Dalchoki: The Haven of Sacred Heights and Scenic Sights

Ever wondered what the hills beyond Kathmandu Valley, the capital city of Nepal, look like? Well then, you don’t have to think too much. Get your ride and enjoy the most memorable adventure to Dalchoki- a paradise on the outskirts of Kathmandu’s Hills.

Located at an elevation of 2300 meters, the Dalchoki Hills is a haven of unmatchable natural beauty and unique experiences. With the increasing popularity of local homestays and new luxury resorts under construction, this place has recently gotten much attention from wanderers.

Whether you want a quick getaway from your office or a good location for a family picnic, these hills in the Lalitpur district are ideal. You can trek for 5 hours to this location or take an hour’s ride.

Let’s unveil Dalchoki, this haven of sacred heights and scenic sights, in this blog.

History Behind Dalchoki

Many of you might not know this, but Dalchoki Hills played a part in Nepal’s unification. Oh yes! You heard it right.

According to legends, this hill is the point from which King Prithvi Narayan Shah attacked Kathmandu. We all know that the king thought of attacking the valley from Chandragiri, but the actual point from where the attack was initiated and the unification could happen was Dalchoki.

Since the troops were called “Dal” in Nepal, they had a check post (choki means check post in Nepali) in this place. Hence, this hill got its name Dalchoki.

Besides, there are three hills surrounding Kathmandu that hold religious values, and Dalchoki is one of them. It is also known for Dalchoki Devi, a goddess of these hills.

Unmissable Wonders of Dalchoki Hill

When it comes to raw and obscure experiences of nature or people, one cannot remain limited to the mundane lifestyle of the city. That’s exactly what staying in the divine hills of Dalchoki will give you.

From immeasurable natural beauty to the lifestyle of the local inhabitants to the scary roads leading to this haven, this place has got it all to take your breath away.  Here are some unmissable wonders you must experience at least once in your excursion to Kathmandu.

Consistently Shifting Weather

The first thing you will notice as soon as you enter the Dalchoki Hills is its rapidly changing weather. One minute, you will see the bright, scorching sun; the next, there will be floating clouds and a cold breeze.

From this beautiful location, you can literally see the sun playing hide-and-seek among the clouds, which often makes you feel like you are above them.

And don’t forget to take your warm jacket as this place will likely make you feel cold even on warm days because of the unpredictable weather.

It is often the reason why people sometimes don’t see the mountains too. If you also face it then just have some patience and wait for the weather to clear out,

Spectacular Mountain Views

What’s the point of climbing a hill in Nepal if you can’t see the mountains, right? The green hills of Dalchoki are all about mountain views after the momentarily changing weather.

Once you’ve reached the top of the hill, you can catch a spectacular panorama of snow-covered mountains. You will be able to see the Langtang Lirung , Mount Shishapangma, Dorje Lakpa peak, and Ganesh Himal very clearly.

While on the drive, stop by the roadside and enjoy the magical views. If you don’t see it right away, don’t lose hope. As the weather clears, you will be able to catch the sight, so just wait for a few minutes.

Thrilling Ride to Dalchoki

Not just the destination, the route you take to Dalchoki is adventurous in itself. Even though there’s an adequately pitched road, the sharp turns and layered hills will give you a chill as you ascend or descend.

Most of the road takes you through a dense forest filled with lush vegetation and terraced fields. You will feel the light breeze and clear air through your ride and back. And if you take the ride back down the hill at night, you can also catch a breathtaking city view.

Beware of the wild animals while driving in the forest, especially at night!

Alluring Rhododendron Forests

The Rhododendron forests are another major attraction of the Dalchoki hills. You can see them on your ride to the heights or on your hiking trail.

However, you must visit during the spring season (usually from March to May) to catch sight of this national flower of Nepal. If you find it beside the roadside, take a pause and click a picture with the red rhododendrons in the backdrop.

Snowfall in Winter

Dalchoki is a must-see in every season. In summer, the sight of mountains and rhododendron forests will leave you speechless, whereas the snowfall is the highlight of winter.

You will be able to see powdery snow falling on the balcony of your homestay and play with it. However, the locals say snowfall is a rare occurrence on these hills, and you’ll be able to catch it every alternate year.

Pilgrimage Sites

Apart from its rich natural heritage, the Dalchoki hill is also a famous pilgrimage site for local residents. The Tikabhairab temple on the way to this hill, the Dalchoki Devi temple, the Dalchoki Manakamana, and the Dalchoki Pathivara are some of the popular religious sites of this region.

The Manakamana Mandir here is a Hindu temple and a famous hiking destination. Not only pilgrims but enthusiastic hikers also visit this place to quench their thirst for thrill.

Cultural Immersion in Tamang Village

The Tamang village, located on these hills, is another major attraction of Dalchoki. If you are hiking on this hill, you will come across this village on your way, but if you are taking a ride, you should stop at the Dalchoki Hills Resort construction site and take the narrow trail to explore the village.

The simplistic lifestyle and warm hospitality of the Tamang people will undoubtedly win your hearts.

If you want to learn more about Tamang people and their heritages, you can book a Tamang Heritage and Langtang Valley Tour with Awesome Holidays Nepal.

How to Get to Dalchoki?

Getting to Dalchoki isn’t as complicated as the complex weather of this place. You have an option to take a scenic drive or hike through the forest trails.

For driving, there are two different routes starting from the ring road of Kathmandu. Ekantakuna or Chapagaun Dobato are the two main entrances, both of which eventually lead to the road connecting to Dalchoki.

If you take the Ekantakuna route, you can also explore the traditional Newari villages of Bungmati and Khokana. And if you take the Chapagaun Dobato route, you can explore the old rustic houses of this small town in Lalitpur city.

Best Places to Stay in Dalchoki

Dalchoki Hills Resort

“Above the Hills, Amidst the Greens”

Once the construction is completed, the Dalchoki Hills Resort will be one of the best places to stay in Dalchoki. The resort is being constructed at this beautiful location with the intent of flourishing the magical ambiance, captivating sights of the mountain, and local lifestyle of the Tamang villages.

You can enjoy the Rhododendron forests, the beauty of nature, and a luxurious stay at this hillside resort. Book your stay for a fun weekend getaway or a memorable family trip at this lavish property.

Homestays

Since the popularity of this local site as a good weekend getaway destination, homestays have become popular in this area. The Dalchoki homestay is one of the most popular ones, and you will often come across it on social media.

Dalchoki Homestay

People claim that the Dalchoki homestay is the only place you can stay and enjoy. Even though this place isn’t luxurious, people often visit for weekend getaways and celebrations.

On a chilly day, you can enjoy a bonfire, warm drinks, and snacks with your friends. This place also has rooms to accommodate guests. But make sure to book in advance, as the rooms are limited, and you might not get it at the last minute.

Not to mention, the view of mountain peaks from this homestay is stunning. You can also watch ravishing sunsets and beautiful sunrises from this homestay.

A Go-to Place for Every Season

May it be the freezing winter or a bright sunny season, there is always something to watch and a handful of activities to do on the green hills of Dalchoki.

Take a hike in the Rhododendron Forest to satisfy your wanderlust, or get lost in the clouds hovering over the hills; every experience will be memorable.

If you are planning a vacation or a weekend gathering, climb on the sacred heights of Dalchoki. And don’t forget to capture the scenic sights too!

Keep exploring!