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Trishuli Hydropower Station
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energy
The Trishuli Hydropower Station is one of the oldest and most historically significant energy facilities in Nepal. Located in the Nuwakot district on the banks of the Trishuli River, about 70 kilometers northwest of Kathmandu, the plant was constructed with extensive financial and technical assistance from the Indian government. Commissioned in two phases in 1967 and 1970, it has an installed capacity of 24 megawatts. At the time of its completion, it was the largest power plant in the country and laid the foundation for Nepal's national grid. The facility harnesses the power of the Trishuli River, known for its high flow rates, through a series of canals and a forebay tank. Despite its age, the station remains operational following several renovations and continues to supply reliable electricity to the Kathmandu Valley, serving as a symbol of long-standing Nepalese-Indian cooperation in the power sector.
- Location: Nepal
- Top sights: Nuwakot Districts · Majuwa Phat · Clock Tower
- Nearby: Daman (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 7 | 9 | 13 | 17 | 19 | 21 | 20 | 19 | 18 | 15 | 12 | 9 |
| Rain mm | 11 | 19 | 26 | 41 | 97 | 173 | 275 | 226 | 158 | 49 | 4 | 6 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
Situated on the powerful Trishuli River, this historic facility is one of Nepal's pioneering hydropower projects. It has played a truly foundational role in the country's early electrification and continues to robustly support regional energy needs today.
Visiting
For strict safety and operational security reasons, entry into the main powerhouse and the high-voltage electrical substations is typically restricted to authorized staff. However, the exterior structures, the massive dam, and the water intake areas can usually be seen from public paths.
Where to view it
The adjacent road network and nearby traditional suspension bridges crossing the Trishuli River provide excellent, unobstructed vantage points. From here, one can clearly observe the impressive concrete dam structure and the rushing waters being purposefully channeled for power generation.
Local products
The nearby traditional villages and riverside settlements very often feature small tea houses and local stalls where visitors can sample authentic Nepali snacks, regionally grown agricultural produce, and freshly prepared river fish.
Active season
The river's powerful flow and the station's visual impact are undoubtedly most dramatic during and immediately after the intense monsoon season (June to September). The beautiful surrounding valleys are best explored during the clearer, drier months of autumn and spring.
Nearby
The area serves as an absolutely excellent starting point for thrilling white-water rafting adventures on the Trishuli River or for scenic overland drives leading further up into the majestic Langtang National Park and the high Himalayas.
Geography
Facts
- The power plant has a total installed capacity of 24 megawatts.
- The first phase was officially inaugurated in the year 1967.
- It was built with full financial and technical support from India.
- The facility is situated in the Nuwakot district on the Trishuli River.
- The plant consists of seven individual turbine-generator units.
- It underwent major rehabilitation after the 2015 earthquake.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Trishuli Hydropower Station (7)
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Frequently asked questions
What is the Trishuli Hydropower plant?
An important, historical hydroelectric plant.
Can it be visited?
It is not a tourist destination, access is usually restricted.
What is its importance?
It supports the Nepali power grid.
Is it in a beautiful area?
Yes, along a photogenic river.
Are there nearby accommodations?
There are tourist accommodations in the wider region.
Trishuli Hydropower Station: where is it located?
Trishuli Hydropower Station is located in Nepal.
Trishuli Hydropower Station: what is there to see?
Highlights include Nuwakot Districts, Majuwa Phat, Clock Tower.
Trishuli Hydropower Station: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.
Trishuli Hydropower Station: why is it worth visiting?
The Trishuli Hydropower Station is one of the oldest and most historically significant energy facilities in Nepal.
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