7 Reasons to Go for the Kalinchowk Trek in Nepal

Kalinchowk Trek Guide: Itinerary, Cost, Route & Best Time to Visit

The Kalinchowk trek offers a mix of scenic beauty and spiritual significance in Nepal’s Dolakha district. Popular among both trekkers and pilgrims, it features a short route, sweeping Himalayan views, and the sacred Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple.

Located around 150 kilometers from Kathmandu, Kalinchowk is accessible throughout the year. If you’re hoping to see snow, visit in winter (December to February) when the hills turn white. For clear skies and blooming rhododendrons, spring (March to May) is ideal.

The route starts in Charikot and stretches roughly 12 km to the temple. Though the trail has some steep sections, it’s generally considered easy to moderate, suitable even for beginners.

In terms of cost, budget-friendly trekking packages start from NPR 5,000 to NPR 7,000 per person. These typically include round-trip transport, meals, and lodging. For more comfort, private jeeps and upgraded accommodations are available at a higher price.

Whether you’re in it for the views or the pilgrimage, this trek offers a rewarding short getaway into the mountains. And if the weather’s clear, you’ll get panoramic views of Langtang, Gaurishankar, and even Mount Everest.

Learn more about treks near Kathmandu

Explore Kalinchowk: A Scenic Pilgrimage and Himalayan Getaway

This route takes you through the hills of Dolakha, combining high-altitude scenery with religious heritage. The Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple, perched at 3,842 meters, is the spiritual highlight of the journey. From here, trekkers can enjoy unobstructed views of several Himalayan ranges.

Quick Facts About Kalinchowk

• Location: Dolakha District, Nepal

• Altitude: 3,842 meters

• Best Time to Visit: October to March (snow), March to May (spring)

• Starting Point: Charikot

• Trek Distance: Approx. 12 km (Charikot to Kalinchowk)

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

• Main Attraction: Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple

How to Reach Kalinchowk from Kathmandu

The distance from Kathmandu to Kalinchowk is about 150 km, which takes roughly 5 to 6 hours by road. From Charikot, it’s a 12-kilometer trek, usually completed in 4–5 hours.

Best Time to Visit Kalinchowk for Snowfall

For snowfall, the best months are December through February. During this time, Kalinchowk transforms into a winter destination, popular for snow trekking and photography.

Kalinchowk Trek Cost & Tour Packages

• Starting Price: USD 375

• Duration: 3 Days

• Budget Package (Shared Transport & Lodging): NPR 5,000–7,000

• Luxury Options: Higher, based on accommodation and vehicle type

• Bus Fare (Kathmandu to Kalinchowk): NPR 500–1,000

Compare Kalinchowk trek packages here

Suggested 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Charikot (5–6 hours). Overnight at Charikot.
Day 2: Trek to Kuri Village (4–5 hours). Overnight stay.
Day 3: Early morning trek to Kalinchowk Temple (2 hours). After visiting, return to Kuri and drive back to Kathmandu.

Kalinchowk Weather and Temperature

• Winter: Can drop as low as -5°C

• Spring/Autumn: Generally between 5°C and 15°C
  Pack layers and warm gear if visiting in colder months.

Alternative Treks Near Kalinchowk

• Kalindi Khal Trek: A tough, high-altitude trail in Uttarakhand, India.

• Kalicho Pass Trek: Remote and rugged, ideal for experienced trekkers.

• Kanchenjunga Trek: A longer, more challenging trek in eastern Nepal.

Kalinchowk to Pokhara Distance

Planning to visit Pokhara next? The road distance from Kalinchowk to Pokhara is about 300 km.

Key Takeaways

• Kalinchowk is perfect for a quick Himalayan trip with spiritual value.

• It’s a great spot to enjoy snowfall from December to February.

• Packages are affordable and beginner-friendly.

• The temple is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.

FAQs About Kalinchowk Trek

How far is Kalinchowk from Kathmandu?
Around 150 km, with a 5–6 hour drive.

When is the best time for snow?
Between December and February.

How much does the trek cost?
NPR 5,000 to NPR 7,000 per person for budget packages.

How cold is Kalinchowk in winter?
It can get as cold as -5°C.

How long is the trek from Charikot?
Roughly 12 km, or 4–5 hours on foot.