Things To Do
in Tokha
Tokha is a hillside town in the Kathmandu District, perched on the outskirts of Nepal's capital valley. It blends rural charm with growing suburban development, featuring tea houses, temples, and terraced fields framed by forested hills. The area serves as a gateway for day trips to Kathmandu’s heritage sites while retaining a tranquil village atmosphere.
Visitors can experience a mix of traditional Newari culture, local markets, and scenic viewpoints above the bustle of Kathmandu Valley.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient temple of Narayanthan, where you can witness the morning rituals and the spiritual ambiance that surrounds it. The locals often gather here for morning prayers, providing a glimpse into the daily life of the community. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Nepali breakfast at a nearby eatery, savoring the flavors of 'aloo paratha' and fresh chai.
In the afternoon, stroll through the vibrant market of Tokha, where you can interact with local vendors selling spices, textiles, and handcrafted goods. Take a break at a local café to enjoy some delicious 'samosa' and engage in conversations with friendly locals about their traditions. Make your way to the nearby Bhaktapur Durbar Square for a deeper understanding of Newar culture and architecture.
As the sun sets, head back to Tokha and visit the local community center, where cultural performances often take place. Enjoy an evening of traditional music and dance while mingling with locals, who are eager to share their stories and heritage. Wrap up your day with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, trying out 'dal bhat', a staple dish of Nepal.
Begin your day with an invigorating nature walk through the lush green hills surrounding Tokha, where the crisp air and serene environment will rejuvenate your spirit. You might catch glimpses of local wildlife and vibrant flora while enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature. Stop at a viewpoint to admire the panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and the majestic Himalayas in the distance.
After your morning hike, visit the nearby Shivapuri National Park, where you can explore its diverse ecosystem and enjoy birdwatching. Take a leisurely hike along the well-marked trails, discovering the various species of plants and birds that call this park home. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature, soaking in the tranquility of your surroundings.
As the day winds down, return to Tokha and find a cozy spot to watch the sunset over the hills. Reflect on the beauty of the day with a warm cup of 'masala chai' while enjoying the cool evening breeze. Dine at a local eatery, indulging in a hearty 'momo' dish, which is a beloved snack among the locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.25-0.75 |
| 🍛Local dish at mid-range restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride within town | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet hillside setting with easy access to Kathmandu Valley
- Rich village culture and scenic viewpoints
- Delicious home-style Nepali cuisine and markets nearby
- Good base for day trips to temples and nature reserves
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure compared to central Kathmandu
- Some areas may have steep terrain and uneven sidewalks
- Weather can affect hiking and outdoor plans during the monsoon
- Faster-paced urban options require travel to Kathmandu for more services
- "Namaste" - Hello / Good day
- "Dhanyabad" - Thank you
- "Kripaya malsa" - Please
- "Ma Nepal bata hoon" - I am from Nepal
- "Sanchai cha?" - Are you well?
- "Bikash ke cha?" - Where is the market?
Places to Visit in Tokha
Visit one of these nice places.
A sweeping overlook of the Kathmandu Valley with clear light at sunrise and sunset, perfect for landscape photography.
Colorful daily life with shopfronts, tea stalls, and market vendors, offering candid and street photography opportunities.
Golden terraces and palm trees set against the hills, ideal for agricultural and pastoral compositions.
An intimate temple cluster with pilgrims and local worship, great for portrait and cultural photography.
Food in Tokha
Tokha Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steam rice served with lentil soup and a variety of vegetable curries; a staple meal found in most eateries.
Must-Try!
Fermented leafy greens often served with tomato onion relish and rice; a traditional winter dish.
Steamed dumplings filled with vegetables or meat, served with dipping sauces; widely available in local stalls and eateries.
Sweet, ring-shaped fried bread often enjoyed during festivals and markets, best sampled fresh from a street stall.
Potato and bamboo shoot curry with tender vegetables; a regional specialty you may encounter in hillside towns.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market area where fresh vegetables, spices, and street snacks are sold daily; great for sampling quick bites and observing daily life.
A traditional market cluster reachable by short ride; offers fresh produce, handmade snacks, and Nepalese street foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a folded hands gesture and a warm ‘Namaste’; it is respectful to address elders with appropriate titles.
Dress modestly, remove shoes where required, and avoid pointing feet at sacred objects. Seek permission before taking photos inside temples.
Be patient in markets and public spaces; appreciate polite, friendly exchanges and avoid loud behavior in religious or residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Tokha
Ensure a smooth experience
In small eateries, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; round up the bill or leave a small tip for good service. In more formal restaurants, 5-10% is acceptable if service charge is not included.
Cash in Nepalese rupees is widely accepted. Some mid-range cafes may accept cards or digital wallets; carry small notes for convenience in markets and small eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with clear skies; expect higher humidity and occasional thunderstorms in the late afternoon. Bring light clothing and sun protection; stay hydrated.
July to September brings heavy rainfall and slippery trails. Pack waterproof gear, sturdy footwear, and plan indoor or market-based activities when rain is heavy.
September to November offers comfortable temperatures, crisp air, and excellent visibility for views and photography. A peak time for hikes and village visits.
Cold mornings with cool days; fog and mist can reduce visibility at times. Layered clothing is essential; winter evenings can be chilly.
Tokha at Night
Hiking in Tokha
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible from the Kathmandu area with moderate day hikes offering cloud forests, birds, and distant valley views.
Lush forest trails near the valley rim, suitable for easier hikes and nature observation.
Rural routes along terraced fields that connect villages and viewpoints, ideal for photography and tranquil walks.
Airports
How to reach Tokha by plane.
Main international gateway to Nepal. Regular domestic flights connect Kathmandu with regional towns; taxis and buses provide access to Tokha from the airport.
Nearby alternative airport (about a few hours by road from Kathmandu). Useful for travelers continuing to Pokhara or central Nepal; domestic flights connect to Kathmandu.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Newar, Tamang, and other hill communities, with local languages and traditional practices visible in markets and temples.
Resident families and commuters who travel to Kathmandu for work or study, contributing to a diverse, yet close-knit community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with casual games hosted in local grounds and schoolyards.
Widely played in parks and schools during the dry season; informal matches are common.
Common in community centers and cafes with indoor or outdoor courts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tokha.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Nepali dishes can be prepared vegetarian. Look for dal bhat tarkari, tarkari curries, and momo with vegetable fillings; ask for no meat or fish and request extra vegetables when needed.