Kalinchowk Tour
Kalinchowk Tour
Nestled at an elevation of 3,700 meters in Dolakha District, Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Durga (Bhagwati). Accessible via a moderate 4-5 hour trek from Kuri village or Charikot, the temple overlooks the sacred Kalinchowk Kunda (pond), believed to grant wishes and cleanse sins. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks of the Rolwaling Himalayas, including Gaurishankar, this site draws thousands during festivals like Bala Chaturdashi (November-December) for ritual bathing and fairs. The journey from Kathmandu offers scenic Tamakoshi River views and Tamang cultural encounters. This full-day or overnight tour combines spiritual devotion, high-altitude adventure, and panoramic vistas—ideal for pilgrims and trekkers seeking a serene escape into Nepal’s sacred mountains.
- Sacred Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple with ancient stone idols and wish-fulfilling pond (Kalinchowk Kunda)
- Breathtaking 360° Himalayan views from the temple ridge, including Gaurishankar (7,134m)
- Moderate trek through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and Tamang villages
- Ritual immersion in the holy pond for purification and blessings
- Seasonal festivals: Vibrant fairs, processions, and local Tamang dances during Dashain/Tihar
- Optional horse/pony rides for easier ascent; photography spots at viewpoints
- Nearby attractions: Bhimeshwor Temple in Dolakha and Charikot viewpoint
- Eco-friendly pilgrimage with community homestays and sustainable practices
Included
- Round-trip transportation from Kathmandu (private AC jeep/SUV)
- Professional English/Nepali-speaking guide and porter (for groups)
- All temple entry fees, puja materials, and permits
- Meals as per itinerary (breakfast/lunch on drive, full meals at teahouse)
- Basic overnight accommodation in teahouse/homestay if selected (twin share, blankets provided)
- Bottled water, first-aid kit, and all local taxes
Not Included
- Personal expenses (e.g., pony rides $20/person, extra offerings)
- Optional activities (e.g., helicopter transfer, festival special pujas)
- Travel insurance (mandatory for high-altitude trekking)
- Gratuities for guide/porter (recommended $10-15/person/day)
- Alcoholic beverages or non-included meals
- Domestic flight to Dolakha if preferred over road
Itinerary (Timeline)
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05:00 AMDeparture from Kathmandu
Early morning pickup from your hotel. Scenic 5-6 hour drive to Dhunge (near Kuri village) via Araniko Highway and Tamakoshi River valley. Breakfast en route at a roadside dhaba.
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11:00 AMArrival & Trek Start
Begin 4-5 hour moderate trek (8 km) from Kuri to Kalinchowk Temple. Pass through pine forests, streams, and viewpoints. Lunch picnic-style midway.
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04:00 PMTemple Exploration & Rituals
Arrive at temple: Guided puja (offerings) at Bhagwati shrine, dip in Kalinchowk Kunda pond. Sunset views over Rolwaling range. Optional evening aarti.
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07:00 PMDinner & Overnight (if extending)
Dinner with local dal bhat and herbal tea at a teahouse or homestay. Rest for stargazing. For day tour: Descend 2 hours to base camp for night halt.
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05:00 AMNext Day Sunrise Hike & Return or Overnight Option
Early morning rituals and sunrise panorama. Breakfast, then 4-5 hour descent. Drive back to Kathmandu (arrival by evening).
October-November for festivals and dry trails (5-15°C, crisp); March-May for blooms. Winters snowy (closed Dec-Feb); monsoons slippery. Pack thermals, rain gear, trekking poles, and sunscreen. Early starts for best light.
Moderate trek (4-5 hours uphill)—fit families ok; kids over 8 welcome with ponies. Limited mobility: Pony/porter essential; no wheelchairs. Seniors with good health can manage descent first. Notify for custom pacing.
Breakfast/lunch on drive, dinner at teahouse (dal bhat, veggies, roti). Vegetarian standard; inform for vegan/Jain (no onion/garlic). High-altitude: Hydrate with herbal teas; no alcohol advised.
Full refund up to 48 hours prior; 50% within 24 hours; no-show non-refundable (weather-dependent). Book via website/email with 20% deposit—check festival dates. Includes weather updates.