Trip Facts

  • Duration
    2 Days
  • Trip Start and End
    Kathmandu Kathmandu
  • Difficulty Level
    Light
  • Trip Area
    Dolakha District
  • Maximum Altitude
    3842m/12,604.99ft - Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple
  • Best Season
    September-November and March-May.
  • Meals
    Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation
    Hotels, Resorts
  • Transportation
    Car Jeep or Bus

Highlights

The Kalinchowk tour offers several highlights that make it an attractive destination for both nature enthusiasts and cultural explorers. Here are some of the key highlights of a Kalinchowk tour:

  • Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple
  • Panoramic Views
  • Scenic Drive
  • Charming Stops
  • Kuri Village
  • Cable Car Ride
  • Hiking Experience
  • Natural Beauty
  • Snowfall in winter
  • Cultural Exploration
  • Accessibility

Trip Overview

Kalinchowk, located at an altitude of 3,842 meters in the Dolakha district, is renowned for the Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple, which is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus. The region offers spectacular views of the Himalayas, including peaks such as Gaurishankar and Langtang.

Kuri Village serves as the base camp for the hike or cable car ride to Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple. For those who prefer not to hike, the cable car ride from Kuri Village to the temple provides a quick and scenic ascent. The trail is adorned with rhododendron forests and offers frequent views of the mountains, especially beautiful in the spring and autumn seasons​.

Besides the Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple, the area includes other cultural sites such as the Dolakha Bhimsen Temple. During the winter months (January and February), Kalinchowk becomes a snowy wonderland, attracting visitors who enjoy playing in the snow and winter photography​​.

Kalinchowk is relatively close to Kathmandu, making it an ideal short trip for those looking to escape the city for a couple of days without extensive travel​​.


Detailed Itinerary for a 2 Day Trip to Kalinchowk, Nepal

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Morning: Begin the scenic drive to Kuri Village, which takes approximately 5-6 hours.
Mid-morning: Enjoy a break in Charikot, where you can have lunch and stretch your legs.
Early Afternoon: Continue the drive to Kuri Village, arriving by early afternoon. Check into your lodge or hotel in Kuri Village. After settling in, explore the village, interact with locals, or relax at your accommodation.
Evening:
Enjoy a warm and hearty dinner at your lodge. Participate in a campfire event if available, often accompanied by music and storytelling.
Overnight:
Stay overnight at hotel

Early Morning:
After breakfast, either hike (approximately 1-2 hours) or take the cable car to Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple. Spend time at the temple, enjoying the panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges, including peaks like Gauri Shankar and Langtang.
Engage in a spiritual visit, offering prayers and experiencing the serene environment.
Mid-morning: Descend back to Kuri Village via the same route (hiking or cable car).
Late Morning: Begin the return journey to Kathmandu.
Stop for lunch en route, typically at a convenient location.

Afternoon: Arrival in Kathmandu.

Cost Includes

  • Transportation
  • Accommodation
  • Meals

Cost Excludes

  • Personal Expenses
  • Travel Insurance
  • Overnight Stay due to natural causes
  • Cable Car Tickets

Guidelines / Information

Weather:

Keep an eye on the weather forecast for Kalinchowk, especially if you plan to visit during the winter months when snowfall is common. Dress accordingly and prepare for possible weather-related challenges.


Accommodation:

Book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.


Road Conditions:

Be prepared for potentially rough and winding roads, especially if traveling during the monsoon season. It’s advisable to travel during daylight hours and be cautious of road conditions.


Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple:

Visit the Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site located at the summit. Respect local customs and religious practices while visiting the temple.


Scenic Views:

Enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas from the summit of Kalinchowk. On a clear day, you can see peaks like Gauri Shankar, Langtang, Dorje Lakpa, and even Mount Everest in the distance.


Photography:

Capture the stunning natural beauty of Kalinchowk, including its lush landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and vibrant flora and fauna.


Cable Car Ride:

If available, consider taking a cable car ride for a unique perspective of the surrounding area. Check the operating hours and ticket prices in advance.


Local Cuisine:

Taste the local cuisine and delicacies available in Kalinchowk. Popular dishes include dal bhat (rice and lentils), momos (dumplings), and thukpa (noodle soup).


Altitude:

Be mindful of the altitude at Kalinchowk, especially if you’re prone to altitude sickness. Take necessary precautions, such as staying hydrated and acclimatizing properly.


Healthcare:

Carry a basic first aid kit and any necessary medications with you. Medical facilities may be limited in the area, so it’s essential to be prepared for emergencies.


Environmental Conservation:

Respect the natural environment and follow Leave No Trace principles. Dispose of waste responsibly and avoid damaging the ecosystem.


FAQs

Kalinchowk can be visited year-round, but the best times are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to December). Winter visits are popular for snowfall, particularly in January and February.

Kalinchowk is approximately 144 kilometers from Kathmandu.

Yes, the Kalinchowk tour is considered easy and is suitable for beginners. The trail does not involve difficult or steep climbs, making it accessible to people with normal health and fitness levels​.

Recommended items include warm clothing (especially in winter), comfortable hiking shoes, personal toiletries, a first aid kit, and a camera. If visiting in winter, additional winter gear is advisable​.

Yes, there is a cable car service available from Kuri Village to the Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple. The cost for Nepali adults is NRs. 500, with discounted rates for students, elderly, and disabled individuals. The cost for foreigners is NRs. 1,000​.

Activities include visiting the Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple, hiking, taking a cable car ride, enjoying snow activities in winter, and experiencing local culture in Kuri Village.