Welcome to Kalinchowk Bhagwati Shrine Guide

Located in the Dolkha district of Janakpur Zone in Nepal, Kalinchowk Bhagwati Shrine is a sacred Hindu temple situated at an altitude of approximately 3842 meters above sea level. This temple is dedicated to goddess Kali and is a prominent pilgrimage site for devotees.

How to Reach Kalinchowk Bhagwati Shrine

1. By Air:

   The nearest airport to Kalinchowk Bhagwati Shrine is Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. After arriving in Kathmandu, one can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Charikot/Dolkha which is closer to the shrine.

2. By Road:

   From Kathmandu, take a bus or a private vehicle to Charikot which is around 133 kilometers away and can take 5-6 hours. From Charikot, you can take a local jeep that travels to Kuri village. The journey may take around 3-4 hours. Alternatively, for adventure seekers, trekking from Charikot to the shrine is a popular option and it takes about 5-6 hours to reach Kuri village. From Kuri, travelers can hike up to the shrine, which takes around an hour.

3. By Trek:

   For those who are interested in trekking, the journey can be started from Charikot, and along the trail, you can witness spectacular views of the Himalayan range and the lush landscapes characteristic of the region. The trek passes through several small villages offering a chance to experience local culture.

Travel Tips

• Make sure to check the local weather forecast before planning your trip as the region can experience sudden weather changes.
• Carry warm clothing as temperatures can significantly drop, especially at night and at higher altitudes.
• It's advisable to take acclimatization breaks if you're not used to high altitudes to avoid altitude sickness.
• Local jeeps can be rough and the road conditions challenging, hence, it's recommended to hire a 4WD vehicle if traveling privately.
• Be respectful of the local culture and traditions, especially when visiting the shrine.

Accommodation

While the options for accommodation in Kuri village are limited, there are a few lodges and guest houses that provide basic facilities for an overnight stay. Booking in advance is recommended especially during the peak pilgrimage season.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Kalinchowk Bhagwati Shrine is from October to March when the weather is clear and offers good visibility. Winters can be extremely cold, and there might be snowfall, which adds to the beauty of the landscape but requires extra caution and preparation.