Kalinchowk Kuri Village, located in Dolakha district, is one of Nepal’s most beautiful and spiritual destinations. At the heart of this region lies the Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple (3,842m), a sacred shrine that holds religious, historical, natural, and touristic importance. Every year, thousands of devotees and travelers visit this hidden gem to experience both spiritual blessings and Himalayan adventure.
✨ History and Legends of Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple
There are some legends about Kalinchowk Bhagwati, which is located at an altitude of Kalinchowk 3,842 meters above sea level.
In ancient times, when sheep were brought from Kuti to Khasa, they had to be brought from Kalinchowk. When they reached here, seven sheep had disappeared. After that, it is believed that the sheep stopped disappearing after the shepherds offered abir, keshari, and offerings. Local Makardhwaj Tamang says that after that, the worship of Kalinchowk Bhagwati began.
Experts say that Kalinchowk is the place mentioned in the Kamachal Giri Himavat section of the Skanda Purana as the Himalayas and Kalinjar in the Kali Purana. According to them, Kalinchowk is the place where Parvati killed the demon after performing penance for three thousand years.
A special fair is held here on Janaipurna and Krishnashtami. Locals say that a large crowd of Dhamijhakris gather at the fair, while other devotees also come to ask for boons for children, wealth, and education.
No idol of Bhagwati can be seen here. There is a tank that remains water for twelve months, which devotees worship as Kalinchowk Bhagwati.
An 18-kilometer unpaved road has been constructed between Charikot and Kuri. Hundreds of hotels and lodges have been built in Kuri. A cable car has also been arranged to reach the temple from Kuri.
The local government is working hard to develop it as an important and safe, religious and tourist destination. With the construction of the cable car in Kalinchowk, the number of visitors to this area has increased.
With the increase in the pressure of domestic and foreign tourists, investment in hotels is increasing here. Road networks have also started connecting from the surrounding Indrawati, Lapilang, and Kalinchowk rural municipalities. A master plan has also been made to plant trees for greenery.
There is movement from Kathmandu, and now arrangements are being made to move from Jhapa to the south as a package, informed the rural municipality chairman Arjun Siwakoti.
sunset view from kuri
Even without taking the cable car, one can easily reach the Kalinchowk Bhagwati place by walking uphill for about an hour from Kuri Bazaar. Kalinchowk Bhagwati is known as a beautiful and religiously important place in the Dolakha district. Standing in the courtyard of Kalinchowk Mata and seeing the line of mountains from east to west, everyone who reaches here feels like they have reached heaven.
Jeeps, cars, and motorcycles can be driven on the unpaved road. Minibuses can also be used occasionally during the dry season. However, there is no regular public transport available on this route.
After about an hour’s walk from Charikot, you reach Deurali Bhanjyang. There are only 3-4 shops in Deurali. After climbing up from there, you will not find any shops on the way until you reach Kuri. From there, you have to walk through a dense forest.
After about five hours of climbing, you finally reach Kuri. Kuri is a place to stay. Many hotels have opened here. After staying in Kuri, you can climb Kalinchowk Hill at 5/6 in the morning. After the sun sets, it becomes difficult to climb the steep hill.
In winter, you can also go here by reserving a motorcycle or a car. But the road is very risky. The stone-paved road is very steep. Since it takes about three hours even by car, it is a different pleasure to walk to this place.
The dispute over who owns the land around Kuri, including the community forest and the Guthi, has not been resolved. Amid the dispute, the Land Revenue Office related to the Guthi has arranged for a priest to secure the donations.
Fairs and Festivals
Special fairs are held during Janai Purnima and Krishna Ashtami. These festivals attract a large number of pilgrims, shamans (Dhami-Jhakris), and tourists who come to seek blessings at the sacred water tank that remains full year-round.
️ Natural Beauty and Kuri Village
Kalinchowk is not only a religious site but also a paradise for nature lovers. From the temple’s courtyard, you can witness majestic Himalayan ranges stretching from east to west. In winter, Kuri Village is covered with snow, turning it into a mini Switzerland of Nepal.
Kuri has become the main stopover for trekkers. Dozens of hotels, lodges, and homestays are available here. Travelers usually stay in Kuri and climb to Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple early in the morning to enjoy breathtaking sunrise views.
Kalinchowk Cable Car
A major attraction today is the Kalinchowk cable car, which operates from Kuri Bazaar to the temple. This has made the journey easier, especially for elderly pilgrims. However, many still prefer to hike for about an hour uphill to enjoy the authentic trekking experience.
How to Reach Kalinchowk
- Distance from Kathmandu: 182 km
- Kathmandu to Charikot (Dolakha HQ): Public bus or private jeep (approx. Rs 450)
- Charikot to Kuri Bazaar: 17 km unpaved road (Bolero jeeps, motorbikes available)
- Kuri to Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple: 1-hour hike or cable car
Vehicles like jeeps, cars, and motorbikes can reach Kuri, but the road is steep and risky in winter. During the dry season, minibuses may also operate.
Accommodation and Food in Kuri
- Hotels & Lodges: More than 100 options in Kuri Village
- Homestays: Affordable choices with local Tamang culture experience
- Food: Dal-Bhat, noodles, tea, and local snacks at uniform prices
Pro Tip: Stay in Kuri overnight, start the hike to the temple at 5–6 AM for sunrise, and avoid climbing after sunset.
❄️ Best Time to Visit Kalinchowk
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Snow-covered landscapes, perfect for photography & snow adventure
- Festivals (Janai Purnima, Krishna Ashtami): Ideal for cultural and spiritual experience
- Spring/Autumn: Clear skies and panoramic Himalayan views
⚡ Things to Know Before You Go
- Altitude: 3,842 meters – walk slowly to avoid altitude sickness
- Carry warm clothes, especially in winter
- No regular public buses to Kuri – reserve a jeep or use local vehicles
- Trekking through dense forest from Charikot adds adventure
- Land ownership disputes exist in Kuri, but tourism is growing rapidly
Conclusion
Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple and Kuri Village are among the most sacred and scenic travel destinations in Nepal. From spiritual blessings to natural beauty, this journey offers everything — pilgrimage, adventure, snow, culture, and breathtaking mountain views.
Whether you hike the forest trails, ride the cable car, or simply enjoy the snow in Kuri, a trip to Kalinchowk is truly an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience.
❓ FAQ About Kalinchowk Bhagwati
Q1: What is the altitude of Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple?
3,842 meters above sea level.
Q2: How far is Kalinchowk from Kathmandu?
About 182 km (6–7 hours by road).
Q3: Is there a cable car in Kalinchowk?
Yes, the Kalinchowk cable car connects Kuri to the temple.
Q4: Where can I stay in Kalinchowk?
Hotels, lodges, and homestays are available in Kuri Village.
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