Your exciting Kalinchowk Hike begins with an early morning departure from Kathmandu. After breakfast, you will be picked up by your guide and driven toward Charikot, a picturesque town located in the Dolakha District of Nepal. The scenic drive takes approximately 7-8 hours, passing through lush forests, terraced fields, and charming villages along the way. As you approach Charikot, you will be greeted with magnificent views of the Himalayas, including peaks like Mount Gauri Sankar and Mount Melungtse.
Once you reach Charikot, you will begin your hike to Kuri Village, which is located at an altitude of 3,842 meters. The hike is a gradual ascent through beautiful pine forests, traditional villages, and terraced farmland. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Upon reaching Kuri Village, you will settle into your lodge or guesthouse for the night. Kuri Village is a peaceful spot that offers magnificent views of the surrounding peaks. You can relax, enjoy the tranquility, and prepare for the next day's hike.
After an early breakfast, today’s adventure will take you on a hike to the sacred Kalinchowk Bhagawati Temple. Located at an altitude of 3,842 meters, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhagawati, a powerful Hindu deity, and is an important pilgrimage site for many devotees. The hike from Kuri Village to Kalinchowk is about 3-4 hours, depending on the weather and pace. Along the way, you will enjoy spectacular views of the snow-capped Himalayas, including Mount Everest, Gauri Sankar, and Langtang ranges. As you reach the top, you will be greeted by the temple’s unique architecture, the spiritual ambiance, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
After spending time at the temple, taking in the views, and perhaps engaging in some quiet reflection, you will retrace your steps back to Kuri Village. The descent is equally beautiful and offers more opportunities to appreciate the serene landscapes and local culture. Once you return to Kuri Village, you can relax, enjoy a hot meal, and rest in preparation for the following day’s hike.
On your final day of the Kalinchowk Hike, after breakfast, you will begin your descent from Kuri Village to Charikot. The hike down takes around 4-5 hours and is easier than the ascent. As you walk through the charming village trails and forested paths, you’ll have more opportunities to observe local life and experience the serene rural surroundings. Upon reaching Charikot, you will enjoy a brief rest before embarking on the drive back to Kathmandu.
The return journey to Kathmandu will take around 7-8 hours, providing more beautiful views of the countryside and the Himalayas in the distance. Once in Kathmandu, you will be dropped off at your hotel, where you can unwind and reflect on the amazing experiences of your Kalinchowk Hike.
This Kalinchowk Hike with Chingu Treks and Tours is a perfect combination of natural beauty, adventure, and spiritual exploration. From the serene village of Kuri to the sacred Kalinchowk Bhagawati Temple, this trek offers a memorable experience for nature lovers, trekkers, and those seeking spiritual enrichment. Thank you for choosing us for your Nepal adventure!
The Kalinchowk Hike is an exciting and moderately challenging trekking experience located in the eastern region of Nepal, specifically in the Dolakha District. It is famous for its scenic beauty, panoramic views of the Himalayas, and the Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple, which sits atop the Kalinchowk Hill at an elevation of 3,842 meters (12,605 feet). The hike offers trekkers a combination of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and the opportunity to witness breathtaking views of the Langtang Range, Gauri Sankar, and other snow-capped peaks.
The hike to Kalinchowk is a thrilling journey that combines challenging climbs, lush forests, and awe-inspiring mountain views. You'll begin by driving from Kathmandu to Kalinchowk (about a 7-8 hour journey), passing through small villages and beautiful landscapes. After arriving at the starting point, you'll trek through scenic paths lined with pine forests, terraced fields, and traditional settlements. Upon reaching the summit, you’ll visit the Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple, an important pilgrimage site for Hindus, and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. If visiting in winter, you might experience snowfall, making the landscape even more magical.
The Kalinchowk Hike typically takes 3 to 4 days, depending on the pace and route chosen. The journey includes a day of travel from Kathmandu to the hike’s starting point, followed by 1-2 days of trekking up to Kalinchowk. After reaching the summit, you will spend some time exploring the temple and the surroundings, before descending back to the base. The hike can be customized, depending on your preferences for additional exploration or relaxation time.
The Kalinchowk Hike package from Chingu Treks and Tours includes:
Transportation from Kathmandu to the trek starting point and back
Accommodation during the trek in guesthouses or teahouses
Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
English-speaking guide with knowledge of the area and its culture
Porter (if needed) to help carry your belongings
Permits required for the hike and local exploration
Chingu Treks and Tours ensures a comfortable and well-organized experience, including safe and reliable transportation, meals, and accommodation.
The Kalinchowk Hike is moderately challenging, requiring a basic level of fitness. The trekking involves ascending through forests and villages at an altitude that can make breathing slightly more difficult, so it is ideal for individuals with some previous hiking experience or who are in good physical shape. If you're an avid hiker or enjoy moderate to difficult treks, you’ll find this hike rewarding. However, if you have concerns about altitude or fitness, we recommend consulting with the Chingu Treks team, who can offer advice on whether this hike is right for you.
For the Kalinchowk Hike, it is essential to pack light but wisely. We recommend bringing:
Sturdy trekking boots for comfortable walking on uneven terrain
Warm clothing, especially if traveling during the winter months, as temperatures at higher altitudes can be cold
Water bottle, snacks, and energy bars for the hike
Sunscreen and hat for sun protection
Camera to capture the stunning views
Personal items such as toiletries, a small first-aid kit, and a flashlight
Rain gear (especially if traveling in the monsoon season)
It's also advisable to bring layers of clothing, as temperatures can vary throughout the day and night.
The best time to go on the Kalinchowk Hike is during the autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) seasons. These months offer clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The hike is still possible in winter (December to February), but it will be colder, especially at higher elevations, and there may be snowfall, which can enhance the beauty of the surroundings. Avoid trekking during the monsoon season (June to August), as the trails can be slippery and difficult due to rain.
The key highlights of the Kalinchowk Hike include:
Spectacular mountain views: Enjoy panoramic views of peaks such as Langtang, Gauri Sankar, and Everest from the summit.
Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple: Visit this sacred Hindu temple, where pilgrims from all over Nepal come to pay homage.
Scenic landscapes: Trek through lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages, offering a glimpse of rural Nepali life.
Snowfall (in winter): If you trek during the colder months, the landscape may be covered with snow, creating a magical winter wonderland.
Cultural exploration: Interact with the local communities and experience the lifestyle of people living in the region.
Yes, you can extend your trip to explore nearby areas such as Dolakha, Jiri, or the Ramechhap region. Chingu Treks and Tours can help you customize your itinerary based on your interests, whether you're looking for more trekking or cultural experiences. You may also choose to visit Gaurishankar Conservation Area, which is near Kalinchowk and is known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
Chingu Treks and Tours is a trusted tour operator that specializes in organizing guided treks to some of Nepal’s most stunning and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Our experienced guides are passionate about sharing the beauty of Nepal’s natural and cultural heritage. We prioritize your safety, comfort, and enjoyment throughout the trek, providing well-organized services, including transportation, accommodation, meals, and trekking support. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a beginner, Chingu Treks and Tours ensures a memorable and hassle-free experience.
