- Location: Dolakha, Nepal
- Ktm to Kalinchowk Distance: 150 meters
- Altitude: 3,842 m (12,605 ft)
- Trekking Starting Point: Charikot
- Trekking Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Famous for: Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple
- Main Attractions: Kuri Village, Temple, and Snow Activities
- Snowfall Time: December to February
- Best Time to Visit: Winter Season (December to February)
Kalinchowk is a popular hilltop located in the Dolakha district of Nepal. It is an all-in-one destination with a perfect blend of adventure, spirituality, snowfall, and scenic beauty.
Kalinchowk is just 150 kilometers away from Kathmandu, making it one of the nearest places to visit for a weekend gateway. It is primarily famous for Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple.
Standing at an altitude of 3,842 meters, this spot is a picturesque gem offering breathtaking views of mountains and snow-covered villages. Hiking is also quite popular here since the trails highlight the natural beauty at every turn.
Reason to Visit Kalinchowk
- Easy Accessibility: Kalinchowk is just 150 kilometers away from Kathmandu turning it into one of the nearest destinations for a weekend gateway.
- Affordable: It is one of the most affordable destinations in Nepal with reasonable travel packages. It is perfect for travelers on a low budget.
- Snowfall: It experiences snowfall during the winter making it perfect for snow lovers. It is considered one of the best places to visit in winter in Nepal.
- Stunning Himalayan Views: It offers the view of snow-covered mountains including Langtang, Gaurishankar, and Everest Ranges.
- Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple: It is a Hindu temple located that draws a large number of spiritual visitors.
Popular Things to Do in Kalinchowk
1. Hiking
If you are a hiking enthusiast, you can hike from Charikot to Kuri village. It will take around 5 to 6 hours depending on your speed. There are many hotels available for overnight stays. The next day you can continue your hike to Kalinchowk Temple located on the top of the hills. It will take around 1.5 hours.
2. Watch Sunrise and Sunset
You can wake up early in the morning and witness the beautiful sunrise in the Himalayas. The sunset view in the evening is equally hypnotic and satisfying.
3. Explore Kuri Village
Walk through the Kuri Village which is located just under the Kalinchowk Hills. You will see houses made up of stone and wood and sloppy roofs to stay warm during winter. You will also get a glance into the daily lives of the locals and their way of living, and experience their amazing hospitality. During the evening, you can enjoy a bonfire and play some music in the hotel.
4. Enjoy snow activities
If you are traveling in winter, you can experience snowfall and enjoy snow activities like snowboarding and skiing.
5. Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple
The trip seems incomplete without visiting this temple. Visit this sacred place located on the top of the hills and seek blessings. You can also witness the groups of majestic peaks from there.
6. Try Churpi and Yak Cheese
This place is famous for soft churpi and yak cheese. You should try it during your journey.
7. Cable Car
The cable car was introduced in Kalinchowk in 2018 because of the rising number of visitors.
If you are not comfortable hiking, you can ride a cable car to reach the temple. It is a short ride with breathtaking views of the hills.
How to Reach Kalinchowk?
You can reach there either by bus, car, jeep, or your own vehicle.
1. By Bus/Private Vehicle and Jeep
Drive to Charikot by bus, jeep or your own vehicle. The road is a blend of both pitched and off-road parts, offering a decent drive. From Charikot, hire a jeep to Kuri Village for comfortable travel as the road is completely off-road. From Kuri Village, you can either take a cable car or trek for around 1-2 hours to reach Kalinchowk Temple.
2. Drive and Trek to Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple
Drive to Charikot. Begin your trek from Charikot to Kuri Village, and continue to reach the temple.
3. Tour Packages
The trouble-free way to reach is by booking tour packages which are easily provided by many tours and travel.
Kalinchowk Itinerary
The trip will take 2-3 days. Follow this itinerary for a smooth and relaxing travel.
Day 1: Kathmandu to Charikot
Drive from Kathmandu to Charikot. You will reach there within 5 to 6 hours. Stay overnight in Charikot. You can easily find hotels there.
Day 2: Charikot to Kuri Village
Drive to Kuri village the next day by jeep which will take around 1 hour. You can also trek to Kuri Village from Charikot. Trekking will take around 4 to 5 hours.
Day 3: Kuri Village to Kalinchowk Temple
From Kuri village, you can either take a cable car to Temple or trek for around 1 hour.
Enjoy the amazing beauty of Hills, descend to Kuri village, and drive back.
Popular Trekking Routes to Reach Kalinchowk Temple
Route 1: From Charikot to Kalinchowk Temple
Distance: 17.9km
Trekking Duration: 6 hours
The trek begins at Charikot and ends at the temple. The route is amazing and filled with rhododendrons all along the way.
Route 2: From Kuri Village to Kalinchowk Temple
Distance: 1.9km
Trekking Duration: 1-2 hours
The hike begins at Kuri village and ends at the temple. The route is a bit challenging with a steep climb.
Places to Stay in Kalinchowk: Top Hotels
Many hotels and lodges are available in Charikot and Kuri Village. You can stay there overnight and head to Kalinchowk the next day.
Top Hotels in Charikot
- Hotel Ambrosia
- Charikot Panorama Resort
- Charikot Downtown Hotel
- Laxmi Lodge
- The Woods Charikot Resort
Top Hotels in Kuri Village
- Kalinchwok Country Villa
- Dolakha Kalinchowk Resort
Best Time to Visit Kalinchowk
The best time to visit Kalinchowk is the winter season (December-February) as it experiences snowfall this season and the village looks stunning blanketed in snow.
Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) also have pleasant weather with clear skies, Himalayan views, and rhododendrons all around. But you won’t be able to witness snowfall this season.
Kalinchowk Tour Cost
The cost of the Kalinchowk trip usually ranges from NPR 4000-7000 per person depending on your choice of transportation, food, accommodation, and how long you stay.
Conclusion
Kalinchowk is the perfect destination for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re enjoying the snow in winter, visiting the Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple, or simply soaking in the stunning views, this place offers something for everyone.
The nearby Kuri Village and the surrounding natural beauty add to its charm. With its peaceful atmosphere and cultural significance, Kalinchowk, along with its nearby attractions, ensures a memorable trip for all.
Planning to explore nearby places too? Also, read our blog on Jiri.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can we see Everest from Kalinchowk?
Yes, we can see the Everest range from Kalinchowk if the weather is clear.
Is there snowfall in Kalinchowk?
Kalinchowk witnesses snowfall in the winter season which is from December to February.
How long is a Kalinchowk cable car?
The Kalinchowk cable car ride is 2.5 km long taking around 6 minutes to reach the temple.
Asmita is a travel enthusiast who enjoys discovering new places, trying local dishes, and finding hidden gems across Nepal. As a writer for Travel Nepal Guides, she shares honest tips and personal experiences to help travelers explore Nepal with confidence.
