The Misty Hill Station of Eastern Nepal

Perched at an elevation of 1,420 meters above sea level on the border of Sunsari and Dhankuta districts, Bhedetar (historically known as Sheep’s Butte) is the most popular hill station in Eastern Nepal. Located just 16 kilometers uphill from Dharan along the Koshi Highway, Bhedetar is world-famous for its rapidly shifting weather—alternating between thick, cool mountain fog and clear sunshine within minutes. Offering sweeping views of the Terai plains, rolling green hills, and snow-capped Himalayan peaks, it serves as the ultimate gateway to the mid-hill destinations of Koshi Province.

Quick Facts and Key Information

Location Sangurigadhi Rural Municipality, Dhankuta District, Koshi Province

Elevation 1,420 meters above sea level

Distance from Dharan 16 kilometers North (30 to 35 minutes drive)

Geographic Boundary Natural hill pass linking Sunsari and Dhankuta districts

Key Attractions Charles Tower (Sailung), Skywalk, Namaste Waterfall, Pathibhara Temple

Nearest Airport Biratnagar Airport (Approximately 56 km South)

Historical Significance and The Royal Visit Legacy

Before the construction of the Koshi Highway, Bhedetar served as a traditional trade transit and resting post for porters carrying goods between the Terai plains and the eastern mid-hills. The name Bhedetar originates from the local practice of sheep herders gathering their flocks on the ridge top (Bheda meaning sheep and Tar meaning flat ridge land).

The hill station gained widespread international recognition following the visit of King Charles III (then Prince of Wales) in December 1980. Impressed by the breathtaking panoramic view of the Sapta Koshi river basin and surrounding mountains, the royal visit prompted the construction of a dedicated view tower atop the hill peak, officially named Charles Tower (locally known as Sailung View Tower).

Major Highlights and Viewpoint Attractions

Charles Tower (Sailung Viewpoint)

A historic view tower situated on the highest point of the Bhedetar ridge. Climbing to the top deck reveals 360-degree views of Dharan city, the winding Tamor River, lush forests, and distant views of Mount Kanchenjunga and Mount Makalu on clear mornings.

Namaste Waterfall (Simsuwa)

Located approximately 8 km downhill from Bhedetar toward Dhankuta, this 80-meter-high cascading waterfall flows through a narrow rock canyon. The natural formation of the water stream resembles hands folded in a traditional “Namaste” greeting.

Bhedetar Skywalk Glass Bridge

A modern adventure attraction built extending out over the valley cliffside. The cantilevered glass floor platform allows visitors to walk over open air while taking in thrilling views of the gorge below and the misty valley.

Pathibhara Temple & Sanguri Fort

A sacred hill shrine dedicated to Goddess Pathibhara, located a short walk from Bhedetar Bazaar. Nearby lie the historical stone ruins of Sangurigadhi fort, used by Sen and Kirat kings as an ancient defensive post.

Nearby Attractions in the Eastern Circuit

Nearby Destination	Distance from Bhedetar	Key Features
Dharan Sub-Metropolis	16 km downhill (30 min drive)	Major city known for Budha Subba, Dantakali, Shram Sanskriti Park, and shopping.
Namje Village	4 km east (15 min drive)	Famous Magar cultural village recognized globally for homestays, traditional stone houses, and Atma Basna ridge.
Hile Bazaar & Uttarey	38 km north (1 hour drive)	Bustling hill market town famous for Tongba (millet beer), organic tea gardens, and crisp air.
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve	65 km southwest (1.5 hour drive)	Premier Ramsar wetland sanctuary famous for wild water buffaloes (Arna) and migratory bird watching.

Travel Tips – Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s

Carry a warm jacket, windbreaker, or sweater even during summer, as temperatures drop quickly when mist rolls in.
Taste local hill specialties like fresh organic avocado, local oranges, grilled pork, and warm Tongba.
Drive with extreme caution and use fog lights along the Koshi Highway pass during heavy afternoon mist.
Take a short side trip to nearby Namje Magar village to experience traditional rural homestays.

Don’ts

Do not speed or overtake carelessly along the winding mountain highway curves when visibility drops.
Do not attempt to climb steep slippery rock cliffs near Namaste Waterfall during heavy monsoon downpours.
Do not litter plastic packaging or glass bottles along view tower trails or forest lookouts.

Routes and Transportation Options

From Dharan Sub-Metropolis: Bhedetar is 16 km uphill along the smooth asphalt Koshi Highway. Taxis, local microbuses, and public buses run continuously from Dharan Bus Park (Bhanu Chowk), reaching the hill pass in 30 to 35 minutes.

By Air via Biratnagar Airport: Take a 45-minute flight from Kathmandu (TIA) to Biratnagar Airport. From the airport, hire a direct taxi or ride a highway bus via Itahari and Dharan to reach Bhedetar in about 1.5 to 2 hours (56 km).

Overland Drive from Kathmandu: Long-distance tourist buses and private cars travel 400 km via the BP Highway or East-West Highway passing Itahari and Dharan, taking approximately 10 to 11 hours.

Local Administrative and Tourism Contacts

For official local governance, tourism information, or regional inquiries:

Local Municipality Sangurigadhi Rural Municipality, Bhedetar, Dhankuta
Rural Municipality Office Phone 026-402030 | Email: [email protected]
Official Municipal Website sangurigadhimun.gov.np
Nepal Tourism Board (Kathmandu HQ) Phone: +977-1-4256909 | Website: welcomenepal.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Bhedetar famous?

Bhedetar is famous for its cool climate, rapidly shifting mountain fog, Charles View Tower, Skywalk, and panoramic vistas of both the Terai plains and Himalayan ranges.

How far is Bhedetar from Dharan and Biratnagar Airport?

Bhedetar is located 16 km north of Dharan Sub-Metropolis (30 minutes drive) and 56 km north of Biratnagar Airport (1.5 to 2 hours drive).

Why is the view tower called Charles Tower?

The tower was built on the hill peak visited by King Charles III (then Prince of Wales) during his tour of Eastern Nepal in December 1980.

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Chloe Martin
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Charming foggy pass separating the plains from the high hills. Great views, cool mountain air, and lively roadside food stalls.

2 months ago
Dipesh Karki
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Terai ko garmi bata escape garna eastern Nepal ko no.1 weekend spot. Dhankuta road ma bike ride garera ghumna pura refreshing hunchha.

2 months ago
Sneha Rai
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Dharan bata 20 minutes ma pugine famous cold hill station! Charles Point view tower, thanda badal ko mist ra fresh local sekuwa.

3 months ago

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