Ranikot is a suitable place to see the mountains in front of the eyes at 180 degrees and also to see the beautiful view of the Kathmandu Valley. It is at a distance of 8 km from Arani highway. To reach Ranikot, one has to go from Suryabinayak Chowk to Suryabinayak Temple.
It is the highest point in the middle of the surrounding forest. It is a place of religious and historical significance. Ranikot, which is connected to Bhaktapur and Panauti municipalities, is located at an altitude of 2,000 meters above sea level. From here, one can see the Langtang mountain range including the Kathmandu Valley. The closest mountains to see from here are Dorje Lakpa and Langtang.
Historically, there is a palace in Ranikot. However, it has not been verified. However, according to locals, the archeology department has been saying that there was a detachment of soldiers in Ranikot.
Based on the sayings of the elders here, It was the resting place of the kings and emperors. Although there is no structure at present in Ranikot, remnants of old bricks are found. Due to the lack of protection of some of these old relics, the area is now turning into ruins.
Local experts say, ‘In the past, a lot of bricks of the palace were found here. But, Due to lack of Protection , only a small amount of bricks are found now. ‘ Looking at the Kathmandu Valley from the Durbar area, it looks very picturesque. ‘
It is considered to be suitable for viewing the snow range including Kathmandu Valley. As there is a paved road to Ranikot, the number of domestic tourists has increased. This area is famous for hiking.
Easy Trekking around Kathmandu
Especially Ashapuri hiking goes through Suryabinayak Ranikot, Suryavinayak -Ranikot goes hiking Phulchoki. This hiking route is also a mythical footpath. On this route, especially at the beginning of the new year, the locals of Bhaktapur go to Phulchoki to worship.
Those who cannot reach Phulchowki go to Kusadevi. Similarly, another hiking route from Suryabinayak-Ranikot-Lakuri Bhanjyang to Godavari is in vogue. There is also a Bagh Bhairav in Ranikot. The stone statue looks like a tiger. Hence it is also called Baghbhairav. The fair held in Bagh Bhairav, especially on the full moon day of Baisakh and the full moon day of Mangsir.
Top 5 Viewpoints Near Kathmandu
Bhaktapur is located at a distance of 6 km from Suryavinayak Temple. Ranikot is seven kilometers from Suryabinayak Chowk under Arani Highway. Similarly, it is at a distance of 7 km from Doleshwar temple, which is considered as one of the four dhams of Hindus.
As there is a dense forest around Ranikot, it is also suitable for bird watching. If time and opportunity allow, deer and tiger can also be seen.
It is an area worth visiting in terms of history as well as beauty.
