Nestled in the heart of Nepal, Kathmandu is a city that teems with vibrant life, steeped in rich history and culture. Its ancient temples and lively street markets awaken the senses, offering an immersive experience for visitors. However, for those seeking a more tranquil retreat, a haven of peace is just a short distance away. A mere 25-minute drive from the city's bustling center lies the Gokarna Forest Resort, a luxurious five-star sanctuary that offers a golf course amidst 470 acres of protected jungle. This lush haven is home to a diverse array of wildlife, once the exclusive hunting grounds of the Nepalese royal family. After the monarchy was abolished in 2008, a portion of this land was leased, with the stipulation that a 100-room hotel be constructed. The golf course, which had existed since 1999, transformed into the current 18-hole, 6,755-yard masterpiece that has become the resort's pride and joy. According to Deepak Acharya, the golf director at Gokarna, the course's natural splendor rivals that of the world's most renowned golf courses, such as Pebble Beach Golf Links along the California coast. "The golf course's uniqueness truly inspires me," Acharya shared. "I've visited over 200 golf courses globally, and Gokarna's beauty stands on its own merit."

With streams meandering through the Kathmandu Valley and the majestic Himalayas as a backdrop, the resort, which includes a spa, two restaurants, and a bar, provides an abundance of natural scenery and opportunities for wildlife encounters. It's not uncommon to spot up to 400 spotted and barking deer roaming the golf course's fairways daily, according to Acharya. While Chitwan National Park in south-central Nepal is celebrated for its wildlife, Gokarna offers a more reliable chance to observe these deer up close. This, however, presents a challenge for the greenkeeping team, as the deer can damage the greens. "It's a significant challenge to maintain the golf course because they run across the greens," Acharya admitted. "But one must pay the price for such beauty. Erecting a large fence would detract from the natural beauty."

Interestingly, the greenkeepers have found an unexpected ally in their efforts to preserve the course's integrity. Leopards, which are known to hunt the local deer population, have become a natural form of population control. Lucky guests may even catch a glimpse of these elusive predators on the resort's guided golf cart tours that explore the 140-acre course. Monkeys are regular inhabitants of the treetops, coexisting with over 60 species of birds native to the forest, such as the lesser yellownape woodpeckers, orange-bellied leafbirds, and brown wood owls. Bird watching tours are a popular activity at the resort, as are guided hikes through the forest that depart from behind the ninth tee, leading to historic temples and local villages. One of the highlights is the Gokarnaneshwor Mahadev Temple, an exquisitely adorned three-tiered structure by the Bagmati River, adorned with stone sculptures of various Hindu deities and the site of a significant festival during Kushe Aushi, akin to Father's Day, in August or September.

For those who enjoy such excursions, a short trip into Kathmandu, often referred to as "The City of Temples," offers a wealth of options. Durbar Square, also known as Basantapur Durbar, is home to over 50 temples, including the imposing Taleju Temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Taleju Bhawani, the 16th-century Jagannath Temple with its erotic carvings, and the Kumari Temple, the residence of the living goddess. Many of the city's key sites were affected by a devastating earthquake in April 2015, with efforts made to clean up and reopen them to minimize the impact on the city's thriving tourism industry.

The city's numerous annual festivals are particularly enticing, with the five-day festival of lights, Tihar or Yamapanchak, typically held in October and November. Kathmandu, with its proximity to several mountains such as Shivapuri Peak and Chandragiri Hill, serves as an ideal base for adventurers. On a clear day at the highest peaks, trekkers can enjoy an unforgettable view of Mount Everest, more than 150 kilometers (93 miles) away.

The Gokarna Forest Resort, with its blend of luxury and natural beauty, offers a unique experience for visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure. Its golf course, a testament to the harmony between human development and the preservation of nature, stands as a symbol of Nepal's commitment to sustainable tourism. The resort's commitment to maintaining the integrity of the environment, despite the challenges posed by its wildlife, reflects a deeper respect for the natural world and the balance between leisure and conservation.

In conclusion, Kathmandu and its surrounding areas offer a diverse range of experiences for travelers. From the bustling city life to the tranquility of the Gokarna Forest Resort, there is something for everyone. The city's rich cultural heritage, combined with the natural wonders of its forests and mountains, make it a destination that stimulates the senses and enriches the soul.