Districts
Koshi Province
Bhojpur भोजपुर
Hand-forged khukuri knives
Bhojpur, in the Koshi hills above the Arun valley, has been a smithing centre for centuries — the heavy Bhojpure khukuri, favoured by Gurkha soldiers and farmers alike, is forged here by Kami craftspeople whose techniques pass through generations. Tyamke Dada, a 3,620-metre ridgeline on the district's edge, carries a Devithan shrine and sweeping views across the eastern Himalaya. The Siddhakali temple crowns the bazaar hill above the headquarters.
About Bhojpur
Bhojpur district sits in the Koshi mid-hills above the Arun valley, a compact world of terraced ridges and forested spurs that once sat on the main trade route from the eastern Terai into the Sherpa highlands. The Siddhakali temple crowns the bazaar hill above the headquarters, while Tyamke Dada — a 3,620-metre ridgeline an hour's hike above the town — rewards the climb with long views over the eastern Himalaya and stands of rhododendron and oak. Silichung Dada, higher still at 4,153 metres, is a more demanding alternative for trekkers.
The district is best known for its forged-metal tradition: Bhojpure khukuri blades, made by Kami craftspeople using techniques passed through generations, are still preferred by Gurkha soldiers and hill farmers. The mixed Rai, Chhetri and Newar population gives it a characteristically eastern-hills cultural weave. It is lightly touristed and the infrastructure is basic — this suits travellers who want to move at Nepal's hill pace rather than on a packaged itinerary; October to April is the comfortable window.
At a glance
- Headquarters
- Bhojpur
- Known for
- Hand-forged khukuri knives
Getting there
The nearest air hub is Tumlingtar Airport in Sankhuwasabha, roughly 90 km from Bhojpur by road (1.5–2 hours by jeep). From Kathmandu, fly to Tumlingtar (about 35 minutes) then transfer by jeep. A direct road from Kathmandu via Khurkot and the BP Highway is possible but long — around 10–12 hours. Local jeeps connect the bazaar and surrounding villages.