Bungamati and Khokana
In Nepali: बुङमती र खोकना
Bungamati is the winter home of Rato Machhindranath (Bunga Dyah), the rain god whose huge chariot is pulled through Patan each spring. The village square centres on his shikhara temple, and the lanes are full of woodcarving workshops.
A short walk away, Khokana is known for its traditional mustard-oil mills (kol), where oil is still pressed with heavy wooden beams, and for the Rudrayani temple. Both villages were heavily damaged in 2015 and are rebuilding; a slow walk between them is one of the best half-days in the valley.
What to see and do
In Bungamati, visit the Rato Machhindranath temple in the main square, the Karya Binayak temple nearby, and the woodcarvers' workshops. Walk the field path to Khokana to see its oil mills, the Rudrayani temple and the ponds, and enjoy views over the Bagmati valley.
Good to know
Both villages are close to the Kathmandu ring road but feel rural. Combine them in a half-day by taxi or bicycle. Buying crafts directly from workshops supports local families.
Quick answers
- Where is Bungamati and Khokana?
- Bungamati and Khokana is in Lalitpur district, Bagmati Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Bungamati and Khokana?
- About 1,350 m (4,429 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Bungamati and Khokana?
- Bungamati and Khokana is in or right next to Kathmandu, so it is an easy day visit. Budget for a taxi there and back (about NPR 600–1,500, US$5–11) and meals (NPR 1,000–2,500, US$8–19 per person). If you stay in Kathmandu, rooms cost about NPR 1,500 / US$11–NPR 4,500 / US$33 a night.
- How many days do I need for Bungamati and Khokana?
- Half a day to a full day is enough; it is a short ride from central Kathmandu.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Bungamati and Khokana?
- No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
- When is the best time to visit Bungamati and Khokana?
- October–May
- How do I get to Bungamati and Khokana?
- About 30–40 minutes south of Patan. It is about 10 km (straight line) from Kathmandu.
- What is Bungamati and Khokana called in Nepali?
- बुङमती र खोकना
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