Route · Eastern Nepal
Dhankuta to Hile
Dhankuta to Hile is about 13 km north along the Koshi Highway, a 30–40 minute drive that climbs from about 1,190 m to about 1,950 m along the ridge, past tea gardens and farm villages.
A short, scenic drive up the ridge with views over the hills on both sides. Stop at a tea garden on the way if you have booked a visit. Hile is a natural place for lunch or a tongba evening before continuing north to Basantapur or Khandbari.
Frequent buses and jeeps running north from Dharan and Dhankuta to Hile, Basantapur and Khandbari stop in both towns. They are cheap and run through the day. Expect crowded seats around festivals.
Worth a stop on the way
- Tea gardens on the ridge
- Farm villages above Dhankuta
Local tip
Drive up in the late afternoon, check into a lodge in Hile and walk the ridge at sunrise the next day.
Questions
How far is Hile from Dhankuta?
About 13 km north along the Koshi Highway, or 30–40 minutes by car. The road climbs roughly 750 m from Dhankuta to Hile's ridge at about 1,948 m.
Should I stay in Dhankuta or Hile?
Dhankuta has the calmer old bazaar and orange orchards; Hile has cooler air, tongba kitchens and sunrise views from the ridge. With one night, choose Hile for atmosphere. With two, spend one in each.
Can I walk from Dhankuta to Hile?
Yes, local footpaths link the two through farm villages and tea gardens, a walk of roughly 4–5 hours uphill. A guide helps with route-finding, as paths cross the highway and fork often.
What is beyond Hile on the road north?
North of Hile the road continues to Basantapur, gateway to the Tinjure–Milke–Jaljale rhododendron ridge, and on to Khandbari and Tumlingtar in Sankhuwasabha, the starting point for the Makalu trek.