Nepal, a country known for its magnificent mountains and mystical valleys. However, there are innumerable treasures hidden from the hustle and bustle of the tourist path just outside the most common tourist areas. One of the treasures is Lakuri Bhanjyang, a beautiful mountain pass to the east of the Kathmandu Valley. While Nagarkot and Dhulikhel receive the prime tourism share, Lakuri Bhanjyang is a more secluded, just as beautiful, and truly authentic experience.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography lover, an avid hiker, or you just consider it a temporary escape from the hustle and bustle of urban living, Lakuri Bhanjyang is a fantastic place to visit. The purpose of this blog is to help you understand everything about Lakuri Bhanjyang: how to get to Lakuri Bhanjyang, what to expect in Lakuri Bhanjyang, what the activity options are in Lakuri Bhanjyang, and, more importantly, why you should choose Lakuri Bhanjyang as your next travel stop in Nepal.
Where is Lakuri Bhanjyang?
Lakuri Bhanjyang exists in the Lalitpur district and is maybe 15km straight southeast of Kathmandu in a beautiful pocket at the head of the border between Kathmandu Valley and Kavre Valley. At an elevation of about 2000m (6500 feet), Lakuri Bhanjyang offers panoramic views of the whole Himalayan range, including Langtang, Gauri Shankar, and surprisingly Mount Everest can even be seen on a clear day.
Lakuri Bhanjyang is very close to the capital, yet it is still relatively uncommercialized. It is one of the few remaining places you will find that is a local place and is safe and quiet.
How to get there?
By Private Vehicle:
If you want to go to Lakuri Bhanjyang from Kathmandu easily, then take a private vehicle. The route goes via Lalitpur pass Godawari or Lamatar. The road in the past two years has been made much better, and you can get to Lakuri Bhanjyang via a car or motorbike.
By Public Transport:
You can get to Lamatar via public bus or microbus at Lagankhel Bus Park and then hike or take a local jeep or motorbike to the top.
Hiking:
A popular way of reaching Lakuri Bhanjyang is by hiking from Lamatar. It’s about a 2 to 3 hour hike, walking through the forests, terraced fields and small villages. It is a moderately challenging hike for beginners and families.
Reasons to Explore Lakuri Bhanjyang.
1. Mind Blowing Sunrise/Sunset
Lakuri Bhanjyang is famous for its amazing sunrise views. Early risers bask in the warm golden glow over the snow-capped Himalayas and the layers of hills slowly emerging from morning’s fog. The sunsets are equally mesmerizing; the colors pink, orange, and purple fill the evening sky above the valley below.
2. Panoramic View of the Himalayan Range
On a clear day, the panoramic view of the Himalayan range is epic from Lakuri Bhanjyang. The peaks of the Himalayas stretch in the northern horizon. You can spot Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Gauri Shankar, and even a distant Mount Everest. For great photography binoculars or a zoom lens will get you the best results.
3. Excellent hiking destination
The hike from Lamatar to Lakuri Bhanjyang is scenic and rewarding. Along the way, you pass rhododendron forests, chir pine forests, and local farms. The wonderful hike is refreshing to be in the woods and mountains. Hikers may find wild birds, butterflies, and mountain flowers, depending on the season.
4. Perfect picnic destination
A wide-open grassy meadow makes Lakuri Bhanjyang a great picnic area for families and groups. Local people often head there on weekends or during festivals to eat together, share music, and play fun games in the open air.
5. Adventure Activities
In recent years, Lakuri Bhanjyang has also become a hotspot for paragliding. You can launch from the hilltop and glide over the beautiful valley below to enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Kathmandu and beyond.
Best Time to Visit Lakuri Bhanjyang
The best time to visit Lakuri Bhanjyang is in the spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) seasons when the air is clear, providing unobstructed views of the Himalayas. In the spring, the flowering rhododendrons add vibrant colors to the trail, while the autumn season offers crisp air and perfect hiking conditions.
While winter can be brutally cold, it can also be stunning, with the occasional snowfall at the hilltop effectively covering all of Lakuri Bhanjyang in white. During this season, the views are often crystal clear and you may feel like you are in a winter wonderland. The monsoon season (June–August) can also be beautiful, as the greenery becomes lush and the flowers are in full bloom. However, the clouds often block views of the mountains, and the trails can be muddy.
Things to Do in Lakuri Bhanjyang
1. Photography
Lakuri Bhanjyang is a natural platform for photographers, the combination of panoramic scenes, local life, and unique lighting will enthrall any photographer! Sunrise and sunset photography are particular favourites.
2. Camping
Some local travel groups will arrange to take groups for the night, to camp at the grassy meadows at Lakuri Bhanjyang. Waking up to views of the Himalayan peaks, is an unforgettable experience!.
3. Bird Watching
Many species of birds inhabit the forests nearby, making it a fantastic location for bird watchers and nature lovers.
4. Cultural Stop
The local villages provide an opportunity to witness local Newari and Tamang culture first hand. The locals are friendly, their housing, food and hospitality will provide a polyculture diversion to your travel.
5. Godawari and Phulchowki
If you are planning a longer itinerary, you should incorporate your visit to Lakuri Bhanjyang with Godawari Botanical Garden or trekking to Phulchowki Hill, the highest point in the valley.
Where to Stay?
There are no larger hotels within Lakuri Bhanjyang, however, there are a few homestays and guest houses which have opened due to recent growth in the area. Here are some options;
- Local Homestays: Basic, simple places which offer home-cooked meals, and very nice hospitality.
- Camping Sites: Perfect for a more adventurous overnight trip out in nature under the stars.
- Local Hotels in Godawari or Lamatar: If you are looking for more amenities, you can stay in one of these two towns, and visit Lakuri Bhanjyang as a day trip!
Tips for Visiting
- Come early if you want to catch the beauty of sunrise! Either hike up or take a vehicle before the crack of dawn.
- Bring water and snacks — there is hardly any food available at the top!
- Dress in layers if visiting during cooler months — especially in the evening when it can get cool fast!
- Mind the local culture and environment! Don’t litter, and only take pictures and memories from the local environment, and respect their customs!
Conclusion
In a country as travel-rich as Nepal, it’s easy to overlook places that aren’t in the guidebooks. Often it is these off the beaten path places like Lakuri Bhanjyang that can provide the best authentic and peaceful experiences.
Whether you are planning to visit Lakuri Bhanjyang for the views of the Himalayas, the beautiful hike, or just to get away from the hustle of the city, Lakuri Bhanjyang is able to combine nature, culture and peacefulness. It’s close enough for a day trip, while still being far enough to feel like an adventurous trip. Lakuri Bhanjyang is a great option for couples, families, hikers, and photographers. If you are in or near the Kathmandu Valley, Lakuri Bhanjyang is a must see sight.
