The starting point, Sanga, is just outside the eastern edge of the Kathmandu Valley, and will be better known by most as the place with the tallest Shiva statue in the world. After a steep ascent for about half an hour, the hike mostly flattens out, taking walkers along ridgelines with steep drops below, views of rice fields and farmland, and–on clear days–unobstructed Himalayas.

We will conclude our hike in a Newar community, Panauti. It is a small, but a beautiful Newari town. Local folklore mentions Panauti was an offering from a King of Bhaktapur to his sister as a dowry gift. Surrounded by green hills and holy rivers, this spiritual town is full of Hindu and Buddhist temples. For such reasons, Panauti is considered as a hidden gem of Nepal.

Travel Tip: In Panauti, Enjoy a lunch in Panauti Community Homestay on your own additional expense. Established by the local women of Panauti, it is a paradigm of successful women empowerment/entrepreneurship in Nepal. It is a great opportunity to experience Nepalese local lifestyle, experience its authentic hospitality, taste the local food.