Dhankuta district in eastern Nepal, is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore Nepal’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. This district is part of the Koshi Province, east of Nepal, known for its panoramic landscapes, dense green hills, and traditional Nepali villages. Domestic tourists of eastern Nepal highly favor this district, and now, it attracts many international tourists. Due to an enormous richness of natural resources and cultural heritages, Dhankuta deserves to be a must-visit destination in Nepal.
Amazing Places to Visit in Dhankuta District
Exploring Dhankuta’s treasures is an adventure of its own. Let’s dive into the top destinations that make Dhankuta an unforgettable journey of natural beauty and cultural richness. From the stunning Bhedetar to the spiritual haven of Jalpa Devi Temple, each place has its unique story, promising an experience that captures both the heart and soul.
1. Bhedetar
Bhedetar is a popular hill station & a tourist destination located about 26 kilometers from Dhankuta Bazar at the Dhankuta-Sunari border. It welcomes thousands of tourists from around the country every year. Standing at an altitude of 1,420 meters, Bhedetar is known for its unpredictable weather. It is often covered by quickly moving fog for short moments.
When the weather is clear, you can see the plain area of nearby Terai. Moreover, you can also view snow-capped mountains like Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Kumbhakarna, and so on. The place is known for its cool and pleasant climate, making it a perfect escape from the hot and humid weather of the Terai region. If you need a few days of relief from the hot summer weather, there is no place better than Bhedetar.
2. Namaste Waterfall
Namaste Waterfall, nature’s artwork, is another beautiful attraction in the Dhankuta district. The crystal-clear water cascading down from 80 meters creates a mesmerizing scene that enchants you. This 80-meter-long waterfall is at a distance of 8 km from Bhedetar. The surrounding lush vegetation and the soothing sound of water add to the serenity of the place. People, especially from Dharan, Sunsari, Morang, and Ilam, visit this place not just to take selfies but also for picnics. You have to pay a certain amount to enter this beautiful site.
3. Rajarani Lake
Rajarani Lake is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Dhankuta and eastern Nepal. It is also called Rani Tal. Green hills surround the lake and offer a peaceful and tranquil environment. It is a perfect spot for boating, fishing, and picnicking. The lake has several birds and animals, including ducks, geese, and turtles.
People from Dharan, Dhankuta, Udaypur, Jhapa, Ilam, Biratnagar, etc., come here to observe this beautiful site. Especially on Saturdays, you can find Rajarani bustling with countless people.
4. Hile and Pakhribas
Hile and Pakhribas are two beautiful villages located in the Dhankuta district. The distance from Hile to Pakhribas is approximately 5.0 km. These villages are known for their traditional Nepali architecture, terraced fields, and beautiful landscapes. Hile is a popular stopover for trekkers heading to the Makalu Barun National Park. Pakhribas is known for its agriculture and is a great place to learn about the traditional farming practices of Nepal. It is also home to several trekking trails offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Like Bhedetar, these two places are also appreciated for their frosty climate. This little town stands out on top of a hill with a tall Tongba statue at Tongba Chowk. Hile is well known for Tongba, which is best suited for its cold weather. Likewise, Hile Monastery is a significant attraction site in Hile Bazar of Dhankuta. The majority of the population belongs to Tamang and Sherpa communities.
5. Jalpa Devi Temple (Chintang Devi Temple)
The Jalpa Devi Temple, also known as the Chintang Devi Temple, is a famous Hindu temple in the Chintang VDC of Dhankuta district. It is about 8 kilometers from Hile Bazar. It is dedicated to Goddess Jalpa Devi, a form of Goddess Durga. The temple is said to be over 1000 years old and is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus from all over Nepal. The temple is visited by thousands of devotees every year, hoping for the fulfillment of their wishes, especially during the Dashain festival. Moreover, Kanya Devi Temple, near Jalpadevi Temple, is an equally popular site.
6. Dhoje Hill (Danda)
One of the places for a perfect panoramic view is Dhoje Hill (Danda), a scenic hill located in Dhankuta district, Nepal. It is the second-highest hill in Nepal after Antu Danda. The hill offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and mountains, including Mount Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, Kanchenjunga, Kumbhakarna, and Manaslu.
The best time to visit Dhoje Hill is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) seasons. The weather is mild and clear during these seasons, making it perfect for enjoying the views.You can drive from Dharan, which is about 29 kilometers away. Once you reach Danda Bazaar, you must hike for about an hour to reach the top of the hill.
How to Reach Dhankuta? Know the Distance of Dhankuta
Dhankuta is well connected by road from major cities like Kathmandu, Biratnagar, and Dharan. The distance from Kathmandu to Dhankuta is approximately 400 km, and can be reached by bus or private vehicle. There are regular bus services from Kathmandu to Dhankuta. The nearest airport to Dhankuta is the Tumlingtar Airport, about 40 km away. One can take a taxi or local bus from the airport to Dhankuta.
The approximate road distance between Dhankuta and other major cities of Nepal & India is as follows:
- Pokhara: 550 kilometers
- Biratnagar: 90 kilometers
- Nepalgunj: 800 kilometers
- Butwal: 560 kilometers
- Darjeeling: 225 kilometers
- Gangtok: 295 kilometers
Accommodations: Best Hotels in Dhankuta
Dhankuta offers a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s preferences. Whether you’re looking for luxurious resorts or budget-friendly guesthouses, Dhankuta has it all. Some hotels provide stunning views, warm hospitality, and a taste of local cuisine. Staying in the hotels adds extra comfort to your Dhankuta experience.
To secure your stay and book hotels in Dhankuta for your upcoming journey, feel free to reach out to Holiday Pasal. Your delightful experience in Dhankuta begins with the perfect accommodation choice.
Planning Your Trip: Tips and Recommendations
- The best time to visit Dhankuta district is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear.
- Carry light woolen clothes as the temperature can drop in the evenings.
- If you plan to trek in the region, carry all the necessary trekking gear and equipment.
- Respect the local culture and traditions. Do not litter, and try to minimize your environmental impact.
Conclusion
Dhankuta is a beautiful district with a lot to offer to its visitors. From picturesque landscapes, waterfalls, and lakes to traditional villages and temples, there is something for everyone in Dhankuta. So, pack your bags and head to Dhankuta district for an unforgettable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Dhankuta Also Known As?
Dhankuta is known as the ‘Queen of Hills’ due to its beautiful hilly terrain and pleasant climate.
What Is the Famous Things of Dhankuta?
Dhankuta is famous for its beautiful landscapes, traditional Nepali villages, and agricultural products like oranges, tea, and cardamom.
What Is the Altitude of Dhankuta?
The altitude of Dhankuta Bazar, the district headquarters of Dhankuta, is approximately 1,200 meters above sea level.
Which Temple Is Famous in Dhankuta?
The Jalpa Devi Temple, also known as the Chintang Devi Temple, is a famous Hindu temple in Dhankuta.
What Is the Headquarter of Dhankuta?
The headquarters of Dhankuta district is Dhankuta Bazar.
How to Reach Dhankuta From Kathmandu?
Dhankuta can be reached by road from Kathmandu. The distance from Kathmandu to Dhankuta is approximately 400 km and can be covered by bus or private vehicle. There are regular bus services from Kathmandu to Dhankuta. Also, you can take a flight to the nearest Airport, i.e., Tumlingtar Airport.
