Things To Do
in Gorkhā
Gorkhā is a picturesque hill town located in central Nepal, known for its historical significance and stunning natural beauty. The town is famous for the ancient Gorkha Durbar, a palace built in the 16th century, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Gorkhā is also the ancestral home of the legendary Gurkha soldiers known for their bravery and loyalty.
Visitors to Gorkhā can explore the quaint streets lined with traditional Newari architecture, enjoy trekking opportunities, and immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the region.
- "Timi lai kasto chha?" - How are you?
- "Dhanyabad" - Thank you
- "Ma sanchai chhu" - I am fine
- "Kripaya" - Please
- "Tapaiko naam ke ho?" - What is your name?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the Gorkha Durbar, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the rich history of Nepal. Explore the beautiful architecture and learn about King Prithvi Narayan Shah's legacy.
Head to the Gorkha Museum to understand the local culture and history through various artifacts. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby cafe with traditional Nepali cuisine.
Stroll through the local market to experience daily life in Gorkhā. End the day with a sunset view over the hills from a nearby vantage point.
Start your day with an early morning breakfast before heading out on a trekking trail towards the hills. The views of the Himalayas will leave you awestruck.
Enjoy a packed lunch amid nature as you take in the surrounding landscapes. Continue trekking, stopping to take pictures and embrace the tranquility around you.
Return to Gorkhā and relax at your accommodation. Treat yourself to a warm meal and share stories from your day's adventure.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical significance.
- Stunning natural beauty and access to trekking routes.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- A hub for adventure activities like hiking, rafting, and paragliding.
- Affordable cost of living and travel.
- Limited access to modern amenities and infrastructure.
- Variable weather conditions, which can affect travel plans.
- Potential language barrier for non-Nepali speakers.
- Challenges in healthcare facilities and services.
- Isolated location which may limit connectivity to other regions.
Best Activities in Gorkhā
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails and hills around Gorkhā while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Embark on a trek to the nearby Manaslu Circuit or other scenic routes for an unforgettable adventure.
Experience the local culture and lifestyle by visiting nearby villages and interacting with the friendly locals.
Enjoy an exhilarating rafting experience on the Trishuli River, offering a mix of exciting rapids and stunning scenery.
Immerse yourself in nature by camping at scenic spots, such as along the banks of the Gandaki River or amidst lush forests.
Explore the countryside and nearby trails on a thrilling mountain biking excursion, taking in the picturesque landscapes.
Soar through the skies and take in panoramic views of the Himalayas on a mesmerizing paragliding flight.
Places to Visit in Gorkhā
Visit one of these nice places.
Located atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area
Ancient palace with stunning mountain views and historical significance
Situated at an elevation, providing breathtaking views of the Himalayas
Food in Gorkhā
Gorkhā Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, served with a tangy dipping sauce. Try them at the Gorkha Bazaar or local street food stalls.
Must-Try!
Spiced and grilled meat skewers, bursting with smoky flavors. You can savor authentic sekuwa at small eateries and local restaurants.
Fermented leafy green vegetable, often used in soups or curries, providing a unique tangy taste. Enjoy gundruk at traditional Nepali eateries.
A traditional rice donut, crispy on the outside and soft inside, usually found at local markets and street food vendors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a haven for street food enthusiasts, offering a wide array of local delights such as momos, sel roti, and other tempting snacks.
An excellent spot to sample authentic street food like sekuwa and various snacks, providing a true taste of local flavors and culinary traditions.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Gorkhā, it is customary to greet people with a 'Namaste' (placing palms together at chest level and bowing slightly). This gesture is a sign of respect and is widely used in formal and informal interactions.
When entering someone's home, it is polite to remove your shoes as a sign of respect for the cleanliness of the household. This applies not only to homes but also to certain temples and sacred places.
Respecting elders is an important cultural norm in Gorkhā. It is customary to address elders with courtesy and deference, and to seek their advice and blessings in various aspects of life.
Safety
Tipping in Gorkhā
Ensure a smooth experience
In Gorkhā, Nepal, tipping is not a widely practiced custom. It is not expected in most restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments. However, if someone feels particularly satisfied with the service, they may leave a small amount of money as a gesture of appreciation.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Gorkhā, Nepal. Many establishments, especially in rural areas, do not accept credit or debit cards. When making purchases or paying for services, it is important to have enough cash on hand. Additionally, it's common to negotiate prices, especially in local markets, before making a purchase.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Gorkhā, with blooming rhododendrons, clear skies, and moderate temperatures.
Another great time to visit, with clear skies, colorful landscapes, and comfortable weather. This is also the peak trekking season.
The monsoon season brings heavy rainfalls and less favorable conditions for outdoor activities.
Cold temperatures, occasional snowfall, and limited accessibility to higher altitude areas. Still possible to visit, but trekking and higher-elevation activities may be challenging.
Gorkhā at Night
Hiking in Gorkhā
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
One of the most famous trekking routes in Nepal, the Manaslu Circuit offers breathtaking views of the Manaslu mountain, lush forests, and cultural immersion in remote villages.
Though a bit farther from Gorkhā, the Langtang region is known for its spectacular landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. It features several trekking routes ideal for all levels.
A short hike that takes you from Gorkha Bazaar to the historic Gorkha Durbar, offering great views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
A popular short trek that starts from Pokhara, this route offers stunning views of the Annapurna range and a chance to see traditional villages.
An off-the-beaten-path trek providing stunning views of the Buddha Himal range, it offers solitude and unique natural scenery.
Aiports
How to reach Gorkhā by plane.
Located in Kathmandu, approximately 137 kilometers from Gorkhā, this is the main international airport in Nepal.
Located in Bhadrapur, around 301 kilometers southeast of Gorkhā, this airport serves international flights primarily to India.
Situated in Pokhara, about 208 kilometers from Gorkhā, this airport handles both domestic and limited international flights.
Located in Lumbini, approximately 252 kilometers southwest of Gorkhā, this airport aims to serve international travelers to the Lumbini area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Gurung people are one of the prominent ethnic groups in Gorkhā, known for their rich cultural heritage and contributions to the Gorkhā district.
The Magar community is another significant ethnic group in Gorkhā, recognized for their distinct traditions and languages.
Brahmins in Gorkhā are part of the high caste Hindu community, playing important roles in local governance and spiritual leadership.
The Chhetri community is also a major demographic in Gorkhā, with a strong presence in the military and administrative sectors.
Newars, although originally from the Kathmandu Valley, have settled in Gorkhā, contributing to its cultural and economic life.
The Tamang people, known for their Tibetan Buddhist traditions, are also part of the diverse ethnic tapestry of Gorkhā.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular team sport played in many schools and communities in Gorkhā.
An increasingly popular sport, especially among the youth, with local tournaments held regularly.
Commonly played in rural areas and schools, with many informal competitions taking place.
Gaining popularity in urban areas, with several courts available for local players.
A traditional sport that is culturally significant and often featured in local festivals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gorkhā.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat dishes are prevalent, many eateries in Gorkhā offer delicious vegetarian alternatives like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice) and a variety of vegetable curries.
Though fewer in number, some restaurants do offer vegan options such as saag (leafy greens) and bhatmas (soybeans), ensuring vegan visitors can savor the local cuisine.
For those with gluten sensitivities, traditional Nepali dishes like dhido (made from millet or buckwheat) and aloo tama (potato and bamboo shoot curry) are excellent gluten-free choices.