Videographer’s Testimony

– Lala Gurung

Manang is a familiar word for trekkers and hikers across the country. However, there are plenty of things to remember. As a videographer here is my witness of what I and my camera saw when I visited Manang from Kathmandu recently.

Manang’s Kangla pass- as high as 5320 meters- was the ultimate destination for me, hiking taken during the rainy season to make it more unforgettable. From a tourist point of view, Kangla is considered the most pious place and main attraction.

The first day started from Kathmandu with dusty road and traffic jam bothering all the passengers. By the time I reached Kurintar, I had to face 4 hours traffic jam. I felt that I would not be able to reach Besisahar.

However, I reached Besisahar, the district headquarters of Lamjung at night. This town (Besisahar) is situated on the bank of Marshayngdi river. So, the cool breeze blowing from this river let me forget my tiresome journey and lulled me to sleep.

The second-day journey starts from Besisahar to Chame, although the road is not concrete. The road takes a tunnel route that was constructed during the construction of Khudi hydropower. So, it was enjoyable and adventurous to travel through.

The road journey by small vehicle along the bank of Marshyangdi sometimes makes you shudder in fear. The road though romantic to tread on, is risky at the same time.  

Bong waterfall comes on the way where selfie can be taken. Then comes Myagdi river which is the dividing line between Lamjung and Manang.

Since there is no bridge across this river, our vehicle was ferried by a dozer. Again, the same fearful narrow and rugged road across the mountain to follow and then, at last, reach Chame, the main town of Manang, situated on the bank of Marshayangdi river.

The third day is to have breakfast at Chame and approach Pisang. The distant Himalayan peaks seem to have come close to us and touched our noses. Prayer flags and Chaitaya attract our attention.

Following this can be Gurung’s holy place named as La-Nassa -the place for Gurung’s ancestral worship- with a belief that worshiping ancestors here can open the doors to heaven for the ancestors.

Pisang as high as 3200 meters and is reachable by evening time. From Pisang we headed for Ngawal on the fourth day. Hunde airport is on the way to this destination. The plane takes off once in a week, while rescue works are carried out at any time.

Oldest monastery popular as Bhraga monastery built in 13^th century is found here as one of the relics of the past.

On the fifth day, we reach the mid camp which is around 4200 meters. The landscape is totally covered by the ice. In the sloppy hills of this area, a group of particular deer of the different breed can be observed in this region. The next day can be a good sight for heading for Kangla Pass at a height of 5320 meters. The team must walk on a 75-degree angle.