Selective Journeys - Indus Experiences

nepal
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AN INTRODUCTION TO
SELECTIVE JOURNEYS
High up in the Himalayas, framed by majestic
Himalayan peaks, lies a place of magic and mystique,
place of time worn temples and pagodas, stunning
walking trails through the Rhododendron forests among the lofty peaks , home of Buddhism, century old
Royal Palaces and of course the famous Gurkha
warriors!
A land of geographic icons, historic adventurers and
monumental landscapes; the country is a treasure trove
of Medieval Architecture and deep Spiritual meaning.
Nepal sits in the shadow of Everest but shines with
myriad treasures. Nature lovers have so much choiceChitwan National Park is a UNESCO natural treasure –
home to one of the last populations of single-horned
Asiatic rhinoceros and the majestic Bengal tiger. Birders
have a paradise – with over 800 species documented!
Nepal’s vibrant cities are filled with art and culture and
simple villages preserving an ancient way of life make
Nepal a constant source of inspiration for curious
globetrotters in search of enlightening experiences. Our
selection of Selective Journeys capture the real essence of
what Nepal has to offer and will make your holiday to
this majestic land a little bit special.
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NEPAL
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COOKING WITH A LOCAL FAMILY
Nepali cuisine is surprisingly diverse for a small country, with
main influences from Tibetan/Chinese and Indian culinary
methods and cooking styles based on ethnicity and on soil and
climate.
The main styles are the popular Mid-hills cooking, the ancient
Newari from Kathmandu valley, Thakali-from the High
Himalayas and the Madhesi cooking from the plains-all with
their splendid dishes and variations. The main standard fare is
the Dal-Bhat-Tarkari. (Rice-lentil-soup- vegetable/meat curry
all served with condiments of extremely spicy chutney or pickle
which can be fresh or fermented.
The cooking classes all feature many popular dishes like the
Momo, and various other traditional dishes. There are various
styles of classes from homestays which offers real taste of local
cuisines with home tips, tricks and secret ingredients used,
whilst there are professional cooking classes organized at
different hotels demonstrating their own way of cooking Nepali
dishes. One of the delights of cooking classes and eating with
family would be learning the secrets from experienced hands.
Try all of these wonderful dishes, desserts and beverages; and
don’t miss out the chance to learn recipes of these authentic
Nepali cuisines.
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Bungee Jumping, Zip flying
& Rafting Adventures
Less than 3 hours outside Kathmandu, the ultimate thrill of a
bungee jump can now be experienced in Nepal at one of the best
sites that this sport can boast of anywhere in the world. This
jump site is on a 166m wide steel suspension bridge over the
Bhoti Koshi River near the Nepal/Tiber border. This 160 m jump
is s designed by one of New Zealand's leading bungee
consultants, and is operated by some of the most experienced
jump masters in the business. Similarly Nepal’s first tower bungy
jump with a 70 m drop also can be taken in the beautiful
Pokhara valley.
With an incline of 56 degree, total length of 1.8 km and a vertical
drop of 600 meters, The Zip flying in Pokhara valley is the tallest,
the longest and the steepest zipline in the whole world. Located
in one of the most beautiful places on the planet, no zip line ever
made comes even close to this.
Blessed with Himalayan fed rivers, Nepal has an amazing
diversity of white waters of various grades of rafting and offers
the best white water experience in the world. Whether you are
beginner or an expert paddler the trips are from convenient half
day excursions to full on two weeks of river expeditions, the
possibilities are endless. Rivers like Trishuli near Kathmandu or
the Seti in Pokhara offer a perfect river for family trips while for
the ones who like something more challenging, the grade 5
rapids of Bhotekoshi churning down from Tibet and the Raging
River of Marsyangdi described one of the best whitewater runs
in the world should satisfy your appetite. All this excitement
among the scenery of the Himalayas as a backdrop is
breathtaking!
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Everest Mountain Flight
The mountain flight experience is a must to experience the
Himalayas, the highest mountain range in the world. The hour
long flight operates from Kathmandu and is a brilliant
opportunity to see the majestic peaks so close without having to
trek to the region.The flight is a guaranteed flight, only
operating when the weather is good and view is satisfactory.
The service is run on modern Beechcraft 1900D, the safest plane
operating in the domestic sector and takes you to a height of
around 25,000 feet where you can enjoy a seemingly endless
chain of snowcapped peaks as you fly above the clouds, over
glaciers and lakes, rivers and gorges from your private individual
window. The clear, non-tinted window offers a great
opportunity to experience and photograph the aerial view of the
Kathmandu valley and the landscapes of Nepal. And Of course
the highlight being the journey across the world’s highest
peaks, Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga – 3rd highest, Lhoste, Makalu,
Cho Oyu, to name just a few including the Tibetan plateau.
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Garden of Dreams
The Garden of Dreams in Kathmandu was built by Field Marshal
Kaiser Sumsher Rana and designed and constructed by Kishore
Narsingh in the 1920's. It was built as a private garden and known
as the Garden of the Six Seasons. As a historic garden in
Kathmandu it was like no other. Inside the walls were pavilions,
fountains, ponds, elaborate garden furniture along with European
neo classical inspired features including verandas, pergolas and
birdhouses. Each of the six pavilions inside the garden are
dedicated to one of Nepal's six seasons. The Garden now has a
small museum, library, several cafes and is a perfect place to relax
from the chaotic Kathmandu streets.
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LUMBINI
Birthplace of Lord Buddha
DINNER WITH AN
EVEREST SUMMITEER
Lumbini is the place where Lord Buddha was born and this
pilgrimage site has been the center of attraction for all Buddhist
devotees around the world. This historic land also symbolizes
world peace and must visit place for all those who want to
research about origin of Buddha and Buddhism. While visiting
Mayadevi Temple you would be delighted to find the exact spot
where Siddhartha Gautama or Lord Buddha was born. Nearby
in the scared garden, you will witness Ashok Pillar and prayer
flags flattering from top of the bodhi tree.In recent years lots of
renovation and development works have been carried out by the
government, international communities and locals. Various
monasteries, stupas, museums and temples have been built.
Similarly, visit to tilaurakot would be worthwhile where various
artifacts have been recently discovered. Therefore if you are
planning to embark in for tours in Nepal then allocate couple of
days to visit Lumbini and immerse in its peaceful atmosphere.
Mount Everest also known locally as Sagarmatha or
Chomolungma, is the highest summit in the world and is
recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ever since the first
attempts to scale the mountain in the early 1920s, Mount Everest
has inspired and attracted people from all over the world. It is a
holy mountain in Nepal and is called "Chomolongma" meaning
"Goddess of the Winds" by the Sherpas who reside in its lap, and
"Sagarmatha" by Nepalese People meaning "Head of the Ocean".
You can see that Everest is more than just the tallest mountain in
the world; it means a whole lot more to many people other than
those who attempt to climb it!
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What better way to finish your trip by having a farewell dinner
with a Everest summiteer who who will be happy to talk about his
amazing experiennces and share many a stories while answering
any questions that you may have.
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A Day with Farmers
in Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur is small 12th Century medieval town located nearby
Kathmandu known for its local cultural highlights, festivals,
heritage site, temples and the lifestyle of local inhabitants most of
whom are involved in agriculture sector. Bhaktapur mainly depends
on tourism and agriculture sector for its revenues.
A typical experience day involves meeting the farmer and the family
in their traditional homes as they prepare for their day out. The day
out involves learning about farming, their lifestyle, information on
various traditional agriculture methods and food. One may also
help the farmer with growing/harvesting various produce on the
day and eat with the farmers. This is combined with exclusive
sightseeing opportunity at world heritage site at Bhaktapur Durbar
Square and nearby attractions.
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Walking in the
Kathmandu Valley
Kathmandu valley surrounded by green hills and traditional
rural villages is a treasure-trove of ancient monuments and
Hindu-Buddhist temples and many world heritage sights. There
are numerous walking/hiking trails based around Kathmandu.
Places like Nagarkot, Shivapuri, Chisapani, Kakani,
Champadevi, Phulchoki, Namobuddha, Dakshinkali, Pharping,
Nakkhu and Bhaktapur sightseeing gives you a chance to view
the panoramic mountain views along with cultural insights in a
short period of time. These hikes range from a few days to a few
hours and are for every age group and for all seasons without
having to go to the trekking areas. Kathmandu hikes, combined
with sightseeing tours of heritages sites and a scenic flight to see
Mt Everest could make a fantastic short trip in Nepal.
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A DAY IN BANDIPUR VILLAGE
Bandipur Village is a picturesque town nestled in the Himalayan
foothills of Nepal, a land as famous for its natural beauty as for
the hospitality of its people. Bandipur village is at the middle of
two major tourist destinations Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Situated on a hilltop above the highway town of Dumre,
Bandipur captivates the visitor with its cultural appeal and
pristine scenery. Bandipur Village Newar town has maintained
its age-old flavour, and presents sightseers with a heady mix of
history, architecture, incredible views, awesome caves and
unspoiled landscapes. Bandipur village has been described as a
natural view tower; indeed, one can enjoy a spectacular
panorama of the entire Annapurna Range plus the peaks of
Dhaulagiri, Manaslu and Langtang from here. Apart from the
stunning views of the Himalaya and the Marsyangdi Valley, a
visit to the town is an opportunity to get a close look at Newar
cultural life.
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CYCLING TOURS IN NEPAL
Nepal has now achieved worldwide recognition as one of the
best mountain biking destinations that caters to all levels of
riders. Nepal being a mountainous country with diverse
landscapes and breathtaking natural beauty offers numerous dirt
roads and the trails that lead to scenic places inside and outside
the valley which has made Nepal a favorite among mountain
Bikers. There are impressive sites in the cities, including that of
the capital, Kathmandu, and the nearby hilltop towns of
Dhulikhel and Nagarkot. In Kathmandu valley alone there are
five World Heritage sites. Along with Kathmandu Valley there
are many other popular destinations for mountain biking
includes Pokhara valley-gateway to the Himalayas, and even the
Everest region. Cycling tours in Nepal will give you immense
satisfaction with its unique culture as it showcases stunning
panoramas of the Himalayas, explores jungles and National
Parks with many kilometers of rambling single tracks through
rice fields and local villages.
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BIRD WATCHING IN NEPAL
Nepal’s varied elevations support more than 850 species of birds,
or about 10 percent of the world’s total species. No wonder Bird
watching is one of the famous recreational tours in Nepal. The
variety of habitation such as wetlands, tropical, subtropical forests
makes sure that around 500 species of birds can be sighted within
the Kathmandu valley and surrounding forest alone and more than
450 species of birds have been spotted in Chitwan National Park,
while the Koshi Tappu Wetlands has been designated Asia’s finest
bird watching site. The Mai Valley and Tamur Valley in east Nepal,
Lumbini in central Nepal, and Dang Valley in the west are also
good locations to sight exotic birds including the spiny babbler
which is unique to Nepal as it has yet to be spotted outside this
country. As bird watching becomes immensely popular,
specialized bird-watching tours are offered in the different national
parks and wildlife reserves.
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ELEPHANT BACK SAFARI
Chitwan National park is a UNESCO protected World Heritage
Site and is renowned for its Rhino sightings in great numbers.
Taking an elephant safari through the idyllic maze of the park is
one of the most treasured and sought after adventures. The day
starts with an early rise with the sun to watch animals, big and
small, start their daily routine. Guided by an expert naturalist,
learn how the interaction of flora and fauna create the ecosystems
of the Park. With mixed vegetation of Savannah, Riverine and Sal
forest, Chitwan is Nepal’s most visited National Park and a haven
for wild life aficionados. The various animal in the park are the
one-horned rhinoceros, several types of deer, monkeys, wild
boar, bison, sloth bear, leopard and, if lucky, the Royal Bengal
tiger. This exciting ride lasts for 2-2½ hours. Regardless, an
elephant safari under the canopy of the jungle is a truly soothing
experience where, surrounded by beautiful scenery, one can be at
peace with nature.
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BOAT SAFARI
THE VIEWS OF DHULIKHEL
A boating expedition down the Narayani River in Chitwan is a
soothing experience and there is no alternate experience to
canoeing towards a confluence of three rivers for a sundowner.
Cruising on the wide expanse of the river, pockets of rapids
propel the boats along, as gentle waves lap at the sides. Sitting
inside a hand-carved canoe, keep your eyes peeled for a variety
of birdlife and wildlife. Top of the list are the endangered fisheating Gharial crocodile and its more sinister relative, the
Marsh-Muggger. With its brown, earthen coloured scales
cleverly camouflaged on the banks, the Marsh-Mugger is both a
challenge and a treat to spot. As the Narayani River is the
natural border between the National park and the surround
villages, boating trips will also give guests a glimpse into village
life. Watch local fisherman as they skillfully go about their daily
work, or find children play on the banks above.
Dhulikhel is considered as one of the best viewpoints for capturing
best panoramic snow-capped mountain views. Viewpoint at
Dhulikhel village offers Himalayan ranges stretching from Mt.
Annapurna in the far west to Mt. Karolung in the Far East. It is an
ancient town which exhibits the centuries old temples, shrines,
monasteries and traditionally crafted windows and houses. Hiking
towards Namo Buddha through balthali village is equally
mesmerizing which is the scared place for Buddhists. Dhulikhel
also connects with Tibetan border through tatopani which is
famous for natural hotspring spas, ideal place for relaxing and
reenergizing yourself. There is also an option to hike back into
another culturally rich Panauti village mostly inhabited by Newars
communities.
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AN ULTRALIGHT EXPERIENCE
PARAGLIDING OVER POKHARA
The Pokhara Valley – one of the most picturesque spots of Nepal
is enhanced by its lovely lakes Phewa, Begnas, and Rupa. At an
altitude of 827 m from sea-level, it offers magnificent views of
Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Manaslu (8, 128m), Machhapuchhre
(6,997m)
and
the
five
peaks
of
Annapurna.
Nowhere else on earth can you get so close (25 miles) to so many
peaks that exceed 22,000 feet thus offering a perfect place for
your ultralight experience.This flight takes you close to the
Mount Fishtail foothills with the speed of approximately 90 km/
hr. The views are simply superb and the flight leaves you feeling
exhilarated. A typical flight involves 30 minutes of soaring
through the sky over and around the Pokhara Valley with the
mountains and as Phewa Lake and other interesting sights.
Capture all of your flight memories with your camera and
without a window impairing your view or your camera’s view.
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One of Pokhara’s famous view point is Sarangkot now a worldclass paragliding spot & an amazing place to experience
paragliding for the first time. This spectacular spot is 2000ft above
and overlooks the Pokhara valley, with 3 of the highest mountains
in the world - Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Manasulu dominating the
skyline to the north. Nothing compares to the feeling of soaring
freely with the birds over one of the most picturesque landscapes
on earth. Drift gracefully from take-off at Sarangkot (1592m),
float over mystery shrouded monasteries, beautiful turquoise
lakes and villages forgotten by time. Tandem flying involves a
pilot flying with the passenger and are built for comfort and
safety, and they feel like an armchair in flight. Once launched the
passenger just sits back, relaxes and takes in the epic scenery.
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Avanta Harrow
79 College Road
Harrow - HA1 1BD
Tel: +44 (0)20 8901 7320
[email protected]
www.indusexperiences.co.uk