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One of Nepal's most famous
religious places of pilgrimage is Gosainkunda lake situated at
an altitude of about 4312 m. Surrounded by high mountains on the
north and east, this lake is grand and picturesque. Every year
during Janai Purnima in August, thousands of Hindu pilgrims come
here for pilgrimage and it is quite a sight.
The large rock in the center of the lake is said to be the
remains of a Shiva shrine and it is also claimed that channel
carries water from the lake directly to the tank at the
Kumbheshwar Temple in Patan, 60 km to the south. Shamans ("Dhami")
come from all over Nepal arrive to the lake and on full moon
night.
There is much dancing and singing. This day is considered holy
by the shamans whereby apprentices or "Jhankris" graduate into
full shamans. Trekking in August can be a bit wet as the monsoon
is at its last stages, but the greenery is at its best and since
it is not peak season, it is best for people who do not want to
be part of the crowd.
Peak views: Langtang (23771 ft.), Dorje Lakpa (22929 ft.), Loen
Pogang (23238 ft.), Phurbi Ghyachu (21844 ft.). From Ghopte;
Annapurna, Himalchuli, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal.
Ethnic groups/tribes: Sherpa, Tamang, Brahmin, Chettri.
This easy to moderate trek starts from the northeast side of
Kathmandu Valley and goes north towards the picturesque Langtang
Valley. An interesting extension to this trek can be a visit to
the Langtang Valley. Apart from this trek extension, other
adventure activities once you are back in Kathmandu are always
possible.
This is the time of year when visits to Tibet and Bhutan are
best. Combining this typical Shaman experience with a visit to
Tibet to see ancient Buddhism in practice can be a complete
spiritual experience. |
