followed by a climb to a ridge leading to the village of Kanigaon. Soon after, Ghermu (1140m) is reached. Day 3: Ghermu to Tal (5-6 Hrs) The trail drops and leads to a suspension bridge over the Marshyangdi at Syange. Next, you walk through a steep canyon. After another descent, Jagat is reached. From here the trail descends further down to Ghatta Khola. There are many lodges along the way. Walking past a bamboo grove and rhododendron trees you enter Manang District and finally reach Tal (1700m) below a large waterfall. Day 4: To Chame (6 ½ - 7 ½ Hrs) The trek to Chame (2710m) is long but you can overnight at one of the places along the way such as Timang, Koto or Karte. You’ll be passing through many suspension bridges. After going through Dharapani and Bagarchap, you arrive at Chame where there are plenty of lodges and a bank where you can change money. There’s a hot spring nearby and views of Lamjung and Annapurna mountains. Day 5: Chame to Upper Pisang (4-5 Hrs) Views of Manaslu and apple orchards before arriving at Bhratang following a 1 ½ hr walk. An unforgettable sight awaits - a rock face that rises 1500m from the river called Paungda Danda. First Lower Pisang (3240 m) is reached. The lodges at higher levels at upper Pisang have better views of the mountains. Day 6: Upper Pisang to Manang via Ngawal (6-7 Hrs) The longer, higher route is better than the shorter route. The trail rises above the Mring Tso (lake) and finally descends to Ngawal. You then come across the picturesque village of Bragha (3470m) where you’ll find a most interesting Bragha Monastery. Just a short climb later you arrive at Manang (3540m). Annapurna and Gangapurna mountains loom large as they are only 8 km away. Day 7: Acclimatization in Manang You can visit Milarepa’s cave nearby as you need an extra day in Manang or Bragha for acclimatization. Manang to Khangsar (1 ½ to 2 hr): The trail descends and then climbs again after crossing the Jarsang Khola. After the pine forest and wheat fields you arrive at Khangsar (3745m). Tilocho Lake is a good side excursion although a tough one. Day 8: Manang to Letdar (3 ½ - 4 ½ Hrs) You leave the Marshyangdi valley behind as you climb up. The vegetation changes to shrub and Letdar (4230m) provides the last accommodations before Thorung la (the pass). Day 9: To Thorung Phedi (2 Hrs) Walk along the banks of the Jarsang khola, cross over and climb up to Thorung Phedi (4540m). Day 10: Thorung Phedi to Muktinath & Ranipauwa (6–8 Hrs) Get advice from locals about weather conditions, snow conditions and avalanche before heading off to Thurung la (5416m). The climb is steep and the weather can change or too much snow can block the path. In such conditions one must return to Phedi. The climb to the pass can take anywhere from 3 to 5 hr. Amazing views of Annapurna, Gangapurna, Manang, the Kali Gandaki valley and more. The descent to Muktinath (3800m) is difficult. There are no accommodations near this famous temple so carry on to Ranipauwa (3710m). Day 11: Ranipauwa to Kagbeni (2 ½ - 3 Hrs) Enjoy the outstanding views as you look down toward Jharkot. The trail descends down the Jhong valley to reach green Kagbeni (2840m). Day 12: Kagbeni to Jomsom (2 ½ - 3 ½ Hrs) You will be well advised to start early to avoid the strong winds that come up the valley after 11 am. You can visit the Bon village of Lubra before reaching Jomsom (2760m). Day 13: Jomsom to Marpha (1 – 1 ½ Hrs) A very short hike which ends after crossing the Pankya Khola. Marpha (2680m) is known for its unique alcoholic drinks made from apples, apricot or peach. Day 14: Marpha to Larjung (3-4 Hrs) Take the alternative route via Chhairo and Chimang to avoid traffic on the main road. Pass through Tukuche’s stone houses. Enjoy the views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri North peaks. Around Larjung (2560m) there is much to explore especially the meditation caves. Day 15: To Ghasa (5-6 Hrs) Walking through Lete and Kalopani, you reach Ghasa (2000m) the last Thakali village and also the point from where the landscape changes to subtropical. Day 16: Ghasa to Tatopani (4 ½ - 5 ½ Hrs) You can avoid the main road and follow the mule trail. Tatopani (1190m) gets its name from the hot springs nearby where you can take a dip. Day 17: Tatopani to Ghorepani (6-7 Hrs) It is possible to catch a bus from here to Beni or Pokhara, but you’ll miss great views of mountains and rhododendron forests. A hard climb uphill leads to Ghorepani (2750m). An early morning visit to Poon Hill rewards you with spectacular views of the Dhaulagiri massif and some of the Annapurna peaks. Day 18: Ghorepani to Naya Pul (6-7 Hrs) An early descent from Ghorepani means you’ll be back in Pokhara via Naya Pul with plenty of time on your hands. The Annapurna Circuit Trek is widely regarded as one of the finest treks in the world, easily comparable to legendary treks such as the Everest Base Camp Trek or the Langtang Valley Trek. The journey allows you to learn about the amazing cultural and traditional lifestyles of both Hindus and Buddhists. You'll travel through a range of temperature zones, from the greenery of the Annapurna Conservation Area to the rarefied air of the high-altitude mountains itself.

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TOP 10 Things Needed For a Mountain Trek

Check out all the essentials and make sure to prepare and carry all the necessary things for you as you plan your next big trekking adventure. Right from the important things to carry, to basic things which makes a huge difference when you are climbing through the snow…… this list is a lifesaver!

Warm clothes including Pack only such clothing that you are comfortable in. Carry something warm and something comfortable including base layers, insulation layer, outer layer, trekking shirts, warm thermal socks, inner gloves and outer insulated gloves, waterproof trekking jackets and trousers. Personal First Aid When we say Personal, meaning all medicines you are prescribed by your doctor or meds or supplements that you need every day. While packing all the snow-trek-essentials, these are a few of the things that are usually forgotten by many travellers. Head Gears Carry your woollen caps, sun caps, woollen bandanas to cover your face and neck and dark sunglasses that covers your eyes properly to protect yourself from the solar or snow glare. Hiking Boots, Trekking Shoes You ought to carry waterproof trekking shoes, which have a great grip. You'll be able to travel in your sports shoes till the base camp but once you begin your journey further, you must change into your trekking shoes. Investing in a great quality shoe and gear is highly recommended, and make sure you break into your new shoes. A good gear includes a comfortable, lightweight, sturdy, and warm fit, providing good ankle protection and a firm grip on slippery surfaces. Sleeping Bags As nights in Nepal, especially in the mountains can get extremely cold, the blanket provided by the mountain lodges may not be enough. Thus, we suggest you carry a duck or goose down sleeping bag. Trekking Poles You should choose to buy trekking poles or hiking poles which are lightweight, adjustable, foldable and have some shock absorbent capabilities. It gives you stability, some comfort, and support to your knees and legs on all types of terrain. Sunblock Whenever hiking or trekking in the open, you should always protect yourself from the direct exposure of skin to the sun and continually retouch your high SPF sunblock. Sometimes the sunburn can be terrible and lead to long term diseases, hence if you are too much into hiking and trekking then buying a cap or hat will help you in a long way. Headlight In case it gets late or dark while coming back from the day’s climb, a torchlight or electric lamp can be a lifesaver. Something your trek organizer should take care of but carrying a head torch of your own will spare you the discomfort of the used one. Water Bottle & Thermos Carrying at least two water bottles of a litre each and a thermos will add to your convenience. One of the most important things is Water bottle, which will sustain in the harsh conditions too. When you are hiking, your body dehydrates, but most times, due to cold or cool temperatures, you do not realize that you are sweating. Hence, sipping water from your bottle frequently will keep you hydrated. Backpack While buying your backpack, you should check its straps, some side pockets and departments are provided and if it has a supporting frame fitted into it. This will help you organize your things in it. Investing on a good quality is recommended as it would help you feel light and less sweaty on the back. A good backpack must protect your gear or items from at least light rain/snow and also provide easy access or organization of your items.

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Janakpur Dham | City of Ponds

Janakpur, also known as Janakpurdham, was founded in the early 18th century. It is a sub-metropolitan city in Dhanusa District of Nepal. This city is located about 225km south-east of Kathmandu. Janakpur is the third largest city in the Terai region after Biratnagar and Birgunj, and it is the seventh largest city in Nepal. The five major rivers surrounding Janakpur are Dudhmati, Jalad, Rato, Balan and Kamala. The climate here is humid-subtropical. It is one of the fastest developing cities of Nepal.

Diverse ethnic groups of people live in the district of Dhanusha such as the Yadavs, Brahmins, Kyastha, Tharu, Musahar, Rajput and Chetris. This city has a number of good schools, colleges, health care facilities and parks as well. People mostly rely on tourism, agriculture and local industries for their economy. Mithila Art, which is famous all over the world is made by Maithili women of Janakpur. The grand Ram Janaki Temple is located in the center of the city and it draws large number of visitors every year. Janakpur is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus due to its connection with the Hindu epic, the Ramayana. It is believed that Goddess Sita was born here and it is the place of her marriage with Lord Ram. Janakpur possesses more than seventy ponds and it is also known as City of Ponds. Thousands of tourists come to visit this holy city every year. The pleasant weather, the grand and colorful festivals throughout the year, the stunning architecture of the temples and the friendly locals make Janakpur a favourite spot for tourists. But Janakpur is not just about temples and monuments. The city is well known for its rich cultural history, arts, language and literature. It is the heartland of the Mithila civilization, a melting pot of diverse cultures, religions and opportunities.

Some of the must visit places in Janakpur are:

Janaki Mandir It is one of the renowned Hindu temples which is dedicated to Hindu Goddess Sita. It is also named as Nau Lakha Mandir by the locals as the cost for the construction of the temple was nine lakhs. Queen Vrisha Bhanu of Tikamgarh, India built the temple in 1911 AD. It is constructed in the mixed style of Mughal and Hindu architecture. It is a three-storied structure and it is made entirely of stone and marble. There are 60 rooms that are decorated with flag of Nepal, colored glass, engravings and Mithila paintings, with beautiful lattice windows and turrets. In 1657, a golden statue of the Goddess Sita was found and Sita is said to have lived there. Janaki or Sita, had chosen Lord Rama as her husband during her engagement. Their marriage ceremony had occurred in the nearby temple which is called as Vivaha Mandap. Pilgrims and travelers from all the corners of the world visit this sacred Hindu Temple especially during November and December for Vivah Panchami. It is the city’s annual festival in which the marriage of Sita and Rama is celebrated with numerous sacred rites and rituals. During the festival, the temple is decorated with special arts, lights and bhajans are sung daily. We can experience the euphoric as well as the spiritual atmosphere around the temple’s premises. Ram Mandir This temple was built by Amar Singh Thapa in dedication to Ram, the prince of Ayodhya. The Ram Mandir is about 10-minute walk from Janaki Mandir, right opposite Dhanusagar. At the right side of the temple there are many stone idols of the Lord Shiva. The main festivals celebrated in Ram Mandir are Ram Navami and Vivah Panchami. As Ram Navami is the birth tithi (date) of Ram, special bhajans are sung on the day. On Vivah Panchami, some special traditional codes are performed between Ram Mandir and Janaki Mandir as marriage codes to be followed.

Vivaha Mandap Vivaha Mandap also known as Ram Sita Vivaha Mandir, marks the spot where Lord Ram and Sita got married. In this temple we can find the scene depicting the actual marriage. Demigods are also seen on the pillars, who came to witness the great event. Gangasagar Gangasagar is the holy pond in Janakpur which is located near Ram Mandir. It is believed that the water for this pond has been brought from the Ganga. This pond looks magical at night time. It is beautifully decorated during Chhath festival. Visitors can also enjoy a boat ride on the pond, even during the aarti time. Swargdwar It is located at the west bank of Gangasagar. Swargdwari means Swarg (The Heaven) and Dwar (gate). So, this place is considered as a gate to heaven for the dead people. Women Development Center It is a non-profit center that provides skills and business trainings to women so that they can earn their independent livelihoods. Initially women were taught paper art typical to the Mithila region but now they are given trainings for sewing, screen-printing, ceramics and paintings as well. Janakpur is a holy city where one can experience diverse culture, tradition, religion, arts and languages. The best season to visit Janakpur is May, July and August.

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