Ayush Pyakurel tells you how to discover diverse and diminutive Tansen

Tansen is one of the most cultured towns of Nepal and renowned for its hospitality. The name Tansen has been derived from the Magar language tansing — the northern settlement. Magars in Palpa district and Newars in Tansen town inhabit the region. Visitors have encountered Tansen as the resplendent queen of the hills. Tansen resembles Kathmandu in its huge network of streets, remarkable architecture and comfortable environment

Getting there

There are direct bus services to Tansen from Kathmandu, Pokhara, Bhairahawa and other cities. Several daily flights connect Kathmandu with Bhairahawa, from where it takes about two hours to reach Tansen.

Places to visit

Srinagar Hill, a picturesque hill just north of Tansen — a treat for photographers as one can view the brilliant scenery of the Dhaulagari, Kali Gandaki river, Ganesh Himal, Nilgiri, Machhapuchre, Manaslu, Mount Annapurna and more. If fortuitous, you will get to observe the magical view of Madi Valley enveloped in clouds.

Tansen Durbar is an impressive four-storied square palace with 63 rooms. Mul Dhoka/Baggi Dhoka, a finely decorated 30x12 feet doorway which leads from Shital Pati to the palace grounds is the main feature where yearly chariot

processions and festivals take place. Built in 1892 by Governor Khadga Shamsher, it is the largest doorway of its kind.

The path from Tansen to Ranighat in the north, a steady slope passing through a narrow gorge, makes for a brilliant walk during the day. Ranimahal palace on the bank of the Kali Gandaki river was built by General Khadga Shamsher JBR in recollection of his beloved queen Tej Kumari and stands as a monument of love. This deserted place is the best destination for nature lovers as it is renowned for the tranquility it offers.

Bhairab temple, nine kilometres west of Tansen is two-hour trek or thirty-minute drive away.

Ridi is famous as a cremation site and is considered sacred for the fossil-bearing stones found here. Pilgrims from different corners of Nepal come to Ridi, situated at about 20 km north-west from Tansen. The pilgrims then head to the Rishikesh temple established by Mukunda Sen, King of Palpa.

Tourists are often found visiting Batase Dada, Bhagawati Temple, Tudikhel, Ghorbanda-kumal Gau, Amar Narayan temple et cetera.

Where to stay

All sorts of accommodation are available in Tansen, from simple home stay to hotels. Hotel Srinagar and White Lake offer good accommodation and there are some basic hotels near the bus station.

Where to eat

Nanglo west and The Shital Pati serve good Nepali and Newari food, and decent western cuisine. Royal Inn, Doko Restaurant and Hotel Srinagar offer good food and refreshments as well.

 The author is a student and a travel enthusiast who loves photography and writing.