Fikuri is a scenic hill station close to Kathmandu, located in Ward 2 of Kispang Rural Municipality, Nuwakot. The name derives from the Tamang word ‘Fikyuba,’ meaning “Dhani danda” or “the wealthy hill.” In earlier times, it was known as Fikyuba. Over time, the pronunciation evolved into Fikuri. Fikuri Danda is a gift of nature and a repository of biodiversity. The ancestors were precise in calling it “the wealthy hill.”
At 3,568 meters, Fikuri offers a long panorama of the Himalayas: Langtang, Ganesh, Dorje Lakpa, Manaslu, Annapurna, and many more. On clear days, the Kathmandu Valley, Gosainkunda, and Trishuli
You may also like: Sparkling Manaslu - Nepals Hidden Himalayan Gem
Bazaar appear distinctly below. The sunrise and sunset views are equally compelling.
Fikuri is also a sacred landscape, a shared site of reverence for both Hindus and Buddhists. It is believed to be the abode of Lord Buddha and Lord Mahadev. On the ridge stand Buddhist mane walls and a Mahadev temple. A large fair takes place on ekadashi (the eleventh day of the lunar fortnight), drawing lamas, shamans, and pilgrims in significant numbers.
There are no hotels on Fikuri Danda. During festival periods, temporary tented shops are set up to provide food and basic lodging. Below Fikuri, in Dhuwanchhap, there are shepherd shelters where visitors can also spend the night.
In the lap of Fikuri lie villages such as Taji, Gokarna, Gong, and Bhalche in Nuwakot, and Thulo Gaun in Rasuwa. Thulo Gaun is home to Gurung and Tamang communities, while other villages are inhabited by Tamang, Brahmin, and other groups. These settlements offer opportunities to observe shamans' lifestyles and cultural practices.
The nature, culture, and everyday life of the Fikuri region are compelling. The Rasuwa–Nuwakot Tourism Society has branded the route as the “Fikuri Eco Trek” to promote tourism. For several years, foreign trekkers have been visiting the area.
They undertake camping treks, pitching tents along the ridge. Establishing hotels or lodges at two points above Manegaun would strengthen the destination’s infrastructure.
Fikuri/Dhani Danda can also be promoted as a gateway to other trekking routes such as Ruby Valley, the Tamang Heritage Trail, and Singla Bhanjyang.
You may also read: Complete Guide on Ama Yangri Trek and Tips for Trekkers
Not only for international visitors, Fikuri can also serve as a short, accessible, and affordable destination for domestic tourists.
How to Get to Fikuri/Dhani Danda
From Kathmandu, follow the Tokha–Chhahare road section to Trishuli, then take the route toward Kispang village via Nuchet, reaching Gong Bhanjyang. The drive by jeep takes approximately seven hours. The next day, a two-hour uphill walk from the pass leads to Fikuri/Dhani Danda. After exploring Fikuri, you can return to Kathmandu the same evening. Trekking enthusiasts, however, should plan a four-day itinerary.
Fikuri/Dhani Danda Trek Itinerary
Day One
Kathmandu – Trishuli – Bhalche (1,850 m), eight hours by bus.
Day Two
Bhalche – Sheep Farm – Gong Bhanjyang (2,900 m), seven hours of trekking.
Day Three
Gong – Fikuri Danda – Kispang Gumba, seven hours of trekking.
Day Four
Kispang – Trishuli – Kathmandu, six hours by bus.
Promoter of Fikuri/Dhani Danda
Urja Tamang is widely recognized as the promoter of Fikuri. Born and raised in Manegaun, Ward 5 of Kispang Rural Municipality, Nuwakot, he now guides visitors around Fikuri. He is the head of Alliance Adventure Pvt. Ltd.
He is not the first to promote Fikuri/Dhani Danda. Long before him, Dr David and Dr Cath from Cornell University in New York brought tourists to the area. Urja worked with them for several years.
His mentor is Malaysian national Apaun Muzzafar, who leads tours across Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. Rising in the tourism sector from the role of a porter, Urja has established himself as a successful tourism professional. Yet he has not forgotten his roots. “We must contribute what we can to our birthplace,” says the forty-year-old Urja. “We will make Fikuri a model destination.”
He remains ready at all times to guide travellers to Fikuri.
Contact: 9851155702
