By the way, the trail to Balthali was also mentioned as one of the ten best short treks in the world by Lonely Planet. [break]
Getting there
You can take a public bus from Kathmandu’s Old Bus Park to Dhulikhel, and from Dhulikhel board another bus to Namo Buddha. If you choose to take a private vehicle, you can reach the Namo Buddha in two hours.
From Namo Buddha, the hike to Balthali is around three hours. The quite village which rests at the junction of Roshi and Ladku Khola (rivers) is a typical Nepali countryside with terraced rice fields and ochre thatched farm houses.
From Balthali, it takes around another two hours of downhill walk to get to Khopasi, from where you can board a bus to Kathmandu. In case of private vehicles, you’ll need a driver who can pick you up at Khopasi at the end of the hike.
Bare essentials
A day bag
Water bottle
Sunglasses
Sun-block cream
Hat/cap
Reasonable walking shoes
Light warm jacket
Windcheater
Light snacks
An extra pair of clothes
Packed lunch
Hike level
This is an easy to moderate hike. But the hike can be a bit demanding at times due to steep uphill and downhill inclines at certain places.
Hike highlights
The Balthali village is an ideal place for lovers of isolation and relaxation from crowded city circuits. You can experience the rich culture of Newar as well as Tamang communities in the village. The village also provides special and spectacular views of sunrise and sunset, with the lush Mahabharat Range spreading against the background of the village.
The beautiful village is also the best place for nature lovers and bird watchers. It also serves its patrons with bird’s eye view of green terraced fields and magnificent views of the Himalayan ranges. Snowy peaks of Dorjee Lhakpa and Langtang are some of the mountains that rest on the northern horizon of Balthali.
The trail also follows many of the sacred and ancient temples and monasteries, such as Namo Buddha, the Indreshwar Mahadev Temple and Brahmayani Temple.
It is also one of the easier and shorter hiking destinations around Kathmandu Valley and is also considered as one of the best routes for mountain biking.
Weather
The weather is similar to that of Kathmandu Valley but you should be prepared for windy chills.
Information courtesy:
socialtours, Tridevi Marg, Thamel
For details: call 4412508, or email at info@socialtours.com
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