Khokana, a small Newari village surrounded by paddy fields lies on the outskirts of Kathmandu in Lalitpur district. This village is famous for its mustard oil (made the traditional way by pressing the seeds) and the temple of Khokana’s guardian goddess, Shekali Mai. You are greeted with wonderful sights of rural life as you walk down the village street – women sitting outside and spinning yarn, men busy with the mustard oil presser, families busy threshing or drying out their harvested paddy, old men sitting outside chatting or watching the children play. The street is lined with traditional houses festooned with garlands of dry chillies, corn and garlic hanging by the rafters. A visit to Khokana offers you a wonderful opportunity to experience rural life and Newari culture.

(Pictures: Explore Himalaya)