Transfer from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur via Manav Sewa Ashram to Bhaktapur Durbar Square for mask painting workshop with sightseeing tour of Bhaktapur-back to Hotel-Evening orientation walk from Ason to Kathmandu Durbar Square
As we exit Kathmandu Metropolitan city at Koteshor, we take the Arniko Highway all the way to Bhaktapur. On the way, we will make short visit to Manav Sewa Ashram, where the travelers can donate uncooked food supplies to the needy people. [Please note: it is only allowed to donate food supplies but, not clothes, because they do have their own dress.] After visit, driving along the concrete buildings on each side of the highway curvy roads towards Koteshor, entering the City of Devotees `Bhaktapur. And visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a museum of medieval art and architecture with many examples of sculptures, woodcarvings and colossal pagoda temples consecrated to different gods and goddesses. Witness a unique culture here, and admire some of the finest displays of craftsmanship.
Experience Overview
A day experience for mask making can be a fascinating and immersive journey into the traditional art form. It’s a hands-on experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the traditional craft and gain a deeper understanding of the art form.
Your day begins with an introduction to the art of mask making. You will be greeted by skilled artisans who have dedicated their lives to preserving this traditional craft. They will provide you with a brief history of mask making, its cultural significance, and the techniques involved. The artisan will then guide you through the process of mask painting.
The first step is to apply a layer of white clay as the base coat. The artisans will demonstrate the process of preparing and applying the clay evenly on the mask. Let the clay dry, then you will move onto the most exciting part – painting the mask. The artisans will guide you to use the color palette and the significance of different colors. You’ll learn about the intricate patterns, motifs, and symbols used in mask painting. Finally you will add finishing touches to your mask.
By the end of the session, you will have your completed mask which builds up deeper appreciation for the artisans, its intricacy and skill required to create these beautiful artworks, you will be taking home the mask you just painted as a souvenir!
Includes:
Mold making: Fridays and Sundays, only demonstrations are shown.
Product
Duration: 1.5 hours
Buddha/Ganesh Mask
Description
Mask painting activity offers you a truly immersive experience into the world of traditional art and craftsmanship. It is an ancient and vibrant form of art that holds deep cultural and religious significance. Masks are an integral part of various religious and cultural rituals. Masks used in various festivals and ceremonies, and the colors used have symbolic meanings.
The Newars, an indigenous community in the Kathmandu Valley, have been practicing mask making and painting for centuries. They create intricate masks using various materials such as wood, clay, and papier-mâché. These masks are then adorned with vibrant colors, intricate designs, and sometimes even with semi-precious stones. In festivals, elaborately decorated masks representing deities, demons, and mythical creatures are paraded through the streets.
Led by a skilled artisan, this tour provides a unique opportunity to learn the ancient techniques of mask painting while gaining insights into the cultural significance of this art form. From selecting materials to carving and painting, you’ll be guided through each step of the process, creating your own personalized mask to take home as a cherished souvenir.
Mask making process:
The process of mask painting involves several steps. First, a skilled artisan carves the basic shape of the mask from the chosen material. The mask is then coated with a layer of white clay, which serves as a base. After the clay dries, the artist paints the mask using natural pigments derived from minerals, vegetables, and other organic sources.
Representation of colors:
Red represents power and energy, green symbolizes fertility and growth, while black is associated with protection and strength. The artists often use intricate patterns and motifs inspired by religious stories, mythological characters, and traditional symbols.
Challenges:
Over the years, traditional mask painting is facing many challenges due to changing cultural dynamics and modernization. However, there are still artisans and communities dedicated to preserving this ancient art form. Efforts are being made to pass on the skills and techniques of mask making and painting to future generations to ensure the continuity of this rich cultural heritage.
Bhaktapur Sightseeing with guide:
Originally to service the old trade route between Tibet and India, the city was formed in the 12th century around Tachupal Tol, the oldest part of the city. Between the 14th and 16th centuries, Bhaktapur was at its heyday, more powerful than any of the other Valley kingdoms. Once the capital of the Valley, Bhaktapur is the most unchanged of the three cities of Kathmandu and Patan. Retaining something of its medieval atmosphere, Bhaktapur embodies the essence of the Newari city. It is another of the five important World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley; a real ‘must see’ place.
The city’s architecture and organization remain an excellent example of town planning. Neighborhoods, roughly organized by caste, are centered on a main square with a public water source, temples and a Ganesh shrine. In the 12th century, the King of Banepa moved his capital here and ruled a unified Valley for the next three centuries. It was the last of the cities to fall to Prithvi Narayan Shah in 1768, since then its importance diminished considerably.
Made up of three large squares, each are filled with temples showing some of the finest architecture in Nepal. Surrounded by countryside, local people here are predominantly farmers, if not engaged in the traditional crafts of pottery, metalwork, art and woodwork.
After your sightseeing of Bhaktapur, in the evening, We start tour of Kathmandu Durbar Square from south west end of the area , while walking past one of the oldest school in the valley- Paropakar School to Kathmandu Durbar Square. We encounter first temple- Bhimsen Temple – a 03 storey rectangular structure with gilded roofs stands next to a sunken stone water fountain and temple houses statues of Bhimsen the patron god of merchants. From here it is about 10 minutes walk to Durbar Square. In Kathmandu Durbar Square we see Ashok Binayak temple, Famous Kumari Temple Gaddhi Baithak, Nine storey temple , Sweta Bhairab temple, Hanuman statue , Kal Bhairav – the ferocious form of Lord Shiva, Taleju Temple . Then we continue walking to Indra Chowk , Itumbahal, Janbahal and continue walking through old part of city – Ason Chowk , finally pick up by vehicle for next destination.
Transfer from Kathmandu to Pokhara with visit to Manakamana Temple transfer to Hotel/evening boating at Phewa Lake
The distance between Kathmandu and Pokhara is around 205 Km and driving hours approximately around 6 hours. Leaving Kathmandu city on one of the country’s busiest road may be slow, but as we leave the city on the Tribhuwan National Highway, the views are impressive. For first hour of the drive, the road are winding and downhill and then continue along the Trishuli River. As we cross the Mugling Bridge, our drive passes through Marshyangdi Hydroelectric Powerhouse as well as villages with typical Nepalese house backed by steep rice terrace and mountain beyond. As we approach Pokhara Valley, we will again be welcomed mighty Annapurna Range Himalayas and Seti River.
On the way, you stop at Manakamana Cable Car Stop point at Kurintar to take a cable car ride along the incredibly steep ascent to the ancient Manakamana Temple right at the top of the hill.
After reaching Pokhara, in the evening, take a boat across the Phewa Tal which is Nepal’s second largest lake and you can walk or cycle around it, fly over it, paragliding off the hill at Sarangkot.
Early morning visit to Sarangkot excursion-Half day visit of Pokhara city (Gupteshwor Mahadev Temple, Tibetan Refugee Camp, Bindabashini Temple, Devi’s fall). After sightseeing, visit Children Welfare organization “Children Nepal” and evening momo cooking course at Tashiling Tibetan Homestay
In the early morning, you visit Sarangkot, which is the small hilltop famous for its magnificent view of sunrise and Annapurna range and Fishtail. Most people come here at dawn or dusk, when the sun picks out the peaks in brilliant colours. Early in the morning our driver shall pick you at your hotel which shall be 30 minutes drive to reach Sarangkot for the breath taking view of sunrise with Annapurna range and sightseeing of the Sarangkot hill. After the sightseeing, the drive will bring you back to Pokhara. The time duration for this trip shall be 2.5 hours approx.
Afternoon visit, Devi’ fall is a water fall located at Pokhara and is normally included in half day tour of Pokhara city. The water forms a tunnel after reaching the bottom. The tunnel is approximately 500 feet long and runs 100 feet below ground level. On 31st July 1961, a swiss couple went swimming but the woman drowned in a pit because of the over flow. Her body was recovered 03 days late in river Phusre with great effort. Her father wished to name it “David’s fall” after her but changed to Devi’s fall. In Nepali the name is Patle Chango, which means ‘underworld waterfall’. This place is one of the most visited places in Pokhara.
Visit to Bindabasini Temple – the oldest temple in Pokhara city. It attracts a large number of locals, Nepalis form across the country and foreigners alike. The main temple is devoted to goddess Bindabasini , a Bhagwati , who is the incarnation of kali. There are also smaller temples of goddess Saraswati, Shiva, Hanuman, Ganesh in the premises. The temple is situated atop a small hill and can be accessed via stone staircases on the East and North East. The views of the Himalayas from the North of the temple are breathtaking while from the south one can see the expanse of Pokhara city. Depending upon the season, one may have chance to witness the marriage ceremony going on in the place.
This is included in half day tour of Pokhara city. About 03 kms south of Lake side, on the road to Butwal and near Devi’s fall, is the smaller settlement of TashilIng. Near the entrance of the camp is a small open space where handicraft purveyors set up stalls and entice visitors to part with cash. There is also a small Tibetan carpet factory, where Tibetan carpet weaving technique can be witnessed and there is also a carpet showroom in the premises.
This is included in half day tour of Pokhara city and one of the major attraction in Pokhara. Gupteswor Mahadev Cave is a cave located in Pokhara – opposite to Davis Fall. The water from Davis fall passes through this cave. The cave is considered sacred which has statue of a Lord Shiva inside . Several Spiral stone steps leads to the cave from the Surface, near Siddhartha Highway.
After your Pokhara city sightseeing you will be visiting CHILDREN-Nepal (CN), a non-profit organization that works to promote the rights, welfare and development of children, youth, and their families living on the margins of society. CN works directly with children, youth and their families by offering programs and services that help them break away from the effects of discrimination, exploitation and violence based on their caste, disability, gender and/or social status. Along with your visit to the organization, you will have the opportunity to join in a Handicraft workshop with local women.
Momos or Dumplings are more than a dish in Nepal; it is a way of life. Like any other type of dumpling, it is a meat or vegetable filling wrapped in dough. It is bite-sized and usually served with dipping sauce. It is a sheer delight when you bite into the savory fillings of a Momo. Not only eating Momos is a delight, but the process of making them is a unique and fun experience. It is a wonderful group activity perfect for family gatherings. Everyone can do their part in the whole process of momo making. So make sure you enjoy every step of cooking this mouthwatering cuisine. You can’t help but drool on the thought of having it again, so you can do it yourself at home.
Transfer to Chitwan with visit to “Standup 4 Elephants”
From Pokhara, you drive along Prithvi Highway to the dense forest and fertile lowlands of Sauraha. This place is known as a gateway to sprawling Chitwan National Park, across the Rapti River, with rhinos, tigers, and crocodiles inhabiting its tropical forests, and where the indigenous Tharus reside. It is the popular town which lies in the edge of Chitwan National Park. It is also a tourist destination among foreigners and domestic tourist. Sauraha lies in the southern part of Nepal in Chitwan District of Bagmati Province. Sauraha is the entry point of Chitwan National Park which is renowned for Jungle Safari Tour in Nepal. Sunset from the bank of Rapti river is one of the best things you can see in Sauraha. October to April is the best time to visit.
However, before transferring to hotel in Chitwan, you will be driven to visit Stand Up 4 Elephants (SU4E) is an NGO working at “Khumroj” Chitwan, NEPAL for the welfare of captive asian elephants, their mahouts and the community. The organizations engage directly with the local community, aiming to demonstrate alternative & sustainable ways of looking after elephants and protect their environment.
Please note: [The NGO allows visitors every day at 2:00 PM for 2 hours (closed on Saturdays).
After your visit to SU4E, drive to Chitwan (Sauraha) which, is the popular town lies in the edge of Chitwan National Park. It is also a tourist destination among foreigners and domestic tourist which, lies in the southern part of Nepal in Chitwan District of Bagmati Province. It is the entry point of Chitwan National Park.
Half day jeep safari (Sharing Basis), Birdwatching tour, Cooking course and Meal with Tharu
After breakfast start your day by touring the national park in a jeep is a must do activity while you are in Chitwan. You can keep your eyes open for rhinos, tigers, deer, and birds, with an open-topped jeep. You can feel the breeze, listen to the sounds of the animals, and drive with the best views of the jungle, Narayani River. The Jeep safari is one of the best ways of spotting a wide range of wildlife, including enormous one-horned rhinoceros, elusive Royal Bengal Tigers, various deer, wild boar, wild elephants, striped hyenas, pangolin, and a multitude of birds. You are accompanied by an expert naturalist who shall guide you the best places to look, animals’ behaviour and their habitat. Your route through the park may depend on the season and the weather.
Either early morning or late afternoon would be a great time to spot about 500 different species of birds in the Chitwan area. With an expert Naturalist guide, your approx. 2-hour bird-watching trip around grassland rivers, lakes and forest will be very exciting and will teach you a lot about the birds.
One of the most authentic experiences you can have in Nepal is to take a cooking class with locals. You can learn about their culture through culinary traditions. Your host will give you insights of their traditions and cultural aspects of their lives, and about their food culture and various spices that adds into the ingredients. You will learn to make a local delicacy and understand what makes the food taste so unique. You are greeted by the host family and you can have a wonderful experience in their home. You’ll learn new skills to remember and practice once you return home.
Transfer back to Kathmandu with stopover at Bandipur transfer to Hotel
You will leave the lowlands, climbing into the Central Hills to join the Prithvi Highway at Mugling. It is then a slow journey towards the east for approx. 6 hrs along the busiest highway to Kathmandu. It is however a scenic route with steep rice terraces making a dramatic backdrop to the river, funeral pyres, suspension bridges and villages.
Stopover at Bandipur, which is a small town, nestling on a ridge 1,030m above sea level, up above the main highway that links Kathmandu to Pokhara. It is a historic Newar settlement, going back to when it was on an important trade route from Tibet to India. Originally a small Magar village, Newars from Bhaktapur in the Kathmandu Valley came two hundred years ago to settle here. Bringing their rich art and culture, many of the buildings in Bandipur can be seen with their fine woodwork and intricate brickwork. Bandipur has lots to offer. As well as being a perfect place to break the journey between Kathmandu and Pokhara or Chitwan, it is an ideal place to relax, get away from the crowds and enjoy the beautiful views. Nature trails and magnificent caves, including the Siddha Cave, maybe the largest in the Himalaya can be found here. Surrounded by forested hillsides, in season, up to 24 different types of orchids can be seen here. May to June is the best time to sight these beautiful plants in bloom.
After Short visit to Bandipur, you will continue your drive back to Kathmandu, a diverse, historic city with amazing architecture, exquisite wood carvings and metal craft which showcase the skills of the Newar artisans of centuries ago. Hinduism and Buddhism have co-existed in Kathmandu valley from time immemorial and the valley residents make a little distinction as they worship in both Hindu and Buddhist shrines. Kathmandu is a city where ancient traditions are zealously guarded while at the same time embracing modern technology.
