Gorkha - Discovering Nepal

Travelling to Gorkha

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Gorkha, a pretty good destination in Nepal (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Gorkha and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Gorkha, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Nepal, here's everything to know about Gorkha for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Gorkha

Gorkha is a small municipality in north-central Nepal, located approximately 140 kilometers west of the capital city, Kathmandu. It is known as the birthplace of the legendary Nepalese king, Prithvi Narayan Shah, who is credited with founding modern-day Nepal. Gorkha is situated at an altitude of 1,135 meters above sea level and is surrounded by scenic hills and mountains. The area is renowned for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Popular tourist attractions in Gorkha include the Gorkha Durbar (the ancient palace of the Nepalese kings), the Gorakhnath temple, and the Manakamana temple. The region is also popular among trekking and hiking enthusiasts, as it offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

What to visit in Gorkha

Gorkha is a historic city located in north-central Nepal and it offers several tourist attractions. Here are some of the tourist attractions of Gorkha along with some information: 1. Gorkha Durbar (Palace) - It is a historic palace of the Shah dynasty, located at the top of a hill in the center of the city. It is the birthplace of King Prithvi Narayan Shah, the founder of modern Nepal. The palace is made in traditional Nepalese style and offers a panoramic view of the city.
2. Manakamana Temple - It is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Manakamana. The temple is located on a hilltop and can be reached through a cable car ride. The temple is believed to fulfill wishes of devotees who visit it.
3. Gorakhnath Cave - It is a holy cave located about 10 km from the city. It is named after the famous saint Gorakhnath and is believed to have been his meditation site. The cave is surrounded by natural beauty and offers a serene atmosphere.
4. Kalika Mandir - It is another famous Hindu temple located in the city and is dedicated to goddess Kali. The temple is built in traditional Nepalese style and offers a breathtaking view of the valley.
5. Tallo Durbar - It is a palace located in the southern part of the city and was built in the 19th century. The palace features a blend of Nepali and European architectural styles and is now a museum.
6. Bungkot Village - It is a small village located about 15 km from the city and offers a glimpse of the traditional lifestyle of the people living in the hills. The village is known for its beautiful ancient temples and traditional houses.
7. Kali Gandaki Gorge - It is the deepest gorge in the world and is located about 50 km from Gorkha city. The gorge is formed by the Kali Gandaki River and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
These are some of the tourist attractions of Gorkha that you can visit to enjoy your trip to Nepal.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Nepal, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Gorkha.

When to go on holiday to Gorkha

The best time to visit Gorkha in Nepal is during the autumn months between October to November. During this time, the weather is clear and dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploration. However, it is also worth noting that springtime between March to May can be another good option as the weather is mild and the rhododendron blooms are in full bloom. The monsoon season between June to September should be avoided as Gorkha experiences heavy rainfall and landslides during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Gorkha

To get to Gorkha in Nepal, you can either take a bus or hire a private vehicle from Kathmandu, which is about 140km away. The journey takes around 5-6 hours by road and passes through scenic hill landscapes.
If you prefer to take a bus, you can take the local bus from Kathmandu to Gorkha via Prithvi Highway. The bus departs from Kalanki Bus Station in Kathmandu and goes through Mugling, Dumre, and finally to Gorkha. It is a budget option and costs around Rs. 400-600 (USD 3-5) per person.
Alternatively, you can also hire a private vehicle such as a jeep or a car. This option allows you more flexibility and privacy during the journey. The cost of hiring a private vehicle depends on the season, type of vehicle, and negotiation with the driver. It can range from Rs. 8,000-10,000 (USD 70-85) for a round trip.
Both options offer a breathtaking view of the winding mountain roads that snake through the hills.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Gorkha, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Gorkha

Gorkha is a district in Nepal which is popular for its unique and flavorful traditional foods. Here are some of the typical foods of Gorkha along with a short description for each: 1. Masu Bhat: Masu Bhat is a popular dish in Gorkha made with rice and meat. It is usually prepared with goat meat and is quite flavorful and spicy.
2. Jaulo: Jaulo is a nutritious porridge made from a mixture of grains including rice, millet, barley, and corn. It is often served as a breakfast dish in Gorkha.
3. Gundruk and Dhindo: Gundruk, a fermented vegetable soup made with mustard greens, and Dhindo, a type of dough made from buckwheat, cornmeal, or millet flour, are two staple foods of Gorkha. It is usually served with hot and spicy meat curry.
4. Thukpa: Thukpa is a popular Tibetan-style noodle soup that is commonly found in Gorkha. It is a hearty soup made with vegetables and mixed with noodles, chicken, or beef.
5. Sel Roti: Sel Roti is a traditional Nepali fried sweet bread that is popular in Gorkha. It is made with rice flour and is usually served at festivals or special occasions.
6. Aloo Tama: Aloo Tama is a spicy potato curry made with bamboo shoots. It is a popular dish in Gorkha and is commonly served with rice or naan bread.
7. Syakpa: Syakpa is a famous Nepali soup that is commonly found in Gorkha. It is made with spinach, potato, and other vegetables and is usually served with rice.
These are just a few examples of the wide variety of flavorful and unique foods that you can find in Gorkha.
You can find general info about typical foods in Nepal here.

Is Gorkha an expensive destination for tourists?

Gorkha is not generally considered an expensive destination for tourists. The cost of travel, accommodations, and dining in Gorkha is often lower than in larger cities in Nepal such as Kathmandu and Pokhara. However, prices can vary depending on the level of accommodation and the activities you choose to do during your stay. It's always a good idea to research costs and budget accordingly before traveling to any destination.

Where to find accomodation in Gorkha

Gorkha is a small town in Nepal that is located approximately 25 kilometers away from the east of the Pokhara Valley. The most popular places to find accommodation in Gorkha are in the town itself or in the surrounding villages. The town of Gorkha offers a variety of budget-friendly guesthouses and hotels, whereas some of the surrounding villages have more upscale hotels and resorts. Some of the popular areas to find accommodation in Gorkha are the old town of Gorkha, the nearby village of Sirandanda, and the nearby hill station of Gorkha-Heights.
You can check hotel prices at Gorkha here:
Booking.com

Is Gorkha a safe destination for tourists?

Overall, Gorkha is considered a safe place for tourists to visit. However, like all tourist destinations, it is important to take certain safety precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some tips to help keep you safe while visiting Gorkha: 1. Always stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
2. Try to avoid carrying large amounts of cash or expensive items with you while traveling.
3. Be cautious of pickpockets, especially in public transportation.
4. Always use reputable and licensed transportation services.
5. Respect local customs and dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites.
6. Check with your local embassy or consulate for any current travel advisories or safety concerns.
By following these safety tips and exercising common sense throughout your trip, you can have a memorable and safe visit to Gorkha.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Nepal here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Gorkha.

What type of travelers will enjoy Gorkha the most?

Gorkha, Nepal is a place that offers various activities for different types of travelers. Generally, it's more suitable for adventurous and cultural travelers than those seeking luxury accommodations and upscale experiences.
Adventurous travelers who love trekking and hiking will find Gorkha to be an ideal destination, with stunning mountain landscapes, scenic trails, and challenging peaks. Families with older children who enjoy outdoor activities and cultural experiences can also enjoy Gorkha.
Couples looking for a romantic getaway may find Gorkha to be a bit less conducive to their expectations. Fun-seeking young people may not find much in the way of nightlife or partying, but they can discover adventure and cultural immersion. Overall, Gorkha is more appropriate for travelers seeking outdoor adventures, ethnic culture, and breathtaking scenery.

How to get around Gorkha

In Gorkha, you can move around using local buses, taxis, or private cars. The roads in the region are mostly narrow and winding, so travel by vehicle can be slow and sometimes bumpy. It is also possible to hire a motorbike or bicycle for short journeys. However, keep in mind that conditions may be challenging due to the mountainous terrain. Walking is another option, particularly if you are exploring the center of Gorkha town itself.

What to see around Gorkha

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Gorkha, Nepal: 1. Manakamana Temple: Located in the nearby district of Gorkha, Manakamana Temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus. The temple is situated atop a hill and can be reached by a cable car ride from the base station.
2. Tansen: Tansen is a picturesque hill station located about 80 km from Gorkha. The town offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and the Himalayas in the distance. Tansen is also known for its traditional Newari architecture and handicrafts.
3. Bandipur: Bandipur is a beautifully preserved traditional Newari town located about 85 km from Gorkha. The town is situated on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Bandipur is also known for its quaint streets, temples, and traditional architecture.
4. Pokhara: Pokhara is a popular tourist destination located about 140 km from Gorkha. The town is situated on the shores of Phewa Lake and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. Pokhara is also known for its adventure activities like trekking, paragliding, and rafting.
5. Chitwan National Park: Chitwan National Park is located about 150 km from Gorkha and is known for its dense forests, wildlife, and traditional Tharu villages. Visitors can take jeep safaris, elephant rides, and canoe rides to explore the park and its wildlife.
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