Embark on an immersive journey from Dhulikhel to Namobuddha, exploring Nepal’s captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This guided day hike promises an unforgettable experience, blending scenic vistas, historic monasteries, and authentic local cuisine. With an impressive overall rating, this adventure offers the perfect opportunity to dive deeper into the wonders of Nepal. What awaits as you traverse through picturesque villages and discover the enchanting Namobuddha Monastery?
Key Points

- This day hike covers the scenic route from Dhulikhel to the historic Namobuddha Monastery, with a guided tour and a Nepali thali or momo lunch included.
- The 3-hour hike takes you through a charming Newari village, the Peace Garden, and the Kali Temple, offering panoramic views along the way.
- Optional activities like ziplining and a visit to Bhaktapur Durbar Square are available to enhance your cultural and scenic experience.
- The tour is guided by English and Hindi-speaking instructors, providing insight into the local farming methods and cultural practices.
- The tour has an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 44 reviews, with high praise for the guide, transportation, and value for money.
Tour Overview

The tour offers a day hike from Dhulikhel to the sacred site of Namobuddha, providing a scenic and cultural experience for travelers.
A scenic and cultural day hike from Dhulikhel to the sacred site of Namobuddha.
Priced from $87.48 per person, the 5-hour to 2-day activity is led by English and Hindi-speaking guides. Guests can choose optional hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as ziplining and a tour of Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
The tour features a scenic drive, exploration of Dhulikhel, a 3-hour hike to Namobuddha, and a guided tour of the monastery.
There’s also the option to stay overnight at the monastery guesthouse.
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Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a scenic drive to Dhulikhel, which takes approximately 75 minutes from the pickup locations of Kathmandu and Thamel.
Upon arrival, guests can explore the charming Newari village and optionally experience the thrilling ziplining activity for 30 minutes.
The hike to Namobuddha takes around 3 hours, traversing through the serene Peace Garden and Kali Temple.
At Namobuddha, visitors will receive a guided tour of the historic monastery and learn about the legend of Prince Mahasatwo.
Guests can also choose to stay overnight at the monastery guest house or continue to the UNESCO site of Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
Scenic and Cultural Experience

As visitors embark on the Dhulikhel to Namobuddha day hike, they’ll be treated to a 360-degree view from the Kali Mandir and Namobuddha Monastery, offering a panoramic perspective of the stunning Himalayan landscape.
Along the way, they’ll explore a traditional Newari village, gaining insight into the local farming methods and cultural practices.
The highlight of the tour is the legendary story of Prince Mahasatwo and the tigress at the Namobuddha Monastery, providing a captivating cultural experience that deepens their understanding of the region’s rich history and spirituality.
Inclusions and Exclusions

This day hike from Dhulikhel to Namobuddha includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an experienced guide, a Nepali thali set or momo lunch, air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, and the option to try ziplining or tour Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
The tour also covers the gratuity for the guide and driver, as well as the entrance fee for Bhaktapur if selected. However, personal expenses and any overnight stay meals (unless selected) aren’t included in the tour price.
This tour covers gratuity for guide and driver, and Bhaktapur entrance fee, but not personal expenses or overnight meals unless specified.
This comprehensive package ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for the participants.
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Hotel pickup and drop-off
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Nepali thali set or momo lunch
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Ziplining or Bhaktapur Durbar Square tour (optional)
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Gratuity for guide and driver, Bhaktapur entrance fee (if selected)
Customer Reviews and Ratings

Boasting an impressive overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 44 reviews, this Dhulikhel to Namobuddha day hike has consistently received high praise from past participants. Reviewers have highlighted the exceptional quality of the guides, commending their extensive knowledge and accommodating nature. The transportation provided has also been highly rated, with an average score of 4.9 out of 5. While the value for money has been deemed excellent, with a 4.5 out of 5 rating, the overall experience has been described as unforgettable and informative.
| Metric | Rating |
|————–|——–|
| Overall | 4.7/5 |
| Guide | 5/5 |
| Transportation | 4.9/5 |
| Value for Money | 4.5/5 |
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Getting to Dhulikhel and Namobuddha

The tour begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu or Thamel to Dhulikhel, a picturesque Newari town situated about 75 minutes away.
Upon arrival, the group has an opportunity to:
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Explore the charming streets and traditional architecture of Dhulikhel.
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Participate in an optional ziplining activity for a thrilling experience.
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Begin the hike to Namobuddha, a sacred Buddhist site, which takes approximately 3 hours through the scenic Peace Garden and Kali Temple.
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Visit the Namobuddha Monastery, where a guided tour provides insight into the site’s rich history and cultural significance.
What to Expect on the Day Hike

After arriving at Namobuddha, the group embarks on a guided tour of the monastery, gaining insights into its rich history and cultural significance. The hike itself offers a chance to immerse in the scenic beauty of the region, passing through lush forests and peaceful villages. Along the way, the guide shares stories about the legend of Prince Mahasatwo and the tigress, adding depth to the experience. Hikers can look forward to the following highlights:
| Activity | Duration | Highlights |
| — | — | — |
| Explore Dhulikhel | 30 mins | Scenic viewpoints, optional ziplining |
| Hike to Namobuddha | 3 hours | Peace Garden, Kali Temple, panoramic vistas |
| Tour Namobuddha Monastery | 1 hour | Guided exploration of the historic site |
| Optional Bhaktapur Visit | 1.5 hours | Exploration of the UNESCO-listed city |
The day hike offers an immersive cultural and natural experience, perfect for those seeking to venture beyond Kathmandu’s bustling streets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Kind of Terrain Will We Cover During the Hike?
The hike covers a variety of terrain, including gentle slopes, rocky paths, and some steep ascents. Hikers can expect to traverse through lush forests, traditional villages, and scenic viewpoints along the way to the Namobuddha Monastery.
Is There an Option to Rent Hiking Gear?
The tour doesn’t explicitly mention an option to rent hiking gear. However, the guide is experienced and can likely provide recommendations on the appropriate gear for the terrain. Participants should come prepared with comfortable hiking shoes and layers for the outdoor portions of the day.
Can We Take Breaks During the Hike if Needed?
Yes, participants can take breaks during the hike as needed. The tour provides an experienced guide who’ll accommodate the group’s pace and ensure everyone feels comfortable throughout the journey.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Level Restrictions for the Tour?
There are no age or fitness level restrictions for this tour. The hike can be adjusted based on participants’ abilities, and breaks can be taken as needed. The guide will accommodate the group’s pace to ensure a comfortable experience.
Can We Purchase Additional Snacks or Drinks During the Hike?
Yes, participants can purchase additional snacks and drinks along the hike. The tour includes bottled water, but hikers are free to purchase any extra refreshments they’d like during the breaks or at the Namobuddha Monastery.
The Sum Up

This captivating day hike from Dhulikhel to Namobuddha offers an unforgettable blend of stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Enjoy Nepal’s natural beauty, explore picturesque villages, and visit the historic Namobuddha Monastery. Savor a delicious Nepali meal, and consider adding optional activities like ziplining or exploring Bhaktapur Durbar Square. With an impressive overall rating, this experience promises to create lasting memories.
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