Namje Village sits high up at 1585 meters and is home to the Magar people in the Sangurigadhi Rural Municipality, Dhankuta District of Eastern Nepal. The name “Namje” means “eaten sweet potato” in the Magar language. The village is set amidst terraced fields, with 19 out of 30 families running homestay businesses, accommodating up to 80 people each day. The village offers stunning views of the fifth-tallest peak, Mt. Makalu (8463 m), and is surrounded by lush green hills and a charming Magar settlement.
To reach Namje Village, travelers can take a Kathmandu-Biratnagar flight followed by a 57 km journey to Bhedetar Bazar (1420 m), then hike up to the village. Alternatively, a 13-hour bus ride from Kathmandu to Bhedetar is another option. Many people, especially from the Marsh Terai region, visit this beautiful village, with nearby attractions like Dada Bazar and the Narayan temple. Dhoje Dada, at 2133 m, offers breathtaking views of sunrise, sunset, snow-capped mountains, green hills, and river valleys. There’s also a cave and a 400-year-old Banyan tree spread across 13 Ropani lands. Nearby places like Dhankuta Bazar, Raja Rani Lake, and the Namaste waterfall are also worth visiting.
The Magar people of Namje are known for their intelligence, hard work, and hospitality. Visitors can enjoy traditional dances like Hurra and Maruni, performed by locals wearing traditional attire.
Tourists are treated with great respect in the village, often referred to as “God-like” guests. Many travelers also embark on trekking adventures to nearby destinations like Tinjure, Tamor, Kanchenjunga, and Makalu after visiting Namje Village. Dharan, located just 30 minutes away by bus from Bhedetar, is another nearby town worth exploring.
Thumki Dada, situated at 1828 m, boasts the famous Atma Ghar (Memorial to the Ancestors), covering 1 hectare of land and built by 24 architects from different countries in 2011. From here, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas to the north and the border of China, as well as Char Koshe Jhadi to the south, near the border of India. The Memorial to Magar Ancestors, built by students with the help of locals, serves as a tribute and outdoor prayer space for the shamans.
Travelers from Kathmandu can arrange a trip to Biratnagar, followed by an hour’s drive to Bhedetar and a short hike (3.5 km) to reach Namje Village. With its natural beauty, warm hospitality, fresh air, and rural charm, Namje Village offers a unique experience in Nepal.
