We begin our drive from Kathmandu to Dhulikhel (28 KM) by 8 am and it takes about one hrs to reach Dhulikhel bazaar. The Dhulikhel to Namo Buddha hiking is one of those hidden gems in Nepal. Situated very close to Kathmandu, it is a world apart. Dhulikhel is a beautiful city on a bluff overlooking the snowcapped peaks of the High Himalayas to the north. Along the hiking, you will see the splendid view of countryside along the farm landscapes. You will have an opportunity to pass a village and can interact with locals and students in primary school.
Dhulikhel is an ancient Newari city with several interesting Hindu Temples. We will explore them with our guide as we follow along with the trail. The trail is not difficult as we walk for four hours to Namo Buddha where we will have lunch as well as an opportunity to explore the Gumba (Buddhist Monastery) before returning back to Kathmandu.
Namo Buddha is sacred to the Buddhists because it is said that here Lord Buddha in a previous life sacrificed himself in order to allow a hungry tigress to feed her young cubs. It ranks as one of the three holy Buddhist sites in the Kathmandu Valley, along with Boudhanath and Swayambhu.
The grounds of Namo Buddha are both beautiful and serene. The local monastery here is both pleasant and peaceful. The atmosphere makes it ideal for meditation as you look out over the Himalayas. The return trip to Kathmandu from Namo Buddha (48KM) is by private vehicle and we return about 4 pm at thehotel. The total hiking duration is four hours including a lunch stop.
