Morning walk from Kapan Baluwakhani to Kapan Monastery and Jagdol Sahid Park

 Every day at 5 AM, I begin my morning walk from Kapan Baluwakhani, following a serene and refreshing trail that leads to Kapan Monastery and onward to Jagdol Sahid Park. This route is not only ideal for a morning walk but also perfect for a short day hike, especially for those looking to start their day with peace, nature, and a bit of exercise.

As you ascend towards Kapan Monastery, the peaceful surroundings and crisp morning air set the tone for a mindful start. Once you reach the top, you’re greeted with a breathtaking panoramic view of the Kathmandu Valley, surrounded by lush green hills. On clear days, the sunrise from this viewpoint is simply stunning

Continuing your walk towards Jagdol (Jhanda) Park, you pass through tranquil pine forests. The park itself is a quiet escape where locals come for morning workouts, walks, or simply to enjoy nature. The pine-scented air, chirping birds, and playful monkeys create a refreshing and lively atmosphere. You might spot monkeys jumping from tree to tree or quietly observing from the branches—adding a touch of wilderness to your walk. Just be mindful not to carry visible food, as they can get curious!

A highlight of this route is the opportunity to take a tea break around the Jagdol area. There are a few local tea shops near the park that serve tea, coffee, hot lemon, pani puri, and chatpate. Among them, I highly recommend the tea shop run by Jagdol Yuba Club. Nestled within the pine trees, this spot offers a clean, friendly environment and is popular among regular walkers. One of the best things about this place is their complimentary glass of warm water—a thoughtful gesture that adds to the overall hospitality.

Whether you're a resident or a visitor, this morning trail offers a beautiful blend of nature, spirituality, and local culture. It’s a simple yet fulfilling way to begin your day.

Pikey Peak Trek - Hidden Gem for Himalayan Views (4060m)

If you're looking for a short and off-the-beaten-path trek in Nepal with jaw-dropping Himalayan panoramas, the Pikey Peak Trek is one of the best newly opened trekking routes—perfect for both Nepali domestic travelers and international trekkers.

Located in the lower Solu region of the Everest area, Pikey Peak offers a 360° panoramic view of the world’s highest mountains, including:

• Mt. Everest (8,848m)

• Makalu (8,481m)

• Lhotse (8,516m)

• Kanchenjunga (8,586m)

• Ama Dablam (6,812m)

• Manaslu (8,163m)

• Gaurishankar, Numbur, Langtang range, and Annapurna range

Named after a local Sherpa deity, Pikey Peak (4,060m) is also known for its stunning Sunrise and sunset views  s, as well as its rich Sherpa culture, monasteries, and rhododendron forests.

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Option 1: Dhap – Pikey Peak – Phaplu (Short & Easy Trek)

Duration: 4 to 5 days
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best for: Time-limited trekkers and domestic tourists

Itinerary Overview:

• Day 1: Kathmandu – Drive to Dhap – Trek to Jhapre
  Drive (7–8 hrs) via Sindhuli- Okhaldhunga; short trek to Jhapre (2,820m). Great view of Numbur Himal.

• Day 2: Jhapre – Trek to Pikey Base Camp (3,640m)
  Pass through rhododendron forests and yak pastures.

• Day 3: Pikey Base Camp – Early morning hike to Pikey Peak (4,060m) – Trek to Loding or Phaplu
  Witness the sunrise over Everest and other peaks. Continue to Loding or trek further to Phaplu.

• Day 4: Phaplu – Drive back to Kathmandu
  Long drive (8–9 hrs) or take a flight from Phaplu (if available).

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Option 2: Jiri – Pikey Peak – Phaplu (Cultural Route)

Duration: 7 to 8 days
Difficulty: Moderate
Best for: Cultural experience, monastery visits, and gradual altitude gain

Itinerary Overview:

• Day 1: Kathmandu – Drive to Jiri (1,900m)
  Scenic drive (7–8 hrs) through green hills and traditional villages.

• Day 2: Jiri – Trek to Shivalaya (1,800m)
  Gentle hike through terraced farmland and rivers.

• Day 3: Shivalaya – Trek to Bhandar (2,190m)
  Steep climbs and beautiful views of Rolwaling Himal.

• Day 4: Bhandar – Trek to Goli Gumba (2,950m)
  Visit historic monasteries and Sherpa villages.

• Day 5: Goli Gumba – Trek to Pikey Base Camp
  Climb gradually through pine and rhododendron forests.

• Day 6: Base Camp – Hike Pikey Peak (4060m) – Trek to Jumbesi
  Enjoy sweeping Himalayan vistas; descend to Jumbesi village.

• Day 7: Explore Jumbesi & Tupten Chholing Monastery – Trek to Phaplu
  Visit a large Tibetan monastery and interact with monks.

• Day 8: Phaplu – Drive back to Kathmandu
  Return journey via road or take a short domestic flight.

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Highlights of the Pikey Peak Trek:

• Unbeatable sunrise/sunset views over eight 8,000m peaks

• Less crowded trails compared to Everest Base Camp

• Sherpa culture and monasteries (like Tupten Chholing in Jumbesi)

• Rhododendron forests (March–May)

• Authentic homestay & teahouse experience

• Flexible access routes via Dhap, Phaplu, or Jiri

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 Best Season to Visit Pikey Peak

• Spring (March to May): Rhododendrons in bloom, clear skies

• Autumn (September to November): Best mountain views, dry and stable weather

• Winter (December to February): Less crowded, but cold and possibly snowy

• Monsoon (June to August): Lush greenery but clouds may obstruct views

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Useful Tips for Trekkers:

• Permits Needed:

  • No restricted area permit required

  • Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) may be required

  • Local entrance fee (can be arranged in Phaplu or Jiri)

• Accommodation:

  • Teahouses and homestays are available along the trail

  • Bring a sleeping bag for warmth, especially in off-season

• Transportation Options:

  • Private jeeps or shared vehicles to Dhap, Jiri, or Phaplu

  • Flights available to/from Phaplu (weather-dependent)

SEO and Digital Marketing Courses by Sherpa Samja -Mapya Dudhakoshi

 Sherpa Samja Mapya Dudhkoshi, a non-profit organization from the Solukhumbu district, has organized a 30-day SEO and Digital Marketing Course. The course began on 19th June 2025 at Aadim National College, located in Chuchepati, Chabahil, Kathmandu.

Approximately 25 students are participating in this digital marketing course. The primary aim of the organization is to provide knowledge about digital marketing concepts to the younger generation and individuals involved in Nepal's travel and tourism industry.

The course is being coordinated by the President of Sherpa Samja Mapya, Mr. Pasang Sherpa, along with the Secretary, Mr. Phurba Tenji Sherpa.

The course trined by Mr Prakash Khatiwada an SEO Specialist and Digital marekting export and Director of Nepal SEO Company. 

A Peaceful Morning at Boudhanath Stupa - A Spiritual Start to the Day

This morning, my daughter Dikila and I visited the iconic Boudhanath Stupa—one of the holiest and most revered Buddhist sites in Kathmandu, Nepal. Experiencing the early morning spiritual atmosphere around Boudha was truly special.

We arrived just after sunrise, around 6 a.m. By then, locals and pilgrims had already begun their morning kora (circumambulation). Monks moved slowly around the stupa, spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras, creating a quiet yet powerful rhythm that filled the air with sacred energy.

The scent of incense surrounded us, and the soft chanting added to the peaceful mood. My daughter lit a butter lamp and offered a heartfelt prayer for peace and for the well-being of all sentient beings.

While walking the kora, we ran into some of my daughter’s friends, and afterward, we headed to Himalayan Java, one of the best coffee shops in Kathmandu. This cozy spot not only serves organic Himalayan coffee but also offers a stunning bird’s-eye view of Boudhanath Stupa from its large windows—making it the perfect place to enjoy a warm cup of coffee in the calm of the morning.

Visiting Boudhanath in the early hours is a deeply calming and spiritual experience. It’s the best time to connect with the serene energy of this sacred site, before the crowds arrive. If you're ever in Kathmandu, I highly recommend starting your day at Boudhanath—it's an experience you won't forget.