- Details
Detailed itinerary
Itinerary- Tour Includes/Excludes
- Useful Info
- FAQ
Trip overview
Nagarjun, the nearest hill from Kathmandu, is a part of the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. The viewpoint at JamaChowk holds a scenic view of the eastern Himalayan Ranges of Langtang, Jugal, Ganesh, and Gaurishankar peaks. Nagarjun hill also holds religious importance to both Hindus and Buddhists.
You will be picked up by our local guide from your hotel and embark on a 25 min drive to Nagarjun Gate, near Balaju. The hiking begins from here and takes about 2 to 3 hours to end at the Jamacho viewpoint. As the hiking trail passes through the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, you pass by dense forests filled with varieties of exotic species of plants, animals, and birds. The national park is home to 177 species of birds, around nine endangered species, 102 species of butterflies, and 129 species of mushroom.
The Jamacho viewpoint is near Jamacho Monastery, which is open for all visitors. From the position, you can view the bustling Kathmandu valley and the spectacular scenery if the Himalayas. Along the hiking trail, you come across famous caves as well. The first one is the Nagarjun cave, where Acharya Nagarjun meditated. The next one is the cave of the Buffalo Buddha, where a buffalo herdsman (he considered sage Nagarjun to be his master) meditated. Enjoy being in a peaceful state of mind as you hike through the beautiful natural setting.
The Nagarjun hike can be slightly strenuous, but the view you get to witness makes it worth all the difficulty. During the monsoon season, the trail becomes slippery, making it more challenging to hike uphill. Otherwise, the Nagarjun hike is suitable throughout the year. However, the best time would be to hike during September- December, and March- April. Hiking to Nagarjun is the most accessible and most tranquil spot to avoid the city crowd for a day.
Itinerary
Meet your guide at your hotel or the trailhead (depending on whether you have hired a guide)
Take transportation (taxi, private car, or public bus) to the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park entrance gate
Pay the park entry fee and register your details at the checkpoint
Begin the hike to Nagarjun Hill, following the designated trail through the forest
Take breaks as needed and enjoy the views along the way
Reach the summit of Nagarjun Hill and enjoy the panoramic views of Kathmandu valley
Descend back down to the trailhead
Take transportation back to your hotel or other desired location
Included
- Transportation to and from the trailhead
- Park entry fee
- Guide fee (if you choose to hire one)
- Food and water
Excluded
- Accommodation (if you are staying in Kathmandu)
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses (such as souvenirs or additional snacks and drinks)
- Tips for guides and other staff (if you choose to tip)
Useful Info
- Best Season: The best time to hike Nagarjun Hill is during the autumn season (September to November) and the spring season (March to May). During these times, the weather is generally clear, and the temperatures are mild.
- Trail Difficulty: The trail to Nagarjun Hill is considered to be moderately challenging, with some steep uphill sections. It's recommended to have prior hiking experience and a reasonable level of fitness.
- Starting Point: The starting point of the hike is located near the northern edge of Kathmandu, and it can be reached by taxi, private car, or public bus.
- Park Entry Fee: You need to pay an entry fee at the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park entrance gate before starting the hike.
- What to Bring: It's recommended to bring enough water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, a rain jacket (during the monsoon season), and a camera to capture the stunning views.
- Safety: It's essential to stay on the designated hiking trail, follow the park rules and regulations, and be aware of your surroundings. In case of an emergency, there are several emergency helplines in Nepal that can be contacted for assistance.
- Local Guide: If you are not familiar with the area or not confident in hiking alone, it's recommended to hire a local guide who can provide valuable insights and assistance throughout the hike.
FAQs
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How long does it take to hike Nagarjun Hill?
The hike to Nagarjun Hill usually takes around 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and fitness level.
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Is hiking to Nagarjun Hill difficult?
The hiking trail to Nagarjun Hill is considered moderately challenging, with some steep uphill sections. It's recommended to have some prior hiking experience and a reasonable level of fitness.
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Is it safe to hike Nagarjun Hill?
Yes, hiking Nagarjun Hill is generally safe, but it's essential to stay on the designated trail, follow park rules and regulations, and be aware of your surroundings. In case of an emergency, there are several emergency helplines in Nepal that can be contacted for assistance.
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What should I bring for the hike?
It's recommended to bring enough water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, a rain jacket (during the monsoon season), and a camera to capture the stunning views.
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Do I need a guide to hike Nagarjun Hill?
It's not required to have a guide to hike Nagarjun Hill, but if you are not familiar with the area or not confident in hiking alone, it's recommended to hire a local guide who can provide valuable insights and assistance throughout the hike.
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Is there an entry fee for the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park?
Yes, there is an entry fee for the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, which needs to be paid at the entrance gate before starting the hike.
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What is the best time to hike Nagarjun Hill?
The best time to hike Nagarjun Hill is during the autumn season (September to November) and the spring season (March to May).
