Kathmandu: Pharping, Dakshinkali and Chobhar Tour with Lunch

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!