A spiritual getaway, far from the hustle and bustle of Thamel.
 Situated just 5 kilometres from the city, Boudhanath is one of the most revered Buddhist shrines in Nepal.

Boudhanath: a procession around the largest stupa in Nepal


Go into Gorkha town itself, which is one of the most historically interesting towns in Nepal.

The historic town of Gorkha

Do you want to see a wild tiger? Don't miss the Bardiya National Park, the place where your wish is most likely to be fulfilled.

Bardiya National Park, your best chance to see a tiger!

The Tharu villages around the Bardiya National Park

Annapurna

Vallée de Katmandou

Pisang

Manang

At 18km from Kathmandu, Pharping is a peaceful village that boasts a magnificent view of the Himalayas.

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Pharping is a Buddhist pilgrimage site. I must confess that I went there after I got stuck in traffic at Kathmandu; and after a few days in the capital I only had one wish: to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. 
The town is pretty and visited mainly for its two very beautiful Buddhist temples and the Asura cave, in which Padmasambhava achieved enlightenment. Incidentally, in this cave, many serene faced pilgrims - you won't find an attempt at poetry here - worshippers of Buddha characterised by their peaceful aura, leave offerings of tsok (blessed food) and candles; the atmosphere is welcoming and peaceful...And there you have it, a meaningful lesson in Zen in a few seconds, without even uttering a word! 
I made the round trip in a day, but I regret not having stayed the night. I suppose that once all the tourists have left, the site takes on another pace, more suitable for inner peace...Om mani padme hum!
I should add that I visited Nepal before the earthquake of 2015, so it is possible that it has changed a lot since then.

A pretty village in the Kathmandu Valley and a prime spot for Buddhists, or amateurs of this philosophy.

Even if it's not the most touristy place you'll visit during a <a href="/nepal/">trip to Nepal</a>, Pharping boasts extraordinary, panoramic views.
From the top of the hill the view of the Himalayas and the Kathmandu Valley is simply breathtaking. I suggest you come here from the capital. It's not just a breath of fresh air (literally!), it's also a great opportunity to meet Pharping's locals. It's an enriching experience and the best way to get a taste for local, farming life in a Nepalese village. Meeting wonderful people, breathing in stunning views...I loved the day I spent at Pharping, not least because it's so close to the capital.
 
 *After the devastating earthquakes that shook Nepal in April and May 2015 the country is slowly getting back on its feet. This article was written before these catastrophic events occurred.

At 18km from Kathmandu, Pharping is a peaceful village that boasts a magnificent view of the Himalayas.

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