Dhulikhel

धुलिखेल

An ancient Newari trading town along the old China-India trade route, with traditional bazaars, ancient temples, and a well-preserved old quarter. It offers authentic valley life away from Kathmandu's tourism while showcasing traditional architecture and local commerce.

Things to do

• Namobuddha Temple Trek — Hike to this hilltop Buddhist shrine about 3 hours from Dhulikhel with views over the valley and a sacred site where Buddha is said to have offered his flesh to a starving tigress.
• Explore Dhulikhel Bazaar — Wander the narrow lanes of the old market district where traditional shops sell spices, textiles, and handicrafts alongside residents going about daily commerce.
• Indreshwar Mahadev Temple — Visit this ancient stone temple in the heart of town, a testament to Newari architecture and a functioning place of worship for local residents.
• Aakash Bhairab Temple — Pay respects at this historic temple dedicated to Bhairab, an important deity in Newari culture, located within the old bazaar area.
• Visit Namobuddha Monastery — Explore this Buddhist monastic center near Namobuddha village that blends Tibetan and Newari traditions with meditation practices and monastery tours.
• Pottery Workshop Tour — Watch local potters at work in small studios scattered around town, where traditional clay vessels are hand-crafted using centuries-old techniques.

Food to try

• Newari Bara — A savory lentil cake fried in oil and typically served with spicy potato curry, this is a staple breakfast or snack food throughout the bazaar.
• Yomari — A sweet steamed dumpling made of rice flour filled with molasses and sesame, traditionally prepared during the winter festival season in Newari communities.
• Chatamari — A thin crepe-like Newari dish topped with eggs, meat, and vegetables, cooked on a large flat pan and eaten as a street food or light meal.
• Fresh Momos from Local Vendors — Handmade dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, steamed or fried, sold by vendors throughout the bazaar and eaten with spicy achaar.
• Dal Bhat with Local Greens — The traditional Nepali rice and lentil plate prepared with seasonal leafy vegetables and pickled vegetables sourced from surrounding valley farms.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Temple Protocols — Remove shoes before entering temples and shrines, circumambulate clockwise, and avoid pointing feet toward religious icons or statues.
• Greet with Namaste — Use the traditional Nepali greeting with palms pressed together at the chest, especially when meeting shopkeepers and older residents in the bazaar.
• Shop During Bazaar Hours — Most shops close by 6 PM and many close for lunch, so plan morning visits to see full vendor activity and the energy of traditional market life.
• Avoid Left Hand for Eating — When eating shared foods or accepting items, use your right hand, as the left hand is traditionally considered impure in Nepali and Hindu culture.

Nearby

• Godavari — 2 km
• Panauti (Eastern Hills) — 5 km
• Namobuddha (Central Highlands) — 6 km
• Thimi — 7 km