Explore Himlaya

Kuri: Village just below Kalinchowk

An isolated destination from the hustles and bustles of Kathmandu, Kalinchowk nestles right below the Gauri Shanker Himalayan Range in Dolakha; the flanking district to Kathmandu. Kalinchowk 3790m is just a couple of day’s two way trip from Kathmandu.

Snowy jungle trial to Kalinchowk

18 km north of Charikot, amongst the breathtaking landscapes lies Kalinchowck Temple. Highly revered pilgrimage site, Kalinchowk is accepted as wish fulfilling Goddess by the Hindu devotees. Holy processions are held within the temple premises during the major Hindu festivals like has Janaipurnima, Dasai, Chaite Dasai. Klinchowck hill also offers the fascinating views of the Himalayan range of entire Gauri Shanker and Langtang ranges. Moreover, the barren landscapes, enchanting rhododendron woods, beautiful little hamlets and the Kathmandu view adorned with lights during the nights are more than fantastic from Kalinchowk hill.

Mesmerizing view of Himalayas from Kalinchowk Hill

How to get there?

On a private vehicle your journey begins and as soon as you cross Sallagahari at Bhaktapur the scenic views of lush vegetation on the both sides of the road begins to mesmerize you. Cross passing the frequent settlements which includes Banepa, Dhulikhel and Mude you will arrive to Charikot after seven hours drive. Charikot, a district head quarter of Dolakha is the starting point for Kalinchowk trek.

Flag prayers at Kalinchowk Hill

Option 1: If you are driving to Kuri, you can continue the trip same day to Kuri where, you can stay for the night in the local guest house.

Option 2: If you are walking to Kalinchowk, you will have to halt at Charikot for the night.

The trial to Kuri penetrates through the jungle full of rhododendron fragrance. Kuri is couple of hours ride on a vehicle whereas; it takes seven hours to get there on foot.

The real adventure begins once you arrive to Kuri. The trail to Kalinchowk from Kuri begins with the walk on the staircases for few minutes and instantly slides up along the steep rocky hill with very few trees on it.

Bells hanging in the premises of Kalinchowk Temple: Himalayan view in the backdrop

Kalinchowk Bhagwati (3800m)

If you think the hikes featured previously are too easy and tame and you are in the lookout for a more challenging hike (without having to venture too far from Kathmandu), than the rough ascent up Kalinchowk(3800m) might be just right for you. To hike up Kalinchowk hill, you need to get to Charikot , situated about 150 kilometers from Kathmandu. You can take a local bus or rent a vehicle to get there. Kalinchowk is named after the hill top shrine dedcated to Kali (a Hindu Goddess) known as Kalinchowk Bhagwati. Two great rivers, Sunkoshi and Tamakoshi also originate from here.

The hike involves an ardous ascent from the word go. Beginning your hike from Charikot, you reach Kuri, a small settlement, at dusk and spend the night there at a local tea house. The next day’s climb is arduous and involves a really steep ascent (not for the fainthearted!) up a precipitous trail. At the top you will find the shrine of Kalinchowk Bagwati surrounded by metal tridents (Trishuls) and bells and the snowy spires of Gaurishankar, Melungste and other Himalayan peaks rearing majestically in the background. Standing at the top and savoring the heavenly views, you may forget your aches and pains and feel the back breaking climb worth the spectacular vista. The descent , though not easy on the knees, is much quicker. You can return to Kathmandu the same day.

(Duration: 2 Days, involving drive to & from Ktm & Five to six hours of trekking each day)

Charikot