Dhankuta | Janakpur | Kathmandu
The Road Less Taken
Dhankuta | Janakpur | Kathmandu
The Road Less Taken
Dhankuta | Janakpur | Kathmandu
The Road Less Taken
Dhankuta | Janakpur | Kathmandu
The Road Less Taken
The Road Less Taken
Trip Overview
Eastern Nepal remains a hidden gem, largely undiscovered by tourists and blessed with pristine, untouched nature. Beyond the bustling Kathmandu valley lie villages and towns waiting to be explored. These uncharted territories offer contrasting landscapes, unique lifestyles, and opportunities to connect with remote communities, providing a haven for those seeking authentic experiences.
Dhankuta, a picturesque hill town, boasts stunning views of Himalayan peaks and is renowned for its warm hospitality and rural way of life. Visitors can explore Cholung Park, showcasing traditional Limbu community houses, and immerse themselves in the indigenous Aathpahariya culture in Khambela and Sipting, experiencing Dhol Nach performances and traditional snacks.
Janakpur, founded atop ancient Videha dynasty ruins, is a revered religious center with its magnificent Janaki Mandir dedicated to Goddess Sita. Here, travelers can marvel at stunning Hindu-Koiri Nepali architecture, delve into Mithila art, and savor local cuisines at Mithila Thali by Chef Santosh Shah from Master Chef.
As you journey through the tranquil landscapes, immerse yourself in the rhythms of rural life, where time seems to slow down amidst the mountain air. Engage in heartfelt conversations with locals, gaining insight into their traditions, beliefs, and daily routines, deepening your connection to the communities you encounter. This trek offers a physical adventure and a profound cultural experience that leaves a lasting imprint on the soul.
Highlights Of The Road Less Taken
Explore the untouched natural beauty of Eastern Nepal, undiscovered by tourists.
Enjoy stunning views in Dhankuta, a hill town known for its warm hospitality and rural way of life.
The stunning Hindu-Koiri Nepali architecture at Janaki Mandir is dedicated to Goddess Sita.
Experience Mithila Art and their vibrant colors and artistic techniques
Immerse yourself in local life, learn traditional Newari cooking, and explore the ancient town of Panauti.
Ranjana Lipi and Aila experience with the local experts and a memento to take home.
Itinerary
KATHMANDU, Arrival
Activities
Upon arriving at Kathmandu airport, you'll be greeted with a personalized placard in the arrival hall. Your luggage will be taken care of and loaded into the car for your transfer to the hotel. After checking in, refresh yourself before heading to Avata for a sound healing session to ease jet lag, followed by a nutritious dinner at Nourish by Avata. Then, you'll be driven back to your hotel.
DHANKUTA
Activities
Following breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Biratnagar. On arrival at Biratnagar Airport, a vehicle will be ready to transfer you to Dhankuta. On the way, you will be able to observe the rich nature and beautiful landscapes.
Once you are checked in at the hotel, you will be going for a town walk of Dhankuta and observe the orange city, the architecture of the Newari and Aathpahariya communities, and the nearby Nishan Temple and holds significant religious importance for locals and visitors alike.
DHANKUTA
Activities
Wake up early in the morning, and you will take a short hike to Dhoje Danda. You can see the Makalu, Kumbhakarna, and Kanchenjunga ranges from here. After breakfast, you will be driving to Cholung Park, where you will see many of the Limbu community’s traditional houses and small museums that the community has been able to maintain in their own homes. Stop over to the rich tea garden of Dhankuta, where the representative will give you a tea factory tour- you will learn how tea is produced, processed, and packaged. Finish the tour by experiencing the distinct tastes of the teas produced in this area.
DHANKUTA
Activities
After breakfast, start your day with a scenic drive to Chuliban, then hike to Khambela. On the way, you will visit a tower with a great view of the Tamor and the Kanchenjunga ranges on a clear day. You will also find scattered houses along the way, all of which belong to the families of the indigenous Aathpahariya community. After a short excursion, you will drive back to Dhankuta, and in the evening, you will join Dhol Nach, showcased by the Aathpahariya community in Sipting. After the festivities, you will have dinner that the locals have prepared with traditional snacks and drinks.
JANAKPUR
Activities
Today, you will be traveling to Janakpur, where the infamous Janaki Temple and Mithila Art are massive highlights. Once you reach Janakpur, you will check in at the hotel and end your day with traditional cuisine in Mithila Thali by Chef Santosh Shah, who was declared the winner of MasterChef: The Professionals re-match in 2021.
PANAUTI
Activities
Begin your day by experiencing Mithila Art, where intricate designs, vibrant colors, and distinctive art techniques grab the viewers' attention from afar. After that, visit the Janaki Temple dedicated to Goddess Sita, an icon of religious and cultural significance at Janakpur. The temple showcases a blend of Hindu and Mughal styles.
You will continue moving towards Panauti Community Homestay after the brief excursion at Janaki Temple. The hosts will be ready to welcome you on your arrival. Panauti is a mix of old towns full of Newari architecture and temples. Going to the outskirts, you will find modern houses surrounded by farm fields. The women-led homestay of Panauti has been a leading example for many community homestays across Nepal.
PANAUTI
Activities
After breakfast, enjoy a countryside bicycle tour and ride through three indigenous towns: Panauti, Bhandari gaun and Khopasi. Explore small temples, peddle through potato fields, and cross a suspension bridge. And try a cup of Nepali masala tea before you return to the old town of Panauti.
Later in the day, help the hosts cook up a Newari feast where numerous local dishes are cooked to be served serially during gatherings. You will be able to observe the rich culinary heritage of the community. In the evening, dress like locals and be ready for a cultural program put together by the younger generation and feel free to add your flair. Right after the program, you will participate in the traditional Newar culture feast- Suku Bhwe
KIRTIPUR- KATHMANDU
Activities
As you bid farewell to your gracious hosts in Panauti, your journey takes you to Kirtipur, a treasure trove of Newari culture. This ancient town, nestled amidst the majestic mountains and the sprawling Kathmandu Valley, is a haven for the Newari community. Immerse yourself in their rich traditions, savor their delectable cuisine, and explore the city’s myriad temples and stupas, all in the company of your knowledgeable hosts.
You will learn to write an ancient Newari Script, Ranjana Lipi with an experienced instructor shortly after. Taste a local alcoholic drink ‘ Aila’ while learning to write the letters and enjoy a Newari Set meal, Samay Baji. This meal is a ‘must have’ in festivities for the Newari Communities. You will write using traditional bamboo pens with ink and enjoy delicious Newari cuisine. At the end, have a word of your choice in Ranjana script framed as a special memento.
You will be transferred to the Hotel in Kathmandu after this experience.
Impact Footprints
- Supports local economies through tourism, directly benefiting small towns and rural communities like Dhankuta and Panauti.
- Promotes cultural preservation by engaging tourists with traditional practices and crafts such as Mithila art and Ranjana Lipi.
- Fosters understanding and appreciation of local customs through immersive experiences like traditional cooking and dressing like a local.
- Encourages ecological awareness with visits to natural sites like Gurase Park and Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, highlighting the importance of conservation.
- Supports spiritual and historical preservation by visiting ancient and significant sites like Janaki Mandir and Barahakshetra.
- Enhances community development by involving local communities in hosting and cultural activities, providing them a platform to showcase their heritage.
- Aids in preserving endangered arts and practices by educating tourists on unique local skills and crafts.
- Provides a sustainable model of tourism that minimizes environmental impact by focusing on small group experiences and local transportation methods.
- Boosts women's empowerment through engagement with initiatives like the women-led Panauti Community Homestay, enhancing their social and economic status.
