Last month, I went on one of the most memorable trips of my life — a spiritual journey to Swargadwari and Lumbini with my family. Both places are known as important religious sites in Nepal, and visiting them felt like stepping into a world full of peace and devotion.
We started early from Kathmandu, when the sky was still turning bright. As the city slowly faded behind us, the serpentine road led us deeper into the hills which opened up like a painting. There were green fields, tiny houses, and rivers sparkling in the morning sun. Sometimes we stopped for tea and snacks, and those moments were full of laughter and excitement. Even though the road was long and a bit tiring, the beautiful scenery made the journey enjoyable.
Nepal beyond mountains and hills
Reaching the base of Swargadwari, I looked up and realized how high the temple stood. It felt like it was truly closer to heaven. We chose to go up on horseback, and it was my first time riding one on a mountain path. The trails were narrow and steep, and honestly, I was nervous in the beginning. But as we went higher, the fear turned into fun. The cool wind on my face and the sound of the horse’s hooves made it feel like an adventure movie.
When we arrived at the top, the view surprised me. Hills rolled endlessly in every direction, and the temple looked calm and majestic. The atmosphere felt holy — the sound of bells, the smell of incense, and people praying quietly created a peaceful environment. We received dal and rice as prasad, and even though the food was simple, it felt special. There is something pure about eating in a temple after a long climb.
In the evening, we joined the locals for bhajans. The sound of drums and everyone singing together made the air feel filled with devotion. That night, we slept near the temple. I still remember the cold mountain breeze, the stars shining brightly above us, and the silence all around. Sitting with my family, wrapped in warm clothes, talking and laughing, felt like a moment I never wanted to end.
The next morning we headed toward Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. As soon as we arrived, the calmness of the place surrounded us. We visited the Maya Devi Temple, the holy pond, and the Ashoka Pillar. Each site felt like it carried a thousand years of history. We also saw monasteries built by different countries. Each one had a unique design, and walking through the peaceful gardens made me feel relaxed and thoughtful.
This journey was more than just sightseeing. It brought my family closer, reminded me of the power of faith, and made me proud of Nepal’s spiritual heritage. The horse ride, the temple bells, the peaceful chants, and the quiet paths of Lumbini — all these moments have become memories I will cherish forever.
