Dolakha's centre hill district is both ecologically and culturally beautiful. Mount Gaurishankar, Nepal Standard Time, and the Rolwaling mountain range loom tall in the north.
The winding Tamakoshi River flows south and merges into the Koshi River. The Kalinchok Bhagwati Temple noted for its snowfall throughout the winter, is revered by the people as the "district shrine."
Introduction To Dolakha
Dolakha's district seat, Charikot, is approximately 133 kilometres east of Kathmandu. Travel the Araniko Highway until you reach Khadichaur, where the winding route ascends through rural villages and terraced farmlands.
Caption: Dolakha's Majestic Winter – A Sight to Behold
In Lakuridanda, Aahaldanda welcomes you to the Dolakha area and leads to Kharidhunga, which views the Rolwaling and Langtang mountain ranges.
During the winter, Kharidhunga, located at an elevation of about 2,700 meters above sea level, is blanketed with fluffy snow. As spring approaches, the rhododendron forests turn the landscape crimson.
Before arriving at Charikot, a mountainous town sitting at 1,970 meters above sea level, travellers are greeted by the fresh waterfalls of Hatti Chhahara and Charanawati.
According to legend, a Lama with divine abilities pondered in the area for an extended period. After a bird built a nest in the meditating Lama's beard, the location was called Charikot, which means "bird's nest."
Every Saturday morning, Charikot, which many compare to Darjeeling in India, holds a Haat Bazaar where local products—both agricultural and non-agricultural—are bought and sold. Kotihom, a sacred site established by Kalinchok Baba, who, legend has it, attained enlightenment after meditating for 12 years on just water, milk, and sugar sweets, is a must-see. Shankhadhar Sakhwa, Nepal Sambat, is commemorated with a statue in Charikot's chowks named after him.
The Tutepani village, a mainly Newar population, lies nearby and is regarded as a living museum by many. Charighyang in Charikot offers several well-equipped hotels and lodges. According to Sundar Khadka, previous chairman of the Dolakha Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Charikot's hotels can comfortably accommodate 2,000 guests. Charikot offers an excellent market for shopping and a variety of eateries for dining.
Kalinchowk View Point
Kalinchowk is a naturalist's and religious tourist's dream. It's 17 kilometres from Charikot and has high altitude woods, colourful villages, brooks, and terraced farmlands.
Kalinchowk, at 3,842 meters above sea level, offers an excellent view of the Rolwaling and Langtang mountain ranges. From here, one may see magnificent sunrises and sunsets.
Caption: Pristine Snow Blankets the Serene Hills of Kalinchowk
Kalinchowk is an excellent place to experience snowfall. The region is usually busy on weekends, especially when it is covered in deep snow. According to Sonam Sherpa, a local hotelier, the Kalinchowk region has 40 hotels to accommodate around 5,000 guests.
If Kalinchowk is overcrowded, travellers must travel as far as Charikot and Dolakha Bazaar for food and lodging. Aside from the hotel cuisine, guests may sample and savour local foods like dindo, roti, native potato, Chauri's milk, ghee, and chhurpi.
From Kathmandu, there is a frequent bus service to Kalinchok. Kalinchok vacation packages are available from a variety of travel firms. They charge around Rs 17,000 per person to transport guests in nice light cars.
Dolakha Bazaar's Heritage
Dolakha Bazaar, known as Abhayapur in ancient times, is regarded as the district's crown gem. Dolakha Bazaar, located 4 kilometres east of Charikot, is home to the renowned Bhimeshwor Temple, the Bhimsen Temple.
A massive stone pillar constructed on the temple grounds is a marvel in and of itself. Many people think that if the statue of Bhimeshwor sweats, political changes or natural calamities will occur.
Dolakha Bazaar is brimming with heritage treasures going back to the Lichchhavi, Malla, and Shah Dynasties, including monuments, traditional architecture, old-style Newari settlements, and its tradition, culture, and language. Dolakha Bazaar also offers a typical Newari-style guesthouse and about 15 hotels.
Journey to Jiri
Jiri, located 55 kilometres east of Charikot and previously the access point to the Everest area, is eager to welcome travellers into its tranquil setting. To entice guests, the local hotel association provided a 50% discount on hotels and lodges.
Caption: Nepal's Jiri Breathtaking Canvas of Greens
The climate and geography of Jiri, named after an indigenous hamlet called Jirel, are likened to those of Zurich, Switzerland. Except for a few snowy days in the winter, the climate is mild. Visitors are drawn in by the gorgeous scenery, pleasant environment, and kind people.
Jiri's notable attractions are Buddha Park, Gurans Park, Stone Park, Buldanda, and Sikri Hanumante Park. According to Jirel, the municipality intends to maintain Jirel tribes' traditional customs and traditions to boost tourism. There are many hotels in Jiri that price between Rs 500 and 2,500 per night for a room, and a Nepali Dal-Bhat set costs between Rs 250 and 350.
Sailung
Sailung Danda is perhaps only second to Kalinchok as a place to experience snowfall. Sailung's tourist traffic is increasing due to improved road connections and the provision of basic amenities. On a vast flat region, there are several hilltops. However, because tourism infrastructure in the area is not fully established, travellers must make do with the essentials of food and housing. However, Dhunge Bazaar, which is close, provides all of the amenities that Sailung may lack.
Important Tips
How to Reach Dolakha?
From Kathmandu, the main tourist sites in Dolakha can be reached via bus.
Where to stay at Dolakha?
Charikot, Dolakha Bazaar, Kalinchok, and Jiri all have plenty of hotels.
What to eat at Dolakha?
The hotels and homestays provide Nepalese cuisine with local chickens, such as dal, bhat, and tarkari. Dhindo and gundruk can be ordered.