NEPAL prides itself on being a hub for outdoor activities worldwide. Some media go as far as to dub Nepal as the ultimate destination for adventure sports and mountaineering. But is that the extent of what Nepal has to offer? Can’t the differently abled also travel to Nepal and revel in the breathtaking sights of the Himalayas? Absolutely they can, and the government goes the extra mile to prioritize their needs. Here in this article, let’s find out how accessible travel is paving way for differently abled ones to enjoy and leisure at the lap of Himalayas and be excited at Jungle Safari or have solemn moment in Buddhist Birthland.
Right from the Airport
We all know Airlines are extra careful with differently abled ones. And, Nepal’s only International Airport- Tribhuvan International Airport, they do provide good access to such passengers. Special counter for immigration, and security check-ins, just escape the queue. A convey will usher to the exit and see-off till ones depart on their vehicle. The whole process from entering the airport until departing is soothing, in fact, the airport is smaller compared to the size of other contemporary airports, making it quick and easy.
Inside Kathmandu Valley
Where to stay ?
For first time travelers Kathmandu can be intimidating specially for the differently abled travelers, but gradually one will get used to it. It’s the way of life here! The hustle bustle, cringe city life of a developing nation is the first impression. When it comes to Kathmandu, many suggest Thamel for their stay, with abundance of cheap hotels and availability of nice and cheap eateries. But quite just not favorable for differently abled travelers. The roads in Thamel are quite crunched with no proper footpaths, making difficult for the wheelchair tourist for mobility.
Alternatively, new spots that cater the needs of differently abled ones are sprouting. South of Kathmandu lies the beautiful city of Lalitpur, an old British friendly neighborhood Jhamsikhel with proper footpath and hotels with disabled friendly amenities gets the brownie. Big wide restaurants and many activities to offer in this area. And, security of this area is high being area surrounded by Minister Quarters, Chief of Army residence and oh also to the Central Zoo of Nepal.
Roaming the UNESCO Heritage Sites
Now its day for travel. Kathmandu is city of heritage, an culmination of Buddhist and Hindu cultures. The valley of Kathmandu comprises of three districts – Bhaktapur, Lalitpur and Kathmandu itself. While Kathmandu can boast on having more sites, but when it comes to accessibility to those on underarm support and wheelchair travelers, Bhaktapur tops the list.
Travel slow and steady in Bhaktapur as this old city offers the magnificent time travel back to the era of Malla Monarchs around 400 years back, when the Newari civilization was it’s peak. The main durbar square is cut off from any vehicle entering, just few two wheelers so that don’t need to worry about traffic. With some snacks at Nyatapol Temple( tallest temple in Nepal), head towards Datatrya Temple complex, making a day long travel to an end. It can be reduced to few hours too but slower the better. And, Bhaktapur can go extra mile with proper guides. Mind that this palace square is the most expensive amongst the three districts of Kathmandu Valley.
In the district of Kathmandu, the Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square, Swayheumbhu and Boudhath are the UNESCO heritage sites, where everyone is offered to go. Hanuman Dhoka is bit crowded, also the historic monuments lacks infrastructure for mobility of wheelchair travelers, so is the case with Swayhembhu – a hillock top Buddhist Stupa. Swayhembbhu is better to can be bit unwelcoming for the differently abled travelers as there are wild monkeys attacking humans and no proper paths for wheelchair or the visually impaired travelers. Boudhanath deserve brownie points as it caters the specially abled ones. Big wide paved streets, abundance of quality restaurants carries the attributes to cater the differently abled travelers.
Lumbini-The Birth Place of Gautam Buddha
Lumbini so far must be the most disabled-friendly place in Nepal. Right from the entrance of the Lumbini area, it can be noticed. Almost all of the amenities there are friendly to aged travelers to differently-abled travelers. Being a place of religious significance this place is heavily invested by foreign governments. Thailand and Myanmar top the list of the support they have given to the development of this holy place.
Staying nearby Lumbini itself is the best option, while there are lots of other options in the city of Bhairahawa. While being one of the hottest place in Nepal, staying nearby the Lumbini Development Trust Area is better.
Pokhara: Naturally Magical Paradise
Pokhara now declared the tourism capital of Nepal, was already an unannounced tourism hub for every tourist. From the vibes, and nightlife to natural beauty, it’s truly a magical experience. Also, for the differently abled travelers the infrastructure is well managed, and hotels are designed to cater to the needs of differently-abled travelers.
Daily single flight from Lumbini connects Pokhara, if one is travelling Lumbini first. Whereas, there are flights every ten minutes from Kathmandu to Pokhara. As explained earlier, airports in Nepal are very much convenient for special travelers and ‘extra careful’ to the differently abled ones.
Pokhara boasts Nepal’s first accessible trail. The three-kilometer-long accessible trail situated at Sarangkot’s ridgeline gives the view of Annapurna range and Lake Fewa making it one of the best view to be seen from Pokhara. This one-of-a-kind trail has been the torchbearer of accessible tourism practice for Nepal. And, many other destinations in Nepal are also following the path towards accessibility and making it more inclusive.
Evening around Fewa Lake is a romantic one. Beautiful restaurants on the open air overseeing the second largest lake in Nepal, street performers doing their acts, Aarati ceremony make the place lively. A differently-abled traveler can enjoy it to the extent of all the normal travelers in this area. Wide footpaths and ample lighting makes this place most welcoming to differently able tourists.
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