Sankhu is a historic Newar town on the old trade route from Kathmandu to Tibet, in the north-east of the valley. Above it, reached by a stone stairway through forest, stands the Vajrayogini temple, an important shrine for both Hindus and Buddhists.
Quick answer: Sankhu is about an hour by road from central Kathmandu. Walk the old streets, climb to Vajrayogini, and combine with hikes to Nagarkot or Changunarayan. The town was badly damaged in 2015 and has been rebuilt.
Sankhu at a glance
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | North-east Kathmandu Valley |
| Known for | Vajrayogini temple, Newar heritage |
| Access | About an hour from Kathmandu |
| Combine with | Nagarkot, Changunarayan |
| Best time | October–April |
Things to do
- Climb to the Vajrayogini temple complex.
- Explore the old town gates and squares.
- Hike towards Nagarkot.
Trips and guides
Plan your visit
Sankhu shows the Kathmandu Valley before the city spread. Contact us and our Kathmandu team will help you plan it.