Experience in Dhulikhel, Nepal by Bishal

What is it like to live in Dhulikhel? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Dhulikhel is one of the get away cities for people of Kathmandu. It is about 26 Kilometers from Kathmandu. It is surrounded by splendid hills and the view of the Himalayan Mountains are mesmerizing. It is a definitely a place to visit if a person likes peace and quite places. The city center is quite noisy and dusty, but if you go to the outskirts of the city then you will be surrounded my forests. You can go Hiking to Namobuddha (a Buddhist Monastry) or Balthali (my recommendation). From there places you will have an amazing view of the Himalayas.

What is the student lifestyle like in Dhulikhel?

The main campus of Kathmandu University lies 3 kilometers from Dhulikhlel. The university in fast paced lifestyle during the lecture hours and laid back lifestyle during non-lecture hours. Different departments has its own student-run clubs where students can participate in. They organize Football competitions, Club fairs, Hiking and music festivals. There are also non-academic clubs such as Amnesty International, Red Cross and Rotract Club. In our club of Environmental Engineers, we organize club fairs in World Environment Day, music festivals, Hiking, Tree Plantation campaign, Football, Volleyball competitions etc.

How much does it cost to live in Dhulikhel?

For a student it is quite cheap even in Private housing. There are lots of houses in and near the university. It can range from Nrs.4000 ($40) to Nrs. 6000 ($60) per month depending on type of housing. One down side about private housing is that the landlords do not use technologies such as website etc. So only way to book an accommodation is to physically go there.
University accommodation are cheaper, about Nrs.7000 ($70) per semester (at the time I was studying). You will be provided with a bed frame, table, chair and a wadrobe.

International students have an option of staying at an International Hostel which are relatively expensive. For price please contact the University.

Talking about food, Food in subsidized by the university. At the university canteen a full meal containing Rice, lentils, Curry and pickle costs Nrs.60 (60 cents) ( at the time I was studying). There are other places to eat as well outside the university but can be more expensive. You can get different varieties of Nepalese food but can cost upto Nrs150 ($1.5) per meal.

In summary, average per month cost would be Nrs.10,000 ($100).

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Dhulikhel? Is there any advice you can give?

Since, the people does not use website, only way to book an accommodation is to physically go there. Fully furnished room in private market is quite rare.

Even for University accommodation, there is an interview process which, all applicant have to go through.

So, accommodation process is quite difficult in the area.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Food is quite normal in Dhulikehl at the university. If you travel to the Dhulikhel city, you will find an authentic Newari (Newars are one of the indigenous people of Nepal) cuisines. But it can be expensive in good places. You will find most loved dish by Nepali people- Mo Mo. You can find it literally everywhere. So, no surprise my favorite dish is Momo.

What places would you recommend visiting in Dhulikhel?

I would definitely recommend visit Panauti (an old settlement of Newars) which has wonderful architectures, cultures and cuisines. It is about 10 kilometers from Dhulikhel.
For wore scenery and Hiking experience, I would recommend hike to Balthali, Nagarkot and Namobuddha. You will be greeted with beautiful mountiain ranges. If you decide to go during spring, beautiful bloomed flowers will cross your way.

Is it good to eat out in Dhulikhel? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

There are lots of places you can eat out in Dhulikhel. It ranges from affordable local places to expensive 5-star hotels. I usually prefer local places but work what your body allows you.

Is the nightlife good in Dhulikhel? Where is good to go?

There are not many bars in Dhulikhel. So, it is fair to say that nightlife is non-existent in Dhulikhel. Many local places close around 10 P.M.

What advice would you give future students heading to Dhulikhel?

Firstly, I would recommend future students to book their accommodation early, if you are aiming for private housing. If you cannot physically be present, ask someone to book it for you. Secondly, try hiking to nearby places, It is amazing. Thirdly, take part in seminars, club fairs and events. And, lastly, don't leave your assignment till the very end. Deadline is closer than you think.