Gorkha Durbar with Manakamana Temple Tour via Cable Car

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ID: GYG1198157-1838832
Category:
Country: Nepal

Duration: 2 days


Description

Explore the historical center of Nepal, royal heritage, hilltop scenes, and the religious importance of one of the most important Hindu places in Nepal.
Gorkha is the birthplace of King Prithvi Narayan Shah, the founder of modern Nepal, and the home to the legendary Gorkha warriors whose courage and strength are celebrated around the world. Perched on a ridge overlooking the town, Gorkha Durbar is a historical palace-fortress of Nepal that reflects the era of unification of Nepal, traditional architecture and spiritual heritage of Nepal and offers glimpse into the life of the erstwhile royal family of Nepal.

The tour begins with a scenic drive through Kathmandu to Gorkha with rivers, terraced hills and traditional villages on the way. On the arrival, you will visit Gorkha Durbar and its temples, which are Gorkhanath and Gorakhkali with a panoramic view of the Himalayas with Manaslu and Annapurna. A stroll through the grounds of the palace and the surrounding streets will give you an idea of the rich cultural heritage of this area. You can find craftsmen practicing centuries-old crafts, villagers conducting their daily rituals and farmers working in terraced fields.

You might be able to see some of the colorful local festivals such as the Dashain or Tihar, with houses and temples lit up and traditional dances and celebrations taking place with the people which will give you an idea of the life, faith, and traditions of the people. Following a day of history, culture and spirituality you will spend the night in a nice local lodge immersing yourself in the unique ambiance of this small hill town.

The following day, the journey proceeds to Manakamana Temple, among the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites in Nepal, said to grant the wish of the devotees. You will reach the temple through a cable car and have a wonderful view of rivers, forests and hills all around. You may find pilgrims performing at the hilltop sanctuary, making offerings, performing rituals, and in the event that you visit around a festival, you might find the temple bustling with color, music, and devotion.

This gives one a profound insight into the religious life that is an integral part of Nepalese culture and how the people celebrate their tradition along with their daily life in great harmony. After this spiritual experience, the tour terminates with a relaxing drive back to Kathmandu.

This 2-day tour is the perfect combination of history, culture, festivals, and spirituality for those who want to explore the royal past of Nepal, the warmth of its people, its colorful local traditions, its breathtaking landscapes, and its sacred places in a short but worthwhile trek. By the end of the tour, you will not only get an insight into the past and spiritual life of Nepal but also get to experience the living culture and festive spirit which continues to define the region.

Highlights

  • Visit historic Gorkha Durbar and know about the unification of Nepal
  • Have a panoramic view of the Himalayas at the hilltop
  • Travel to holy Manakamana Temple by scenic cable car

Guiding languages

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Clothing
The Gorkha Durbar hike requires comfortable walking shoes. Shoulders and knees should be covered by modest clothing, particularly when they visit temples.

Fitness Level
The trek to Gorkha Durbar contains rocky steps and moderate ascending. Only a minimum fitness level is needed and the speed is adjustable.

Duration
This is a 2-day tour. The average time spent on driving is 4-5 hours per direction.

Group Size
There is no minimum group size. The tour is normally privately held and it is favored by solo travelers, couples, family and small groups.

Meals
In Gorkha the hotel normally includes breakfast. Lunch and dinner are optional, and it is free to select local restaurants.

Cultural Etiquette
Photography is permitted, however, one must be respectful in temples. Never take pictures of local people or religious life without permission.
INCLUDED
  • Private vehicle transportation ( Kathmandu-Gorkha-Manakamana-Kathmandu)
  • One English speaking guide for the entire tour
  • 1 night accommodation at a local lodge in Gorkha
  • Cable car ticket to Manakamana Temple ( up and down)
  • Entrance fees for Gorkha Durbar
  • Driver allowance, fuel and parking
  • Drinking water during the trip
NOT INCLUDED
  • Lunch and dinner during the tour
  • Nepal visa fees and international flights
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Tips for guide, driver, or other staff ( optional)
  • Personal expenses

When should I book?

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.


Cancellations

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.