The Dhap Dam hike is a popular hiking trail located in Nepal. The hike takes you through the beautiful and picturesque landscapes of the Dhap region, with the highlight being the Dhap Dam, a magnificent man-made reservoir. This dam is 24 m high and 175 m wide which can store 850,000 m3 of water. The purpose of this dam is to increase water flow in the Bagmati River during the dry season.
The hike starts from Sundarijal and follows a well-trodden path through forests and pastures, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail is relatively easy and suitable for hikers of all levels, but it can get steep and challenging in some sections.
Along the way, you will pass through several traditional villages where you can experience the local culture and interact with the friendly locals. You can also take a dip in the cool, refreshing waters of the Dhap Dam and relax in the peaceful surroundings.
The entire hike can be completed in one day, but many hikers choose to stay overnight in one of the local guesthouses and continue their trek the next day. The best time to do the Dhap Dam hike is from September to November or from March to May when the weather is clear and the views are spectacular.
The exact distance of the Dhap Dam hike can vary depending on the starting point and the specific route taken. However, on average, the hike is around 8-10 kilometers (5-6 miles) long and takes approximately 4-6 hours to complete.
The trail follows a well-trodden path through forests and pastures, with some steep and challenging sections along the way. Hikers can expect to cover a variety of terrain, including rocky paths, grassy slopes, and narrow ridges, with some sections requiring a bit of scrambling or climbing.
Overall, the Dhap Dam hike is a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty and culture of Nepal and is definitely worth adding to your hiking itinerary if you are planning a trip to the region.
Trip Highlights
The Dhap Dam hike offers a range of highlights for hikers, including:
- Scenic beauty: The Dhap Dam hike offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, with picturesque landscapes that are sure to take your breath away.
- Traditional villages: Along the trail, hikers will pass through several traditional villages where they can experience the local culture and interact with the friendly locals. This is a great opportunity to learn about the customs and way of life of the people who live in this region.
- Dhap Dam: The highlight of the hike is the Dhap Dam itself, a magnificent man-made reservoir that is a popular spot for swimming and relaxing. The clear, cool waters are a welcome relief after a long day of hiking.
- Wildlife: The Dhap region is home to a range of wildlife, including monkeys, deer, and a variety of bird species. Keep your eyes peeled for these creatures as you make your way along the trail.
- Peaceful surroundings: The Dhap Dam hike is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in nature. The peaceful surroundings and tranquil atmosphere make it the perfect place to unwind and relax.
Overall, the Dhap Dam hike offers a range of highlights that are sure to appeal to hikers of all levels. Whether you're an experienced trekker or a beginner looking for a new adventure, this hike has something for everyone.
Trip Includes
Transportation by private car
English speaking guide
National park entrance permits
Lunch (local tea house )
Trip Excludes
Drinks, snacks, tipping
Useful Information
-
Location: The Dhap Dam is located in the north-western part of the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, which is about 12 km away from Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal.
-
Height: The height of the Dhap Dam is around 24 meters
-
Reservoir capacity: The reservoir created by the Dhap Dam has a capacity of around 850,000 cubic meters of water.
-
Hiking: The Dhap Dam is a popular destination for hikers who want to explore the national park. The trail to the dam offers beautiful views of the park and the surrounding hills.
-
Water supply: The water from the reservoir created by the Dhap Dam is used for irrigation and for supplying drinking water to the nearby villages.
-
Wildlife: The national park is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, leopards, deer, and many species of birds. Visitors to the Dhap Dam may have the chance to spot some of these animals during their hike.
-
Permits: Visitors to the national park are required to obtain a permit from the park authorities before entering. These permits can be obtained from the park entrance or from the park headquarters in Kathmandu.
Overall, the Dhap Dam is a beautiful destination for anyone interested in hiking, wildlife, and natural scenery. However, visitors should be prepared for a challenging hike and should respect the rules and regulations of the national park.