Kathmandu valley is not only Kathmandu , Patan and Bhaktapur Durbar squares and surroundings. There are many places in and around Kathmandu valley where one can experience rich cultural and historical life style of the Nepali (specially the life style of the native Kathmanduties) people who are unknown to many foreigners. These places are unique in the senses that the people in these areas are still untouched by the tourist impression and the modern lifestyle (exception to some minor groups). In this chapter we have tried to provide brief information to these places and program we offer for these places along with the prices
Area
Kirtipur and Bungamati , Khokana
Duration
3-5 hours
Grade
Easy walk, recommended for all age.
Special
Village/temple visit, traditional way of Newari life.
INTRODUCTION Kirtipur is a magnificent exception to the usual Newari settlements. Perched on twin hillocks and clinging to the saddle about 5 kms from Kathmandu . Kirtipur has two satellite hamlets to the south, Panga and Nagaon.
The history of the village dates back to the 12th century when it was a outpost of the Patan but later on became a separate kingdom. The kingdom was so strong the it defeated the MOST powerful king of the Nepalese history three times when he tried to unify it with the Nepal . Remains of the fortified walls and part of the original 12 gates can still be seen.
Even though most of the people in the village are the Newar the differences in the culture and the daily ways of life can be seen during the tour as most of the people are farmers and have unique culture and tradition. Beside the village visit there are also some interesting temples such as Bag Bhairav, Chlanchu Vihar etc. Further form Kirtipur the temple of Goddess Dakshinakali is situated which is an important pilgrimage for Nepalese people. A visit to Kirtipur can be combined with the visit to Chovar and Panga as well.
We will have our lunch at Hattiban Resort on top of hill, located at a very nice place, which provides birds' eye view of Kathmandu valley and beyond. Located at an altitude of 2100m from sea level ( Kathmandu is 1350m) this place can also be used a overnight stop as the resort has nice rooms and services. The prices are available on request.
After lunch we proceed to Khokana and Bungamati. Khokana and Bungamati are the ancient Newari village (of the 16th century) alike Kirtipur but a visit to Khokana and Bungamati is a bit different to the visit to Kirtipur. The people in Khokana are involved in the traditional oil making which is the main attraction of the village and the people in Bungamati are involved more in traditional wood carving which one can see in the historic places in and around Kathmandu valley. This is the perfect "day hiking" trip in Kathmandu . Access Car from Kathmandu to Kirtipur and Patan Ring Road /Bungamati to Kathmandu .
