
Sikali Temple Khokana
A serene escape with lush greenery and a majestic temple, perfect for picnics and cultural immersion near Kathmandu.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy tranquility and fewer crowds.

Sikali Temple Khokana
Best Time
Enjoy tranquility and fewer crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene escape with lush greenery and a majestic temple, perfect for picnics and cultural immersion near Kathmandu.
"A perfect place near the city to hang out with friends and family, surrounded by nature."

🎯 Pack a Picnic Basket
Enjoy a dry picnic on the expansive grounds. Many visitors opt for this for a relaxed outing.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Convenient free parking is available, making it easy to access the temple and grounds.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sikali Temple
Khokana, Lalitpur
A majestic three-story temple dedicated to Goddess Rudrayani, a protector of the locals. Its unique architecture and spiritual ambiance are captivating.

Sikali Chaur
Adjacent to the temple
Expansive green grounds perfect for picnics, relaxation, and family outings. Enjoy the fresh air and peaceful surroundings.

Khokana Village Charm
Khokana
Experience the authentic Newari culture, famous for its mustard oil and historical significance as the first place in Nepal with electric lights.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape the City Buzz
Respect the Heritage
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Pack a Picnic Basket
Enjoy a dry picnic on the expansive grounds. Many visitors opt for this for a relaxed outing.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Convenient free parking is available, making it easy to access the temple and grounds.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the grounds and village, so wear comfy shoes.
📱 Capture the Moments
Bring your phone or camera to capture the temple's beauty and the serene surroundings.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Pack a Picnic Basket
Enjoy a dry picnic on the expansive grounds. Many visitors opt for this for a relaxed outing.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Convenient free parking is available, making it easy to access the temple and grounds.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the grounds and village, so wear comfy shoes.
📱 Capture the Moments
Bring your phone or camera to capture the temple's beauty and the serene surroundings.
♻️ Be a Responsible Tourist
Help keep the site clean by disposing of your trash properly. Avoid littering.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sikali Temple Khokana is praised as a perfect, nature-filled escape near the city for friends and family picnics. Visitors enjoy the greenery and peaceful vibes, though weekends can be crowded with picnickers and content creators. Concerns exist regarding littering and the preservation of this heritage site.
"A perfect place near the city to hang out with friends and family, surrounded by nature.
It has a large open ground with lots of greenery—an ideal spot to relax and enjoy. However, if you prefer peace and quiet, it's best to avoid weekends, as it gets very crowded with people making TikToks and having picnics."
Purushottam Kunwar
"I am kind of concerned about the preservation of this heritage site. Despite its religious significance a lot of people were littering this place with plastic bottles and packaged foods. Ignorant travellers are the last thing that this vulnerable destination should be welcoming."
Rubik Joshi
"A very nice place for a picnic or a chill-out moment, not far from Kathmandu. There's also a good restaurant with a menu that offers a great range of food and beverages. It's also a guesthouse with ok rooms."
Fred “Ānanda” Anselme
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sikali Temple in Khokana is conveniently located about 4.4 km from Ekantakuna Chowk in Lalitpur, making it a short drive from Kathmandu Valley. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus towards Khokana. Many visitors find it easy to reach by private vehicle.
Yes, there is free parking available at Sikali Chaur, which is adjacent to the temple. This makes it easy for visitors arriving by car.
Sikali Temple Khokana is approximately 7-8 kilometers from Patan Durbar Square, a relatively short and accessible journey by taxi or local transport.
Taxis are readily available in Kathmandu and Lalitpur. You can easily hire one to take you directly to Sikali Temple Khokana. It's advisable to agree on the fare beforehand.
While most routes are generally fine, it's always good to check local traffic conditions. The roads leading to Khokana are usually well-maintained, but minor diversions can occur.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Sikali Temple and the surrounding Sikali Chaur. It is a free-access public space.
Sikali Temple and its grounds are generally accessible throughout the day. However, for the most peaceful experience, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
Yes, you can visit during festivals like the Sikali Jatra, which is celebrated annually around Dashain. This is a special time to witness local traditions.
No advance booking is required as there is no admission fee. You can visit anytime.
Generally, photography is allowed. However, it's always respectful to be mindful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography, especially inside the temple premises.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a dry picnic, relax in the greenery, take photos, explore the village, and experience the peaceful ambiance. Horse riding is also available.
Absolutely! The large open grounds with greenery make it a great spot for families to have picnics and spend quality time outdoors.
Wander through the village, observe the traditional Newari architecture, and learn about its history, including the famous mustard oil production and its role in Nepal's electrification.
While specific restroom facilities might be limited, some nearby restaurants or guesthouses may offer them. It's advisable to check locally upon arrival.
The Sikali Jatra is a significant annual festival celebrated around Dashain, where Goddess Rudrayani is worshipped. It's an alternative to the traditional Dashain celebrations for the Newars of Khokana.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are restaurants and guesthouses in Khokana that offer a good range of food and beverages. One reviewer mentioned a restaurant with tasty food.
You can expect traditional Newari cuisine. Khokana is particularly famous for its mustard oil, so dishes prepared with it are a local specialty.
Based on reviews, the local restaurants offer tasty food and a pleasant dining experience, making them a good option for visitors.
Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is very common and encouraged, especially for families and groups.
Traditional Newari cuisine often includes vegetarian dishes. It's best to inquire with the restaurant staff about their specific offerings.
📸 📸 Photography
The three-story temple itself offers stunning architectural shots. The expansive green grounds (Sikali Chaur) provide beautiful natural backdrops, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Photography is generally permitted. However, always be respectful of worshippers and avoid taking photos inside the inner sanctum if it's not permitted.
Early mornings offer serene light and fewer crowds, ideal for peaceful shots. Late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour light. Weekends can be busy with people creating content.
Yes, explore the traditional Newari houses, narrow alleys, and the iconic mustard oil presses for unique cultural photography.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both the temple's grandeur and village details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the expansive grounds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🌿 Nature Lovers & Picnickers
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Heart: Sikali Temple
The temple's architecture is a testament to traditional Newari craftsmanship, drawing visitors who appreciate its aesthetic and religious significance. The atmosphere around the temple is often described as peaceful, especially during off-peak hours, offering a moment of calm reflection.
It's important to note that while the temple is a sacred site, the surrounding area, Sikali Chaur, is also a popular spot for recreation. Visitors are encouraged to maintain a respectful demeanor, especially when near the temple itself, and to be mindful of ongoing religious activities.
Khokana: A Village Steeped in History and Tradition
Visitors can explore the narrow, winding alleys of Khokana, admiring the well-preserved Newari architecture, intricate wood carvings, and traditional courtyards. The village offers a glimpse into a slower pace of life, where ancient customs are still practiced. The suspension bridge near Khokana is also a notable landmark, offering scenic views and a bit of adventure.
Experiencing Khokana involves immersing yourself in its unique heritage. From the spiritual significance of the Sikali Temple to the everyday life of its residents, the village provides a rich cultural tapestry. It’s a place where history, tradition, and community intertwine, offering a truly authentic Nepalese experience.
Recreation and Relaxation at Sikali Chaur
Many visitors describe Sikali Chaur as a perfect place to hang out with friends and family, appreciating the natural beauty and peaceful vibes. The availability of horse riding adds an element of fun, particularly for younger visitors. However, it's worth noting that on weekends, this serene spot can become quite lively, with many people enjoying picnics and even creating content for social media.
While the recreational aspect is a major draw, there's a growing concern among visitors about littering and the preservation of this heritage site. Responsible tourism practices, such as proper waste disposal, are crucial to maintaining the beauty and integrity of Sikali Chaur for future generations.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit