Oases In An Urban Jungle - Part II
Looking down upon the Kathmandu valley from various viewpoints, the rapid urbanization at times feels like an urban jungle. Towering buildings, widening roads, and shrinking open spaces has left little room for citizens and visitors to experience nature and its wonders. Discovering lush greenery, vibrant flora and sound of flowing water is as close to stumbling upon an oasis.
Mentioned below are a few such sanctums which invoke solace and tranquillity.
Taudaha
Taudaha comes from a combination of two words in Nepal Bhasa (the dialect of the Newa people) ‘Ta’ meaning snake and ‘Daha’ means lake. A freshwater lake with profound biodiversity Taudaha holds cultural and religious significance for Newa citizens of the valley. Believed to be a remnant pool of a lake that once covered the entire valley. “ According to mythology, a Buddhist mythical character Manjushree cut the hill in the valley’s south, allowing the lake’s water to drain off, thereby creating land that was duly occupied by people.”- Wikipedia
Home to 17 resident bird species, experts have recorded over 40 species in the lake area. Barn Swallow and Indian Cuckoo migrate to Taudaha during summer, whereas, The Great Cormorant, Ruddy Shelduck, Nothern Shoveler, Mallard Duck, Gadwall, Eurasian Coot, Northern Pintal and Common Teal migrate here during the winter.
Non-native fish species of carps over time have disrupted the ecosystem for native species such as barbs, catfishes and snakeheads. Reptiles such as checkered keelback and oriental garden lizard are sighted in this region frequently.
Surrounded by a well-paved path and sitting areas, locals and visitors get to indulge in morning and evening walks. Various other activities such as bird watching, meditation, yoga and hiking are also popular. Due to its cultural significance, swimming and fishing in the lake are not allowed.
Taudaha is a destination within the valley to rekindle ones spirit with nature accompanied by great hospitality and indigenous cuisine. An itinerary to Taudaha can also include a stroll in Manjushree Park and a hike to Adinath Lokeshwor Temple. The region is not just home to natural diversity but also a cultural one. Depending upon the season, various religious celebrations occur in the area such as Nag Panchami, Gunla and Kartik Mela.
Sundarijal
‘Sundari’ translates to beautiful and ‘Jal’ water from Nepali to English. Sundarijal, a village located in Gokarneshwar Municipality: is a true oasis in an urban jungle.
An escape to Sundarijal features tantalizing encounters with waterfalls, water bodies and native wildlife. The river Bagmati originates from this region and holds great social, communal and religious significance to the citizens of the valley. It is also a prime source of drinking water for the valley of Kathmandu.
Fifteen kilometres (9 miles) north-east of Kathmandu,Sundarijal falls west of Gagalphedi; east of Nayapati and Baluwa and north of Aalapot. The northern portion of Sundarijal falls within Shivapuri National Park.
Sundarijal’s biodiversity consists mostly of pine, oak and rhododendron. The region maintains an average temperature of 25.5º C in summer and 0º C during the winter. Wildlife such as Himalayan black bear, leopard, jungle cat and rhesus monkeys are sighted. It is also home to 177 species of birds amongst which nine endangered. One hundred two species of butterflies also call this region home.
Due to its proximity to Kathmandu, it receives a substantial amount of weekender’s who come for a quick getaway. Various activities such as nature walks, hikes, bird watching and canyoning have gained popularity in this region. Treks to Lantang Range, Chisapani and other routes also begin from Sundarijal.