Things To Do
in Barīkot

Barīkot is a charming village located in the mid-hills of Nepal, known for its historical significance and natural beauty. It is surrounded by lush landscapes, terraced fields, and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. The village is rich in cultural heritage, with ancient ruins that date back to the Licchavi period, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.

Its tranquil environment and friendly locals create a welcoming atmosphere for travelers seeking an authentic Nepali experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Barīkot's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional Nepali breakfast at a local café, enjoying dishes like 'aloo paratha' and 'masala tea'. After breakfast, visit the ancient ruins of Barīkot, including the remnants of the Licchavi palace and the historical Buddhist stupas.

afternoon
:

Post-lunch, hike to the nearby Chautara viewpoint for panoramic views of the surrounding hills and terraced fields. Take your time to capture the stunning landscapes and immerse yourself in the serene environment.

evening
:

Conclude your day with dinner at a local restaurant, sampling 'dal bhat' (rice and lentil soup) and fresh vegetables. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the village to experience the local lifestyle and culture.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with an early morning visit to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for handicrafts and fresh produce. Enjoy a local breakfast of 'sel roti' (rice-based doughnut) and 'milk tea'.

afternoon
:

After breakfast, embark on a guided trek to the nearby village of Ghale Gaun, where you can learn about the local Gurung culture and enjoy traditional hospitality.

evening
:

Return to Barīkot and enjoy a cultural program featuring traditional music and dance. Sample local snacks like 'momos' (dumplings) and 'chowmein' for dinner.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at Local Restaurant$3-5
Coffee$1-2
🚖Taxi Fare (within town)$2-4
🛏️Budget Hotel (per night)$10-15
🧑‍🤝‍🧑Guided Tour$15-30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Beautiful natural landscapes
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Access to healthcare may be basic
  • Inconsistent transportation services
  • "नमस्ते" - Hello
  • "धन्यवाद" - Thank you
  • "तपाईंलाई कस्तो छ?" - How are you?
  • "म माफी चाहन्छु" - I am sorry
  • "कृपया" - Please

Places to Visit in Barīkot

Visit one of these nice places.

Chautara Viewpoint

A popular spot for breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayan range, perfect for landscape photography.

Ancient Ruins

Capture the beauty of Barīkot's historical sites, including ancient stupas and the Licchavi palace remnants.

Local Market

A lively place filled with vibrant colors and local interactions, ideal for candid shots of daily life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Barīkot

Barīkot offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing traditional Nepali dishes that reflect the rich culture of the region.

Barīkot Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Dal Bhat

A traditional meal consisting of steamed rice (bhat) served with lentil soup (dal) and a variety of accompaniments.

Must-Try!

Momos

Steamed or fried dumplings filled with vegetables or meat, served with a spicy dipping sauce.

Aloo Paratha

Flatbread stuffed with spiced potatoes, often served with yogurt or pickles.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Barīkot Local Market

A vibrant market where locals sell fresh produce, spices, and handcrafted items. It's a great place to try street food and interact with friendly vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Barīkot experiences a subtropical highland climate with four distinct seasons. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities. Summers can be warm, especially during the day, while winters are cold with temperatures often dropping at night. Rainfall is common during the monsoon season, particularly from June to August.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Local Customs

Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or their property.

Dress Modestly

Wear modest clothing, especially when visiting religious sites or local homes.

Use Your Right Hand

Use your right hand for giving and receiving items, as the left hand is considered unclean.

Safety Guide

Safety

Barīkot is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it's advisable to take standard precautions. Keep your belongings secure and avoid walking alone at night. Familiarize yourself with local emergency contacts and have a basic understanding of the area.

Tipping in Barīkot

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is the preferred payment method in Barīkot, as credit cards may not be accepted everywhere.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March to May)

Spring offers mild weather and blooming flowers, making it a perfect time for trekking and outdoor activities.

Monsoon (June to August)

Expect heavy rainfall during this season, which may limit outdoor activities but enhances the lush greenery of the region.

Autumn (September to November)

The weather is clear and pleasant, providing excellent visibility for mountain views and ideal conditions for trekking.

Winter (December to February)

Cold temperatures and possible snow in higher altitudes can make travel challenging, but the scenery is stunning.

Nightlife Guide

Barīkot at Night

Barīkot has a tranquil nightlife scene, mostly centered around local eateries and small gatherings. While there are limited bars, some restaurants may offer live music on weekends. The focus is more on socializing with locals and enjoying the serene environment under the stars.

Hiking in Barīkot

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ghale Gaun Trek

A scenic trek that takes you through lush forests and offers stunning views of the Annapurna range, ending in the beautiful Gurung village of Ghale Gaun.

Bhadaure-Talchok Trek

This trek leads you through terraced fields and charming villages, providing an authentic experience of rural Nepali life while enjoying breathtaking mountain views.

Airports

How to reach Barīkot by plane.

Pokhara Airport (PKR)

Located about 2 hours away from Barīkot, Pokhara Airport serves domestic flights and is the nearest major airport. It connects travelers to Kathmandu and other destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Barīkot is relatively walkable, with many attractions located within walking distance of each other. The village's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, allowing visitors to soak in the local atmosphere. However, some paths may be steep or uneven, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Gurung Community

The Gurung people are one of the prominent ethnic groups in the region, known for their rich traditions and hospitality.

Brahmin Community

The Brahmin community in Barīkot contributes to the cultural diversity, often engaged in agriculture and local administration.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport among locals, with many playing in the open fields and community grounds.

Traditional Archery

Archery is a cultural sport in the region, with local competitions held during festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Barīkot is generally light, with most residents using bicycles or walking. Public transportation consists mainly of local buses and shared taxis, which connect Barīkot to nearby towns. Roads can be narrow and winding, so caution is advised while traveling.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Barīkot.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to specify your dietary preferences.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited, but rice-based dishes are widely available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Barīkot is limited, with basic facilities available for minor ailments. For serious medical conditions, it is advisable to travel to larger towns or cities like Pokhara. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Nepal

Read more in our Nepal 2025 Travel Guide.

Nepal Travel Guide