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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
845 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
17.8 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
5.5-7.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Physical DIFF
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead

Dahachowk

Dahachowk
Measurement:

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Table of contents

Dahachowk is a culturally and historically significant place in the western outskirts of Kathmandu Valley. Quiet hilltop villages can be found in abundance in Nepal, and Dahachowk is no different, making it an ideal destination for a day hike from Kathmandu. Dahachowk offers stunning 360-degree views, and it boasts of a sacred pond (Indra Daha) and has a memorial for the war hero, Kalu Pandey.

Route Description for Dahachowk

Located just off the highway past Thankot, the Dahachowk hike is a secluded refuge from Kathmandu’s smog and traffic noise.

Start the hike from either the Naikap Football Ground or Totitol Chowk. If you decide to start from Naikap Football Ground, you must take a bus or taxi to the Football Ground and walk west for 3.7 km on an asphalt road. This is an ideal option if the road is free of traffic. However, your best option is to make your way to Totitol Chowk and take a short break for a light meal in a local restaurant. You might also consider stocking up on snacks and water due to the lack of shops and restaurants on the trails. Please note that this does not include the restaurants and resorts at the summit.

From Totitol Chowk, take a right in the northeast direction for 100 m until you reach the first fork in the trail. Make a left (south) and continue your way up to leave the smoke-polluting brick factories behind. The trail is mostly used by jeeps, which tend to kick up dust, so keep your facemasks and buffs ready. Soon you’ll pass through traditional village homes where you’ll have plenty of chances to interact with the locals. The trail hereafter is a steep incline to the top with an elevation gain of 570 m.

As you make the ascent, you’ll start to see the amazing view of the Chandragiri forest to the south. The dwindling series of hills seen on the west is a view to savor. As in the east, you see the view of densely populated Kathmandu. Take occasional breaks and keep hydrating your body and spend a little time capturing the stunning all-encompassing vistas. Walking further, you get to enjoy more views of the terraced fields and the green forest below, interspersed with some colorful trees. To see the colorful flowers, you must visit Dahachowk in the spring season.

Continuing the ascent, you’ll catch a glimpse of the staggering high mountain views, which include the Langtang, Ganesh, and Manaslu Himal. But this will only happen if you’re walking on a day with no clouds in the sky. After walking for almost 4.9 km in a northwest direction, you’ll arrive at a small park known as the Kalu Pandey Memorial Park. The park is dedicated to Kalu Pandey, a war hero during the unification of Nepal. Rest your tired feet at this clean, lush park, where you can admire the statue of Kalu Pandey. On a clear day, you can witness a panoramic view of the Nuwakot, Kirtipur, and Kathmandu Valley.

Have an appetizing meal at one of the summit restaurants while enjoying the magnificent panoramas. On your way back, continue for another 376 m south until you reach a junction in the trail. Divert your way from the main trail and take a left to visit the Indra Daha, a sacred pond next to a temple. “Daha” is a pond in Nepali, hence the name of the place. After a small detour, make your way down the same path you came. Take a cab or a public bus back to Kathmandu.

Insider Hints for Dahachowk

  • There are limited shops and restaurants along the trail, but you can expect a few restaurants and resorts at the summit.
  • It’s best to do this hike during the spring when colorful flowers dot the land.

Getting to the Dahachowk Trailhead

Get to Naikap Football Ground by taxi or bus. You can also take a taxi and start from Totitol Chowk for a shorter hike.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    March to May and September to November

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Poor

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Dahachowk Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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