Things to Do Around Itahari: Your Guide to Eastern Nepal's Best Attractions

Itahari has grown into one of Eastern Nepal's busiest crossroads, sitting where the east-west Mahendra Highway meets the north-south Koshi Highway. But beyond the traffic and trade, the city is also a launch pad for some of the region's best sightseeing — hilltop viewpoints, centuries-old temples, riverside reserves, and local markets are all within an hour or two of the city. Whether you have a spare afternoon or a full weekend, here's where to go.

1. Bhedetar Hill Station

Around 45 minutes north of Itahari, Bhedetar is a cool-climate hill station popular for its panoramic views over the Terai plains on one side and the eastern Himalayan foothills on the other. It's an easy half-day trip, with walking trails, local food stalls, and a small skywalk platform for photographs. On a clear day, the contrast between the flat plains below and the hills rising behind makes it one of the most photographed spots in the region.

2. Dharan — Temples, Parks, and City Life

Just north of Bhedetar, Dharan is Eastern Nepal's cultural hub and well worth a half-day visit on its own. Its main draws include:

• Dantakali Temple — a hilltop shrine regarded locally as a Shakti Peeth, offering sweeping views over Dharan and the plains beyond.
• Buddha Subba and Pindeshwor Temples — significant pilgrimage sites reflecting the city's mixed Hindu and indigenous heritage.
• Panchakanya Temple and Gurkha Memorial Park — the latter honoring Dharan's long history as a British Gurkha recruitment centre.
• Bhanu Chowk and the local bazaar — good for street food and souvenir shopping.

3. Barahachhetra (Baraha Kshetra) Temple

One of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Eastern Nepal, Barahachhetra sits at the sacred confluence of the Koshi and Sapta Koshi rivers. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Varaha (boar) incarnation, the temple draws pilgrims year-round and sees especially large crowds during festivals such as Maghe Sankranti. The riverside setting and temple courtyard make it a meaningful stop for culturally curious travelers as well.

4. Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

For travelers interested in wildlife, Koshi Tappu is Nepal's premier wetland reserve and a designated Ramsar site, known for its population of wild water buffalo (arna) alongside deer, gharial and mugger crocodiles, and over 400 recorded bird species. It's one of the best birdwatching destinations in South Asia, particularly during the winter migratory season. The reserve lies a scenic drive from Itahari and is best explored with a local guide.

5. Itahari Bazaar, Itahari Mall, and Local Markets

Back in the city itself, Itahari's bazaar area and shopping centres offer a more relaxed way to spend an afternoon — local eateries, everyday markets, and a growing retail scene reflect the city's role as a fast-growing commercial hub for Koshi Province.

6. Mechi-Kali Pond (Mechi Kali Pokhari)

A short distance from the municipal office, this scenic pond features the Shish Mahal (glass house) at its centre and is a pleasant spot for a peaceful evening walk, especially if you're staying close to the city centre.

7. Itahari Rangasala (Cricket Stadium)

If your visit lines up with a match, the local stadium hosts football and cricket fixtures and is a good window into the city's sporting culture.

Where to Stay While You Explore

All of these destinations are within comfortable day-trip distance of Ramada by Wyndham Itahari, Eastern Nepal's first upscale international hotel, located on Pashupati Marg in the heart of Itahari-9. After a day of temple visits, hill views, or wildlife spotting, guests return to well-appointed rooms, multiple dining venues, an outdoor pool, and a full-service spa — making it an ideal base for exploring Eastern Nepal in comfort.

Planning your trip? Book your stay at Ramada by Wyndham Itahari and let our team help you plan excursions to any of the destinations above.