Exploring The Unexplored - Part III
Panauti
Province: Bagmati
Distance from Kathmandu: 32 km
Accessibility: Land at TIA (Tribhuvan International Airport) and take a 1.5 hour bus ride along Araniko Highway
Attractions: Well preserved traditional Newar architecture, Indreshwar Mahadev Temple, Brahmayani Temple, Tindhare Waterfall, Old Bazzar
When we think of the Newar culture; and their dominion, the valley kingdoms of Lalitpur, Kathmandu (Kantipur) and Bhaktapur come to mind. But, they aren't the only cities that feature a sizeable population of this ethnic community that once dominated the landscape of this region. Cities such as Panauti, Bandipur, Kirtipur, Bhimphedi, Banepa, Nuwakot and Palpa also feature brilliant examples of Newari culture and lifestyle.
Panauti was once a flourishing kingdom. It was a trading hub in Tibet and India's ancient Salt Trade Route. Historically, this region was a small state. As per historical findings, the settlement was created by King Ananda Malla.
“This younger brother (Ananda Malla) being very generous and wise, gave up the sovereingty over the two cities, and having invoked Annapurna Devi from Kasi founded a city of 12,000 houses which he named Bhaktapur(Bhatgaon) and included sixty small village in his territory.After this, the Raja having obtained the favour and directions of Chandeswari, founded seven towns; viz. Banepur(Banepa) near Chandeswari Pitha, Panavati(Panauti), near the Pragaya TIrtha of Nepal, celebrated in the Shastras on the site where Panchala-des formely stood, Nala, near Nala Bhagavati, Dhaukhle near Narayana; Khapu near Dhaneswaril Chaukot near the residence of Chankora Rishi; Sanga near Nasika Pitha.”
Wright 1877: 163
Later, during the reign of King Bhupatindra Malla, the state was presented his passed on to his sister as dowry (offerings given by the bride's side during marriage). Panauti is a city of great historical significance. As per chronicles and historical findings, this region was where the Panchala-desh once stood. Panchala was one of sixteen mahajanapadas (states) of the Indian subcontinent. Characters of Mahabharata such as Draupadi, Drupada, Satyajit, and Sage Dhaumya are said to be natives of Panchala.
Panauti is an example of what the entire valley once looked like once. The city is stagnant today like many other once trading hubs of the ancient salt route. This stagnation helped preserve the historicity of the city and its architecture.
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
Provinces: 1 & 2 ( Madesh Province)
Distance from Kathmandu:
Accessibility
By Road: 8.5 hour bus ride (338.6km) via B.P Highway & East-West Highway, Daily buses (Day & Night) service from Kathmandu to Kakarbhitta and Biratnagar, visitors shpuld disembark at Jamuha and walk 2.5 km to the reserve head quarter.
By Air: 35 minute plain ride from Kathmandu to Biratnagar then a 1.5 hour bus ride
Attractions: Sapta Koshi River, last surviving population of wild buffalo, fauna species such as hog dee, wild deer, spotted deer, blue bull and rock python, panoramic views of Himalayan peaks including Makalu (8643m), 441 species of birds (14 endemic)
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve KTWR) is a marvellous example of conservation at its finest. Originally this area was announced as a Hunting Reserve in 1969 with a total area of 12 km2. In 1976, the reserve area was enlarged to 65 km2. A third phase extension was conducted in 1980 to feature the present total area of 175 km2.
When we think of the conservation area projects in Nepal- the eastern flank is highly reclusive. Due to ineffective development of transportation and lack of adequate promotion compared to its western siblings are less traversed.
KTWR is the last habitat for Babalus arnee, also known as Wild Buffalo or Arna in the Nepalese language. It is also the habitat for 14 endemic species of birds that thrive in this wetland. This area has thee distinct seasons- Summer (February through May), which is very hot with minimal precipitation. The monsoon beings in late May/early June and lasts till September. The monsoon features intense flooding of the region. Winter beings in October and lasts till January. Even this season features moderate temperature, it can get cold sometimes.
The last time KTWR came into the spotlight was when Gangetic dolphin's were spotted in the lake system. The reserve is home to the endangered Gharial crocodile and is the perfect habitat for various migratory birds.