Balthali Village Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal that offers a combination of cultural and natural experiences. The trek usually takes around 3-4 days and takes visitors to the beautiful Balthali village, which is located about 40 km southeast of Kathmandu.
The trek starts from the town of Khopasi, which is located about 2 hours' drive from Kathmandu. From there, visitors will trek through several small villages and lush forests, with stunning views of the Himalayas along the way. The trek is relatively easy and suitable for trekkers of all ages and fitness levels.
Balthali village is a beautiful and peaceful village that offers stunning views of the Himalayas, including Langtang, Dorje Lakpa, and Gaurishankar. The village is surrounded by lush forests and terraced farmland, and visitors can experience the traditional lifestyle, culture, and hospitality of the Nepalese people.
During the trek, visitors can take a nature walk around the village and explore the beautiful surroundings, including the ancient temples and monasteries, which offer a glimpse into the local culture and religion. Visitors can also participate in traditional farming activities, such as plowing and harvesting, and learn about the local customs and traditions.
The best time to do the Balthali Village Trek is from September to November and from March to May when the weather is clear, and the skies are usually blue. During these months, the temperatures are also mild, making for ideal trekking conditions.
Overall, the Balthali Village Trek is an excellent option for those who want to experience trekking in Nepal and get off the beaten path of traditional tourist destinations. The trek offers a chance to experience the unique culture and traditions of Nepal's mountain villages, as well as the stunning natural beauty of the Himalayas.
Arriving at Kathmandu marks the beginning of your journey to Balthali Village trek. We, Friendship World Trek, will receive you at the Tribhuvan International airport and take you to your hotel in a private vehicle. You will also meet with your FWT guide, who will brief you about the trek. You will be spending your night in Kathmandu.
Kathmandu Valley is a microcosm of entire Nepal. Today, we will explore this ancient city rich in cultural heritage. You will visit UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath (the Monkey temple), Boudhanath, and historic Durbar Squares. As you relish these wonders, you will also get a brief insight into these places from our tour guide. After an entire day exploring Kathmandu, you will prepare for your trek that will start the next day.
After breakfast, we drive to ancient Changu Narayan (1500m) Temple vie Bhaktapur Durbar Square which is situated approximately 20 km east of Kathmandu city. Changunarayan is said to be the oldest temple of Kathmandu valley and is listed in the UNESCO World Heritage monument list. It is said to have been built by King Hari Dutta in 323 AD and said to be the oldest temple in the valley. Bhaktapur is an antique city of Nepal with many temples; Nyatpola, Bhairav temple and Pacpanna Jyale Durbar (55 window Palace) are main attractions, including Newari culture. We then Trek to Nagarkot (2175m). Walking through the pine forest along the ridge through the villages with splendid view of the valley and mountains we arrive at Nagarkot. It is one the most panoramic destinations of Nepal for landscapes, mountain views including Mt Everest, and magnificent sunrise and sun set views.
Stay overnight in hotel.
We wake-up early in the morning, to see sunrise and the Eastern Himalayan views including Mt. Everest, and many other mountains secondarily. Then after breakfast we start the trek to Dhulikhel (2100m). The trek leads to Dhulikhel, passing many pine forests and rice terraces, through the Nala village with many countryside activities. Dhulikhel is renowned for splendorous Himalaya views and for harboring many species of exotic birds. In addition the biggest attraction of Dhulikhel is the Newari culture and tradition.
We stay overnight at hotel in Dhulikhel.
Today, after having breakfast we start our journey toward to Namobudha (1982m), where the popular monastery is situated, religious people often visit here for meditation and praying. Later, we walk another three hours and reach the enchanting Balthali village offering excellent mountain views at an altitude of 1,730m. Balthali Village resort is certainly not an ordinary place as many hotels and resorts have mushroomed extensively over the years. It is a very simple, unconventional, yet comfortable retreat centre with full modern amenities of western style toilets and attached bath rooms, hot and cold shower, and tasty Nepalese traditional and organic cuisine is served at large by the friendly, hospitable and smiling local staff. The bar is fully stocked with local wines and native brews.
Stay overnight in Balthali Village Resort.
After breakfast, we take a leisurely walk to the thriving Newari village of Panauti. Panauti is wedged between the Punyamata and Roshi streams. Panauti is renowned for its Newari and their culture and tradition, Indreshwar Mahadev Temple and the beautiful landscapes and it harboring of many species of exotic birds that can be seen all around. Panauti forms the shape of a triangle with a serpent (naga) idol standing at each of its three corners to protect from floods. The pride of this place goes to the massive, three-tired Indreshwor Mahadev. Some authorities believe this to be the original structure that was raised here in 1294 AD, which would make it the oldest surviving in Nepal. The shrine area at the sacred confluence called the Khware’, is one of those tranquil spots that can intercept a dreamer for hours. On the way one can have an opportunity to come across lovely temples and interesting old houses, particularly beautiful areas, and some fourteenth century wooden temple struts. Having taken about six hours on foot journey, we drive to Kathmandu.
Overnight Stay at 3 star Hotel in Kathmandu
It is our day to explore this lively and exotic city. Our guide will take us to visit remaining unvisited UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Kathmandu valley and some other historically and culturally important places of the valley. Enjoy your last moments in Kathmandu with breakfast in a café or some souvenir shopping in the mall. It’s time to say farewell to Nepal. In the evening, a farewell with delights of Nepali cuisine.
Friendship World Trek will drop you off at the Tribhuvan International airport in a private vehicle based on your flight schedule. We hope that you will have enjoyed your trek to the fullest. Safe travels!
Included standard meal (Breakfast)