Nature · Ramaroshan
Kinimini, the great meadow of Achham
Walk out to Kinimini patan, Ramaroshan's largest meadow, where the Kailash stream winds through open grass and herders bring their cattle in summer. Space, silence and wide skies.
Kinimini is the largest of Ramaroshan's eighteen patans and is said to be the largest meadow in Achham district. It opens suddenly out of the forest, a wide, gently sloping grassland with the Kailash stream meandering across it in loops.
In the summer months herding families bring cattle and buffalo up to graze, living in simple goth shelters at the meadow edge. If they are there, your guide can introduce you; they may offer buttermilk or yoghurt. In autumn the grass turns gold and the meadow is quiet, with long views to the surrounding ridges.
The walk from the lakes is easy to moderate, along forest trails and across open ground. Carry water and a snack, and a jacket against the wind on the open grass. Stay on paths near the stream, as parts of the meadow are boggy.
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Questions
What is a patan?
A patan is a high open meadow in the hills of western Nepal, used for grazing. Ramaroshan is famous for its eighteen patans, and Khaptad nearby for its twenty-two. Kinimini is the largest at Ramaroshan.
Can I meet herders at Kinimini patan?
In the summer grazing season, roughly from late spring to early autumn, herding families often stay at the meadow edges with their animals. Ask your guide to introduce you and always ask before photographing people or their shelters.
Is the walk to Kinimini difficult?
No. It is an easy to moderate walk on forest trails and open grass at about 2,500 m. Most people manage it in three to four hours return with stops. Some ground near the stream can be wet and soft.
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