All You Need to Know About Manung Kot Hill: Above the Clouds
Recently, Manung Kot is gaining a lot of attention on social media like Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, and Tiktok. This place came into fame by its beautiful floating clouds filled the entire Damauli and sunrise which feels like you are in heaven.
Manung Kot is about 1000 meters above the sea level which lies in the Tanahun District. The distance from Kathmandu is 150 KM and just 43 KM from Pokhara. Because of its beautiful sunrise view and feeling of standing over the cloud experience, this place is a trending destination for local tourism. You will also be amazed to perceive the beautiful peaks above the floating clouds. From this hill, you will witness more than 6 peaks like Mt. Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Lamjung, Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and other small peaks. Besides floating clouds and mesmerizing views of mountains, you can also see Sangey and Seti River on the south.
If you are fond of floating clouds and sunrise view then you have to go there early in the morning. You will be above the clouds which feel like you are in heaven. In the daytime, there will be no clouds but you will see Damauli Bazar. You will also witness amazing landscapes like Gunadi, Madi River, Seti River, Sagi Valley from the top of the Manung Kot.
According to the myth story, this place is popular for its history too, and it’s the home of Bhanu Bhakta Acharya in-laws. It is said that “Maharishi Paeasar” was in love with Machhegand (mother of Maharishi Bedh Bayas). And he used to create the fog to hide the love relationship between them.
How to Reach There?
To reach Manung Kot you first need to get to Damauli (the capital city of Tanahun District). You can get there easily by private or public vehicles. Then from Damauli, you will go through a gravel road which is about 10 KM far. If you are a hiking lover then you can hike from Damauli which takes about 2 to 3 hours.
Hiking
You can hike from Damauli to the top of the Manung Kot. It takes about 2 to 3 hours of hike to reach there. You cannot find any water source, so we suggest you carry water and some chocolate bar before hiking. It will be the best day experience if you are planning to spend your day hike here.
Public Vehicle
Once you reach Damauli from public transportation then you can catch a jeep which will take you to Manung Kot. a Jeep will charge you about Rs. 70 to 100 for a one-way fare.
Private Vehicle or Bike
If you have your own vehicle then it will be a lot easier. You can reach Manung hill from Chapaghat to the top of the hill. The distance from Damauli to Manaung is about 6 KM and it takes about 20 min to reach the top of the hill.
Manung Kot Route Map
Other Attraction
If you want to escape the daily routine and spend a night at camp then this is the best place. You can safely camp here at Manaung Hill near the temple. According to the public, Friday night be best and safe because you can find other campers too here. Singing, dancing, preparing BBQ, and enjoying the city light from the hill will be a remarkable experience.
Another way to experience the Manung Kot is to immerse in Magar Heritage, culture, and organic food. If you are a foodie then you have to taste the local cuisine like Local drinks, Dhido with Gundruk, and local hen which will be the best combination. If you love cultural dance then you have to do pre-reservation to see the Kaura Dance.
From Damauli you can also extend your holiday by traveling to Bandipur, Ghalegaun, or Ghan Pokhara village in just a couples hour ride.
Places to Stay
If you think about the overnight at Manung Kot then there is not so professional hotel or resort till the date. The only best option in homestay or camping on the top of the hill. You will be impressed with the hospitality of the local people. Homestay at Manung is old style and made with mud house. So, don’t expect luxurious and fancy accommodation. If you are comfortable the only plan an overnight trip to Manung, or it may ruin your trip.
Best Time to Visit Manung Kot
Manung Kot is not high altitude destination so you can visit here any day of the year. But we strongly suggest being here from September to February for a great experience.
In another month you can see everything but you may not see low fog which is a primary attraction of this place.
If you want to escape the summer then night camping is the best way to enjoy it. You can also capture the city light from the top of the hill.
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