Our family trip to Pathibhara Temple in Taplejung was an unforgettable experience that beautifully combined spirituality, adventure, and nature’s grandeur. The trip was a part of our Bijaya Dashami celebrations, right after the day of Tika. What began as a simple family getaway quickly turned into an exhilarating journey through some of Nepal’s most awe-inspiring landscapes.
Setting Off for Pathibhara
The journey began early on a bright and sunny morning at around 7:00 AM. The four of us—my father, mother, sister, and I—packed up our motorcycles, ready to set off. Our bikes roared to life as we started on the highway, leaving the bustling city behind us. The road initially was smooth, offering an easy ride, but as we approached the foothills, the terrain began to shift. The path became rougher, leading us into the thrilling off-road trails. With every mile, the excitement of the trip grew.
Our first major stop was at Bhedetar, where we had a simple yet hearty breakfast to fuel us for the long journey ahead. After that, we continued, winding our way through the mountain roads, finally reaching Taplejung after several hours of winding through rugged terrain. We stayed the night in Suketar, a serene town nestled among the hills, and rested for the journey that lay ahead.
The Hike to Pathibhara Temple
The next morning greeted us with a crisp, cold breeze, invigorating our senses as we set off for the final leg of our journey. By 4:00 AM, we were already on the road, our headlights cutting through the early morning mist as we made our way toward the base of Pathibhara Temple. We parked our motorcycles at the foot of the hill and began the hike to the temple.
Pathibhara Temple, perched atop a peak, is famous for its breathtaking views and its reputation as a wish-fulfilling shrine. The hike was strenuous, covering about 5-6 kilometers of steep paths, but the fresh mountain air kept our spirits high. It took us about four hours to finally reach the temple, with the sun climbing higher in the sky by the time we arrived, around 11:00 AM.
At the temple, we participated in the religious ceremonies, offering prayers and wishes. The atmosphere was serene, and the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains made it all the more special. We were surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the beauty of which took our breath away.
The Return Journey
After spending some time at the temple, we began our descent back, taking in the stunning views once again. Later that night, we arrived at Taplejung Bazar, exhausted but content. We spent the night there, savoring the quiet and peaceful night, knowing that our journey was far from over.
The next morning, we set off once again, but this time we took a different route to return home. We decided to pass through Ilam, the tea garden district of Nepal, known for its lush greenery and rolling tea plantations. The journey through the hills of Ilam offered us more captivating views of nature’s beauty, but it also had a surprise in store. In Kanyam, we had an unexpected reunion with someone who was very close to me—a truly serendipitous moment that added an extra layer of joy to our already eventful trip.
The Final Stretch
As the day wore on, we continued our journey, heading toward Biratnagar. By around 8:00 PM, we finally arrived home, exhausted but immensely fulfilled. Our bodies were tired, muscles sore from the long ride and hike, and our lips dry from the wind and dust of the mountain roads. Despite all that, we were brimming with excitement and a deep sense of satisfaction. This was more than just a trip; it was a journey of spiritual fulfillment, a celebration of family, and a deep connection to the beauty of Nepal.
And as I lay in bed that night, my mind raced with excitement for the next adventure—our upcoming journey to Mustang, which would start bright and early the next morning. The wheels of our adventures were turning, and the journey to Mustang promised to be just as thrilling.
Reflections
This trip to Pathibhara Temple will forever remain etched in my memory. Not only was it a religious pilgrimage, but it was also an adventure that allowed us to connect with nature and each other. From the stunning views of the mountains and sunrise to the quiet moments of prayer at the temple, every part of this trip was filled with wonder. And, as with all family trips, it was the shared experiences and unexpected encounters that made it truly special. It was a reminder that sometimes, the best moments in life are the unplanned ones.
If you’re ever looking for a perfect mix of adventure and spirituality, I highly recommend a trip to Pathibhara Temple. With its mesmerizing views and sacred aura, it is truly a place where dreams and wishes come true.
Journey Complete, but the Adventure Continues....