Jajarkot (जाजरकोट)
District headquarters: Khalanga
Population
189,000
Area
2,230 km²
Reference elevation
1,200 m
Density
85/km²
Last updated August 26, 2026
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Plan your visit
Start with the essentials below, then use the full guide to build a route that matches your time and interests.
Start here
Khalanga
Khalanga is the administrative headquarters of the district and a useful reference point for planning local travel.
Check the map →Best time
Choose your season carefully
Autumn and spring are preferred for road travel and walking.
Read seasonal guidance →Getting there
Check the route before you leave
Khalanga is linked by road with Surkhet and western Nepal. Remote areas can require local jeeps and hiking. Exact transport schedules, road conditions, domestic flight operations and permit rules should be checked shortly before travel because these can change.
See transport details →Build your day
Discover the district
Start with the featured places, then connect them using the map and nearby attractions sections.
Start exploring →Introduction
Jajarkot (जाजरकोट) Overview
Jajarkot is a hill district in the Bheri River basin of Karnali Province, tragically known as the epicenter of the devastating November 3, 2023 earthquake (magnitude 6.4) that killed over 150 people and damaged thousands of homes. The district is predominantly inhabited by Chhetri, Kami, and Magar communities, with rich Hindu and shamanic traditions. The district headquarters, Khalanga, is an ancient hilltop town that has served as the regional center for centuries, with the historic Khalanga Fort and the Bhagawati Temple. Jajarkot's economy is based on subsistence agriculture, animal husbandry, and remittances from migrant workers. The district faces significant development challenges due to its remote location, limited infrastructure, and high poverty rates. Traditional healing practices, including the famous Jajarkoti shamans, are renowned throughout Nepal. The district's recovery from the 2023 earthquake is a major national priority, with reconstruction efforts focusing on earthquake-resilient infrastructure and sustainable development.
Find your way
Location & Map
Coordinates
28.90220, 82.20140
Open in Google Maps ↗Experiences
Things to Do
Visit the clifftop Jajarkot Durbar palace, hike through pristine alpine meadows resembling Khaptad, see the Tila and Karnali river corridors, explore Rautepani, and eat local millet, maize, mountain beans, and wild honey.
Plan your route
How to Get There
Khalanga is linked by road with Surkhet and western Nepal. Remote areas can require local jeeps and hiking. Exact transport schedules, road conditions, domestic flight operations and permit rules should be checked shortly before travel because these can change.
Choose your season
Best Time to Visit
Autumn and spring are preferred for road travel and walking.
Continue your journey
Nearby Attractions
Western Rukum, Salyan, Surkhet, Dailekh, Jumla (neighboring districts / route ideas)
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More from Karnali
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Jajarkot (जाजरकोट) District?
What is Jajarkot (जाजरकोट) District known for?
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When is the best time to visit Jajarkot (जाजरकोट) District?
Does Jajarkot (जाजरकोट) District have a map?
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