Best of Dhankuta: a Must Visit Hill Town of Eastern Nepal

One of the oldest administrative centers, Dhankuta is a charming hill town that blends natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a vibrant community spirit. As the headquarters of Dhankuta District in Koshi Province, this destination offers a unique mix of adventure, spirituality, and cultural immersion. Whether you're a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or a curious traveler seeking authentic experiences, Dhankuta has something for everyone. This article explores 15 must-do activities, the town’s history, shopping spots, top hotels, highlights, and its cultural significance, including festivals and events.

What Are the Top 15 Things to Do in Dhankuta?

Dhankuta offers a variety of activities that showcase its natural splendor and cultural depth. Here are 15 must-do experiences:

1. Visit Jalpa Devi Temple: Explore the ancient Jalpa Devi Temple, also known as Chintang Devi Temple, a revered Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Durga. It’s especially vibrant during the Dashain festival.
2. Travel to and Trek around Bhedetar: Embark on a scenic trek to Bhedetar, a hill station at 1,420 meters, offering panoramic views of the Terai plains and snow-capped peaks like Kanchenjunga and Makalu.
3. Marvel at Namaste Waterfall: Visit this stunning 80-meter waterfall, just 8 km from Bhedetar, for a serene picnic or photography session amidst lush greenery.
4. Explore Rajarani Valley: Discover the historic Rajarani Valley, home to the beautiful Rajarani Taal (lake) with lotus-filled ponds, once part of the Limbu Kingdom.
5. Hike to Dhoje Hill: Climb Dhoje Hill (Danda), the second-highest hill in Nepal, for breathtaking views of Everest, Makalu, and other Himalayan peaks.
6. Experience Hile’s Cool Climate: Visit Hile, a gateway to Dhankuta, known for its chilly weather and traditional Limbu drink, Tongba.
7. Tour the Provincial Museum: Dive into Eastern Nepal’s cultural history at the Dhankuta Provincial Museum, showcasing artifacts from Limbu, Sherpa, and Aathpahariya communities.
8. Relax at Chotlung Park: Take a day trip to Chotlung Park in Terhathum District, featuring stone and wood Limbu houses that evoke Nepal’s past.
9. Wander through Dhankuta Bazaar: Stroll through the lively Dhankuta Bazaar, a hub for local handicrafts, spices, and fresh produce.
10. Bridge of Mulghat and Rafting from Mulghat, Dhankuta: A British-made Dharan-Dhankuta road and the metal bridge over Tamor River are iconic and great for photos. Then go rafting from Mulghat. The beautiful Mulghat bridge is famous for local farm shops and roadside vendors selling mangoes and sugarcane. The bridge was built in 2036 BS when the Koshi Highway was constructed. This highway and iconic metal bridge linked India, Terai, and the rest of Nepal to Dhankuta and other hilly districts. Mulghat is popular for river views from the bridge.

What Is the History of Dhankuta?

Dhankuta has a rich historical legacy as a significant administrative and cultural center in Eastern Nepal. Before Nepal’s unification, it was part of the Limbuwan and Kirata Kingdom. Until around 1963, Dhankuta Bazaar served as the administrative headquarters for the entire northeastern region, governed by the Bada Hakim, a feudal district governor with considerable authority. The town was a self-governing hub due to its isolation from the Terai lowlands and Kathmandu, relying on trade and remittances from Gorkha soldiers. In 1962, Nepal was divided into 75 districts, and Dhankuta became the headquarters of the Eastern Development Region. The town also pioneered education, hosting one of Nepal’s first high schools outside Kathmandu in the 1930s, fostering a progressive community. Today, it remains a key trading hub along the Koshi Highway, blending its historical roots with modern development.

Where Are the Best Places for a Shopping Tour in and Around Dhankuta?

Dhankuta is a treasure trove for shoppers seeking authentic Nepali goods and cultural souvenirs. Here are the top shopping spots:

• Hattikharka Bazar: This vibrant market in Dhankuta is known for its diverse goods, including fresh produce, handmade pottery, textiles, and woodwork. It’s a great place to experience local culture and haggle with friendly vendors.
• Dhankuta Bazaar: The town’s main market is bustling with stalls selling traditional handicrafts, woolen clothes, regional spices, and locally grown tea and coffee. It’s perfect for picking up unique souvenirs.
• Hile Thursday Market (Haat): Held weekly, this market in Hile offers a sensory feast with local foods, crafts, and agricultural products like oranges and cardamom. It’s a lively spot to engage with locals.
• Local Homestay Shops: Community homestays like Sipting and Khambela often sell handmade items such as Dhaka-style textiles, cushion covers, and clothing made from silk, banana, and nettle fibers.

For a broader shopping experience, nearby Dharan’s markets, just 16 km away, offer additional variety, including jute products and traditional Nepali attire.

What Are the Best Hotels to Stay in Dhankuta?

Dhankuta offers a range of accommodations, from cozy homestays to comfortable hotels, catering to different preferences:

• Sipting Community Homestay: Experience authentic Nepali hospitality with a stay at this homestay, offering a glimpse into local life, home-cooked meals, and a warm, family-like atmosphere.
• Khambela-Athpahariya Community Homestay: Immerse yourself in Aathpahariya culture with this unique homestay, providing comfortable lodging and cultural experiences like traditional dance.
• Nunthala Farmstay: Ideal for nature lovers, this farmstay offers a rustic yet cozy experience with organic meals and scenic surroundings.
• Hotel Hill View: A popular choice in Dhankuta Bazaar, this hotel offers modern amenities, stunning hill views, and easy access to local attractions. Contact Holiday Pasal for bookings.
• Hotel Kanjirowa: For more upscale options, consider hotels in nearby Hile, such as Hotel Kanjirowa, which provide additional comfort and are a short drive from Dhankuta.
• Hotel Murchunga, Dhankuta: A nice and comfy hotel in Dhankuta Bazaar where you can enjoy the stay and local food of Dhankuta.

Homestays are recommended for cultural immersion, while hotels in Dhankuta Bazaar, Hile, or Sidhuwa Bazar suit those seeking modern conveniences.

What Are the Highlights of Dhankuta?

Dhankuta’s charm lies in its blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and community spirit. Key highlights include:

• Scenic Landscapes: Lush hills, pine forests, and views of Himalayan peaks like Everest and Kanchenjunga make Dhankuta a haven for nature lovers.
• Cultural Diversity: Home to ethnic groups like Aathpahariya, Limbu, Rai, Brahman, Chhetri, and Newar, Dhankuta showcases a vibrant mix of traditions, music, and dance.
• Responsible Tourism: Initiatives like the HI-GRID project by ICIMOD promote sustainable tourism, focusing on water conservation and community-based experiences.
• Agricultural Heritage: Known as the “Avocado Capital, Orange Capital, Cabbage Capital,” Dhankuta and its surrounding towns like Hile and Sidhuwa are famous for oranges, tea, cardamom, and coconut biscuits.
• Famous Dhankute Biscuits: A famous coconut-containing cookie traditionally cooked using a chulo with wood, though many producers now use electricity.
• Spiritual Sites: Temples like Jalpa Devi, Raja Rani, Pathivara Bhedetar, Chintang Devi, Bishranti Mandir Mulghat, and Nishan Bhagwati attract pilgrims and offer serene settings for reflection.

What Is the Cultural Importance and Significance of Dhankuta, Including Festivals and Events?

Dhankuta’s cultural tapestry is woven from its diverse ethnic communities and historical significance. The Aathpahariya, Limbu, Rai, and other groups contribute to a vibrant cultural scene, with traditional music, dance, and cuisine like dhido and momo. The town’s progressive history, marked by early education initiatives, continues to foster cultural pride.

Key Festivals and Events:

• Mangshire (Wadagmet) Festival: Celebrated by the Aathpahariya in November-December, this month-long festival honors ancestors with music, Maruni Nach dance, and offerings like Tite (rice and chicken). It includes an 80-km pilgrimage from Barahkshetra to Dhankuta.
• Baishake (Bisu) and Bhadaure (Chamanwagi): These Aathpahariya festivals in April-May and August-September mark the cultivation and harvest seasons, respectively, with community gatherings and rituals.
• Dashain and Tihar: Major Hindu festivals celebrated with enthusiasm, featuring worship at temples like Jalpa Devi, family gatherings, and vibrant displays of lights and colors.
• Holi and Maghe Sankranti: Holi brings colorful celebrations, while Maghe Sankranti marks the winter solstice with sesame and molasses dishes.
• Local Melas and Tournaments: Dhankuta hosts occasional melas (fairs) and football tournaments, especially in Hile and Dhankuta Bazaar, fostering community spirit. These events often feature local food stalls and cultural performances, though specific tournaments like a “Dhankuta Football Tournament” are not widely documented.

Conclusion

Dhankuta, the “Queen of Hills,” is a destination that captivates with its natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality. From trekking to Bhedetar and visiting sacred temples to shopping in vibrant markets and savoring local cuisine, the town offers a diverse range of experiences. Its historical significance as a regional hub and its commitment to sustainable tourism make it a unique gem in Eastern Nepal. Whether you’re drawn by the Mangshire Festival’s cultural depth or the serene views from Dhoje Hill, Dhankuta promises an unforgettable journey. Plan your visit during spring or autumn for the best weather, and immerse yourself in this enchanting hill town’s charm.