Dhangadhi
In Nepali: धनगढी
The largest city of the far west and its main airport, a lively border town with Tharu villages all around.
Dhangadhi grew rapidly from a small border market into the commercial centre of Sudurpashchim Province. Flights from Kathmandu make it the usual entry point for Shuklaphanta, Khaptad and the far-western hills.
Around the city, Tharu villages keep their painted houses and traditions; the Rana Tharu of Kailali and Kanchanpur have distinctive embroidered dress and jewellery.
What to see and do
Explore the city's markets, visit the Rana Tharu villages and museum nearby, and use Dhangadhi as a base for Shuklaphanta, Ghodaghodi Lake, Tikapur and the hill roads to Dadeldhura, Doti and Khaptad.
Good to know
Dhangadhi has the widest choice of hotels in the far west and daily flights to Kathmandu. The Gauriphanta border crossing to India is nearby.
Quick answers
- Where is Dhangadhi?
- Dhangadhi is in Kailali district, Sudurpashchim Province, in the Terai belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Dhangadhi?
- About 170 m (558 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Dhangadhi?
- Dhangadhi is in or right next to Dhangadhi, so it is an easy day visit. Budget for a taxi there and back (about NPR 600–1,500, US$5–11) and meals (NPR 1,000–2,500, US$8–19 per person). If you stay in Dhangadhi, rooms cost about NPR 1,500 / US$11–NPR 4,500 / US$33 a night.
- How many days do I need for Dhangadhi?
- Half a day to a full day is enough; it is a short ride from central Dhangadhi.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Dhangadhi?
- No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
- When is the best time to visit Dhangadhi?
- October–March
- How do I get to Dhangadhi?
- Flights from Kathmandu; on the East–West Highway. It is about 5 km (straight line) from Dhangadhi.
- What is Dhangadhi called in Nepali?
- धनगढी
Photo gallery
1 / 9
