Shaileshwari and Silgadhi
In Nepali: शैलेश्वरी र सिलगढी · Also known as: Silgadhi · Dipayal · शैलेश्वरी
Silgadhi was the old capital of the Doti region, and the Shaileshwari temple on its ridge is the most important shrine of the far west. Her jatra during Dashain and the Chaite festival bring huge crowds, with deuda singing and dancing.
Across the Seti river lies Dipayal, the former regional headquarters. From here, roads lead up to the Khaptad trailhead and to the old Doti fort of Ajaymerukot in Dadeldhura.
What to see and do
Visit the Shaileshwari temple and old Silgadhi bazaar with its traditional houses, and cross to Dipayal for the Seti riverside. During festivals, watch deuda dancing — lines of people with linked arms singing call-and-response verses.
Good to know
Silgadhi and Dipayal have simple hotels. The road from Dhangadhi is long and winding.
Quick answers
- Where is Shaileshwari and Silgadhi?
- Shaileshwari and Silgadhi is in Doti district, Sudurpashchim Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Shaileshwari and Silgadhi?
- About 1,300 m (4,265 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Shaileshwari and Silgadhi?
- For a 3-day trip from Dhangadhi, about NPR 5,000 (≈ US$37) per person on a budget, or NPR 16,500 (≈ 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 Shaileshwari and Silgadhi?
- Plan 1 night there; with travel from Dhangadhi and back, about 3 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Shaileshwari and Silgadhi?
- No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
- When is the best time to visit Shaileshwari and Silgadhi?
- Dashain; Chaitra; October–April
- How do I get to Shaileshwari and Silgadhi?
- About 6–7 hours by road from Dhangadhi. It is about 71 km (straight line) from Dhangadhi.
- What is Shaileshwari and Silgadhi called in Nepali?
- शैलेश्वरी र सिलगढी
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