KATHMANDU: The winter sun has started to shine, schools are closed for Dashain, and the government is encouraging domestic tourism by offering tourism jobs to its employees.
So, where to visit? Here, we highlight the enchanting tourist destinations in Dolakha, which boasts a robust tourism infrastructure just a stone’s throw from Kathmandu.
Kharidhunga
On the journey from Kathmandu, you will arrive at Kharidhunga, a burgeoning attraction for tourists and a popular filming location for many Nepali movies.
During the snowy season, both domestic and foreign tourists flock here to witness vibrant flowers blooming in a myriad of colors.
Visitors can also purchase local products such as khari khal lohoro, silauto, and bread-making materials, as well as various idols of deities crafted in the area.
Charikot Bazaar
Charikot, the headquarters of Dolakha, is another must-visit destination for residents of Kathmandu. While exploring Charikot, visitors can enjoy a boat ride to see landmarks such as Kotihom Temple and Simpani Pond.
From the nearby viewing tower, one can admire panoramic views of the surrounding Dolakha region.
Dolakha Bhimsen
Bhimeshwar Temple, a significant historical site, is located just 4 km northeast of Charikot in the town of Dolakha. You can reach it from Charikot by auto or Bolero for a fare of 50 rupees per person, or take a shorter ride to Singti for 20 to 30 rupees.
For those not inclined to walk, the temple is a 1.5-hour visit. The temple hosts daily worship and celebrates various fairs like Bhim Ekadashi, Balachartudashi, Chaitedashain, and Badadashain.
Locals believe that visiting this temple brings good fortune, as it is said that Bhimsen, a heroic figure, once fought against injustice.
Bhorle Falls
Bhorle Falls, located towards Singti, is a stunning waterfall approximately 4 kilometers from Singti. The water cascades from a height of over 100 meters, making it a popular spot for both domestic and foreign tourists.
Switzerland of Nepal (Jiri)
Traveling for about two hours from Charikot will bring you to Jiri, often dubbed the Switzerland of Nepal. Located 184 km from Kathmandu, Jiri is home to the marginalized Jirel community, which lends the area its name.
This charming town also serves as the gateway to Mount Everest. Major attractions in Jiri include tea gardens, waterfalls, caves, ponds, streams, and lush green forests.
Visitors can also immerse themselves in the distinct arts, cultures, costumes, and local cuisines of the Jirel, Sherpa, Tamang, and Sunuwar communities.
Hanumante Hill
Hanumante Danda, situated on the border of Baiteswar and Jiri municipalities, is about 25 km from Charikot. This beautiful site is named after Lord Rama’s devotee, Hanuman, and is known for its religious significance.
The hill is perched at an altitude of 3,200 meters above sea level and offers breathtaking views.
The journey to Hanumante’s Basescamp via Khawa takes about 45 minutes, followed by a 700-meter walk up stairs to reach Bhir Takura, where the idol of Hanuman is located. From the hilltop, visitors can gaze upon the entire Dolakha region.
Shailungeshwar Mahadev
“Maathi maathi Sailungemaa…” These lyrics by Shrawan Mukarung, with music by Shila Bahadur Moktan and vocals by Kunti Moktan, resonate with many who know of Shailung’s enchanting beauty.
“Saya Thumka,” located in Shailung, is a celebrated tourist spot in Dolakha. This area, standing at around 3,400 meters above sea level, is renowned for its stunning landscapes.
Shailung hill features 100 captivating spits, collectively developed as a tourist destination called “Saye Thumki” or hundred hillocks.
Gaikhura Mahadev
The Gaikhura Mahadev Temple, located in Melung village of Dolakha, holds significant religious importance. It is widely believed that visiting the “shila” (sacred stone) of this temple will lead to the fulfillment of one’s wishes.
Tasi Monastery
Nepal is a nation rich in religious and cultural diversity, boasting numerous heritage sites that attract both domestic and international tourists.
Among these is Tasi Gumba, situated 13 miles north of the Dolakha headquarters, also known as Bhigu Gumba. A candle that never extinguishes is regularly lit in the monastery, with a tradition of lighting lamps from Saptami to Ekadashi.
There is a fascinating legend surrounding this practice: during Dashain, a festival marked by animal sacrifices, lamps are lit in honor of ducks, chickens, goats, and snakes, symbolizing the connection between the two cultures.
Deulangeshwar Mahadev
The Deulangeshwar Mahadev Temple, located on the border of Orang and Lamabagar, is a renowned pilgrimage site in the northern region.
A major fair is held at this temple on Swasthani Purnima, commemorating the day when Mahadev married Satyadevi in the guise of a jogi during the Satya Yuga.
Legend has it that after their marriage, Satyadevi broke the wall of the hut where they resided, revealing a breathtaking view of the Himalayan mountains.
Mahankal Bhagwati
Mahankal Bhagwati Temple, located in Bhimeshwar Municipality Ward No. 5, is a unique site where women are traditionally not permitted to visit. Despite this restriction, the temple attracts a significant number of tourists.
This Bhagwati is also referred to as Kanchi Baini of Kalinchok Bhagwati, highlighting its importance in local religious practices.
Kalinchowk Bhagawati
Few have not heard of the Kalinchowk Bhagawati Temple. This sacred site is particularly accessible during the winter months, even for the sick and children, despite the heavy snowfall.
From Kalinchowk Hill, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-covered landscape.
To enhance the experience for pilgrims, a cable car has been established to transport visitors from Kuri to the temple, making the religious journey to Kalinchowk much more comfortable. Located about 15 km north of Charikot headquarters, the temple sits at an altitude of 3,842 meters.
Jatapokhari
Jatapokhari is a significant religious site located 16 kosas northeast of Charikot headquarters. A major fair is held at this pond on the full moon day, drawing many visitors. The pond is situated at an altitude of approximately 4,500 meters.
Chho Rolpa Himtal (Glacier lake)
Chho Rolpa Himtal, located in the Rolwaling Valley within Gaurishankar Rural Municipality of Dolakha, is Nepal’s largest glacial lake.
It is believed that this lake, sitting at an elevation of 4,580 meters, originated only about 50 years ago.
In 1963, the glacier covered an area of 0.23 square kilometers. However, according to a satellite map from 1997, its area has expanded to 1.65 square kilometers.
This glacier contains an estimated 100 million cubic meters of water and reaches a depth of 135 meters. Visitors flock to this stunning location, especially in winter when rivers, waterfalls, and lakes are blanketed in snow, providing perfect backdrops for photos, videos, and TikToks.
Chho Rolpa Himtal can be reached in three days from Charikot headquarters. Recently, the Swiss government has developed an accessible footpath from Chyot Chyot to Chho Rolpa Himtal.
Gaurishankar Himal
The mention of Dolakha instantly brings to mind the majestic Gauri Shankar. This 7,134-meter-high mountain marks an authentic point of reference for time in Nepal. For those seeking thrilling trekking experiences, the Gaurishankar Himal is sure to satisfy.
Bahula Pokhari
Bahula Pokhari, located near Ama Babhare Mountain in Alampu, is approximately 300 meters long and 200 meters wide, sheltered beneath a hard rock formation.
Its depth has yet to be determined. This pond is renowned for being home to the highest quality slate mine in Nepal, and it is believed that worshiping at this pond will fulfill one’s wishes.
(Courtesy of various media and websites)
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