Asura Cave, Pharping

Kirtipur is an ancient city located about 8 km south-west of Kathmandu, Nepal. It is a culturally and historically rich town with narrow alleys, traditional Newari houses, and temples dating back to the 17th century. Pharping, on the other hand, is a sacred site located about 19 km south of Kathmandu, Nepal. It is known for its monasteries and temples and is considered a pilgrimage site for Buddhists. A tour of these two places will take you on a journey through Nepal's rich cultural and religious heritage. The tour typically starts with a visit to the historic town of Kirtipur. Here, you will explore the narrow alleys and traditional Newari houses, visit the Bagh Bhairav temple, one of the oldest temples in Kirtipur, and the Uma Maheshwor Temple, a 17th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. After exploring Kirtipur, the tour then takes you to Pharping. Here, you will visit the Asura Cave, a sacred site where Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava, is believed to have meditated in the 8th century. You will also visit the Pharping Samye Ling Monastery, one of the largest monasteries in Nepal, and the Yangleshö Cave, where Guru Rinpoche is said to have attained enlightenment.

Pharping and Dakshinkali make for an intriguing day tour near Kathmandu, Nepal, offering a blend of spirituality, cultural richness, and natural beauty. Nestled in the hills about 19 kilometers southwest of Kathmandu, Pharping is a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The main attraction is the Dakshin Kali Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kali. The temple, adorned with intricate carvings and statues, stands as a testament to Nepal's religious diversity. Visitors can witness locals engaging in prayer and rituals, providing a glimpse into the vibrant spiritual practices of the region. Pharping is also home to the Asura Cave, where Guru Padmasambhava, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism, is said to have meditated. Pilgrims and curious tourists alike venture into the cave, absorbing the tranquil ambiance and reflecting on the spiritual significance of the site. A short distance from Pharping lies the Dakshinkali Temple, situated in a picturesque valley. Dedicated to the goddess Kali, this temple is a hub of religious fervor, particularly during the Dashain festival when sacrifices are made to appease the goddess. The temple's unique architecture and the surrounding natural beauty make it a compelling destination. The day tour to Pharping and Dakshinkali provides a holistic experience, allowing visitors to explore the cultural and religious facets of Nepal. The journey not only offers insight into the local traditions but also treats guests to panoramic views of the Himalayan landscape. In conclusion, a day tour to Pharping and Dakshinkali is a captivating journey into Nepal's spiritual and cultural heritage. From ancient temples to sacred caves and breathtaking scenery, this excursion promises a memorable encounter with the diverse tapestry of Nepalese life and beliefs.

Exploring the Spiritual and Natural Wonders of Pharping: A Day Trip to Asura Cave, Shesnarayan Temple, Gorakhnath Temple, Dakshinkali Temple, Taudha Lake, and Chobar Gorge! • Pharping: Pharping is a small town located about an hour from Kathmandu. It’s known for its spiritual and cultural significance, with many religious sites and natural beauty. It’s a major pilgrimage destination for both Buddhists and Hindus. • Asura Cave: Located above the village of Pharping, the Asura Cave is a sacred site where Guru Rinpoche, a revered Buddhist master, is said to have meditated and attained enlightenment. • Shesnarayan Temple: This ancient Hindu temple complex is located near Pharping and is one of the four Narayana temples of the Kathmandu Valley. It’s believed to have been built during the reign of the Licchavi king Vishnugupta. • Gorakhnath Temple: Located in the heart of Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh, India, this temple is closely associated with the teachings of Guru Gorakhnath, a revered saint and yogi within the Nath Sect. • Dakshinkali Temple: Located 22 kilometers outside Kathmandu and about 1 kilometer outside the village of Pharping, this is one of the major Hindu temples in Nepal dedicated to the goddess Kali. • Taudha Lake: This is the largest natural lake in the Kathmandu Valley. It’s a popular point of recreation and is also well known for being a bird sanctuary. • Chobar Gorge: This is the point of escape of water from the ancient lake that once existed where now the city of Kathmandu sits. It’s believed that the bodhisattva Manjushri cut a gorge at this place, allowing the lake’s water to drain off, thereby creating land that was duly occupied by people. Here’s a suggested itinerary for your day trip: 10:00 AM - Depart from Kathmandu • Start your day early and head towards Pharping which is about 19 km south of Kathmandu. 11:00 AM - Arrive at Pharping and visit Asura Cave • Spend about an hour exploring the Asura Cave. 11:30 AM - Visit Shesnarayan Temple • It’s a short walk from Asura Cave. Spend about 30 minutes here. 12:00 PM - Visit Gorakhnath Temple • This temple is also nearby. Spend about an hour here. 12:15 PM - Head to Dakshinkali Temple • It’s about a 30-minute drive from Pharping. Spend about 1.5 hours exploring the temple and surroundings. 1:00 PM - Lunch • Have lunch at one of the local restaurants. 1:30 PM - Drive to Taudaha Lake • It’s about a 30-minute drive from Dakshinkali Temple. Spend about an hour enjoying the serene environment. 2:00 PM - Visit Chobar Gorge • It’s a short drive from Taudaha Lake. Spend about an hour exploring the area. 3:00 PM - Return to Kathmandu • You should be back in Kathmandu by around 4:00 PM. Please note that these are estimated times and may vary depending on traffic and personal pace. Enjoy your trip!