Dolpo
Surrounded by high mountain ranges Dolpo remains one of the few forbidden border regions of Nepal. The last vestiges of traditional Tibetan culture can be found in this visually stunning region of high plateaus and striking landscapes. Here are some of the highest settlements on earth where the villagers grow their crops of barley and herd their yaks. You will travel over several high passes to Inner Dolpo with its stunning lake. First opened to trekkers in 1992, this route will appeal to those seasoned travelers in search of an authentic Himalayan experience.
Dolpo is a remote region of Nepal and the focal point of this area is the stunning Shey Phoksundo National Park. The noteworthy figures seen here are the immaculate snowy peaks, ancient and isolated villages, rich wildlife, and wonderful lakes. Trekking into this region gives an exposure to the high and isolated Himalayan valleys, resembling the Tibetan highlands.
Mustang
Even those who have trekked in the Himalayas before often confess that they were not prepared for the magnificence of the land they trekked through in Mustang. Situated on the border of Nepal and Tibet, it's open to only a few select trekking groups each season. Thanks to regulated tourism, the vista of this part of northern Nepal remains relatively undisturbed. It has helped Mustang preserve its essence. The trek follows established trails through substantial villages that once served a thriving trade route between Nepal and Tibet.
These white washed settlements, set amid fields of barley and home to simple monasteries, reflect the abiding Buddhist culture. Mustang, after all was the former Kingdom of Lo in northern Nepal. It's also the home to one of the world's great archaeological mysteries. In this dusty, wind-savaged place, hidden within the Himalayas and cleaved by the Kali Gandaki River, are approximately 10,000 human-built caves. In the mid-1990s, archaeologists began exploring the stacked caves and found several dozen bodies, all at least 2,000 years old.
Daman
This is a place recommended for people who are longing for a peaceful and tranquil vacation. This is a village located at the center of Nepal, 80 kilometers south west of the Kathmandu valley at an altitude of about 2,400m on the Tribhuvan highway in between Kathmandu and the town of Birgunj. So it isn't inconveniently off route, however, just far enough to properly escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It's an isolated place away from the city crowd that is sure to delight nature lovers. It also proves to be an ideal location for people who are fond of mountain climbing, biking, trails or those who want to enjoy walks around the lovely hilly area.
Also famous in this place is the Tibetan Buddhist monastery situated at a 30 minute walk from the village. Decorated with many prayer flags, a visit to the monastery makes for a breathtaking experience. The monastery, along with other worshipping sites such as Indra Sarobor and the Rishikeshwor Mahadev temple, is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year.
Marpha
Marpha is a small village along the Kali Gandaki River, in the Annapurna Conservation Area in central Nepal. The village clings tenaciously to the barren landscape and is surprisingly beautiful. Marpha is notable for its many-storied old stone houses, built by hand without mud or mortar, and for the delicious apples grown in the lush valley that snakes between the Nilgiri and Dahlugiri Himalayan ranges.
Visitors will find that there are lots of things to explore here. From climbing the ridge to the west of town to the original settlement of Old Marpha to getting a firsthand experience of their intriguing culture at places like the famous Nyingma Buddhist gompa. Like all the buildings in Marpha, the gompa too is painted in whitewash produced from local stones. If you have time, take in the views of the town from the ochre-painted, natural stone chorten on the mountainside north of the town as well. Rest assured every turn of this apple capital's cobblestoned road will bring opportunities to make many wonderful memories.
Kagbeni
Kagbeni is a Tibetan trading town situated in the Kali Gandaki valley. The valley was an important trading route between India and Tibet. The outpost town is an excellent short detour from the shorter route from Jomsom to Muktinath on the popular Annapurna circuit trek. But despite being the route to more popular destinations, Kagbeni is worth a visit.
A maze of alleyways and hidden doorways give this town a charming intimate feeling. This place retains its medieval feel with its narrow, covered flagstone alleys, antique chortens, and important monasteries perched above the town. As you wander through the town, look for the clay effigies of the village protectors as well. They are very popular and unique to the region.
One can also pay a visit to Kagchode Thubten Sampheling gompa, a Sakyapa monastery which was founded in the 14th century. The main hall holds some fine festival masks and kangling (trumpets), as well as a 500-year-old text written in gold. Kagbeni has proven to be fascinating find for many.
Information Courtesy: Social Tours, Thamel
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