Things To Do
in Dakṣiṇkāli̇̄

The everyday Nepali plate of rice, lentil soup, pickles and seasonal vegetables — filling, cheap and widely available at teashops and small restaurants.

Must-Try!

Steamed or fried dumplings stuffed with pork, buffalo or vegetables; widely sold at roadside stalls and a good option for a quick bite.

Spiced dried or curried goat/buffalo meat often prepared in small eateries and associated with ritual meat markets near the temple.

Fried rice doughnut (sel roti) often paired with spiced potatoes and available from market vendors during festivals.

Remove shoes, dress modestly, and follow signs or priests’ instructions inside temple precincts. Photography of certain rituals and sacrificial acts may be sensitive — always ask permission.

Use both hands or the right hand to give and receive items, avoid pointing your feet at people or religious objects, and don't touch anyone's head.

A simple 'Namaste' with hands pressed together is a polite and commonly accepted greeting.

Be mindful that some foodstuffs and offerings near the temple are sacred; avoid stepping into areas where offerings are placed and don't take free samples without asking.

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory: round up bills or leave 5–10% in restaurants that have table service; give small tips to guides and drivers (a few dollars) if they provided good service. Cash in Nepali rupees is king in Dakshinkali; smaller vendors and buses will not accept cards.

Carry local currency (NPR) for markets, taxis and small eateries. ATMs are available in Kathmandu and larger towns nearby but are uncommon directly at the temple; some guesthouses accept cards, but expect limited connectivity and prefer cash.

A popular hiking destination south of the valley with mixed forest, birdlife and panoramic views; trails range from moderate to strenuous depending on the route.

Offers a network of trails, forested hills and viewpoints north of Kathmandu — accessible as a longer day hike from the valley and popular for nature walks.

A shorter local route linking Dakshinkali and the historic pilgrimage town of Pharping, passing through village landscapes, monasteries and small shrines.

A hill with a cable car and hiking options offering sweeping views over Kathmandu; easier access combined with cultural sites at the summit.

Indigenous community of the Kathmandu Valley with a rich cultural and culinary tradition that influences the area.

One of the prominent ethnic groups in the southern foothills and surrounding villages, with Tibetan Buddhist cultural ties in nearby areas like Pharping.

Major Hindu groups present in the valley and hinterlands, often active in temple rituals and village administration.

Regular influx of devotees and visitors from across Nepal and neighboring India who come for religious observances and market trade.

Widely played and followed at local and national levels; community fields and informal matches are common in village areas.

A popular pastime across Nepal with informal games in open spaces and occasional organized matches.

Local traditional sports and games like dandi biyo may still be played in rural communities during festivals.

While not a formal sport, trekking, trail running and hillwalking are very popular recreational activities among locals and visitors alike.