Bagmati Province, Nepal
Things to do in Dhulikhel
A historic Newar hill town about 30km east of Kathmandu in Kavrepalanchok, famous for its wide Himalayan sunrise panorama and as the trailhead to the Namobuddha monastery.
Dhulikhel is a historic Newar hill town about 30km east of Kathmandu in Kavrepalanchok, perched on the rim of the valley at roughly 1,550m. It is best known for a wide Himalayan sunrise panorama and for being the trailhead to the sacred monastery of Namobuddha. Compared with busier Nagarkot, it offers the same big mountain views plus a living old town of brick houses, courtyards and temples.
Most travellers come up for the dawn light from the Dhulikhel sunrise viewpoint by the Kali temple and Shanti Ban Buddha, then wander the lanes of the old Newari town and visit the historic Bhagwati Temple. The town's signature day out is the hike to Namobuddha via the climb of a thousand steps, often extended into the scenic Dhulikhel–Namobuddha–Panauti loop trek. The medieval town of Panauti makes a rewarding half-day add-on.
Start with our roundup of the top things to do in Dhulikhel, then plan the practicalities: where to stay, how to get there and the best time to visit. For the wider region, see our guides to the best sunrise spots in Nepal, Newar culture and heritage and the best day hikes near Kathmandu.
Where to stay in Dhulikhel
Sights & attractions in Dhulikhel
Trekking & treks in Dhulikhel
What to do in Dhulikhel
Getting around in Dhulikhel
Frequently asked questions
Is Dhulikhel worth visiting?+
Yes — it pairs one of the widest Himalayan sunrise panoramas near Kathmandu with a genuinely lived-in old Newar town, and it is the natural base for the famous walk to Namobuddha. It feels quieter and more local than busier Nagarkot.
How far is Dhulikhel from Kathmandu?+
About 30km east along the Araniko Highway, roughly one to one-and-a-half hours by car or bus depending on traffic out of the valley. It makes an easy day trip but rewards an overnight stay for sunrise.
What is Dhulikhel famous for?+
Its sunrise viewpoint over the Himalaya, its compact old Newari town of brick houses and temples, and as the trailhead for the pilgrim hike to Namobuddha monastery, one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the Kathmandu Valley region.