Overview

The Khotang Halesi Cultural Trek is a spiritual and scenic journey that takes you to one of Nepal’s most revered pilgrimage sites — Halesi Mahadev Temple, also known as the Pashupatinath of Eastern Nepal. Located between the Dudh Koshi and Sun Koshi rivers in Khotang district, this sacred temple is believed to be over 6,000 years old and holds deep significance for Hindus and Buddhists alike.

This trek beautifully blends culture, religion, and natural beauty, offering trekkers an authentic experience of eastern Nepal. Along the way, you’ll encounter diverse communities such as the Newar, Rai, Brahmin, Chhetri, and Limbu, each adding unique traditions, festivals, and cuisine to your cultural experience.

Throughout the journey, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Mt. Everest (8,848m), Makalu (8,463m), and other snowcapped peaks. The trek also offers a chance to savor Newari delicacies and explore the heritage-rich Kathmandu Valley before and after your trip.

The adventure begins with a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, followed by a scenic flight to Lami Danda. From here, the trek continues toward Halesi Mahadev, where you’ll visit holy sites like Bhairavthan, Mahadevthan, and the sacred caves — Mahadev Cave, Basahasthan, and Pap Dwar. These caves are believed to hold mystical power and spiritual energy.

Nearby, the Maratika Monastery (also known as Halesi Monastery) is another major highlight, offering a peaceful setting surrounded by prayer flags and panoramic Himalayan views. On your return to Kathmandu, you can visit additional cultural landmarks to complete this meaningful journey.

The Khotang Halesi Cultural Trek is ideal for travelers seeking a balance of spiritual exploration, local culture, and natural beauty — a truly divine experience in the heart of eastern Nepal.

Highlights

  • Explore the major UNESCO world heritage sites of the Kathmandu valley
  • Explore the various caves in the Halesi Mahadev premises
  • Learn the myths and mysteries of the Halesi Mahadev Temple
  • Relish beautiful scenery and landscapes in Eastern Nepal

Itinerary

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Day 1:Arrival in Kathmandu

Today, you will arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport and meet our representative who will transfer you to your hotel. Spend some quality time exploring the bustling nightlife of Thamel and the lifestyle of the locals. Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • Maximum Altitude1300m

The sightseeing tour commences with a brief visit to the major UNESCO world heritage sites of the Kathmandu valley. Acquaint yourself with the landmarks of the Kathmandu valley like Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, and Swayambhunath. After lunch, we will head to the premises of the Kathmandu Durbar Square. Head back to the hotel after visiting these sites. Overnight in Kathmandu.

    Wake up early and catch a quick flight to Lamidanda. Lamidanda sits in the Khotang district and is labeled by many to be the gateway to the Halesi Mahadev Temple. Upon arrival, head to the hotel and getting all the necessities sorted, we trek to the Halesi Mahadev Temple. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is the most religious place in eastern Nepal. You can see a large number of devotees and pilgrims residing here. Overnight in Halesi.

      Wake up early and venture out to fully explore the myths and mysteries of the Halesi Mahadev Temple. The Halesi Mahadev Temple houses three major caves and it is believed that those caves symbolize the three eyes of Shiva. The first cave is an image of Lord Shiva, the second one is an image of Nandi and the final one is the image of Bhairav. The cave is associated with Buddhism as well. The cave is well below the ground surface. After visiting the caves, we head to the hotel. Overnight in Halesi.

        Another day of exploring and sightseeing awaits us today. The Halesi Mahadev temple is an important place not only for Hindus but for Buddhists as well. Nearby the temple lies the Matrika Monastery which is famous among Buddhists. There is a cave nearby and it is believed that Guru Rinpoche had once meditated in these caves. Explore the nearby hills and spend some time in the serenity. Overnight in Halesi.

          The trip is nearing its end and we shall head to Lamidanda today to bring it to an end. The trail is relatively nice and it provides ample time to observe and interact with the locals and tourists. The walk takes a short while and we can finish it quickly. After you arrive at Lamidanda, you can explore around the area. Overnight in Lamidanda.

            Catch a quick flight to Kathmandu from Lamidanda. The short flight provides a brief display of the surrounding hills and mountains. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel and spend the day by either further exploring the valley or resting at the hotel. You can also head to the wellness centers in the city. Overnight in Kathmandu.

              We shall head towards the majestic Patan Durbar Square and then later into the Bhaktapur Durbar Square. At Patan, we will visit the Krishna temple and the Bhimsen temple too. Marvel at the architectural drama of these ancient relics and learn more about the Newari architecture. We shall visit the Bhaktapur Durbar Square and taste the local curd and the Naytapola temple. Later, we head back to the hotel and the company will host you a farewell dinner. Overnight in Kathmandu.

                Today is your final day in Nepal and our representative will drop you off at the Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure. Goodbye and Thanks!

                  Cost Details

                  IncludedExcluded
                  • Airport picks up and drop by private vehicle.
                  • 4 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu with bed and breakfast basis.
                  • Kathmandu sightseeing by Private guide and private transportation
                  • Kathmandu – Lamidanda – Kathmandu flight fare.
                  • All ground transportation by private vehicle.
                  • Your standard meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trekking.
                  • All necessary paper works and conservation entry permits.
                  • All accommodations in hotels, lodges/tea houses during the trek.
                  • An experienced Government licensed guide and porters.
                  • Medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
                  • Farewell dinner with typical Nepali restaurant
                  • All government taxes.
                  • International Airfare
                  • Nepal entry visa
                  • Personal Expenses
                  • Travel and Rescue Insurance
                  • Extra accommodation and food charges in Kathmandu
                  • Tips and gratitude to the guide, porters and drivers

                  Useful Info

                  The best times for this tour are from September to November and March to May. During these months, the sky is clear and the trails are perfect for trekking. Also, the trek is an easy one and can be done by anyone.

                  At Eternal Himalaya, we provide all the services required on the Khotang Halesi Cultural Trek. We provide you with expert guides and porters, if necessary. Similarly, we have many other trip packages to offer you that takes you around the best destinations in Nepal.