Indreshwar Mahadev Temple is one of the most significant historical and cultural landmarks in Panauti. As a core of Panauti’s religious life, this temple is believed to date back to the 15th century. Visiting this three-tiered temple provides a wonderful insight into the Newari architecture and the religious practices of the region. The temple stands at the confluence of the Rosi and Punyamati rivers, which further enhances the temple's sanctity. Tourists are often found marveling at the intricately carved wooden struts and the peaceful temple surroundings. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a part of a larger temple complex, which hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the notable Panauti Jatra.
Staying in a community homestay in Panauti allows travelers to experience the true essence of Nepali hospitality. Guests are welcomed into the homes of the local Newari community where they can learn about the local traditions, cuisine, and way of life. The community homestay program is an initiative to empower women within the community, and guests directly contribute to this cause. During the homestay, travelers can participate in activities such as cooking classes, traditional weaving, and guided walks around the quaint town of Panauti.
The Panauti Museum offers a detailed look into the rich cultural heritage of Panauti town. Located within a beautifully restored traditional Newari house, the museum showcases a range of artifacts, sculptures, and manuscripts that trace the history of Panauti and its people. Visitors can explore various exhibits spread across multiple floors, with each one focusing on a different aspect of local culture, including religious practices, trade, and everyday life. Tour guides are available to provide in-depth explanations of the exhibits, greatly enhancing the educational value of the visit.
The trek to Namobuddha Monastery is a spiritual journey through the beautiful hills and rural landscapes surrounding Panauti. The monastery, situated atop a hill, is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Nepal and is associated with the legend of the Buddha's sacrifice. The trekking route takes hikers through small villages, terraced fields, and offers panoramic views of the Himalayas. Upon reaching the monastery, trekkers can enjoy the tranquil ambiance, observe the prayers of the monks, and revel in the intricate artwork that adorns the walls of the monastery.
Biking around Panauti is an adventurous way to explore the rural charm of this age-old town. The bike tour typically includes riding through the town’s narrow alleyways, past traditional houses, and alongside lush paddy fields. Cyclists can enjoy the scenic beauty of the outskirts of Panauti, which offers views of the surrounding farmland and distant mountain ranges. The route may take riders across suspension bridges and up to vantage points for a unique perspective of the town and its natural beauty. This activity is perfect for those looking to combine physical activity with cultural interaction.
A walking tour of Panauti is a delightful way to discover the hidden gems of this ancient town, which is often overlooked by the mainstream tourist trail. The guided walk typically takes you through the town's narrow, winding streets lined with finely crafted Newari houses, traditional shops, and courtyards. Visitors can enjoy the unhurried pace of life and observe the daily activities of the locals. Highlights include historical sites such as the Unmatta Bhairav and Krishna Narayan temples, the ghats along the Punyamati River, and the recently renovated public rest houses known as ‘pati’ and ‘sattal’ which provide shelter to weary travelers. The tour often culminates at the iconic Triveni Ghat, where the annual Makar Mela festival takes place.
Savoring the local cuisine in Panauti is an absolute must for food enthusiasts. Panauti offers a rich variety of Newari food, which includes dishes like Bara (lentil patties), Momos (dumplings), and Yomari (rice flour dumplings filled with melted jaggery). Food tours can take you to different eating joints, from established restaurants to street vendors, where you can try these specialities and learn about the ingredients and methods of preparation. Some community homestays also provide cooking lessons, where visitors can get hands-on experience to make authentic Newari dishes. Engaging with local food is a way to immerse in the culinary culture and understand the traditions of Panauti.
The agricultural and eco-tour in Panauti is designed for tourists interested in sustainable practices and traditional farming. The tour takes guests to different farms around Panauti, where they can observe organic farming techniques and even participate in some of the farming activities. This includes planting or harvesting crops depending on the season. In addition to learning about farm life, this tour gives insight into the eco-friendly initiatives taken by the community to preserve their environment, such as water management and the use of renewable energy. This is a great opportunity to engage with local farmers and understand the challenges and successes of rural Nepali agriculture.
Triveni Ghat is a serene and spiritual spot in Panauti where visitors can experience the confluence of the three sacred rivers: Rosi, Punyamati, and the invisible Lilawati. This auspicious location is significant for Hindus, who perform religious rituals and take holy dips during important festivals. On non-festival days, the ghat presents a peaceful environment for contemplation. The ghat area also encompasses several small shrines and statues, which provide a deeper understanding of the Hindu faith. Watching the local rituals and appreciating the calm flow of the river can be both an educational and relaxing experience for any visitor.
Panauti is rich in traditional crafts, and participating in a local crafts workshop allows visitors to engage with these long-standing traditions. Workshops can include pottery making, woodworking, or traditional textile weaving. Under the guidance of local artisans, participants learn about the techniques, materials, and design elements that make up the unique Newari craftsmanship. This hands-on experience is not only educational but also serves as a way to support local artisans and preserve the cultural heritage of Panauti. At the end of the workshop, participants typically have a piece of handcrafted art to take home as a memento of their experience.
