Nepal: From Kathmandu to the Annapurnas

 

Nepal: From Kathmandu to the Annapurnas

Nepal, a land of soaring mountains, ancient temples, and vibrant culture, is an adventurer's paradise. From the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the snow-capped peaks of the Annapurnas, Nepal offers epic experiences for thrill-seekers, culture lovers, and nature enthusiasts alike. Here’s a guide to some unforgettable adventures in Nepal:

1. Explore the Historic Wonders of Kathmandu Valley

• Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital, is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and spirituality. Start with a visit to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Swayambhunath (the Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple. Wander the ancient courtyards of Kathmandu Durbar Square and Patan Durbar Square to admire Newari architecture and experience local art, crafts, and cuisine.

2. Trek the Annapurna Circuit

• The Annapurna Circuit is one of the most famous treks in the world, taking you through a diverse landscape of valleys, villages, and alpine forests. The trek can range from 10 to 20 days, with highlights like Thorong La Pass (the world’s highest pass) and stunning views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. You'll pass through traditional villages, interact with locals, and experience the rich culture of the region.

3. Summit Poon Hill for Sunrise Views

• If you’re looking for a shorter trek, the Poon Hill trek in the Annapurna region is a perfect choice. After a few days’ hike, you’ll reach Poon Hill at dawn to witness the sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. It’s an awe-inspiring sight as the mountains are bathed in a warm golden glow.

4. Visit Lumbini – The Birthplace of Buddha

• Lumbini, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a pilgrimage destination for Buddhists worldwide. Explore the Maya Devi Temple, believed to be Buddha’s birthplace, and stroll through beautiful monasteries built by various countries. Lumbini offers a serene escape and a fascinating insight into Buddhist history.

5. Go White-Water Rafting on the Trishuli River

• Nepal is a top destination for white-water rafting, and the Trishuli River offers thrilling rapids suitable for both beginners and seasoned adventurers. Paddle through rushing rapids surrounded by scenic landscapes of hills and forests. For even more adventure, try multi-day rafting trips on the Kali Gandaki or Bhote Koshi Rivers.

6. Embark on a Jungle Safari in Chitwan National Park

• Swap the mountains for the jungle with a safari in Chitwan National Park. Spot Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinos, elephants, and an array of bird species as you explore the dense forests on foot, by jeep, or even on elephant-back. Chitwan is also home to the Tharu community, who offer unique cultural performances and insights into their traditional way of life.

7. Try Paragliding in Pokhara

• Pokhara, known as the “Gateway to the Annapurnas,” is also a hotspot for adventure sports. Experience the thrill of paragliding from Sarangkot, where you’ll soar over Phewa Lake with panoramic views of the Annapurna range. Pokhara also offers zip-lining, bungee jumping, and mountain biking for adrenaline junkies.

8. Witness Everest from Kala Patthar

• For a breathtaking close-up view of Everest, trek to Kala Patthar near Everest Base Camp. Known as one of the best spots to view Mount Everest, it offers stunning vistas of the Himalayan giants. The trek to Everest Base Camp is a challenging yet rewarding experience, leading you through rugged trails, high-altitude landscapes, and Sherpa villages.

9. Discover Ancient Temples in Bhaktapur

• Just a short drive from Kathmandu, Bhaktapur is a beautifully preserved medieval city known for its traditional art, architecture, and pottery. Wander through narrow alleys, admire centuries-old temples and sculptures, and sample local treats like juju dhau (king curd).

10. Attend the Dashain or Tihar Festivals

• If you’re visiting in the fall, immerse yourself in Nepal’s culture by joining the Dashain and Tihar festivals, two of the biggest celebrations in Nepal. During Dashain, families come together for blessings, while Tihar, also known as the Festival of Lights, honors animals like crows, dogs, and cows. Streets are illuminated with colorful lights, flowers, and rangoli patterns.

11. Climb Island Peak or Mera Peak

• For those looking to push themselves, Island Peak and Mera Peak offer high-altitude climbing experiences without requiring advanced mountaineering skills. These treks provide a sense of achievement and a taste of Himalayan climbing, with rewarding views from the summit.

12. Relax by the Lakeside in Pokhara

After all the adventures, unwind by Phewa Lake in Pokhara. Rent a boat to paddle around the lake, or visit the Tal Barahi Temple located on a small island in the middle. The lakeside area has cozy cafes, yoga centers, and live music, makin

Prayagraj Tourism

 

Prayagraj Tourism

Situated on the confluence of Ganga and  Yamuna, Allahabad is one of the holiest cities associated with Hinduism. Situated in eastern Uttar Pradesh, the city was went by the name of Prayag and is today one of the four sites where the is held every 12 years. The city’s original name Prayag (translated as place of offerings) owes its origin to the fact that it was located at the sangam or confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati rivers.

Allahabad in Uttar Pradesh

Allahabad is one of the four venues of the Kumbh Mela held besides Haridwar, Ujjain and Nashik and also finds mention in the travelogues of the Chinese traveler Hsuan Tsang who described it as part of Harshavardhan’s empire. In 1575, the Mughal emperor Akbar visited Prayag and renamed the city Illahabad, which was later anglicized to Allahabad. Allahabad became the provincial capital city of the Mughal Empire ans was also invaded by the Marathas. Queen Victoria’s Proclamation of 1858 by which power was transferred from East India Company to British Crown was read out by Lord Canning in Allahabad. Allahabad became one of the hot spots of India’s freedom movement against the British rule and played an active role during the mutiny of 1857.

The city has given India most number of Prime Ministers (seven) post Independence.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN PRAYAGRAJ (ALLAHABAD)

There are several options for accommodation in Allahabad at a convenient distance from the railway station and bus depot. A room in a budget hotel should set you back by a minimum of Rs 1000. It is advisable to opt for an AC room as it is generally warm throughout the peak summer months.

One can also get deluxe rooms which offer transport services, and extra facilities like swimming pools and health clubs. Hotels in the city center organize trips around the city.

BEST PLACES TO EAT IN PRAYAGRAJ (ALLAHABAD)

Allahabad is a modern city, where finding good restaurants isn’t a problem. The Mughlai cuisine of Allahabad is very famous and you shouldn’t miss the Mughal themed restaurants here. There are various dishes and options to satisfy your taste buds. Loknath area of the city is a favorite spot for foodies, offering street-food and typical Allahabadi culture.

There are budget as well as mid-range restaurants available all over the city. Most restaurants do not offer liquor on their menu. Drinking alcohol in public is frowned upon, while drinking it in family restaurants is not allowed at all.

BEST TIME TO VISIT ALLAHABAD (Prayagraj)

The average minimum and maximum temperature of Allahabad is as given below. The best time to visit Allahabad is also specified.

• Kumbh Mela
• Kumbh Luxury Cottage
• All Tour Package
• Pind Daan, Shradh and Asthi Visarjan
• Hand Boat Booking in Varanasi
• Musical Boat Ride in Varanasi
• Motor Boat Booking in Varanasi
• Kumbh Mela
• Kumbh Luxury Cottage
• All Tour Package
• Ganga Aarti Boat ride in Varanasi
• Hand Boat Booking in Varanasi
• Musical Boat Ride in Varanasi
• Motor Boat Booking in Varanasi
• Kumbh Mela
• Kumbh Luxury Cottage
• All Tour Package

 

Maha kumbh 2025 tour packages

 

Kumbh Mela Tour Packages

Before going to Kumbh Mela in 2025, it is necessary to look into Kumbh Mela packages. One of the auspicious Hindu festivals in India is the Kumbh Mela. On the 13th day of January 2025, the holy city, Prayagraj (one among the leading touristic cities in Uttar Pradesh) will welcome the sacred event of the Kumbh Mela. Devoted sadhus, akharas and more than one million people are going to take part in this highly significant event. Don’t miss this kind of experience! Experience the Kumbh Mela pilgrim on an outstanding trip prepared for you! We provide tents with luxury and affordable accommodation options for Kumbh Mela so as to give our clients amazing tour and lodging experiences.

Also, we have spiritual packages that may be combined with the well-known Varanasi Tour. Additionally, we have tailor-made bundles whereby you specify what you prefer in a tour. One thing should be noticed is that while in the plan it is mentioned as it will take place on 13th January 2025, Prayagraj Kumbh Mela, this has to be sure that it refers the right years and places. However, this is just our mission of making it unforgettable for you; we want it really amazing.

You should make an early booking for a package because there is shortage of lodging, good, transport and other facilities required during travel. We provide affordable as well as Luxury Kumbh Mela Package cost effectively. Everything right from excellent Transport Service, luxury or budget camping experience is included in the Kumbh Mela Tour package. The tents have attached bathroom facilities, food services and all assistance for your special spiritual or holiday tour.

Book Now Kumbh Mela Tour Packages 2025

Our menu consists of vegetarian dishes, featuring Indian and continental food and we do it all to make your vacation exciting. Tailor made tour packages are provided for you to explore the holy bathing ceremonies performed in the auspicious days of shahi snans, or any other momentous events at the Kumbh Mela, at will.

How to Book Kumbh Mela Package?

Choose a Kumbh package that suits you and fill out the enquiry form to book it. You will be contacted within an hour by one of our executives with all the information you need regarding your inquiry. If you would like to book the Kumbh Mela Packages, please feel free to contact us by phone or email.

• Office: +91-9519048098
• Mob: +91-9935650060

Dev Diwali In Varanasi 2025

 

Dev Diwali In Varanasi 2025

Dev Diwali or Dev Deepawali is a Hindu festival observed in the Hindu month of ‘Kartik’, celebrated with great pomp and show in the Indian city of Varanasi, in Uttar Pradesh. Dev Diwali is the ‘Festival of Lights of the Gods’ and falls on the Kartik Purnima (full moon day), fifteen days after the celebrations of Diwali. It corresponds to the month of November-December in the Gregorian calendar.

This religious ceremony is started by chanting of the holy Vedic mantras by the priests, lighting diyas at the ghats and the sparkling of fire crackers, to welcome and please the Gods and Goddesses.

Dev Diwali 2025 is on November 5th

On the occasion of Dev Diwali, all the ghats of River Ganga is lighted with thousands of diyas and crowded with pilgrims. This utsav is celebrated every year in the holy city of Varanasi. The festivities can also be witnessed in Gujarat and other northern states of India. In the Indian state of Maharashtra, Dev Diwali is observed on the first day of the month of ‘Margashirsh’. Dev Diwali is commemorated to honour the victory of Lord Shiva over the demon named ‘Tripurasur’. For this reason, this festival is also known as ‘Tripurotsav’. The festival of Dev Diwali coincides with Guru Nanak Jayanti and Jain light festival.

Rituals of Dev Diwali:

The main ritual of Dev Diwali is the lighting of diyas after seeing the moon. The steps of every ghats of River Ganga, right from southernmost Ravidas Ghat to Rajghat, are illuminated with millions of diyas lit in honour of Goddess Ganga and other presiding devas.

The devotees get up early on the day of Dev Diwali and perform the ‘Kartik snan’, that is a ritual of taking a dip in the holy Ganges). They perform ‘deepdan’ (offering oil lamps) in the honour of Goddess Ganga. Following this ‘Ganga aarti’ is performed by 24 Brahmin Priests along with 24 girls, with full devotion.

On this occasion of Dev Diwali, people decorate their houses with oil lamps. Colourful designs or rangoli are made on the front doors. In several houses in Varanasi, ‘Akhand Ramayana’ is organized along with offering bhogs.

In the evening, on the streets of Varanasi, huge processions of beautifully decorated deities are taken out with full enthusiasm. The night sky is lit up with the lights of the firecrackers. After the event, dance performances and cultural programmes by famous personalities of Varanasi also takes place.