Whenever we talk about going out on the first day of the New Year, we think about a jet ride to destinations far away, or a quick trip to Pokhara. Those who do not think along those lines, plan to go to Chitwan to spend time with friends and family, and the ones ‘left’ in Kathmandu remain at home watching the telly.

But with beautiful weather blessing the Valley this New Year, there are places you could visit during the day to soak up the sun. These places are not far away from the city, but once you are there, you feel you have left Kathmandu far far away. Here we look at four places to spend January 1 this year:

1.

Siddha Pokhari

Located in Bhaktapur, the ‘pokhari’ provides some excellent views of the Himalayas. As you enjoy the sun, you can feed the fish in the pond, or take to a corner and read your favorite book. The place is usually quiet, and remains open till late in the afternoon.

2.

Bouddhanath

The Bouddhanath Stupa, damaged by the 2015 quake, has just been restored to its glory. You can spend an entire day at Bouddhanath, sipping hot chocolate, watching people (and pigeons) get on with their lives. The Stupa square is abuzz with tourists, and pilgrims.

3.

Nagarjun Hill

Located in the north-eastern part of the Kathmandu Valley, Jamacho Monastery, on Nagarjun Hill provides some  stunning vistas of the Himalayas. Although visibility is low in the valley during the winter season, the view tower’s altitude compensates for it. The walk from Fulbari Gate, near Balaju Bypass, to Jamacho takes around three hours. The area is guarded by the Nepali Army, and you need to present your ID to get in.

4.

Patan is fast emerging as the Valley’s cultural hub. There are excellent eateries, both traditional and modern, museums and historical palaces to visit. When the sun is out in its full glory, there is no other place in the Valley that is better than Patan, to sit down and listen to the sounds of the city.

***

More destinations around the valley

The challenge that is Balthali

The rustic utopia that is Dandagaon

A Mountain Retreat in Namo Buddha

At Pharping, among myths and miracles

Taudaha: A foggy view of wetland not so far from urban jungle

Kakani: Just outside Kathmandu, this village comes to life at night

Dhulikhel: At historical Nepal-China trade town Himalayan panorama is successful commodity