The beauty of Nepal: Dolakha

Dolakha, located in the north-eastern part of the country has been one of the most beloved destinations for both domestic and international tourists. It is popular for its natural hiking trails, seasonal snow-clad hills, religious sites, and many more. People from all around the world come to visit and enjoy the beauty of Dolakha and one can never get tired of traveling to this place again and again.

According to a local resident Saugat Thapa, “The number of tourists has increased exponentially since the road that links Charikot to Kalinchwok has been built. Before that, travelers had to hike for a whole day to their destination. Even though the highway from Kathmandu to Charikot is in a terrible condition, travelers are still enthusiastic for the journey.”

Not only is Dolakha famous for its historical and religious sites, but also for the hiking and trekking trails it presents.

Here are some of the most loved spots to visit in Dolakha.

1) Bhimsen Temple

Just 4.5 kilometers to the east of the headquarters is the famous Bhimsensthan. The temple is devoted to Bhimsen, the second brother among the Pandavas from the Hindu epic, Mahabharata. It resembles three deities: Bhimeshwar in the morning, Mahadev throughout the day, and Narayan in the evening. The reason for the popularity of this temple is that Bhimsen warns the country about bad omens by perspiring fluid-like drops from time to time and tries to protect the nation. Throughout history, whenever the statue of Bhimsen sweats, some dreadful events have taken place in the country. In 1951, towards the end of the Rana regime, the idol is believed to have sweated and it was also recorded that the idol was sweating a few days ahead of the Royal Massacre that killed the royal family of King Birendra.

2) Kalinchwok Bagawati

Located at the altitude of 3842 kilometers (12,605 ft) above sea level is Kalinchwok Bagawati. This temple is dedicated to Hindu Goddess Kali, goddess of time, death, and doomsday. According to the myth, it is believed that Goddess Kali used to meditate on the top hill of Kalinchwok on Sumeru Parvat. The temple is famous for the fulfillment of pilgrims' prayers and desires. It is also believed that in the Dwapar Yuga, the Pandavas came here for meditation. Kalinchwok is not only a religious site; one can also enjoy astonishing views of the Gaurishankar Mountain Range, Rolwaling Himal with Melungtse (on the Tibetan side), and Numbur Peak, Ganesh Himal, and many more. The rhododendron flowers add beauty to the luscious green hills during spring while being able to view the mesmerizing sunrise and sunsets.

3) Sailung

Popular for its hundred little hillocks, Sailung is located at an altitude of 3150 meters (10,334.65 ft). It is famous for Sailungeshwor Mahadev, a form of Lord Shiva, dwelling over Sailung looking out at the Himalayas. Devotees visit this place on Janai Purnima, Bala Chaturdashi, and the Bara Barse Mela which take place every 12 years. This place is mostly famous for its natural view tower that gives travelers a panoramic view of Mt. Everest, Gaurishankar, Dorje, Lakpa, Langtang, Manaslu, and many more mountains. One can also see the Kathmandu Valley and Terai plains on a clear day.

4) Jiri

Famous as Switzerland of Nepal, Jiri is one of the most visited places in Dolakha district located just 58 kilometers away from the headquarters. It is popular among visitors for its panoramic views, churpi and cheese made from yak milk. Back in 1938, the Swiss Government’s aid set Jiri as an agricultural development center. Since then it has been well known for its technical education regarding agriculture, construction, and animal health. It is also referred to as the “Gateway to Mt. Everest”, as early mountaineers passed through Jiri to reach Mt. Everest and many other treks in the region as well.