Skip to content

Kalinchowk Trip

The Kalinchowk trip is a 2-day escape from Kathmandu to the high ridge of Kalinchowk in Dolakha, crowned by the temple of Kalinchowk Bhagwati at about 3,800 m. Drive to Kuri village, climb to the temple (a cable car now runs part of the way), and watch sunrise over Gauri Shankar, the Rolwaling and the Langtang ranges. In winter, it is one of the easiest places near Kathmandu to walk in snow.

Private transport, a guide, a night in a Kuri lodge and meals are included.

CountryNepal
Duration2 Days
DifficultyEasy to moderate
ActivityHike and pilgrimage
Max. AltitudeAbout 3,800 m / 12,467 ft (Kalinchowk Bhagwati)
Best SeasonOct–Mar (snow Dec–Feb)
AccommodationLodge in Kuri village
MealsLunch and dinner on day 1, breakfast on day 2
Group size1–12 people

Trip highlights

  • Kalinchowk Bhagwati temple at about 3,800 m
  • Sunrise views of Gauri Shankar and the Rolwaling Himal
  • Winter snow close to Kathmandu
  • Night in Kuri village

Kalinchowk Trip overview

Quick answer: the Kalinchowk trip takes 2 days from Kathmandu, reaches about 3,800 m at the temple, and costs from US$150 per person. Snow is likely from December to February. The altitude is high for a short trip, so walk slowly.

Kalinchowk is very popular with Nepali travellers, especially at weekends. Read our Kalinchowk guide.

At a glance

FactDetails
Duration2 days, 1 night
Highest pointAbout 3,800 m
BaseKuri village
GradeEasy to moderate
Best timeOctober–March
CostFrom US$150 per person

Day-by-day itinerary

Day1
Drive 5–6 hours to Kuri. Afternoon walk (or cable car part of the way) towards the temple for sunset, return to Kuri.
2–3 hours 3,800 m Lunch, dinner Lodge Drive and hike
Day2
Early walk up to the temple for sunrise over the Himalaya, then drive back to Kathmandu.
2–3 hours 3,800 m Breakfast Hike and drive

What’s included

Included

  • Private jeep from Kathmandu and back
  • Licensed, English-speaking guide
  • 1 night in a lodge in Kuri
  • Meals as listed
  • All government and local taxes

Not included

  • Cable car ticket (optional)
  • Drinks and snacks
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for your guide and driver

Useful info

Altitude

Kalinchowk is high for a quick trip from Kathmandu (1,400 m). Walk slowly, drink water and tell your guide about headaches or dizziness.

Snow and cold

From December to February, expect snow and ice; wear warm clothes and boots with grip. Microspikes can help.

Packing list

  • Warm down jacket
  • Gloves and warm hat
  • Boots with good grip
  • Headlamp for sunrise
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Water bottle

Add-ons & trip options

Extra night in Kuri (per person)US$35
Microspikes rentalUS$5

Choose add-ons and quantities on the booking form.

More options, quoted on request:

  • Extra night in Kuri.
  • Weekday departure to avoid crowds.

Frequently asked questions

About 3,800 m at the temple.

2 days from Kathmandu.

Usually from December to February.

Yes, a cable car now runs part of the way.

It can be; walk slowly and watch for symptoms.

From US$150 per person.