Durgadatt Pandey @ Nepal is an independent nation adjacent to India, nestled in the picturesque embrace of nature’s valleys. Its lifestyle is deeply intertwined with that of India’s, reflecting a historical and cultural kinship. In ancient times, Nepal was considered an integral part of India, both geographically and culturally, a notion echoed even during the era of the Mahabharata.
Nepal’s history has been significantly shaped by Indian empires, yet it stands as a unique entity in South Asia, having successfully resisted British colonialism. Today, one can delve into Nepal’s rich history through various sources.
Our journey to Nepal commenced from the Sonauli border of India. Upon crossing the border, we promptly fulfilled the customs requirements for our vehicles, paying a fee of 350 Nepalese rupees per day for the duration of our travel. Notably, if traveling only up to Butwal, this process suffices. However, venturing further necessitates obtaining a temporary permit, for which an additional fee of 300 Nepalese rupees per day applies. This administrative procedure can be managed independently or facilitated by local assistants for a nominal fee of 100 rupees.
Also read: Lok Sabha Election 2024: PM Modi Makes History With ‘206 Rallies, 80 Interviews’ In Campaign Blitz
A recommended pitstop along the journey is Tansen, a charming hill station situated at an altitude of 1350 meters. The stretch from Butwal to Pokhara, spanning a mere 180 kilometers, poses a challenging journey due to rugged terrain, consuming approximately 7-8 hours of travel time. Arriving in Tansen after an evening start, we resumed our expedition to Pokhara the following day at 5:00 am, reaching Hotel River Front by 11:00 am.
Pokhara captivates visitors with its breathtaking natural vistas, serene lakes, and majestic mountain peaks. Attractions such as the Pokhara Shanti Stupa, Sarangkot, and Phewa Lake, lined with shops and entertainment venues, evoke a reminiscent charm akin to Goa. Adventurous souls can partake in exhilarating activities like paragliding and cable car rides while traversing the area’s hanging bridge over the Gandaki River adds an element of thrill to the experience.
