This is a beautiful local village located in Dhulikhel, nearby the famous Namo Buddha Monastery. It overlooks the mighty Panchkhal Valley and is a showcase for traditional Nepali houses, art, architecture and Nepal’s rural way of living. It lies adjacent to a gem of a resort named ‘Namo Buddha Resort’ that has been applauded for its traditional Nepali housing décor using Earth mud and tiles and serving locally grown organic food from its own farm inside its premises. These various wonderful facets make this trip such a delight for visitors.
We drive 45 mins from Kathmandu to Dhulikhel through scenic countryside and do a short sightseeing of old Dhulikhel town.
Dhulikhel is an ancient town of Newar ethnic community, situated 30kms East at the outer border of Kathmandu Valley. There are numerous temples lining the streets of Dhulikhel, each showcasing traditional Newari craftsmanship and artistic skill, alongside bare-brick houses with carved wooden windows and sacred statues. The old part of the town is even more interesting place to visit with some traditional Nepalese buildings and temples.
After the sightseeing, we drive 20 mins to Dhulikhel Viewpoint to see a full 360 degree view of The Himalayas and the adjoining valley.
Dhulikhel Viewpoint
It is located on a hilltop overlooking the beautiful Dhulikhel town, the mighty Panchkhal Valley and the highlight of the place- The Mighty Himalayas. On a clear day, we can see the whole range of mountains spread from east to west. It boasts of beautiful Himalayan views, with a stunning panorama of snow-capped peaks like Dorje Lakpa, Gauri Shankar, Hiunchuli and Langtang Lirung The view of the morning sunrise emanating from the horizon and lighting up the Himalayan peaks is a sight to behold! It is a very famous, scenic tourist point from where we can observe the whole landscape of hills, mountains, plains far and wide across covering many districts of Nepal.
We drive further 30 mins to Namobuddha Monastery and explore the grounds. Meditate, attend afternoon Puja (ritual) ceremony, and talk to Ani (Woman Monk) about their ways of life and Buddhism.
Namo Buddha Monastery
It is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Nepal, with its Stupa and the Tiger’s Den. Namo Buddha is a 30 minute scenic walk through the pine forest from the resort. It is believed the ancient Buddha was born here as a prince. The Buddha Shakyamuni selflessly sacrificed to feed a starving tiger with his own flesh. Located at the top a hill, it overlooks important towns like Dhulikhel, Banepa and the scenery is a sight to behold. We can also get a chance to see amazing views of the Himalayan range including Gaurishankar Himal on a clear day.
Thrangu Tashi Yangtze Monastery
It is also an important site at Namo Buddha. You can attend an early morning or afternoon Puja (ritual) or just explore the grounds.
Afterwards, we drive 10 mins to Namobuddha Resort. Relax and enjoy local organic tea along with the tranquil view of the resort and have lunch.
Namobudda Resort
Perched on a hilltop at 1800m, just outside the Kathmandu Valley, it is an oasis of peace and tranquility, offering spectacular views of the Himalayan mountain range on clear days. The resort is built in traditional Newari style, surrounded by organic farmland serving local and only vegetarian food, flower gardens and forest, where we encourage sustainable methods of cultivation as well as preserving the natural wildlife habitat. Ideal location allows many short treks including to Namo Buddha, the famous Buddhist site, and Thrangu Tashi Yangtze Monastery. At the end of your day, you are welcome to join the campfire with their famous hot punch! (http://www.namobuddharesort.com)
After lunch and relaxing a bit, we hike (1-2hrs) to nearby local Village Phulbari. We observe rural Nepali lifestyle, typical Nepali old houses, temples and engage, converse with locals and have a taste of their special local drinks.
Phulbari
It is a beautiful local village located in Dhulikhel, nearby the famous Namo Buddha Monastery. It overlooks the mighty Panchkhal Valley and is a showcase for traditional Nepali houses, art, architecture and Nepal’s rural way of living. It has been applauded for its traditional Nepali housing décor using Earth mud and tiles and serving locally grown organic food from its own farm inside its premises. These various wonderful facets make this trip such a delight for visitors.
Return back to the resort and late afternoon drive back to Kathmandu.
Please note: The suggested itinerary can be shortened or lengthened upon request.