INSIDE HIMALAYAS | NEPAL | TIBET | BHUTAN
Guided walks and hiking
Several of the homestays are located within prime hiking territory . The Nagarkot Community Homestays are close to jungles and waterfalls , making for good day hikes . At Palpa , don ’ t miss the sunrise views from Shrinagar Hill . The recently opened Panauti to Sanga Community Hike is a comfortable but exhilarating day hike through Tamang villages , and is an ideal excursion to incorporate into a stay in Panauti . Even in the more urban areas like Patan ( south of central Kathmandu ) you will be guided through the old backstreets and hidden courtyards of the atmospheric ancient city .
If you ’ re looking for more of a challenge , the Annapurna Community Trek is an ideal combination of classic Nepal trekking and homely comforts . The five-day trek starts at Galeshwor — five kilometres from Beni , in the Myadgi District of the Annapurna Himalayas — and passes through Bhanskharka , Nangi , Mohare Danda and Tikot . It goes through very similar terrain as the more popular Poon Hill trek . In fact , from just below the highest point of Mohare Danda , Poon Hill is visible . But the Annapurna Community Trek has the advantage of housing trekkers entirely in homestays and community-run lodges . Even in the peak trekking season you are likely to have the trails all to yourself , which cannot be said for the betterknown trekking routes around Nepal .
Jungle safaris
In the Chitwan-area homestays you will , of course , have a chance to enter the Chitwan National Park on a safari . This park has run an incredibly successful rhino conservation project , and you are practically guaranteed to see at least one of the enormous and magnificent animals in the park . Bird watchers will also be in heaven , as there are numerous species of colourful and more camouflaged birds to look out for . Jeep safaris are the safest way to get close to the rhinos . You can also go on a sunset cruise along the river , to spot the rare , thin-snouted gharial crocodile and enjoy the peaceful scenery .
Join in local festivals
Nepal has so many cultural festivals happening throughout the year , most of which are rooted in Hindu and Buddhist traditions . The best-known festivals are Tihar , Dashain and Holi , which coincide with the peak seasons in autumn and spring . However , these are far from the only festivals in Nepal , and with only a little bit of planning you can coincide a stay at a Community Homestay with a fascinating festival . For example , during Teej , married women traditionally dress in red and celebrate their married life by dancing and singing together . During Buddha Jayanti , Buddhists celebrate the birth of Siddharth Gautama Buddha . Celebrating such festivals at a local household will definitely enhance the experience .
34 www . insidehimalayas . com | By Royal Mountain Travel