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Tokha: Old Newar Town of Chaku Sweets

Kathmandu Valley

In this article
  1. Tokha at a glance
  2. Things to do
  3. Trips and guides
  4. Plan your visit

Tokha is a historic Newar town on the northern edge of the Kathmandu Valley, below Shivapuri. Its brick streets, temples and courtyards survive between new housing, and it is famous for chaku, a dark molasses sweet that is especially popular at Maghe Sankranti in January.

Quick answer: Tokha is about 30–45 minutes from central Kathmandu. Combine with walks into Shivapuri or a visit to Budhanilkantha.

Tokha at a glance

FactDetails
LocationNorthern Kathmandu Valley
PeopleNewar
Known forChaku sweet, old streets
Best timeJanuary for chaku; October–April
NearbyShivapuri, Budhanilkantha

Things to do

  • Walk the old town and temples.
  • Taste chaku in winter.
  • Hike towards Shivapuri.

Trips and guides

Plan your visit

Tokha is a sweet slice of old Kathmandu. Contact us and our Kathmandu team will help you plan it.

Frequently asked questions

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On the northern edge of the Kathmandu Valley.

A molasses sweet.

Especially at Maghe Sankranti.

30–45 minutes.

Shivapuri and Budhanilkantha.