Nestled in the heart of South Asia, Nepal, often considered India’s younger sibling, beckons with its enchanting blend of history and spirituality. Beyond its breathtaking natural beauty lies a land of profound significance, where enlightened beings like Siddhartha Gautama, who later became Gautama Buddha, found their roots. Nepal’s vivid history is intricately woven with diverse cultures, ancient dynasties, and deep-rooted spiritual practices that continue to thrive. This write-up takes the reader on a captivating journey through this extraordinary land as I have experienced it, often in intimate groups of 10-12 curious travelers.
Nepal, often called the “Abode of the Gods,” holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus and Buddhists. It boasts sacred sites like the revered Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, dedicated to Bhagwan Shiva, and draws thousands of pilgrims and tourists yearly. Lumbini, the birthplace of Gautama the Buddha, is a vital destination for Buddhists worldwide; one can spot flocks of tourists from Japan, China, and Taiwan. Additionally, the Kathmandu Valley houses Swayambhunath Stupa, known as the Monkey Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa, which are critical Buddhist sites. Nepal is easy to get to, and a tourist visitor visa can be obtained upon arrival.
Interestingly, when I approached the counter to request the visa process, a lady was supervising the visa immigration process. The lady was dressed in all red with a huge Devi pendant adorning her neck. I smiled at her and showed her my pendent, and a wave of welcoming bliss flowed through me; I knew this would be a fruitful trip with Devi Ma watching over us all. Our small group was out of immigration in under ten minutes.
History
Nepal’s history is a rich tapestry, beginning with the Kirat period in the 7th century BC, followed by the rule of the Lichhavis and Mallas, where Hinduism and Buddhism coexisted. In the 18th century, Prithvi Narayan Shah’s unification marked Nepal’s modern era. The 19th century brought external pressures and territorial concessions under the Sugauli Treaty. The mid-19th century saw the autocratic Rana regime, which gave way to a constitutional monarchy in 1951. A Maoist insurgency from 1996 to 2006 ushered in changes, leading to the abolition of the monarchy in 2008 and Nepal’s transformation into a federal democratic republic. These historical shifts (note: Nepal was never technically colonized, unlike India), intertwined with Nepal’s enduring spirituality, shape its rich cultural heritage.
Four Distinct Destinations in Nepal
Nepal’s geography is more extensive than it seems; the visit points are chosen to experience the diverse landscape and spiritual significance. The trips to the four areas mentioned here could be taken in different orders, and sometimes, the routes depend on the seasons. I have personally experienced the challenges of landslides, though the tourism industry is conscious and prepared to detour as needed. Kathmandu is easy to get to; usually, when I travel with groups, we take the flight from Delhi to Nepal and arrive in the sacred land of the Himalayas. Amid this tapestry of history and spirituality, Nepal offers four distinct destinations we usually cover that captures its cultural richness and geographical diversity. These are Pokhara, Lumbini, Chitawan, and the Khantmandu-Lalitpur-Bhaktapur circuit.
Pokhara
Pokhara, Nepal’s second most populous city, sits amid the captivating Annapurna Himalayan Range, with the prominent Mount Machhapuchchhre and other majestic peaks as neighbors. Its strategic location, 200 kilometers west of Kathmandu, makes it a hotspot for Annapurna Circuit trekkers. This picturesque city, known as the “city of lakes,” is a wealth of natural beauty, with enchanting lakes, snow-capped mountains, and lush greenery that beckon trekkers to savor unique trekking experiences. Being known for tourism, there are plenty of hotels and Airbnb-type accommodations that are situated within walking distance of local and international cuisine spots, as well as the impressive art scene. I’ve been known to invest in art from this region, and the exchange rate keeps things affordable.
Pokhara, cradled in the lap of the Himalayas, is celebrated not only for its natural beauty but also for its profound spiritual significance. It is a city steeped in old traditions, featuring religious sites like the Bindhyabasini Temple, Tal Barahi Temple, and the World Peace Pagoda, where one can spend hours exploring. The city’s serene Phewa Lake is a must-visit; locals operate boat tours, and it is easy to reserve one. In my experience, this is a birder’s paradise; I’ve seen more kingfishers here than in India without using binoculars! Sometimes, big cats come to the lake to drink from the remote parts, and one can also spot monkeys in the lushness alongside the lake. The lake is serene in nature, especially if it begins to drizzle, and meditativeness sets in after the brief boat stop at the Pagoda-style Devi temple on one of the small island mounds on the lake. This ‘Lake Temple,’ also called the ‘Barahi Temple,’ is a significant Hindu temple in Pokhara, Nepal, dedicated to the goddess Barahi. It is situated on a small island in the middle of Phewa Lake, and the only way to reach it is by boat. This temple symbolizes the manifestation of Ajima, representing the female force, and is a prominent religious monument in the region. This area is also known for sports, such as thrilling paragliding adventures, ziplining, and rafting, and proximity to the Annapurna region offers visitors an immersive experience of Nepal’s natural beauty. One morning during our last visit, the group was scheduled to see sunrise on the Annapurna peaks, though the weather was cloudy and Surya Devata did not grant us His presence. However, the sight is spectacular for those who find themselves lucky at certain times of the year when the peaks look like they are on fire as the Sun rises. Usually, tour guides will find multi-story houses with open rooftops where locals have set up small shops and chai stalls, and though it’s too early to eat, I or someone in the group usually packs sweet granola bars to share with the warm chai.
Furthermore, Pokhara is known for religious festivals, such as Dashain, Tihar, and Buddha Jayanti, which create a harmonious blend of spirituality and natural splendor. The city is also rich in mystical caves, including the Mahendra, Chamero, and Gupteshwor Caves. Additionally, it houses revered temples like Bindhyabasini and Bhadrakali, the Bishwoshanti Stupa, and the Matepani Cave – in short, there is something for everyone. One of the most spiritual and profound places is the Gupeshawor Cave area.
Gupteshwor Caves are nestled in the northwestern part of Pokhara, near Davis Falls. These parts are a sacred sanctuary dedicated to Lord Shiva, often called “gupt” or “hidden Shiva.” These ancient caves, crafted from limestone and dating back over 2,000 years, offer an intriguing spiritual journey, even for those on the fence about seeking the profound. Tickets are easy to get, and one traverses the dark and narrow passages with flashlights or phone lights descending toward the waterfall. Phones can lighten up the path but cannot be used for photo-taking, especially of the vibrant Shivalinga situated along the way. At the bottom of the journey, one encounters a natural waterfall originating from the Davis Falls, which flows into the caves and vanishes underground. Within these mystical caverns, adorned with shrines and statues of Hindu deities like Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, and Goddess Saraswati, visitors experience the essence of devotion, marked by offerings of flowers and reverence. There is something mystical and magical about this place. The Murtis of Shiva and Parvati depicted on the banks of a water body transform one to think about Shiva imparting the essence of yoga to Parvati and Matsyendra witnessing the act. At least those feelings were evoked in my core at this spot, and tears of joy flowed. The Gupteshwor Caves take a few hours to navigate depending upon the visitors’ health and are an essential stop for those seeking a unique spiritual expedition in this part of culturally rich Nepal. There is an authentic Rudraksha shop right around the corner, known to all guides, and one can make a fruitful stop there to buy beads, souvenirs, and knick-knacks.
Lumbini
Lumbini, in southern Nepal, is acknowledged as one of the world’s most sacred Buddhist sites and a UNESCO World Heritage site (1997); it serves as a prominent center for international pilgrimage, tourism, and Buddhist studies. Lumbini Garden, renowned as a pristine forest in Buddhist literature, features sal tree groves, natural splendor, and deep historical roots. Its name, Lumbini, is derived from “Rummindei” in the Magadhi language and is linked to queen Rupadevi, for whom King Anjana of the Koliya clan created this garden. The Lumbini site, known as the Lumbini Grove or Sacred Zone, holds well-preserved archaeological remains of Buddhist viharas and stupas spanning centuries. Convenient transportation options connect Lumbini to various parts of Nepal, with an approximately 8-10 hour road journey from Kathmandu, but the city now has an international airport inaugurated by the Indian Prime Minister in 2022, coinciding with our last visit.
This sacred place is recognized as the birthplace of Gautama Buddha, who was born here in 623 BC. Lumbini holds a unique place in Buddhist pilgrimage, akin to Hindus visiting Varanasi. The Lumbini complex hosts numerous holy sites, with the Mayadevi temple being a prominent one dedicated to Buddha’s mother. Adjacent to the temple lies a sacred pond where Mayadevi is believed to have taken a ritual bath before giving birth to Siddhartha. Tourists flock to this place, and the grounds are serene; monks are often found sitting in silence, and the only sounds made are by the colorful flags strung from trees. Visitors can sign up for a guided tour of the palace and see the spot where Gautama was born. The excavation site is well preserved, and one needs to be mentally prepared to walk barefoot when entering the site as the Sun heats up the pathway. The site is overwhelming for believers and non-believers alike, and a little cafe along the path provides respite from the heat. There are some places to rest and a few scattered benches that stray dogs have claimed first. The site personnel, as well as the government, definitely need to plant more trees and make Lumbini as vibrant as the images one gets from what Gautama’s birthplace ought to look like. Lumbini is tourist-friendly, and most hotels and resorts combine minimalism with opulence. Due to the Indian Prime Minister’s visit, the city was pristine, and the rates were high, though we could find 4-star accommodations that allowed morning and evening yoga and meditation activities in the vast open grounds surrounded by immense trees. The hospitality is genuine and reminds one of India, and the staff is usually young, English-versed, and helpful. Interestingly, the best vegetarian food I’ve consistently had is in Lumbini, perhaps because the city caters to tourists worldwide, especially from East Asia, and the cooking styles reflect an incredible amalgamation that lights up the soul.
Chitwan
Chitwan’s accessibility is well-maintained through tourist buses, local buses, and private cars. Traveling from Kathmandu takes approximately 6-7 hours by road. Furthermore, Chitwan is accessible by air, with flights connecting it to Kathmandu and Pokhara through Bharatpur Airport, though one misses the scenery and change in topography when flying. Chitwan, though only partially comparable, reminds me of the safaris and diversity in the African continent. The rule of thumb is the same anywhere on the planet – to see wild animals, the best time is the hot season when they frequently visit waterholes. Chitwan is renowned for its lush national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, notably Chitwan National Park. This region provides a habitat for endangered species – the Bengal tiger and the one-horned rhinoceros. It is a paradise for eco-tourists, offering thrilling wildlife safaris, birdwatching, nature walks, and opportunities for cultural immersion with the indigenous Tharu community. Chitwan, a district in the southwestern corner of Nepal’s Bagmati Province, is the largest district in the province, spanning approximately 864.92 square miles and boasting a population of 579,984 as of 2011. The administrative center, Bharatpur, is Nepal’s largest city after Kathmandu, and it took us a while to get to the Park, given it had rained and the streets were washed out in several parts. In the Terai region, Chitwan is shaped like a triangle, with the Gandaki River defining its northwest border and an Indian watershed marking its southern boundary. Once one passes Bharatpur and pockets of civilization, it is just a lush, green jungle as far as the eyes can see.
Renowned for mustard cultivation and mustard oil production, Chitwan’s fertile soil, rich in silt deposited by the Narayani River and its tributaries, and known for rice, wheat, and various vegetables and the locals as well as a trained pallet can distinguish the taste of produce in different parts of this country. The district is a cradle of agricultural abundance. Chitwan is most celebrated for the Chitwan National Park, Nepal’s first national Park, established in 197 and spans 367.86 square miles. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is famous for its conservation of the one-horned Rhinoceros, Royal Bengal Tiger, and Gharial Crocodile, housing a diverse array of wildlife. Tourists flock to Chitwan National Park for thrilling jungle safaris, birdwatching, canoe rides, and many jungle adventures, and though the Bengal Tiger has remained elusive, we have been lucky enough to spot the majestic one-horned Rhinos and the beautiful Gharials all over the water bodies within Chitwan. One needs to be physically in shape to get into the narrow canoes that take you on the Rapti River. It’s easy to spot snakes, birds, and crocodiles along the way, and the handful of canoemen whose daily job is to ferry people are incredibly knowledgeable. Conservation efforts are ongoing, and one can visit a park where Gharial research is taking place, giving visitors a chance to observe these beautiful creatures from the embryo stage to adolescence and full-grown adults. Our group had a mini picnic at this place and had to ensure the monkeys were not necessarily attracted to unsupervised food items or cell phones!
There are many resorts in Chitwan, and each one is spacious, given the abundance in general. Our nature-loving group was interested in poolside sunrise yoga, and it was beautiful to administer a practice before the mugginess of the day set in. A stay of 3 to 4 nights is recommended to explore this tranquil region, offering yoga and relaxation practices and enjoying wildlife encounters. It is a must-visit destination for those seeking an exotic retreat and jungle adventures in the Terai region of Nepal, and the food is exceptionally fresh and local, served with the most significant warmth. A few people in the group wanted to help cook in the kitchen and the resort we stayed at accommodated this wish without any expectations whatsoever. This was the night of immersion learning, and the locals, too, learned a few essential American food items while all the resort guests and workers who dined within the premises got an unexpected but welcomed treat.
Bhaktapur-Lalitpur-Kathmandu
Bhaktapur is a very ancient city in the Kathmandu Valley, which is a treasure trove of historical and religious significance. Founded in the 12th century, it served as the capital of the Malla Kingdom and was renowned for its cultural and architectural brilliance. Bhaktapur’s Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts palaces, temples, and intricately carved wooden architecture, providing insights into Nepal’s rich heritage. The wooden carvings are ubiquitous – they adorn not just temples but also airports and furniture in hotels and restaurants, often mixing the ancient with the modern. Bhaktapur stood in time until one walked the streets and spotted bar signs announcing happy hours. It is a stronghold of Newar culture, featuring unique traditions, festivals, and a vibrant artistic scene. Bhaktapur is a few miles from Kathmandu and is the most densely populated district in the country. This city is also known as Khwopa or Bhasa in the Nepalese language. It was established in the 12th century by King Anand Dev Malla, and Bhaktapur served as the capital of the Greater Malla Kingdom in the Kathmandu Valley until the 15th century. The city stands out for its Newar tradition, cuisine, and artisans, boasting more temples per square mile than Patan or Kathmandu. Bhaktapur has undergone significant restoration efforts following the 1934 earthquake that caused substantial damage. Signs of damage from the 2015 earthquakes can still be observed.
Bhaktapur is famous for hosting numerous festive traditions and festivals, including Bisket Jatra, Gaijatra, Navadurga Nach, Nilbarahi Nach of Bode, Jibro-chedane Jatra (Tongue-piercing festival), Siddhiganesh Jatra, Balkumari Jatra of Thimi, and Sindhure Jatra, among others. Tourists worldwide visit Bhaktapur to explore its art, culture, and vibrant celebrations. One whole day is not enough to explore this beautiful space. English-speaking guides are easy to locate and are worth their weight in gold. The Golden Gate entrance to the 15th-century palace complex is embellished with intricate carvings of the Goddess Taleju, the attendants, and Garuda, showcasing metal craftsmanship in the Newari style. The Nyatapola Temple, constructed in 1702 AD, is a five-story Pagoda dedicated to Goddess Siddhi Lakshmi. There is a museum one can spend hours in, and if lucky, one can visit the site where Bali or 108 sacrifices were used to take place in the presence of royalty for the peace and prosperity of the populace and the kingdom. Locals and tourists are seen walking through the sites; children on field trips sketch the architecture, and security guards gently guard the time capsule as one merges and vanishes with the intricate, artistic structures and warmth felt in the space. The elderly men in the traditional Nepali cap are often found enjoying a cigarette, overlooking the massive Pagoda temples, simply imbibing the spiritual vibes of this ancient city as the various Gods, Goddesses, and Snake Devatas watch over them.
Lalitpur, also known as Patan or Manigal, is a culturally rich city nestled in the south-central part of the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal. One popular legend for the town’s name involves the deity Rato Machhindranath, brought from Assam, India, by three representatives of the Kathmandu Valley’s kingdoms. Lalit, a farmer, carried the deity to end a severe drought and earn the town its name, “Lalitpur.” One remains in awe throughout the walking tour, but it is also advised to do some homework and look at the beautiful aerial and drone footage of the place to put the rich heritage in context. Located along the banks of the Bagmati River, Lalitpur boasts a fascinating history dating back to the Licchavi, Thakuri, and Malla dynasties. Its cultural legacy is renowned for its arts and crafts, with expertise in metalwork and stone carving. This is the place where art collectors might find rare pieces, may it be pottery, sculpture, or paintings. The city thrives on agricultural pursuits and is a hub for the Banra sect of the Newar people. Like Bhaktapur, visitors enjoy a unique cultural experience with UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Patan Durbar Square, the must-visit 17th century Krishna Mandir, beautifully restored after the 2015 Earthquake and the Mahaboudha Temple. The city’s rich cultural heritage, historical significance, and religious sites make it an enticing destination for artistic exploration in the Kathmandu Valley.
Kathmandu is the capital and largest city of Nepal and stands as a city of profound spiritual importance. Known as the “City of Temples,” it serves as a sanctuary for believers and a hub for spiritual exploration. The city’s Hindu heritage is epitomized by the Pashupatinath Temple, one of the world’s holiest Hindu shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Kathmandu is synonymous with this temple. The Pashupatinath Temple is near the Bagmati River and is the oldest Hindu temple in the city; it is dedicated to Bhagwan Pashupati, a form of Shiva signifying him as Lord to all creatures. This temple complex includes a collection of various temples, ashrams, images, and inscriptions along the sacred Bagmati river; the temple holds immense significance as a pilgrimage destination for Hindus, and its name, “Pashupatinath,” translates to “Lord of all the creatures of the natural world” in Sanskrit. This site is also part of the Kathmandu Valley World Heritage Site, recognized by UNESCO in 1979. According to historical accounts, the temple was constructed by King Supuspadev, a Licchhavi ruler who reigned over the Kathmandu Valley between 464 and 505 AD. It was initially a simple Devalaya in the form of a linga before Supuspadev expanded it into a five-storied temple. The temple is one of the five locations where the Pandavas, the protagonists of the Hindu epic Mahabharata, built temples to worship Bhagwan Shiva. A popular legend tells of how the Pandavas, in search of Shiva, recognized him in the form of a bull among a group of bulls, and Bhima’s attempt to catch him resulted in Shiva emerging from the ground in Nepal, now known as the Pashupatinath Temple.
The best time to visit the temple and the surrounding areas is the evening, as visitors can partake in the Sandhya Kala Aarti and also have the opportunity to be on the banks of the river, men, women and children, visitors and believers, all immersed in the spiritual energy of the sacred space. One fantastic feature of the temple is the organization – visitors can line up and have a proper darshan of the Shiva Lingam, where the pujaris provide Rudraksha beads as blessed prasadam – not to consume but to wear around the neck. Many from the group simply sat around the complex in silence after the Aarti was overwhelmed by the tradition and rituals and witnessed the faith of the believers.
Meanwhile, Swayambhunath Stupa, often referred to as the “Monkey Temple,” is a holy Buddhist pilgrimage site featuring a majestic white stupa adorned with the watchful eyes of the Buddha, symbolizing wisdom and compassion. This monument is always crowded, and once you’ve taken part in the circumambulation of the Stupa, it is best to be an observer; stay in one place while watching enthusiastic believers making their rounds around the Stupa while colorful flags flutter in the wind and the eyes of the Buddha always “on.” The city also has three Durbar Squares—Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square—each housing palaces, temples, and rich architectural marvels. All of these are best traversed on foot with plenty of time.
Kathmandu is more than a spiritual hub; it also serves as a gateway to the Himalayas, drawing trekkers, mountaineers, and adventure enthusiasts from across the globe. The city’s bustling Thamel (Tamil) district offers many amenities for travelers, from trekking gear to international cuisine. Kathmandu’s role as a junction between the mundane and the divine, nature and culture, and adventure and spirituality make it a city unlike any other on the planet, though one does think about Varanasi throughout as the spiritual vibes are similar.
Land of the Devi(s)
The Manakamana Devi Temple is the highlight for many, especially Devi Sadhakas and those who wish to visit the temple for the wishes they make. It’s a significant religious site in Nepal and graces the landscape of the Gorkha district. Perched atop a 4265-foot hill, this sacred temple is nestled in a small village community approximately 65 miles west of Kathmandu and turns out to be a full-day trip. Devotees from Nepal and beyond hold this temple in high regard as it is dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati, believed to be an incarnation of Parvati, and revered by Hindus. The name “Manakamana” itself resonates with deep significance in this region. “Mana” translates to “heart” or “mind,” while “kamana” embodies the essence of “wish” or “desire.” Consequently, across the land, the temple and the Goddess are often affectionately referred to as the “wish-fulfilling Goddess.” Devotees wholeheartedly believe that this benevolent Deity grants their most heartfelt desires, solidifying her place as a beloved and cherished guardian of dreams and aspirations.
In the heart of this ancient tale stands Lakhan Thapa, the royal priest who held the key to the Queen of Gorkha’s extraordinary divine powers. It was under his guidance that the King, her beloved husband, bore witness to a wondrous sight: the Queen, manifesting as the ethereal Goddess Manakamana, and the priest himself, transformed into a majestic lion—the Queen’s devoted disciple. A wave of mysticism swept through the kingdom as the King’s life came to a mysterious end. In an act of unparalleled love, the Queen immolated herself on a sacred pyre, promising to return in six months. Her reincarnation was foretold when a humble farmer, toiling in his field, unwittingly cleaved a stone in twain, revealing a miraculous stream of blood and milk. The news spread like wildfire, and Thapa, invoking ancient tantric rituals, quelled the enchanting flow. Word of the Goddess’s awe-inspiring powers swiftly traveled, and pilgrims from distant corners of the world flocked to the temple, drawn by the allure of her blessings. The Manakamana Devi Temple, a humble shrine at its inception, was founded in the 17th century as a tribute to the divine. Only the descendants of Lakhan Thapa have had the honor of serving as priests in this hallowed sanctuary, and the present priest continues the sacred lineage as the 17th-generation heir.
The Manakamana Devi Temple isn’t just a place of worship; it is a vibrant cultural hub where annual religious ceremonies, including goat Bali and festivals, occur. Buses full of visitors continuously drive in and patiently wait for the cable car line after purchasing tickets. Devotees and temple priests conduct various rituals to honor Goddess Manakamana. In the realm of Hinduism, the cosmos is believed to be composed of five fundamental elements, the Pancha Mahabhuta: air, water, earth, fire, and ether. To pay homage to the divine Goddess, it is essential to include offerings that symbolize these elemental forces. Traditional offerings at her altar often encompass oil lamps, typically adorned with red cloth, vermillion, rice grains, as well as a bounty of fruits and nourishing foods, all of which hold profound significance in the worship rituals. The Bali of goats too is offered at this temple, away from the public eye.
Visiting this sacred site is convenient by a cable car ride, providing visitors with an awe-inspiring 10-minute journey offering unforgettable views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. This experience transports one to another world, as does the view when one disembarks and continues to climb up the steps to the Devi temple. Photos are allowed on the outside premises, but the Devi can only be experienced internally. New mothers carefully get their infants blessed, and mandir priests are understanding of non-local visitors where much of the “conversation” regarding the process of darshan occurs via hand gestures. Words are truly unnecessary here as one just has to surrender to the phenomena and let devotion flow. With its hilltop location, picturesque cable car journey, and the stunning natural beauty of its surroundings, the Manakamana Devi Temple offers a genuinely unique and spiritually enriching experience for those embarking on a journey of spiritual exploration and culture in Nepal along with the views of the Himalayan range and lush valleys. There is a popular restaurant and super clean restrooms to the side where the busses usually park; make sure to ask the manager to make fresh momos – the taste, especially the sauces, is a proper party on the palate.
Such a trip to Nepal usually takes less than two weeks to accomplish unless one wants to take part in Himalayan climbs. Visitors arrive in Nepal not just for spirituality and sports but also to enjoy the unique Nepali cuisine. The nation’s diverse and multicultural cuisine revolves around “Dal Bhat,” a traditional meal of lentil soup and rice, complemented by various regional side dishes. Momos are savory dumplings and a popular street food with international appeal. Regional cuisines like Newari, Thakali, Tibetan, and Sherpa offer distinct flavors, featuring dishes such as “Newari Bara,” “Thakali Thali,” “Tibetan Thukpa,” and “Sherpa Stew.” Local spices, ingredients, and herbs are integral, enriching the flavors, and roadside eateries might be safe to experience, especially if food is prepared in front of the patron’s eye and served ‘fresh.’ Though access to restrooms along the way is impressive in most remote parts, in my experience, such adventures are best done toward the end of the trip in Kathmandu right before flying out.
In sum, Nepal is a unique place, vibrant with people of immense faith who make up the fabric of this spiritual land. Nepal’s history and religious significance offer a multifaceted tapestry, welcoming visitors from around the world to explore and embrace its unique identity and the beauty of the land of the Himalayas.