Kalinchowk Kuri Village Trek

Kalinchowk Kuri Village, nestled in the Dolakha district of Nepal, beckons trekkers with its enchanting blend of natural beauty and religious significance. Perched at an elevation of approximately 3,842 meters, the village boasts the revered Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple, dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati, attracting pilgrims, especially during the Kalinchowk Bhagwati Jatra festival.

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Good To Know

  • Duration 3 days
  • Activity Trekking
  • Difficulty Type Easy
  • Best Season Spring and autumn
  • Max. Altitude 3842 m
  • Accommodation Deluxe Hotels & Tea house
  • Meal Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Trip Starts Kathmandu

Kalinchowk Kuri Village, nestled in the Dolakha district of Nepal, beckons trekkers with its enchanting blend of natural beauty and religious significance. Perched at an elevation of approximately 3,842 meters, the village boasts the revered Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple, dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati, attracting pilgrims, especially during the Kalinchowk Bhagwati Jatra festival. The trek from Charikot, Dolakha’s district headquarters, unfolds a mesmerizing journey through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and terraced fields. 

Commencing from Kathmandu, the three-day trek unfolds with a scenic 6-7 hour drive to the east, traversing picturesque villages, valleys, crystalline rivers, bridges, winding roads, and captivating viewpoints such as Khari Dhunga. The starting point of our trek is Makaibari, which also serves as the locale for our initial overnight stay. This area is in close proximity to Charikot, the capital of the Dolakha district.

The subsequent day launches our hike towards the destination, encompassing a 6-7 hour trek to the charming village of Kuri. Along the way, participants encounter panoramic mountain vistas and immerse themselves in the local culture and traditions of the residents. While the trekking trail is somewhat accessible by vehicle, adverse weather conditions during Kalinchowk snowfall can impede driving to Kuri village. Upon reaching this captivating village, we conclude the day with an overnight stay.

The climax of the Kalinchowk Trek -3 days unfolds on the third day, marked by an early morning ascent to the summit of Kalinchowk. Here, the Kalinchowk temple, prayer flags, and bells dedicated to the renowned Kalinchowk Bhagawati await. The hilltop offers awe-inspiring panoramic views of Langtang Himal, Ganesh Himal, Shisha Pangma, Dorje Lakpa, Jugal Himal, Gauri Shankar, and, on clear days, even the Kathmandu Valley. This zenith, at approximately 3842 meters, constitutes the highest point reached during the Kalinchowk Trek three days.

Kalinchowk Kuri Village Highlights 

1. Experience the charm of the picturesque Kuri village.

2. Embark on a trek amidst the lush scenery of the Gaurishankar conservation area.

3. Engage in skiing and other snow-based activities.

4. Delight in a cable car journey to reach the temple.

5. Uncover the fascinating mythology associated with both the temple and Kuri village.

Best time for Kalinchowk Kuri Village Trek

The best time to trek the Kalinchowk Kuri Village is during the spring and autumn seasons in Nepal. These periods offer the most favorable weather conditions, clear skies, and optimal temperatures for trekking.

Spring Season (March to May)

Spring is one of the most popular times to trek near Kathmandu, including the Kalichowk Kuri Village. During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is generally mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C.
  • Clear Views: The skies are often clear, providing stunning vistas of the Himalayan range, including peaks like Gaurishankar, Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, and Jugal Himal.
  • Flora: Spring is the peak blooming season. The park is renowned for its diverse flora, orchids, and numerous wildflowers. The trails are adorned with vibrant colors, making the trek visually appealing.
  • Crowds: Spring is a popular hiking season in Kalinchowok Kuri Village due to the pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. Therefore, expect moderate to heavy foot traffic on popular trails.

Autumn Season (September to November)

Autumn offers a rewarding trekking experience in Kalinchowk Kuri Village. During the season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is quite pleasant and comfortable to trek, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C.
  • Clear Views: Autumn is known for its crisp air, providing excellent visibility of the surrounding landscapes and distant Himalayan peaks.
  • Flora: Autumn offers vibrant flora. The forests are lush and green, you can observe a variety of plant species, including oaks, rhododendrons, and ferns.
  • Crowds: Autumn is a popular time for trekking in Nepal, as a result,  Kalinchowk Kuri Village trails remain more crowded compared to other trekking trails near Kathmandu.

Off-Season Considerations

While spring and autumn are the best time for the Kalinchowk Kuri Village, some trekkers prefer off-season trekking for a unique experience. However, these periods come with challenges:

  • Winter Season (December to February): Trekking in the winter season offers clear skies, excellent visibility, and fewer crowds than autumn and spring seasons. However, the cold can be challenging, and the flora is less vibrant.
  • Monsoon Season (June to August): The monsoon brings heavy rain, making the trail slippery and increasing the risk of landslides and leeches. The clouds and rain can also obstruct mountain views.

Overall, spring and autumn offer the best combination of weather, views, and cultural experiences, making them the ideal times to trek the Kalinchowk Kuri Village If you’re planning a trip during the off-season, be prepared for additional challenges and always check the weather forecasts and trail conditions in advance.

Itinerary

  • Accommodation
  • Max Altitude
  • Meal

The distance from Kathmandu to Charikot is around 150 kilometers, taking about 5-6 hours by road. The journey is characterized by scenic landscapes, winding roads, and glimpses of rural life. Charikot, nestled in the Dolakha district, offers a peaceful retreat with its traditional charm and stunning mountain views. An overnight stay allows for a deeper immersion into local culture and the opportunity to explore nearby attractions, making the journey more than just a commute but an experience in itself.

  • Accommodation
  • Max Altitude
  • Meal

The trek from Charikot to Kuri village spans approximately 15 kilometers and takes around 5 to 6 hours to complete. Starting in Charikot, trekkers traverse diverse landscapes, including hills, valleys, and quaint villages. The route offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks and provides insight into local culture. The estimated trek duration accounts for varying terrain and allows for a comfortable pace. Upon reaching Kuri village, nestled in the hills, trekkers can unwind, explore the village, and experience the tranquility of the surroundings. Overall, this trek combines adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion in the Dolakha district of Nepal.

  • Accommodation
  • Max Altitude
  • Meal

The journey from Kuri village to Kalinchowk is much less tiring compared to the previous day. By gradually ascending along the rocky path, you can reach the temple within 2 hours, gaining altitude along the way. If you manage to arrive on time, you’ll be treated to a mesmerizing sunrise, enhanced by the panoramic views of Gaurishankar and Ganesh Himal. After capturing this magical moment, you can receive blessings from Kalinchowk Bhagwati and revel in the splendid vistas from the hilltop. Following a few hours on the hill, you’ll descend back to Kuri village and spend the remainder of the day exploring this traditional village. Kuri offers awe-inspiring views of the Himalayas and provides insight into the daily lives of the locals.

  • Accommodation
  • Max Altitude
  • Meal

The Kalinchowk trek concludes today, signaling the time to say farewell to the majestic Himalayas. Ready your belongings as we embark on the descent to Charikot, retracing the path taken on the initial day. Our journey will culminate with a drive back to Kathmandu.

Inclusions

What’s Included

  • Accommodation: Accommodation in standard hotels in Kathmandu with breakfast included.
  • Transportation: All essential transportation during the trek, including pick-up and drop-off from your Kathmandu hotel to the trek’s starting point, as well as return transfer to Kathmandu.
  • Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the hike.
  • Experienced Guide: An experienced trekking guide with a good knowledge of the Kanlichown Kuri Village trek Route.
  • Trekking Permits: All necessary trekking permits.
  • First Aid: Basic first aid kit and emergency oxygen supply.

What’s Excluded

  • International Flights: The cost of international flights to and from Nepal is not included in the package.
  • Nepal Visa: The cost of obtaining a tourist visa for Nepal upon arrival at the airport is not included.
  • Personal Expenses: Additional snacks, beverages, souvenirs, and tips for guides and porters are not included.
  • Additional Activities: Any optional activities or extra sightseeing in Kathmandu are not included.
  • Trekking Gear: You may need to rent or purchase trekking gear if you do not have your own.
  • Extra Nights: Any additional nights of accommodation in Kathmandu outside the trek itinerary are not included.
  • Extra Costs Due to Delays: Costs incurred due to flight delays, road closures, or other unforeseen circumstances are not covered.
  • Personal Medications: Any personal medications or medical expenses are not included.

FAQs

The best time for the Kalinchowk-Kuri Village trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear, offering stunning views of the mountains.

The trek is considered moderate in terms of difficulty. While it does involve some uphill climbs and steep sections, it is suitable for most people with a reasonable level of fitness. However, it’s always a good idea to be prepared with proper gear and acclimatization.

Essentials include trekking boots, warm clothing, a sleeping bag, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a first aid kit, water purification tab;ets, and a flashlight. Don’t forget to bring some cash as ATM facilities may not be available in remote areas.

While it’s not mandatory to hire a guide for the Kalinchowk-Kuri Village trek, having one can enhance your experience, especially if you’re not familiar with the area. Guides can provide valuable insights into the local culture, assist with navigation, and ensure your safety.

Yes, solo trekking is possible on the Kalinchowk-Kuri Village route, but it’s recommended to go with at least one partner for safety reasons. Make sure to inform someone about your itinerary and check in regularly if you’re traveling alone.

Permits are not required for the Kalinchowk-Kuri Village trek. However, it’s always a good idea to check with local authorities or trekking agencies for any recent changes in regulations.