Kathmandu to Dhulikhel
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Ways to make the journey
1–1.5 h
The route follows the Araniko Highway east through Thimi and past Bhaktapur, then climbs gently through Banepa to Dhulikhel at about 1,550 m. Traffic in Kathmandu is the main variable; once past Bhaktapur the road is quieter. We usually leave after breakfast, spend two or three hours in Bhaktapur with a guide, and continue to Dhulikhel in time for lunch and the afternoon view.
Half day
A longer route turns north from Bhaktapur to the hilltop temple of Changu Narayan, the oldest temple in the Kathmandu Valley and one of its seven monument zones, before continuing to Dhulikhel. It adds about two hours including the visit. The road to Changu Narayan is narrow and steep in places, so we use a compact car with an experienced driver.
Full day
For walkers, we drive to Nagarkot at about 2,175 m for the sunrise view, then walk down through villages and pine forest towards Dhulikhel, with our car meeting you for the final stretch. Total walking is about 4–6 hours, mostly downhill on farm tracks and village paths. It works best from October to April, when trails are dry and the Himalaya is clear.
Worth a stop
- Bhaktapur Durbar Square
- Changu Narayan Temple
- Thimi pottery workshops
- Banepa
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
How far is Dhulikhel from Kathmandu?
About 30 km east of central Kathmandu on the Araniko Highway, usually 1–1.5 hours by private car, depending on traffic through Thimi and Bhaktapur. From the airport it is a similar time. Dwarika's Resort Dhulikhel sits just above the town. Most of our guests stop in Bhaktapur on the way, turning the transfer into a morning of sightseeing.
Can I visit Bhaktapur on the way to Dhulikhel?
Yes, and we recommend it. Bhaktapur lies directly on the route, about 13 km from Kathmandu, so a two- to three-hour visit to its Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square and Pottery Square adds little driving time. You arrive at Dhulikhel for a late lunch with the afternoon free. Bhaktapur charges a municipal entry fee; check current status before you travel.
Is Dhulikhel better than Nagarkot for mountain views?
Both have wide Himalayan views on clear days. Nagarkot, at about 2,175 m, is higher and famous for sunrise, but its hotels are simpler. Dhulikhel, at about 1,550 m, has Dwarika's Resort, a far more comfortable base, and its own long view from Langtang towards Gaurishankar. We often stay at Dhulikhel and drive to Nagarkot for a single sunrise.
Is there public transport from Kathmandu to Dhulikhel?
Local buses run frequently from Kathmandu to Banepa and Dhulikhel, but they are crowded and slow, with little room for luggage. For our guests we always use a private car with driver, which allows stops in Bhaktapur or Changu Narayan and door-to-door transfer to the resort. Taxis are possible but vary in comfort and need agreeing a fare in advance.