Ajaymerukot
In Nepali: अजयमेरुकोट
Ruins of the palace-fort of the Doti kings on a forested ridge, the first capital of the far-western kingdom.
Ajaymerukot is believed to have been founded by the Doti king Ajay Pal and served as an early capital of the kingdom. Stone walls, gateways, water tanks and temple foundations are scattered over a ridge in the pine and oak forest north of Dadeldhura.
The site has been partly excavated and protected. It is a peaceful place with views of the Himalaya in the Api and Saipal ranges on clear days.
What to see and do
Walk among the fort's stone walls, gates and water tanks, visit the temple on site, and take in views of the forested hills and distant Himalaya.
Good to know
There are few facilities; bring water. Dadeldhura town has hotels.
Quick answers
- Where is Ajaymerukot?
- Ajaymerukot is in Dadeldhura district, Sudurpashchim Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Ajaymerukot?
- About 1,900 m (6,234 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Ajaymerukot?
- For a 3-day trip from Dhangadhi, about NPR 5,000 (≈ US$37) per person on a budget, or NPR 16,000 (≈ US$120) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 5,000 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Ajaymerukot?
- Plan 1 night there; with travel from Dhangadhi and back, about 3 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Ajaymerukot?
- No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
- When is the best time to visit Ajaymerukot?
- October–April
- How do I get to Ajaymerukot?
- By road from Dadeldhura (Amargadhi), then a short walk. It is about 69 km (straight line) from Dhangadhi.
- What is Ajaymerukot called in Nepali?
- अजयमेरुकोट
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