Kalinchowk, located in the Dolakha district, is a majestic hilltop that offers beautiful views of the surroundings. Kalinchowk, also known as Kuri Village, is home to Kalinchowk Bhagwati, a destination famous among pilgrims. This picturesque village is located about 140 km from the capital, Kathmandu.
Kuri is a small village that receives ample snowfall during the winter season. People of Kathmandu head towards Kalinchowk in huge numbers during the winter to witness snowfall. If you’re looking for a spiritual trip, a hiking destination, or a weekend getaway, this is an ideal destination for it all.
In this article, let’s explore this beautiful hilltop destination close to Kathmandu.
Some Facts About The Destination
- Distance from Kathmandu: 140 km
- Elevation: 3840 meters above sea level
- Accommodation: Hotels and Resorts
Why Visit Kalinchowk?
- Panoramic Himalayan Views: You can witness beautiful snowcapped peaks from this village. Some notable mountains around this region are the Gaurishankar, Langtang, and Everest Ranges.
- Spiritual Experience: The Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple is a sacred Hindu temple that attracts numerous pilgrims.
- Snowfall Experience: During the winter, Kalinchowk transforms into a completely different landscape. This makes it a perfect place for fun snow activities.
- Accessibility: Kalinchowk is located less than 150 km from Kathmandu, making it an accessible location. This is one of the nearest destinations that receives snowfall from the capital, Kathmandu.
- Trekking and Hiking Possibility: Although most people travel to Kalinchowk in a bus or a jeep, there is a possibility of hiking too. You can start your hike from Charikot, Dolakha, and reach the village in the evening.
How To Reach Kalinchowk?
By Jeep/Car or a Bike
The easiest and quickest way to reach Kalinchowk is by jeep, car, or bike. The road condition up to Charikot, Dolakha, is fairly good with occasional off-road patches. However, from Charikot, the 16 km patch of road is almost completely off-road. It is recommended to take a 4WD jeep or an off-road bike with a good suspension setup, as the road can get pretty bad during the rainy season.
By a Bus and Cable Car
If you are planning to travel to Kalinchowk in a public bus, it is also fairly possible. However, the bus journey will take a bit longer than your private vehicle. Once you reach Kuri Village, take a cable car journey to the Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple.
Drive and Trek to the Temple
Another alternative is to drive to Charikot, Dolakha, and trek to the temple. You’ll walk through rhododendron forests, enjoying the serene landscape around this place. The trek becomes extremely challenging during winter. Once you reach Kuri village, it’s a steep 1-hour climb to the temple.
Trekking Options and Possible Routes
Route 1 (Charikot to Kalinchowk Temple)
- Distance: 17 km
- Duration: 6 hours
This small trek starts at Charikot, Dolakha, and ends at the Kalinchowk Temple. The trail is beautiful, with rhododendron filling the route. It is a moderate hike and suitable for those who love nature walks. People with less physical fitness might struggle in the final stretch.
Route 2 (Kuri Village to Kalinchowk Temple)
- Distance: 1.5 km
- Duration: About 45 minutes to 1 hour
For this alternative, you start from Kuri Village and hike for a short distance to Kalinchowk Temple. This steep uphill hike from Kuri can be a bit challenging for some. However, this trail provides beautiful sunrise views over the Himalayas.
Activities To Do In Kalinchowk
- Visit the Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple, which is a popular Hindu temple with spiritual significance. Most people travel to Kalinchowk with the main purpose of worshiping this temple.
- Experience fun snow activities like skiing and snowboarding with your friends and family. This place receives enough snowfall during winter, and the landscape completely transforms.
- If you are tempted, wake up early and catch a glimpse of the majestic sunrise over the Himalayas. Photography is another activity you shouldn’t miss in Kalinchowk.
Best Times To Visit
- Winter (December-February): This is the most favorable time to visit this place, as it receives most snowfall around this time. The landscape becomes magical around December and February.
- Spring (March-May): Choose this season for pleasant weather and blooming rhododendron. However, you won’t be able to witness snowfall around this time.
- Autumn (September-November): Visit during this time if you’re looking for spectacular Himalayan views and clear skies.
Accommodation and Food
Kuri Village offers different types of hotels and resorts alongside homestays and basic lodges. The accommodation completely depends upon your choice and your budget. The hotel serves all varieties of food options. If you’re planning to visit during peak season, make sure to pre-book hotels and resorts.
Read More: Best 3-day treks in Nepal
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